Where to Take Coffee & Gelato Breaks During Milan Design Week

During Milan Design Week, the city will unfold as a living circuit of exhibitions, installations, and creative encounters, drawing visitors from one district to another in a constant flow of discovery. As Brera, Tortona, Isola, and Porta Venezia will each take on their own energy, the experience will extend beyond the venues into Milan’s streets, cafés, and everyday rhythm. Amid this intensity, pauses will become part of the journey itself.  Here is a selection of gelato and coffee spots across Milan will offer the ideal places to slow down and savour the city between design moments:

Pasticceria Marchesi 1824

Founded in 1824, Pasticceria Marchesi 1824 is one of Milan’s oldest pastry houses, now part of the Prada Group. Located in iconic spots such as Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and Via Montenapoleone, it is known for its refined pastries, classic Italian coffee, and elegant historic-meets-modern interiors.

Image courtesy of: marchesi1824

Gelateria della Musica

A well-known artisanal gelato brand recognised for its experimental flavours and high-quality ingredients. With several locations across the city, including the Navigli area, it is a popular stop for those seeking creative takes on traditional Italian gelato.

Image courtesy of: lagelateriadellamusica

Gelato Giusto

Located in the Porta Venezia area, Gelato Giusto is an artisanal gelateria focused on seasonal ingredients and natural production methods. It is widely appreciated for its purity of flavour, minimal processing, and constantly changing selection based on ingredient availability.

Image courtesy of: gelatogiusto

Pavé – La Dolce Ba

A popular Milanese bakery and café near Porta Venezia/Porta Romana, known for its relaxed atmosphere and high-quality baked goods. It offers a mix of Italian classics and modern pastries, making it a favourite spot for coffee breaks during busy city days.

Image courtesy of: pavemilano

A well-established Italian gelato chain founded in Turin in 2003, with multiple locations across Milan. It is known for using natural ingredients without artificial flavourings or colourings, offering a consistent and accessible take on traditional Italian gelato.

Image courtesy of: gromgelato

Between long days of installations and immersive encounters, these places will offer moments of calm within the city’s rhythm. Each pause will become part of the experience itself, where time slows and the essence of the city can be quietly enjoyed.