cn travel milan

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to do
• Restaurants
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Top 19 travel tips for visiting Milan

From when to drink coffee to when never to visit, you'll be a seasoned expert in no time with these top travel tips

Sure, it’s got a bit of a reputation, but don’t be intimidated by Milan. Anyone who loves great restaurants , Instagram-worthy buildings and at least a bit of shopping will have an absolute blast in Milan, but to save you the stress, there are a few things you should know before you go.

Our Milan experts have rounded up all the best tips and tricks to make you an expert in all things Milan living, from what time to drink coffee and the best negroni you can order to how to make sure you get to see Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper in the flesh. Here are our top travel tips for visiting Milan. 

RECOMMENDED: 🍝 How to eat like a local in Milan 🍕 Where to eat the best pizza in Milan 🚆 How to navigate public transport in Milan 📍 The best things to do in Milan 🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Milan

Liz Humphreys is a writer based in Milan. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . 

An email you’ll actually love

Travel tips for first-time Milan visitors

1.  No need to leave extra

This one might be a shock if you’re visiting Milan from a country with a big tipping culture, but here in Milan, it’s not a thing. Tips aren’t expected, as the city has a pretty good hourly wage (we know, unheard of, right?), so keep your coins for another negroni later on. 

2.  Consider avoiding August

August might seem like a good month to live out your Italian dreams, but if you’re considering it, be warned – Milan gets seriously, swelteringly hot in August. But that’s not the only reason to make a plan for another month, as a fair few shops and restaurants shut down this month while the Milanese go on their holidays. Best not risk it, we say. 

3.  Plan ahead to see Leonardo

If getting a glimpse of Leonardo da Vinci’s  The Last Supper  is on your list, but you haven’t made reservations months in advance, all hope is not lost. Even if online reservations show no tickets are available, try calling the ticket hotline, as some are kept aside for phone callers. Another option is to book a guided Milan tour that also includes a visit to the painting, as these are sometimes more likely to have spots left.

4.  Travel by tram

Though many trams have been modernised, for a unique experience, the  ATMosfera  lets you ride a 1930s tram on a sightseeing trip through the city while enjoying a multicourse dinner with wine. It is a very romantic way to catch a glimpse of Milan’s past inside while peering at the present right outside the windows.

5.  Never order a cappuccino after lunch

Italians are convinced that drinking anything with milk after the morning will hamper digestion. So, to blend in, order that cappuccino (or other coffee drinks with milk, see below for more on that) only before 11am, or risk looking like a foreign fool.

6.  We take latte literally

If you want a coffee with milk, make sure you order a cappuccino (more foam) or caffé latte (less foam), a caffé macchiato (espresso with a little milk), or a latte macchiato (hot milk with a little coffee) instead of just a “latte” – or you’ll only get a glass of milk. If you just want an espresso, order “un caffé” to avoid strange looks.

7.  Enjoy an aperitivo

No visit to Milan is complete without partaking in the pre-dinner (or instead-of-dinner) tradition of  aperitivo. B asically, cocktails are served with all manner of free nibbles, often a buffet with enough food to constitute a meal. Though the Navigli neighbourhood is home to many bars offering  aperitivo , you’ll find it served throughout the city – so go ahead, sample a few different kinds.

8.  Try a Negroni sbagliato

While a classic Negroni – gin, Campari and sweet vermouth – is always a good idea, when in Milan, don’t miss the chance to sample a Negroni  sbagliato , literally a Negroni “mistake.” It was born at Bar Basso in the ‘70s when a bartender added sparkling wine to a Negroni instead of gin, and you can still try it there (amongst other places).

9.  Head away from the Duomo at night

Though several of the major sights you’ll want to see will be around the Duomo area, for a cooler nightlife experience, venture out to some of the more local haunts in such neighbourhoods as Isola, Porta Venezia or Navigli. You’ll get away from the tourists, save money and likely have more fun.

10.  …and even during the day

After exploring the Duomo, the Galleria and La Scala, take a bus or tram out to some of the farther reaches of Milan for truly unique museums that never feel as crowded as the centre city attractions. Fondazione Prada, Pirelli HangarBicocca and MUDEC are all housed in interesting buildings and feature permanent and rotating exhibitions worth your time.

11.  Watch out for Salone

Though arriving during the Milan Furniture Fair, called Salone del Mobile – which runs for six days in mid-April – can be super fun as there are loads of parties and events happening, the city becomes super crowded and expensive. Hotels jack up their prices to stratospheric levels and get booked up months in advance. Ditto during Milan Fashion Week. Unless you’re a diehard furniture design fan, it may be a better idea to visit at a time when the city’s a bit more relaxed.

12.  Visit museums for free

On the first Sunday of each month, all of Milan’s civic museums – including Museo del Novecento, Sforza Castle museums, Galleria d’Arte Moderna, Casa Museo Boschi di Stefano and MUDEC, among others – offer free admission. Though they tend to be more crowded then, it’s still a good chance to squeeze in some more culture without spending a cent.

13.  Head up high

Milan boasts loads of vantage points where you can enjoy prime views of the city skyline. The rooftop of the Duomo, Torre Branca inside Parco Sempione and the terrace on the seventh floor of the Rinascente department store are fabulous places to get an eyeful. Prefer a drink with your vistas? Try the Radio Rooftop Bar or Ceresio 7 Pools & Restaurant.

14.  Wear your snazziest shoes

The Milanese take their footwear very seriously. Women may want to bring a pair or two of high heels to wear out at night – or even during the day if they dare. (You’ll see plenty of locals traipsing effortlessly along the cobblestones wearing stilettos.) Men can often get away with cool sneakers. If you catch the locals checking out your shoes, you’ve probably done well.

15.  Go to La Scala on the cheap

Even if you’re not an opera-lover, catching a performance at Teatro alla Scala is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The problem is, not only are tickets super-pricey, but they sell out months and months in advance. However, if you visit the box office an hour before a show starts, any leftover or returned tickets are sold at a 25% discount – perhaps not cheap, but definitely worth the splurge.

16.  Embrace discount fashion

Yes, many of the clothes, shoes and accessories on sale in Milan are through-the-roof expensive – after all, this is the home of Prada and Versace. But if you just can’t bear to visit this fashion town without a purchase, head over to DMAG outlet. You’ll find three locations showcasing discounted Italian and international luxury brands, so perhaps you can head home with those Miu Miu boots you’ve been eyeing after all.

