Milan operates on its own frequency. It is faster, more polished, and less tourist-accommodating than Rome or Florence, which means the right knowledge transforms your trip. This guide covers essential practical tips and frequently asked questions so you arrive prepared. For the big picture, start with the complete Milan travel guide.
Getting to Milan: Airports and Trains
- Malpensa (MXP): Main hub, 50 km northwest. Malpensa Express train to Centrale or Cadorna in 50 minutes (€13). Taxis fixed at €104. For nearby hotels, the where to stay guide covers the Centrale area.
- Linate (LIN): Closest, 7 km east. M4 metro to San Babila (near Duomo) in 25 minutes (€2.20). Fly into Linate if you have a choice.
- Bergamo (BGY): Ryanair base, 45 km northeast. Shuttle buses to Centrale in 60 minutes (€5 to 10).
- By train: Centrale connects to Turin (1h), Venice (2.5h), Florence (1.5h), Rome (3h), Paris (7h). Always validate regional tickets before boarding.
Getting Around Milan
- Metro, trams, buses: 5 metro lines (M1 to M5), 18 tram lines. Single ticket €2.20 (90 min), 24-hour pass €7.60, 3-day pass €13. Tap contactless cards at metro turnstiles. Vintage Tram 1 is an attraction. Always validate on trams and buses; fines €35 to 55. For walkable neighborhood routes, see the things to do guide.
- Taxis: No UberX, only Black and Lux. Use FreeNow or itTaxi apps. Cannot hail on street. Cards accepted. Fixed fares: Malpensa €104, Linate ~€25.
Money, Tipping and Payments
Euro (€). Milan is card-friendly; Visa and Mastercard accepted everywhere except some stalls. Carry €50 to 100 cash. Tipping: service usually included (servizio incluso) or covered by coperto (€2 to 4). Round up or leave €1 to 2 per person. Never tip 20%. For restaurant customs, the eating guide covers dining etiquette. Use bank ATMs (Bancomat), always choose euros when prompted.
Dress Code and Presentation
Milan is a fashion capital; Italians notice shoes first. Clean sneakers or leather shoes, well-fitting clothes. Dress up for evening. Churches require covered shoulders and knees. For seasonal packing, the weather by month guide has detailed advice.
Safety and Common Scams
Milan is generally safe. Watch for pickpocketing around Centrale and crowded metros (M3). Scams near Duomo: friendship bracelets, petition clipboards, fake free roses. Say “No, grazie” firmly. The where to stay guide covers neighborhood safety profiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many days in Milan? Two full days is ideal. One day is rushed, three allows a day trip. See things to do for itineraries.
- Is Milan expensive? Yes, Italy’s priciest city. But: stand at the bar for coffee (€1.20 vs €8 seated), aperitivo as dinner (€10 to 12), free museum days. The free things to do guide has budget tips. Daily budget: €80 to 120 low, €150 to 250 mid, €300+ luxury.
- Can I drink tap water? Yes. Hundreds of free vedovelle fountains throughout the city.
- Do things close for siesta? No. Milan follows northern European hours. Shops 10 AM to 7:30 PM, dinner 7:30 to 10:30 PM. August Ferragosto closures; the eating guide notes open spots.
- Do I need to book museums ahead? Last Supper: absolutely, 2 to 3 months. Duomo rooftop: recommended April to October. The museums guide has details.
- What time do Milanese eat? Lunch 12:30 to 2:30 PM. Dinner 8:00 to 10:30 PM. Aperitivo 6:00 to 9:00 PM.
- Transport strikes? Frequent scioperi announced 1 to 2 weeks ahead. Check ATM website. Walking is the best backup.
- What is the weather like? Cold foggy winters, hot humid summers, glorious springs and autumns. See weather by month. For event timing, see best time to visit.
Quick Reference
- Currency: Euro (€). Cards widely accepted.
- Emergency: 112.
- Pharmacies: Green cross sign. Late-night: Farmacia di Turno.
- Restrooms: Scarce. Use museums, cafés, or La Rinascente near the Duomo.
- SIM cards: TIM, Vodafone, WindTre. 50 to 100GB for €15 to 25. Bring passport. eSIM (Airalo, Holafly) popular.
- City tax: €3 to 5 per person per night, at check-out. Not in prepaid rates.
