Whether you are in Milan for business or leisure, here are some ideas if you only have a 3-hour stop in the Italian financial capital.
The Cathedral
Grab a taxi or the subway (line 1-red or 3-yellow) and head to Piazza Duomo. You cannot say “been there, done that” in Milan if you do not take a selfie in front of the famous gothic Cathedral dedicated to the Nativity of St Mary. 3 hours in Milan
Have a walk around the Cathedral to admire architecture and decorations. You can also enter and visit the Cathedral or reach the top roof to enjoy a marvelous view of the city. Opening hours and tickets can be checked here. Consider a good hour or two, if you decide to visit it.
The gallery Vittorio Emanuele II
Watching the Cathedral, on the left side you will see Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This is considered as one of the first shopping centre in the world. Here you will find amazing cafeterias and shops, and, on the other side, Piazza della Scala. In this square there is the famous Teatro alla Scala, that can be perfect if you can spend here the night. Check for show and tickets on their website.
How about some shopping?
In front of Piazza Duomo, you can also reach Via dei Mercanti, close to Piazza dei Mercanti. The latter was the square of the merchants, which dates back to the Medieval period. The street is car free and allows you to reach Piazza Cordusio. Once the financial centre of the city, this is now a bustling square with shops, restaurants and cafes.
Here you will find the new Starbucks roastery, a unique cafeteria where American coffee is paired with top quality Italian delicacies.
The Sforzesco Castle
If you continue for Corso Dante, you will reach Castello Sforzesco. This fortress dates back to the 15th century and was built by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan. If the day is sunny and warm, you can enjoy a sandwich in the green spot that surrounds the fortress. And if you have more time, you can also visit it. You will enjoy its architecture, temporary exhibitions as well as a nice Museum of musical instruments.
In Milan you can wander among ancient palaces and beautiful reminiscences of past times. Or you can decide to stop in the many designer shops for some good shopping. The only thing to consider is your spending capability. Even if you will find plenty of low coast international brands, will you be able to resist to the Italian haute couture?
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