In this post, I will discuss the best itinerary for 2 days in Milan on a budget. Despite time constraints, I will provide tips to help you experience the unique atmosphere of this city and its main attractions while keeping an eye on your wallet. Milan combines historical charm with a forward-looking, modern vibe.
A two-day trip to Milan will treat your eyes to its beauty. You can start with the modern Gae Aulenti Square, featuring the amazing Bosco Verticale, and then visit the medieval Milan Cathedral. Don’t forget to include Leonardo’s Last Supper and enjoy an apericena along the Navigli.
During my first visit to Milan, I was pleasantly surprised by its contemporary, youthful, and eco-friendly ambiance. As the biggest city in northern Italy, it offers numerous opportunities for young job seekers to grow.
So, grab your backpack, put on a pair of comfortable shoes, and let’s embark on a 2-day tour of Milan, one of the most unique cities in northern Italy.
How to spend 2 days in Milan on a budget
Day 1: Itinerary
Piazza Gae Aulenti
This recently developed area showcases Milan’s future-oriented side, where business coexists with environmental sustainability. The circular square, named after a renowned architect, was constructed in 2012 to revitalize several neighborhoods adjacent to the historic center.
Beneath the square, you’ll find stores, a parking lot, and a subway line passing through. Skyscrapers, including the tallest building in Italy, the Unicredit building, surround the square. In the evening, the square comes alive with vibrant lights and offers a perfect setting for a leisurely walk and relaxation.
In this area, you will find some of the trendiest restaurants in Milan. Although fusion-ethnic food is very much in vogue, don’t miss the chance to taste local food.
For instance, stop for lunch or dinner at Bistro Biosserì Porta Nuova, a venue decorated with recycled and eco-friendly materials. Here you can taste risotto with ossobuco, one of Milan’s typical dishes, made only with organic ingredients.
Piazza Gae Aulenti is one of the most underrated landmarks in northern Italy.
Library of Trees (public park)
Located next to Gae Aulenti Square, the Library of Trees is a vast green space and city park. It boasts the largest pedestrian area in the city, covering 10 hectares of land. Here, you’ll find gardens with a variety of colors, 450 trees, thousands of plant species, and a bike path.
If you’re visiting Milan with kids, make sure to explore this beautiful park, which also features a playground and a dog area.
Bosco Verticale
As you walk past the Biblioteca degli Alberi park, you’ll notice two striking buildings known as the Bosco Verticale or Vertical Forest. This architectural marvel, designed by renowned architect Antonio Boeri, has become one of Italy’s most famous natural landmarks. The Vertical Forest consists of two residential towers, reaching heights of 80 and 112 meters respectively. These towers serve as innovative examples of integrating biodiversity within an urban landscape. The highlight of this masterpiece lies in its harmonious coexistence between humans and various living species. The Bosco Verticale’s expansive balconies generously accommodate trees across three floors of each building. With a total area of 30,000 square meters, the natural environment envelops 3,000 square meters of the urban landscape.
Arco della Pace
Now, move to the heart of Milan’s historic center. Arco della Pace is a neoclassical structure dating back to the first half of the 19th century. Due to various circumstances, its construction took thirty years, finally being inaugurated in 1838 by the then Emperor of Austria.
Arco della Pace marks the entrance to Parco Sempione.
Parco Sempione
Parco Sempione is also known as Parco del Castello because it is located behind the fortress Castello Sforzesco.
This park connects Arco della Pace with Castello Sforzesco. Here, you can immerse yourself in a splendid green area, stroll among historic and ancient trees, be amazed by the 109-meter-tall Torre Branca.
Cross the picturesque Ponte delle Sirenette bridge, and admire the statue of Napoleon III.
Children can enjoy some games, while adults can relax on benches, take walks, or engage in sports.
Sforzesco Castle
At the end of Parco Sempione, you will find the magnificent Castello Sforzesco, a unique structure erected right in the city center instead of on a hill. It is one of the largest castles in Europe and currently hosts various events, museums, and exhibitions.
