Looking for immersive experiences in London? Well, good, because I’m the UK’s biggest independent immersive experience blogger. Whenever an immersive experience launches in London, I’m there no matter how weird it is. I have visited more than 100 so far!
Below are London’s best immersive experiences that I have tried and tested, organised by type. This article gets updated regularly, you’ll find 30+ immersive experiences here at all times.
Something needs updating? Give me a shout in the comments, or on Instagram (@travelwithpau).
🫖 Afternoon Tea /Wizard Afternoon Tea, spellbindingly delicious, with a smoky cauldron on the side.
🛏️ Overnight /Key of Dreams, a luxury 24 hour immersive theatre and fine dining experience you can stay in overnight.
This Month’s Highlight
Peaky Blinders: Underworld
The one everyone’s talking about right now. Set in the historic railway arches by London Bridge, Peaky Blinders: Underworld drops you straight into Thomas Shelby’s world, starting in a full recreation of the Garrison Tavern, where you can grab a drink before finding the hidden door down into the underworld beneath. From there you’re free to explore Garrison Lane, The Bookies, Chinatown, and the Small Heath Fairground, bumping into actors, solving puzzles, and stumbling into surprises along the way. Around an hour, fully immersive, and exactly the kind of world-building the show’s fans have been waiting for. Running 13 August 2026 – 3 January 2027, from around £25.
Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland and one of the most underrated city breaks in the UK. It’s compact, incredibly walkable, and packed with history, culture, and one of the best food and bar scenes I’ve encountered anywhere in the British Isles.
It’s also a city that wears its complex past openly the murals, the Peace Wall, the political taxi tours and that honesty makes it one of the most thought-provoking places I’ve visited. Come with an open mind, and you’ll leave with a genuine understanding of a city that has worked incredibly hard to reinvent itself.
Nowadays Belfast is my second home, as I own short term accommodation properties in the city. I’m constantly advising and engaging tourists so I do dare say I know a lot. So if you are visiting do me a favour and stay in one of them… wink, wink!
GRAND OPERA HOUSE
BELFAST ESSENTIALS
✈️ Getting There / Belfast has two airports, Belfast International (BFS) and George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD), most UK flights use City Airport, which is closer to the centre. Book a private airport transfer with WelcomePickups for a stress-free arrival. Search flights on Skyscanner.
🚗 Getting Around / The city centre is very walkable, with most attractions within a 20 to 30 minute walk of each other. For day trips out to Giant’s Causeway or Hillsborough Castle, compare rental cars on DiscoverCars.
🧳 Luggage Storage / If you’re early for check-in or have time to kill before heading home, no stress, there are luggage storage points all over Belfast. Use this website to find one nearby.
📱 Connect / Stay connected the moment you land with an eSIM. I use Holafly, use code TRAVELWITHPAU for 5% off.
🛡️ Get Insured / Even for a UK trip, it’s worth having cover. World Nomads offers coverage for over 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.
Wonderful Things to Do in Belfast
Visit the Titanic Belfast Experience
The Titanic Belfast museum is, without exaggeration, one of the best museums I’ve ever been to. Built on the exact slipway where the Titanic was constructed, it takes you through the full story of the ship, from Belfast’s industrial history to the night of the sinking and beyond. The building itself is stunning, designed to resemble the prow of a ship.
Book in advance, this sells out, especially on weekends. Book your Titanic Belfast tickets and include the SS Nomadic visit while you’re there.
Spot the Samson & Goliath Cranes
These two giant yellow cranes are Belfast’s most iconic skyline feature, you can see them from almost everywhere in the city. They’re a symbol of the city’s shipbuilding heritage and make for great photos, especially from the Titanic Quarter waterfront.
I visited Belgrade last year and came home genuinely surprised. It’s not that I expected nothing, it’s that what Belgrade actually is bears almost no relation to what you might imagine from the outside. It’s gritty in places and effortlessly elegant in others. The fortress that sits above the confluence of the Sava and Danube is extraordinary. The kafanas in Skadarlija are exactly as atmospheric as the postcards suggest, except cheaper and better. And the nightlife, the famous floating clubs moored along the riverbanks, is unlike anything else in Europe.
What Belgrade does, quietly and without making a fuss about it, is give you an enormous amount for very little money. Museum entry fees that cost less than a London coffee. Restaurant meals that would be twice the price anywhere west of Vienna. Hotels that are genuinely excellent at rates that feel almost unrealistic. It’s the kind of city that rewards curiosity, and I came home with far more photos than I expected to.
✨️ Getting There / Wizz Air flies direct from London Luton to Belgrade, and Air Serbia operates routes from Heathrow, flight time is around 2 hours 45 minutes. Book a private airport transfer with WelcomePickups for a fixed-price, no-stress arrival, Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport is 18km from the city centre and the airport taxi scene can be chaotic for first-timers. Search flights on Skyscanner.
🚗 Getting Around / Belgrade is a great base for a Serbian road trip, Novi Sad is 90km north, Nis is 230km south, and the western countryside (Zlatibor mountain, Drvengrad, the Drina River) is within a few hours. The city itself is manageable by tram and foot, but a car unlocks Serbia properly. Compare rental cars on DiscoverCars, prices are excellent by Western European standards.
🏨 Stay / Skip the endless scrolling, these are the ones I’d point a friend toward, Stari Grad (Old Town) and the Savamala waterfront district are the best bases, most things are walkable from either: Budget:Green Studio Hostel Mid-range:Townhouse 27 Splurge:Square Nine Hotel
🧳 Luggage Storage / If you’re early for check-in or have time to kill before a flight, no stress, there are luggage storage points around Stari Grad and the main train station. Use this website to find one nearby.
📱 Connect / Stay connected from the moment you land with an eSIM. I use Holafly, use code TRAVELWITHPAU for 5% off.
🛡️ Get Insured / Things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for over 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.
Zemun
Belgrade Bucket List: 20 Things to Do
1. Explore Belgrade Fortress (Kalemegdan)
The fortress complex that has guarded the confluence of the Sava and Danube for over 2,000 years is Belgrade’s defining sight, and it’s free. Kalemegdan’s upper and lower fortresses, Roman ruins, medieval towers, military museum, and sweeping views of the two rivers make this an easy two-hour wander, longer if you go at sunset, which you absolutely should. The Upper Town’s viewpoint at dusk, with the rivers below and the Novi Beograd towers lit on the far bank, is one of Europe’s great free views.
2. Visit the Temple of Saint Sava (Hram Svetog Save)
One of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, the Temple of Saint Sava has been under construction since 1935 and is still, technically, being finished, the interior mosaics (50 million pieces of Murano glass and gold leaf across 1,248 square metres) are an ongoing labour of extraordinary scale. What’s complete is breathtaking. But the real highlight is downstairs: the crypt, with its gold-vaulted ceiling, glittering chandeliers, and hushed intensity, is arguably more impressive than the main nave. Dress modestly, shoulders and knees covered.
Practical info: Free entry. Daily 7am to 8pm. Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid tour groups. Book a Saint Sava Temple guided tour if you want the history properly explained.
3. Wander the Skadarlija Bohemian Quarter
Belgrade’s answer to Montmartre, Skadarlija is a cobbled, pedestrian street lined with 19th-century kafanas (traditional Serbian taverns) where accordionists serenade you over roasted meat and rakija. Tri Sesira (Three Hats) is the institution, open since 1864, live traditional music every evening from 7pm, but Dva Jelena and Sesir Moj are both excellent. It’s touristy, yes, but genuinely atmospheric in a way that doesn’t feel put on. Come in the evening, order the grilled meat platter, and lean into it.
Practical info: Free to wander. Kafana meals typically 1,200 to 2,500 RSD (around £9 to £18) per head. Book ahead for Tri Sesira or Dva Jelena on weekend evenings. Book the Belgrade downtown walking tour, which includes Skadarlija.
4. Spend a Day at Ada Ciganlija
A river island on the Sava that locals call “the Sea of Belgrade,” and in summer, with the shingle beach packed and the cafe terraces full, you understand why. Ada Ciganlija is where Belgraders spend their summer weekends: swimming in the Sava lake created between the island and the bank, cycling the forested paths, playing tennis, or just sitting in a beach bar with an Efes. It’s a side of Belgrade that tourists often miss entirely, which makes it worth seeking out.
Practical info: Free to visit. Tram 7, 9, or 11 from the city centre, or a 20-minute taxi. Busiest June to September, quieter in shoulder months but still pleasant for a walk.
5. Explore the National Museum of Serbia
Reopened in 2018 after a 15-year renovation, the National Museum on Republic Square holds over 400,000 artefacts, Serbian medieval icons, the 12th-century Miroslav Gospel (one of the oldest Cyrillic manuscripts), and a fine European painting collection including works attributed to Rubens and Renoir. It’s compact enough to do in two hours, but rich enough to stay longer.
