Milan, Italy’s fashion capital, is one of Europe’s most iconic cultural and shopping destinations. With a unique blend of historic beauty, modern sophistication, and vibrant nightlife, this city has something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking to explore some of the world-renowned sights and attractions or just want to soak up the atmosphere in one of the trendiest cities on earth, Milan is sure to delight you. From art galleries to designer stores, there’s plenty to see and do in this exciting city. To help you make the most out of your stay in Milan, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 things to see and do in this incredible destination.
The Duomo
The Duomo, or Milan Cathedral, is the city’s most iconic and well-known landmark. This Gothic cathedral took nearly six centuries to complete and is the fifth-largest cathedral in the world. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Milan, with over 6 million visitors each year.
The Duomo is covered in more than 3,000 statues and 135 spires, the tallest of which reaches a height of 108.5 meters. The interior is stunning, with an intricate marble floor and stunning frescoes on the walls and ceiling.
The Duomo is also home to many important artworks (a collection of 4000 statues, gargoyles, and figures, to be precise) including the Holy Nail relic, believed to be used for the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
There is much to see and do at the Duomo, including visiting the roof terraces for spectacular views of the city, going inside to see the lavish interior decoration, or attending mass. The Duomo is also a popular spot for taking photos, so make sure to have your camera ready!
Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper
One of the most famous paintings in the world, The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci is a must-see while in Milan. The painting is located at the Santa Maria Delle Grazie church, and tickets must be booked in advance.
The Last Supper is a mural painting that measures 15 feet (4.58 meters) high and 29 feet (8.84 meters) wide, which makes it an incredibly large piece of art. It depicts the moment when Jesus announced to his apostles that one of them would betray him soon.
Historical Significance. This painting is significant in the history of art because it was the first painting to depict a narrative scene with a group of people in conversation. Additionally, it has served as a source of inspiration for many artists throughout the centuries and its influence can be seen in various works around the world today.
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the world’s oldest shopping malls and a major tourist attraction in Milan. The Galleria is named after Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of unified Italy, and features two glass-roofed arcades intersecting in an octagon. The mall is home to high-end shops as well as cafes, restaurants, and bars.
The Galleria was built between 1865 and 1867 and was the first structure of its kind in Italy. It has a neoclassical architectural style with a large central octagonal space surrounded by four glass-roofed arcades. The outermost arcade is lined with luxury boutiques such as Prada, Louis Vuitton, Bottega Veneta, and Gucci. The inner arcades are home to cafes, restaurants, and bars.
The Galleria also features several monuments such as the Statue of Victor Emmanuel II, which stands at the center of the octagon; two equestrian statues of King Victor Emmanuel I and Carlo Alberto by Giuseppe Grandi at the entrance; two bronze lion statues by Vincenzo Vela which flank either side of the Galleria’s main entrance; and a monument dedicated to Giuseppe Mengoni who designed the Galleria.
The Galleria is also known for its iconic mosaic flooring which features several symbols including the royal crest of Savoy, Milan’s emblem (the red cross), images from Greek mythology such as Marsyas being flayed by Apollo, and geometric patterns.
The Galleria appears in many films set in Milan and is a popular tourist destination. It also hosts several cultural events and art exhibitions throughout the year.
La Scala
Milan is home to one of the most famous opera houses in the world, La Scala. Founded in 1778, La Scala has been host to some of the greatest operatic talents in history including Giuseppe Verdi, Maria Callas, and Placido Domingo. A visit to La Scala is a must for any opera lover and even if you’re not particularly interested in opera, the building itself is worth a visit. Take a tour of the theatre or simply admire the exterior which is lit up at night.
The theatre itself is an example of classic Italian architecture with its façade featuring a grand portico and Corinthian columns. Inside, you’ll find two tiers of boxes, the royal box which was reserved for the King and Queen of Italy until 1946, and the more recent royal box which is now used for state occasions.
La Scala puts on performances throughout the year and tickets can be bought through the theatre’s website or at the box office. It also hosts several events such as concerts and recitals outside of opera season. Be sure to check out their calendar to see what’s on during your visit.
Castello Sforzesco
The Castello Sforzesco is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Milan. This massive castle was built in the 15th century by Duke Francesco Sforza, and it has been home to many of Milan’s rulers over the centuries.
The castle complex includes several museums, as well as beautiful courtyards and gardens. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and see artworks by Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and other famous artists.
Today, the Castello Sforzesco is a popular destination for families and couples alike. The castle hosts many events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and markets. Visitors can also take part in guided tours around the grounds or explore on their own.
Parco Sempione
If you’re looking for a green oasis in the heart of Milan, look no further than Parco Sempione. This beautiful park is perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic on a sunny day. The park is home to the iconic Arch of Peace, as well as the Santa Maria Delle Grazie, which contains Leonardo da Vinci’s world-famous painting “The Last Supper”.
In addition to its stunning monuments and architecture, Parco Sempione is also a great place to people watch or enjoy a game of tennis or soccer. There’s something for everyone in this lovely park!