17.  Shop outside the fashion district

You’ll want to window shop and stroll in Milan’s premier fashion area, Quadrilatero della Moda. But for fun and unique purchases, head north of the Duomo to the pretty Brera district. You’ll find appealing boutiques, galleries and design stores where shopping doesn’t feel like it will bankrupt you.

18.  Plan around the sales

If you’re a serious fashion fiend, consider timing your Milan visit to coincide with one (or both!) of the two yearly sales ( saldi ) periods. The winter sales generally run from early January through early March, and the summer sales from early July through early September – though check online for the exact dates, which vary slightly each year and are announced about one month before. Sale prices can be up to 70 percent off the original, making it well worth a trip.

19.  Get out of town

If you need an escape from Milan’s urban hustle, there are some fabulous destinations just a train ride away. Bergamo, less than an hour by train, boasts a lovely medieval hilltop old town, while the Italian Lakes – Como, Garda and Maggiore – are also close by (half an hour, an hour-and-a-half and an hour by train, respectively) and offer some of the most romantic settings in all of Italy.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide
• Android app

Getty Images

Milan is Italy's city of the future, a fast-paced metropolis where money talks, creativity is big business and looking good is an art form.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, attractions, must-see attractions.

The Last Supper

Corso Magenta & Sant'Ambrogio

Milan's most famous mural, Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, is hidden away on a wall of the refectory adjoining the Basilica di Santa Maria delle…

Duomo & San Babila

A vision in pink Candoglia marble, Milan's extravagant Gothic cathedral, 600 years in the making, aptly reflects the city's creativity and ambition. Its…

Cimitero Monumentale

Porta Garibaldi & Isola

Behind striking Renaissance-revival black-and-white walls, Milan’s wealthy have kept their dynastic ambitions alive long after death with grand sculptural…

Pinacoteca di Brera

Located upstairs from one of Italy’s most prestigious art schools, this gallery houses Milan’s collection of Old Masters, much of it ‘lifted’ from Venice…

Quadrilatero d'Oro

A stroll around the Quadrilatero d'Oro, the world's most famous shopping district, is a must even for those not sartorially inclined. The quaintly cobbled…

Castello Sforzesco

Originally a Visconti fortress, this iconic red-brick castle was later home to the mighty Sforza dynasty, who ruled Renaissance Milan. The castle's…

Museo del Novecento

Overlooking Piazza del Duomo, with fabulous views of the cathedral, is Mussolini's Arengario, from where he would harangue huge crowds in his heyday. Now…

Fondazione Prada

Conceived by designer Miuccia Prada and architect Rem Koolhaas, this museum is as innovative and creative as the minds that gave it shape. Seven renovated…

Top picks from our travel experts

The best things to do in milan, from divine churches to cathedrals of fashion.

Parco Sempione

Situated behind Castello Sforzesco, Parco Sempione was once the preserve of hunting Sforza dukes. Then Napoleon came to town and set about landscaping…

Museo delle Culture

Aiming to be a place of dialogue between people and world cultures, Milan's Museum of Culture, housed in the ex-Ansaldo factory, has an ambitious remit…

Triennale di Milano

Italy’s first Triennale took place in 1923 in Monza. It aimed to promote Italian design and applied arts, and its success led to the construction of…

Museo Poldi Pezzoli

At the age of 24 Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli had inherited not only his family fortune, but also his mother’s love of art. After extensive travels in which…

The top 22 free things to do in Milan

Arco della Pace

Situated at the northwestern edge of Parco Sempione is Napoleon's 25m-high triumphal arch. Designed by Luigi Cagnola in 1807, it echoes Paris' Arc de…

Palazzo Morando Costume Moda Immagine

Dominating Via Sant'Andrea is the baroque facade of the Palazzo Morando Attendolo Bolognini, home to the Bolognini family until 1945. The personal…

Chiesa di San Bernardino alle Ossa

This church dates from the 13th century, when its ossuary was used to bury plague victims from nearby San Barnaba hospital. It was rebuilt in rococo style…

Casa Museo Boschi-di Stefano

Milan’s most eccentric museum of 20th-century Italian painting is crowded in a 1930s apartment that still has the appearance of the haute-bourgeois home…

Orto Botanico

Maria Teresa had the towering gingko planted here in 1777, when she turned the former Jesuit orchard into an open-air lecture hall for budding botanists …

Museo Civico di Storia Naturale

This grand neo-Romanesque building houses Milan's natural history museum, complete with dinosaurs, fossils and the largest geology collection in Europe…

Arena Civica

The arena was Napoleon’s mini-colosseum, which he opened in flamboyant style with a chariot race in 1807. Built by Luigi Canonica, its design allowed it…

San Lorenzo Columns

The freestanding row of 16 Corinthian columns from Milan’s Mediolanum heyday were salvaged from a crumbling Roman residence and lined up here to form the…

Fuorisalone

Fringe fair to the Salone Internazionale del Mobile design and furniture fair, the Fuorisalone animates the entire city for one action-packed week,…

Pirelli HangarBicocca

This stunning, multipurpose exhibition space inhabits a huge former locomotive factory on the outskirts of Milan. Temporary exhibits include smartly…

Navigli Lombardi

Canals were once the autostrade (motorways) of medieval Milan, transporting timber, marble, salt, oil and wine into town. The largest of them, the…

Mercatone dell'Antiquariato

This antiques market is the city's most scenic market. Set along a 400m stretch of the pretty Naviglio Grande, it has stalls from over 380 well-vetted…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Neighborhoods

One of Italy’s most cosmopolitan cities, Milan is a collection of vastly different neighborhoods, each with its own spirit and character. 

Milan is the portal to a whole region of culture, fine food and even finer scenery. From lakes to monasteries, here are the best day trips from Milan.

Transportation

Getting around Milan needn't be a headache even during rush hour. Here's our guide to navigating the fashion capital by bus, bike and train.

Free Things to Do

Milan brims with free attractions, from glorious churches and exceptional architecture to unique museums. Here are the best.

Beyond high fashion, Milan brims with funky independent shops. Here are five of the best ones.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Italy

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Milan

Art and Culture

Aug 23, 2023 • 2 min read

How to enjoy a high-end, low-cost activity in Milan.

