Unless you're talking about high fashion,
Milan tends to be ignored in conversations about the best places to spend the autumn season. There's no denying that the fall foliage in New York City is unmatched, or even the iconic grey skies in London, but this beloved Lombardian metropolis also has a lot to offer around this time of year. Here, you can flex your fabulous fall style, see the beautiful foliage in the city's best parks, and enjoy the mild weather when you dine along the scenic Navigli canals. No matter what you do, a great time awaits in Milan in autumn!
Tourism Peak Season is Over
To say that Milan is crowded is an understatement! Not only does the city already have millions in its population, but it's often filled with tourists too. Add to that the many editors, influencers, and celebrities who go here for
Milan Fashion Week and it's almost impossible to see a less-crowded metropolis. Fortunately, it is possible! Milan tends to be its least crowded every autumn since the peak season, which is usually from June to early September, just finished. This is arguably the best time to be in Milan since there aren't as many tourists around.
The Fall Foliage is Breathtaking
Milan doesn't get enough credit for its fall foliage. It's usually New York City or London that most people talk about when it comes to the autumn season. Granted, those places truly are breathtaking around this time of year, but Milan also deserves just as much recognition. When the leaves change color and the city is painted with a faint tinge of pumpkin orange, marigold, and tan, it almost as if the entire metropolis has turned into a Rembrandt painting. No matter which
neighborhood in Milan you end up in, the fall foliage adds a picturesque touch you wouldn't want to miss!
A Great Time for Dressing Up
Everyone knows by now that autumn is the best season for dressing up. The weather is cold enough to layer up and put on as many pieces as you want, but it's mild enough that you don't have to drown yourself in bulky winter gear. Imagine how chic you'll look in a sharply tailored suit paired with a double-breasted trench coat! Or how cute a bomber jacket pairs with a nice chunky sweater. Naturally, since Milan is a famous fashion capital, it's also one of the best places to truly flex your style out on the street. What’s not to love?
The Best Season to Visit The Parks
Where else can you flex your chicest autumn style?
Milan's beautiful parks, of course. Whether you're playing with your family or simply hanging out with friends, the park is a great place to spend time outside. Of course, autumn is also the best time of year to go to the park. Since the temperature will only go as low as 13°C (54°F), which is cold but not necessarily freezing, you can spend hours in any of the city parks and not break a sweat. Why not go on a picnic too, while you're at it?
Relax Along The Famous Navigli Canals
What's another great place where you can hang out in autumn in Milan?
Navigli! This beloved canal-side district provides the perfect scenery for a romantic autumn date in the afternoon. With its tranquil waters in contrast to the lively culinary and nightlife scene along the banks, the atmosphere here is truly unmatched. Naturally, the mild cold climate provides such comfort that you'd wish the temperature would never change. Imagine strolling along the Navigli canals all bundled up in your comfy sweaters, arm-in-arm with your special someone? Is there anything more romantic?
Indulge in Milan's Hearty Seasonal Dishes
Whether you're eating in Navilgi's traditional trattorias or any of
Milan's best Michelin-starred restaurants in Centro Storico, autumn is arguably the best season to try out the city's seasonal dishes. There's a very good reason why, but that's for later down the line. For now, these hearty dishes should be right up any true-blue foodie's alley! Try Risotto ai Funghi, for example, which combines the tender tanginess of saffron and parmesan with the strong flavors of fresh mushrooms. There's also Ossobuco, which is cross-cut veal braised with white wine and served with fresh vegetables. Just one bite and you'll be asking for it for dinner every time!
Enjoy The Harvest Season in Milan
Now, as for why autumn is the best season to try Milan's hearty seasonal dishes, this is mostly because of the harvest season. True to its name, this time of year is when the lovely
Italian vineyards nearby whip up some of their best wines. Not only that, but this is the only season when you're practically encouraged to drown yourself in wine. And what do you pair with the best reds or the lightest whites? Milan's autumn dishes, of course! All in all, spending autumn in Milan will have you going on one of the best foodie trips of your life!
Visit Other Beautiful Destinations Nearby
With the mild weather and the beautiful glow of the fall foliage, autumn is also the best time to go on day trips from Milan. The city itself is a fabulous destination, but generally speaking, it's a typical major metropolis. The destinations nearby are what's truly some of the most breathtaking parts of Italy. Take the romantic
towns in Lake Como, for example, all of which exude Italian provincial charms beside one of the country's most breathtaking lakes. Up for some old-world charm? Then go to Verona, a town steeped in its Renaissance tradition and architecture. Such grand historic beauty likely inspired William Shakespeare to set his most famous love story in this very town!
There's truly nothing quite like spending autumn in Milan. With its beautiful fall foliage, fewer tourist crowds, and fashionable locals, you'll want to enjoy the entire season in this beloved metropolis!
