12-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Milan, Italy

Day 1: Explore City Center

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pavé

Start your day with a delicious pastry and cappuccino at this beloved bakery.
Located just a short walk from the central areas.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Duomo di Milano

Explore the iconic cathedral and, if budget allows, climb to the rooftop for stunning views.
Walk to the cathedral from Pavé.
EUR15 (rooftop access), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Luini Panzerotti

Savor authentic panzerotti, a cheap and delicious street food option.
A short walk from the Duomo.
EUR5, 1 hour

1:00PM

Stroll to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Enjoy the ornate shopping gallery with a classic Milanese ambiance.
Located next to the Duomo.
Free, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Castello Sforzesco

Explore the castle grounds and museums, free to enter the grounds for a relaxed walk.
Take a metro or walk from Galleria.
EUR10 (museum entry), free for grounds, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax in Sempione Park

Unwind in this beautiful park right next to the castle.
Walk from Castello Sforzesco.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Milanese

Enjoy a traditional Milanese dish like Risotto alla Milanese at this affordable trattoria.
Take the metro to the Navigli district.
EUR12, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Day

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Napoli

Enjoy a strong espresso and a cornetto in this classic Italian café.
Near your accommodation.
EUR4, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Pinacoteca di Brera

Explore the extensive art collection in this beautiful art gallery.
Take the metro to Lanza station.
EUR10, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Il Solferino

Offering affordable fresh pasta dishes; try their daily special.
Walking distance from Pinacoteca.
EUR8, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Brera District

Wander through the artsy streets, maybe visit a few charming boutiques.
Stroll around the surrounding areas.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio

Check out this beautiful historic church, significant in Milanese history.
Metro to Sant'Ambrogio station.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Coffee Break at Macha Coffee

Rejuvenate with a matcha or another organic coffee drink.
Take a short walk from Basilica.
EUR5, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Osteria Conchetta

Sample local cuisine that fits your budget perfectly.
Walk or take a short bus ride.
EUR10, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Day of Shopping & Relaxation

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Marchesi

Indulge in a traditional breakfast with pastries in a historic setting.
Metro to Montenapoleone station.
EUR6, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shopping in the Quadrilatero della Moda

Window-shop in Milan's upscale fashion district, soaking in the city's style.
Walk from the bakery.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at 10 Corso Como

Relax in this trendy café with great sandwiches and salads.
Walk to this iconic spot.
EUR10, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Navigli District

Wander along the picturesque canals, perhaps visit local art studios.
Take the metro to Porta Genova.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Museo Nazionale della Scienza e della Tecnologia

Check out the fascinating inventions and exhibitions dedicated to technology.
Short walk from Navigli.
EUR10, 2 hours

5:30PM

Snack at Panificio Pattini

Grab a slice of focaccia or a local pastry while on the go.
Close to the museum.
EUR3, 30 mins

6:00PM

Dinner at Pizzeria Spontini

Enjoy a slice of the famous thick crust pizza that Milan is known for.
Metro or walk to the restaurant.
EUR8, 1 hour
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Day 4: Architecture & History

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bistrot 4 Fiumi

Have a continental breakfast before a day filled with exploration.
Check public transport options nearby.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Santa Maria delle Grazie

Admire the church and see Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper (reservation required).
Use metro to Conciliazione station.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Corso Magenta

Stroll through this historical street, taking in beautiful architecture.
A short walk from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria da Abele

Indulge in a hearty meal with local flavors.
Take the metro to Porta Genova.
EUR12, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Royal Palace of Milan

Wander the beautiful rooms and enjoy exhibitions.
Metro to Duomo.
EUR10, 2 hours

4:30PM

Walk to the Pinacoteca del Castello

Enjoy the art collection housed within the castle itself.
Quick walk from the royal palace.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Grab Dinner at Casa Tua Osteria

Fill up on their traditional pasta dishes in a cozy environment.
Walk back towards your accommodation.
EUR10, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Art & Culture

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at California Bakery

Try their delicious blueberry pancakes in a comfy setting.
Take the metro to the location.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Fondazione Prada

Dive into contemporary art and design in this unique cultural institution.
Use tram 14 to arrive there.
EUR12, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Milanese

Savor a delightful risotto at this beloved local restaurant.
Travel back using the tram.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Museum of 20th Century

Explore fascinating exhibits showcasing 20th-century art.
Walk to the museum from the trattoria.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relish Coffee at Cova Montenapoleone

Take a break with a cup of coffee at one of Milan's historic patisseries.
Walk from the museum.
EUR5, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Da Michele

Try the famous Neapolitan pizza, a hit among the locals.
Take the metro back to central Milan.
EUR10, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Modern Milan

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bar Luce

Enjoy a unique breakfast in a café designed by Wes Anderson.
Metro to Porta Genova.
EUR6, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Porta Nuova District

Admire the modern skyscrapers and innovative architecture.
Walking tour through the district.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Casa Manzoni

Dive into the life of Italian author Alessandro Manzoni.
Walk from Porta Nuova.
EUR5, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Eataly

Enjoy the best of Italian cuisine, all in one place with affordable options.
Metro to Porta Garibaldi.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Hangar Bicocca

Explore large-scale art installations in this former industrial space.
Tram 31 or metro to Sesto Marelli.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Coffee Break at Bricco

Refresh with a coffee in a casual atmosphere.
Short walk from Hangar Bicocca.
EUR4, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Toscana

