What to see in Milan: city of fashion, art and the Italian economy

Milan is known as the "city of fashion" but it is also the beating heart of the Italian economy. Dynamic and fascinating, it is the ideal destination for a weekend dedicated to art and shopping in the city center. Here is a guide that will show you the monuments of Milan, what to see in Milan and what to do in this vibrant metropolis.

What to see in Milan: panorama of the Lombard capital
What to see in Milan: panorama of the Lombard capital

Visiting Milan: 23 things to do and see

Milan city center is undoubtedly an Italian city that has a lot to offer its tourists. Visiting it, you will soon realize the large number of iconic works and monuments that will leave you totally speechless. If you are wondering what to see in the center of Milan, this is the right guide for you: we will tell you about the points of interest and attractions not to be missed in Milan.

What to visit in Milan: places of interest

To make your stay well organized, we have thought of a guide that can advise you on what to visit in Milan. In this way you can see the most significant things with just a few days available. Before moving on to the complete list, in fact, we want to help you understand what to see in Milan in one day or in several days if you have more time available (it's worth it). We recommend that you visit the museums and palaces where you can also find the major exhibitions in Milan.

Take advantage of the offers of the numerous tours of the Milanese city to visit it with an expert guide of the historic center of Milan. We recommend the half-day tour of the historic center with entry ticket to the Last Supper museum.

The Duomo of Milan

The Gothic cathedral (Milan Cathedral) is the symbol of the city, with its hundreds of spires and external statues, including the famous Madonnina. It is the fourth largest church in the world and has a capacity of 40.000 seats. Arriving at the top of the Duomo, by elevator or stairs, you can admire the city of Milan from above. Don't miss a visit to the Cathedral Museum and terraces of the cathedral.

If you intend to visit the Duomo and the terraces, we advise you to purchase tickets before going to the venue . You will avoid further waste of time and you will skip the line for the visit to the Milan Cathedral which very often is formed due to the large number of visitors.

Milan Cathedral - Photo by Dimitris Vetsikas
Milan Cathedral – Photo by Dimitris Vetsikas

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

La Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is located next to the Duomo, in Piazza Duomo. It is often called “the living room of Milan” and is one of the commercial places par excellence of the Lombard city. Its mosaic floor makes it truly unique. In the gallery you will find cafes, starred restaurants and many boutiques.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II Milan - Photo by Dimitris Vetsikas
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II Milan – Photo by Dimitris Vetsikas

Castello Sforzesco

Il Castello Sforzesco, Also known as milan castle, is located in the centre of Milan and represents one of the mete essential in the list “Milan what to see”. The Sforza Castle is one of the main symbols of Milan and its history. It was built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, who had recently become Duke of Milan, on the remains of a previous fortification dating back to the 14th century known as Castrum Porte Jovis (Castle of Porta Giovia or Zobia), and over the centuries it has undergone significant transformations.

Between the 1890th and 1905th centuries it was one of the main military citadels in Europe; restored in historicist style by Luca Beltrami between XNUMX and XNUMX, it is now home to important cultural institutions and a tourist destination. It is one of the largest castles in Europe. Inside you will find the Civic Museums of the Castle and works of art: the Sforza Castle is the ideal place to spend a few hours away from the chaos of the city, without having to leave the city center. We recommend the visit with audio guide or sforza castle guided tour.

Sforzesco Castle Milan
Sforzesco Castle Milan

Teatro alla Scala

Il Teatro alla Scala, also known only as “La Scala”, is the first theater in Milan. Located near the Vittorio Emanuele II gallery, it was inaugurated on 3 August 1778 with the staging of the opera "Europe recognized“, by Antonio Salieri. An artistic and cultural reference point not only in Italy but throughout the world. A Museum is set up inside the Theater. Possibility of la scala milan guided tour of the Teatro alla Scala and the adjoining Museum.

Teatro alla Scala Milan - Photo by Dimitris Vetsikas
Teatro alla Scala Milan – Photo by Dimitris Vetsikas

Brera and Art Gallery

Brera it's the artists' quarter and definitely brings to mind the vibe of Paris. Painting enthusiasts will be able to immerse themselves in the works of Italian and foreign artists during their visit to the Pinacoteca di Brera, key point of the list “Things to do in Milan".