Practical info: Permanent collection 300 RSD (around £2.15), combined ticket 600 RSD (around £4.30). Free on Sundays. Tue to Wed and Fri 10am to 6pm, Thu and Sat noon to 8pm, Sun 10am to 6pm, closed Mondays.
6. Visit the Nikola Tesla Museum
A small but superb museum dedicated to the Serbian-American inventor, holding his personal effects, original documents, and the star exhibit, Tesla’s ashes in a gilded sphere. The guided electromagnetic coil demonstrations and lightning shows are spectacular and run on a fixed schedule. Advance booking is not optional in summer, walk-ins are not accepted. Cash only (Serbian dinars).
Practical info: English-language guided tour 800 RSD (around £5.75), Serbian tour 400 RSD (around £2.90), free for under-7s. Mon 10am to 6pm, Tue to Sun 10am to 8pm. Book well ahead in summer at tesla-museum.org. Book a Belgrade city tour combined with the Nikola Tesla Museum to guarantee your slot.
7. Wander Zemun
Technically part of Belgrade but feeling like an entirely separate, quieter Central European town, Zemun was under Austro-Hungarian rule until 1918, which is why it has Baroque churches and Habsburg architecture rather than Ottoman or brutalist Belgrade. Walk the cobbled Gardos hill up to the Millennium Tower for panoramic Danube views, then come back down to the Quay of the Liberation for riverside fish restaurants and cafe terraces. One of my favourite parts of the whole trip.
Practical info: Free to explore. Millennium Tower entry around 50 RSD (roughly £0.36). Best reached by taxi (around 500 to 700 RSD from centre) or bus 84 from Zeleni Venac. Book an e-scooter tour of Zemun to cover more ground in less time.
8. Climb Gardos Tower (Millennium Tower), Zemun
Perched on the highest hill in Zemun, this neo-Romanesque tower was built by Hungary in 1896 to mark the millennium of the Magyar conquest. Gardos Tower now offers the best viewpoint over Zemun’s rooftops and the Danube, with the spires of St Nicholas Church in the foreground. Combine it with the Zemun quay and you have a perfect half-day away from the main city.
The confluence of the Sava and Danube, the point where two rivers of distinctly different colours meet, is best seen from the water, alongside the fortress walls, the bridges, and the Novi Beograd skyline. Day cruises and sunset options both depart from the Beton Hala (Concrete Hall) waterfront on the Sava, near Karadjordjeva Street. The sunset cruise is particularly good.
Practical info: Sightseeing cruise from around £25 per person. Multiple departures daily in summer, reduced schedule off-season. Boarding point: in front of restaurant Ambar, Karadjordjeva 2 to 4. Book the guided sightseeing cruise, or the sunset cruise with a live guide for golden hour on the water.
10. Go on a Rakija Tasting Tour
Rakija, fruit brandy, most classically plum (sljivovica), though quince, pear, and apricot varieties are all excellent, is Serbia’s national spirit and as embedded in daily life here as wine is in France. A dedicated rakija tasting tour is the best way to understand the culture properly: you visit traditional producers, taste properly aged versions alongside fresh young spirits, and get a sense of the ritual around it. It’s also, frankly, very good fun.
11. Experience the Splavovi (Floating River Clubs)
Belgrade has one of the most distinctive nightlife scenes in Europe, and the splavovi, floating clubs and bars moored along the Sava and Danube, are its signature contribution. These are not rafts with a DJ. Modern splavovi are fully equipped venues with professional sound systems, large dance floors, and the open-air format (no roof, river breeze, city lights reflected on the water) is unlike anything you’ll find in Western Europe. Runs May to September, peak nights Thursday to Sunday from 11pm. Famous venues include Freestyler, Lasta, and Leto.
12. Visit the Museum of Yugoslavia and Tito’s Grave (House of Flowers)
A fascinating complex in the upmarket Dedinje neighbourhood that tells the story of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia through propaganda posters, diplomatic gifts, and personal artefacts. The centrepiece is the House of Flowers: Tito’s mausoleum, where the Yugoslav leader lies beneath a glass-roofed greenhouse. It’s atmospheric, quietly moving, and far more nuanced than you might expect from a Communist-era monument.
Practical info: Adults 400 RSD (around £2.90), students 200 RSD (around £1.45), children under 10 free. Free on 4 May (death anniversary) and 25 May (Youth Day). Tue to Sun 10am to 6pm, closed Mondays. Boticeva 6, Dedinje, around 5km from centre. Book the Tito and Yugoslavia short tour by car, or the Red Belgrade communist tour, which includes the Museum of Yugoslavia.
13. Stroll Knez Mihailova Street
Belgrade’s main pedestrian boulevard, Knez Mihailova is 600 metres of neo-Baroque buildings, bookshops, pavement cafes, and the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts. It runs from Republic Square down to the gate of Kalemegdan Fortress, making it the natural spine of any Old Town walk. The evening promenade (korzo) is a genuine local tradition: generations of Belgraders walking back and forth, meeting friends, and lingering in the warm air.
The symbolic heart of Belgrade, Republic Square is dominated by the equestrian statue of Prince Mihailo and flanked by the National Museum and National Theatre. It’s the natural starting point for any walk through the Old Town and the convergence point of Belgrade’s daily life, political gatherings, informal rendezvous, street musicians, and the korzo evening stroll all happen here. Worth pausing in at different times of day.
Practical info: Free.
15. Explore the Savamala Creative District
Belgrade’s post-industrial Sava waterfront has been transformed into a hub of galleries, design studios, cultural spaces, and underground clubs, Mikser House, KC Grad, and the bars around Karadjordjeva Street are where the creative city congregates. The Belgrade Waterfront (Beograd na Vodi) luxury development sits alongside, offering a glossier contrast. Savamala is where you feel the city’s energy most directly, and it’s especially good on weekend evenings.
16. Escape to Topcider Park and the Residence of Prince Milos
One of Belgrade’s most beautiful and consistently overlooked green spaces, Topcider Park is home to the Residence of Prince Milos, a remarkable Ottoman-Balkan palace from 1831 with original furnishings and portraits. A 200-year-old plane tree stands in the grounds. The park’s forested paths and the nearby Church of the Holy Trinity make this a lovely half-morning excursion when you need a break from the city.
Practical info: Park free, small entry fee for the Residence of Prince Milos. Open Apr to Oct 10am to 5pm, Nov to Mar 11am to 4pm. Tram 3 from the city centre.
17. Climb Avala Tower
A striking piece of 1960s Yugoslav modernism rebuilt after NATO bombing in 1999, the 204.8m Avala Tower stands on Mount Avala 16km south of Belgrade and offers 360-degree views over the city, the rivers, and the wooded hills of central Serbia. Three bronze caryatid statues of unnamed Yugoslav women stand at the base, one of the most quietly powerful public artworks in the Balkans.
Practical info: Adults around 400 RSD (around £2.90), children around 200 RSD (around £1.45). Weekdays 10am to 4:30pm, weekends 10am to 6pm, closed Mondays, not open in high winds. Best reached by taxi (30 to 45 minutes from centre) or as part of a tour. Book the Avala Mountain tour.
18. Try Burek and Cevapi
No Belgrade visit is complete without a morning stop at a local pekara (bakery) for burek, a flaky filo pastry filled with minced meat, cheese, or spinach, sold by weight and eaten warm from the tray with thick yoghurt (jogurt) poured over it. Cevapi (grilled minced meat rolls, served with flatbread and raw onion) are the other essential snack, eaten standing at street kiosks at all hours of the day. Both are achingly cheap and genuinely delicious.
Practical info: Burek around 150 to 300 RSD (£1.10 to £2.15). Cevapi around 250 to 400 RSD (£1.80 to £2.90). Pekaras open from 6am, cevapi kiosks from lunchtime. Book the street food and drinks tour, 20+ tastings including burek, cevapi and rakija.
19. Cool Off at Skyfall Rooftop Pool
It was properly hot when I visited, and my hotel didn’t have a pool, so I spent an afternoon at Skyfall, a rooftop pool and lounge in New Belgrade instead, and it turned out to be one of my favourite afternoons of the whole trip. Two pools, a lounge bar, decent food, and genuinely good views over the city, it’s a day-to-night spot so it fills up and shifts gears as the sun goes down.
Practical info: Entry 2,500 RSD on weekdays, 3,500 RSD on weekends, 21+. Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 165b (third floor, above Dolly Bell restaurant). Open Mon to Fri 11am to 8pm, Sat to Sun 10am to 8pm. Book online in advance, reservations are only held for 2 hours after opening due to limited capacity.
20. Eat Moskva Cake at Hotel Moskva
Hotel Moskva, Belgrade’s grandest Art Nouveau landmark on Terazije Square, is worth a visit for the building alone, but the real reason to go is the cake. The Moskva snit, a fruit sponge made with almonds, cherries, pineapple, and homemade cream, has been made to the same 1974 recipe ever since, and it’s such a genuine Belgrade institution that the hotel’s pastry shop bakes something like 20 tonnes of it a year. Grab a slice in the cafe and people-watch on Terazije for a while.
