Wondering what to visit in Milan? Check out our complete guide to the best things to do in Milan, plus practical tips on accommodation, prices, food, and other useful information for your stay.
Content
- Map
- Best things to do in Milan
- Where to stay
- Prices and food
- What to taste
- When to visit
- Useful information
- More tips about Italy
- Summary
Milan is different from other Italian cities further south. Here, a typically Italian atmosphere blends with a modern, western vibe. That way, unlike in Rome, you can usually count on the bus arriving on time.
Personally, I liked Milan very much. And it’s not just the absolutely breathtaking cathedral that deserves a visit here. You can wander through the charming Brera district, or discover the church nicknamed Milan’s own Sistine Chapel.
And once you’ve explored Milan, you can easily take a trip to some of the most beautiful Alpine lakes, just a short train ride away.
Join us as we explore the best places and top things to do in Milan.
Best things to do in Milan – map
HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you’ll find a detailed map of Milan with my personal tips on the best things to do and see. Click the top left of the map to view separate layers with highlighted locations. You can hide or show layers, or click the icons on the map to display the names of the places described in this Milan guide. To save the map, star it. For a larger version, click the icon in the upper right corner.
Best things to do in Milan
1. Duomo Cathedral and Piazza del Duomo
The Cathedral of the Nativity, or Duomo di Milano, 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 truly amaze you with its interior paintings, 3,500 statues, 135 spires, 5 bronze doors, and its spectacular stained glass windows. One of the most impressive cathedrals we have ever seen.
The Duomo dominates Piazza del Duomo, which is lined with other beautiful historic buildings you’ll discover shortly.
During your visit, don’t miss climbing to the roof. It is probably the most beautiful rooftop walkway you’ll ever experience.
For us, this was the best experience in Milan — and worth every euro!
Read more: Here is our detailed guide to visiting the Duomo di Milano.
Admission and opening hours Duomo
- Admission: Full ticket (church + terraces with lift) €26, reduced €13 (children 6–18). Free for children under 5 and for visitors with disabilities (with or without a companion). To claim a disability discount, present your disability card at the infopoint.
- Opening hours: daily 9:00–19:00 (last entry 18:10)
- How to get there: The easiest way is by metro – yellow line M3, station Duomo. The cathedral is right in the heart of the city.
How to visit the Duomo in Milan
Because the Duomo is a place of worship, visitors must respect the dress code — shoulders and knees covered, and no headgear. It is up to staff to refuse entry if you do not comply.
Where to buy tickets?
- On the spot: at the ticket office in the Royal Palace wing, to the right of the cathedral.
- Online: recommended, to avoid long queues.
Types of tickets
- Entry to the cathedral without terraces
- Entry to the terraces without the cathedral
- Combined ticket – cathedral + terraces
We personally recommend the combined ticket, even if the weather isn’t perfect — the rooftop is unforgettable. Just be careful, it can be slippery in places.
2. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is the oldest still-functioning shopping centre in Italy, located directly to the left of the Duomo.
The luxury of this place is truly impressive — it is home to Milan’s oldest boutiques and restaurants, spread over four floors beneath a magnificent glass dome. Even if you don’t plan to shop, it’s worth coming just to admire the beautiful interior architecture.
The gallery is a public passage and freely accessible at any time.
3. Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale di Milano)
The Royal Palace was the seat of Milanese government for centuries. Today, it serves as a cultural centre with over 1,500 exhibitions and events every year. The grand interior with its sweeping staircase is also worth seeing.
The Royal Palace also houses the Duomo Museum, which is included in the price of a combined ticket for the Duomo di Milano.
- Price: Full admission to the Royal Palace is €15; students aged 15–24 pay €13; disabled visitors pay €10. If you are visiting with children aged 6–14, the adult entrance fee is €10 and children pay €6.
- Opening hours: Open daily except Mondays, from 10:00 to 19:30. On Thursdays extended until 22:30.
- How to get there: The Royal Palace is located to the right of the Duomo.
More inspiration: Itinerary for 2 days in Milan
4. Museo del Novecento
Between the Royal Palace and the Duomo you will find the Museo del Novecento.
This museum features around 400 works of art from the 20th century, mostly by Italian artists, but also by international names such as Warhol or Kosuth.
In addition, the museum offers a fantastic view of the Duomo.
- Price: Admission to the Museo del Novecento is €5, reduced €3 for ages 18–25, seniors over 65, and disabled visitors with a companion. Children under 18 are admitted free of charge.