Brera Art Gallery - Photo by Dimitris Vetsikas
Brera Art Gallery – Photo by Dimitris Vetsikas

6 Gallery of modern art in Milan

La Modern art gallery of Milan is located in the space of Villa Reale; inside you can find works of art dating back to the 800th century.

Gallery of Modern Art of Milan at Villa Reale
Gallery of Modern Art of Milan at Villa Reale

7 Last Supper

Il Last Supper It is the heritage of theUnesco and it is one of the absolute masterpieces in the history of art. Being able to observe “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci will prove to be a truly unforgettable experience. We recommend purchasing the Fast-track entry ticket and guided tour Il Cenacolo It is located in the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, another iconic monument of Milan.

Leonardo's Last Supper, Milan
Leonardo's Last Supper, Milan

8 Ambrosiana Art Gallery, Milan

The big Lombard library founded by the cardinal Frederick Borromeo it was one of the first that was opened to public reading thanks to the gesture of an illustrious patron (1609). It was conceived by the founder as a center of study and culture: he in fact wanted other institutions such as the College of Doctors,Academy of Fine Arts , picture gallery. The first president was the painter Giovan Battista Crespi ditto the Cerano. The new institution, at the beginning, had a flourishing life: illustrious architects, painters and sculptors joined it, such as Biffi, Mangone, Procaccini, morazzone, Daniele Crespi, Fog; but later it declined, until, in 1776, it ceased to exist. Piazza Pio XI, 2 20123 Milan.

Ambrosiana Art Gallery, Milan
Ambrosiana Art Gallery, Milan

9 San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore

La San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore and its annex Archaeological Museum it is located on Corso Magenta, at number 13, not far from the Duomo. For about ten centuries, until the end of the 1700s, it represented the church of the most important female monastery in Milan, also very important for its fresco cycles, so much so that it earned the title of "Sistine Chapel in Milan“. Inside it is possible to admire XNUMXth century works of Bernardino Luini and his sons Aurelio, Evangelista and Giovan Pietro, of Boltraffio and Simone Peterzano. The complex was built in a very important area of ​​the city since Roman times, close to the surrounding walls and the circus area, not far from the imperial palace. The Church of San Maurizio consists of a rectangular nave, divided by a partition into two distinct rooms, intended respectively for the faithful and the cloistered nuns. In the cloister, now used as the headquarters of the Archaeological Museum, it is possible to see two Roman towers, preserved intact up to the roof, a square one from which the horse races in the circus started (the memory of which remains in the current Via Circo) and the other, polygonal with twenty-four sides, belonging to the circle of walls, both from the end of the 10.00rd - beginning of the 11.00th century AD. The two towers were saved from destruction as they were incorporated into the monastery. The church is open from Tuesday to Sunday; the entry times for groups are established and correspond to the following: 12.00 am; 14.15; 15.15; 16.15pm; 60pm; XNUMXpm for a maximum of XNUMX minutes.

Church of San Maurizio al Monastero, Milan - Photo Museionline.info
Church of San Maurizio al Monastero, Milan – Photo Museionline.info

10 Capuchin Museum of Milan

Il Capuchin Museum of Milan presents works of art (many still unpublished) coming both from the Order's archive and from some of the numerous fraternities located in Lombardia. The Museum presents the thought and activity of the Capuchins, the cultural and religious context in which they operated, inserted in broad paths of the tradition and history of Milan.

Capuchin Museum in Milan
Capuchin Museum in Milan

These are just some of the main monuments that we recommend you visit in Milan if you only have one day available. If your stay is longer, however, we suggest you add other places to your tour and include them in your list: “Milan what to visit".

11 Must-See Museums in Milan: 23 Proposals

The city of Milan offers a considerable number of art exhibitions and the museums where you can admire the masterpieces of today and yesterday are equally widespread. There are museums in Milan, moreover, which collect bizarre and not very widespread collections. Here you are 23 proposals:

  1. Musical instrument museums;
  2. Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology;
  3. San Siro Museum;
  4. Municipal photographic archive;
  5. Aquarium and Civic Hydrobiological Station;
  6. Current Movement Foundation;
  7. Museo del Novecento;
  8. Drawing Cabinet;
  9. Braidense National Library;
  10. Archaeological Museum;
  11. Civic Museum of Natural History;
  12. Galleries of Italy;
  13. Boschi Di Stefano house museum;
  14. “G. Collection Lorenzo";
  15. Collection of Achille Bertarelli prints;
  16. Martinitt and Stelline Museum;
  17. Villa Necchi Campiglio;
  18. Regional Museum of Psychiatry;
  19. Zucchi collection museum;
  20. Morando Palace;
  21. Palazzo Arese-Litta;
  22. Museum of the Risorgimento;
  23. Studio Francesco Messina Museum.

