Milan or Venice? Fashion or Floating City

Milan and Venice are two of Italy’s most popular cities, and with good reason. Both are packed full of astonishing art and striking architecture, each with their own distinct atmosphere. One’s built on water, the other on style. So, how do you decide between Milan or Venice? Here’s how the two compare.

What’s the difference between Milan and Venice?

Milan is vibrant, dynamic and modern – a buzzing metropolis packed with high-end boutiques, cutting-edge contemporary art galleries and world-class museums. From cool concerts and festivals to haute couture, this is a city for aesthetes and pleasure-seekers.

Dreamily romantic, Venice takes life at a slower pace. The faded grandeur of this enchanting city, made up of over 100 islands and winding streets, will whisk you back to a forgotten era. From gondolas drifting down the canals to serene lagoon views, Venice is like nowhere else on earth.

So, when it comes to Milan vs Venice, the answer could be a multi-city trip…

Which city is better for first-time visitors?

If you’re wondering whether Milan or Venice is better for first timers, that depends on what you’re after. Venice is right at the top of many people's bucket list for its setting alone. The photos don't even do it justice – a trip here means slow evening rambles along the banks of the canals, with the water reflecting the dappled moonlight. It’s candlelit meals at some of the world’s most intimate restaurants, soaking up the true essence of la dolce vita.

Milan has a more lived-in vibe and feels less touristy. This is the place to come if you want to really get under the skin of an Italian city and live like a local. Fill up on Milanese delicacies and give your wallet a workout in the famed fashion boutiques – they don’t host Milan Fashion Week here for nothing – before settling down for some serious people-watching in the piazzas.

What are the top things to do in each?

Milan

Scale the spires of the Duomo for dizzying panoramic views. Nearby Navigli is packed with speakeasy-style bars, while Brera brings upscale artsy chic. For a scenic day trip, Lake Como is just a short ride away.

As one of the world’s fashion capitals, Milan is shopping heaven. Head to the Galleria for Gucci, Prada and Chanel, then dine Michelin-style at Cracco in Galleria.

Art lovers, don’t miss Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, The Last Supper, at Santa Maria del Grazie – just remember to book in advance.

Venice

Venice is a fairy-tale city of romantic adventures, where you’ll meander along hidden canals and pass postcard-worthy piazzas and palazzos. Grab a stolen kiss or two on a gondola ride or book a “big show” trip across the city on the Grand Canal vaporetti. While you’re on the water, consider a boat trip to Murano or Burano.

The heart and soul of Venice is St. Mark’s Square, with the awe-inspiring Byzantine Basilica forming its centrepiece. After taking in the majesty of the square, head off the beaten path and discover the “Bacari” – tiny but lively bars serving aperitivo and cicchetti.

You can’t miss the gothic magnificence of the Doge’s Palace and the famous Bridge of Sighs – once the final viewpoint for departing prisoners.

Which one’s better for food and drink?

Milan is a foodie’s paradise with a stylish aperitivo scene. Try risotto alla Milanese and cotoletta – both regional musts.

Venice is a delight for seafood lovers and cicchetti fans. Hunt down the tiny bars, order a spritz and sample the city’s small-plate treasures.

How touristy does each one feel?

Venice is a tourist magnet – and with good reason. It’s breathtaking, but crowds can be intense in the centre. Milan has a more authentic, local feel and tends to be less crowded. Both have hidden corners of calm, but you might have to search harder in Venice.

Which is easier to get around?

Venice swaps roads for canals – think gondolas, vaporetti and bridges. There are no cars, which means a slower, more magical pace.

Milan has a slick metro and transport network. Or take a vintage tram and click-clack your way through the city streets.

Can I visit both in one trip?

Yes! The Milan to Venice train takes just over two hours. Stop off in Verona or Lake Como for extra sparkle. Train travel makes combining the two seamless – and stylish.

Where to stay

Milan – Sina De La Ville

Stay steps from the Galleria and Duomo, with a wellness centre and rooftop wet deck for chilled-out city views.

Venice – Sina Palazzo Sant'angelo

Intimate and romantic, this boutique hotel sits right on the Grand Canal with a vaporetto station at your door.

See more

If you simply can’t choose between the two, why not plan your own epic Italy-by-train adventure? Combine Venice and Florence for art, Milan and Verona for charm, or go luxe on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. The beauty of train travel? You can hop off and on at will – tailoring your trip to suit your mood.

This feature was updated on 6th June 2025. The information within this feature is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication.