Most people recognize Milan as the fashion capital of the world. You would be surprised to know that Milan has undergone a tremendous metamorphosis over the ages. Today, Milan attractions offer an experience rich in history, heritage, and culture, all seamlessly blending into modern architecture.
Milan was once the capital of the Western Roman Empire. In the present day, Milan is a sought-after destination among tourists who love to explore the gorgeous buildings, experience the beauty of history, and delve into the cultural richness of the destination. If you are planning a trip to Milan in Italy, here are the top things to do in Milan.
Santa Maria Delle Grazie
The Holy Mary of Grace was built in 1497, and it is the most famous church in Milan, Italy. You would have come across paintings of the Last Supper of Jesus Christ in books or online articles. If you want to see the masterpiece for yourself, the Santa Maria Delle Grazie is one of the best things to see in Milan.
Leonardo da Vinci had painted the Last Supper in the Cenacolo or the refectory of the monastery. Every year, thousands of visitors throng this church as a part of their Milan sightseeing itinerary to see Da Vinci’s masterpiece.
By Marcin Białek, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie, Via Giuseppe Antonio Sassi, 3, 20123 Milan, Italy | Timing: Tuesday to Sunday 8.15 am to 7 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/QqGzT8UvFJjYg31Q6 | Phone Number: 02 467 6111
Milan Cathedral | Duomo di Milano
The Milan Cathedral or Duomo di Milano will transport you to ages behind and let you live ancient history through its timeless beauty. Surrounded by beautiful buildings, this church (Duomo di Milano) is situated in the center of Milan and showcases Italian Gothic architecture magnificence. You would be surprised to know that this Duomo Cathedral’s construction took over 600 years, with the initiation in 1386 and completion in 1965.
If you are someone who loves the mystic associated with centuries-old duomos and cathedrals, include a visit to this beautiful church in Italy to your best things to do in Milan list, and you will thoroughly enjoy the Milan Cathedral. The church must do things in Milan from countless towers, stunning roofs, statues and decorations and stained glass windows, central columns, and breathtaking interiors.
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By NahidSultan, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: P.za del Duomo, 20122 Milano MI, Italy | Timing: Winter Opening Times (November – April) – 09.30 am to 05.15 pm, Summer Opening Times (May-October) – 09:00 am to 05.45 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/qEafDJ6cLCQyAbrKA | Phone Number: +39 02 36169 341
Sforezesco Castle | Castello Sforezesco
Located in the center of Milan, the Sforezesco Castle was by the Visconzi family in 1358 to protect the city from Venice. You can easily reach this monument by taking the Via Dante from the Piazza del Duomo.
One of the top Milan attractions, Castello Sforzesco has been demolished and rebuilt several times. If you are an art lover, this castle is a must-visit for you as this was the center for Leonardo Da Vinci’s workshops in the Renaissance era. If you are a history lover, you can visit the large museums that this castle houses. You can find the Museum of Ancient Art, assorted collections from the Archaeological Museum of Milan, the Egyptian Museum, the Pinacotecadel Castello Sforzesco, the Museum of Musical Instruments, and the Antique Furniture and Wooden Sculpture Museum.
So if you are wondering what to do in Milan, walk around the pier around the Sforezesco Castle. You needn’t purchase tickets as this beautiful museum offers free access to its visitors.
By Diego Baglieri, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: Piazza Castello, 20121 Milano MI, Italy | Timing: Monday to Sunday 07:00 am to 07.30 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/pPNuZHqmJuvusdyk8 | Phone Number: +390288463700
Go Shopping at La Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
The La Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a haven for shopaholics and one of Italy’s most popular Milan attractions.
The Galleria ambiance is mesmerizing with its stunning dome, which is made of glass and iron. One of the most beautiful shopping destinations in Europe, the La Galleria houses the biggest fashion brands you can think of.
It is located just outside the Piazza del Duomo and is a mainstay on the list of things to do in Milan Italy among tourists for clicking photographs. Luminous and stunning, the Galleria buildings are thronged by thousands of tourists throughout the year.