Jul 13, 2023 • 4 min read

May 11, 2022 • 7 min read

Jan 27, 2022 • 7 min read

Nov 10, 2021 • 5 min read

Nov 5, 2021 • 5 min read

Nov 5, 2021 • 6 min read

Oct 31, 2021 • 4 min read

Oct 26, 2021 • 4 min read

Oct 26, 2021 • 6 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Milan

Milan and beyond.

• 2024 TRAVEL UPDATE
• Work with us
• Beyond Bologna
• Regions of Italy
• Travel books
• Best group tours
• Itineraries
• Accommodation guide
• Italian phrases for travel
• Rocket Italian review: 2024 update
• Ultimate Italy Travel Planner
• City Planners
• Essential Guides
• Italy themed gift ideas
• Trip planning services

3 Days in Milan: Itinerary Ideas and Top Sights

This article may contain compensated links. See our full disclosure here

Milan is an exciting, grand and modern Italian city that has a long and colorful past. It’s a city with a rich culture, from the majestic buildings that dominate the landscape to its reputation as one of the world’s fashion capitals. There is plenty to do in this glorious part of the world, so making a 3-day itinerary for Milan isn’t easy but it’s definitely possible.

Let’s discover the best things to do in Milan in 3 days, from exploring Castello Sforzesco to a lovely day trip to Lake Como. We’ve also included logistics, like travel costs and where to stay and eat.

Article contents

Top Sights for Your 3 Days in Milan Itinerary

Where to begin? Let’s take a look at the city’s top sights so you can decide what are the highlights of Milan must sees to add to your itinerary. 

Duomo di Milano

This impressive cathedral is the second largest in Italy after St Peter’s Basilica in Rome and has a towering facade of relief sculptures, a vast interior of large marble columns and high ceilings. Aside from the intricate sculptures and stained glass windows that make up this magnificent building, it’s also the seat of the Archbishop of Milan and is an enduring icon of the city.

Piazza Del Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

No trip to Milan is complete without a visit to Piazza del Duomo. It’s easy to see why this iconic cobblestoned square with cafes and historic buildings surrounding it is seen as the heart of the city. And the four-story Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a vibrant shopping center with fashion stores galore. It’s the oldest active shopping area in the city and something you can’t miss.

Santa Maria Delle Grazie

Many people know of Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper , but not many know it’s housed in Santa Maria Delle Grazie . This is a beautiful little church and UNESCO World Heritage Site in central Milan. 

Here you’ll also come across a pristine garden and magnificent architecture. So it’s well worth the visit, not just to see the Last Supper .

Castello Sforzesco

For a deep dive into Milan’s past, visit the ancient fortification of Castello Sforzesco . It now houses famous art treasures such as Michelangelo’s unfinished work Rondanini Pietà . When you’re done exploring this famous building, you can stroll through the breathtaking Parco Sempione.

Pinacoteca di Brera

For all things art, head to the Pinacoteca di Brera . This is the main art gallery in Milan and houses iconic works such as The Kiss by Francesco Hayes and The Marriage of The Virgin by Raphael. With a particular focus on painting, there are over 400 artworks for you to admire within these walls.

Bonus: San Siro for AC Milan and Inter Milan Fans

It’s not often you find a football stadium used by two rival teams, but the San Siro is home to both AC Milan and Inter Milan. This is an excellent visit for any football fan, and who knows, you may be able to catch a game while in Milan.

Day 1: Explore Milan’s City Center and Navigli District

You simply have to start your Milan itinerary by exploring Centro Storico, the buzzing heart of the city’s history and culture. From the cobblestoned streets of Piazza Duomo to the majestic Milan Cathedral that towers over the city, there are plenty of exciting activities and sights in store. 

Morning and Afternoon – Explore the Sights of Old Town

To get the perfect Milan itinerary kickstarted, you’ll begin the day at Duomo Square. This is smack dab in the city center and provides easy access to many of the historical buildings in the area. For fantastic views of the Duomo Cathedral and tasty pastries, grab breakfast at Giacomo Caffè .

TOP TIP: Get your tickets for the Duomo and the Archaeological site here .

From there, spend the morning exploring the sites in and around Old Town. You can feed your shopping cravings at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and discover exactly why this is one of the world’s fashion capitals. Walk across the square, and you’ll find the Duomo Museum and Palazzo Reale di Milano where you can explore the works of Michelangelo and Max Ernst.

If you’ve still got time before lunch, walk to the Piazza della Scala, five minutes from Duomo Square. At Piazza della Scala, you’ll come across Teatro alla Scala . This 18th-century theater is the epitome of Italian style, with a breathtaking facade and lavish interior. Although most showings are at night, the museum and music library at this theater is fantastic to explore during the day.

DISCOVER: What goes on behind the music at Teatro alla Scala with a guided experience .

After lunch — which we’ll cover in just a bit — take a 15-minute walk to Castello Sforzesco to see what lies within the walls of this ancient fortification. A walk through Parco Sempione is an amazing way to enjoy the afternoon. There’s plenty to see, from the Bridge of The Little Mermaids to the iconic Arco Della Pace.

Lunch and Gelato Stop Suggestions in Centro Storico

• Langosteria Cafe Milano – Dine in style at this Milan restaurant. It has a moody atmosphere that sets the tone for a fantastic meal. This spot is one of the pricier options in the area, but nothing beats fresh seafood and authentic Italian pasta.
• Spazio Niko Romito – For a more affordable but equally eclectic experience, visit this airy and inviting restaurant. Light streams in from the wall-to-ceiling windows, and the classic linguini or pan-seared salmon make for a delicious meal you won’t forget.
• Gelato Stop: Artico Gelateria Tradizionale – Some of the top ice cream makers come from the esteemed school of Gruppo Artico, and this is one of their fantastic gelato spots. Here, you can sample the classic flavors and some new and unusual ones. Artico Gelateria also has a vibey spot to sit and people-watch while you enjoy your frozen cup of deliciousness.

If you’ve got some time at the end of the day, visiting the San Siro Stadium is a great idea. It’s an 8-minute bus ride from Parco Sempione to the stadium, with prices varying between €1 and €2. You may be able to watch AC Milan or Inter Milan play, or you can join a guided tour of San Siro . Either way, it’s a great detour that all football fans will appreciate.