The entrance to the outer area is free, but for a small fee of 5 euros, you can purchase a ticket to visit some of the interior rooms.
Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie and the Last Supper
Santa Maria delle Grazie Church is within walking distance from Castello Sforzesco. You can either reach it by taking the metro (Red Line M1) to Cadorna and walking a few minutes towards Corso Magenta.
This UNESCO World Heritage site allows free admission for a visit (6 euros for a ticket) or a guided tour for 15 euros, lasting approximately 90 minutes. When you visit, don’t miss the room housing the painting “The Last Supper” by the great Leonardo da Vinci, which is located across the street.
To manage the flow of visitors, entry is staggered in groups of no more than 25 people at a time, with a duration of approximately 15 minutes.
The entrance ticket costs 15 euros. I recommend booking your ticket online several weeks in advance to secure your visit.
You can book tickets to see "The Last Supper" here.
Chiesa di San Maurizio Maggiore
Known as the “Sistine Chapel of Lombardy,” this basilica is not extensively advertised, but once you enter, you will be astonished by its immense splendor. It stands not far from the entrance of Castello Sforzesco, in Via Bernardino Luini, near Palazzo Litta.
Day 2 – what to do in Milan for 2 days
The second day in Milan includes Piazza Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Teatro La Scala, and then moving to the Navigli area.
Duomo and Piazza Duomo
You are in the bustling heart of Milan, with the Duomo and Palazzo Reale on prominent display. A visit to the cathedral is a must, and you could also purchase a 15 euro ticket to ascend to the terraces, enjoy breathtaking views from the renowned spires, and explore the interior museums.
With its Gothic style, the church stands majestically, constructed with Candoglia pink marble (from Piedmont).
Vittorio Emanuele Gallery
Adjacent to Piazza Duomo, you’ll find the entrance to the Galleria, another intriguing attraction that represents a “VIP” area of the city, featuring luxury shops and restaurants.
Even if you will not buy anything here, because you are spending 2 days in Milan on a budget, look around and do some window shopping.
I will recommend affordable restaurants in Milan later in the article.
Teatro La Scala
Exiting the Galleria, you will be in the vicinity of La Scala, the famous Milanese theater. You can enter for a visit to some halls and the museum (approximately 15 euros for a ticket). It is certainly worth it for theater enthusiasts.
Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga
These are the city’s two most luxurious streets, and strolling through them is delightful. You can reach them by metro (Red Line) a few minutes from the Duomo or on foot.
Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio
This historic basilica is located further west, not far from the previously recommended Chiesa San Maurizio.
Church of San Lorenzo with the colonnade
In the same area, you will find the colonnade leading to Chiesa di San Lorenzo, one of the city’s oldest churches. It has changed its appearance several times over the centuries.
You can reach it by taking the Red Line M1 to Missori or Cordusio, allowing you to visit both Sant’Ambrogio and San Lorenzo.
By now, it will be late afternoon, and a pleasant trip to the Navigli district (perhaps featuring an aperitivo to further reduce costs) is a great idea.
The Navigli of Milan are two canals that bring water into the city from the lakes of Lombardy. They also served as transportation routes.
The marble used in the construction of Milan Cathedral was transported along these canals. Along the canal banks, you’ll find trendy bars, vintage shops, workshops, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants.
In short, this is where the locals spend their evenings. The most typical thing to do in the Navigli area is to have an “apericena,” which is a reinforced aperitivo.
This means that for a fixed price, you can enjoy a drink and delicious tastings that will satisfy your hunger. It’s an excellent way to save on dinner costs in Milan.
Among the many establishments in the area, I recommend Manhattan on Via Ripa Porta Ticinese. It is a pub that offers options for vegetarians and vegans, providing optimal value for money. For a good apericena, 13-15 euros is sufficient.
The Navigli area is accessible via the metro Green Line M2.