Practical info: Cafe Moskva, Terazije 20. A slice of Moskva snit is cheap, a few hundred RSD. Open daily from early morning.
Serbia is a strikingly varied country and Belgrade puts you within easy reach of some genuinely exceptional things. These are the day trips worth building your itinerary around.
Novi Sad, Sremski Karlovci and Fruska Gora
Serbia’s beautiful second city is just 90km north (30 minutes by fast train). The Petrovaradin Fortress hosts the EXIT music festival each July, and Sremski Karlovci, a small Baroque wine town minutes away, is the spiritual home of Serbian wine, a glass of Bermet is obligatory. Add on Fruska Gora, the “Holy Mountain” of Serbia, 16 Serbian Orthodox monasteries scattered across forested hills above the Danube, and this is one of the best full days out in the whole country. This is the tour I actually did, and I loved it, an hour through the colourful Pannonian Plain, a stop at one of the Fruska Gora monasteries, Sremski Karlovci’s quiet Baroque streets, and a taste of Bermet, the famous Serbian wine that once made it onto the Titanic. Book the Northern Serbia and Pannonia legacy full-day tour.
Golubac Fortress, the Iron Gate and a Rakija Distillery
This is one of my favourite days out from Belgrade. Golubac Fortress is a genuinely fairytale medieval castle perched on the Danube, and you get some super cute photos with it in the background. The speedboat ride along the Danube’s widest point, right at the entrance to the Iron Gate (Europe’s longest gorge), is awesome, proper wind-in-your-hair stuff. The day finishes at a local rakija distillery, watching the whole production process and tasting three varieties paired with traditional meze. Book the Golubac Fortress, Iron Gate speedboat and rakija distillery tour, the speedboat runs June to October, outside that window a monastery visit is substituted instead.
Drina House, Drvengrad and Sargan 8
Emir Kusturica’s idiosyncratic ethno-village on Mokra Gora mountain (built as a film set and now a permanent village-hotel-cinema) combined with a ride on the narrow-gauge Sargan 8 heritage railway through mountain scenery. One of Serbia’s most original attractions and a full day’s adventure into the western countryside. Sargan 8 closes November to March, Zlatibor mountain visits substituted in winter. Book the best of west tour.
Nis and Devil’s Town
Serbia’s third city, 230km south (2.5 hours by train), contains the Skull Tower, a macabre and genuine Ottoman monument constructed from the skulls of 952 Serbian rebels after the Battle of Cegar in 1809. Combine with Djavolja Varos (Devil’s Town): 202 eroded earth pyramids and two acidic springs in a strange, otherworldly landscape. Genuinely one of the most memorable day trips I can think of anywhere in the Balkans. Book the full-day tour to Nis and Devil’s Town.
Onward to Sarajevo via Visegrad or Tara National Park
Not a true day trip (5 to 6 hours each way), but a private sightseeing transfer breaks the journey at Visegrad (home to a UNESCO-protected Ottoman bridge and Kusturica’s riverside Andricgrad citadel) or through Tara National Park. Best treated as a one-way journey if you’re continuing onwards to Bosnia. Spectacular scenery throughout. Book the transfer from Belgrade to Sarajevo or Mostar via Visegrad or Tara National Park.
Avala Tower, Oplenac Royal Complex and Etno Village
A satisfying full-day loop south of Belgrade combining the Avala Tower observation deck, the Oplenac church at Topola (white marble interior covered in thousands of mosaic reproductions of medieval Serbian icons, extraordinary), and a traditional ethno village stop. Ideal if you want countryside, history, and views without a very long drive. Book the Avala Tower, Oplenac Royal Complex and Etno Village day trip.
Manasija, Resava Cave and Lisine Waterfall
A proper change of scenery, this one is all nature. The day takes in Manasija Monastery, a fortified 15th-century monastery built to protect the Church of Saint Trinity from the Ottomans, an 800-metre trail through Resava Cave, one of the most visited caves in this part of Europe (bring warm clothes, it’s a constant 7°C down there), and a lunch stop by the spectacular Lisine Waterfall. Back in Belgrade by early evening. Book the Manasija, Resava Cave and Lisine Waterfall day tour.
Tara National Park and the Drina River Valley
A full round trip, not just a stopover on the way to Sarajevo. This one takes in the famous House on the Rock, a tiny solitary house perched on a rock in the middle of the Drina River (one of the most photographed spots in Serbia), Banjska Rock in Tara National Park, thought to be the most beautiful viewpoint in the country, and panoramic views over the Drina River Canyon, before heading back to Belgrade in the late evening. Book the Tara National Park & Drina River Valley tour.
Belgrade is exceptional value by European standards, and the quality across all budget tiers is genuinely high. Stari Grad (Old Town) and Savamala put you closest to the main sights and nightlife.
Budget
Green Studio Hostel In the Savamala district, a minute from the river and the train and bus stations, right inside Belgrade’s nightlife and design hub. Featured by Lonely Planet and the Guardian. Community-run with daily art and music workshops, mixed dorms and private rooms. Dorms from around £12 a night, extraordinary value. Best for: solo travellers and creative types.
Mama Shelter Belgrade Right on Kneza Mihaila, the main pedestrian street, with 125 rooms, a rooftop bar with panoramic views, and the buzzy restaurant that makes the Mama Shelter brand work. Doubles from around £70 a night, occasionally under £60 in shoulder season. Best for: location on a slightly bigger budget.
Mid-range
Boutique Hotel Townhouse 27 A genuine find, 8 rooms individually decorated with sculptures by Gabriel Glid, free breakfast included, rated Trivago’s best hotel in Serbia and a TripAdvisor Hall of Fame property (top 1% globally). Intimate, personal, perfectly located in Stari Grad. From around £110 a night. Best for: couples and design lovers.
Radisson RED Belgrade Colourful, design-forward rooms, a rooftop bar, and a very good breakfast in a central location. All the mod cons, no surprises. From around £95 a night. Best for: reliable comfort with personality.
Splurge
Square Nine Hotel Belgrade The single finest hotel in Belgrade, designed by Brazilian architect Isay Weinfeld with Art Deco interiors, mid-century Hans Wegner furniture, and Cumaru wood detailing throughout. Rooftop pool with city views, full-service spa, two restaurants. Member of Leading Hotels of the World. Praised by The Telegraph, Lonely Planet, and Conde Nast Traveller. From around £250 a night. Best for: a truly special stay.
Metropol Palace Belgrade A grande dame hotel dating to 1957, with a magnificent mid-century lobby, 25m indoor pool, spa, and a rooftop restaurant with panoramic city views. Has hosted heads of state and rock stars in equal measure. From around £180 a night. Best for: grand hotel glamour.
Belgrade’s food scene is excellent and outrageously good value. Kafana culture is the backbone, traditional Serbian taverns serving roast meats, slow-cooked stews, and good local wine at prices that feel almost embarrassing by Western standards. Alongside it, a newer generation of restaurants has arrived: modern Balkan cooking, excellent wine bars, and a genuine food culture that goes far deeper than the tourist trail.
Tri Sesira (Three Hats) is the most beloved kafana in Skadarlija, open since 1864, with live traditional music every evening from 7pm. Book ahead for weekends. Order the mixed grill platter and a carafe of house red.
Ambar is a modern Balkan restaurant at the Beton Hala waterfront that takes Serbian cuisine seriously and presents it beautifully. Think slow-cooked lamb, smoked paprika dishes, and excellent mezze platters. One of the best restaurants in the city and still very good value. On the Sava at Karadjordjeva 2 to 4.
Lorenzo & Kakalamba is a long-standing Belgrade institution combining Balkan and Italian influences in a warm, relaxed setting near Skadarlija. One of those places that consistently appears on every local recommendation list. Excellent pasta and Serbian meat dishes side by side.
Zavicaj is the place for a proper traditional Serbian lunch without the Skadarlija tourist premium. Hearty bean soups, roast pork, and meze, eaten at communal tables in a no-frills setting that feels genuinely local.
Velika Skadarlija, right at the entrance to Skadarska street by the Bajloni fountain, is one of the oldest restaurants in the quarter, dating back to 1845. Traditional Serbian food, live music, and a proper old-school kafana atmosphere with waiters in uniform, it’s touristy in the best sense, the kind of place that’s popular precisely because it’s genuinely good. This one is my top pick for Skadarlija!
April Bar, tucked just behind Skadarlija on Zetska Street behind an unmarked green door covered in graffiti, is a different mood entirely, a cosy non-smoking bar with a garden strung with fairy lights. Great by day for a coffee in the green backyard, and it shifts into a proper night out with DJ sets later on.
For coffee, the kafana culture extends there too, Belgraders take their morning coffee very seriously. Artist Specialty Coffee is the pick for proper third-wave coffee, small, precise, and consistently rated one of the best in the city. Kafeterija and %Arabica also have branches for speciality coffee, or for an old-school Serbian experience, find a kafana and order a domaca kafa (traditional Turkish-style coffee).