- Opening hours: identical to those of Palazzo Reale di Milano.
🏡 Where to stay in Milan
Below you will find accommodation suggestions offering great value for money, convenient location, and 24-hour reception with luggage storage:
5. Piazza Mercanti
Piazza Mercanti is a historic square located just a short walk from the Duomo. In medieval times, it was the commercial and administrative heart of Milan.
If you want to soak up the medieval atmosphere and admire the beautifully preserved architecture, you should definitely stop by. It is a bit hidden between the surrounding buildings, which only adds to its charm.
6. The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci
Leonardo da Vinci’s mural The Last Supper from the 15th century is considered one of the greatest artworks in the world. You will find it on the left side of the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
How to visit The Last Supper
- Admission: Full price €15, reduced €2 for youth aged 18–25.
- Booking: Tickets must be reserved well in advance for a specific date and time, as they sell out months ahead. Available dates are usually released 3 to 4 months in advance. If everything is sold out on the official site, you can try to book a guided tour instead.
- Opening hours: Daily from 8:30 to 19:00 (last entry at 18:45). You have 15 minutes to view the painting, with strict visitor limits of 1,000 people per day due to the fragility of the artwork.
Tip: Don’t miss visiting the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie while you’re there — admission to the church itself is free.
7. Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco)
Sforza Castle is one of the most iconic monuments in Milan. Built in the 15th century, it is among the largest citadels in Europe. Today, it hosts several museums with collections ranging from art and furniture to musical instruments. The highlight is Michelangelo’s unfinished sculpture Rondanini Pietà.
You can stroll around the vast castle complex for free, or buy a ticket to enter the museums inside.
Admission and opening hours of Castello Sforzesco
- Admission: The castle courtyard and grounds are free. Entry to the museums costs €5 (reduced €3 for youth 18–25 and seniors 65+). Free entry is offered every first Sunday of the month and on the first and third Tuesday of every month after 2 pm. Tickets can be bought on-site, and lines are usually short.
- Opening hours: The castle grounds are open daily 7:00–19:30. The museums are open Tuesday to Sunday 10:00–17:30 (last ticket sale at 16:30).
More inspiration: Itinerary for 3 days in Milan
8. Park Sempione and Arco della Pace
Right behind Sforza Castle you’ll find Parco Sempione, the largest park in Milan. There are plenty of benches, ponds, toilets and places to grab a snack — an ideal place to relax or unwind after sightseeing.
Within the park you’ll also find the Museum of Design and Art, the Branca Tower with panoramic views of Milan, and even an aquarium.
Opening hours: Daily from 6:30 to 21:00 in summer (shorter hours apply in winter).
On the opposite side of the park, about a 15-minute walk from Sforza Castle, stands the impressive Arco della Pace, a monumental triumphal arch marking one of Milan’s historical gateways.
9. Biblioteca Ambrosiana
If you’re an art lover, don’t miss the Biblioteca Ambrosiana right in the city centre, just a short stroll from the Duomo. Inside, you can admire works by Leonardo da Vinci, Titian, and other masters, all displayed in truly stunning historic interiors.
- Admission: €17 for adults, €10 for students and youth 15–18, €5 for children 6–14, and €13 for seniors. Book here.
- Opening hours: daily except Wednesday from 10:00 to 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 may seem unremarkable, but inside you’ll find breathtaking, beautifully preserved frescoes covering the walls and vaults. Many of them were painted by artists inspired by Leonardo da Vinci.
The church is often nicknamed the “Sistine Chapel of Milan”. Originally, it was part of a Benedictine convent for noblewomen.
- Admission: free
- Opening hours: daily except Monday, 10:00–17:00
11. Monumental Cemetery (Cimitero Monumentale)
A cemetery might sound like an unusual place to visit, but trust us — the Cimitero Monumentale is one of the most fascinating sights in Milan. Covering 250,000 square metres, it’s essentially an open-air museum, showcasing an incredible collection of Italian sculptures, Greek temples, obelisks, and even a replica of Trajan’s Column.
As you enter through the main gate, you’ll walk through the so-called “Hall of Fame”, where many of Italy’s most renowned artists, athletes, journalists and musicians are buried. The entire place is deeply respectful, and visitors move around quietly and calmly.
- Practical tip: At the entrance, you can pick up a free map with highlighted points of interest.
- Opening hours: daily except Monday from 8:00–17:30 (on Sundays until 18:00).
