72 Hours in Milan with Kids

Known for centuries as the fashion capital of the world, Milan is also famous for art and, of course, football (soccer). Although it isn’t often counted among the most kid-friendly of Italian destinations, it has all of the makings of a memorable family city break during your Italy trip, with a lively combination of history and culture plus easy access to nearby airports. 

A short stay in Milan pairs well with a visit to the Piemonte or the Lakes Region, both of which are close enough to work into your Italy vacation. Here’s our suggested three-day itinerary, complete with must-see sights and a few “choose your own adventure” activities to pick from based on what interests those in your group. 

Best Things to Do in Milan with Kids

Day 1: Duomo, Window-Shopping, La Scala

Start your Milan adventure at the magnificent Duomo, one of the largest churches in the world. This Gothic masterpiece took nearly six centuries to complete and features over 3,400 statues adorning its intricate façade. The interior is equally impressive with 52 massive pillars and stunning stained-glass windows dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries. 

Entrance to the cathedral itself is free, but there is a fee if you want to climb the 251 steps to the roof or take the elevator. The rooftop experience is well worth it for breathtaking views of the city and an up-close look at the forest of spires and sculptures.

Remember that guards monitor for appropriate dress — shoulders and knees must be covered. Bring light scarves for the family in summer to cover up quickly before entering. 

When to go: Arrive early (before 10 am) to beat the crowds, especially during summer months. 

After your Duomo visit, head around the corner to Santa Maria presso San Satiro. This intimate church showcases architect Bramante’s revolutionary trompe l’oeil effect—an optical illusion that makes the shallow choir appear much deeper than its actual 97 centimeters. It’s a quick 15-minute visit that will amaze both adults and children with this Renaissance “magic trick.” 

For lunch, join the locals at Luini (Via Santa Radegonda, 16) for their famous panzerotti, a specialty of fried pastry filled with tomato and oozing mozzarella that kids invariably love. This beloved institution often has lines out the door, but they move quickly. Beyond the classic version, try variations with prosciutto, spinach or sweet fillings. 

In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the magnificent Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the oldest shopping arcade in the world and certainly one of the most glamorous. Built between 1865 and 1877, this cross-shaped, glass-domed galleria houses luxury boutiques like Prada, Louis Vuitton and Gucci. Don’t miss the mosaic bull in the floor in the central dome — local tradition says spinning three times on your heel on a certain part of his anatomy brings good luck. Get ready for a lot of giggles as your kids partake in this ritual while parents appreciate the stunning architecture. 

For a sweet treat, stop at Cioccolatitaliani near the Galleria for gelato that locals rave about. Their signature touch is warm, liquid chocolate poured into the bottom of your cone before adding your chosen gelato flavors on top. 

Round out the day with a visit to Teatro alla Scala (La Scala), Milan’s famed opera house dating back to 1778. Located just north of the Duomo, this world-renowned venue offers guided tours that take you behind the scenes. For a more immersive experience, check the calendar for children’s opera performances or family concerts, with reduced pricing for children. La Scala regularly offers their “La Scala for Families” program with specially adapted 60- to 90-minute performances perfect for young attention spans. 

For dinner, try Pizzeria Spontini (Via Santa Radegonda, 13) near the Duomo for thick-slice Milanese-style pizza that’s been a local favorite since 1953. 

Day 2: Pick Your Passion

For your second day, choose an itinerary based on what appeals most to your family’s interests: 

For Art Lovers: 

If seeing Da Vinci’s The Last Supper is on your bucket list, plan ahead: This is one of the most restricted art viewings in the world. Located in the refectory of the Basilica Santa Maria delle Grazie, visits are limited to 15 minutes with only 30 people allowed at a time. Tickets must be booked well in advance (typically at least two months) through the official website or through select tour operators. 

For lunch, try Il Salumaio di Montenapoleone (Via Santo Spirito, 10) in the fashion district for excellent pasta and a chance to people-watch. While not inexpensive, their children’s pasta options are freshly made and simply prepared. 

For Football (Soccer) Fanatics: 

Milan is home to two storied football clubs, AC Milan and FC Inter, both playing at the legendary San Siro Stadium (officially Stadio Giuseppe Meazza). The stadium tour offers access to the dressing rooms, press area, stands and even a walk through the player tunnel onto the pitch. The attached museum showcases trophies, historic jerseys and interactive exhibits that tell the story of both clubs. 

The stadium often features interactive zones where kids can test their skills with ball control challenges and virtual penalty shootouts, though exhibits are regularly updated and changed. 

Interested in going to a match? Tickets usually go on sale two weeks beforehand, and advance purchase is highly recommended. You can buy tickets online through the official club website or through Vivaticket. If you are looking for same-day tickets, you can buy them at the Casa Milan ticket office.  

For Fashion Enthusiasts: 

If you have fashion-loving teens, consider a 30-minute trip outside the center of Milan to the Dolce & Gabbana outlet in Legnano, where discounts range from 30 to 70 percent off retail prices. Alternatively, visit DMagazine Outlet (Via Manzoni, 21) in the city center for multi-brand luxury bargains. 

More centrally located, Palazzo Morandi (Via Sant’Andrea, 6) showcases the former Museum of Milan fashion collection in a Renaissance building once home to noble families. The collection traces Milan’s emergence as a fashion capital through historic garments and accessories. 