For ice cream, Crna Ovca (Black Sheep) in Dorcol is the one worth queuing for, an artisan shop that’s made everything from kajmak to genuinely unusual seasonal flavours, less sweet and creamier than most, so it doesn’t feel like a purely summer treat.
How Long to Spend in Belgrade
2 days: Enough for the fortress, Saint Sava Temple, Skadarlija, Knez Mihailova, the National Museum, and at least one evening on the splavovi. You’ll cover the highlights but it feels fast.
3 to 4 days: The sweet spot. Adds time for Zemun, the Museum of Yugoslavia, the Tesla Museum (book ahead), Ada Ciganlija, a rakija tasting tour, and a proper night out. Also enough for one day trip, Novi Sad is the obvious choice.
5+ days: Use Belgrade as a base to explore Serbia properly. Add Fruska Gora, Nis and Devil’s Town, or the western countryside (Drvengrad, Sargan 8, Zlatibor). With a hire car, you can cover a remarkable amount of territory without it ever feeling rushed.
Getting To & Around Belgrade
Wizz Air flies direct from London Luton, and Air Serbia operates routes from London Heathrow, flight time is around 2 hours 45 minutes, and budget fares from Luton regularly come in under £80 return if you book ahead. Search flights on Skyscanner. Book a private airport transfer with WelcomePickups, Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport is 18km west of the city and the official taxi situation at arrivals can be confusing (and expensive) for first-timers, a fixed-price transfer removes the hassle entirely.
If you’re combining Belgrade with Slovenia, Croatia, or Hungary on a wider Balkans road trip, a hire car gives you flexibility that’s hard to match, compare rates on DiscoverCars. Serbia is good driving country, roads are generally well-maintained, signage is clear, and traffic outside Belgrade and Novi Sad is light. Within the city itself, trams and walking cover Stari Grad and Savamala easily.
Best Time to Visit Belgrade
Belgrade has distinct seasons and each one shapes the experience quite differently.
Spring (April to May) is when Belgrade wakes up. Terrace bars fill, the Kalemegdan park blooms, and the city is at its most effortlessly pleasant. Temperatures hover around 15 to 22°C, perfect for walking and fortress-hopping, and the crowds haven’t yet arrived. May is the sweet spot.
Summer (June to August) is warm (regularly above 30°C), lively, and the season for the splavovi, the floating river clubs that define Belgrade’s summer nightlife and are worth the trip alone. The EXIT festival in Novi Sad (July) draws huge crowds. It’s busy and hot, but this is when Belgrade is most fully itself.
Autumn (September to October) brings cooler weather, lower prices, and a more relaxed pace. The kafanas fill up as the terrace season winds down, the food markets are excellent, and the fortress is stunning on a clear autumn afternoon. September in particular is close to ideal.
Winter (November to March) is cold, January averages around 2°C, but Belgrade’s indoor culture comes into its own. Kafanas, wine bars, and jazz clubs are all the better for a grey day outside. Prices drop significantly, and the city is far less tourist-heavy. Good for those who want an authentic city experience without the crowds.
Belgrade City Views
Belgrade FAQ
Is Belgrade worth visiting? Genuinely yes, and it’s consistently underestimated. The fortress and river confluence are spectacular, the food and nightlife scenes are both excellent, and the history, Ottoman, Habsburg, Yugoslav, all layered on top of each other, gives the city a complexity that takes a bit of time to appreciate. It’s also one of the most affordable capitals in Europe, which makes it easy to stay longer than planned.
Is Belgrade safe to visit? Yes, Belgrade is a safe city for tourists. The usual urban common sense applies (watch your bag in crowds, be aware of your surroundings late at night), but it’s not a high-crime destination and the locals are notably friendly and helpful. The splavovi and Savamala nightlife areas are busy and well-policed on weekend nights.
Is Belgrade expensive? Not at all, it’s one of the best-value cities in Europe. A coffee costs around 150 to 250 RSD (around £1.10 to £1.80). A kafana meal with wine comes to 2,000 to 4,000 RSD (around £14 to £29) per person. Museum entry is almost free by Western standards. Budget travellers can live very well on £50 a day including accommodation, comfortable mid-range is around £80 to £100 a day.
What currency does Serbia use? Serbian Dinar (RSD). Serbia is not in the Eurozone, though some tourist businesses accept euros. ATMs are plentiful and card payments are increasingly accepted, but carry some cash, smaller kafanas, bakeries, and the Tesla Museum are cash only.
How do I get from London to Belgrade? Wizz Air flies direct from London Luton, Air Serbia flies from London Heathrow. Budget fares from Luton start from around £60 to £80 return booked ahead. Flight time is around 2 hours 45 minutes. A private airport transfer with WelcomePickups is the easiest way into the city from the airport. Search flights on Skyscanner.
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Hola from the vibrant coastal city of Malaga! Malaga captured my heart with its perfect blend of rich history, stunning beaches, and lively culture. Nestled on the Costa del Sol, this Mediterranean gem invites you to soak up the sun, indulge in delicious tapas, and immerse yourself in its captivating past. Join me as I share my Malaga bucket list, uncovering the best activities, places to stay, places to eat, and tips for navigating this Spanish haven.
MALAGA ESSENTIALS
✈️ Getting There / Malaga is served by Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), one of the busiest in Spain, with direct flights from across the UK on Ryanair, easyJet, British Airways, and Jet2. Book a private airport transfer with WelcomePickups: fixed-price, meet-and-greet arrival, the taxi queue in summer can be long! Search flights on Skyscanner.
🚗 Getting Around / Malaga city centre is gloriously walkable, most of the main attractions are within a 20-minute walk of each other, and Uber, Bolt, and FreeNow all operate here too. For day trips further afield, compare rental cars on DiscoverCars.
🧳 Luggage Storage / If you’re early for check-in or have time to kill before a flight, no stress, there are luggage storage points all over Malaga. Use this website to find one nearby.
📱 Connect / Stay connected from the moment you land with an eSIM. I use Holafly, use code TRAVELWITHPAU for 5% off.
🛡️ Get Insured / Things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads covers 150+ activities, including hiking, water sports, and day trips, exactly what you’ll be doing in Malaga.
Malaga Bucket List: Things to Do in Malaga
1. Roam the Historic Alcazaba
Begin your Malaga adventure at the Alcazaba, a centuries-old Moorish fortress-palace climbing the hillside above the city, offering breathtaking views of the city and the Mediterranean. Wander through its enchanting gardens, gates, courtyards, and ancient walls, transporting yourself back in time. The adjacent Roman Theatre at the foot of the hill is free to see from outside and adds another layer of history. Book the Alcazaba guided tour to get the most out of it.
Discover the birthplace of the legendary artist Pablo Picasso. The Picasso Museum, housed in a historic palace, showcases an impressive collection of his works spanning his career, giving real insight into the life of this creative genius. A short walk away, his actual birthplace on Plaza de la Merced is now a foundation and exhibition space. Book your Picasso Museum ticket in advance here, it does sell out.
3. Stroll Through the Old Town (Casco Antiguo)
Lose yourself in the charming streets of the Old Town, where vibrant markets, cosy cafes, and hidden squares await. This is where Calle Larios, Malaga’s elegant marble-paved pedestrian main street, runs through, lined with 19th-century buildings and boutiques. A walking tour is always something I’d recommend for your first morning to get properly oriented, book an Old Town walking tour here , it covers Calle Larios, Bishop Square, the Cathedral, and the Alcazaba’s backstory.
4. Try the Sweet Wine at El Pimpi
After a magnificent sunset, what can you do? Have a little wine and something to snack on before dinner, of course. A great, and legendary, place to do it is El Pimpi. I always recommend their Malaga Virgen sweet wine (around €2 a glass), a portion of dogfish to share (€11), or a light piripi, a mini-sandwich of pork loin, natural tomato, bacon, cheese, and aioli.
5. Relax at La Malagueta Beach
Unwind at La Malagueta Beach, where golden sands meet the azure Mediterranean, just a short walk from the historic centre. Whether you’re a sunbather, a water sports enthusiast, or just a beachcomber, this coastal haven offers the perfect escape from the sightseeing.
6. Visit Malaga’s Best Museums
Did you know Malaga is one of the cities with the most museums in Spain? If you love art, you’re going to have a busy few hours here. Beyond the Picasso Museum, the unmissable stops are the Centre Pompidou (its striking multicoloured cube sits right on the port at Muelle Uno), book your ticket here, and the Carmen Thyssen Museum (housed in a 16th-century palace, holding around 230 works by 19th-century Spanish artists), book your ticket here.
7. Explore the Malaga Museum
The Malaga Museum, housed in the Palacio de la Aduana (the old Customs Palace), is one of the city’s most underrated stops, combining the Fine Arts Museum and the Provincial Archaeological Museum under one roof. It’s a genuinely impressive collection for a museum most visitors walk straight past.
