A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Windsor vs. Milan for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Attractions

Should you visit Windsor or Milan?

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

Should I visit Windsor or Milan? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Windsor

Windsor is a touristy, beautiful, and royal town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Milan

Milan is a trendy, chic, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Windsor and Milan: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular old town
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Windsor or Milan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Milan. Although Windsor and Milan are both popular with visitors, Milan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Milan is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Windsor is known for its small town charm. Windsor is more touristy than Milan and is popular for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Milan is popular for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. It is also home to Piazza del Duomo.

How is Windsor different from Milan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Windsor
Milan

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Windsor and Milan.

Windsor offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

Many visitors head to Milan specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.


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

Windsor
Milan

Milan is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Milan is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Windsor or Milan Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Milan

Milan is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Is Windsor or Milan Better for Music?

Windsor
Milan

Milan is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Windsor is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Milan The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Windsor is not a live music destination.


Is Windsor or Milan Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Milan

Milan is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Milan?

Windsor
Milan

Milan is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Milan make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Milan Better for Families?

Windsor
Milan

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Windsor or Milan.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Windsor. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Milan offers lots of family activities. 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 Windsor or Milan Better for Couples?

Windsor
Milan

With fun activities for couples, both Windsor and Milan make for a excellent place to visit.

Couples visit Windsor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Milan is a great town 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.

Is Windsor or Milan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Milan

Milan is well known for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Milan is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Milan Better for Students?

Windsor
Milan

Milan is a world-class destination for students. However, Windsor is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Milan. 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.

Windsor is not popular with students.


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

Windsor
Milan

Milan is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Milan can get you around easily. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.

Is Windsor or Milan a more walkable city?

Windsor
Milan

Milan is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Milan on foot is easy. In particular, the city center is walkable.

Windsor is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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

Should I spend more time in Milan or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Milan?

In either Windsor or Milan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Milan than Windsor because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Windsor, and 1-5 days is enough time in Milan.

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

Couples should spend more time in Milan than Windsor. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Milan that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Milan than Windsor 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.


  • How many days in Windsor or Milan? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Milan 1-5

One day in Windsor or Milan?

Even though Windsor is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Because Milan is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Windsor or Milan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Windsor. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Because Milan is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Milan has to offer.

Five days in Windsor or Milan?

Windsor is a fun place to experience. Windsor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Milan is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Milan has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Windsor or Milan?

Windsor is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Milan. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Milan. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Milan or Windsor?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, while the average daily cost in Milan is £142. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Windsor and Milan in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Milan £82
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Milan £164
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Milan

Looking for a hotel in Windsor or Milan? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Windsor


Hotels in Milan


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Windsor Hotel Prices and Milan Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Milan £30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Milan

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Milan:


  • Train to Airport
    £5.99
  • Malpensa Airport Train (for Two)
    £19
  • Taxi From Airport
    £77
  • Public Transit Day Pass
    £3.85
  • Short Taxi Ride
    £6.10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Milan

Also for Milan, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Milan to Bergamo Airport (BGY) - Departure Private Transfer : $46
  • Milan to Como hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $107
  • Airport Transfer: Malpensa Airport MXP to Milan by Luxury Van: $140
  • Arrival Private Transfer Luxury Car LIN airport to Milan: $102
  • Arrival Private Transfer Luxury Van LIN airport to Milan: $81
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Malpensa Airport MXP to Milan in Luxury Van: $139
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Toulouse Airport TLS to Toulouse in Luxury Van: $92
  • BERGAMO ORIO AL SERIO - MILANO airport transfer: $191
  • BERGAMO ORIO AL SERIO - Milano airport transfer with private Luxury Van: $186
  • Basel : Private Transfer to/from Milan Malpensa Airport: $1,016
  • Bellagio : Private Transfer to/from Milan Malpensa Airport: $278
  • Bergamo Airport(BGY) to Val Gardena/Alta Badia - Arrival Transfer: $193

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Milan?

