12-Day Italy Itinerary: Discovering Milan and Beyond

Day 1: Milan Exploration

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pavé

Start your day with a delicious brioche and espresso at Pavé, a cozy bakery adored by locals.
Walk to your first destination.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Duomo di Milano

Admire the breathtaking Gothic architecture of the iconic cathedral and consider climbing to the rooftop for panoramic views of the city.
Short walk from Pavé.
EUR15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Luini

Indulge in a famous panzerotto, a delicious savory pastry, at Luini, located just a short walk from the Duomo.
5-minute walk.
EUR8, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Stroll through Italy's oldest shopping gallery, filled with high-end shops, cafés, and beautiful architecture.
Adjacent to Duomo.
Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Castello Sforzesco

Explore the historic Sforza Castle and its vast grounds, where you can find museums and beautiful gardens.
15-minute walk from Galleria.
EUR10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Di Porta Tich

Enjoy a Milanese dinner featuring Risotto alla Milanese at this charming trattoria.
20-minute walk or short metro ride.
EUR25, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Highlights

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Cova

Treat yourself to a luxurious breakfast at this historic café known for its pastries.
Short metro ride.
EUR12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Santa Maria delle Grazie

See Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, The Last Supper, and take in the magnificent architecture of the church.
10-minute walk.
EUR15 (reservation required), 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Pinacoteca di Brera

Discover an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art in this beautiful gallery.
15-minute walk.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Milanese

Savor authentic Milanese cuisine including the classic Ossobuco.
20-minute walk.
EUR20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Relax at Sempione Park

Stroll through Milan's largest park, perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic.
10-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping in Brera District

Browse the stylish boutiques and artisan shops in the artsy Brera neighborhood.
5-minute walk.
Free unless purchasing., 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at RISO

Enjoy contemporary Italian cuisine and a chic atmosphere at RISO.
Short metro ride.
EUR30, 2 hours
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Day 3: Scenic Lake Como

Lake Como, Italy

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast at your hotel before heading out.
Prepare for day trip.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Lake Como

Take a train from Milano Centrale to Como, a scenic ride that takes about an hour.
Board train at Milano Centrale.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Como Town

Wander through the charming streets, visiting the Como Cathedral and local shops.
Walk from the station.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Take a Ferry to Bellagio

Enjoy a scenic ferry ride to Bellagio, often referred to as the 'Pearl of Lake Como.'
Ferry terminal is nearby.
EUR16, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Ristorante La Punta

Dine with views of the lake at this lovely restaurant known for its local cuisine.
Walk from the ferry terminal.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Bellagio

Wander the picturesque streets and visit gardens of Villa Melzi.
Walk around the village.
EUR5 (for Villa Melzi), 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Ferry Back to Como

Return to Como via ferry, taking in the stunning views on the way.
Ferry terminal in Bellagio.
EUR16, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Mistral

Savor a delightful dinner overlooking the lakeshore, featuring local fish dishes.
Close to the train station.
EUR35, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Return to Milan

Head back to Milan by taking the train, reflecting on a wonderful day.
Board train at Como.
EUR10, 1 hour
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Day 4: Historic Bergamo

Bergamo, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel.
Preparation for day trip.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Bergamo

Catch a train from Milano Centrale to Bergamo, taking about an hour.
Board at Milano Centrale.
EUR5, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Città Alta

Visit the historic upper city with its medieval architecture and scenic views.
Funicular ride or walk from station.
EUR3, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Da Mimmo

Enjoy traditional Lombard cuisine at a cozy restaurant native to the area.
Short walk from main square.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Accademia Carrara

Discover masterpieces of Italian art in this prestigious gallery.
Stroll through Città Alta.
EUR10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at La Taverna di Bergamo

Indulge in a rustic Italian meal paired with a local wine.
Short walk from gallery.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Return to Milan

Take the train back to Milan, reflecting on the beauty of Bergamo.
Board train at Bergamo station.
EUR5, 1 hour
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Day 5: Modern Milan