8. Hike Mount Gibralfaro for Panoramic Views
Lace up your walking shoes and climb Mount Gibralfaro, above the Alcazaba, for the finest panoramic views in Malaga, the harbour, the bullring, the cathedral, and the beaches stretching either side. You can walk up through the Alcazaba gardens or take bus 35 from Paseo del Parque to the top. The Parador hotel up here has a lovely terrace for a drink even if you’re not staying.
9. Indulge in Tapas Culture
Dive into Malaga’s vibrant food scene by hopping from one tapas bar to another. Savour local specialities like boquerones (anchovies) and salmorejo (cold tomato soup) while embracing the lively atmosphere. In many traditional bars, you still get a free tapa with every drink you order, the streets around Calle Carreteria and the cathedral are lined with old-school bodegas worth working your way through. For a more structured version of the same idea, book the evening wine and tapas tour.
10. Marvel at the Cathedral of Malaga
Marvel at the grandeur of the Malaga Cathedral, nicknamed La Manquita (“the one-armed lady”) because construction started in the 16th century and one of its two towers was never finished, funds were diverted to support the American Revolution instead. The result is charming rather than awkward. Climb to the rooftop for one of the best panoramic views in the city.
11. Visit the AC Malaga Palacio’s Terrace
To get a proper panoramic view of the cathedral, go up to the terrace of the AC Malaga Palacio (I used to stay here on work trips) and it’s really cool, it even has a pool with views. Admission with a drink costs around €10, but the views are priceless.
12. Wander Atarazanas Central Market
Stroll through the stalls of Atarazanas Central Market, a Malaga classic. It’s the work of architect Joaquin de Rucoba, who built the market on the remains of an old Nasrid-era naval workshop. Don’t miss the stained-glass window at the far end, which floods the hall with colour and is truly marvellous. Come in the morning when it’s busiest.
13. Escape to La Concepcion Botanical Garden
If you like quiet places and want to surround yourself with greenery, the La Concepcion Botanical Garden is an oasis of peace about 4km north of the centre. Inaugurated in 1855 and expanded since, it’s home to one of the finest collections of tropical and subtropical plants in Europe. Great with kids too, entry includes a little train tour of the grounds. Admission costs €5.20.
Malaga Cathedral
14. Swim and Boat Along the Coast
Another essential thing to do in Malaga is take a swim, there are beaches all along the coast. Beyond Malagueta, if you have a few days and want a change of scene, head to La Caleta and Pedregalejo. And why not rent a boat and go out to explore the beaches of the Malaga coast and its most inaccessible corners at your own pace? There are options with and without a skipper from under €100 per boat, per day. Book the “captain your own boat” experience, no licence needed.
15. Sail Off on a Sunset Catamaran
If you’d rather someone else did the sailing, a sunset catamaran trip is one of the loveliest ways to end a day in Malaga, watching the city and the Alcazaba glow gold from the water with a glass of cava in hand as the sun drops behind the coastline. Book the sunset catamaran trip with a glass of cava.
16. Explore Pedregalejo and El Palo
If you want a more authentic, local Malaga experience away from the tourist centre, head east along the coast to the Pedregalejo and El Palo beach neighbourhoods. These old fishing districts have narrow streets, seafood restaurants right on the beach, and a relaxed neighbourhood atmosphere. This is where espetos de sardinas (sardines grilled on cane skewers over wood fires on the beach) originated, eating them here with your feet practically in the sand is genuinely one of the great Malaga experiences.
17. Explore the Automobile and Fashion Museum
For something completely different, the Automobile and Fashion Museum is a fascinating blend of vintage cars and haute couture, a journey through time showcasing the evolution of both industries side by side. Book your ticket here.
18. Catch a Flamenco Show
No trip to Andalusia is complete without seeing proper flamenco, and Malaga has some genuinely good venues for it rather than the tourist-trap versions you find in some cities. Teatro Flamenco Malaga puts on an intimate, authentic show in a small, cosy venue right in the centre, dancers, singers, and musicians in a setting where you’re close enough to feel it rather than watching from the back of a big theatre. Book Teatro Flamenco Malaga tickets.
Practical info: Calle Lazcano 5. Around one hour. Books up, especially at weekends.
Do you have more time and have you already done everything there is to see and do in Malaga itself? Consider renting a car through DiscoverCars and taking a route through the province at your own pace, passing through some of its most beautiful towns.
Caves of Nerja, Nerja and Frigiliana
Nerja, 55km east of Malaga, has one of the most beautiful natural settings on the Costa del Sol, the Balcon de Europa viewpoint drops straight down to the sea, with superb beaches either side. Just outside town, the Caves of Nerja are a genuinely spectacular set of prehistoric caverns, nicknamed the “Natural Cathedral of the Costa del Sol” for their scale. Just 7km inland from Nerja, Frigiliana is arguably the prettiest white village in Andalusia, with flower-draped streets and Moorish-era architecture. All three are doable in a day. Buses run from Malaga bus station to Nerja (around €5, 1 hour), or book the Caves of Nerja, Nerja & Frigiliana day tour to cover all three in one guided day out.
El Caminito del Rey
El Caminito del Rey is one of Spain’s most exhilarating walks, a walkway route hanging over the Gaitanes Gorge near El Chorro, about an hour from Malaga. Just know you’re going to be scared: the walkways are nailed to the canyon walls and you’ll literally have an abyss under your feet, in places you’re 105 metres up. It’s had a major safety renovation and is now a proper tourist attraction, but it’s still dizzying and spectacular. Book weeks ahead in high season. Book the Caminito del Rey day trip with guided tour to have all the logistics handled for you, including a stop in the white town of Ardales along the way.
Mijas, Marbella, Puerto Banus and Colomares Castle
For a proper taste of the glamorous Costa del Sol, this combined day trip covers Mijas Pueblo (one of the prettiest white villages in Andalusia, with panoramic sea views), Marbella’s historic centre and its beautiful Plaza de los Naranjos, Puerto Banus (yachts, sports cars, and designer boutiques, purely for the people-watching if nothing else), and the extraordinary Colomares Castle in Benalmadena, a genuinely strange and wonderful monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus that mixes half a dozen architectural styles. Book the Mijas, Marbella, Puerto Banus & Colomares Castle tour.
Ronda and Setenil
Ronda sits on a dramatic gorge 100km west of Malaga, its 18th-century Puente Nuevo bridge spanning the El Tajo gorge is one of the iconic images of Andalusia. Nearby Setenil de las Bodegas is famous for houses built directly into the rock overhangs. Book the Ronda & Setenil tour with wine and tapas to see both in one day without the driving, with free time built in and a proper Andalusian food stop along the way.
Antequera
Antequera is less visited than Ronda or Nerja but genuinely worth the detour, home to some of the oldest and best-preserved megalithic dolmens in Europe (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), plus the dramatic karst rock formations of El Torcal nearby.
Gibraltar
Yes, you can day trip to another country. Gibraltar is about 2.5 hours from Malaga along the coast, and the contrast is part of the fun, red phone boxes, duty-free shopping, and British pubs sitting at the foot of the Rock, with the Strait and Africa visible from the top on a clear day. The Upper Rock Nature Reserve has the famous Barbary macaques and St Michael’s Cave, a natural cavern full of stalactites. Book a direct bus tour to Gibraltar from Malaga, with an optional guided Rock Tour once you’re there.
Cordoba
Further afield but worth it if you have the time, Cordoba is about 2 hours from Malaga and home to the extraordinary Mezquita, the Mosque-Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where hundreds of red-and-white striped arches give way to a Renaissance cathedral built right in the middle of it. The old Jewish Quarter and the Roman Bridge over the Guadalquivir are worth the wander too. Book a Cordoba full-day trip with Mezquita-Cathedral.
Granada
Granada is the day trip everyone should do at least once, home to the Alhambra, one of the most spectacular palace complexes in the world. The Nasrid Palaces, the Generalife gardens with their famous water features, and the Alcazaba fortress all sit within the same UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s genuinely worth the roughly 2-hour drive each way. Book a Granada full-day trip with the Alhambra, with priority access and a guide through the Nasrid Palaces and Generalife.
Seville
Seville is the furthest of these day trips, but if you have the time it’s one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, the Real Alcazar, the vast Gothic Cathedral with its Giralda tower, and the Barrio Santa Cruz’s tangle of orange-tree-lined lanes. It’s a long day (allow the best part of 12 hours round trip) but doable. Book the Seville day trip with optional monument tickets, with free time built in to explore at your own pace.
Where to Stay in Malaga
For a stay that combines comfort and proximity to Malaga’s main attractions, consider the vibrant Old Town or the trendy Soho district. The Malagueta area offers beachfront accommodation, a perfect blend of relaxation and city life.
