The Best Things To Do in Milan in November

Last updated on February 6th, 2024 at 11:15 pm

Most people know Milan as the fashion capital of the world but there is so much more to see and do in this vibrant city, that often doesn’t involve fashion at all. Don’t let the fact that Milan is often overlooked because of its attention seeking sisters Rome and Sicily, deter you from adding it to your next European itinerary. Milan is the central hub in all of Italy for business, creativity, dining, history, fashion, and much more.

I’ve put together a list of 8 incredible things to do next time you find yourself in the city of Milan 🇮🇹

Keep in mind that this site contains affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. However, this does not impact my honest reviews and comparisons. I only make recommendations based on personal experience(s), in order to help you make the best decisions while traveling!

But First – Why is November a good time to visit Milan?

Great question! For me, it’s simple. Less crowds, cheap airfare, and you can still catch the beginning of the European Christmas markets before the holiday madness.

A List of Top Things to Do in Milan in November

1. Enjoy a calm start to the morning at Marchesi 1824 – My preferred start to any morning in a new city always includes finding a quiet place to enjoy a morning cappuccino and pastry before jumping into the day. Easily known as Milan’s most famous pastry shop and located inside the extravagant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Marchesi 1824 is a wonderful place to sit down, grab a quick bite to eat, and people watch from the second story of the galleria.

2. Dine in truffle heaven at Tartufotto – Calling all foodies! Tartufotto is the #1 place to experience unique Italian truffle dishes that you won’t find anywhere else. They mainly specialize in black & white truffles since Northern Italy is home to some of the rarest (and most expensive) forms of truffle in the world. I highly recommend ordering the Il Tagliolino (pasta dish) and the Tagliere Del Tartufaio (truffle charcuterie board) to start.

3. Climb (or take the elevator) to the top of the Duomo – A top rated tourist attraction that will reward you with spectacular views from the top of the cathedral. Pro tip: SKIP THE LINE by booking a ticket online in advance. 100% worth the extra dollars.

Skip the line by booking your tickets here.

4. Transport yourself into a Wes Andersen film at Bar Luce – Even if you’ve never seen any of Wes Andersen’s symmetrically direct films, you should still make a visit to Bar Luce to enjoy the atmosphere of a classic Milanese bar/cafe. Located conveniently in the art complex of Fondazione Prada, Bar Luce is meant to transport you back to Milan in the 50s/60s in the most aesthetically pleasing way.

5. Learn how to make authentic pasta, ravioli, and tiramisu – Personally, I love taking cooking classes at home and I love them even more when traveling. You can never go wrong with a cooking class and especially not in Italy where you can learn how to make all types of pasta and delicious desserts. It’s the perfect activity for solo travelers, couples, and even families.

Book your next cooking class in Milan here.

6. Savor traditional Italian gelato from Savini – From the same owners as Tartufotto, Savini restaurant exudes old school Italian luxury and charm. It’s prime real estate in the center of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II makes it impossible not to slow down and order a double scoop of Baci (chocolate hazlenut) & Fragola (strawberry) gelato.

7. Take a daytrip to Piemonte (one of Italy’s most famous wine regions) – It’s hard to put into words just how beautiful Northern Italy is. Even during winter when the vines are bare in Langhe, it’s clear to see why the astounding vineyard landscapes are a dedicated UNESCO site. I recommend renting a car (~2hrs) or hiring a personal tour guide to take you through the wineries and fields of Asti, Alba, Barolo, and more.

Book your Northern Italy day tour here.

8. Experience a traditional rooftop Aperitivo at Terrazza12 – Akin to the American version of “happy hour”, an Italian aperitivo is a pre-meal drink designed to “prepare” your stomach (and appetite) for dinner. The Aperol spritz and Negroni are fantastic choices for an Aperitivo drink on the rooftop of Terrazza12, located in the city center.

What was your favorite thing to do in Milan? Let me know in the comments below!

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