By Romain.pontida, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: P.za del Duomo, 20123 Milano MI, Italy | Timing: 24×7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/fxJvWSU2xDhqsmRp7 | Phone Number: +39-0288455555
Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio
The Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio is situated very close to the Museum of Science and Technology and is usually the next attraction on a tourist’s list after the museum. The first church was built around 379 AD by St Ambrose. This large church offers a beautiful glimpse of Romanesque architecture. Interestingly, the church hasn’t changed much over the years and hence is a wonderful treat for history lovers in Milan.
While the exteriors showcase a front façade and a central courtyard, the interiors are replete with mosaics and artwork. The most striking feature of this church of Milan is the Oratory ceiling, where you can see a breathtaking depiction of Jesus Christ on one of the domes. The Basilica Church is the best place to visit if you want to learn more about Milan’s ancient history and religious heritage.
By Alexey Komarov, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: Piazza Sant’Ambrogio, 15, 20123 Milano MI, Italy | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Fxuhb4ghoKzBtd9d9 | Phone Number: +390286450895
Brera Art Gallery | Pinacoteca di Brera
The Pinacoteca di Brera which translates to Brera Art Gallery in English is a must-visit for art lovers in Milan. This gallery houses the most exquisite art collection in Italy. Situated in the Palazzo Brera, which was earlier a monastery, this art gallery showcases ancient masterpieces such as Raphael’s ”The Marriage of the Virgin” or Caravaggio’s ”Last Supper to Emmaus.”
The gallery spans 40 rooms where the best of art is arranged in chronological order for visitors.
Address: Via Brera, 28, 20121 Milano MI, Italy | Timing: Tuesday to Friday 09:30 am to 06:30 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/VSt8cY66dP9QUwZcA | Phone Number:+39 02 7226 3230
Merchants Square | Piazza de Mercanti
One of the most stunning squares you will come across in Milan, the Piazza de Mercanti or Merchants Square in plain English, showcases some of the most exquisite medieval architecture specimens. In the Middle Ages, this square in Milan used to be the center of all government and commercial activities.
Some of the buildings located on this square include the Pallazo della Ragione which once housed the city’s courts, Loggia degli Osii, which was the center of the notary and judicial activities, the Pallazo delle Scuole Palatine, Casa dei Panigrola, etc.
Address: Piazza dei Mercanti, 20123 Milano MI, Italy | Timing: Temporarily Closed. | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6DvUJTBs9UN6aAnk8 | Phone Number: +39 02 0202
Museo Nazionale Della Scienza e Della Tecnologia ‘ Leonardo Da Vinci
The Museo Nazionale Della Scienza e Della Tecnologia in Milan is dedicated to Leonardo Da Vinci and is the country’s largest science and technology museum. The lar
showcase scientific inventions and interventions in terms of materials, transport, energy, communication, Leanardo da Vinci art and science, new frontiers, and science for young people.
Each department is equipped with a lab making it a great place to visit for students and children. The transport department comprises four different parts: air, rail, water, and Submarine Enrico Toti S-506.
At the museum, you will also find about 30 models ranging from measuring instruments to war machines that have been recreated on the lines of Da Vinci’s designs. The museum offers several floors of experiences and sights, so if you are planning to visit the museum, make sure you set aside at least half a day to walk around and enjoy the views and experiences completely.
By Museo nazionale della scienza e della tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci, Milano, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: Via San Vittore 21, 20123 Milano, Italy | Timing: Temporarily Closed, Please visit www.museoscienza.org for the latest timings. | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/33vYFqFsXpn6oFrN6 | Phone Number: +39 02 48 555 1
Fonderie Milanesi
The Fonderie Milanesi in Italy is an aperitivo acknowledged for delicious dinners, hence one of the top Milan attractions. However, the specialty of the Fonderi Milanesi is its pre-dinner ritual. The place has a story to it. Back in the 19th century, Gaspare Campari started serving aperitifs that would enhance the appetite. The bitter aperitif that Campari served became a legend over the years.