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Marchesi

Experience a traditional Milanese pastry shop with timeless recipes.
Prepare for day out.
EUR12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Museo del Novecento

Explore 20th-century Italian art in a stunning building that overlooks the Duomo.
5-minute walk from your breakfast spot.
EUR10, 2 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through Via della Spiga

Explore Milan's prestigious fashion district, indulging in window-shopping luxury brands.
Walk towards the fashion district.
Free unless purchasing., 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Spontini

Grab a slice of their world-famous pizza, a local favorite.
10-minute walk.
EUR8, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Armani/Silos

Dive into the world of fashion at this museum dedicated to the designs of Giorgio Armani.
Approx. 15-minute walk.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at the Navigli District

Enjoy the lively canals of Milan, perfect for a leisurely walk or some coffee at a canal-side café.
Metro to Porta Genova.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Osteria del Binari

Experience warm hospitality and dine on traditional Italian fare in a cozy setting.
Short walk from Navigli.
EUR25, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Culinary Journey in Emilia-Romagna

Bologna, Italy

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a filling breakfast to prepare for a day of exploration.
Prepare for day trip.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Bologna

Take the high-speed train from Milan to Bologna, which takes about 1 hour.
Board at Milano Centrale.
EUR25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Piazza Maggiore

Explore the main square and its stunning historic architecture.
Walk from the train station.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Two Towers

Climb the Torre Asinelli for incredible views over Bologna.
Walk to the towers.
EUR3, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria Anna Maria

Savor traditional Bolognese pasta dishes, a highlight of the local cuisine.
Short walk from the towers.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Mercato di Mezzo

Explore the bustling market with fresh produce and local specialties.
10-minute walk.
Free unless purchasing., 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Take a Cooking Class

Join a local chef and learn how to prepare traditional Italian dishes.
Organized class location.
EUR70, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Vissani

Enjoy a gourmet dinner showcasing Emilia-Romagna’s culinary delights.
Walk from your cooking class.
EUR40, 2 hours
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Day 7: Art and Culture in Florence

Florence, Italy

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a filling breakfast at your hotel.
Get ready for travel.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Florence

Take a high-speed train from Milan to Florence, approximately 2 hours.
Board at Milano Centrale.
EUR40, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Piazzale Michelangelo

Enjoy stunning views of Florence and its iconic landmarks from this panoramic terrace.
Short bus ride to the viewpoint.
EUR2, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore the Uffizi Gallery

Immerse yourself in one of the world's most important art museums, home to the works of Botticelli, Michelangelo, and more.
Walk from Piazzale Michelangelo.
EUR20 (reservation recommended), 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Mercato Centrale

Discover various food stalls serving traditional Tuscan dishes in a vibrant market setting.
Short walk from Uffizi.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Florence Cathedral

Explore the magnificent Duomo, and if time permits, climb to the top for unparalleled views of the city.
5-minute walk from lunch.
EUR18 (for climbing), 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Osteria Santo Spirito

Dine at a lovely eatery in a quaint square, enjoying authentic Florentine cuisine.
Walk from the cathedral.
EUR25, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: A Day in Pisa

Pisa, Italy

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast to start your day right.
Preparation for travel.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Pisa

Take a train to Pisa, roughly 1.5 hours from Florence.
Board at Florence Santa Maria Novella.
EUR18, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Leaning Tower

Climb up the Leaning Tower of Pisa for a unique view and amazing photo opportunities.
Walking distance from the train station.
EUR20 (reservation required), 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Piazza dei Miracoli

Wander around the iconic square, taking photos of the cathedral and baptistery.
Just outside the tower.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Caffe dell'Opera

Enjoy authentic Tuscan dishes in a charming setting close to the attractions.
Short walk from the square.
EUR18, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Museo dell'Opera del Duomo

Discover fascinating artifacts and insights related to the Pisa Cathedral.
Walk from lunch.
EUR10, 1 hour

