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How to Experience Milan Design Week in 2 Days (Like a Local)
Design, drinks & hidden gems — Milan in 48 hours

Milan Design Week is not just an event — it’s a city-wide playground of creativity, hidden courtyards, and unforgettable atmospheres. The key? Explore by neighborhood, mix design with food, and leave space for spontaneity.

DAY 1 — BRERA: DESIGN & TIMELESS ATMOSPHERE

Start early — mornings are quieter, more accessible, and simply better.

Morning: Brera Must-Sees

  • When Apricots Blossom @ Palazzo Citterio
    Via Brera 12
    A poetic exhibition exploring Uzbek craftsmanship and culture.

  • Grohe Aqua Sanctuary @ Teatro Studio Melato
    Via Rivoli 6
    A sensory installation focused on water and wellbeing.

  • Serotonin by Sara Ricciardi @ Pinacoteca di Brera
    Via Brera 28
    A reflection on happiness through design and soft, organic forms.

  • Interni Materiae @ Orto Botanico di Brera
    Via Brera 28 / Via Fiori Oscuri 4
    A reimagined garden blending nature and architecture.

Extra stop:

  • Gucci installation @ Chiostri di San Simpliciano

Drinks & Breaks

  • Bar Jamaica
    A Milanese institution — quick espresso, full atmosphere.

  • Taglieri e Bicchieri
    Via Anfiteatro 4
    Hidden courtyard, perfect for a relaxed glass of wine.

Lunch & Easy Stops

  • Sumire — authentic Japanese

  • Osteria Da Brunello / Stendhal — classic Milanese

  • Panika — drink, standing, very Design Week vibe

Evening Tip

Stay in Brera.
The neighborhood shifts into a softer, more intimate version of itself — perfect for wandering and last-minute discoveries.

DAY 2 — CITY CENTER & CINQUE VIE

Morning: Statale & Design Hub

  • Interni @ Università Statale
    Via Festa del Perdono 7
    One of the most iconic Design Week locations.

Coffee break:

  • Colibrì

  • Verzeratt

Midday: Architecture & Installations

  • Design Polacco @ Torre Velasca
    Piazza Velasca 3/5
    Two exhibitions exploring Polish modernism.

  • Metamorphosis @ Palazzo Litta
    Corso Magenta 24
    A scenographic installation in one of Milan’s most beautiful palaces.

Just across:

  • San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore
    A hidden masterpiece.

Nearby:

  • Roman ruins around Via Brisa

Sweet Break

  • Gelateria “Fatto con Amore”
    Corso Magenta
    Simple, authentic, and exactly what you need mid-day.

Drinks

  • Baltic Bar (Cinque Vie area)
    Relaxed and perfectly located.

AFTERNOON & EVENING — PORTA VENEZIA

Move here in the afternoon and stay for the evening — this is where Design Week becomes vibrant and social.

Must-See

  • Insieme @ Piscina Cozzi
    Viale Tunisia 35
    A rare chance to explore this incredible space.

  • Elle Decor @ Palazzo Castiglioni
    Corso Venezia 47
    A must for interior lovers.

  • Ikea – Food for Thought @ Spazio Maiocchi
    Via Maiocchi 7
    A contemporary take on food, design, and interaction.

Dinner & Nightlife

  • Taste of the Middle East — easy & flavorful

  • Non Solo Lesso — traditional Milanese

  • Drinks:
    Via Lecco area / Bar Picchio — the heart of nightlife

FINAL TIPS BY FOLLOWMI AROUND

  • Start early and weekdays are better

  • Mix iconic spots with hidden gems

  • Always stop for a drink

  • Let Milan surprise you

At FollowMi Around, we design experiences that go beyond the obvious — connecting you with the real soul of the city through local stories, people, and places


Want to experience Milan Design Week without missing the best spots (and discovering the hidden ones)?
Write us and let’s plan your tailored experience.