With Milan Card you can take advantage of discounts at dozens of affiliated restaurants, shops, museums and shows. Enjoy free access to museums, choose your preferred transportation option and much more. Validity: 48 hours.

Museo del Novecento in Milan
Museo del Novecento in Milan

12 The Navigli of Milan

I Navigli they represent one of the most intimate and romantic areas of Milan. You can spend an evening with friends or enjoy a walk as a couple, among shops and clubs, surrounded by a magical and bohemian atmosphere. Navigli Milan, how to get there: You can easily reach the Navigli thanks to the green metro. If you are in the Duomo area, we recommend a walk of about 30 minutes following the dock: you won't regret it!

The Navigli of MilanThe Navigli of Milan

13 Astronomical Museum and Botanical Garden of Brera

The Astronomical Museum-Botanical Garden of Brera is testimony to the work of safeguarding and valorising the historical, scientific and cultural heritage undertaken by the University of Milan in Palazzo Brera. For over twenty years the structure has offered specific activities aimed at schools and citizens: guided tours, multimedia conferences, observation evenings, botanical painting and astronomy workshops. Astronomical Museum opening hours, from Monday to Friday ((non-holidays) 9.00 -16.30. Botanical Garden opening hours (not holidays): from 1 September to 31 October Mon – Fri 9.00 – 12.00 and 14.00 -17.00 – Sat. 10.00-17.00; from 1 November to 31 January Mon – Fri 9.00 – 12.30 – Sat. 10.00-16.00; from 1 February to 30 June Mon – Fri 9.00 – 12.00 and 14.00 -17.00 – Sat. 10.00-17.00; from 1 July to 31 August Mon – Fri 9.00 – 12.00 and 14.00 -16.00 – Sat. 10.00-16.00.  Via Brera, 28.

Brera Botanical Garden - Photos of the Green and Landscape Festival
Brera Botanical Garden – Photos of the Green and Landscape Festival

14 Botanical museum herbarium

In 1982, the institute of Botanical Sciences of the University of Milan is incorporated into the Department of Biology, where the Botanical Museum. The rich botanical collection housed there includes ancient herbaria from university or personal collections of scientists who, from 1871 to the present day, have contributed to enriching the original core of the collection. The Museum collaborates with the Civic Museum of Natural History of Brescia, Civic Museum of Natural History ed Bergamo Botanical Garden.

Botanical Museum - Photo Museum Milan
Botanical Museum – Photo Museum Milan

15 Diocesan Museum of Milan

Il Diocesan Museumor rises in the frame of the cloisters of Sant'Eustorgio, an integral part of one of the oldest monumental complexes in Milan, made up of the unitary ensemble of the basilica and the Dominican convent, which flourished over the centuries in an area significant for the history of Milanese Christianity. On the Piazza Sant'Eustorgio the legendary source in which can still be found today Saint Barnabas around the middle of the XNUMXst century he baptized the first Milanese, giving rise to the local church. The basilica is also linked to the legend of the relics of the Magi, which arrived from the East with the Bishop Eustorgius and to the cult of Saint Peter Martyr, the Dominican who lived in the convent around the middle of the XNUMXth century, an anti-Cathar preacher and fierce inquisitor.

Diocesan Museum of Milan - Photo CorsiCorsari
Diocesan Museum of Milan – Photo CorsiCorsari

16 Park of the Roman amphitheater and “Alda Levi” Antiquarium, Milan

The Park of the Roman amphitheater e antiquarium it is located in an extensive green space in the heart of Milan. Open since 2004, they show the historical-archaeological richness of an ancient neighborhood Mediolanum developed near the main road Mediolanum-Ticinum. The archaeological park preserves a portion of the foundations of the Roman amphitheater (XNUMXst-XNUMXth century AD), while in the exhibition space significant finds and multimedia installations tell the story of the characteristics of the arena's shows and the evolution of the south-west area of ​​the city from Protohistory to the Late Middle Ages.

