Milan in winter – 28 incredible things to do in winter in Milan, Italy

Milan might not be the first destination you think of when traveling in winter, but Milan is a vibrant and beautiful city any time of the year and visiting the fashion capital in winter certainly has some incredible perks.

Winter in Milan is the best time to enjoy the city and museums sans the crowds, indulge in the local cuisine, see Milano twinkle with Christmas lights and attend the Milan Fashion week.

Milan in winter is a delight and if you’re planning a city trip this winter, this is the guide you need. Below I tell you everything you need to know to plan your winter escape to Milan – from where to stay, what to do, and more.

Book your winter Milan essentials:

Milano tram tour
Milan walking tour
The Last Supper guided tour
Duomo di Milano Rooftop
Lake Como Day Trip

Why visit Milan in winter

Milan is a city that offers a wealth of attractions, from world-renowned architecture to rich history and incredible cuisine.

For many, the reason they visit Milano in winter is that they’re attending the world-famous Milan Fashion Week, which happens every year in February or March.

But even if you’re not all that into fashion, visiting Milan in winter is a fantastic idea. December is particularly special when Milan lights up with Christmas decorations and is buzzing with Christmas Markets.

Winter in Milan sees less tourism so you’ll also get to enjoy this beautiful city without the crazy crowds and for a more affordable price. Plus you’ll have the perfect excuse to warm up with coffee and hot chocolate!

Where to stay in Milan in winter

The best area to stay in Milan is in the historic city center or Brera which is also very central. This way you’ll be close to the majority of the attractions and have plenty of restaurant and bar options. Check this article for more info on where to stay in Milan, including the best areas to base yourself and hand-picked hotels and apartments.

While accommodation in these areas tends to be on the pricey side in summer, you can snug a room for a great deal in winter.

28 amazing things to do in Milan in winter

The main attractions like the Duomo, Sforzesco castle and The Last Supper are sights you’ll want to visit any time of year, but in winter you’ll get to enjoy them without the crowds.

But visiting Milan in winter also offers the opportunity for some incredible experiences that are only possible during winter.

Below you’ll find the most incredible things you should add to your Milan itinerary when you visit in winter. It includes popular attractions, some off-the-beaten-path curiosities, and unmissable winter highlights!

Refer to this map of Milan attractions to find the things mentioned below.

Climb up the roof of the Duomo di Milano

The Duomo cathedral in Milan is and architectural masterpiece and one of the most iconic and impressive landmarks in all of Italy. This magnificent Gothic cathedral was built over six centuries, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Milano Cathedral is full of beautiful frescoes, gorgeous stained glass and there is even a crypt underneath the cathedral. But the absolute best part about a visit to the Duomo is climbing to the top of the roof! From the rooftop you’ll get unforgettable views of Milan and the surrounding, including the snow-covered Alps on the horizon.

You can join this tour of the cathedral and the rooftop for a guided experience so you can skip the line. Or combine your visit to the Duomo with a walking tour of the city and a visit to the Last Supper by joining this tour.

See The Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie

The Last Supper is an iconic fresco housed on the walls of the Santa Maria delle Grazie church. It depicts the moment when Jesus Christ reveals that one of his disciples will betray him. This masterpiece of Renaissance art was painted by Leonardo da Vinci in the late 15th century and is one of the most famous and iconic paintings in the world.

Due to the fresco’s fragile condition the daily visits are limited and tickets are very hard to get. While slightly pricier, it is much easier to find a spot on a guided tour but you still need to make sure to book it well in advance.

You’ll get the best value with this walking tour which includes tickets to the Duomo and the Last Supper.

Visit Leonardo’s Vineyard

Near the Santa Maria delle Grazie church you’ll find Leonardo’s Vineyard (La Vigna di Leonardo) at Atellani House which used to be his home while he was working on The Last Supper.

The museum houses an impressive collection of his artworks and gives you insights into the life of one of the most impressive artists of all time. Join this tour to learn more about Leonardo’s life, the story of the Vineyard and the amazing architecture of Atellani House.

Marvel at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele is a beautiful shopping arcade located in the heart of Milan, Italy. Built in the 19th century, it’s one of the oldest and most famous shopping malls in Europe. The arcade is named after Victor Emmanuel II, who was the first king of a unified Italy. Inside you’ll find high-end shops, restaurants, and a stunning mosaic floor created by Giuseppe Verdi.

