The Best Time to Visit Milan

Milan is one of the sleekest and most stylish cities in Italy, meaning it attracts visitors throughout the year. Here you can enjoy romantic strolls through the pretty streets, explore beautiful natural sights, indulge in excellent cuisine and shop like never before! Whether you’re seeking a relaxing break in an authentic cafe or one of the best fashion destinations in the world, Milan has it all. 

With so many places to visit in Milan, it’s important to spend some time planning your trip. This will help ensure you make the most out of your time here, all without missing a thing. No matter who you choose to travel with, the city is great for a range of holiday itineraries. From things to see with families, to plenty of stunning spots to enjoy with your partner, you’ll find somewhere here to suit everyone. 

We’ve put together a guide below to help you decide the best time to visit Milan. From the weather throughout the months to the different seasons, you can find out everything you need to know about your next city break here! 

Reasons to Visit Milan

Milan is a bustling city that offers a range of attractions and sightseeing spots for all to enjoy. It is one of Italy’s highlights, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the lavish lifestyle. The architecture throughout the streets is a highlight for many. Here you will discover the history and some of the best architectural attractions in the world, providing some great insight into the Renaissance and Neoclassical periods. 

The food is another aspect that draws plenty of visitors to Milan each year. You can indulge in plenty of mouth-watering Italian plates, alongside an array of cuisines from around the world. As you wander through the city’s streets, you’re sure to stumble upon plenty of hidden gems, all of which will bring your taste buds to life! 

A trip to Milan simply isn’t complete without exploring its fashion and design heritage. Discover some of the biggest names in the industry, alongside plenty of up-and-coming designers. Not only will you be impressed by the array of labels around the city, but the city also has a rich history of fashion, allowing you to discover where some of the top names started.  

You will find plenty of other amazing things to see and do around Milan, creating a holiday to suit a range of travellers. From the famous yellow tram rides to its excellent connection to other popular tourist spots, you’re sure to be impressed by all that this stunning Italian city has to offer. 

The ​​Weather in Milan

Now you know a little more about what to expect from a trip to Milan, next you’ll need to decide the best month to visit. The weather, attractions and crowds all vary throughout the year, so we’ve gathered more information below. This way you can choose the best time to explore the city that suits you. 

April-May

When deciding on the best time of year to visit Milan, anytime from April to May is a great option. This is when the city is much quieter allowing for a peaceful break before the summer crowds appear. Temperatures average around 18°C, creating a pleasant climate for those hoping to get out and active. There may be some cooler days, but you will find that Milan gets warmer towards the end of spring. 

June-August

For those desiring great weather in Milan, a trip here between June and August is ideal. This is when the climate is much hotter with temperatures averaging around 28°C, perfect for visitors looking to dine outside or enjoy their break at a leisurely pace. Many find that Milan is too hot in summer to spend days walking around the city, but you will still find plenty to do here during the evening when the temperatures decline to around 20°C. 

September-October

Much like spring, autumn also presents a comfortable climate for those looking for the best time to visit Milan. Temperature averages are between 18 to 24°C, depending on the month you decide to stay here. September is often the warmest month of the autumn season, with October presenting cooler weather. The streets are also much quieter around Milan during this time, perfect for visitors pursuing the top sightseeing destinations without the crowds. 

November-March

If you’re planning a festive break in the city, winter is an excellent time for those looking to stay in Milan, as there are plenty of great things to do in this season. With an abundance of Christmas attractions, alongside pretty lights throughout the streets in November and December, you’re sure to feel the magic surrounding the metropolis during this time. 

It’s important to note that the weather is much cooler during this season with temperatures ranging from 7 to 10°C. November and December are often busier than January, February and March as the tourists head to Milan to enjoy the fantastic Christmas shopping. However, January, February and March are perfect for guests seeking cooler temperatures and far fewer tourists. 

The Best Time of Year to Visit Milan

Now you know a little more about the weather in Milan throughout the different months, it’s likely you’re now looking for the best things to do here. We’ve gathered more information below on the different seasons, alongside the best things to do during this time. This way you can decide when to visit Milan at a time that suits you. 

Spring in Milan

There is a great balance of both weather and tourism for those visiting Milan in spring. With a comfortable climate of sunshine and blue skies, alongside fewer tourists, you can enjoy a sightseeing break in utter tranquillity during this time. We recommend packing layers for your trip to the city in spring, although there are plenty of warm days, you may also find some cooler evenings and mornings during your stay. 