Evening – Dinner or a Food Tour in Navigli

End your one day in Milan with a delightful dinner in Navigli. Enjoy a 30-minute walk through the streets of Milan from Centro Storico to the Navigli District. Alternatively, you can catch a 6-minute taxi ride between €9 and €12 per trip.

The Navigli District is a glorious destination to enjoy the nightlife of Milan. If you like pizza head to SCIUÉ Navigli which is also popular for desserts like pannacotta and tiramisu.

The charming Navigli area surrounds the city’s main canal and is known for its restaurants and bars. It’s the perfect place for an aperitivo tour where you can sample the city’s favorite drinks and snacks. You’ll dive into everything from local cheeses to delicious wine, classy cocktails, and delicious salami. While you indulge in Navigli delights, don’t forget to admire the glorious sunset over the canal. It’s a magical sight, and the trendy bars make it a vibrant space.

Expert Tips for Your First Day in Milan

• Don’t rush – Take your time and enjoy a few landmarks rather than rushing. The sights in the city center are steeped in history and intrigue, so rather spend some time at each one.
• Tour or no tour? – You can explore Milan without joining a tour. But if you want to skip the hassle of booking individual entrance tickets and travel costs, consider joining this private guided walking tour .
• Pre-book tickets to the Milan Cathedral – If you choose to explore the city on your terms, make sure you pre-book a ticket to the Milan Cathedral. This will help save time by skipping the ticket line. Certain tickets even grant access to the cathedral roof, where you can admire the Milan skyline. > Book your ticket here

Day 2: Discover the Brera District and Leonardo Da Vinci Works

As renowned as Milan is for its fashion, the city is also teeming with art. So it makes complete sense to dedicate the second day of your perfect Milan itinerary to exploring the neighborhood of Brera’s abundance of art and culture.

Morning and Afternoon – Explore Brera District’s Art Galleries

Start the morning with a tasty confectionery and a strong shot of espresso at Princi Bakery Brera . Once you’re all fueled up for the day, take a short 7-minute walk to the glorious Pinacoteca di Brera . It’s a museum dedicated to paintings and sculptures created between the 13th and 20th centuries, focusing on Italian artists. There are various rooms for you to explore, all housing masterpieces by the likes of Carravagio, Raphael, and more.  Just keep in mind that there’s a standard entry fee of €15. The ticket comes with an access card that allows you to visit the museum as many times as you like for the next three months.

Once you’ve had lunch, it’s time to visit Milan’s greatest attraction at the church of Santa Maria Delle Grazie . This church houses the Leonardo da Vinci classic, The Last Supper . Although this massive, 180 x 350-inch artwork is the main event at Santa Maria Delle Grazie, it’s not all there is to see.

LEARN: The history on a tour of The Last Supper and more on how to buy tickets .

The Gothic architecture of Santa Maria Delle Grazie is stunning, with beautifully crafted granite decorated in Corinthian leaves. Other outstanding works you can gaze at include The Crowning of Thorns by Tiziano Vecellio and Crucifixion by Gaudenzio Ferrari. If you still have spare time, visit some other galleries in the area, like Miart Gallery and Galleria d’Arte Moderna .

Lunch and Gelato Stop Suggestions

• Ristorante Nabucco – For a delicious lunch in the heart of Brera, look no further than Nabucco. It’s a pricey option, but you’re guaranteed the best, from divine saffron risotto to innovative and delicious pasta dishes.
• Il Cestino – Eat at this classy yet affordable restaurant when you’re done gazing at the fine arts galleries. The walls of wine cabinets create a homely environment, and the divine selection of authentic Italian food is the cherry on top.
• Gelato Stop: Rivareno – This is one of the few Gelato joints that rivals Artico, and it’s easy to see why. With welcoming and modern seating, you can refresh your palette in a stylish part of town.

When you’re not admiring famous paintings on this Italian adventure, consider walking through the Brera Botanical Garden. It’s just behind the Palazzo Brera and provides a great chance to escape the buzz of the city and stroll through nature for a bit.

Evening – Enjoy Fine Dining at Cracco & a Night Tour

There are 16 Michelin Star restaurants in Milan, but that doesn’t mean all of them are super expensive. If you’re seeking a fine dining experience but want to save some bucks, go to the one Michelin Star Ristorante Cracco . With only the finest locally sourced ingredients and a romantic setting in the heart of Centro Storico, you’re guaranteed a memorable dinner. Remember you’ll need to reserve a table in advance, similar to other Michelin Star restaurants.

End the day by joining this night walking tour as street lights create a dazzling display. You’ll be able to snap some gorgeous nighttime photos during the tour and see sites like the Colonne di San Lorenzo and the Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio.

Expert Milan Travel Tips for Day 2

• Pre-book Santa Maria tickets – Tickets for the Last Supper are in high demand, and are sometimes sold out for up to six months. So be sure to book your ticket well in advance or join this Milan skip-the-line tour .
• Join a tour at Brera Art Gallery – It’s a fairly big place to explore, so you can easily lose track of time or miss some classic Italian paintings. Prevent this from happening by joining this Pinacoteca guided experience .
• Wear comfortable shoes – It may be an obvious thing to say, but footwear is key when exploring Milan in 3 days. You’ll do a lot of walking, and Brera has cobblestoned streets, so it’s essential you have comfortable shoes with good grip. 

Day 3: Day Trip to Lake Como

Now you’ve admired the magnificent art and architectural wonders of Milan, why not explore the area around the city and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Lake Como . You can catch a train and explore on your own or join a guided tour of the lake from central Milan . 

If you choose to take the train, departing from Milan you can choose to arrive in Como town at the lakeside train station Como Lago or travel to Varenna, a picturesque town in the center of the lake. It’s an hour’s travel time through the rolling scenery of northern Italy, and train tickets start at €5.

TOP TIP: You’ll see more on a guided tour of Lake Como than on a self-guided day trip.

Morning and Afternoon – Explore the Towns of Como, Bellagio, & Varenna

Begin the day by exploring the town of Como, with its pastel-colored buildings. The town is on the southwestern fork of this upside-down Y-shaped lake with picturesque pine forests. After exploring Como, jump on a boat and head to Bellagio. This is a 40-minute boat trip along the majestic waters of Lake Como, with the average ferry cost starting at €7. Once in Bellagio, you can wander the narrow cobblestone streets and visit the quaint thrift shops dotted around town. Don’t forget to wander along the lakeside and visit the Basilica of San Giacomo in the town center before grabbing lunch.