Park of the Roman Amphitheater and Antiquarium Alda Levi in ​​Milan
Park of the Roman Amphitheater and Antiquarium Alda Levi in ​​Milan

17 Interactive Museum of Cinema, Milan

Il Interactive Museum of Cinema (MIC), is a project by Italian Cineteca Foundation and Lombardy Region-Culture. There Film library stands in the area of ​​the former Manifattura Tabacchi, where the offices and management of the Foundation have also been located for some years. Small and precious, high intensity. A small to medium space, through microelectronics, is just the right size for an hour – an hour and a half cognitive, emotional and playful experience on the three themes where the MIC has special things to show. Viale Fulvio Testi, 20162 Milan.

Interactive Museum of Cinema, Milan
Interactive Museum of Cinema, Milan

18 Dock of Milan

La Dock of Milan it is the ancient port of Milan. Meeting point between Naviglio Grande and the Naviglio Pavese, today it is the heart of Milanese nightlife and liveliness Milan nightlifeDarsena in Milan, how to get there: you can easily reach the dock on foot, by subway or by bus.

Darsena of Milan - Photo by Francesco Sciolti
Darsena in Milan – Photo by Francesco Sciolti

19 Milan fashion district

Il Quadrilateral of fashion is absolutely the luxury shopping district of Milan. The heart of this district is via Montenapoleone, but don't forget to also explore Via della Spiga e Corso Venezia. The big names await you for a day of relaxation and shopping in one of the key points on the travel list "Milan what to do".

Via Montenapoleone, Milan
Via Montenapoleone, Milan

Milan in pills: how to move, how to get there, where to eat, where to sleep

20 How to get to Milan

Sand you want to reach Milan without using the car, you can opt for the train, arriving at Milan Central Station. Alternatively, you can travel by plane and land at one of the two airports, Milan Malpensa o Milan Linate. Whichever means of transport you decide to use, connections from the station or the two airports are well served thanks to buses and the metro.

Milan Central Station - Photo by Giorgio Maria Zinno
Milan Central Station – Photo by Giorgio Maria Zinno

21 How to get around Milan

A Milan we advise you to move using the service Milan subway which serves the whole city in a truly efficient manner. Alternatively we recommend using the tram and public land transport.

Council: visit the city with a tram tour.. Taxis are not exactly cheap, as in many Italian cities. If you want to travel by car, you can also consider using a rental such as car sharing.

Tram in Milan - Photo by Nino Carè
Tram in Milan – Photo by Nino Carè

22 Where to eat in Milan

For a good lunch or a delicious dinner at Milan we advise you to look for a typical restaurant that will allow you to enjoy a traditional saffron risotto with braised veal or a cutlet. Obviously there is no shortage of star chefs and international cuisines, in the restaurants in Milan, for those who want to combine a cultural visit with a high-quality culinary journey.

Milanese risotto with ossobuco
Milanese risotto with ossobuco

23 Where to sleep in Milan

Milan, where to sleep: any area is suitable to choose yours hotel in Milan, since with the connections you can easily move throughout the city. You can stay in Brera or on the canals, or opt for a hotel in the center, near the Duomo. If you are instead looking for a neighborhood surrounded by greenery, head towards the Parco Sempione area. Pay attention to the hot periods in Milan, such as the Furniture Fair (in April) or during the Christmas period with the Oh Bej! fair Oh Bej! of Sant'Ambrogio, patron saint of the city (7 December) which in fact anticipates the long weekend of the Immaculate Conception.

Hotel Milano Scala
Hotel Milano Scala

If you're in a hurry and want to find out what to see in Milan, here's what to do

Milan is a city rich in culture, history and modernity. Even with little time available, you can visit some of its main attractions, from the Duomo to the art galleries, without losing the essence of the metropolis.