Shopping in Milan
Even if you’re in Milan on a tight budget, you might have set aside some money for shopping. Milan is one of Italy’s top cities for clothing and designer shopping. Take a stroll along Corso Buenos Aires, which boasts hundreds of storefronts and stores.
The street is located near the Indro Montanelli Gardens, bordering the Bastioni di Porta Venezia.
You can reach it by streetcar or by taking the M1 Red Line and getting off at Corso Buenos Aires or Porta Venezia. This way, you can explore the entire shopping street and then head back in the opposite direction.
Getting to Milan from the Airport
To save money, it’s best to avoid taking a taxi. Milan features two airports located outside the city: Malpensa, situated west of Milan towards Varese, and Linate, located east of the city.
From Linate, you can reach the city center by taking Metro Line 4 (blue M4) or using the bus service.
From Malpensa, there’s the Malpensa Express train that connects the terminal with Milano Bovisa and Milano Centrale train stations.
From there, you can reach the heart of the Lombard capital by subway.
The train journey from Malpensa to Milan takes approximately 25-30 minutes, while traveling from Linate to the city center by subway is a bit quicker.
Where to Eat in Milan on a Budget
A recurring question friends ask me is where to eat in Milan without breaking the bank. While some places in the city have high prices due to expensive tourist menus or their central location, you can still find affordable options.
The secret is moving just 3-4 subway stations away or choosing alternative eateries. Here are some ideas:
Best Budget Restaurants in Milan
Taberna San Tomaso
When it comes to eating well without spending a fortune, Taberna San Tomaso is a great compromise. Located on the street of the same name, between Piazza Duomo and Castello Sforzesco, it’s a side street of the renowned Via Dante.
You can enjoy a typical first course, like risotto with sausage, for no more than 10 euros, while second courses, including the famous Milanese cutlet, don’t exceed 14 euros. The portions are generous, so you might only need one course. The restaurant is an 8-10 minute walk from the Duomo or Castello metro stations (M1 red or M3 yellow).
Trattoria San Filippo Neri
Heading towards the suburbs, in the Bicocca area, you’ll find Trattoria San Filippo Neri on Viale Monza (M1 Rossa subway line Precotto stop).
Here, you can savor typical Milanese cuisine such as risotto alla milanese, quality meat dishes, Milanese steak, and cotechino with lentils (seasonal).
During weekdays at midday, they offer a set menu from the first course to dessert, with prices that rarely exceed 18-20 euros, including drinks and coffee. There are also other combinations available for 12-15 euros.
Trattoria Sabbioneda
Corso Buenos Aires is a significant street in Milan, known for its numerous stores that attract shoppers. Close to the Lima stop on the M1 red subway (between Porta Venezia and Loreto), you’ll find Trattoria Sabbioneda on Via Alessandro Tadino.
This cozy place allows you to enjoy traditional Milanese home cooking at competitive prices. The first courses are excellent and cost under 10 euros, while the tasty main courses, mostly meat dishes like the roast mix, range from 8 to 13 euros.
Again, the portions are generous, so one plate might be sufficient, perhaps followed by a dessert.
Best Cheap Pizzerias in Milan
Pizzeria Luna Rossa
Looking for an excellent pizzeria in downtown Milan where you can eat affordably? Pizzeria Luna Rossa on Via Broletto is the answer. Prices of pizzas and calzoni are cheap compared to the average price of pizza in Italy.
You can reach it from the Cordusio stop on the red M1 line or by streetcar. With a vast menu and a wide choice of food dishes and pizzas, it’s the perfect place to enjoy good food while keeping your expenses in check. Come here for lunch between visits to the Duomo, the Castello, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, or Piazza della Scala. You can explore the area on foot.
Pizzeria San Mina
Just behind the central station, on Via Edolo (a side street of Viale Lunigiana), you’ll find Pizzeria San Mina, regarded by many as one of the absolute best in the city.
It not only offers excellent quality and price ratio but also includes typical first and second courses, not to mention its fish dishes.