I stayed in this serviced apartment, which was bang in the city centre, and everything was absolutely perfect. Best for: anyone who wants a proper kitchen and living space without giving up a central location.
I haven’t stayed here myself, but this is the one I’d point a friend toward for a proper mid-range pick. It’s right across from the Cathedral, just off Calle Larios, in a pair of restored 19th-century buildings, and the rooftop pool and terrace looking out over the Cathedral is a genuinely lovely spot for an evening drink. Best for: first-timers who want to be right in the historic centre without going full splurge.
If you want to splash out, this is the place, up on the hill by the castle with stunning views and a real sense of history and occasion. Best for: a special-occasion stay with the best views in the city.
Embark on a culinary journey in Malaga, where the vibrant flavours of Andalusian cuisine await. Start with espetos de sardinas, grilled sardines skewered to perfection on the beach. Dive into the refreshing depths of salmorejo, a cold soup topped with egg and jamon. For a crispy seafood affair, try pescaito frito, an array of lightly battered and deep-fried fish. Cool off with porra antequerana, a heartier cold soup, and the almond-infused freshness of ajoblanco. Try gambas al pil pil, prawns sizzling in olive oil and chilli peppers. Finish with sweet wine, or the classic joy of churros dipped in velvety chocolate, Casa Aranda near the market has been doing them since 1932 and is constantly crowded for good reason.
For sweet wine specifically, Antigua Casa de Guardia on Alameda Principal is Malaga’s oldest wine bar, pouring since 1840 straight from huge old barrels behind the counter, with your order chalked up on the bar in front of you. It’s a two-minute detour from Atarazanas Market and one of the most atmospheric places in the city for a glass of Muscatel or Pedro Ximenez.
I’ve put together a few curated lists rather than a plain write-up, so you can pick and choose:
3 days is the minimum to see Malaga city properly, the Alcazaba, Picasso Museum, Old Town, beach neighbourhoods, and a proper tapas evening.
4 to 5 days lets you add one or two day trips, Nerja and Frigiliana on one day, Ronda or the Caminito del Rey on another.
A week or more gives you time to slow down, fit in a couple more day trips (Granada and the Alhambra, Gibraltar, or Seville are all doable from Malaga), and really enjoy the food and beach life.
Getting To & Around Malaga
Getting to Malaga is a breeze, thanks to Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, which connects to major cities across Europe including several in the UK. From the airport, the Cercanias C1 train runs every 20 minutes to the city centre (12 minutes, €1.80), or grab a taxi (€15 to €20). Book a private transfer with WelcomePickups if you’d rather have it fixed-price and waiting for you. Search flights on Skyscanner.
The city itself is walkable, and buses and contactless-payment trains cover the rest easily. Uber, Bolt, and FreeNow are all available too. Consider renting a bike to explore the scenic waterfront, or a train to nearby towns. For day trips further out into the province, a hire car gives you the most flexibility, compare rates on DiscoverCars.
Best Time to Visit Malaga
Malaga enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year, which means it’s genuinely a good destination in any month. That said, spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are the sweet spots, warm enough for the beach, not outrageously hot, and with smaller crowds than peak summer. July and August are the busiest and hottest months, temperatures regularly hit 35°C+, and the city is packed.
If you visit in spring, try to time it with Semana Santa (Holy Week), Malaga’s Easter processions are among the most dramatic in Spain, with elaborate floats, incense, and thousands of penitents filling the streets. It’s an extraordinary spectacle.
Winters are mild (15 to 18°C) and quiet, perfect for a city break focused on culture and food rather than beach time.
Malaga FAQ
Is Malaga safe for tourists?
Malaga is generally very safe for tourists. Exercise normal precautions, stay aware of your surroundings, and be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas.
Is Malaga worth visiting beyond the beach?
Absolutely. Malaga has one of the most concentrated collections of museums in Spain, a fascinating Moorish fortress, a beautiful old town, and some of the best tapas culture in Andalusia. The beach is a bonus, not the main event.
What is the best area to stay in Malaga?
For first-time visitors, the Old Town (Casco Antiguo) is the best base, within walking distance of the Alcazaba, Picasso Museum, cathedral, market, and tapas bars. The Soho district is slightly more affordable and very central. The Malagueta area is perfect if you prioritise beach access.
What is the currency in Malaga?
The currency is the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available, and contactless payment is accepted almost everywhere.
How do I get from Malaga airport to the city centre?
The Cercanias C1 train runs every 20 minutes from the airport to Malaga Centro station (12 minutes, €1.80). Taxis cost around €15 to €20. For a fixed-price, door-to-door service, WelcomePickups is the most reliable option.
What are the best day trips from Malaga?
The best day trips from Malaga are Nerja and Frigiliana (coastal and village beauty), Ronda and Setenil (dramatic gorge and rock-built houses), Caminito del Rey (spectacular hiking), and Antequera (prehistoric dolmens and dramatic rock formations).
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I’ll be honest, Milan wasn’t on my original Italian radar. Rome, Florence, the Amalfi Coast, those were the ones everyone raved about. But then I actually went to Milan, and something clicked. This city is different. It’s cooler, sleeker, and somehow more real than you’d expect from one of the EU’s wealthiest cities. Yes, the designer boutiques are everywhere and the Aperol Spritzes are €14, but scratch beneath the surface and you’ll find Gothic cathedrals, Renaissance masterpieces, neighbourhood aperitivo bars, and some of the best risotto you’ll ever eat.
Whether you’re spending a weekend or a full week, there are so many brilliant things to do in Milan. It’s a city that rewards slow wandering just as much as ticking off the big sights. Get lost in Brera, stumble across a canal bar at golden hour, stand on the Duomo rooftop as the sun sets over the Alps, and then wonder why you didn’t come sooner.
This guide covers everything: my Milan bucket list, where to stay, where to eat, the best tours, day trips, and all the practical info you need to plan your trip.
MILAN ESSENTIALS
✈️ Getting There / Milan has two main airports. Malpensa (MXP) is the larger international hub, about 50km from the city centre, budget around 50 to 60 minutes by road. Linate (LIN) is much closer, just 7km east, and is often used for European short-haul flights. From London, you’re looking at roughly 2 hours in the air. Book a private airport transfer with WelcomePickups: fixed prices, professional drivers, no taxi rank stress. Search flights on Skyscanner.
🚗 Getting Around / Milan’s metro is excellent, clean, affordable, and fast. The main lines to know are M1 (red), M2 (green), M3 (yellow) and M5 (lilac). Trams are charming and great for getting around the centre, and much of the historic core is very walkable. Avoid taxis and Uber, they’re expensive in Milan. A 24-hour travel pass is great value if you’re planning to cover a lot of ground.
🧳 Luggage Storage / If you’re early for check-in or have time to kill before a flight, no stress, there are luggage storage points all over Milan. Use this website to find one nearby.
📱 Connect / Stay connected the moment you land. I use Holafly, use code TRAVELWITHPAU for 5% off.
🛡️ Get Insured / Don’t travel without it. World Nomads is brilliant for independent travellers and covers most adventure activities.
Milan Bucket List: 19 Things to Do in Milan
1. Climb the Duomo di Milano
The Duomo is Milan, this Gothic cathedral has been under construction for over 600 years and is the third largest in the world. Even if you’ve seen plenty of European cathedrals, nothing quite prepares you for this one. The white marble facade, the forest of spires, the sheer scale of it all. But the real highlight? Getting up on the rooftop terraces and weaving between 135 spires and 3,200 statues with the Alps as your backdrop on a clear day. It’s genuinely one of Italy’s greatest views.
Practical info: Entry to the terraces costs around €15 via stairs or €20 by lift. Rooftop access is included in the Duomo Pass. Book well ahead to skip the queues, this is one Milan attraction where winging it will cost you time, or skip the stress entirely with a guided Duomo and rooftop tour that includes tickets. Dress code applies (no bare shoulders or knees inside the cathedral). Open daily from around 9am.
2. See Da Vinci’s The Last Supper
This is the one you cannot miss, and also the one that requires the most planning. Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper (Il Cenacolo) is housed in the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie, and viewings are strictly limited to 15 minutes with groups capped at 30 people. Tickets can sell out months in advance. I am not exaggerating. Do not leave this to chance.
The painting depicts the moment Christ announces his betrayal, the expressions on each apostle’s face are extraordinary, and seeing it in person, understanding its scale (roughly 4.6m x 8.8m), is a genuinely moving experience.
Practical info: Viewings run in timed slots. Independent tickets via the official website sell out fastest, or book a skip-the-line guided tour instead, which is often easier to secure and gives you valuable context on the painting. €15+ for entry. Address: Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2.
3. Explore Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Right next to the Duomo, the Galleria is one of the world’s oldest shopping malls, a soaring 19th-century glass-and-iron arcade housing luxury brands, historic cafés, and the famous mosaic of the bull in the floor (spin on its bits for good luck, apparently). Even if you’re not in the market for Prada, it’s worth wandering through just for the architecture.
