Milan & Lake Como 3-Day Budget-Friendly Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Milan Highlights

Morning: Start your day exploring the iconic Duomo di Milano, marveling at its stunning architecture. Afterwards, take a stroll through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for some window shopping and coffee.

Afternoon: Visit the Sforza Castle and its surrounding park, a perfect spot to relax and soak up some history. Grab lunch at a nearby budget-friendly trattoria.

Evening: Head to the vibrant Navigli District to enjoy canalside aperitivos and affordable dinner options in lively, authentic surroundings.

Day 2: Museums & Cultural Exploration

Morning: Visit the Pinacoteca di Brera to see Renaissance masterpieces. The neighborhood itself offers charming streets to explore.

Afternoon: Explore Santa Maria delle Grazie (book in advance to see The Last Supper, budget permitting) or alternatively, visit the modern Fondazione Prada. Enjoy a casual lunch at a budget-friendly café nearby.

Evening: Relax at Porta Garibaldi, an area with lively squares and affordable eateries perfect for a pleasant dinner.

Day 3: Day Trip to Lake Como

Morning: Catch an early train from Milan Centrale to Como San Giovanni (about 40 minutes). Upon arrival, explore the charming Como town center and its lakeside promenade.

Afternoon: Take a budget-friendly public ferry to Bellagio, the "Pearl of Lake Como," and enjoy walking through its picturesque streets and gardens.

Evening: Return by ferry and train to Milan. Have a relaxed dinner near your hotel or at Milan Centrale.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Duomo di Milano – 2 hours – €5 (Terrace access optional extra)
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – 1 hour – Free
• Sforza Castle – 2 hours – Free entry; museums inside €5
• Navigli District – 3 hours (evening) – €10 (food & drinks estimated)
• Pinacoteca di Brera – 2 hours – €10
• Santa Maria delle Grazie (The Last Supper) – 1 hour – €15 (if booked in advance; alternative Fondazione Prada €12)
• Porta Garibaldi – 2 hours – €10 (dinner)
• Train Milan to Como round trip – 2 hours travel – €10 return
• Lake Como Ferry (round trip Bellagio) – 3 hours – €15

Total Estimated Cost: €92

Tips

• If you want to extend your trip, consider spending an extra day at Lake Como to explore Varenna or Menaggio, two other beautiful lakeside towns accessible by ferry.
• To reduce the duration, skip the museum visits on Day 2 and spend more time discovering neighborhoods like Brera or the Navigli area for free outdoor experiences and local culture.