How to Plan a Trip to Milan
The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to Italy needs.
Your 4-step Milan plan
Step 1 — Book flights to MXP
Malpensa Airport (MXP) is the main gateway to Milan. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.
See flight deals to MXPStep 2 — Pick a neighborhood
Base yourself in Duomo di Milano + rooftop terraces for the best first-time visit — Italy's largest Gothic cathedral — 135 spires + 3,400 statues.
Where to stay in MilanStep 3 — Plan your itinerary
Start with Duomo di Milano + rooftop terraces, then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of Milan.
Things to do in MilanStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
Malpensa Express train to Milano Centrale is EUR 13 and takes 52 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
MXP arrival guideBefore you book — visa check
Schengen — visa-free for US, UK, Canada, AU, JP, KR + 60 nationalities (90/180). Single Schengen visa covers all 27 countries.