After lunch, catch another ferry to Varenna. This is just a 15-minute ride, and tickets start at €3. Spend the afternoon walking through the botanical gardens of Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi. These are fantastic spots to capture the sunset amongst picture-perfect gardens. You can return back to Milan from either Como Lago or Varenna train stations.

READ: Our guide on How to get from Milan to Lake Como . 

Lunch and Gelato Suggestions in Bellagio

• Antico Pozzo – For delicious pizza and all things Italian in a quiet and picturesque courtyard, eat at Antico Pozzo.
• Bilacus Ristorante – For a fine dining experience amongst the narrow streets of Bellagio, visit Bilacus. You’ll find Instagram-worthy plates of delicious local food here.
• Gelato Stop: Smooth Operators – Look no further than this cute little store along the waterfront for the finest gelato in Bellagio.

READ: Our guide of Things to do on a trip to Lake Como .

Alternate Day Trip

Visiting Verona is an excellent option if you want to experience the countryside east of Milan. There’s plenty of history and food to enjoy here, and you can read about it in this guide on taking a day trip to Verona from Milan .

Evening – Have an Early Dinner in Varenna

Before leaving Lake Como , enjoy an early dinner in Varenna. Just keep in mind that the last train leaves at 21:35 with an hour and 30 minutes travel time and will cost around €8.

DISCOVER: Everything you need to know about Traveling by train in Italy .

For dinner along the beachfront of Varenna with majestic views of Lake Como, wine and dine at La Cambusa . You can sit inside, but the outdoor seating provides unrivaled views of the lake, where the sunset will light the sky in shades of orange and purple. You can dig into everything from filling paninis to heart-warming pizzas. While you’re here, try out some of their Italian craft beverages, like a Nazionele yellow beer or Isaac pale yellow Blanche beer.

Expert Tips for Your 3 Days in Milan

• Join a tour – Join this Lake Como day tour to save time and money. It will cover everything necessary for day three, so you don’t have to worry about travel costs or purchasing additional tickets.
• Pack light – This is an enjoyable day trip from Milan, but the last thing you want is to have a heavy bag you need to lug around. Instead, pack light and only bring the essentials, like a good camera and your wallet.
• Try to explore Milan when you get back – Although this is a full-day trip, this is also your last night in Milan. So, if you’re not too tired, try and explore in and around the area you choose to stay. This will most likely be a late-night adventure, depending on when you get back from Lake Como.

READ: Our full guide to the Best day trips from Milan .

Arriving in Milan

When planning your trip to a tee, include what happens once you get to Milan. The city has three airports, but you’ll most likely fly into Malpensa Airport, from which you can take the Malpensa Express to the Milan Central Station. Ticket prices start from €13.You can then catch a taxi to your accommodation or book a transfer directly from the airport with Welcome Pickups or Sun Transfers .

Where to Stay in Milan for Three Days

Seeing as you’ll be visiting the city for three days, the best place to stay in Milan is the Centro Storico district. This is the city’s beating heart and the ideal area to stay for easy access to the top sites. Book your stay at Room Mate Giulia for a reliable and affordable accommodation option.  Or, if you want something more personalized, the Danza di Luce apartment is a great option. 

TIP: Get 5% off your Plum Guide booking with our code ‘Untold5’.

Recommended Milan Tour Companies

You can easily explore the city’s sites alone when you visit Milan. That said, having a guide show you the hidden parts of the city can be beneficial. It’s an added bonus that the travel plans will also be sorted. 

So here are some fantastic tour companies you should consider using when visiting Milan:

• WithLocals is another fantastic tour company that offers unforgettable experiences at an affordable price. Take your pick from the set itineraries, or make your own with the help of a local guide. Their food tours are particularly fantastic > browse tours here
• Liv Tours is a family-run tour company that considers your every need. Although based in Rome, they run tours across the country with groups no larger than six people. You can also get a 5% off your tour with the code ‘UntoldItaly’ > browse tours here
• Take Walks is an ever-reliable tour company that provides well-designed tours for small groups. They offer 24-hour cancellation, and with a maximum of 20 people per group, you’re guaranteed to have an informative and personal experience > browse tours here  

Ready for Your 3 Days in Milan Trip?

Exploring Milan in 3 days is definitely doable. All the city’s main sites are in and around Centro Storico, so walking is the best way to get around. And besides, who doesn’t want to walk the streets of this stylish city?  So with this handy Milano 3-day itinerary, you can enjoy all the pleasures this lovely city offers and more. Now that you know what to do in Milan for 3 days, have a look at this 3 days in Rome itinerary to plan your next Italian vacation.

Planning a trip to Italy?

We love travel in Italy and sharing our knowledge. Read our Italy trip planning guide or join our FREE Italy travel planning community . Our 140,000+ members are happy to answer questions about your itinerary, how to get from place to place, the best places to stay and fun things to do.

Sign up for our news and podcast updates where we share mini guides, tips, exclusive deals and more and we'll send you our Italy Trip Planning Checklist to say grazie ! >> click here to subscribe

Italy City Guides

Latest italy travel podcasts and articles, 3 days in rome: itinerary ideas for visiting the eternal city, best lake como itinerary ideas, best things to do in bari, italy, best things to do in lecce, episode #205: best ever tips for your 2024 italy trip, best italy itinerary ideas to copy for your trip to bella italia, lake como or lake garda, best towns in the dolomites.

Please share if you found this article useful

Getting Around in Milan

Duomo Metro station steps || creative commons photo by Nikos Roussos

Milan is, to my mind, a pretty easy city to navigate – partly because the historic center, where nearly all the tourist attractions are located, is relatively compact and walkable. Having said that, it also has a great network of public transportation options that are easy to make use of if you get tired of walking everywhere or if you want to get outside the area immediately around the Duomo.

Here’s an overview of the modes of public transportation available in Milan.

Tickets for Public Transportation in Milan

As is the case with many other cities, Milan’s public transit methods use the same ticket system, which is hugely convenient. As an aside, the company that operates public transportation in Milan goes by the acronym ATM, so you’ll see that on signs that have to do with transit tickets or transit offices (contrary to what you might think at first, ATM does not indicate a bank machine in Italy).