Parco Sempione is a must-see for anyone visiting Milan. With its lush greenery, historic monuments, and wide range of activities, this park is sure to make your visit to the city unforgettable.
Navigli
The Navigli are a series of canals in Milan that were originally built for irrigation and transportation purposes. Today, they are a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a unique way to experience the city.
There are two main navigable canals in Milan: the Naviglio Grande and the Naviglio Pavese. The Naviglio Grande is the older of the two, dating back to the 11th century. It runs from the Darsena (a large artificial dock on the south side of Milan) to the Porta Ticinese (a gate in the ancient city walls).
Along its route, it passes through some of Milan’s most iconic landmarks, including the Duomo and Sforza Castle.
The Naviglio Pavese, on the other hand, was built in the 16th century and runs from Porta Romana to Porta Ticinese. Unlike the Naviglio Grande, which is lined with buildings and bridges, the Naviglio Pavese is flanked by green parks and trees. This makes it a popular spot for walking, jogging, and cycling.
Both navigable canals are connected to a series of smaller canals, known as the “Navigli minori.” These provide a scenic way to explore some of Milan’s less-touristed neighborhoods.
No matter which canal you choose to explore, a stroll along the Navigli is sure to be a memorable experience
The Brera District
The Brera District is one of Milan’s most popular tourist destinations, and for good reason. This charming neighborhood is home to a number of iconic sights, including the Pinacoteca di Brera art museum and the Gothic church of Santa Maria Delle Grazie. Other highlights include the Palazzo Brera, an 18th-century palace that now houses the Accademia di Belle Arti di Brera, and the impressive Palazzo Marino, the seat of Milan’s city government.
There’s plenty to do in the Brera District, from wandering through the narrow streets and admiring the beautiful architecture to enjoying an aperitivo on one of the charming piazzas. There are also plenty of lively bars and cafés, art galleries, and designer boutiques to explore. With its vibrant atmosphere and array of attractions, it’s no wonder that this district is one of Milan’s main draws.
Whether you’re interested in art, or history, or simply want to enjoy a stroll through one of Milan’s most beautiful neighborhoods, the Brera District is sure to delight.
San Siro Stadium
San Siro Stadium is one of the most iconic stadiums in the world and is a must-see for any football fan. It is the home of both AC Milan and Inter Milan, two of Italy’s biggest football clubs.
The stadium has a capacity of over 80,000 and has hosted some of the biggest games in European football. A tour of the stadium is a great way to learn about its history and see some of the behind-the-scenes areas.
The stadium is situated in a huge park, which features lots of attractions such as a lake, an amusement park, and many restaurants and bars. There are also some nearby shops and a museum dedicated to AC Milan. Visitors can also take part in tours of the changing rooms and dugouts, as well as the press room where post-match interviews take place.
Golden Triangle
Milan’s Golden Triangle is the area between Via Montenapoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Venezia. This is where you’ll find the city’s most fashionable shops and boutiques. If you’re looking to do some serious shopping while in Milan, this is the place to be.
The area is filled with designer stores, luxury labels, and exclusive boutiques. It’s also the home of the world-famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a historic shopping mall that dates back to the late 19th century. The Golden Triangle has become a popular tourist destination in recent years and is one of the best places to go shopping in Milan.
In addition to being a shopper’s paradise, the Golden Triangle is also home to some of Milan’s most iconic sights and attractions. The grand Duomo di Milano, for example, is located here, as well as the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – one of the world’s oldest shopping malls. There are also plenty of high-end restaurants and bars in the area if you need a break from all the shopping.
Cascina Cuccagna
Cascina Cuccagna is one of Milan’s most popular tourist attractions. Situated in the heart of the city, this former farmhouse has been converted into a stylish restaurant, bar, and event space. Visitors can enjoy views of the picturesque surroundings from the outdoor terrace, or sip on a cocktail inside the chic interior. The menu features traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist, making it the perfect place to sample some of the best cuisines that Milan has to offer.
Cascina Cuccagna is also home to a museum, which tells the story of the farmhouse and the surrounding area. From the history of the original owners to the transformation of Cascina Cuccagna into a popular meeting spot for locals and tourists alike, this museum offers a comprehensive look at this beloved location.
Beyond its restaurant, bar, and museum, Cascina Cuccagna also offers an array of events and activities. From open-air cinema screenings to live music performances, there’s something for everyone here. Visitors can even take part in art workshops or yoga classes – making Cascina Cuccagna a great choice for those looking for an exciting day out.
Conclusion
Milan is a city that captures the imagination with its stunning architecture, art galleries, and historical sites. This list of 10 top things to see and do in Milan will give you an idea of just how much there is to explore in this vibrant Italian city.
From taking a leisurely stroll through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II to visiting Leonardo da Vinci’s famous mural The Last Supper, there are so many amazing experiences waiting for visitors who come to Milan. Whether you’re looking for romance or adventure, it’s easy to fall in love with this beautiful metropolis!