4:00PM

Return to Florence

Head back to Florence by train to continue your exploration of Tuscany.
Board at Pisa Centrale.
EUR18, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Trattoria I' Riffaiolo

Experience authentic Italian meals in a trattoria beloved by locals.
Walk from the station.
EUR25, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: La Dolce Vita in Milan

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Panificio Pattini

Start with fresh pastries and coffee at this quaint bakery.
Prepare for city exploration.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Museo del Design

Explore exhibits showcasing contemporary design and Italian creativity.
Metro ride or short walk.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Shopping in Corso Buenos Aires

Stroll through Milan's bustling shopping street filled with stores for every budget.
Short metro ride.
Free unless purchasing., 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia

Savor a Michelin-starred meal that blends tradition with modernity.
A short metro ride.
EUR70, 2 hours

3:00PM

Explore Porta Venezia

Take a leisurely stroll through this historic district famous for its eclectic architecture.
Short metro ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Da Giacomo

Dine in this upscale restaurant known for its seafood and elegant ambience.
A brief metro ride.
EUR60, 2 hours
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Day 10: Romantic Verona

Verona, Italy

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Prepare for a day filled with romance and history with a hearty breakfast.
Get ready for the trip.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Verona

Take a train from Milan to Verona, which takes about 1.5 hours.
Board at Milano Centrale.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Juliet's House

Tour the famous house associated with Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.
Walk from the train station.
EUR6, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore the Arena di Verona

Discover this ancient Roman amphitheater and take photos of its impressive facade.
Stroll through the city.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Osteria Il Bertoldo

Enjoy traditional Veronese dishes in a lovely setting with a view over the city.
10-minute walk.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Piazza delle Erbe

Take in the vibrant atmosphere of Verona’s popular square while exploring local shops.
Stroll from lunch.
Free unless purchasing., 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Wander along the Adige River

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beautiful river with stunning views of the city.
Walk from Piazza delle Erbe.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Antica Bottega

Indulge in exquisite local dishes in a historic restaurant filled with charm.
15-minute walk.
EUR35, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Return to Milan

Board the train back to Milan, reminiscing about your lovely day in Verona.
Board at Verona Porta Nuova.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Hidden Gem Mantua

Mantua, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a filling breakfast at your hotel.
Preparation for day ahead.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Mantua

Take a train to Mantua from Milan, which will take around 2 hours.
Board at Milano Centrale.
EUR12, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Palazzo Ducale

Explore the magnificent Ducal Palace, a treasure trove of art and history.
Walk from the station.
EUR12, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Osteria dell'Oca

Savor local Mantuan cuisine with signature dishes.
Short walk from the palace.
EUR18, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Basilica di Sant'Andrea

Marvel at the stunning architecture and rich history of this magnificent church.
Walk from lunch.
EUR5, 1 hour

4:30PM

Relax by Lake Superior

End your day in Mantua by strolling by the beautiful lake with scenic views.
Short walk from the basilica.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Al Caneter

Enjoy a delightful dinner in a cozy setting, featuring local specialties.
Short walk from the lake.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Return to Milan

Take the train back to Milan after a fulfilling day.
Board at Mantova station.
EUR12, 2 hours
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Day 12: Final Day in Milan

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in Milan with a view of the skyline.
Preparation for travel home.
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Shopping at Viale Montenapoleone

Spend your final morning shopping in the fashion district, picking up souvenirs.
Metro or a stroll.
Free unless purchasing., 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Bar Luce

Dine in a stylish café designed by Wes Anderson, perfect for a light meal.
Short walk to Fondazione Prada.
EUR20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Fondazione Prada

Explore contemporary art exhibitions at this stunning cultural institution.
Close to Bar Luce.
EUR15, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Giardini Pubblici

Conclude your trip with a leisurely walk in the beautiful public gardens of Milan.
Metro or short walk.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Toscana

Celebrate your final evening in Milan with traditional Tuscan flavors and wines.
Short metro ride or taxi.
EUR30, 2 hours
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