A weekend in Milan: the Duomo, Brera and the Navigli without rushing

The best way to spend a weekend in Milan is to think in neighbourhoods: one area in the morning, one in the afternoon and the metro only for the longer stretches. That way you walk a lot but waste little time. Here is a two-day itinerary, with the things to book in advance.

Before you go: what to book

• The Last Supper (Cenacolo Vinciano): booking is always required, only through the official channel.
• Duomo and rooftop terraces: booking is advisable at weekends.
• Temporary exhibitions and restaurants: check programmes and bookings.

Saturday morning: Duomo and Galleria

Start with the Duomo di Milano. On the rooftop terraces you walk among the spires up to the view of the golden Madonnina. Right next door is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. For a quick lunch there is Luini; for an afternoon treat, Pasticceria Marchesi 1824.

Saturday afternoon: Castello and Brera

From the Duomo, walk to the Castello Sforzesco, then head into Brera: the Pinacoteca, the Botanical Garden and the shops. Brera is best explored on foot; the most convenient stops are Lanza and Cairoli.

Sunday: the Last Supper, then the Navigli or Isola

Visit the Last Supper if you have booked, then Corso Magenta and Sant’Ambrogio. In the afternoon choose the Navigli and Tortona, or Isola and Porta Nuova.

Where to eat: our selection

Trattoria Milanese, Latteria di San Marco, Trattoria Torre di Pisa, Ratanà, Pizzium and Peck. Opening times and bookings should be checked with the restaurants.

If you have a long weekend

You can visit Monza or Como on a day trip, check what events are on or go to San Siro.

Looking for a place to stay in Milan? See our homes on ehisrlitalia.com.