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Milan. Photo by Ank Kumar on

30 Best Things to do in Milan

Milan known as Milano in Italian is a city in northern Italy which is the capital of Lombardy and is the second-most populous city proper in Italy after Rome. Milan city proper has a population of around 1.4 million while the metropolitan city has 3.26 million inhabitants. The city is the fourth largest in the European Union with a population of 5.27 million inhabitants.

Milan is a very attractive place to visit and has witnessed a rise in tourists from all over the world. The city is considered a leading alpha global city with its strengths in the fields of art, chemicals, commerce, design, education, entertainment, fashion, finance, health care, media, services, research and tourism. Milan is a business district that hosts several events and major concerts yearly.

Here are the 30 Best Things to do in Milan;

1. Explore the Navigli Lombardi

Navigli Lombardi, Milan, Italy. Photo by Yannick Pulver yanu on

During your visit to Milan, Navigli canals are one of the best places not to miss out. Navigli is a system of interconnected canals in and around Milan. The canals dated back as far as the Middle Ages.

The Navigli Lombardi consists of five canals that can be well explored. This includes Naviglio Grande, Naviglio Pavede, Naviglio Martesana, Naviglio di Paderno and Naviglio di Bereguardo.

It’s the best place to relax while gliding on the waterway. Moreover, you will witness various historic and striking architecture on both sides of the canals. Naviglio Lombardi can either be visited by booking a modern cruise or by sitting on Venetian Gondola.

2. Admire the Beauty of The Milan Duomo Cathedral

Milano, Duomo with Milan Cathedral and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Photo by Steffen Schmitz on

Milan cathedral is located in the self-named Piazza del Duomo. It’s one of the monumental buildings in Milan. Interestingly, it is well-established for its sublime architecture. The cathedral is the main church of Milan is the Milan Duomo cathedral. Moreover, one of the largest churches in the world and the largest in the Italian Republic. The magnificent cathedral took over Six centuries to complete. The construction of the Milan cathedral began in 1386 and was completed in 1965.

The cathedral is truly a beautiful piece to visit during your visit to Milan. It features Gothic architecture with intricate details and various statues. The interior of the cathedral is more magnificent. It features some beautiful stained glass windows bursting with beautiful colour. One of the features to stare at the cathedral is a small red light bulb in the dome above the apse marking the spot where one of the nails reputedly from the crucifixion of Christ has been placed. Amazingly, the Holy Nail is retrieved and exposed to the public every year. This is during a celebration referred to as the Rite of the Nivola.

The best time to visit the cathedral is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. During these hours it is less crowded.

3. Explore Milan’s Castello Sforzesco

The Castello Storzesco is a medieval fortification. The magnificent castle was built in the fifth century by Francesco Sforza Duke of Milan. However, the original design has been significantly altered. Nevertheless, it still retains its grace and prestige as a powerful object in Milan.

The castle was previously used as a military complex. The Castello is one of the best things you visit during your trip to Milan. The castle features a variety of tiny museums and collections that showcase a wealth of intriguing artefacts and historical details about the castle and Milan.

The museums include the Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of Antique Furniture and Sculpture, and the Applied Arts Collection. For those who would like to visit with their kids, the Castello has museums to pique their curiosity. The museums for your young ones include the Egyptian Museum and the Museum of Musical Instruments.

Address: Piazza Castello, Milan, Italy

Open: Tuesday–Sunday from 7 am to 7.30 pm

Phone: +39 02 8846 3700

4. Drain your Pockets at The Quadrilatero d’Oro

Via della Spiga, in Milan’s Quadrilatero d’Oro fashionable shopping district. Quadrilatero d’Oro (Via della Spiga – Milan). Photo by Sergio Calleja on

Milan is well-established as the capital of fashion. Thus, it is the best place to get all your fashion taste. One of the best places to choose get expensive and chicest shopping in Milan Quadrilatero D’oro. This is one of the best shopping streets in the world and it is also referred to as the Golden rectangle.

Quadrilatero D’oro is a district bounded by four main streets. Every corner is bustling with famous names in Fashion such as Fendi, Gucci, Roberto Cavalli, Ferragamo, Prada, Versace and Cartier. Moreover, Discover the great Italian shoemaker Berluti on Via Sant’Andrea and visit the Armani megastore on Via Alessandro Manzoni.

5. Explore The Gorgeous Royal Palace Of Milan

Do you have a passion for Art? If you do the Royal Palace of Milan is the best place to visit while in Milan. The Royalty Place of Milan used to be the seat of government in the Italia city of Milan for many centuries. However, it serves as a cult centre.

