Hidden Gems for Milan

Find great things to do in Milan

Looking for a combination of tradition and modernity? Choose Milan! Where architecture, Renaissance art and fashion converge. In our travel guide you will find great things to do in Milan.

1. Hidden Gem: Da Otto

This place is perfect for lunch or an afternoon coffee. Just order a delicious cake, plop yourself down on a couch and relax under green branches. The restaurant is essentially a large space with many plants, sofas and stools where you can sit, eat, drink, listen to the music, work and chat. It feels like a big living room. This hip spot is located in Sarpi, the Chinatown of Milan. While it is not directly in the centre, a 20-minute walk will get you there.

Da Otto / © Instagram: ingrid_opstad

2. Hidden Gem Milan: East Market

Go treasure-hunting in the east market! The hipster market is located inside of an industrial building in the heart of Ventura Design District in Milano. At this marketplace you can find anything – vintage clothing, furniture, antiques and more. There are also some food stalls and good music! Better yet: The entrance is free!

East Market / © Instagram: adriana.ut

3. Hidden Gem Milan: Matcha Cafe

When Matcha is life! There is not only the basic Matcha Latte, there is also Matcha Pancake, Matcha Blueberry Cheesecake, Matcha everything…But also the salty stuff is absolutely delicious. We recommend that you try the Sushi Bowl.

Matcha Cafe / © Instagram: francesca_mda

4. Hidden Gem Milan: Terrazza 12

About a five-minute walk away from the Duomo, you’ll find this chic rooftop bar. Inside it almost feels like someone’s living room with all the cozy furnishings. The aperitivo with plenty of snacks is kind of expensive, but the view is really worth it. A perfect place to start a warm summer night.

Terrazza 12 / © Instagram: morminoserena

5. Hidden Gem Milan: MARGHE

A spot beloved by Italians, MARGHE is a top contender for the best pizza places in Milan. All are prepared with a high crispy edge, a thin base and of course fresh ingredients. The toppings are plentiful and simply delicious. Classics like margherita, vegan offerings or a more sophisticated pizza with pancetta and mushrooms for sure will explode your taste buds. The friendly staff will make sure you will have an even better experience. Located in Via Cadore, MARGHE is one of the best value for money experiences in Milan.

MARGHE / © Instagram: marghe_pizza

6. Hidden Gem Milan: Orsonero Coffee

Italy and coffee belong together. So if you fancy a good coffee break while exploring Milan, stop by Orsonero. Don’t expect to enter a traditional Italian, corner coffee shop. This café could be located in London, New York, Sydney, wherever. The interior is minimalistic, with white walls and light wooden tables. Also the menu is pared down: espresso-based drinks, filter coffee and tea. There are also some small snacks like pastries and sandwiches from local suppliers. Grab a coffee, relax and enjoy the Italian way of life.

Orsonero Coffee / © Instagram: nathanmichael

7. Hidden Gem Milan: Mag Café

Mag Cafè is situated on one of the canals in the Navigli District in Milan. This Bohémien style place is café and bar in one. The cocktails are carefully crafted, utilising herbs and syrups, and served up in shiny vintage glassware. Mag´s interior looks a bit like that of an antique store – a bit chaotic but stylish and cozy. To be honest you will feel like in someone’s living room. While they serve a delicious brunch on the weekend, this is also the perfect place to relax after a long day at work with an aperitivo.

Mag Cafe / © Instagram: flavioangiolillo

8. Hidden Gem Milan: Il Massimo Del Gelato

This is definitely a Gelateria that should be on your Milan bucket list. The display case is a triumph of colors and flavors, from fruity to creamy to the most complex. Especially chocolate lovers will get their money’s worth, as the gelateria often has up to 8 different chocolate flavours.