Pay special attention to the bull of Turin, you’ll notice a hole where his family jewels used to be. That’s because it’s said that spinning around three times with a heel on the testicles of the bull brings good luck.

Although a popular attraction any time of the year, the Galleria is especially enchanting in winter, when it’s wrapped in Christmas decorations.

And if you’re a Leonardo Da Vinci fan make sure to visit the Leonardo3 interactive exhibition which includes a number of reproductions of Leonardo’s famous machines. Make sure to book your tickets in advance.

QC Termemilano

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable winter experience, look no further than QC Termemilano. This amazing thermal spa is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate during the colder months.

The spa is housed in an old art nouveau complex in the centre of town and blessed with stunning architecture and lush gardens. With its many pools, saunas, and steam rooms, QC Termemilano will leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated.

You can grab day tickets for a full day of relaxation or book an evening visit with an apperitivo and snacks.

See a show at La Scala theatre

Since 1778, La Scala theatre hosted some of the world’s most famous operas and performances by Giuseppe Verdi, Arturo Toscanini, and Maria Callas.

La Scala is still one of the most prestigious theaters in the world and continues to attract audiences from all over the world. You can visit the theatre and museum with this guided tour or grab a ticket to a performance for an evening of grandeur.

Do a Food Tour

Milan offers a vibrant food culture and a gourmet food tour is the perfect way to get a taste of all that Milan has to offer. If you love to cook make sure to join this cooking class which includes a market tour.

An absolute must-try is ossobuco, which is special cut of braised veal shank. Risotto milanese is among the most traditional dishes in Milan. Made from rice cooked in beef or veal stock and flavored with saffron, giving it its characteristic bright yellow color.

Ride the tram

Milan is renowned for its iconic trams, ranging from the brand new models to those with vintage charm. And they’re the perfect way to explore the city!

Join this tram tour which includes tickets to The Last Supper, followed by a walking tour of Sforza Castle, stops at the Duomo, Piazza della Repubblica, and La Scala opera House. All while getting you from A to B in style aboard a vintage tram.

If you’re on a budget but still want to explore Milan, why not take one of the old-school trams that run on the regular lines? Line 5 is perfect for visiting Ortica and line 2 winds along the ever so charming Navigli. Or hop onto line 1 where you can enjoy epic views of La Scala.

Enjoy a Milanese aperitivo

Italy is known for its aperitivo culture, a pre-dinner drink served with appetizers. Traditionally, an aperitivo is a low-alcohol fizzy drink, like an Aperol Spritz and is usually served with a small plate of crackers, olives, meats, cheeses, and bread.

But Milan is not traditional and they take the aperitivo to the next level! Think giant cocktails and all you can eat buffets. Trust me, there will be no need for dinner after this and the evening will soon turn into night as everyone at the bar gets a little bit tipsier and a lot happier. Head to Naviglio Pavese for the ultimate experience.

You can also join this aperitivo and street food tour or combine sightseeing with an aperitivo on this fun sunset bike tour.

Labirinto di Pomodoro

Arnaldo Pomodoro is an Italian sculptor and goldsmith, and is considered one of the greatest contemporary Italian sculptors. Over sixteen years, from 1995 to 2011, he built the Labyrinth.

The Labirinto di Pomodoro is an environmental installation that spans over 170 square meters and takes you through Pomodoro’s mind and through time. The installation is a synthesis and reflection of his career as an artist.

You can grab tickets here and explore the exposition on your own or join this guided tour for more insight into the meaning of the artworks.

Mudec Museum in Milan

The Museo delle Culture (MUDEC) is a center dedicated to the interdisciplinary research on the world cultures. This ethnographic museum displays an awe-inspiring collection comprising of more than 7000 fascinating objects from all across the world, from the Far East, Africa and pre-Columbian Americas

From exquisite art pieces to everyday items like fabrics and music instruments – this truly unique gathering features artifacts ranging in age from antiquity up until the 19th century. A must see for anyone looking to explore global cultures past and present!

Visit the Castello Sforzesco

The Castello Sforzesco has a long and varied history. It served as a military fortress, a palace, and even a prison at various points over the years. Today, it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Milan, thanks to its impressive architecture and fascinating history. If you’re visiting Milan, be sure not to miss this iconic landmark. You can visit the exhibitions hosted in the castle or walk the outdoor grounds for free.

