
April 20, 2023
Last updated on April 25th, 2026 at 03:21 pm
Most people know Milan as the fashion capital of the world, but there’s so much more to see and do in this vibrant city that has nothing to do with fashion. In fact, once you start digging into the top things to do in Milan in November, you’ll realize just how underrated it really is.
Don’t let Milan get overshadowed by its more attention-seeking sisters like Rome and Sicily. The top things to do in Milan in November go far beyond shopping, with a mix of history, incredible dining, art, and culture that makes it a must-add to your next European itinerary. Milan is truly the central hub of Italy for business, creativity, food, and design, and November gives you a quieter, more local feel of the city.
I’ve rounded up the top things to do in Milan in November so you can make the most of your visit the next time you find yourself in this incredible city!

Read more on Milan and Italy 🇮🇹
This site contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them (which will likely go towards overpriced airport wine or buying my dog more unnecessary toys). However, none of that impacts the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Milan is far more than a runway. It is Italy’s financial and creative powerhouse, home to world-class art, Renaissance architecture, a legendary food scene, and some of the most elegant boutiques and design studios in Europe. The city sits in the Lombardy region of northern Italy and serves as a gateway to the Italian Alps, the lakes district, and Piedmont wine country. Whether you come for the art, the aperitivo culture, or the architecture, Milan consistently delivers a richer experience than most visitors expect.
November is genuinely one of the best months to visit Milan, and it is consistently underrated by travelers who default to spring and summer. Here is why it deserves a spot on your radar.
From slow mornings in the galleria to truffle dinners and rooftop aperitivos, Milan in November offers a pace and depth that is hard to find in peak season. These are the experiences I keep coming back for, and the ones I recommend to every traveler who asks where to start.


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.

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.

Yes, it’s touristy. And yes, you still need to do it.
The rooftop of Duomo di Milano is easily one of the coolest viewpoints in the city, but what makes it special isn’t just the view. You’re literally walking among the cathedral’s intricate spires and statues, all carved out of white marble. It feels less like a viewpoint and more like stepping onto the set of a gothic fantasy.
If you’re up for it, take the stairs. It’s a bit of a climb, but nothing too intense, and you’ll feel slightly more accomplished when you get to the top. If not, there’s an elevator option that gets you up there in seconds, no shame.
Pro tip: SKIP THE LINE by booking a ticket online in advance. I promise it’s 100% worth the extra doll-hairs.


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.


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. Last time I visited Milan in November, my cousin and I signed up for a pizza, pasta, and gelato making class and it was sooo much fun!
The class even came with a free glass of wine which ended up being two free glasses for me since my cousin wasn’t old enough to drink. (Although he probably could’ve because hey, it’s Europe).
But seriously, a cooking class in Milan is the perfect activity for everyone including solo travelers, couples, families, etc.

Some of you might know how much I loooove California wine country (since it’s basically in my backyard) so It’s hard to put into words just how beautiful Northern Italy wine country 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.
A visit to Piemonte in November is one of the easiest day trips you can do from Milan, which is why it made my full roundup of the best scenic day trips from Milan (along with Lake Como, Cinque Terre, and even a sneaky cross-border one into Switzerland).
If Italian wine country is calling your name, head over to my full guide here →

If you’re visiting Milan in November or during the colder months, QC Termemilano in Porta Romana is hands-down the perfect winter activity.
There’s something next-level about stepping out of the chilly Milanese air and into steamy thermal baths, saunas, and steam rooms tucked inside a historic tram depot.
Don’t miss the viral rainstorm room – a dimly lit space with rolling thunder, flashes of lightning, and warm tropical rain that feels especially magical when it’s freezing outside.
Book the evening admission and you’ll also get an aperitivo buffet with snacks, sweet treats, and a glass of champagne to round out the coziest day ever.


The Pinacoteca di Brera is one of Italy’s greatest art museums and it sits inside one of Milan’s most beautiful neighborhoods. November is the perfect month to go – no lines, no heat, and the cobblestone streets of the Brera district feel like a different era entirely.
Pair the gallery visit with a wander through the neighborhood’s independent bookshops and wine bars.

