How to make the most out of your layover in Milan

Got a layover in Milan? Lucky you! This Italian city has enough charm, history, and good food to turn even a brief stop into a fun experience. From the Piazza del Duomo to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, there’s a mix of culture, art, and luxury waiting to be discovered. If you’re a fashionista looking to enjoy the finest Italian brands or a history lover drawn to the tales of Leonardo da Vinci and the Roman Empire, Milan’s got you covered.

What’s even better is that Milan Malpensa Airport is well-connected to downtown Milan, thanks to the efficient Malpensa Express train. Milan Central Station takes under an hour to reach and is a great starting point for exploring the city. Ready to dive in? Let’s make your layover one for the books!

Things to keep in mind before leaving Malpensa Airport

Before dashing out to catch a glimpse of the Duomo or some authentic Italian food, make sure your layover has enough wiggle room. Factor in time for passport control and security when heading back to catch your next flight. And if you need to drop your luggage, check out Bounce's luggage storage solutions.

Visa requirements in Italy

If you’re an EU citizen or coming from countries like the U.S., Canada, or Australia, you likely don’t need a visa for a short visit. However, if you’re from a non-Schengen area, make sure to check Italy’s visa requirements so your Milan layover is hassle-free.

Minimum layover times in Milan

• Short layover (2–4 hours): If you’ve only got two hours or so, stick around Malpensa Airport. Restaurants offer many options from pasta and pizza to international choices like Burger King and Wagamama. Meal prices typically range from €10 to €20. If you want a lighter bite, the Carrefour grocery store in Terminal 1 has budget-friendly snacks, open all day and night. Also, Club SEA lounges’ entry is about €35–€50, where you can relax with unlimited food, beverages, and WiFi. Some lounges even have showers, perfect for freshening up. To top it off, you can also try some retail therapy—Louis Vuitton and other luxury Italian brands will help you with that.
• In-airport long layover (4–7 hours): Got a few hours? You’re in for a treat. If you’re seeking a moment of peace, the airport chapels guarantee a quiet space for reflection or prayer and are open to all faiths. Traveling with kids? The airport has dedicated children's play areas that can keep young ones entertained while you enjoy some downtime. If a nap is in order, you can find comfortable sleeping pods and areas for rest in the main terminal for around €10–€20 per hour.
• Out-of-airport layover (7+ hours): If you have a long layover, you’re in a perfect spot to explore Milan’s city centre. The Malpensa Express can whisk you to Milan Central Station for a round trip in about an hour total. You can take the train for around €13 one way, which takes about 50 minutes and runs frequently. A taxi is more straightforward but pricier. It costs about €90 and takes roughly an hour. Buses are the budget option at €10–€12 and take 50-70 minutes, depending on traffic. You’ll have enough time to see the Duomo, enjoy great meals, and still return to the airport with time to spare.

What to do in Milan during a layover

Want to make your layover in Milan unforgettable? Drop your bags at a luggage storage spot and set out for the city centre. Many shops and cultural sites have strict rules against carrying oversized items, so using luggage storage solutions will save you from unnecessary stress. You’ll move faster through the narrow streets and have more energy for sightseeing, shopping, and tasting all the amazing food.

Morning layover in Milan

Kick off your day with a visit to Piazza del Duomo. This square is home to Milan’s cathedral, the Duomo di Milano, known for its Gothic architecture and amazing rooftop views. Entry is around €5–€15, depending on whether you want to access the roof. You can grab a classic Italian espresso and a cornetto for breakfast at a nearby café like Marchesi 1824. Prices here range from €5–€10.

Afternoon layover in Milan

If your layover extends into the afternoon, explore Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for some window shopping and people-watching. Feeling fancy? Stop by the Savini Milano for some Italian food. Here, lunch costs around €30–€50.

Next, visit Santa Maria delle Grazie, where you’ll find Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper (make sure to buy tickets in advance). For a more chill afternoon, take a walk through Sforza Castle and its surrounding park.

Evening layover in Milan

If you have an evening layover, check out Corso Sempione for dinner and drinks. Try a classic Milanese dish like risotto alla milanese at a local trattoria for around €15–€25. If you’re up for a bit of nightlife, head to the Navigli district! Visit its canal-side bars and soak up that positive vibe. Drinks usually range from €8–€15.

You can also head up to the rooftop terraces at Terrazza Aperol or Duomo Rooftop for great views across the city while you sip on an aperitivo. Entry fees to rooftops vary, with some places requiring you to buy a drink starting at around €10–€20.

Overnight layover in Milan

For an overnight layover in Milan, check out Ostello Bello Grande, a hostel near Milano Centrale, with dorm prices starting around €30 per night. It’s perfect for meeting travelers and making some new friends. For a convenient stay near Malpensa Airport, try Moxy Milan Malpensa. Rooms start at around €100 in this hotel.

If you’re up for nightlife, head to Tunnel Club near Porta Garibaldi for a mix of electronic and techno music. Entry fees typically range from €15–€30, and most venues have an age restriction of 18+. This is a great spot to experience Milan’s late-night scene before catching your next flight.

Tips to make the most out of your time in Milan

• Currency: Italy uses the euro (€). Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but carrying some cash is helpful.
• Language: Italian is the main language, but many people speak English, especially in tourist areas.
• Weather: Summers can hit 30C (86F), while winters hover around 5C–10C (41F–50F). So, pack accordingly!
• Budget: Expect to spend around €50–€100 for a day covering meals, public transport, and sightseeing. Accommodation ranges from €30 for hostels to over €150 for hotels.
• Transport: The Malpensa Express is your best bet for quick trips to the city centre. Metro and buses are reliable for getting around.
• Safety: Milan is generally safe, but watch out for pickpockets, especially around train stations and popular tourist attractions.

Remember, storing your bags in luggage storage can make your visit so much easier. Luggage storage solutions are a lifesaver for all kinds of travelers. Having a place to safely stash your bags means you can wander Milan's streets without the additional weight. So, make the most of your layover in Milan and enjoy every bite, step, and photo-op!