Stroll through Parco Sempione

This Sempione park is located in the heart of Milan and is home to a variety of attractions, including the Castello Sforzesco and the Arco della Pace. From the castle, wander through the gardens gardens towards the Arco della Pace to take in some fresh air on a cold winter day.

See the Arco della Pace

The Arco della pace (arch of peace) sits at the edge of Parco Sempione, on the opposite side of the Castello Sforzesco.

It was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte to commemorate the French victory over the Austrian army at the Battle of Marengo. Designed by Luigi Cagnola, it was built between 1807 and 1808 from white marble and is quite a sight!

Go on a day trip

Milan is a fantastic city and has so much to offer, but even more adventure await you outside of town. Milan is relly close to the alps and some of Italys most beautiful cities so make sure to take this opportunity to explore the surrounding area as well.

Some of my favourite day trips from Milan are:

• The picturesque Lake Como and Bellagio
• Scenic ride on the Bernina Express to the Alps
• A day trip to the romantic Venice (but even better if you can spend the night and explore deeper. Make sure to follow this itinerary.)

Read next:
Venice itinerary: Best things to do in Venice in 1, 2, 3 and 5 days
Venice in winter: Best things to do in Venice in winter

Visit the Brera Art Gallery

Founded in 1776, the Brera Art Gallery (Pinacoteca di Brera) is home to an impressive collection of artworks from some of the world’s most famous artists, including masterworks by Raphael, Tintoretto, Rembrandt, Titian, Rubens, and others from the 13th to the 20th century.

Grab your tickets in advance to avoid any lines.

The gallery is housed in a beautiful building that was designed by architects Francesco Maria Ricchini and Giuseppe Piermarini.

See the Christmas lights

During the holiday season every street in Milan is dressed up with twinkling lights and cheerful decorations, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the city.

A great place to see the decorations is at Piazza del Duomo which hosts the most popular Christmas market in Milan. Every night, the lights are switched on to illuminate the piazza, leading to some truly magical moments.

Another beautiful area to see the lights is Navigli Pavese where the decorations span across the canal and you can see the lights reflected in the water.

Visit the Milan Christmas Markets

The most popular Christmas Market in Milan is the Mercatino di Natale in the Piazza del Duomo. Here you’ll find over 60 huts and stalls selling a variety of Christmas gifts, decorations, and crafts, as well as food and drinks.

Over the Christmas period, Navigli also bursts into festive life with decorations, lights, and plenty of Christmas market stalls.

The Fiera degli Obei Obei (also known as Oh Bej Oh Bej) takes place in front of Castello Sforzesco. It starts on Sant’Ambrogio Day (7th of December) and runs for 3 days. This is one of the biggest markets in Milan and perfect if you’re not in Milan for actual Christmas, but still want to experience some of the seasonal.

Visit the Natural History Museum of Milan

The Natural History Museum of Milan is home to a vast collection of specimens from all branches of natural history, including archaeology, anthropology, geology, and palaeontology.

The museum’s collection includes items from across the natural world, including mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, fish, insects, and plants. One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of fossils, which includes remains from dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures.

Hit the slopes

Just a couple of hours from the city you can take in the alpine air and hit the slopes. There are many ski fields that are easily accessible from Milan, among the favorites are Piani di Bobbio, Domobianca, Montecampione, Piazzatorre and San Domenico. If you don’t mind a slightly longer drive then Courmayeur if a fabulous options too.

Rent a car, hop on a rain and organize the trip on your own, or join this trip to the Alps for peace of mind.

Fernet Branca Distillery

Branca Distillery, founded in 1845 by the Branca brothers, is located in the heart of Milan. This is where a variety of spirits including Fernet Branca, Sambuca Oro, and Grappa Candolini are produced.

Join a guided tour of the distillery which will that take you through the history history of the company and show you how their spirits are made. The tour also includes a tasting where you can sample some of the spirits.

Dress up for the Ambrosian Carnival

Ever heard of the Milan Carnival? Following the Ambrosian rite, it is celebrated on the day before the beginning of Lent. This is about one week after Carnival in Venice which follows the Roman rite.

On Saturday afternoon a parade crosses the city streets and heads to Piazza del Duomo where the main event is held. This is a day of incredible fun with people dressed up in costumes and tons of performances to keep you entertained.