More inspiration: Itinerary for 1 day in Milan
12. Milano Centrale Train Station
Milano Centrale is not only the city’s main railway station but also one of the largest train stations in Europe. Its monumental architecture is impressive both inside and out, with towering arches and beautiful details.
Tip: If you’re departing from here, arrive early — the station is huge, and it can take a while to navigate.
13. Brera District
Milan is full of charming neighbourhoods, but Brera is truly the jewel among them. Close to the Duomo, Brera enchants visitors with its cobbled streets, pastel-coloured houses, and an irresistibly lively yet artistic atmosphere.
You can stroll around aimlessly, discover countless hidden corners, or relax in one of the cosy cafés. Every street here seems more picturesque than the last.
14. La Scala
Teatro alla Scala is one of the most famous opera houses in the world, and a true icon of Milanese culture since its opening in 1778. Over the centuries, it has hosted countless world-renowned opera singers and musicians.
If you have the opportunity, you can admire the beautiful interior either during an evening performance or on a guided tour.
Right opposite the theatre, you’ll find a small park with a statue of Leonardo da Vinci in the centre.
🏡 Budget hotels in Milan
Below you’ll find suggestions for hotels with great value for money, good accessibility and 24-hour reception with luggage storage:
15. Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology
This is Italy’s largest museum dedicated to science and technology. You’ll find fascinating exhibitions on transport, energy, communication, and especially on the inventions of Leonardo da Vinci, to whom the museum is dedicated.
It’s a fantastic place to visit with children thanks to many interactive displays, but adults will love it too — there is truly a lot to explore.
Admission and opening hours
- Admission: €10 full price, €7.50 reduced (children and youth 3–26 years, seniors 65+). It’s best to reserve your tickets online.
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday 9:30–17:00, weekends 9:30–18:30 (closed on Mondays).
16. Art Gallery Pinacoteca di Brera
The famous Pinacoteca di Brera art gallery houses one of Italy’s most important collections of paintings, covering works from the 13th to the 20th century. The building itself is an architectural jewel, with a stunning courtyard and a lovely sculpture garden.
Inside, you can not only admire masterpieces by Raphael, Caravaggio, Mantegna, and other Italian artists, but also get a glimpse of the restoration workshop where the paintings are carefully preserved.
Admission and opening hours
- Admission: €15 full price, €2 reduced for students 18–25 years. Families can also benefit from discounted family tickets.
- Free entry: every first Sunday of the month (booking required in advance).
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30–19:15.
Tip: Pinacoteca di Brera is one of the most popular museums in Milan, so book your tickets online to avoid queues.
🇮🇹 Tickets in Milan
Here are tips for tickets and tours worth booking in advance, all personally verified and with good reviews:
View all →
17. Brera Botanical Garden
Hidden behind the Brera district’s buildings, this small botanical garden is a true oasis of calm in the heart of Milan. Walk among flower beds and centuries-old trees, or just relax on a bench and watch the city go by from a peaceful distance.
Practical information
- Admission: free
- Opening hours: daily except Sundays, 10:00–18:00 (note that off-season hours may be shorter)
- Facilities: free toilets, a small seating area
18. Navigli district
Did you know Milan has its own canals? Designed in part by Leonardo da Vinci, the Navigli system once connected the city to the rivers and lakes of Lombardy. Today, especially Navigli Grande, is one of the city’s most atmospheric and lively neighbourhoods.
Around Navigli Grande, artists exhibit their paintings, and there are plenty of bars, restaurants and vintage shops.
Along the canal, you’ll find countless bars, vintage shops, galleries, and restaurants. In the evenings, the area fills with people enjoying the aperitivo, a pre-dinner drink with small bites.
Try traditional Milanese dishes like risotto alla Milanese or osso buco. Most restaurants start serving dinner after 7 p.m., but if you’re early, join the locals for an aperitivo.
19. Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio
The Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio is one of the oldest churches in Milan, founded in the 4th century by the city’s patron saint, Saint Ambrose. Its red brick façade is a landmark of Romanesque architecture, and the interior boasts beautiful medieval frescoes and mosaics.
- Admission: free
- Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday 7:30–12:30 and 14:30–19:00
- Sunday 8:00–13:00 and 15:00–20:00
20. San Siro Stadium
If you’re a football fan, San Siro Stadium is a must-see in Milan. This iconic arena, home to both AC Milan and Inter Milan, holds up to 80,000 spectators and is one of the largest stadiums in Europe.