Each ticket, which can be used on the Metro, tram, and buses in Milan, costs €1.50 and is valid for 90 minutes. You’re allowed to ride as many buses and trams within that 90-minute window as you like. You can also change trains on one Metro journey using one ticket. Once you’ve used a ticket for the Metro, however, you can’t use it for another Metro trip within that 90-minute validity period. You can leave a Metro station and then ride buses and trams for the remainder of the ticket’s usefulness.

If you’re going to be riding Milan’s public transportation more than once or twice, you can get what’s called a “carnet,” which is the equivalent of 10 tickets, for €13.80. Those of you who have been to France may recognize the term “carnet” – it’s borrowed from the French, and is pronounced the same way in Italy: kar|NEH. These can’t be used simultaneously by more than one passenger – so each traveler in your group must have his or her own ticket or carnet.

Other multi-journey tickets you can buy are:

• 24-hour pass – €4.50 – unlimited trips within 24 hours after validation
• 48-hour pass – €8.25 – unlimited trips within 48 hours after validation
• Week pass – €10 – limited to two trips per day within a six-day period (yes, that’s less than a week, I can’t explain it)

Don’t forget that with any ticket, you must validate it upon first use. On the Metro, that means inserting the ticket into the gates in order to get into the station. On trams and buses, that means finding the validation machine on board the bus and stamping your ticket when you get on.

With each of the tickets mentioned so far, children under the age of 10 (up to two per paying adult) are allowed to ride for free. The ATM website also lists something called a “Luggage Ticket,” at €1.50 per piece of luggage, for use on public transit within the city of Milan. I’ve never bought one, but I typically get as far as a train station with my luggage and then take a taxi to my accommodation. If you’re traveling on the Metro, bus, or tram with luggage, it’s probably a good idea to have a Luggage Ticket with you just in case.

Also note that the above prices are only for what are called “Urban Tickets,” which is a geographic designation covering the city center of Milan. If you plan to go to the Rho Fiera trade show fairgrounds area, that’s outside the city center and is therefore a different ticket. Those are “Fiera Milano Tickets,” and those are €5 round-trip or €8 for a one-day pass (good if you plan to go back and forth several times in one day).

In addition to buying tickets in Metro stations – either at ticket windows or automated machines – you can buy ATM tickets at tobacco shops, news stands, and some bars throughout Milan.

This page on the ATM site explains all the ticket options available, as well as how to validate them.

Metro in Milan

Milan Metro || creative commons photo by Matteo Mazziotti

When given the choice, the Metro is always my favorite way of getting around a city. In Milan, that’s no different.

There are four Metro lines in Milan – M1 (red), M2 (green), (M3 (yellow), and M5 (lilac or light gray). Part of the M5 is currently under construction, set to be finished this year, and a fifth line is scheduled to extent to Linate Airport by 2020. The Milan Metro is navigated the same way as the subways in Paris and Washington D.C. (among others), with directions named for the end station on each line. Note that some lines split at a certain point, so pay attention to which train you board if your destination is past the fork in the road.

For whatever reason, the hours when the Metro runs are imprecisely listed on the official ATM website – it actually says that the Metro runs from “about” 06:00 until “about” 00:30 – except on December 25 and May 1, when it operates from 07:00-19:30. Trains typically arrive every 2-8 minutes during peak travel times, a little less frequently later in the evenings and on weekends.

Metro stops in Milan are indicated by big M signs near staircases leading to underground stations, and there are plenty of stops within the historic center – including at the Duomo, Centrale Station, and Cadorna Station.

For a network map of the Metro lines (plus the suburban railways), click on the image icon under the heading “Pictures” on this page . It’s not really large enough to navigate by, however, so I’d suggest picking up a Metro map when you get to Milan – they’re available for free at the ATM Point offices in many major Metro stations.

Buses in Milan

Milan bus || creative commons photo by Ian Fisher

The bus network in Milan is more than 80 lines strong, and it covers ground that the Metro does not. The bus lines have both numbers and names, with the names indicating which direction the bus is traveling (akin to the Metro lines).

Bus stops in Milan tend to consist of no more than a metal pole with a small placard showing numbers for the buses that stop there, as well as a list of stops on each line. The stop at which you are standing is highlighted or outlined, with the stops below being the ones coming up. If your intended destination is above the highlighted name, you need to find the corresponding stop on the opposite side of the street.

Buses will only stop if there are passengers waiting to board (or someone on board who wants to get off), so when you see the bus you want approaching, step toward the curb and put your hand up (like you’re hailing a taxi) – the latter is especially important if there are multiple buses serving one stop, as the driver won’t necessarily know you’re not waiting for a different line. Once on board, indicate you want to get off at the next stop by pushing one of the buttons near your seat.

Buses begin running between 05:30-06:00 and run until between 00:30-01:45, depending on the line. There are some routes which also have night buses, operating from about 02:00 until 06:00 on peak days (usually weekends).

Remember to validate your ticket upon boarding the bus.

Trams in Milan

Historic Milan tram || creative commons photo by Peter Van den Bossche

There are only 17 tram lines in Milan, but they serve some areas that even buses don’t. (And, personally, I just love riding trams, so I try to take them in Milan even when a bus would get me there.) There are some historic trams still in operation from the 1920s, and lots of newer ones. Nostalgia makes me love the old ones – especially the old wooden benches inside – but the newer trams are more spacious and usually better air-conditioned.

Trams and buses are part of the same numbering system, with trams getting the lower numbers and buses getting the higher numbers. There are some exceptions, of course, but generally speaking if you’re looking at a transit map and it says the closest stop to you is numbered 1-33, it’s probably a tram. Line 18 is a notable exception – that’s a bus.

Riders can treat trams as they would buses in a few ways. Trams only stop when there’s someone waiting at a station, or someone on board wants to get off, so to indicate that you want to get on you’ll need to step closer to the curb as the tram approaches or even raise your hand a bit. Also, you need to validate your ticket upon boarding the tram. Once on board, indicate you want to get off by pushing a button or pulling a cord.

It’s also worth noting that there is sometimes a car lane between tram lanes and the sidewalk, so look both ways when disembarking.