Practical info: Free to enter and explore. The cafés inside (Biffi, Savini) are expensive but atmospheric for a coffee. Open all hours as it’s a public walkway, and it’s usually one of the stops on this Milan highlights walking tour if you’d rather see it with context alongside the Duomo and Sforza Castle.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
4. Castello Sforzesco and Michelangelo’s Pietà Rondanini
The Sforza Castle is one of Milan’s most impressive landmarks, a massive 15th-century fortress built by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan. What most people don’t know until they get there is that it houses several excellent museums, including Michelangelo’s final and unfinished sculpture: the Pietà Rondanini. He was working on it just days before his death at 88. It’s raw, haunting, and unlike anything else you’ll see in Italy.
Practical info: Entry to the castle grounds is free; museums cost €5–10, or book a guided tour with an audioguide if you want the Pietà Rondanini’s story properly explained. The Museo della Pietà Rondanini is open Tuesday–Sunday, 10am–5:30pm. The castle is a 10-minute walk from the Duomo.
5. Wander the Brera Neighbourhood
Brera is the artistic heart of Milan and one of those rare city neighbourhoods that manages to feel both genuinely historic and genuinely cool. Cobblestone streets, independent boutiques, art galleries, great coffee shops, and some of Milan’s best restaurants. It’s where you wander without a plan and end up having the best afternoon of your trip.
Practical info: Best explored on foot. The neighbourhood clusters around Via Brera and Via Fiori Chiari. It’s very walkable from the Sforza Castle and the Duomo.
6. Pinacoteca di Brera
While you’re in Brera, don’t skip the Pinacoteca, one of Italy’s finest art galleries, housed in a beautiful Baroque palace. The collection spans medieval and Renaissance masterpieces including Raphael’s The Marriage of the Virgin, Mantegna’s Dead Christ, and works by Caravaggio, Tintoretto, and Leonardo. It’s less hectic than the Uffizi in Florence and the collection is genuinely world-class.
Practical info: Entry €15, free on the first Sunday of each month, or book a guided experience if you want an expert walking you through the highlights. Open Tuesday–Sunday, 8:30am–7:15pm. Address: Via Brera, 28.
7. Aperitivo in the Navigli District
If you only do one evening activity in Milan, make it aperitivo in the Navigli. The Naviglio Grande canal dates back to the 12th century and today its banks are lined with bars that do the most gloriously generous happy hours, buy a drink and you get a spread of snacks laid out like a proper meal. Arrive between 6 and 9pm when the vibe is at its best, the lights hit the water, and the whole neighbourhood feels like it’s exhaling after a long day.
Practical info: It’s worth doing an evening canal boat tour to see the canals from the water before settling in for aperitivo, this one bundles the boat ride and aperitivo together so you don’t have to plan the two separately. Most bars along the Naviglio Grande do aperitivo from around €8 to €12 including food. The Navigli is in the south of the city, reachable by metro (Porta Genova, M2 green line).
8. Santa Maria delle Grazie
Even setting aside The Last Supper (which is in an adjacent building), Santa Maria delle Grazie is a stunning church worth visiting in its own right. The external dome, designed by Bramante in the late 15th century, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. The interior is serene and beautiful.
Practical info: Entry to the church is free. The refectory housing The Last Supper requires a separate timed ticket (see item 2 above). Address: Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2. Closed Monday.
9. Via Montenapoleone and the Fashion District
Even if couture isn’t your thing, a stroll through the Quadrilatero della Moda (Fashion Quadrangle) is a Milan experience. Via Montenapoleone is the most famous street, think Gucci, Prada, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, all lined up in beautiful historic buildings. The window displays alone are an art form. For slightly more affordable shopping, Via della Spiga and the streets around it have independent Italian brands alongside the big names.
Practical info: Free to wander. The fashion district is a 15-minute walk northeast of the Duomo. Peak shopping hours can get very busy; go early morning for a more peaceful experience.
10. San Siro Stadium Tour
San Siro, or to give it its proper name, Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, is one of football’s most iconic venues and the shared home of AC Milan and Inter Milan. Even if you’re not a huge football fan, the stadium tour is surprisingly excellent: you walk through the players’ tunnel, see the changing rooms, stand on the pitch, and visit the museum packed with shirts and memorabilia from two legendary clubs.
Practical info: Stadium tours run daily (9:30am to 5pm October to March; until 6pm April to September), book your spot on the stadium and museum tour here, tickets from around €20. Note: tours are suspended on match days. The stadium is in the northwest of the city, take the M5 (lilac line) to San Siro Stadio.
11. Bosco Verticale and Porta Nuova
This one won’t likely be in any other Milan travel guide, but in my opinion it’s totally worth looking at. Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest) is one of the most photographed buildings in Milan, twin residential towers literally covered in over 900 trees and 20,000 plants. The concept is extraordinary and the execution is genuinely impressive, super environmentally friendly but also very photogenic. It sits in the regenerated Porta Nuova district, which is Milan’s modern business quarter and a fascinating counterpoint to the historic centre.
Practical info: You can’t go inside the towers (they’re private residences) but the external view is free and the surrounding Biblioteca degli Alberi park is a lovely spot to sit and take it all in. From the Gae Aulenti square, the buildings are about a 5-minute walk. Reachable by metro (Porta Garibaldi, M2/M5).
Bosco Verticale
12. Cimitero Monumentale
One of Milan’s most unexpected highlights. The Monumental Cemetery opened in 1866 and is essentially an open-air museum of funerary sculpture, elaborate mausoleums, dramatic statues, and artistic monuments commissioned by Milan’s wealthy families over the centuries. It’s extraordinarily beautiful in a very particular way and often overlooked by visitors in favour of more traditional sights.
Practical info: Free entry, or book a guided tour if you want the stories behind the mausoleums explained rather than wandering blind. Open Tuesday–Sunday, 8am–6pm (closed Monday). Address: Piazzale Cimitero Monumentale. Reachable by tram (lines 12/14) or a short walk from Monumentale metro (M5 lilac line).
13. Aperitivo Culture: Do It Like a Local
Aperitivo isn’t just a drink in Milan, it’s an institution. The tradition of serving a generous spread of food with your pre-dinner drink is particularly Milanese (it’s different from the rest of Italy, where you usually just get crisps and olives). Do it properly: order a Negroni, an Aperol Spritz, or a local Campari Soda, find a bar with a good buffet spread, and spend an hour not rushing.
Practical info: Classic aperitivo runs 6pm–9pm. Beyond the Navigli, good areas include Brera, Corso Como, and Isola neighbourhood. Budget €8–15 per drink including food.
14. Peck Delicatessen
Peck is a Milan institution, a legendary delicatessen on Via Spadari that’s been feeding the city since 1883. The ground floor is a temple to Italian food: aged cheeses, cured meats, truffles, olive oils, fresh pasta, and hundreds of other things you’ll want to buy and carry home. Upstairs there’s a restaurant. It’s pricey, but even just browsing is an experience.
Practical info: Address: Via Spadari, 9 (2 minutes from the Duomo). Open Tuesday–Sunday. A small treat from the deli counter makes an excellent picnic companion for Parco Sempione.
15. Parco Sempione
Milan’s green lung and the park that stretches behind the Sforza Castle. On sunny days this is where Milanese come to read, cycle, picnic, and generally exhale, and it has real charm too: ducks and turtles in the ponds, buskers and musicians dotted around, and the Arco della Pace at one end with the Sforza Castle at the other. There are several interesting structures within the park including the Torre Branca viewing tower and the Triennale design museum, but honestly the best thing to do is just find a bench and spend an hour people-watching in one of Europe’s most style-conscious cities.
Practical info: Open daily from 6:30am. Free entry. The main entrance is via the Sforza Castle courtyard. Worth combining with a castle visit.
16. Teatro alla Scala
La Scala is simply one of the greatest opera houses in the world. Even if opera isn’t your thing, the building itself is magnificent, the ornate auditorium with its six tiers of boxes is exactly what you imagine when you picture 19th-century Italian theatre grandeur. The museum is excellent and you can often access the auditorium as part of the visit.
Practical info: The Museo Teatrale alla Scala is open daily 9am to 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 5:30pm; entry around €9. Performance tickets vary hugely in price, check the schedule at teatroallascala.org. If you’d rather see it as part of a wider route, this 3-hour city highlights walking tour includes La Scala alongside the Duomo and Galleria. Address: Piazza della Scala.
17. Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore
Known as “Milan’s Sistine Chapel,” this 16th-century Benedictine church on Corso Magenta looks almost plain from the outside, which is exactly why it’s such a good surprise. Step in and every surface, walls, vaults, arches, is covered in Renaissance frescoes, most of them by Bernardino Luini, one of Leonardo da Vinci’s most talented followers. It’s genuinely one of Milan’s best hidden gems and most visitors walk straight past it.
Practical info: Entry is free. Address: Corso Magenta, 15, a short walk from Santa Maria delle Grazie, easy to combine with a Last Supper visit.