Prices for flights to both Milan and Windsor change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Windsor £39
    Milan £33
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Typical Food Prices in Milan

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Milan:


  • Snack at Train Station
    £7.36
  • Restaurant Pizza
    £5.65
  • Casual Cafe Lunch (for Two)
    £23
  • Three Course Dinner (for Two)
    £55
  • Cappuccino
    £1.39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Milan

For Milan, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • PYT Milano Dinner Show with Live Music and DJ Set: $21
  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $29
  • Milan Gourmet Food Tour and Sightseeing with Local Guide: $38
  • Gourmet Street Food Tour with Sightseeing and Tasting: $45
  • Eating Milan Street Food Tour with Guided Tasting and Sightseeing: $46
  • Tasty Milan Street Food Tour with Local Guide: $46
  • Delicious Milan Street Food Tour Tasting and Sightseeing with Local Guide: $46
  • Devour Milan Street Food Tour and Sightseeing: $46
  • NO DIET CLUB - Best Food Tour in Milan !: $59
  • NO DIET CLUB - Best Food Tour in Milan !: $60
  • Local Market and Cooking Class with an Italian Chef: $70
  • Italian Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Milan £26

Tours and Activities in Windsor

Here are a few actual costs in Windsor for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • 3 Hour Private Tour in Windsor Old Town and Castle: $191
  • From London: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets: $111
  • From Southampton: Bath and Windsor Tour with London Drop-Off: $230
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • Private Tour Windsor, Eton & Hampton Court: $650
  • Private Windsor Town & Guided Castle Walking Tour: $350
  • Private Windsor Walking Tour: $146
  • Royal Windsor & Stonehenge Private Tour: $1,998
  • Royal Windsor Castle Tour Private including tickets: $362
  • Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour from London With Entry Tickets: $126

Typical Entertainment Prices in Milan

For Milan, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Stairs to Duomo Rooftop
    £5.99

Tours and Activities in Milan

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Milan.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • The City Storytelling Experience: Art, History and Myths Come Together: $3.26
  • Milano Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.19
  • Giuseppe Verdi in Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.60
  • Unique Self-Guided Audio Tour on Alessandro Manzoni: $4.60
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour Exploring Age-Old Plants: $4.60
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour Exploring the Famous Five Days: $4.60
  • From Italy eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.81
  • Stories of the Fashion Capital: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Milan: $5.49
  • The Best of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Branca Tower Entrance Ticket: $6.42

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Milan £21

Typical Alcohol Prices in Milan

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Milan:


  • Cocktail at a Bar
    £7.19
  • Beer
    £2.87

Sample the Local Flavors in Milan

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Milan:

  • Wine Tasting Experience in the City Centre: $43
  • Wine Tasting Experience in Milan city centre: $44
  • Milan Wine Tasting Experience: $52
  • Italian Wine Tasting in Milan: $53
  • Milan Wine Tasting Aperitivo: $56
  • Milan Wine Tasting with Italian Sommelier: $86
  • Private Food and Wine Tasting Experience in the Center of Milan: $87
  • Wine Tasting with an Italian Sommelier: $93
  • Best of Guided Tour with Duomo, Food & Wine Tasting: $159
  • Food and Wine Tasting enjoying the New Milan: $164
  • Brescia & Franciacorta Guided Tour with Wine Tasting: $181
  • Brescia and Franciacorta winery area. Cultural and wine tasting small group tour: $184


When comparing the travel costs between Windsor and Milan, we can see that Windsor 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Milan?

Milan has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor and Milan, 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 Windsor or Milan?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Windsor or Milan in the Summer?

Both Milan and Windsor during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Windsor in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Milan for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Windsor is cooler than Milan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Windsor in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Milan averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Milan, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Milan. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milan receives 250 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in July than Milan. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Milan receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Milan 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Milan in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Milan. Most visitors come to Windsor for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Milan because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Windsor is generally cooler than Milan. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 12°C (53°F), and Milan fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Milan during autumn. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Milan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Windsor usually receives less rain than Milan. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Milan receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Milan 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Milan in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Milan. The winter months attract visitors to Windsor because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Milan this time of year.

It's quite cold in Milan in the winter. The weather in Windsor can be very cold. Windsor is cooler than Milan in the winter. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Milan fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Milan. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milan receives 119 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in January than Milan. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Milan receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Milan 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Milan in the Spring?

Both Milan and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Milan for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Windsor is cooler than Milan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Windsor in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Milan averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Milan during spring. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Windsor usually receives less rain than Milan. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Milan receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Milan 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Milan and Windsor

Windsor Milan
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 5°C (41°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (44°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 22°C (72°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (67°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (58°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)