Watching a match here is an unforgettable experience, but you can also join a tour during the day. The tour includes the changing rooms, the press area, the tunnel, the pitch, and a museum dedicated to the clubs’ rich history.
21. Church of San Bernardino alle Ossa
San Bernardino alle Ossa may look like a regular church from the outside, but inside it hides one of Milan’s most unusual sights: a side chapel decorated with human skulls and bones. This ossuary was built in the 13th century, and while it might seem creepy, it is a fascinating place to visit.
Admission: free (donations welcome)
Opening hours: generally open during daylight hours
22. Indro Montanelli Gardens
Located between Milano Centrale Station and the historic centre, the Indro Montanelli Gardens are a popular green space for locals. Within the park you’ll find the Natural History Museum, the elegant Dugnani Palace, walking paths, benches, and several cafés.
Opposite the museum stands the Arco di Portaluppi, an impressive modernist gate. From here, you can continue exploring the beautiful architecture of the Porta Venezia district.
Nearby, don’t miss Villa Necchi Campiglio, a stunning 1930s design villa open to visitors.
23. Villa Reale a Corso Buenos Aires
In the Porta Venezia district you will also find Villa Reale, a neoclassical palace housing the Museum of Modern Art, surrounded by a peaceful public garden.
Just a short walk away is Corso Buenos Aires, one of Milan’s most important shopping streets, lined with shops, restaurants, and beautiful historic buildings.
24. Piazza Gae Aulenti
Porta Nuova is Milan’s showcase of modernity, a sharp contrast to the city’s historic heart. Its entrance is marked by Piazza Gae Aulenti, a futuristic square surrounded by skyscrapers, luxury apartments, and corporate offices.
This is the Milan of the future — dynamic, innovative, and sustainable. You can relax on the grassy areas, treat yourself to delicious gelato at Venchi, and admire the striking architecture, including Bosco Verticale, the world-famous vertical forest apartment complex.
25. Colonne di San Lorenzo
If you enjoy ancient Roman history, head to the Colonne di San Lorenzo, located about 10 minutes from the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio.
These Roman columns date back to the end of the 2nd century and once formed part of the main Roman road through Milan, then known as Mediolanum. Today they stand as a unique blend of the city’s Roman and medieval heritage, surrounded by a lively square where locals gather in the evenings.
Where to stay in Milan
Best hotels in Milan
- UNA HOTELS Galles Milano: Cosy 4-star hotel near the metro station, with a rooftop terrace, spa, and swimming pool.
- Hotel Da Vinci: 4-star hotel on the outskirts of Milan, accommodates up to 5 people, rich breakfast, free parking, 30 minutes to the centre by train.
- B&B Hotel Milano San Siro: Modern rooms right next to San Siro Stadium, with covered parking and good metro access to the centre.
🏡 Where to stay in Milan
Below you will find suggestions for hotels with great value for money, good accessibility and 24-hour reception with luggage storage.
Apartments with Kitchenette
- BB Hotels Aparthotel Visconti: Comfortable, clean apartments for up to 6 people, good access to San Siro Stadium and the city centre.
- Residenza Cenisio: Budget-friendly apartments for 2–4 people, a bit older in style but functional, friendly staff, secure yard parking, about 30 minutes to the centre by metro.
🏡 Apartments with kitchenette
Below you will find tips for private accommodation – in apartments with kitchenettes for 2 to 6 people, good access to the centre and luggage storage.
Budget hotels in Milan
- Ibis Milano Centro: Modern, budget-friendly hotel within walking distance of both the centre and the main train station, with restaurant and breakfast available.
- Hotel Meininger: Accommodation for 2 to 6 people, with private or shared rooms, near the train station and metro.
🏡 Budget hotels in Milan
Below you will find suggestions for hotels with great value for money, good accessibility and 24-hour reception with luggage storage.
For even more recommendations, check out our detailed guide to where to stay in Milan — with budget options, transport tips, and a handy map to help you choose.
Prices and Food in Milan
In a cheap restaurant, you’ll pay around €20 for a meal, while a three-course dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant can cost around €80.
Here are a few examples of everyday food prices in Milan:
- 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 a local snack, don’t miss panzerotti at Luini Bakery just outside the Duomo. These fried pastries are similar to langoš, filled sweet or savoury, and cost around €2.50–€3.
The best meals are often found in trattorias or small restaurants where locals eat, away from the main tourist sights and in the side streets.
Chinatown is a great area for dining, just a few minutes from the Arco della Pace. Another place worth exploring is the food market at Milano Centrale, which offers a bit of everything.