What to see in Milan in half a day

If you only have a few hours available, Milan is still a city that manages to offer a lot. For a quick but complete itinerary, start your visit from Duomo, the beating heart of the city. Its majestic Gothic facade will leave you speechless, and if you have time, go up to the terraces for a spectacular panoramic view of Milan and its skyscrapers. A few steps away, you will find the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the oldest and most luxurious galleries in the world, famous for its mosaics and the shops of the main international fashion brands. Don't forget to stop in one of the historic cafés for an espresso. After visiting the Duomo and the Galleria, head towards the Castello Sforzesco, an imposing fortress that tells the story of medieval and Renaissance Milan. The castle hosts museums and temporary exhibitions, offering a perfect balance between culture and history, ideal for a half-day visit.

What to see in Milan today

If you are in Milan for a day and want to make the most of your time, here is a perfect itinerary that includes some of the city's most iconic attractions. Start your day with a visit to the Duomo, the symbol of the city, and take it as a starting point to explore the heart of Milan. After visiting the cathedral, you cannot miss a walk in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, where historic architecture meets luxury boutiques and gourmet restaurants. Another must-see in Milan is the Teatro alla Scala, one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world. If you are a culture buff, book a visit to the Museo della Scala to discover the history of this incredible theater. In the afternoon, visit the ships, one of the liveliest and most fascinating areas of Milan, where you can stroll along the canals and enjoy the bohemian atmosphere. Here you will also find numerous bars and restaurants where you can stop for an aperitif.

What to see in Milan in one day

Milan in one day? It is possible if you plan a targeted itinerary. After visiting the Duomo , Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, head towards the Pinacoteca di Brera, one of the most important art galleries in Italy, where you can admire works by artists such as Caravaggio, Raphael and Piero della Francesca. In the afternoon, you can't miss the Castello Sforzesco, with its large park that offers a quiet break from the frenetic pace of the city. If you are a lover of contemporary art, visit the Museo del Novecento to discover the works of artists such as Picasso, Kandinsky and Modigliani. At the end of the day, head towards the ships, a neighborhood rich in history and charm, ideal for a last stroll and an aperitif in one of the many characteristic bars. Milan, with its mix of art, fashion and history, will surely leave you with an indelible memory.

What to see in Milan in 3 days

With three days at your disposal, Milan offers you a wide range of experiences to live.
First day: start your visit with the Duomo, where you can admire the majesty of the cathedral and enjoy a spectacular view from the terrace. Then visit the Cathedral Museum to discover the history of this iconic structure. In the afternoon, explore the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and if you are a shopping enthusiast, take advantage of the luxury boutiques. Don't forget to visit the Teatro alla Scala, one of the temples of classical music.

Second day:
dedicate the second day to culture. Visit the Pinacoteca di Brera, one of the most prestigious galleries in Italy, and admire works of art by great masters. After lunch, head to the Castello Sforzesco for a visit to the museums and to walk in the park that surrounds it. In the late afternoon, discover the ships, an ideal area for a relaxing stroll along the canals, among art galleries, vintage shops and restaurants.

Third day:
take advantage of this day to explore the less touristic but equally fascinating areas. Don't miss the Fashion Quadrilateral, the heart of Milan's shopping, where you can do some shopping or simply stroll among the boutiques. End the day with a visit to the San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, famous for its frescoes and for being one of the most peaceful places in Milan. Finally, relax at the Parco Sempione, where you can enjoy some peace and quiet before leaving.

In conclusion, Milan offers a wide range of attractions not to be missed, from its iconic monuments such as the Duomo and the Castello Sforzesco, to its world-famous museums such as the Pinacoteca di Brera and the National Museum of Science and Technology Leonardo da Vinci. Whether you are interested in art, history, fashion or gastronomy, Milan's historic centre and its surrounding neighbourhoods have something to offer every visitor. Don't forget to explore the city's museum houses and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the ships. With a well-planned itinerary, you can discover the best of this fascinating Italian city in just a few days.

Milan, where to sleep: any area is suitable for choosing your hotel in Milan, since with the connections you can easily move around the city. You can stay in Brera or on the Navigli, or opt for a hotel in the center, near the Duomo. If you are looking for a neighborhood surrounded by greenery, orient yourself towards the area of Parco Sempione. Be careful during hot periods in Milan, such as the Furniture Fair (in April) or during the Christmas period with the Christmas fair Oh Bej! Oh Bej! of Sant'Ambrogio, patron saint of the city (December 7) which in fact anticipates the bridge of the immaculate.

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