Taxis in Milan

Taxis in Milan || creative commons photo by mi chiel

The first thing to know about taking taxis in Milan is that you can’t hail one the way you would in New York City. Taxis aren’t allowed to stop for passengers just anywhere – there are specific taxi stands all over Milan, and you have to go there to get a cab. What’s more, in not-so-busy areas or off-hours, there won’t be a queue of taxis waiting at the stand – there will just be a phone that connects directly to a taxi dispatch service.

For non-Italian speakers, that can be a little intimidating, as can calling a taxi service on your own even if you’re in the comfort of your hotel room. I’d suggest either asking someone at your hotel to arrange a taxi for you, or going to places that are almost always going to have a few taxis waiting for passengers – train stations (Centrale and Cadorna are good options in the city center) or major attractions (such as the Duomo).

Note that taxi fares jump in the evenings and at night – that’s not a driver cheating you, that’s the law. Also note that if you call for a taxi, the meter starts running when the driver leaves to come get you, so you’ll see a charge on the meter even before you get in the car.

The basic safety rules of taxi riding apply in Milan as they would anywhere:

• Make sure there’s a working meter before you get in the car, and make sure the driver is using it.
• Be aware of fixed taxi rates to the airport and other destinations so you know what you’ll be charged.

Find out about more about tipping taxi drivers in Italy

Bike Sharing in Milan

BikeMi station at the Duomo || courtesy of BikeMi

Milan’s bike sharing program, introduced in 2008, is called BikeMi . There are more than 200 stations throughout the city, and although it’s principally used by residents it’s also possible for visitors to use it, too.

You can sign up for the BikeMi program here , with subscriptions ranging from one-day (€2.50), one-week (€6), or one-year (€36). Once you register, you’ll get a user code that you’ll put into the BikeMi self-service station in order to unlock a bike. You can use that bike for up to two hours – the first half-hour is free, and you’ll be charged €0.50 for every half hour after that, up to the two-hour limit. After that, you’ll be charged €2 per hour.

The good news is that you can return the bike to any other BikeMi station in the city – so it’s really easy to stay within the two-hour limit.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Get our Newsletter

Sites i love.

• At Home in Tuscany
• Bleeding Espresso
• Ciao Amalfi
• Cook in Venice
• Dream of Italy
• Driving Like a Maniac
• Italy Beyond the Obvious
• Jessica's Personal Site
• Ms. Adventures in Italy
• My Bella Basilicata
• My Bella Vita
• Napoli Unplugged
• Revealed Rome
• Sacred Destinations in Italy
• The Bittersweet Life Podcast

• My View My View
• Following Following
• Saved Saved

Dalai Lama to visit US for knee treatment this month, his office says

• Medium Text

Sign up here.

Reporting by Shivam Patel in New Delhi and Michael Martina and David Brunnstrom in Washington Editing by Christina Fincher and David Gregorio

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

World Chevron

Israel's Barak quits ICJ panel, citing personal reasons

Aharon Barak, a former president of Israel's Supreme Court, has resigned from his role as ad hoc judge on an International Court of Justice panel weighing a genocide allegation filed over the country's war in Gaza, officials said on Wednesday.

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

The best places in Milan, Italy

Released on 01/07/2021

A Postcard from Naples

W Costa Navarino - New Modern-Luxe In Greece

A Postcard from Florence

Explore this secret foodie corner of Italy with Antonia Klugmann

Tinos: the romantic Greek Island

The ultimate Margherita pizza recipe

How to make the best Negroni

France’s foodiest region, Jura

Experience Valencia Through The Eyes of Locals

How to make kake udon noodles

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Best New Hotel Restaurants in the World

By Todd Plummer and CNT Editors

While we often celebrate our favorite hotels around the world, we rarely spotlight the spaces within the hotel that make the property shine. Often, these are the areas—the bars, the restaurant, the rooftops and more—that become destinations unto themselves, pulling in a devoted set of locals to help turn a hotel into a place that residents use, too. So, as an extension of our recently released 2024 Hot List of the best new hotels in the world, we are highlighting the best new hotel restaurants, spas, and bars, as picked by our editors. Below, the hotel restaurants that compete with the best places to eat, anywhere—and the dishes you can't miss.

Golden Poppy at La Fantaisie—Paris, France

Artistry, whimsy and a distinctly West Coast approach are all on the menu at beloved chef Dominique Crenn’s latest venture at the new La Fantaisie , a jewel-box boutique hotel in the heart of the 9th. The glowing yellow, Scandinavian interiors by Martin Brudnizki feel distinctly un-Parisian which, in a way, is extremely Parisian. The pescatarian menu takes advantage of the region’s best ingredients and techniques for a France-meets-California alchemy that just works.

The dish to order : A dry-aged whole sea bream, served with white asparagus and drizzled in orange beurre blanc.

Seafood takes center stage at Hotel Toranomon Hills' main restaurant, Le Pristine.

A pre-dinner cocktail at Le Pristine

Le Pristine at Hotel Toranomon Hills—Tokyo, Japan

There’s no shortage of chef-driven, acclaimed restaurants at high-end hotels around Tokyo, but this one stands out, thanks to Dutch chef and Michelin darling Sergio Herman. His prix-fixe menu at this minimal space with a beautiful big tiled bar inside Hotel Toranomon Hills , is an East-meets-West approach that makes brilliant use of Japanese ingredients, especially seafood. There are three-, four-, and five-course options available for dinner, or you can order á la carte for one of the better power lunches in Tokyo.

The dish to order : The signature Le Pristine lobster pasta, with handmade orecchiette, clams, squid, and fennel flower.

The Lowland restaurant at The Pinch hotel in Charleston puts an elevated spin on the Southern tavern.

Lowland at The Pinch—Charleston, SC

How many ways can Charleston’s food scene continue to reinvent Southern cuisine, you might ask? Turns out—at least one more, as seen at Lowland Tavern, a nouveau Southern spot from James Beard Award-winner chef Jason Stanhope inside The Pinch , a charming boutique hotel right on King Street. There are still those decadent touches that somehow taste better in a place like this (deviled eggs, biscuits slathered in farmer cheese and pepper jelly), but there are some more elegant and international turns to the menu as well, like chicken skewers dusted in Japanese furikake, or a banoffee pie that would make King Charles himself proud.

The dish to order: An impossibly crispy pork schnitzel, topped with golden beets and smoked roe.