Enjoy Tuscan cuisine in a homely setting.
Return via metro.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Local Life & Markets

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien

Enjoy organic pastries and fair-trade coffee to kickstart your day.
Nearby your accommodation.
EUR7, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Mercato di Via Fauche

This local market has an eclectic mix of food stalls and vintage finds.
Take the metro to Garibaldi.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Brunch at Fondazione Prada's Bar

Enjoy brunch-style dishes with a contemporary twist.
Tram or metro to the venue.
EUR8, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore the Navigli Flea Market

Browse vintage finds and artisanal items along the picturesque canals.
Take a metro to the Navigli district.
Free, 3 hours

4:00PM

Snack at Gelateria della Musica

Indulge in some of the best gelato in Milan.
Close to the Navigli.
EUR3, 30 mins

6:00PM

Dinner at Osteria della Storia

A cozy destination for delightful pasta dishes and local wines.
Take a metro back or walk.
EUR12, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Relax & Discover

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at California Bakery

Savor a classic American-style breakfast in a cheerful café.
Near the Duomo area.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Teatro alla Scala

Take a guided tour of the world-renowned opera house.
Walk to the opera house.
EUR9, 1 hour

11:00AM

Free Time for Shopping

Explore local shops or return to areas you loved.
At your leisure, near Via Montenapoleone.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ramen Giapponese

Grab a satisfying bowl of ramen without breaking the bank.
Short walk from shopping areas.
EUR10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Boschetti

Experience this unique installation in the heart of Milan.
Walk to the installation.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Coffee at Caffè Cova

Indulge in another delightful coffee experience in an elegant café.
Nearby, taking a short walk.
EUR5, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Da Vic - Ristorante del Mare

Fresh seafood awaits you at this charming restaurant.
Metro back to central areas.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Outdoor Day

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Cova Montenapoleone

Start your day with an exquisite pastry from this historic bakery.
Located near Via Montenapoleone.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Walk through Giardini Indro Montanelli

Take a leisurely stroll through this beautiful park.
Short walk from the bakery.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Planetarium di Milano

Learn about the universe at this engaging educational site.
Walk or take a tram ride.
EUR6, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Beirut Restaurant

Enjoy a Middle Eastern meal at this highly-rated eatery.
Tram or metro from the planetarium.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Porta Venezia

Discover this lively neighborhood packed with beautiful architecture.
Short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Coffee at Casa Tua

Enjoy a warm coffee in this cozy setting.
Close to Porta Venezia.
EUR4, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ristorantino

Grab a delicious pizza or pasta in this casual dining spot.
Short walk from the coffee place.
EUR10, 1 hour
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Day 10: Day Trip to Lake Como

Como, Italy

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a simple breakfast option at your accommodation.
At your accommodation.
EUR5, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Como

Take a regional train from Milano Centrale to the beautiful town of Como.
Follow signs to the train platforms.
EUR10, 1 hour (train ride)

9:30AM

Explore Lake Como

Enjoy a lovely day by the lake, take photos, and relax by the water.
Walk to the lakeside upon arrival.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Ristorante Il Platano

Savor Italian cuisine while enjoying the stunning views of the lake.
Within walking distance along the lakeshore.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit Villa Olmo

Explore the beautiful gardens and the stunning villa overlooking the lake.
Walk from the restaurant.
Free for the gardens, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Coffee at Café Como

Take a break at this charming café with scenic views.
Near Villa Olmo.
EUR5, 1 hour

4:30PM

Return to Milan

Head back to Milano Centrale and unwind after a lovely day.
Train back to Milan.
EUR10, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Pizzeria Berberè

Wind down with delicious pizza from a local favorite.
Metro back to your accommodation.
EUR10, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Day Trip to Pavia

Pavia, Italy

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for the day with your preferred breakfast at your accommodation.
At the hotel.
EUR5, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Pavia

Catch a regional train from Milano Centrale to Pavia.
Head to the train platform.
EUR8, 1 hour (train ride)

9:30AM

Visit Certosa di Pavia

Explore this stunning monastery and its beautiful architectures.
Walk or take a bus to the site.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Il Santuario

Try local pasta dishes at this cozy eatery.
Near Certosa.
EUR10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Stroll through Pavia’s Historic Center

Wander around the charming streets and visit the University of Pavia.
Walk back to central Pavia.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Coffee at Caffè Cavour

Enjoy coffee at this quaint café to relax.
Short walk in the historic center.
EUR4, 1 hour

6:00PM

Return to Milan

Head back to your accommodation and unwind.
Train back to Milano Centrale.
EUR8, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Trattoria da Orazio

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with authentic Milanese cuisine.
Metro back to your accommodation.
EUR12, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Last Day in Milan

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bar Luce

Enjoy one last meal in this charming café.
Near your accommodation.
EUR6, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Museo del Novecento

Immerse yourself in contemporary art on your last day.
Short walk from Duomo.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Free Time for Last-Minute Shopping

Utilize the time to pick up some souvenirs.
Walk around Duomo area.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Panzerotti Luini

Indulge in the last taste of Milan with another delicious local snack.
Close to Duomo.
EUR5, 1 hour

2:30PM

Stroll at Via Dante

Take a leisurely walk down this famous street, filled with shops and cafes.
Start from the Duomo area.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Coffee at Caffè Cova

Enjoy your final coffee break in this historic café.
Nearby Via Dante.
EUR5, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Enocaffe

Savor your last meal in Milan with a sumptuous dish and local wine.
Metro back to central areas.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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