When people think of Italy, they dream of the renaissance charm: cobblestone roads and wooden shutters on sunset-colored buildings. For this reason, industrial Milan is often seen as a simply place to pass through on the journey to more romantic Italian locations. However, this fantastic blend of Italian charm, urban excitement, fashion, and art make Milan one of the most enthralling cities in Italy.

Milan is an exciting and ever-developing city with new wonders around every corner. For long-term stays in Milan the best way to explore is city is to do just that: explore. Visit a new gelato shop everyday, hop off the metro at that stop with the name you've been struggling to pronounce, and wander into the cafe with outdoor seating straight from a movie set. But if you're only passing through Milan and want to make the most out of the short time you have there, here's how you should spend that day:

1. HAVE AN ESPRESSO AT UPCYCLE BIKE CAFE

Grab your morning caffe and brunch at the modern and open cafe/bike shop Upcycle, just a few blocks from the Piola stop on the green line (and while you’re in the Piola station pick up a brioche from the little shop inside, they're to die for).

2. STROLL AROUND THE DUOMO AND GALLERIA

After breakfast, hop on the metro and make your way to the Duomo stop. Take in the pure beauty of the Duomo square and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Give yourself plenty of time to wander the surrounding streets and do some serious shopping!

3. GRAB A PIZZA AT GINO SORBILLO

Wander on behind the Duomo and stop at Gino SorbIllo for the best pizza in Milan! You’ll be extremely thankful that it’s socially acceptable to eat an entire pizza by yourself in Italy.

4. BRERA & GARIBALDI

For your daily dose of classic Italian charm, take the afternoon to stroll around the beautiful Brera arts district. Then head over to Garibaldi for the more modern scene in the city. If you thought you were full from lunch, pop into the famous Eataly (it's like a theme park for food) and your stomach will start growling all over again.

5. HAVE APERITIVO IN NAVIGLI

Jump on the metro and find your way to Potra Genova. Wander the streets, explore the shops, and appreciate the wonders of aperitivo. Enjoy drinks, company, and light hors d’oeuvres at one of the many bars and cafes around the beautiful canals.

6. HIT THE CLUBS LIKE A FASHION WEEK CELEBRITY

If you find yourself wanting to continue the night after your aperitivo, Milano has a thriving night life with plenty of options from sleek Old Fashion to wild Alcatraz. Different events happen on different days of the week, so check a schedule to see what's happening on your night in Milan.

A Day in Milan