A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Milan vs. Washington for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Milan or Washington?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Milan and Washington can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Milan

Milan is a cultural, trendy, and chic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Washington

Washington is a monument-filled, international, and diverse city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Milan and Washington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Milan or Washington?

You'll generally find more things to do in Milan than Washington. Milan is bigger than Washington, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Milan is better known for its nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Washington is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, hiking, and quaint atmosphere. Washington is more touristy than Milan and is known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. Milan is well known for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. Also, Milan is famous for Piazza del Duomo.

How is Milan different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Washington and Milan. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Milan or Washington?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Washington has many famous sights for visitors. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Milan. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.

Is Milan or Washington Better for Theater?

Washington is great for its shows and theatre. However, Milan is not a theatre destination.

Washington attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Milan is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Milan or Washington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Milan and Washington can be difficult as they are each amazing in their own way.

Many restaurants in Milan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

Eat your way through Washington, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Is Milan or Washington Better for Nightlife?

Milan is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

People head to Milan just to party. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

Washington has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

Is Milan or Washington Better for Music?

Milan is a world-class destination for live music. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its live music scene.

Milan is known as a music capital around the world. The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

The music scene helps keep Washington active and fun. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Is Milan or Washington Better for its Old Town?

Milan is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Washington does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Milan is revered around the world. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Milan or Washington Better for Hiking?

Washington is adequate for hiking. However, Milan is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Milan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Milan or Washington?

Milan is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Milan. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Milan or Washington Better for Christmas?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Milan does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Washington is a top place to visit during Christmas. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Milan does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Milan or Washington Better for Families?

Washington is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Washington. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Milan is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

Is Milan or Washington Better for Couples?

Both Milan and Washington are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Milan is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Is Milan or Washington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Milan is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Milan is very popular with the backpacker crowd. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Milan or Washington Better for Students?

For students, both Milan and Washington are amazing places to visit.

Milan is a very popular city for students. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Is Milan or Washington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Milan and Washington both offer amazing public transit to get you around.

Public transit in Milan is top-notch. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

Washington has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Is Milan or Washington a more walkable city?

Milan and Washington are amazing when it comes to walkability.

Milan is a very easy city to get around on foot. In particular, the city center is walkable.

It is easy to get around Washington on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Milan Worth Visiting? and Is Washington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Washington or Milan?

How long in Milan or Washington?

Both Milan and Washington have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than in Milan. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Milan, and 3-7 days is enough time in Washington.

Families should spend more time in Washington than Milan. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Washington, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Milan than Washington if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Milan.

One day in Milan or Washington?

When visiting Milan, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Milan, one day is sufficent for most.

In Washington, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this diverse big city offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Milan or Washington?

When visiting Milan, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Milan or Washington?

Milan, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Washington is a fun place to experience. In Washington, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this big city destination offers. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Milan or Washington?

Milan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Washington, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this monument-filled big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Milan and Washington, we can see that Washington is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Milan is in Europe and Washington is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Milan Expensive? and Is Washington Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Milan or Washington?

Milan has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Milan and Washington, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Milan or Washington?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Milan or Washington in the Summer?

Both Washington and Milan are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Milan in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Washington for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Milan is cooler than Washington. Typically, the summer temperatures in Milan in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Washington averages at about 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Washington. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Milan. Milan usually receives less sunshine than Washington during summer. Milan gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Milan usually receives less rain than Washington. Milan gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Washington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Milan or Washington in the Autumn?

Both Washington and Milan during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Milan for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Washington because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Milan is generally around the same temperature as Washington. Daily temperatures in Milan average around 15°C (58°F), and Washington fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

In the autumn, Milan often gets less sunshine than Washington. Milan gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 197 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Milan. Milan usually gets more rain in October than Washington. Milan gets 103 mm (4 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Milan or Washington in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Milan and Washington. The winter months attract visitors to Milan because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Washington this time of year.

It's quite cold in Washington in the winter. The weather in Milan can be very cold. Milan is much warmer than Washington in the winter. The daily temperature in Milan averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Washington fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

Milan usually receives less sunshine than Washington during winter. Milan gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Milan usually receives around the same amount of rain as Washington. Milan gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Milan or Washington in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Milan as well as Washington. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Milan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Washington for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Milan is around the same temperature as Washington. Typically, the spring temperatures in Milan in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Washington averages at about 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. In the spring, Milan often gets less sunshine than Washington. Milan gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 228 hours of full sun.

Milan usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Washington. Milan gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Washington and Milan