18. Bar Basso and the Birth of the Negroni Sbagliato
If you only make one cocktail pilgrimage in Milan, make it this one. Bar Basso, open since 1947, is where the Negroni Sbagliato was accidentally invented in the early 1970s when founder Mirko Stocchetto reached for prosecco instead of gin. It’s still served the same way today, in huge custom Murano glasses, and the bar itself has barely changed either. Expect a proper old-school Milanese crowd and a genuinely historic drink in your hand.
Practical info: Address: Via Plinio, 39. Get there for a pre-dinner drink, it gets busy.
19. San Bernardino alle Ossa, Milan’s Bone Chapel
Tucked a short walk from the Duomo, San Bernardino alle Ossa looks like an ordinary Baroque church from outside, until you step into the small side chapel and find every wall covered in thousands of human skulls and bones, arranged in deliberate, almost decorative patterns. It’s not for everyone, but it’s one of the strangest and most memorable things I’ve seen in any Italian city, and most visitors have no idea it’s there.
Practical info: Free entry, donations welcome. Address: Piazza Santo Stefano / Via Carlo Giuseppe Merlo, 4. Open Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm, Saturday 9:30am to 6pm, the ossuary itself is closed on Sundays.
Navigli District
Milan Day Trips
Milan’s position in northern Italy makes it an excellent base for day trips. Here are the best ones:
Lake Como
The most popular day trip from Milan, and for good reason. Lake Como is impossibly beautiful: crystal-clear water, dramatic Alpine mountains, and elegant villages like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio strung along the shoreline. Bellagio is the jewel, a perfectly preserved lakeside village that justifies every postcard it’s ever appeared on. Como is about an hour from Milan by train (direct services from Milano Centrale) and there’s a regular ferry network between villages. Allow a full day, ideally combining the train to Como with a ferry hop between villages, or skip the planning entirely and book a Lake Como and Bellagio day trip from Milan that handles the transport for you.
Lake Garda
Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake and a very different character to Como, wider, grander, with a slight Mediterranean feel in the south. Worth it for Sirmione (a beautiful peninsula with a fairy-tale castle), Gardaland (if you have kids), or the northern shore around Riva del Garda for dramatic mountain scenery. Around 1.5 hours from Milan by train.
Bergamo
Bergamo is one of Italy’s most underrated cities and just 45 minutes from Milan by train. The Città Alta (upper town) is a perfectly preserved medieval walled city perched on a hill above the modern lower town, reachable by funicular. Fewer tourists than most Italian destinations of this quality, and the food (polenta, casoncelli pasta, moscato wine) is outstanding.
Turin
About 1 hour by high-speed train from Milan, Turin is elegant, baroque, and seriously underappreciated, the original Italian capital, home to the Shroud of Turin, some of the best chocolate in Europe, and a brilliant Egyptian museum. Great for a day trip or an overnight add-on.
Where to Stay in Milan
Staying in the centre of Milan is recommended but not at all essential in my opinion. On my trip I stayed north of the centre, near a concert venue, and found it noticeably cheaper, getting into the centre on the metro was still super quick and easy, though the specific place I picked wasn’t great so I won’t be recommending it here. It’s worth knowing that hotels inside the very centre (near the Duomo) command a premium. The areas around Brera, Porta Garibaldi, and Porta Romana offer great value with easy metro access.
Excellent location just a short walk from the Sforza Castle and Duomo, with consistently high guest ratings (9.6 for location and comfort). Clean, comfortable rooms with a lovely breakfast buffet, and the staff are notably helpful. One of the best budget picks in the city centre. Best for: First-timers who want to be central without overspending.
A stylish 4-star right on Piazza Fontana, just a 2-minute walk from the Duomo. 330 rooms with a sharp, contemporary Italian look; the food and beverage programme is run by Eataly, which is a very good sign. Strong ratings across the board and a genuinely premium feel without the full luxury price tag. Best for: A special occasion stay in the heart of Milan.
If you’re going to splash out in Milan, this is the place to do it. Tucked on a private garden street between Via Montenapoleone and La Scala, in other words, exactly where you want to be in Milan, the Bulgari Hotel is housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century Milanese palazzo. A gold-tiled spa pool, 61 impeccably designed rooms, and the kind of service that makes you feel like the most important person in the city. Best for: Honeymoons, milestone celebrations, living your best life.
Pizza: Maruzella and Piccola Ischia are solid all-rounders, Pizza AM is the one for a proper Neapolitan version, and S.P.I.B. is the one to know for proper thin-crust.
Panzerotto: Luini, a Milan institution near the Duomo serving fried and baked panzerotti (think a pocket-sized calzone) since 1888, is an essential quick bite between sights.
Ice cream: La Gelateria della Musica and Gelato Giusto are both consistently excellent, Cioccolatti Italiani does a lovely chocolate-dipped cone if you want to make it a bit extra, and Ciacco is the pick if you want organic or vegan gelato, I had the vegan pistachio there and it was a dream come true.
How Long to Spend in Milan
2 days is enough to hit the main highlights: Duomo and rooftop, The Last Supper, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Sforza Castle, Brera neighbourhood, and an evening in the Navigli. It’s a tight itinerary but doable if you pre-book everything.
3 days is the sweet spot. Add the Pinacoteca di Brera, a morning in the fashion district, the Cimitero Monumentale, and a proper long aperitivo evening without feeling rushed.
4 to 5 days gives you time to breathe, explore the Porta Nuova area, fit in a day trip to Lake Como, discover neighbourhood restaurants properly, and generally feel like you’ve understood the city rather than just ticked off its sights.
Getting To & Around Milan
Most UK airports have direct flights to Milan Malpensa (MXP) or Milan Linate (LIN), around 2 hours flying time from London, with Ryanair and easyJet flying to both from multiple UK cities, often very cheaply. Book a private airport transfer in advance with WelcomePickups for fixed-price pickups with meet-and-greet service, and note that Malpensa is much further from the city (50km) so factor in extra journey time and cost. If you fancy a scenic, low-carbon alternative, it’s possible to reach Milan from the UK by train via Eurostar to Paris, then a high-speed train through the Mont Cenis tunnel to Turin and on to Milan, it’s a long day, but a genuinely scenic one. Check routes and prices on Trainline.
Once you’re in Milan, the metro is excellent, clean, affordable, and fast, and trams and walking cover the rest of the historic core easily, so avoid taxis and Uber, which are expensive here. If you’re exploring further afield within Italy, Milan is well-connected by high-speed rail: Florence is about 2 hours away, Venice about 2.5 hours, and Rome about 3 hours, with Trenitalia and Italo as the main operators, book in advance for the best prices, again via Trainline.
Castello Sforzesco
Best Time to Visit Milan
Milan is a year-round destination, but some times are better than others. April to June and September to October are the sweet spots, mild temperatures, lovely light, and the city feels alive without being overwhelmingly busy.
Avoid August if you can. Milan empties out dramatically in August, locals leave for the coast, many restaurants and shops close, and the city has a strange, hollow energy. It can also be brutally hot.
Fashion Weeks in September and February are worth knowing about. They bring an exciting creative buzz to the city, but hotel prices surge and the Quadrilatero della Moda area gets very crowded. Book well in advance if you’re visiting during these periods, or factor in the premium.
Winter (November to February) has fewer tourists and lower prices, which has its appeal, but Milan in grey, drizzly weather is less inspiring than in the golden light of spring or autumn.
Milan FAQ
Is Milan worth visiting?
Absolutely. Milan often gets unfairly dismissed as just a shopping and business destination, but it has world-class art, architecture, food, and some of Italy’s most fascinating neighbourhoods. It’s simply a different kind of Italian city, more cosmopolitan and modern, and that’s part of its appeal.
How many days do you need in Milan?
Minimum 2 days to cover the highlights. 3 days is the sweet spot. If you want to add a day trip to Lake Como, plan for 4 days minimum.
What is the best area to stay in Milan?
For first-timers, anywhere within walking distance of the Duomo or in the Brera neighbourhood puts you close to everything. Porta Garibaldi and Isola are great for a more local, neighbourhood feel.
How far is Lake Como from Milan?
Lake Como is about 50km from Milan. The town of Como is roughly 1 hour by direct train from Milano Centrale, or 30 minutes by regional express. Bellagio is an additional 50-minute ferry ride from Como.
Do I need to book The Last Supper in advance?
Yes, and I cannot stress this enough. Tickets can sell out months in advance, especially in peak season. Book as early as humanly possible. If you’ve left it too late for official tickets, booking via a guided tour is often the best way to still secure access.
When is the best time to visit Milan?
April to June and September to October are the best months, good weather, vibrant atmosphere, and manageable crowds. Avoid August (the city empties out) and be prepared for premium prices during Fashion Weeks in February and September.
Planning more of Italy? Check out my guides toVenice, Cinque Terre, andGenoafor the perfect Italian trip.
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