Fashion enthusiasts shouldn’t miss Armani Silos (Via Bergognone, 40), a museum dedicated to Giorgio Armani’s 40-plus years of fashion design. Spanning four floors and 4,500 square meters, it displays more than 600 outfits and 200 accessories from 1980 to present. Guided tours are available on weekends, but check the website in advance as schedules change seasonally. Double check opening times, as Armani Silos will close when it is switching out exhibitions.  

For a fashion-forward lunch, try God Save the Food (Via Tortona, 34) near Armani Silos, a trendy spot with healthy options and a kids’ menu. 

Day 3: Castello Sforzesco, Brera Neighborhood

Begin your final day at Castello Sforzesco, the impressive renaissance fortress that once housed Milan’s ruling family. The first castle on this site was built in the 1300s, but the current version was commissioned by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan, in the 15th century. Today, the castle houses several museums and art collections, including Michelangelo’s final and uncompleted sculpture, the Pietà Rondanini, and rooms with frescoes by Leonardo da Vinci. 

The castle museums are divided into specialized collections including ancient art, musical instruments, Egyptian antiquities and more. Many of these collections offer family-oriented tours and activities that change seasonally. 

After exploring the castle, spend time in the massive green spaces of Parco Sempione, Milan’s central park, spanning 116 acres. Active children will enjoy the large playground areas or may want to burn off energy on the track at Arena Civica, a sporting arena built in 1807 that’s open daily to the public. The park also features a small lake, various walking paths and plenty of space for a picnic lunch. 

Don’t miss the Arco della Pace (Arch of Peace) at the northern end of the park, a neoclassical marble arch topped with dramatic bronze winged chariots. Originally commissioned by Napoleon in 1807 to celebrate his victories, it wasn’t completed until 1838. It makes for great family photos with its impressive scale and detailed sculptures. 

For lunch, try the family-friendly Caffè Triennale (Viale Emilio Alemagna, 6) inside the park at the Triennale Design Museum, which offers a children’s menu and outdoor seating with park views. 

In the afternoon, explore the adjacent Brera neighborhood, known as the fashion and design center of Milan. With its narrow, cobblestone streets and artsy atmosphere, Brera offers a different pace from the grand monuments of previous days. This bustling district is full of restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries. 

Visit the Pinacoteca di Brera (Brera Art Gallery), one of Italy’s most important art museums, housing works by Raphael, Caravaggio and Mantegna. While not typically considered a children’s museum, they offer family-focused guided tours on weekends that make the art accessible to younger visitors. 

The district is also home to the Orto Botanico di Brera (Botanical Gardens), a peaceful green space dating back to 1774 where children can explore different plant species. Entrance is free, making it a perfect afternoon break. 

While shopping in Brera, keep an eye out for the hip, design-forward 10 Corso Como, a concept store combining a bookshop, café, gallery and garden started by former Vogue Italia editor Franca Sozzani. While the merchandise may be beyond most budgets, it’s worth visiting just to experience the innovative space. 

For your final dinner in Milan, try Nabucco (Via Fiori Chiari, 10) in Brera, a family-friendly trattoria serving traditional Milanese cuisine, including the city’s signature saffron risotto and cotoletta alla Milanese (similar to a schnitzel). Children’s portions are available upon request. 

Planning Tips

• Closures: Many attractions and restaurants in Milan are closed on Mondays rather than Sundays, contrary to many other Italian cities. The Last Supper is closed on Mondays, while most museums and the Duomo are open daily. 
• Transportation: Milan has an excellent public transportation system with a comprehensive metro, tram and bus network. Consider purchasing a multi-day urban transport pass for unlimited travel. Children under 10 typically ride free when accompanied by a paying adult.
• Strollers: Most metro stations in central Milan have elevators or escalators, though some older stations may only have stairs. Consider bringing a lightweight, collapsible stroller rather than a bulky one for navigating narrow streets in historic areas. 
• Weather: Milan can be extremely hot in summer (July-August) with temperatures regularly above 30°C/86°F. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer more comfortable temperatures for sightseeing, but you will also get more rain. 
• Family-Friendly Accommodations: Areas near Parco Sempione or Porta Venezia tend to be good for families, offering green spaces in a central location for sightseeing. Many hotels have family rooms or connecting options specifically designed for parents traveling with children. The Ciao Bambino Travel Advisor team can help you book the ideal Milan hotel for your needs — find out more and send a request.
• Seasonal Events: Plan around family-friendly festivals like Easter celebrations in spring, “Estate Sforzesca” performances in summer, BookCity events in fall and Christmas markets in winter. Italian school holidays (Christmas, Easter and mid-June to mid-September) bring larger crowds to attractions.
• Rainy Day Options: Be prepared with indoor alternatives like MUBA Children’s Museum, Leonardo3 Museum (featuring Da Vinci’s inventions), the Natural History Museum or the Acquario Civico. Many of Milan’s shopping galleries also provide excellent shelter during bad weather. 

With its perfect blend of history, culture and modern attractions, Milan offers families a metropolitan Italian experience that goes well beyond fashion. Start planning your own three-day itinerary that gives you a taste of the city’s highlights while allowing flexibility to tailor the experience to your family’s interests. 

Relevant Links:

Browse all family-friendly accommodations and activities in Italy on Ciao Bambino

Palazzo Parigi: A grand home base for families in Milan’s Artistic District

52 things to know before traveling to Italy with kids

10 tips for travel to Italy with kids

A perfect week on Lake Como for families

Top tips for visiting Italy’s Lake Como with kids

Italy off the beaten path: Stunning scenery and laid-back charm in the Piemonte

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.