Interestingly, it’s home to the international art exhibition. At the Royal Palace House will find modern and contemporary artworks and famous collections in cooperation with notable museums and cultural institutions from across the world.

 More than 1,500 masterpieces are on display annually. The Royal Palace has held several events and exhibitions of famous artists like Picasso, Monet, and Kandinsky. Apart from the exhibitions, the interior of the palace is worth staring at. Although much of it was destroyed throughout the years, it has been restored to its former glory.

Location: Piazza del Duomo, 12, 20122 Milan, Italy

Open: Monday from 2.30 pm to 7.30 pm, Tuesday–Sunday from 9.30 am to 7.30 pm

Phone: +39 028 846 5230

6. Stroll Around Isola District and Witness Street Art

The house in the foreground is decorated with Street Art. Photo by Jeanne Griffin on

The Isola district in Milan was transformed from an industrial area to an artsy neighbourhood. The art scene of this district is lively with picturesque colours. Moreover, it has numerous secret galleries and well creative spaces. The best way to witness and get a feel of the creative energy of the district is by a street art walking tour.

You can walk through the underground tunnels that connect Isola and Garibaldi metro stations. You will discover imaginative pieces by local graffiti artists. In addition, the Isola has many art galleries that can be considered hidden gems. This is because most spots haven’t been discovered by tourist crowds who flood Milan for its famous art galleries.

One of the hidden galleries is the Don Gallery. The hidden art gallery can be located via Cola Montano. It was established in 2008 by a local street artist, Matteo Donini known as Ghe Don.

The neighbourhood also features trendy cafes, bars and restaurants to relax after your walk tour. The Isola district is easily accessible by metro and just a short walk from the city centre.

7. Experience a Wonderful Performance at La Scala Opera House

La Scala is a famous opera house in Milan and one of the best places to see wonderful performances. The theatre was inaugurated on 3 August 1778. It was originally known as the Nuovo Regio Ducale Teatro alla Scala (New Royal-Ducal Theatre alla Scala). La Scala is one of the largest it has a capacity of over 2,000 spectators.

Interestingly, the seats in La Scala feature monitors for the electronic libretto system. This allows the audiences to follow opera libretti in English and Italian in addition to the original language. La Scala has hosted most of the greatest operatic artists and finest singers from around the world. In addition, the theatre is home to the La Scala Theatre Chorus, La Scala Theatre Ballet, La Scala Theatre Orchestra, and the Filarmonica della Scala orchestra.

The theatre also has an associate school, known as the La Scala Theatre Academy which offers professional training in music, dance, stagecraft, and stage management. During your visit to La Scala, you will also get a chance to learn more about the history of the theatre.

Opening days; Monday to Saturday from 12 noon to 6 pm.

Call: +39 0272 003 744

8. Admire the Architecture at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Triumphal arch of Gallery Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan. Photo by Jakub Hałun on

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of Italy’s oldest active shopping galleries and a major landmark of Milan. The magnificent landmark is housed within a four-story double arcade in the centre of town. It was named after Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of the Kingdom of Italy. Moreover, it was designed in 1861 and built by architect Giuseppe Mengoni between 1865 and 1877.

The awe-inspiring architecture of the structure consists of two glass-vaulted arcades intersecting an octagon covering the street connecting Piazza del Duomo to Piazza della Scala. The street is covered by an arching glass and cast iron roof, a popular design for 19th-century arcades.

Four mosaics are portraying the coat of arms of the capitals of the Kingdom of Italy (Turin, Flounce and Rome) and Milan’s. They are on the ground of the central octagon. Taurus the bull is the most established structure at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Interestingly, you can shop at high-end stores such as Prada and Gucci. Moreover, you can eat at Savini or have a drink at the bar comparino.

9. Explore Medieval Buildings at the Piazza Dei Mercanti

Piazza Mercanti (Merchants Square) is the central city square of Milan. It used to be the heart of the city in the Ages. At the time, the square was larger than it is now known as “Piazza del Broletto”, after the “Broletto Nuovo”, the palace that occupied the centre of the square. The square featured six entry points in the 13th century, each entry was associated with a specific trade, such as sword blacksmiths to hat makers.

Around the square, you will admire several medieval ages and holds several striking and important buildings within its vicinity. The buildings include Palazzo delle Scuole Palatine, which used to be a reputed school for many Milanese legends.

Moreover, a restaurant built in the Gothic style, Casa dei Panigarola. The Palazzo della Ragione is an astounding red-brick building which was previously used as the court of justice and right beneath it used to be the crowded city market.

10. Take a Walk at Parco Sempione

Parco Sempione. Photo by Gipi2706 on

During your tour to Milan, strolling and relaxing at The Parco Sempione is one of the best things to do. The park is located along Northwest Milan. It is suitable for a long walk or running while admiring the picturesque beauty of this large park in Milan.

The park features Various attractions sites for visitors. The Castello Sforzesco is located in this park, moreover, the arch place known as Arco Della Pace was dedicated to the victories of Napoleon.

In addition, the beautiful park is wonderfully landscaped and has a myriad of footpaths, bike trails and wooded areas together with many sculptures and ornate fountains. Moreover, you will find a museum in the park and the Torre Branca which is a huge watch tower that offers panoramic views of Milan.

11. Run Your Adrenaline at one of the Well Known Stadium

The San Siro has hosted various games since 1926. It is one of the premier sporting venues and most renowned Stadiums in the world. San Siro has a capacity of over 80,000.

The well-known teams, AC Milan and Inter Milan play at this wonderful ground and the home game for the team is simply unbelievable. To know more about the history of these well-known Italian clubs you can visit the joint museum to learn the interesting history.

12. Learn and Explore the Past at the Milan Archaeology Museum

Milan Archaeology museum. Photo by Alberto Panzani on

Milan Archaeology Museum is Located in the Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore. It was dedicated to the history of ancient Milan. When you visit the museum during your trip to Milan you will truly get a glimpse of a time long past in Milan.

The museum covers many ages of Milan including the Middle Ages, influences from the Etruscan civilization and also the ancient Greeks. Amazingly, the first part of the same gives details about the history of ancient Mediolanum. Moreover, in the second you will find a selection of artwork and sculptures and archaeological remains, theatrical masks, pottery, and armour.

13. Visit The Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio which is one of the oldest churches in Milan

During your visit to Milan, you can visit one of the oldest churches. Sant Ambrogio is in Piazza Sant’Ambrogio. The church represents a monument of the early Christian and medieval times. Moreover, the church is a fundamental point of the history of Milan and the Ambrosian church.

The medieval time church was constructed between 379 and 386 at the behest of Bishop Ambrose himself. Amazingly, he dedicated the church to the Holy martyrs buried in this church.

During your visit, you are amazed by its simple Romanesque design. Interestingly, the style of the church has not changed much since it was built. Due to its age, the interior of the church features picturesque mosaics and artwork that includes the ceiling of the Oratory.

Moreover, the beautiful depiction of Christ on the domes of two churches. You will get to learn more about the history of Milan in this church and its religious importance.

Location: Piazza Sant’Ambrogio, 15, 20123 Milan, Italy

Open: Monday–Saturday from 10 am to noon and from 2.30 pm to 6 pm, Sunday from 3 pm to 5 pm

Phone: +39 02 8645 0895

14. Adore the Last Supper at Santa Maria Delle Grazie

Cappella della Vergine delle Grazie. Photo by Carlo Dell’Orto on

The famous Last Super Painting is one the best thing not to miss during your visit to Milan. The painting is housed at the Church of Santa Mafia Delle Grazie and the church is a world heritage site.

The legendary artist behind the creative painting was established as Leonardo da Vinci. The painting can be seen on the wall of the church’s dining room. The picturesque painting depicts in all its glory the final dinner of Jesus Christ with his disciples.

In addition, the church itself is a stunning of 15th-century Renaissance Catholic art. To visit the room where this admirable painting is, you need to book the tickets in advance through the convent’s official website as indicated below.

Location: Via Giuseppe Antonio Sassi, Milan, Italy

Open: Daily from 7 am to 12 pm and from 4 pm to 7.30 pm

Phone: +39 02 467 6111

15. Treat Yourself at Albergo Diurno Venezia

At Albergo Diurno Venezia you will have the best spa day. This lesser-known tourist spot was built in 1925, it is used as an unconventional spa that feat 39 bathrooms ranging from average to luxury. At this spot, you will find shaves, manicures and pedicures. Interestingly, the spot also features a post office, a barber shop, flower shops, phone booths, newsstands and a bank.

This is a quirky and unique spot for every tourist to visit to get under the skin of Milan.

16. Explore a Bone Chapel at San Bernardino Alle Ossa

Bone chapel. Photo by G.dallorto on Wikimedia

Have you ever seen a Chapel built of bones? If not you will witness one at San Bernardino alle Ossa. This a Catholic Church dating from 1145. However, the original church was destroyed by a fire but it was rebuilt in 1776.

The church might not attract you from the outside but the inside of this church will do. It is well known for its ossuary or bone chapel. The chapels are entirely decorated with human bones. The reason why it was decorated with human bones is beautiful in 1210 the cemetery adjacent to the church ran out of space.

Thus, the bones of the dead were stored in a room that was specifically built for this purpose. You cannot miss experiencing this dramatic sight during your visit. It is free to visit and the ossuary can be found on the right to the main church.

Location: Piazza Santo Stefano, 20122 Milano MI, Italy

Open: Monday–Friday from 8 am to 6 pm, Saturday from 9.30 am to 6 pm (closed on Sundays)

Phone: +39 (0)2 76 00 81 45

17. Taste the Delicious Dishes of Milan

Milan is well known for its range of local dishes that you should try while in this beautiful city. Most of these dishes are hearty and some can be available due to winter when the temperatures are cooler. Boiled and stewed meat is more popular in this city.

Grana Padano is the most famous cheese along with local salami. Risotto alla Milanese is another delicious dish not to miss. This a true Milanese classic. The golden yellow colour of this dish comes from the saffron cooked with it. It can be served alone or with roasted bone marrow. You can also try the Ossobuco dish and many more.

18. Explore the Best Public Gallery in Milan

Room in the Pinacoteca di Brera. Photo by Danielle Jansen on

Pinacoteca di Brera or Brera Art Gallery is one the best Public Gallery art museum in Milan. The gallery is dedicated to Italian paintings from the 13th century. In this museum, you will come across various works of well-established artists such as Rachel Bramantino and Mantegana. This a museum not to miss for art lovers.

Opening Hours and Days

Tuesday – Wednesday – Thursday – Friday – Saturday – Sunday: 8.30 am-7.15 pm (last entrance at 6 pm)

Every third Thursday of the month: 8:30 a.m. to 10:20 p.m. (last admission at 9 p.m.)

Closed every 1st January and December 25th

Call: +02 721 04151

19. Relax at the Cathedral Square

Piazza del Duomo is an immense open public space situated near the Duomo cathedral. The square features impressive architecture and sculptures. At the square, you will have a magnificent view of the cathedral and the surrounding buildings. The square has picturesque statues to view including the First King of United Italy, Vittorio Emanuel. In addition, there are a host of high-end shops, bars and restaurants. You can also enjoy a coffee whilst relaxing at The square.

20. Peck is Referred to as a Temple of Italian Food

A delicious meal. Photo by Vaselineeeeee on

Peck may be the holiest place in Milan that you may have not visited during your stay or if you planning to visit you should include this in your notes. Peck is referred to as the temple of Gastronomy in Milan. The temple of Italia food uses the best raw ingredients to serve the best and most tasty dishes. At Peck, you will find delicious cuts of meat and vegetables, cheese and sandwiches.

21. Discover Interactive Exhibits at The Leonardo da Vinci National Museum

During your visit to Milan city, you can explore the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology. The museum is one of Milan’s most inspiring and engaging historical sites. The museum offers interactive and educational exhibits.

It offers real-life 3D realisations of da Vinci’s mechanical designs, aviation, particle physics and locomotion. Moreover, you can admire its external Renaissance monastery. Your kids will always enjoy a visit to this museum by exploring the life-size World War II submarine.

Location: Via San Vittore, Milan, Italy

Open: Tuesday–Friday from 9.30 am to 5 pm, Saturday–Sunday from 9.30 am to 6.30 pm

Phone: +39 02 485551

22. Walk Through Milan’s Charming District of Brera

A street on Brera. Photo by Paolobon140 on

Brera is a Charming neighbourhood in Milan. Moreover, one of the most picturesque neighbourhoods in the city’s historical zone. Brera features an academy of fine arts and an art gallery, that explains its artistic vibe. While strolling through the district you come across vendors selling arts and antiques at Brera’s flea market. The streets of this beautiful neighbourhood are lined with small but stylish cafes and shops.

Location: Via Brera, Milan, Italy

23. Explore an Interesting Collection of Aquatic Exhibits in the Milan Civic Aquarium

During your vacation in Milan, Acquario Civico di Milano( civic Aquarium of Milan) is a good and peaceful spot for families to spend. The spot is a lovely Renaissance building which features several ponds outside. Moreover, its facades feature a Statue of Neptune and busts of various marine creatures. You can also discover tanks featuring a visit of fish, starfish and sturgeon by walking through a small tunnel.

Location: Viale Gadio, 2, 20121 Milan, Italy

Open: Tuesday – Sunday from 9 am to 5.30 pm (closed on Mondays)

Phone: +39 02 8846 5750

24. Stare at the Dinosaur Fossils at the Natural History Museum

Milan museum of natural. Photo by Stefano Stabile on

The Civico Museo di Storia Naturale (Natural History Museum of Milan) is housed in a 19th-century building at the edge of the Indro Montanelli Park. On the ground floor of this museum will come along a real T-Rex skeleton on display, dinosaur fossils and full-scale models.

Moreover, upstairs you and your young ones will find the museum’s series of life-size dioramas that features Various animals in their habitats from various continents.

Location: Corso Venezia, 55, 20121 Milan, Italy

Open: Tuesday – Sunday from 9 am to 5.30 pm (closed on Mondays)

Phone: +39 02 8846 3337

Tickets; are €5 for adults, while kids enter for free.

25. Fun rides and a park filled with a miniature for the Young Ones

Kids are also considered during their visit to Milan. Leolandia Park is around a 45-minute drive northeast of central. The park features over 49 rides and attractions suited for varying ages, it occupies a vast green space. This is the best place for your kids as they will meet most of their favourite TV and cartoon characters such as Peppa Pig and Geronimo Stilton. Moreover, the children can enjoy a ride on Thomas the Train.

Location: Via Vittorio Veneto, 52, 24042 Capriate San Gervasio, Italy

Open: July – September daily from 10 am to 6 pm

Tickets are around €38.50 per person.

Phone: +39 02 909 0169

26. Dine where the legendary Lucio Battisti used to sing

Premiata Trattoria Arlati was a gathering place for well-established artists and musicians in the 70s. Legendary Italian singer Lucio Battisti used to sing here, as have the pop-rock band Formula 3, Loredana Bertè, and Renato Zero.

This is one of the best places to dine with the rich history of Milan. The walls of Premiata are covered in vintage paintings and photographs. Moreover, you will enjoy live concerts for emerging artists that are held on the lower floor. Apart from the live concerts, you will enjoy seven delights that include cured ham from Parma with buffalo mozzarella and a Milanese style with croutons.

Location: Via Alberto Nota, 47, 20126 Milan, Italy

Open: Monday–Friday from noon to 2.15 pm and 7.30 pm to 11 pm, Saturday from 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm

Phone: +39 02 643 3327

27. Enjoy Dailly Live Performances from Various Genre at Nidaba Theatre

This one of the places you can not miss to visit for lively and melodious live music, Nidaba Theatre. The theatre is a live music venue in Milan that hosts a mix of eclectic bands and performances.

You will get a chance to listen to various genres such as rock, soul, funk, blues, jazz and many more. You will meet well-established local musicians alongside international musicians.

Location: Via Emilio Gola, 12, 20143 Milan, Italy

Phone: +39 33 9347 7512

28. Relax on the Shore of Lake Como

Lake Como. Photo by Zairon on

Lake Como is a welcoming Glacier Lake that has natural and cultural features. The lake is well established as a holiday retreat for locals and Inter tourists since the reign of the Romans. Lake Como is the best place for relaxing due to its slightly higher temperature than the surrounding region, this is due to its microclimate feature.

There are various activities to make your holiday one of a kind at this lake, such as sailing, windsurfing and kitesurfing.

29. Visit One of the Most Exotic Spots in Milan

Villa Invernizzi is a place to visit during your holiday retreat in Milan. You will spot pink flamingos in this exotic spot. You can find this place on your walks around the Giardini di Porta Venezia in the so-called Quadrilatero del Silenzio. The Pink flamingos came from Africa and Chile. The environment of Villa Invernizzi was favourable for them and they started to reproduce and they eventually became a proper flock.

Location: Via Cappuccini, 7, 20122 Milano MI, Italy

30. Torre Branca will Give You a Picturesque View of Milan City

Torre Branca. Photo by Ivan Stesso on

This is one of the tallest structures in Milan. The tower offers a stellar view of the city from its top. The tower dates back to the 1930s and is situated in Milan’s main park, Parco Sempione. You can use the elevator or the stairs to 109 metres to enjoy the panoramic view of the city.

Location: Viale Luigi Camoens, 2, 20121 Milano MI, Italy.

Open: Tuesday–Friday from 3 pm to midnight, Wednesday from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 10.30 am to 2 pm, 2.30 pm to 7.30 pm and from 8.30 pm to midnight (closed on Mondays).

Phone: +39 02 331 4120.

Learn more on Top 10 Romantic Things to do with your Other Half in Milan