4-Day Itinerary for Milan on a Shoestring Budget

  • Day 1: Sforza Castle
    30-minute walk (1.5 miles) from Milan Central Station

    Sforza Castle is a grand castle that houses many museums and art collections. The castle is surrounded by lush gardens where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery. It's a great place to start your Milan adventure and soak up some Italian history.

  • Day 2: Duomo Cathedral
    20-minute walk (1 mile) from Sforza Castle

    The Duomo Cathedral is the most iconic landmark in Milan. The cathedral has amazing Gothic architecture and offers some of the best panoramic views of the city from its rooftop terrace. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the stairs to the top can be tiring.

  • Day 3: Brera Art Gallery
    15-minute walk (0.7 miles) from Duomo Cathedral

    The Brera Art Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers. The gallery houses some of Italy's most important masterpieces, including works by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian. The entry fee is low, making it a budget-friendly attraction.

  • Day 4: Navigli Canal
    25-minute tram ride (3.5 miles) from Brera Art Gallery

    If you're looking for a unique shopping and dining experience, head to the Navigli Canal. The area is filled with trendy boutiques, antique shops, and cosy bars and restaurants. Take a stroll down the canal and enjoy a relaxing boat ride.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Sforza Castle (1-2 hours, Free entry)
  • Duomo Cathedral (2-3 hours, €3 for terrace entry)
  • Brera Art Gallery (2-3 hours, €10 entry fee)
  • Navigli Canal (2-4 hours, Free entry, boat ride costs €10)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €23

Transportation

Public transportation in Milan is reliable and budget-friendly. You can purchase a 24-hour pass for €4.50 to easily navigate the city by tram or bus. Walking is also a great way to see the sights and save on transportation costs.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to Lake Como or Verona. If you have less time, skip the Brera Art Gallery or Navigli Canal, and spend more time exploring other attractions in Milan.

Airports

Malpensa Airport (MXP) is the main airport serving Milan, located about 30 miles from the city center. Linate Airport (LIN) is the smaller airport, located just 4 miles from the city center. Both airports offer shuttle buses and public transportation options to reach the city.

0