For the more romantic, there’s even the option of heart-shaped pizza. This place is convenient before taking the train or upon arriving in town.
If you happen to be nearby (the parallel street is the famous Via Gluck, sung by Italian singer-songwriter Adriano Celentano), it’s worth a visit.
Street Food and Aperitivo in Milan
Milan is a vibrant city, and street food and brunch are popular choices among both Milanese locals and tourists.
A must-visit “institution” is Panzerotti Luini, located on Via Redegonda, just a stone’s throw from the Duomo (Galleria side).
Be prepared for a queue, as the legendary panzerotti attracts many passionate foodies. When you finally get your hands on one, allow it to cool for a couple of minutes before taking a bite to avoid burning yourself with the tomato, cheese, and ham filling. Luini’s panzerotti is best enjoyed while walking.
Another place worth mentioning is Priscio, located behind the Duomo near Via Larga, not far from Piazza Fontana. Apart from their panzerotti, they also offer delicious pizza. The reasonable prices allow you to indulge in a variety of specialties, providing a quick but pleasant lunch break.
For a special experience, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or aperitifs, Foresta Woodbar on Via Celestino, at the corner of Via San Vito, is an ideal choice.
This restaurant offers food that reflects a strong connection to nature, as its name suggests.
Best day trips from Milan
There are several fantastic day-trip options from Milan that allow you to explore the surrounding regions.
Lake Como
Just a short train ride from Milan, Lake Como is a stunning destination known for its picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and luxurious villas. Take a boat tour, visit the beautiful town of Bellagio, or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere of the lake.
Venice
Although it’s a bit farther from Milan, Venice is well worth a day trip. Known for its canals, romantic ambiance, and impressive architecture, this unique city offers gondola rides, visits to St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace, and the chance to get lost in its narrow streets.
Bergamo
Located just outside Milan, Bergamo is a hidden gem with a beautiful medieval old town. Explore the upper town (Città Alta) with its historic buildings, fortifications, and panoramic views, or wander through the lower town (Città Bassa) and enjoy its shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Padua
Padova is a historic city in the Veneto region of Italy, known for its rich cultural heritage. Highlights of a day trip to Padua include the famous Scrovegni Chapel with its breathtaking frescoes by Giotto, the Basilica di Sant’Antonio, a significant pilgrimage site, the impressive Palazzo della Ragione, and the beautiful Orto Botanico di Padova, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world.
With its proximity to Milan, Padua offers a delightful blend of history, art, and charming cityscapes for a rewarding day trip experience.
Verona
Famous as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona is a charming city with a rich history. Visit Juliet’s balcony, explore the Roman Arena, stroll through the picturesque streets, and immerse yourself in the romantic atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Turin
Another wonderful day-trip option from Milan is Turin, a city known for its elegant architecture, historic cafes, and museums. Discover the Royal Palace, visit the Egyptian Museum, indulge in some delicious chocolate, or take a stroll along the beautiful river Po.
Each of these day trips offers its own unique charm and attractions, allowing you to experience different aspects of northern Italy while based in Milan.
Conclusion
Visiting Milan on the cheap is no easy feat. With a little strategic planning you can do it. One way to save money is to sleep outside the city, in the suburbs or in nearby towns.
I recommend this because Milan boasts very efficient public transportation services that will get you to the center in minutes.
Another way to save money is to go to affordable restaurants like the ones I have listed and try street food and apericena.
Another key trick is not to be seduced by Milanese shopping, which is sure to tempt you with designer stores, clothing, and shoes.
FAQs 2 days in Milan on a budget
What is Milan famous for?
Milan is renowned for its magnificent Gothic-style Duomo, built with pink marble. Other notable attractions include the Castello Sforzesco, the prestigious La Scala Theater, the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, and Via Montenapoleone known for its high-end boutiques and fashion shows.
The city is also celebrated for its culinary delights, such as risotto alla Milanese, cotoletta, and panettone.