Visitors would be served this aperitif accompanied by delicious nibbles. However, the pier became extremely popular as years rolled by. Today, you can find bars with delicious spreads. Definitely one of the must do things to do in Milan, Italy!
Address: Via Giovenale, 7, 20136 Milano MI, Italy | Timing: Closed on Mondays. Tuesday to Sunday – 07:00 pm to 02:00 am | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/FiccESwARS5yRVxu7 | Phone Number: +390236527913
Milan Archaeology Museum
Are you interested in exploring the history of Milan? The Milan Archaeology Museum is the destination you need to head towards! This museum traces Milan’s journey right from the Middle Ages, the influence of Greek and Etruscan civilization, and showcases a slew of archaeological finds, which include masks, pottery, and much more.
This museum is divided into two parts – the first part will showcase Mediolanum details, and the second part exhibits some stunning artwork and sculptures.
By John Lubbock, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Address: Corso Magenta, 15, 20123 Milano MI, Italy | Timing: Tuesday to Friday 10:00 am to 05.30 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/8VBJhJHu8vGXYWyY7 | Phone Number: +390288445208
Visit the San Siro Stadium
The San Siro Stadium of Milan is the biggest football stadium in Italy and one of the largest in Europe. With two of the most popular football teams across the world – AC Milan and Inter – football’s popularity among the people here is not a surprise. The San Siro stadium has gone several expansions in the earlier half of the 20th century and can today boast of a massive capacity of 80,000 persons.
Furthermore, the San Siro Stadium has also hosted some of the international music industry’s biggest stars, such as Madonna, Beyonce, Coldplay, One Direction, etc.
By Jose Luis Hidalgo R., CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: Piazzale Angelo Moratti, 20151 Milano MI, Italy | Timing: Temporarily Closed. For more details, please visit https://www.stadiumguide.com/sansiro/ for the latest timings. | Google Map Location: https://g.page/sansirostadium?share | Phone Number: +390248798201
Go on an Opera Concert at La Scala
It would be a shame to visit Milan and not visit La Scala – which is the famed Opera House of Milan and most visited Milan tourist attractions. Milan has three opera houses, including the Fenice in Venice, San Carlo Theatre in Naples, and the La Scala. La Scala has been a podium for several of the greatest artists, such as Vincenzo Bellini and Verdi, who have performed their masterpieces here. Besides the La Scala Opera House, you will find the Museum of La Scala, which showcases musical instruments, historical documents, and opera costumes. For a guided tour of the Museum, you must book tickets online.
Similarly, if you want to enjoy an evening of opera in Milan, book your tickets beforehand online.
By Zairon, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: Via Filodrammatici, 20121 Milano, Italy | Timing: Monday-Saturday 12:00 pm to 06:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/9EaAYZ4WKV3XnsAf9 | Phone Number: +39 02 72 003 744
Sempione Park | Parco Sempione
Parco Sempione is a beautiful green stretch and is also referred to as the green lung of the city. Parco Sempione, or the Simplon Park in plain English, offers several experiences to its visitors. From the Civic Aquarium of Milan to The Triennale, which provides a glimpse into Italy’s ancient art and architecture, you can walk around the park and visit the buildings within the park.
The Sempione Park, which is also the largest public park in the city, also houses the Arena Civica – which is a multi-purpose stadium and the Arco della Pace – which was built to signify peace. A visit to this park is definitely on the Milan things to do list.
By 01albertop, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: Piazza Sempione, 20154 Milano MI, Italy | Timing: Daily 06.30 am to 09:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/7TB4YDjyU8anfJY77 | Phone Number: +390288467383
For the hopeless romantic who has been wondering what to do in Milan, the Navigli District is everything that dreams are made of. The brimming canals look stunning against the setting sun, and a meal atop one of the terrace top restaurants is just what one needs to kick back and relax.
