Two days in Milan gives you just enough time to take in its mix of history, art, and modern style. From Gothic cathedrals and Renaissance masterpieces to fashion-forward streets and lively piazzas, this itinerary covers the must-sees, without rushing past the good stuff.

Snapshot: Milan 2-Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Historic Highlights & Aperitivo

• Day 2: Art, Parks & Design Streets

For South African Travellers

Flights
Use → Google Flights to compare direct and one-stop routes from South Africa to Milan (MXP or LIN).

Accommodation
Looking for a local feel? Try → Airbnb. On a budget? Check deals on → Hotels.com.

Transport
Use Rome2Rio for metro, tram, or walking options around the city. For detailed local transit info including offline metro maps, use → Citymapper.

Trains
Heading to Florence, Venice, or Rome after Milan? Book high-speed train tickets in advance on → Trenitalia.

Tickets
Secure popular attractions early on → GetYourGuide Milan- perfect for skip-the-line access to the Duomo rooftop, The Last Supper, or guided walking tours.

Weather
Check → Windy.com before packing- spring and autumn are mild, while summer can be hot and humid.

Connectivity
Grab a SIM at the airport or go digital with → SimOptions eSIM.

Currency
Use XE Currency for live rates. Pay with a → Wise or → Revolut card to avoid extra fees.

Visa
South Africans need a Schengen visa to enter Italy.

Day 1: History & Aperitivo

Morning:
Start at the Duomo di Milano. Get there early and book a ticket that includes rooftop access-the views over the city are worth it. Snap a photo in front of the cathedral’s Gothic facade.

Midday:
Walk through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a 19th-century shopping arcade filled with designer boutiques and stunning architecture. Grab a coffee at Camparino in Galleria, one of Milan’s most iconic cafes.

Afternoon:
Head to Santa Maria delle Grazie to see The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci. You’ll need to book this weeks in advance. Afterward, stroll around the nearby Corso Magenta for lunch-try a panzerotto or risotto alla Milanese.

Evening:
Experience Milan’s aperitivo culture in the Navigli District. Along the canals, you’ll find lively bars offering early evening drinks and complimentary snacks. Try Mag Cafè or Rita.

Day 2: Art, Parks & Design Streets

Morning:
Visit Sforzesco Castle and walk into Parco Sempione, a huge green space perfect for a slow morning. You can also stop at the Triennale Design Museum if you love modern design.

Midday:
Lunch near Brera-this artsy district has charming streets and stylish spots like Obicà Mozzarella Bar or Risoelatte for retro vibes.

Afternoon:
Spend time in Brera Art Gallery (Pinacoteca di Brera), home to Renaissance works and Italian masters. Then browse nearby boutiques and bookstores.

Evening:
End your trip with one last espresso and people-watching in Piazza del Duomo or have dinner at Eataly Milano Smeraldo-a modern market-style venue with great local food.

Packing List

• Smart casual outfit for dinners

• Modest outfit for visiting churches

• Comfortable shoes for walking

• Sunglasses & sunscreen in summer

• Portable charger

• Copy of visa & travel insurance

🧳 The MILAN Luggage Set

We used the MILAN 6-Piece Set from Eco Lifestyle for this city break—perfect for trains, tight hotel lifts, and stylish streets.

Why Travelers Like It

• Anti-theft YKK zippers for extra security

• Built-in TSA lock for airport checks

• USB ports to charge on the go

• 360° spinner wheels for smooth rolling

What’s Inside:

• 2 Cosmetic Cases (25cm + 35cm)

• 4 Suitcases (45cm, 55cm, 65cm, 75cm)

It’s great for short trips, long ones, or sharing pieces with a travel buddy. We packed the smaller bags for 2 days in Milan and still had space to spare.

See the MILAN Set →

FAQs

When is the best time to visit Milan?
Late spring and early autumn for cooler weather and fewer crowds.

Is Milan expensive?
It can be-but you can save by choosing local cafes and walking between sights.

Do I need to book The Last Supper in advance?
Yes. Book as early as possible—it’s one of the most in-demand art experiences in Europe.

Can I get around Milan without speaking Italian?
Yes. Many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.

How much should I budget for 2 days?
€150–€250 depending on where you stay and how you dine.

Whether you're in it for the fashion, the history, or the perfect negroni, two days in Milan is enough to catch the city's rhythm. Walk slow, eat well, and pack light. Milan knows how to make an impression.