Find more tips for good restaurants on our Milan map at the beginning of this article.
Read more: Here is our guide to transport in Milan.
What food to try in Milan
If you want to taste traditional Milanese cuisine, try:
- Risotto alla Milanese: a creamy saffron risotto
- Ossobuco: slow-braised veal shank, usually served with risotto
- Cotoletta alla Milanese: a crispy breaded veal schnitzel
- Mondeghili: fried beef meatballs, originally made from leftovers
Milan’s restaurants typically open for lunch, then close and reopen after 7 pm (except in tourist areas). During the break, you can enjoy an aperitivo — small snacks with a cocktail or another drink.
A traditional cocktail you should try is the Negroni, made from gin, Campari and sweet vermouth. For more inspiration, check out our Lombardy guide.
Milan has plenty of green drinking fountains, so you can easily refill your bottle for free around the city.
When to visit Milan
In general, spring and autumn are the best times to visit Milan, but it is also high season, so some places can be crowded. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect during the year:
- Spring (April to June): Mild temperatures, blooming parks, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor trips. However, expect higher prices and more tourists.
- Summer (July and August): Lively with events and festivals, but hot (over 30 °C). In August, many local businesses close for holidays, but the top sights stay open.
- Autumn (September to November): Pleasant weather, great for exploring. September and October are perfect, but November can be rainy.
- Winter (December to March): Fewer tourists, lower prices, and a beautifully decorated city around Christmas. Opera season starts at La Scala. The weather is cold and sometimes foggy, snow is rare.
If you’re a fashion lover, Milan Fashion Week is held twice a year — in February/March (winter collection) and September/October (summer collection). Just walking through the city during these events is an experience itself.
🇮🇹 Tickets in Milan
Tips for tickets and tours worth booking in advance — verified by us and with great reviews:
View all →
Practical information about Milan
- Currency: euro (€)
- Paying: Cash is perfectly fine for smaller purchases, but most shops, restaurants and hotels accept payment cards. There are plenty of ATMs around Milan, so withdrawing cash is easy.
- Electrical sockets: 230 V, plugs of type C, F and L. Types C and F are common in Europe and should work in most hotels. Type L is older and less frequent. If you have a universal adapter, take it with you — otherwise you can buy one locally for just a few euros.
- Language: In northern Italy, English is widely spoken, and you shouldn’t have any problems communicating in Milan’s tourist areas.
- Safety: Milan is generally safe. As in any large city, be more careful around Milan Centrale Station, San Siro Stadium and Sempione Park at night. Stay in well-lit and busy streets.
This was our practical guide with tips on the best things to do in Milan. If you have any questions or would like to share your own experience from Milan, feel free to leave a comment below. Have a great trip!
More information about Italy
MILAN: MILAN: To help you plan your trip, we’ve prepared a detailed 3-day Milan itinerary including a map. If you have less time, check out our 2-day Milan itinerary or the 1-day Milan itinerary.
Looking for practical tips? Here’s our guide to public transport in Milan, and if you’re searching for accommodation, don’t miss our complete guide to where to stay in Milan (including budget options, airport transfers and a map of convenient hotels). For more details on the cathedral, check out our separate guide to visiting the Duomo di Milano.
LOMBARDY: Milan is not the only place worth visiting in Lombardy. Just a short train ride away is the stunning Lake Como, or you can explore the medieval atmosphere of Bergamo — see our 15 tips for best things to do in Bergamo.
ITALY: Get inspired by our guides to the most beautiful places to visit in Italy and read even more travel tips for your Italy adventure.
Read even more tips on travelling in Italy.
Summary: Best things to do in Milan
Milan is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that perfectly blends modern design with centuries of history. If you want to see a cathedral that will make your jaw drop, shop for unique pieces in local boutiques, or take a trip to the breathtaking Alpine lakes, Milan is the perfect place for you.
You can’t miss the iconic Duomo di Milano, with its incredible rooftop views. Explore the historic centre, stroll through the charming Brera district, visit Sforza Castle and Sempione Park with the Arco della Pace. Don’t forget to admire some of the beautiful churches or experience the thrill of a football match at San Siro Stadium.
Milan doesn’t have as many monuments as Rome, Florence or Naples, so you can see its highlights in 2–3 days. After that, you can either relax and enjoy the local vibe or take a day trip to discover more of Lombardy — we’ll share plenty of inspiration for that, too!