Additionally, Milan is home to the San Siro soccer stadium, where Inter and Milan play their matches. Soccer is the favorite sport of Italians, and Milan’s two teams are very popular.
Art enthusiasts can appreciate Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie, the church of Sant’Ambrogio dedicated to the city’s patron saint, and various abbeys in the surrounding area.
One unique feature that contributes to Milan’s fame is the Navigli district, historically known for trade and water transportation, located in the southern part of the city.
Is Milan worth visiting?
Milan is a beautiful city, rich in history and tradition. It differs from many other Italian cities, being less romantic and characteristic, but larger and more vibrant as the second largest Italian city after Rome.
While historical and artistic cues are easily found by walking in other cities, Milan requires more careful exploration. This is part of the charm of strolling through the city, alternating between shopping streets and historic lanes leading to basilicas or canals. Milan is worth visiting for its monuments, contrasts, traditions, customs, and the glimpse of the future typical of this metropolis.
Milan expertly preserves historical landmarks while integrating them with futuristic and modern elements.
The city has excellent public transportation, allowing you to reach suburban settings that feel light years away from the chaos within just 20 minutes.
Simultaneously, it takes around 10 minutes to encounter unique artistic works, fresco-rich churches, or remnants of ancient history.
What is the best time of year to visit Milan?
If you were to ask the locals about the best time to visit the city, the unequivocal answer would be August.
During this month, the city empties out, making it easier to get around without traffic or queues at museums. However, some stores may be closed, limiting shopping opportunities, and public transport services might be reduced.
Each month, however, has its own charm. Spring and fall are ideal times to visit palaces and monuments due to the many events that characterize the city during these seasons. December is a good time to visit as well, with the opportunity to admire Christmas trees and lights on the main streets, buy traditional panettone pastries, and experience the joyous events of the patron saint Sant’Ambrogio.
How much money do I need for two days in Milan?
If you aim to explore Milan on a budget, you can minimize expenses by focusing on art. Many monuments do not require any fees or have minimal charges.
For example, you can visit the Navigli, the Arco della Pace, Sempione Park, the entrance courtyards of Castello Sforzesco, and several basilicas and churches without paying admission fees.
If you choose to visit the Duomo and climb to the rooftop (without a guide or organized tour) and explore the La Scala Theater museum, the expenses should not exceed 30 euros (45 euros if you include a free tour of Castello Sforzesco and museums).
Adding transportation (a day ticket), lunch, and dinner (such as a panzerotto for dinner and a set menu for lunch), you can keep the expenses under 100-120 euros, excluding the cost of accommodation.
However, if you opt for at least three guided tours, such as those for the Duomo and Leonardo’s Last Supper, the costs increase significantly and may reach up to 300 euros (excluding accommodation).
What are the best areas to stay in Milan?
Visiting Milan on a budget is possible, and the success of your trip depends largely on your choice of accommodation.
There are interesting B&Bs and hotels that offer a good quality-price compromise. Staying in the city center is not always worthwhile, as moving to the outskirts of Milan can save you up to 100 euros per night.
The heart of the city can be easily reached by public transport. Therefore, the best areas to consider are the western outskirts (excluding times of fairs or events in the city), the southern areas like Lorenteggio or San Donato Milanese, or even the northern area near Bollate.
It is advisable to avoid the Fiera area during exhibitions and the airport area as prices tend to increase there.
What is the best way to get around Milan?
Undoubtedly, public transportation in Milan is efficient. Take advantage of the subway lines, which amount to 5 and are distinguished by numbers and colors.
You can purchase a 3-day ticket for 13 euros, allowing for unlimited rides, or a daily ticket for just under 8 euros.
The subway enables quick movement across the city, with travel times between different parts taking a maximum of 30 minutes.
The subway stops are conveniently located near key attractions recommended for a 2-day itinerary in Milan, and trains run approximately every 4 minutes, albeit less frequently in the evening.