From concerts and music to street dances; this celebration truly brings people together for a fantastic show!

Cimitero Monumentale

The Cimitero Monumentale in Milan, Italy is one of the largest and most famous cemeteries in Europe. It was founded in 1866 and contains the graves of many notable people, but the reason for visiting is not so much who is buried here but how.

While a visit to a cemetery might appear somewhat grim at first, the Cimitero Monumentale can actually be considered an open air museum where most tombs are full on works of art, monuments if you will. Here you’ll find a large collection of Italian sculptures, Greek temples and obelisks.

Join this guided tour to see the most impressive monuments and learn more about the art and the notable people burried here.

Binario 21- Shoah Memorial

Binario 21- Shoah Memorial commemorates the victims of the Holocaust. The museum is housed inside Milan’s Central Station and is made up of two main sections: the Memorial and the Memory Lab.

The exhibition includes videos of accounts from survivors, the original livestock wagon that was used for deportation and the Wall of Names commemorating those who were deported from Milan Central Station.

Marvel at Piazza Gae Aulenti & Bosco Verticale

Symbol of contemporary Milan, Piazza Gae Aulenti is a raised circular square designed by Argentine architect Cesar Pelli.

This area is home to some of Milan’s most prominent modern architecture and from the square you can see the Garibaldi Towers, Bosco Verticale, the Galfa Tower, the Municipal Technical Services Tower, the Pirelli skyscraper, the Solaria, Solea, Aria residential towers and a portion of the Diamante Tower.

My favourite is Bosco Verticale, a metropolitan forestation project that helps regenerate the environment and increases biodiversity in urban areas, all without taking up precious land. These two residential towers were designed by Boeri architects and together they form an area of 10,000 m² (107,639 sq ft) of greenery.

Shop til you drop

Known as the capital of fashion, Milan is the perfect place to do some shopping and in winter you can take advantage of the seasonal sales! If you need some help picking the right outfits you can even book a personal shopper!

The main areas for shopping are Corso Buenos Aires which is home to over 350 shops, Via Torino, and Via Monte Napoleone which is an upscale shopping area with high-end brands and shops. To snug some designer clothes at a fraction of the price make sure to check out Serravalle outlet.

Attend Milan Fashion Week

Milan Fashion Week is one of the biggest fashion events in the world, attracting top designers and models from all over.

If you’re lucky enough to be in Milan during Fashion Week, you’ll be able to see all the latest designs and trends firsthand. Even if you don’t attend the fashion shows, you can expect the streets to turn into a runway as the attendees explore the city.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Piazza Duomo

There’s no better way to celebrate New Year’s than by spending it in one of Italy’s most beautiful cities. On New Year’s Eve, the piazza comes alive with music, food, and fireworks. There are also a variety of events and activities that take place throughout the evening, so be sure to check out the schedule before you go.

Winter holidays and events in Milan

There are many events and celebrations all throughout winter in Milan and they can provide a truly unique experience.

These events can also impact the opening hours of shops, attractions, bars, and restaurants. Availability of accommodation and tours, as well as prices, might also be affected.

Below is a list of the most prominent dates you should be paying attention to when planning your winter trip to Milan.

8th of December
St. Ambrose (Festa di Sant Ambrosio)
ST Ambrose is the patron of Milano and this is when the holiday season starts in Milan. Shop, restaurant and tour operating hours might be affected.

8th of December
The Immaculate Conception (Festa della Concezione Immacolata)
Most museums, shops and attractions remain open.

24th of December
Christmas Eve (La Vigilia di Natale)
Expect shops and attractions to close earlier on this day. Dinner reservations are essential.

25th of December Christmas Day (Natale)
Expect shops, restaurants and tours to function in a limited fashion. Christmas lunch reservations are essential.

26th of December
St. Stephen’s Day (Il Giorno di Santo Stefano)
Shop, restaurant and tour operating hours might be affected.

31st December
New Year’s Eve (La Vigilia di Capodanno)
Expect shops and attractions to close earlier on this day. Dinner reservations are essential. Celebrate in Piazza Duomo.

1st of January
New Year’s Day (Capodanno)
Shop, restaurant, and tour operating hours might be affected.

6th of January
The Epiphany (La Befana)
Shop, restaurant and tour operating hours might be affected.