Sit by the water and indulge in delicious cuisine whilst exploring Milan in spring or head to the shops where you will find new designer collections to marvel at. Early April is perfect for those hoping to wander the city with pleasant weather and comfortable temperatures. This is an ideal month for those seeking plenty of exploration as the climate allows guests to enjoy outdoor activities with ease. 

Culture Week also takes place in April, fantastic for those pursuing days at the many museums around Milan. During this time visitors can explore many of the galleries for free. This is great for history buffs or cultural enthusiasts as you can take advantage of the lower prices, alongside the lack of queues and crowds. 

Spend your days strolling around the top sights and attractions in Milan in spring, or enjoy a shopping spree without the hustle and bustle. No matter how you choose to spend your time here, the mix of lovely weather and quieter atmosphere provides an excellent setting for those planning a trip during this time. 

Summer in Milan

Seeking hot weather and a lively atmosphere? If so, summer is the perfect time to visit Milan. With much warmer temperatures and plenty of hustle and bustle throughout the streets, you can immerse yourself in the energetic city and top attractions during this period. 

You will also find that Milan is much busier in summer, great for those seeking a vibrant environment and plenty of things to do and see. Due to the number of tourists visiting the city throughout these months, there are also lots of events and attractions for all to enjoy. 

We recommend planning your excursions and activities before your trip to Milan in the summer. With longer queues and more tourists, booking your tickets in advance will help avoid long waits for some of the top sightseeing spots around the city. A trip to the bustling metropolis in summer is also excellent for those hoping to soak up much of the Italian culture and heritage. With festivities such as the Festa del Naviglio, the White Night and plenty of live events and concerts, you will discover lots to keep the whole clan entertained. 

It’s important to note that the climate can become quite oppressive for those getting out and active during this time and if you’re seeking a quieter break, summer won’t be the season for you!

Autumn in Milan

The autumn season brings more rain in comparison to the other months in Milan. However, don’t let this deter you from visiting as there are still plenty of amazing things to do throughout the city. With temperatures dropping, you will discover a comfortable climate to get out and explore. 

One of the main attractions of Milan in autumn is fashion week. This is a great time to immerse yourself in the rich history of the designers throughout the city and beyond. The metropolis comes to life with stylish visitors and flashy cars. Even if you don’t have tickets for the show, you will be enthralled by the beautiful outfits strolling through the lanes, alongside the luxurious aura around Milan.  

If fashion isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other amazing events happening in Milan in autumn. From Milano Jazz Festival to Milan’s Grand Prix and much more, you can enjoy the cultural festivities and energetic atmosphere during this time. Plus, with so many celebrations taking place, this provides the perfect opportunity to wander off and stroll around the sightseeing destinations throughout the city. 

Winter in Milan 

Much like spring in Milan, winter is also a great time for those planning a quiet break in the city. The temperatures are much cooler during this time and fewer events and excursions are happening, meaning the tourist crowds begin to thin. Where you would usually find roads brimming with eager tourists, winter presents a peaceful setting for those looking to stroll the streets at a leisurely pace. 

Winter is great for visitors hoping to soak up the beautiful architecture around Milan, as you can stop and take pictures without worrying about others blocking your photo. There are also some great indoor activities to enjoy. With an abundance of museums scattered throughout the city, alongside some great shopping opportunities, you won’t be stuck for things to do when visiting Milan in winter. 

If you’re planning a festive break, Milan is a great place to be. Wander around the pretty Christmas markets and take in the twinkling lights and decorations littered throughout the city. Plus, there is also a chance of snowfall during this time, creating a magical setting for all to enjoy! 

Summary

It is clear to see that Milan is an excellent city to explore throughout the year. However, April, May, September and October are great for those looking to see all of the top spots without the busy tourists. For those seeking warmer temperatures and a vibrant atmosphere, the summer months are when you’ll want to plan your break in Milan. 

With so much to see and do around Milan, we recommend planning your trip with the weather, attractions, and tourism in mind. This allows guests to visit the city at a time that best suits them. No matter when you decide to stay here, you’re sure to be impressed by all that this sophisticated destination has to offer.

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About the Author

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Ella Whitehead

Marketing Executive for SEO Travel, travel writer for Backpacker Boy, passion for content creation and adventure!