I knooooow it’s winter but having gelato in Italy is an everyday thing. No matter how cold it is.
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.
November in Milan is all about layering. The city tends to be gray and damp, with chilly mornings that warm up a bit in the afternoon.
A waterproof jacket or trench coat is a must since rain is pretty common, and the fog can leave everything feeling damp. Bring comfortable walking shoes with good traction because the cobblestones around the Duomo and the Navigli can get slippery when wet.
Pack at least one dressier outfit if you’re planning to go out to dinner or catch a show. Milanese style is polished, even by Italian standards.
A scarf is both practical and an easy way to blend in with locals, and a small crossbody bag keeps your hands free for navigating cobblestones and holding your cappuccino.
Milan has one of the most efficient public transport networks in Italy, making it easy to navigate without a car.
Planning a trip to Milan in November comes with a lot of questions about the weather, big events, etc. So here are a few commonly asked questions about visiting Milan in November 👇
Yes. November is one of the best times to visit Milan if you want fewer crowds, lower prices, and a more local feel. The cooler weather is very manageable with the right clothing, and the early Christmas markets add a festive energy to the city from late November onward.
Expect temperatures between 7 and 13 degrees Celsius (45 to 55 F). November is one of Milan’s wetter months with overcast skies and occasional morning fog. Rain is possible but rarely heavy or persistent. Layering and a waterproof jacket will keep you comfortable throughout the trip.
November is a surprisingly lively month for events in Milan. The Christmas markets (Mercato di Natale) around Piazza Duomo and Castello Sforzesco typically open in late November, drawing locals and visitors alike for mulled wine, artisan gifts, and festive food. Arte Fiera and various gallery openings take place throughout the autumn season, and Fondazione Prada often hosts major exhibitions that run into the winter. La Scala opera season also opens in early December, so November is a great time to book tickets for one of the most celebrated opera houses in the world. Check the city’s official calendar closer to your travel dates, as programming changes annually.
Yes, absolutely. Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper (Il Cenacolo) at Santa Maria delle Grazie sells out weeks, and sometimes months, in advance. Book your ticket as early as possible through the official website. This applies year-round, including November.
Completely. Milan has world-class art museums, incredible food, stunning architecture, lively neighborhoods, one of the best aperitivo cultures in Italy, and easy access to some of the most beautiful countryside in Europe. Fashion is just one layer of a very deep city.
What was your favorite thing to do in Milan? Let me know in the comments below!
Check out this perfect Milan 3-day itinerary for first timers.
Don’t miss where to stay in Milan: top neighborhoods for first-time visitors.
Check out these 6 beautiful day trips that are a breeze to plan.
Check out my other travel guides on Italy here.
Check out my other travel guides on Europe here.
April 20, 2023
Last updated on April 25th, 2026 at 03:21 pm
Most people know Milan as the fashion capital of the world, but there’s so much more to see and do in this vibrant city that has nothing to do with fashion. In fact, once you start digging into the top things to do in Milan in November, you’ll realize just how underrated it really is.
Don’t let Milan get overshadowed by its more attention-seeking sisters like Rome and Sicily. The top things to do in Milan in November go far beyond shopping, with a mix of history, incredible dining, art, and culture that makes it a must-add to your next European itinerary. Milan is truly the central hub of Italy for business, creativity, food, and design, and November gives you a quieter, more local feel of the city.
I’ve rounded up the top things to do in Milan in November so you can make the most of your visit the next time you find yourself in this incredible city!

Read more on Milan and Italy 🇮🇹
This site contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them (which will likely go towards overpriced airport wine or buying my dog more unnecessary toys). However, none of that impacts the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Milan is far more than a runway. It is Italy’s financial and creative powerhouse, home to world-class art, Renaissance architecture, a legendary food scene, and some of the most elegant boutiques and design studios in Europe. The city sits in the Lombardy region of northern Italy and serves as a gateway to the Italian Alps, the lakes district, and Piedmont wine country. Whether you come for the art, the aperitivo culture, or the architecture, Milan consistently delivers a richer experience than most visitors expect.
November is genuinely one of the best months to visit Milan, and it is consistently underrated by travelers who default to spring and summer. Here is why it deserves a spot on your radar.
From slow mornings in the galleria to truffle dinners and rooftop aperitivos, Milan in November offers a pace and depth that is hard to find in peak season. These are the experiences I keep coming back for, and the ones I recommend to every traveler who asks where to start.


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.

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.

Yes, it’s touristy. And yes, you still need to do it.
The rooftop of Duomo di Milano is easily one of the coolest viewpoints in the city, but what makes it special isn’t just the view. You’re literally walking among the cathedral’s intricate spires and statues, all carved out of white marble. It feels less like a viewpoint and more like stepping onto the set of a gothic fantasy.
If you’re up for it, take the stairs. It’s a bit of a climb, but nothing too intense, and you’ll feel slightly more accomplished when you get to the top. If not, there’s an elevator option that gets you up there in seconds, no shame.
Pro tip: SKIP THE LINE by booking a ticket online in advance. I promise it’s 100% worth the extra doll-hairs.


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.


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. Last time I visited Milan in November, my cousin and I signed up for a pizza, pasta, and gelato making class and it was sooo much fun!
The class even came with a free glass of wine which ended up being two free glasses for me since my cousin wasn’t old enough to drink. (Although he probably could’ve because hey, it’s Europe).
But seriously, a cooking class in Milan is the perfect activity for everyone including solo travelers, couples, families, etc.

Some of you might know how much I loooove California wine country (since it’s basically in my backyard) so It’s hard to put into words just how beautiful Northern Italy wine country 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.
A visit to Piemonte in November is one of the easiest day trips you can do from Milan, which is why it made my full roundup of the best scenic day trips from Milan (along with Lake Como, Cinque Terre, and even a sneaky cross-border one into Switzerland).
If Italian wine country is calling your name, head over to my full guide here →

If you’re visiting Milan in November or during the colder months, QC Termemilano in Porta Romana is hands-down the perfect winter activity.
There’s something next-level about stepping out of the chilly Milanese air and into steamy thermal baths, saunas, and steam rooms tucked inside a historic tram depot.
Don’t miss the viral rainstorm room – a dimly lit space with rolling thunder, flashes of lightning, and warm tropical rain that feels especially magical when it’s freezing outside.
Book the evening admission and you’ll also get an aperitivo buffet with snacks, sweet treats, and a glass of champagne to round out the coziest day ever.


The Pinacoteca di Brera is one of Italy’s greatest art museums and it sits inside one of Milan’s most beautiful neighborhoods. November is the perfect month to go – no lines, no heat, and the cobblestone streets of the Brera district feel like a different era entirely.
Pair the gallery visit with a wander through the neighborhood’s independent bookshops and wine bars.

I knooooow it’s winter but having gelato in Italy is an everyday thing. No matter how cold it is.
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.
November in Milan is all about layering. The city tends to be gray and damp, with chilly mornings that warm up a bit in the afternoon.
A waterproof jacket or trench coat is a must since rain is pretty common, and the fog can leave everything feeling damp. Bring comfortable walking shoes with good traction because the cobblestones around the Duomo and the Navigli can get slippery when wet.
Pack at least one dressier outfit if you’re planning to go out to dinner or catch a show. Milanese style is polished, even by Italian standards.
A scarf is both practical and an easy way to blend in with locals, and a small crossbody bag keeps your hands free for navigating cobblestones and holding your cappuccino.
Milan has one of the most efficient public transport networks in Italy, making it easy to navigate without a car.
Planning a trip to Milan in November comes with a lot of questions about the weather, big events, etc. So here are a few commonly asked questions about visiting Milan in November 👇
Yes. November is one of the best times to visit Milan if you want fewer crowds, lower prices, and a more local feel. The cooler weather is very manageable with the right clothing, and the early Christmas markets add a festive energy to the city from late November onward.
Expect temperatures between 7 and 13 degrees Celsius (45 to 55 F). November is one of Milan’s wetter months with overcast skies and occasional morning fog. Rain is possible but rarely heavy or persistent. Layering and a waterproof jacket will keep you comfortable throughout the trip.
November is a surprisingly lively month for events in Milan. The Christmas markets (Mercato di Natale) around Piazza Duomo and Castello Sforzesco typically open in late November, drawing locals and visitors alike for mulled wine, artisan gifts, and festive food. Arte Fiera and various gallery openings take place throughout the autumn season, and Fondazione Prada often hosts major exhibitions that run into the winter. La Scala opera season also opens in early December, so November is a great time to book tickets for one of the most celebrated opera houses in the world. Check the city’s official calendar closer to your travel dates, as programming changes annually.
Yes, absolutely. Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper (Il Cenacolo) at Santa Maria delle Grazie sells out weeks, and sometimes months, in advance. Book your ticket as early as possible through the official website. This applies year-round, including November.
Completely. Milan has world-class art museums, incredible food, stunning architecture, lively neighborhoods, one of the best aperitivo cultures in Italy, and easy access to some of the most beautiful countryside in Europe. Fashion is just one layer of a very deep city.
What was your favorite thing to do in Milan? Let me know in the comments below!
Check out this perfect Milan 3-day itinerary for first timers.
Don’t miss where to stay in Milan: top neighborhoods for first-time visitors.
Check out these 6 beautiful day trips that are a breeze to plan.
Check out my other travel guides on Italy here.
Check out my other travel guides on Europe here.
Chihuei Liu is a former flight attendant and the founder of Discover Over There, a travel blog for busy professionals who never want to stop exploring. Her guides focus on boutique and luxury hotel stays, California weekend getaways, wine country escapes, and well-planned travel itineraries that balance style, design, comfort, and efficiency. Based in San Francisco, she believes travel should be a priority, no matter how busy life gets.
Chihuei Liu is a former flight attendant and the founder of Discover Over There, a travel blog for busy professionals who never want to stop exploring. Her guides focus on boutique and luxury hotel stays, California weekend getaways, wine country escapes, and well-planned travel itineraries that balance style, design, comfort, and efficiency. Based in San Francisco, she believes travel should be a priority, no matter how busy life gets.