14th of February
Valentine’s Day (San Valentino)
Opening times are not affected. Dinner reservations are recommended.

School holidaysExact dates vary, expect a higher influx of visitors. Italian kids have their school break between Christmas and the Epiphany (exact dates vary each year). Other European countries will also have school holiday breaks during this time.

Ambrosian CarnivalExact dates vary, expect people to be dressed up and loads of events in the streets.

Milan winter temperature & weather

Winter in Milan officially starts on the 21st of December and lasts till late March but often, November feels quite wintery too while March can often feel like spring.

The climate in Milan is continental with cold and dump winters and the sky is often overcast. But winter actually gets less rain than spring or autumn!

January is the coldest month of the year with average temperatures of 3.5 °C (38 °F).

Does it snow in Milan?

Milan gets snow on most winters. It is usually limited to one or two snowfalls per year of only a few centimeters and it generally melts away quickly.

What to pack for winter in Milan

Winter in Milan is coldest in December and January, but February and March can get some really pleasant and sunny days so what you need to pack will vary on the month.

Make sure to pack some good quality waterproof boots, warm socks, a (preferably long) winter coat, a compact umbrella, gloves, scarf and hat, warm layers, but also sunglasses and sunscreen as the winter sun can be especially sneaky.

Shop these Winter essentials:

HUNTER Tall Boots

Columbia Long Down Jacket

Merino Socks

Columbia Winter Jacket

Wool Blend Wrap Coat

Windproof Travel Umbrella

USB Hand Warmer

Chelsea Boots

Hat Scarf & Gloves Set

How many days in Milano in winter?

Two days are the perfect amount of time to see Milan and its main attractions.

Keep in mind that in winter it gets dark really early so plan accordingly. You can optimize your time In Milan by visiting museums and other indoor attractions after dark.

Getting to Milano

The best way to get to Milan is by flying into the Milan Malpensa Airport. There are a number of transportation options available to get from the airport into town, including buses, taxis, and trains.

The Malpensa Express trains run between the airport and downtown Milan every 30 minutes, with a journey time of around 40 minutes. Alternativelly, there are also shuttle buses that run between the airport and offer stops in Milan, but they generally take longer than the Express train.

Another great way of traveling to Milan is by train. he central trainstation has great connections to all major cities in Italy as well as Swizzerland and France.

Getting around Milan

Public transportation in Milan is excellent and includes buses, trams, a metro and trains. There are also a number of taxi companies and Uber drivers.

Taking a tram is not just good for getting from A to be but it’s also a great way to explore the city. There are numerous tram routes that operate throughout the city, and provide a convenient, efficient, and affordable way to get around town, with a view.

Another great option for getting around Milan is using the Metro, which is fast and serves nearly all areas of the city.

Where to eat and drink in Milan

Milan is home to some incredible restaurants and bars, too many to list here so I’ll limit myself to a few of the most unique hospitality experiences Milan has to offer:

RoofTop della Rinascente | Dine eye-to-eye with the Spiers on the Duomo cathedral and enjoy sweeping views over Piazza Duomo. While it might sound super fancy this is actually a food court and your dinner can be as cheap as a pizza margarita from one of the chains.

Paolo Sarpi street food | Paolo Sarpi is one of the most popular street food streets and is part of China Town in Milan. It offers a wide selection of delicious dishes from various restaurants and vendors and ranges from traditional Chinese to traditional Italian with some tasty fusion options as well.

Naviglio Pavese | The liveliest area to enjoy an aperitivo an all you can eat buffet. Already discussed above.

Bagni Misteriosi | Experience an unforgettable evening of sipping on aperitifs in their idyllic 1920’s pools. While too cold for a bath in winter, they do open the pools for night swimming in summer.

Nottingham Forest | This tiny bar serves cocktails inside syringes, mini bathtubs, toothpaste tubes and so on and so forth. If you’re a cocktail aficionado, this is not a bar you’ll want to miss.

Planning a trip to Italy?

Italy is such a stunning country that packs beautiful nature, astonishing architecture, rich history, interesting culture, loads of hand gestures, and delicious food. Oh, don’t even get me started on Italian food!

I’ve prepared a whole plethora of articles to help you plan your Italian adventure and if you’re planning a trip to Milan or a winter trip to Italy make sure to check out the relevant resources below: