Wondering what to visit in Milan? Check out our complete guide to the best things to do in Milan, plus practical information on accommodation, prices, food and other useful tips.
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- Things to see in Milan – Map
- Things to do in Milan: Best places to visit
- Where to stay in Milan
- Prices and food in Milan
- What food to try in Milan
- When to visit Milan
- Practical information about Milan
- What to arrange in advance (save time and money)
- More information about Italy
- Summary: What to see and do in Milan
Milan is different from other Italian cities that lie further south. Milan has a typical Italian atmosphere mixed with a modern western feel. Thanks to this, unlike Rome, you can rely on the bus to arrive at the right time.
I liked Milan very much. And it’s not just the absolutely breathtaking cathedral that’ s worth a visit here. You can also explore the charming Brera district or visit the church, which is a kind of hidden “Sistine Chapel” in Milan.
And after you’ve explored Milan, take a trip to some of the most beautiful lakes in the Alps, just a short train ride from Milan.
Check out the most beautiful places and sights to visit in Milan.
Things to see in Milan – Map
HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you will find a detailed map of Milan with tips on things to do and best places to visit in Milan. Click at the top left of the map to see separate layers with highlighted locations. You can hide and show the different layers or click on the icons on the map to see the names of the places I mention in my guide to Milan, Italy. If you want to save the map, star it. For a larger version, click on the icon in the upper right corner.
Things to do in Milan: Best places to visit
1. Duomo Cathedral and Piazza del Duomo
The Cathedral of the Nativity, or Duomo, is the main reason most tourists come to Milan. It is one of the largest cathedrals in the world (it can hold up to 11,000 people) and took over 600 years to build.
It will amaze you (really amaze you) with its paintings, 3,500 statues, 135 towers, 5 bronze doors and stained glass windows. Beautiful building and certainly one of the most beautiful we have ever seen.
The Duomo dominates the Piazza del Duomo, which is surrounded by other beautiful buildings (we’ll show you more in a moment).
During your visit to the cathedral, you can climb to the roof. And it’s probably the most beautiful roof you’ll ever walk on.
This was our best experience in Milan. And worth every euro!
How to visit the Duomo in Milan
The Duomo di Milano is a religious building, where you must enter with respect and follow the basic rules (shoulders and knees covered and headgear removed). It’s up to the staff to let you in if you don’t follow the rules.
Tickets for the Duomo di Milano can be bought on site or in advance online. They are sold in the wing of the Royal Palace on the right side of the cathedral. The number of tickets is limited and the queues can be long in the morning.
Tip:Bought tickets in advance and we’d recommend it to anyone. When you see the crowds, you’ll be glad you already have a ticket. I recommend booking right away for 9:00 am, as it will be the least crowded on the roof and in the cathedral . This will also make you wait in the shortest security line.
- Admission: full admission to the cathedral, including the roof and the archaeological site, costs €15 and €7.50 for children aged 6 to 18. Children under 5 years of age and disabled children with an accompanying person are admitted free of charge.
- Opening hours: the Cathedral is open daily from 9:00 to 19:00 (last entry at 18:10).
- How to get in: The easiest way is by metro – yellow line M3, station Duomo. The cathedral is located right in the centre of Milan.
- Saving Tip: Buy your tickets online and skip the long lines.
- Best time to visit: Come first thing in the morning, when there are fewer people, or in the evening, when the square is beautifully lit.
- For more information on visiting the Duomo, check out our guide to the Duomo di Milano.
2. Galerie Vittorio Emanuele II
The Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery is the oldest still functioning shopping centre in Italy, located to the left of the Duomo.
The luxury and luxury of this place literally oozes. It is the hub for the oldest boutiques and restaurants in the city, spread over 4 floors. Even if you don’t plan to shop, head here to admire the glass dome and interior architecture.
The gallery is passable and freely accessible.
3. Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale di Milano)
The Royal Palace was the seat of Milanese government for centuries. Today it is a cultural centre where you can enjoy a wide range of exhibitions and displays, of which there are more than 1,500 a year. You will also enjoy the magnificent interior with a wide staircase.
The Royal Palace is also home to the Duomo Museum, which is included with a combined ticket to the Duomo di Milano.
- Price: full admission to the Royal Palace in Milan is 15 €, for students 15-24 years old 13 €, for disabled 10 €. If you are visiting Palazzo Reale di Milano with children aged 6-14, the entrance fee is €10 for adults and €6 for children.
- Tickets: Click here to purchase tickets in advance.
- Opening hours: except Mondays, open daily 10:00-19:30. On Thursdays the opening hours are extended until 22:30.
- How to get in: The Royal Palace lies to the right of the Duomo.
More information: Itinerary for Milan in 2 days
4. Museo del Novecento
Between the Royal Palace and the Duomo, you can go to the Museo del Novecento.
The museum includes the 400 works of art from the 20th century , mostly by Italian artists. But you will also find international artists such as Warhol and Kosuth.
The museum also offers a great view of the Duomo.
- Price: admission to the Museo del Novecento is €5 and a reduced admission of €3 for 18-25 year olds, over 65s and disabled people with an escort. Children under 18 years of age are admitted free of charge.
- Opening hours: the same as Palazzo Reale di Milano
Hotels in Milan
Accommodation tips in Milan: from the centre to quiet neighbourhoods
5. Piazza Mercanti
Piazza Mercanti is a historic square near the cathedral that was once the commercial and governmental centre of the city.
If you want to soak up the medieval atmosphere and admire the beautiful buildings, definitely come here. It’s a bit hidden, but that’s the charm of it.
6. The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci
The Last Supper mural by Leonardo da Vinci from 15. century is one of the greatest works of art in the world. It is located to the left of the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
How to visit The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci
Admission: Full admission is 15 € and reduced 2 € for youth 18-25 years. You can buy a ticket
must be booked in advance
for a specific day and time. This is well in advance, because tickets are sold out weeks and months in advance.
Available dates are announced 3-4 months in advance. If tickets are sold out, another option is a guided tour.
Opening hours: You can come and see the painting every day from 8:30 to 19:00 (last entry at 18:45). Inside, you have 15 minutes to see the painting – the painting is no longer in good condition, so they have limited the visitors to 1000 people per day.
While you’re here, don’t miss a visit to the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Admission is free.
7. Sforza Castle (Sforzesco)
Sforza Castle is one of the most beautiful monuments in Milan. Built in the 15th century, it is one of the largest citadels in the world. It hosts various collections including art, antique furniture and musical instruments. The highlight is Michelangelo’s unfinished sculpture of Rondanini’s Pieta.
You can walk around the complex for free or visit the museum for a small fee.
Admission and opening hours of Castello Sforzesco
Admission: The castle grounds are free to explore, but you must purchase a €5 ticket for the museums (reduced rate of €3 for youth 18-25 and over 65). Free admission is the first Sunday of every month and every first and third Tuesday of every month after 2pm. an hour. Tickets can be bought on the spot, there are no long queues.
Opening hours: The resort is open daily from 7:00-19:30. The museums are open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00-17:30 (ticket office closes at 16:30).
More information: Itinerary for Milan in 3 days
8. Park Sempione and Arco della Pace
Behind Sforza Castle is the largest park in Milan – Sempione Park. There are plenty of benches, ponds, toilets and refreshments. An ideal place to relax.
It also houses the Museum of Design and Art, the Branca Tower overlooking Milan, and an aquarium.
Sempione Park is open daily from 6:30-21:00 during the summer season. Opening hours may be shortened during the low season.
On the other side of the park, the imposing Arco della Pace towers majestically. It’s about a quarter of an hour’s walk from Sforza Castle without stopping.
9. Biblioteca Ambrosiana
Do you like art? Don’t miss the Biblioteca Ambrosiana in the city centre, just a short walk from the Duomo. Inside you can admire works by Leonardo da Vinci or Titian, which are housed in magnificent spaces.
Admission: full admission to the Biblioteca Ambrosiana is 17 €, for students and youth 15-18 years 10 €, children 6-14 years 5 € and seniors 13 €. Click here for tickets.
Opening hours: The gallery is open daily except Wednesday from 10:00-18:00.
10. Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore
The Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is a hidden gem in Milan. From the outside it looks inconspicuous, but inside it hides beautiful and well-preserved frescoes that decorate the walls and footprints. Many of these frescoes were painted by artists who followed the teachings of Leonardo da Vinci.
The church is nicknamed “the Sistine Chapel of Milan”. Originally, it served as a Benedictine convent for daughters of noble families who decided to dedicate their lives to God.
- Price: the Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is free of charge.
- Opening hours: the church is open daily except Mondays from 10:00-17:00.
11. Monumental Cemetery (Cimitero Monumentale)
Now you may be wondering, one of the tips is the cemetery in Milan. The Cimitero Monumentale is literally an open-air museum covering 250,000 square meters.
And it might be the place that surprises you the most when you visit Milan. A large collection of Italian statues, Greek temples, obelisks and a small version of Trajan’s Column.
Once through the main entrance, you will enter the “Hall of Fame” where hundreds of Italy’s most famous architects, athletes, actors, journalists, musicians and others are buried.
All visitors are treated with reverence and respect and just walk quietly through the cemetery.
Practical information: a map with marked points of interest can be found at the main entrance. The cemetery is open daily except Mondays from 8:00-17:30 and on Sundays until 18:00.
More information: Itinerary for Milan in 1 day
12. Main Train Station
The Milano Centrale building is the main train station in Milan. At the same time, it is Europe’s largest train station, which impresses from the outside as well as from the inside. If you are travelling from here, arrive early to get your bearings.
13. Brera district
Milan has some really beautiful neighbourhoods. But Brera is the most charming. It’s near the Duomo and you’ll know it by its cobbled streets, pastel-coloured houses with stained-glass shutters and lively atmosphere.
You can just stroll around or sit in one of the cafés. And discover new and new alleys, one more magical than the other.
14. La Scala
La Scala is the world-famous opera house that has been the focal point of Milan since its foundation in 1778.
Many well-known opera artists from all over the world have appeared in the opera . The beautiful interior of La Scala can be explored during an evening performance or during a regular tour.
Opposite the theatre is a small park with a statue of Leonardo da Vinci in the middle.
15. Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology
The National Museum of Science and Technology is the largest science and technology museum in Italy. Here you will find exhibits ranging from transport and energy to the inventions of Leonardo da Vinci, to whom the museum is dedicated.
It’s a great tip for a visit with kids as it includes lots of interactive exhibits. However, adults will also enjoy it, as there is a lot to see.
Admission and opening hours
Admission: full admission is 10 € and reduced admission is 7,50 € for children and youth 3-26 years and seniors over 65 years.
Opening hours: the museum is open daily except Monday at the following times: Tuesday to Friday 9:30-17:00 and at the weekend 9:30-18:30.
Hotels in Milan
Accommodation tips in Milan: from the centre to quiet neighbourhoods
16. Art Gallery Pinacoteca di Brera
The famous art gallery Pinacoteca di Brera includes one of the of the largest collections of works since the 13th to 20th century. The gallery building is a work of art in itself. In addition to the collection, you can walk through the beautiful garden full of sculptures or see for yourself how the paintings are restored.
Admission and opening hours Pinacoteca di Brera
Admission: full admission to the gallery is 15 € and reduced admission 2 € for students 18-25 years. With your family you can get a ticket at a discounted price.
Free entry on the first Sunday of every month – booking is required in advance here.
Opening hours: Pinacoteca di Brera is open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30-19:15.
17. Botanical Garden of Brera
The Brera Botanical Garden is a perfect oasis of greenery in the bustling centre of Milan. Take a walk among the plants, in the arboretum of trees and enjoy a moment of peace on one of the benches.
Practical information: Entrance to the Botanical Gardens is free. There is a small seating area and free toilets. Open daily except Sunday 10:00-18:00 (off-season opening hours may be reduced).
18. Navigli district
A little bit of Venice in Milan? Yes, there are canals in Milan too. There are exactly two – Navigli Grande and Navigli Pavese. Especially the Navigli Grande canal should not be missed. Yes, there are canals in Milan too. There are exactly two – Navigli Grande and Navigli Pavese. Especially the Navigli Grande canal should not be missed.
The Navigli district was once a system of canals designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Today, it is one of Milan’s liveliest neighbourhoods, frequented by locals and tourists alike.
Around Navigli Grande , artists exhibit their paintings, and there are plenty of bars, restaurants and vintage shops.
Try traditional Milanese dishes such as risotto alla Milanese or osso buco. Most of the better restaurants open around 7pm. If you arrive early, go for an aperitivo, a small snack with a drink.
19. Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio
Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio is one of the oldest churches in the city, built in the 4th century. century patron saint of Milan – Saint Ambrose. It impresses from the outside with its red brick exterior. Inside, it hides beautiful frescoes.
- Price: free admission
- Opening hours: the Basilica is open for visitors from Monday to Saturday from 7:30-12:30 and 14:30-19:00 and on Sundays from 8:00-13:00 and 15:00-20:00.
20. San Siro Stadium
If you’re a football fan like Petya, the San Siro stadium should definitely be on your list of things to see in Milan.
Experiencing a football match in Milan is an unforgettable experience. The San Siro Stadium is one of the largest stadiums in Europe, home to both AC Milan and Inter Milan, and holds up to 80,000 people.
You can use the stadium also visit during the day tour – You’ll walk through the famous tunnel, see the changing rooms, pitch and press room and visit the museum to learn more about the local teams.
21. Church of San Bernardino alle Ossa
The Church of San Bernardino alle Ossa isn’t spectacular like other Milanese churches, but it’s still one of the most powerful experiences you’ll get. It is famous for its small side chapel, the walls of which are decorated with human skulls and bones.
The church is a short walk from the Duomo and admission is free (they accept donations).
22. Gardens of Indro Montanelli
Indro Montanelli Gardens and Park are located between Milano Centrale Station and Milan’s historic centre.
They house a natural history museum, the Dugnani Palace and a series of trails with seating. In addition, there are several restaurants where you can go for a meal or a coffee.
Directly opposite the Natural History Museum you will see the distinctive Arco di Portaluppi. If you like beautiful architecture, I recommend you walk through the gate and continue past the beautiful buildings that can be found in the Porta Venezia district.
A little further afield you can visit Villa Necchi Campiglio, a 1930s design villa.
23. Villa Reale a Corso Buenos Aires
Another interesting place in the Porta Venezia district is the Villa Reale, home to the Museum of Modern Art. Behind it is a peaceful garden.
The bustling Corso Buenos Aires winds through the Porta Venezia district , lined with shops, restaurants and historic buildings.
24. Piazza Gae Aulenti
Porta Nuova serves as a contrast to the historic centre of Milan . This modern district is the epitome of modern Milan – skyscrapers, luxury apartments and corporate offices that define Milan as Italy’s city of the future. The entrance to Porta Nuova is via Piazza Gae Aulenti.
You can sit in the grass, have a delicious ice cream at Venchi and see the interesting architecture, including the Bosco Verticale, a sustainable apartment building with lots of greenery.
25. Colonne di San Lorenzo
Do you like ancient Rome? If you fancy it, the Colonne di San Lorenzo is about 10 minutes from St Ambrose Basilica . This is a series of ancient Roman columns that date back to the end of the 2nd century. century. They once lined the main road of Roman Milan (the ancient name of Milan).
Where to stay in Milan
- UNAHOTELS Galles Milano: Great location near Lima metro and shopping street. The rooftop restaurant with a view and the wellness centre are the icing on the cake.
- MEININGER Milano Lambrate: Comfortable hotel near Lambrate station, ideal for young travellers. Modern rooms, bar and common areas.
- Ibis Milan Centro: accommodation in the centre of Milan. Soundproofed rooms, great restaurant and breakfast until noon.
- Hotel da Vinci: A quiet location on the outskirts of Milan with free parking. Spacious rooms and direct train connection to the centre.
Hotels in Milan
Read our Milan accommodation guide for more tips and practical information on where to stay in Milan (budget accommodation, airport and sightseeing connections, map).
Prices and food in Milan
You’ll pay around €20 for a meal in a cheap restaurant and around €80 for a 3-course dinner for two. The prices of basic foodstuffs are as follows:
- Milk 1 l – 1,58 €
- White bread 500 g – 2,61 €
- Eggs 12 pcs – 3,80 €
- Cheese 1 kg – 15,91 €
- Chicken breast 1 kg – 11,29 €
- Bananas 1 kg – 1,90 €
- Potatoes 1 kg – 1,83 €
- Water 1,5 l – 0,51 €
- Bottle of wine – 7 €
For food, try the panzerotti at Luina Bakery just outside the Duomo. The dough is reminiscent of langos and they are filled both sweet and savoury. It costs around 3 €.
The best food can be found in the restaurants where the locals go. Away from the main sights, in the backstreets. Traditional cuisine can be tasted in trattorias.
A renowned area for food is Chinatown. It is just a few minutes’ walk from Arco della Pace. Or go to the market in Milano Centrale, where you can get a little bit of everything.
You can also find some tips for great restaurants in our map at the beginning of this article.
What food to try in Milan?
If you’re coming to Milan, you’ll want to enjoy traditional Milanese cuisine. Here is a shortened list of dishes you can try:
- Risotto alla Milanese: This creamy risotto with saffron is an iconic Milanese dish that is often a favourite with tourists.
- Ossobuco: Try this tender braised veal shank, which is often combined with risotto alla Milanese.
- Cotoletta alla Milanese: crispy veal schnitzel fried until golden brown
- Panettone: A sweet, fluffy pastry filled with raisins and candied citrus peel, mainly associated with the Christmas season, but some patisseries offer it all year round.
- Pizzoccheri: A hearty dish of buckwheat pasta, potatoes, cheese and vegetables from the nearby Valtellina region
- Mondeghili: Milanese meatballs, which are made from leftover meat (mainly beef) and then fried
Most of Milan’s restaurants are open through lunch and reopening until after 19. hour (excluding tourist areas). In the meantime, you can enjoy an aperitivo, which is available in many bars and cafés. These are snacks and small dishes with a cocktail or other drink.
A popular cocktail is the Negroni, which is made with gin, Campari and sweet vermouth.For more inspiration, check out the Lombardy guide.
Green water fountains are all over the city, so you can refill your bottle anywhere.
When to visit Milan?
In general, spring and autumn are the best times to visit Milan, but bear in mind that these are peak seasons, so some places can be crowded. Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect during the year:
- Spring (April to June): ideal weather with parks in bloom, great for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Expect bigger crowds and higher prices, especially around Easter.
- Summer (July and August): lots of events and festivals, but also hot (temperatures over 30 °C). In August, local businesses are closed for the holidays, but the main attractions are open.
- Autumn (September to November): pleasant temperatures, great for exploring the city. November can be rainy, but September and October are ideal thanks to Milan Fashion Week.
- Winter (December to March): the quietest period with fewer tourists and lower prices. Milan is beautifully decorated for Christmas and the opera season begins at La Scala. The weather is cold and foggy, snow is rare.
If you love fashion, plan a trip to Milan Fashion Week – in February/March (winter collection) or September/October (summer collection).
Hotels in Milan
Practical information about Milan
- Currency: euro (€)
- Paying: cash is fine for smaller purchases, but most places accept cards. There are plenty of ATMs in town, so it’s not a problem to choose.
- Electrical socket: 230 V, types C, F and L. Types C and F are common in Europe and can also be found in hotels. Older L sockets are less common. I recommend packing a reducer, but if you don’t have one, you can easily buy one for a few euros.
- Language. In the north you can usually speak English – we had no problem communicating here.
- Safety: Milan is safe, but be more careful around Central Station, San Siro Stadium and Sempione Park at night. Stick to well-lit areas.
What to arrange in advance (save time and money)
Tickets to the Duomo di Milano: Avoid the long queues and book your tickets for the Duomo in advance. From personal experience, I recommend visiting in the morning or before sunset – the view is worth it! Book here.
A tour of Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper: Tickets are selling out fast due to the limited number of visitors. Book your place at least a month in advance to avoid missing out on this iconic experience. Click here to book.
Tickets for airport transfer: Want to avoid stress upon arrival? Buy your bus or train tickets from Malpensa or Bergamo airport to Milan city centre in advance. Just show the ticket on your mobile phone and you’re ready to go. Book your transfer here.
- Accommodation in Milan:
- Hotel Galles: Great location near Lima Metro with a wellness centre and rooftop restaurant – the perfect choice for a comfortable stay. Check out the availability.
- MEININGER Milano Lambrate: A modern hotel by the station and a perfect base for exploring the city. Check availability.
This was a travel guide and tips on the best things to do in Milan. If you have a question or want to share your experience in Milan, write in the comments below. Have a safe journey!
More information about Italy
MILAN: To help you plan your trip to Milan, we’ve created an itinerary for 3 days in Milan, including a map. Do you have less time? Check out the itinerary for Milan in 2 days or the itinerary for 1 day in Milan.
Here is a guide to transport in Milan. For more tips and practical information on where to stay in Milan, read our guide to accommodation in Milan (budget accommodation, airport and sightseeing connections, map). We have compiled practical tips for visiting the Duomo di Milano in a separate guide.
LOMBARDIA: There are other beautiful placesin Lombardy besides Milan. Just outside Milan is the Alpine lake Lago di Como. Or check out our 15 tips on what to see in Bergamo.
ITALY: Get inspired by the most beautiful places in Italy.
Read even more tips on travelling in Italy.
Summary: What to see and do in Milan
Milan is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city, known for its contrast of modernity and history.
If you want to see a cathedral that will make your chin drop, shop for original pieces in local boutiques or take a trip to the most beautiful lakes in the Alps, Milan is the perfect holiday destination for you.
The Duomo is a place you can’t miss when visiting Milan. A beautiful cathedral that has a rooftop with a fantastic view of the city. Explore the historic centre, the Brera district and head to Sforza Castle and Sempione Park with the Peace Arch. Or admire the beautiful churches and enjoy a match at the San Siro Stadium. For more tips on what not to miss in Milan, check out this article.
Milan is not a city full of sights like Rome, Florence or Naples. It’s easy to walk around in 2-3 days and then spend the next days either soaking up the local atmosphere or taking a trip around Milan (we’ll give you some tips too, because it’s worth it). Check out our tips on what to see in Milan.
