Milan at a Glance – An overview of what to expect

Milan is one of the most travelled cities in Europe and a magnificent destination. You can spend hours or days getting lost here. Milan at a glance sets out an outline of what to expect on your first visit.

Milan at a Glance

Milan is a beautiful city with many highlights. From the cobblestones of Brera to the skyscrapers of Porta Nuova to the historic Gothic architecture of the Duomo and the castles that tells the stories of Milan’s past. It is easy to get around, no matter where you are in the city and can easily getaway to other cities such as the picturesque Cinque Terre, the City of canals or the enchanting lakes of Italy. So, if you are planning a visit to this fabulous City of fashion, here’s what you can expect and need to know:

1 | Legal Entry to Italy – Visa

Italy is part of the common travel area known as the Schengen Zone. This means that if you are a national of EU/EEA, you can travel to Italy with just an Identification Card. However, if you are non EU/EEA, you will be required to present the following as a minimum at the port of entry to Italy:

i | A valid passport or travel document.

Your passport or travel must be valid for at least three months beyond the date of your planned exit from the Schengen Area.

The passport or travel document must be issued in the last 10 years.

ii | A Visa

If you are a national of a country that is subject to the Italy’s visa regime.

iii | Additional information

At border control, you may be asked about your purpose of visit, how long you intend to stay and your financial means during your trip.

iv | Entry stamp

Ensure your passport is stamped by the border control officers so that you could move freely within the Schengen Area. Without a stamp, you could be fined or detained.

**EU – European Union | EEA – European Economic Area

***British passport holders are exempt from the criteria of passport validity and issuance date.

Recommended read: Italy Tourist Travel Visa – A Simple Overview

2 | Language

The official language spoken in Milan is Italian but the majority of Milanese speak Milanese. Milanese is a dialect of Italian’s commonly spoken in the Lombardy region.

3 | Currency

The currency in Italy is the Euro (€) and was introduced in 1999. Euro is the only form of legal tender in the country. It’s predecessor, the Lira was taken out of circulation in 2002.

*1 Euro equals 0.85 Pound sterling (August 10, 2021)

4 | Credit Cards and ATMs

In Milan, there are no problems in finding ATMs or cash machines that accepts foreign credit cards or bank debit cards. Most shops, restaurants and tour operators will also take credit cards as a form of payment. You only really need cash for small purchases like metro tickets, bottles of water, coffee, gelato and small souvenirs.

5 | Power plugs

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The plugs and sockets in Italy are type F and L. The standard voltage is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz.

I recommend that you purchase a worldwide universal travel adapter which you could use in any European countries.

6 | WiFi

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WiFi is usually available at the hotels and the high-rated restaurants but there may be a need to have WiFi at all times (like me). If you are in Italy for a short visit, I recommend subscribing to Unlimited Portable Pocket Wifi (my favourite and a must have) when travelling to Milan or wider Italy/Europe. Works out much cheaper than roaming charges by a mobile carrier.

7 | Safety 

While Milan is generally a safe place to be, you may want to keep a close eye on your belongings. There are always that elements of pickpockets and theft.

8 | Getting around

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Milan has an awesome transport system that connects all the landmarks so it is easy to navigate. You could literally get around Milan like a local!  As well, if you are up for an adventure, try train travelling in Italy. I loved travelling to other cities on day trips by train. The countryside is beautiful and Italy has excellent high-speed routes. Have a look at this page

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9 | Activities to do in Milan

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Milan is the centre for fashion in Europe! A global centre for centuries of art and architecture as well. An undeniable testament to the centuries of art and architecture is Leonardo da Vinci’s mural, “The Last Supper” at Santa Maria delle Grazie that attracts millions of visitors a year. The architecture of the world renowned Duomo spans almost 600 years and some say work is still ongoing! Sitting next door to the Duomo is the Milanese Drawing Room which is a must visit for all high-end shopper enthusiasts. Take shopping to a whole new level and explore the quaint and chic fashion boutiques that lines the narrow cobblestone-streets of Milan.

In short, Milan is a city that has so very much to offer its visitors that even a few days may not be enough to soak-up the Milanese culture. Read through the following articles for some ideas on activities to do in Milan.

Best of Milan – Sunset over the City from the rooftop of the Duomo

How to make the best of one day in Milan

The best to look out for when visiting the Milan Cathedral

Milan bucket list – 19 ideas

Tip: Discover Milan with a 48-hour City Card

10 | Resources to support your travel plans

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I hope this overview has given you a taster of what to expect when visiting Italy. Browse through all related articles so you can make an informed decision and know before you go. Milan is a fabulous city and one not to miss on your travel bucket list.

If this article added value to your search in planning your travels to Italy, perhaps you would also consider using the links embedded here and in related articles to reserve/book your flights, train travels, accommodations and activities to do. TTS earns a commission from qualifying stays and purchases at no cost to you at all. As always, we appreciate your support and thank you in advance for your custom.

Have a splendid time discovering Milan.

Georgina

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