The canal system was designed to connect the lakes in the region to the Po, transport goods and water to Milan in Italy. The best time to visit the Navigli district is in the evenings. Watching the day slowly melt down into the golden dusk is a sight that is mesmerizing and titillating.
There could not be a better way of experiencing Milan than a long walk or cycling through the Naviglio Martesana. The Martesana is a canal that connects the River Adda with Lombardy. As you cycle through the picturesque green barns and beautiful homesteads, you can feel your soul reviving and relaxing.
By Carlo54 at Italian Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/5foZvHESd5RqPqy76
Ratana
For a food lover, a visit to Milan can be a gastronomical adventure. Set aside the pizzas and kinds of pasta and delve into the traditional culinary delights at Ratana – one of the most popular restaurants in Milan. Owned and operated by celebrated chef Cesare Battisti, Ratana offers you a culinary journey into the traditional preparations of Lombardy, where rice and meat dishes are an elaborate affair.
The classic Risotoalla Milanese con ossobuco, which translates to saffron risotto with braised veal shank, must try if you visit this restaurant in Milan.
Address: Via Gaetano de Castillia, 28, 20124 Milano MI, Italy | Timing: Daily 12:00 pm to 03:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/RistoranteRatana?share | Phone Number: +390287128855
Monumental Cemetery | Cimitero Monumentalo
You would be surprised to see a cemetery on this list of ‘Milan things to do.’ However, the Cimitero Monumentalo or the Monumental Cemetery is no ordinary cemetery. The Monumental Cemetery of Milan is more like an open-air museum where you can see stunning tombs.
As you enter the cemetery, you can see the list of the important people who have been buried in this cemetery. For most tourists, the cemetery is a surprise because of the art that the people of Milan have built the best graves for their loved ones. From a tomb shaped like a four-poster bed to sculptures of angels, a host of surprises await you at the cemetery.
By Danny-w, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Piazzale Cimitero Monumentale, 20154 Milano MI, Italy | Timing: Daily 08:00 am to 06:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/LiKjGPkqqc7vgDiP6 | Phone Number: +390288465600
QC Terme Milano
QC Terme Milano is the place for you if you desire a relaxing day during your vacation in Milan. The QC Termemilano is a spa that is housed inside a former tram depot. This property is a delight to the senses as there are several saunas and an exquisite tea room on the ground floor. As you explore downstairs, you will come across several stone rooms that offer cold and warm baths, geyser pools, and a Jacuzzi waterfall.
This spa also has three warm pools surrounded by lush green gardens.
By Ghisolabella, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Piazzale Medaglie D’Oro, 2, 20135 Milano MI, Italy | Timing: Temporarily Closed. Please visit https://www.qcterme.com/en/milano/qc-termemilano for the latest timings. | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/V8yryYHUUNWevWY69 | Phone Number: +390255199367
Explore the Graffiti Covered Isola
The graffiti-covered buildings in the neighborhood of Isola in Milan is a treat to the eyes. You can find stunning street art made by commissioned locals. Earlier, Isola was cut off from Milan, but the area has managed to retain its originality despite the Porta Nuova building project, which has opened the area for gentrification.
Walking through these streets that burst into colors is something that you must experience while in Milan.
By Luca Ottonello, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Business Square | Piazza Affairi
The Piazza Affairi or Business Square is an interesting place full of buildings. It is located right in front of the Milan Stock Exchange headquarters. The Piazza Affairi features a giant marble statue – as high as 11 meters – representing a gigantic middle finger. This sculpture called Baptized LOVE stands for Liberta, Odio, Vendetta, Eternita was created by a noted Italian sculptor to mock at the financial institution.
By Stefano Stabile, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Piazza degli Affari, Milan | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/kyLmYYY95D6Di6Mk6
While it is also known as the world’s fashion capital, Milan is a city that you must experience to understand its large heart and spirit truly. If you plan a vacation in Milan, make sure you visit these beautiful locations on our list and indulge yourself in the incredible experiences we have listed out for you.
Happy Journey!