Terrace Restaurant at Izza—Marrakech, Morocco

A 14-room riad in the heart of the Medina , with one of the most elegantly understated roof terraces in town and a killer restaurant, too? Color us interested. Other rooftops in town can feel a little nightclubby or hectic, but the one here is home to a restaurant that offers modern Moroccan fare with international influences—like a whole grilled stuffed sea bass with spiced couscous served in an aromatic langoustine bisque.

The dish to order : Check out the seasonal tagines, of course, but don’t sleep on the vegetables. There’s a charred cauliflower with spiced labneh and toasted buckwheat that’s out of this world.

Local dishes shine at the minimally chic Singular Restaurant at The Lodge in Mallorca

The menu at Singular Restaurant spotlights the island's access to excellent seafood

Singular Restaurant at The Lodge—Mallorca, Spain

On an island that most locals would agree has been transformed by tourism over the last several years, the new Lodge Mallorca offers a slice of tranquil paradise and a glimpse of the way things were. Located on 157 hectares within a UNESCO-protected area of the island, this refurbished 500 year-old farmhouse also offers some of the freshest, most unpretentious Mallorcan cuisine on the island. Pop by after partying in Palma for some pastoral penance and a dinner to remember.

The dish to order: Anything grilled over the open fire, but especially the catch “del día.”

Alfresco dining with a view at Riviera in Dubai's The Lana hotel

Riviera by Jean Imbert at The Lana—Dubai, UAE

Dubai doesn’t do anything small, so it tracks that the Dorchester Collection’s Middle East debut would feature a splashy chef. And who is splashier at this moment than France’s own Jean Imbert? Here, he channels the best of the French Riviera, with grilled seafood galore, a signature tuna tartare prepared at your table, and a goat’s cheese ravioli with zucchini blossoms that is almost too pretty to eat. Kick back, order some rosé, and take in the glittering glitterati as you overlook Dubai’s picturesque Marasi Bay Marina.

The dish to order: The creamy marinated cucumbers with herbs—simple, but so good.

Zaytinya at Ritz-Carlton South Beach—Florida

Following successful locations in New York City and Washington, D.C., James Beard Award-winning chef José Andrés brings his new vision of modern Mediterranean to Collins Avenue . Combining Greek, Lebanese, and Turkish influences, the menu spans shareable mezze, fresh seafood, and plenty of Mediterranean wines to wash it all down.

By Jessica Puckett

By Matt Ortile

By Olivia Morelli

By Alex Van Buren

The dish to order: The perfectly-grilled Octopus Santorini, sprinkled with marinated onions and capers over a dramatic yellow split pea purée.

Nookies, a modern twist on the classic diner, at Silver Sands on New York's North Fork

Nookies has diner staples like burgers and shakes, but also oysters from nearby Pipes Cove

Nookies at Silver Sands Motel & Bungalows—Greenport, New York

A major renovation breathed new life into this iconic 1950’s North Fork motel , and luckily the twenty-two seat Nookies still captures all the nostalgia of a midcentury roadside diner. There’s still a tuna melt and decadent milkshakes on the menu, but there are some welcome additions to appeal to twenty-first century travelers, too.

The dish to order: The aubergine melt, on rye with globs of gruyère cheese, yellow tomato jam and Calabrian chili.

LAVO at The BoTree—London, UK

With locations in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Singapore, and Mexico City, Tao Group’s Lavo manages to feel as fun and relevant as ever with its latest opening at the BoTree in Marylebone. No detail is overlooked, whether it’s a tray of garnishes brought out to accompany your water, to decadent mounds of truffles atop the pasta, to expert sommelier pairings to enhance your experience. It’s one of the neighborhood’s larger dining rooms, but it manages to feel sceney and exuberant without being excessive.

The dish to order: “The Meatball,” which comes with 500 grams of Wagyu beef and Italian pork sausage.

The expansive dining room at the Global Ambassador's rooftop restaurant, Théa, has rare panoramic views of the Phoenix skyline, including vistas of Camelback Mountain and the city's downtown.

Théa at The Global Ambassador—Phoenix, Arizona

Named after the Greek goddess of light, Théa, the standout at a gleaming new resort with a food-focus, offers a truly transporting experience, because, as it turns out, a Mediterranean menu lends itself beautifully to a rooftop setting in sunny Phoenix. The flavors are big, but this bacchanal never skews overly indulgent: the kofta skewers are fragrant with sumac; the Moroccan roasted carrots come drizzled in Aleppo pepper honey; and the “Goddess of all Dips” platter is a perfect shareable platter if you’re looking to kick back with a spritz and watch the sun set.

The dish to order: A fresh and flavorful Spring Tabbouleh salad with pea tendrils, mint, pistachio dukkah, and preserved lemon vinaigrette.

Ethically sourced seafood is a highlight at the restaurant Fysh in The Singapore Edition

Fysh at The Singapore EDITION

“Lofty” is a great way to describe this new restaurant by multi-award-winning Australian chef Josh Niland inside the Singapore Edition . First, the decor: vaulted ceilings lend a sense of occasion, an abundance of greenery feels quintessentially Singaporean, and an expansive open show kitchen proves that cooking, too, can be a form of theater. Second, the menu: Niland offers a “modern-age fish steakhouse,” which treats ethically-sourced seafood with the same sense of scale, indulgence, and reverence as a steakhouse treats its beef. There are some “land-based proteins” on the menu, too, but the real stars are the swordfish and yellowfin tuna steaks, sourced from Mooloolaba, Australia and dry-aged (yes, you can dry-age fish) to perfection.

The dish to order: Murray Cod, sustainably sourced and grilled over charcoal, then finished with an Andean BBQ corn humita, coriander, and lime.

Il Ristorante - Niko Romito at Bulgari Hotel Roma—Italy

This is Rome done right, from the elegant dining room, to the sweeping views over the adjacent Mausoleum of Augustus, to the menu designed by Nico Romito, one of Italy’s superstar chefs. At the restaurant inside this Hot List winner, the menu offers through-and-through Italian classics that range from the familiar (a perfect spaghetti pomodoro) to the innovative (crispy suckling pig with orange caramel sauce). Sure, it will cost you—but can you really put a price tag on a perfect fine dining experience in the Eternal City?

The dish to order: Melt-in-your-mouth roasted tuna belly topped with a light and bright fennel and citrus salad.

Recommended

Six Senses Kyoto

Soneva Secret, Maldives: First In

Asia Travel Guide

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.