10 Best Things To Do In Milan, Italy: Exploring The Art & Fashion Capital

Are you wondering what are the best things to do in Milan, Italy? Look no further, I will share with you the best activities and places to visit in Milan. It is the gateway city of the Northern part of Italy. I love the vibes and the various attractions that you can enjoy in this historical and chic metropolis.

With 1.3 million residents in the Milan metropolitan area and 3.2 million in the larger area surrounding the city center, Milan is a truly enormous city and is one of the best places to visit in Italy. Archaeological discoveries from as far back as 222 BC show that there have been human settlements in the Milan area for thousands of years. Milan did in fact once act as the seat of the Western Roman Empire.

Due to its strategic location on the mainland of Italy, Milan enjoyed great prosperity throughout antiquity, the middle ages, and later. Despite being damaged during World War II, the city has since recovered and experienced a tremendous economic boom, which accounts for its rapid growth and expansion.

Today, Milan offers a beautiful blend of ancient buildings, contemporary skyscrapers, and a dash of Italian culture. The city is particularly well-known for the stunning Duomo Cathedral and its profusion of upscale clothing stores.

Here are the best things to do in Milan, Italy:

1. Milan Cathedral

📍Address: Piazza del Duomo, 20122 Milano MI, Italy
🎫 Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Milan Cathedral and Rooftop Ticket
🌟 Ratings: 4.6 / 5

The Milan Cathedral is among the best places to visit in Milan, which has many churches. It is a truly monumental structure that took more than 600 years to complete and is renowned for its exquisite architecture.

The cathedral, which is situated in Milan’s self-named Piazza del Duomo, was started in 1386 but wasn’t finished until 1965. The cathedral’s front façade, which has an Italian Gothic design, is truly magnificent and is adorned with numerous towers, statues, and decorations.

A fantastic collection of artwork and some exquisitely detailed statues can be found between the central columns of the interior, which is equally ornamental and features some lovely stained glass windows bursting with color.

The center of Milan is this enormous building, and visiting this city would not be complete without setting foot inside its enormous doors. The Piazza del Duomo is another place you can go.

The Piazza del Duomo, which serves as Milan’s main square, is a sizable open area with some outstanding artwork and architecture. If you are visiting Milan, this should be your first stop because you can see the gorgeous Duomo and nearby structures from here.

The impressive Royal palace is located on one side of the square, and in the middle is a magnificent statue of Vittorio Emmanuel, the first King of a united Italy. There are also a ton of upscale stores, eateries, and bars to visit. While sipping coffee and admiring the throngs of tourists and locals going about their daily lives, you can shop to your heart’s content.

2. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

📍Address: Piazza del Duomo, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
🎫 Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Milan City Centre Walking Tour with Skip-the-Line Access to see the Last Supper of Leonardo da Vinci.
🌟 Ratings: 4.5 / 5

When you enter the Grand Gallery, you might mistakenly believe that you are in the lobby of an opera house or a palace, not a shopping center. However, the Galleria is essentially a very extravagant and lavish indoor shopping area. It is one of the world’s oldest shopping centers and was created in 1877 by Guiseppe Mengoni.

While the walls and storefronts are embellished with elaborate panelling and stucco artwork, the cross-shaped mall is surrounded by four glass panelled arms that let in the perfect amount of sunlight. The mall is lined with high-end designer stores, including Prada, Versace, and Louis Vuitton. If you’re looking for a deal, this is most definitely not the place!

3. Monumental Cemetery

📍Address: Piazzale Cimitero Monumentale, 20154 Milano MI, Italy
🎫 Find Tickets – Book in Advance: The Monumental Cemetery of Milan Guided Tour
🌟 Ratings: 4.9 / 5

If you’re looking for a unique location in Milan to visit, the Milan Monumental Cemetery, or Cimitero Monumentale in English, is a must-see after that. It is much larger than a cemetery and features numerous artistic tombs.

The graves of the nation’s most prominent citizens are located at the main entrance. The most well-known tombs include a tomb in the shape of a marble four-poster bed, a pyramid, and a white tower. Rich families in Milan have fought hard to distinguish themselves, as evidenced by the numerous statues or sculptures of angels.

Don’t forget to grab the cemetery map at the entrance. This unusual visit is something you don’t want to miss! Keep in mind that they are closed on Mondays.

4. See Leonardo Da Vinci’s Works and Landmarks

📍Address: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, 11, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
🎫 Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Leonardo3 – The World of Leonardo Museum Entry Ticket
🌟 Ratings: 4.3 / 5

The work of Leonardo da Vinci had a profound influence on the field of Western art throughout the world. Even though the vast majority of his masterpieces are located in cities in Italy, such as Florence and Milan, other pieces of his work can be discovered in unexpected places all over the world. One of the places you can visit is the Musée le Monde de Léonardo.

One of the most significant happenings that take place throughout the course of the year is Leonardo3 – The World of Leonardo da Vinci exhibit. It would be a mistake to skip this exhibit. The artist and inventor Leonardo da Vinci has been rediscovered, along with fully functional models of his inventions and digitally restored versions of his paintings. This is a first of its kind on a global scale.

Some of the most recent and cutting-edge additions to the exhibition include a submarine, a time machine, a mechanical dragonfly, a rapid-fire crossbow, a mechanical eagle, a digital restoration of the painting “The Last Supper,” and a reconstruction of musical instruments.

with multimedia display stations that allow for interaction via the use of one’s hands. In addition to the works of art, there is also a presentation of the codices written by Leonardo that are presented in a digital format.

Over 200 user-friendly, interactive reconstructions in 3D, suitable for people of all ages. This one-of-a-kind event is suitable for the whole family, as well as students, tourists, and anyone else who is curious about the discovery of Leonardo da Vinci, as it has never been seen before.

5. Teatro alla Scala

📍Address: Via Filodrammatici, 2, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
🎫 Find Tickets – Book in Advance: La Scala Museum and Theater Tour
🌟 Ratings: 4 / 5

You can get to Piazza della Scala by walking along Galleria Vittorio Emanuele from Piazza del Duomo. It is where La Scala, the renowned Milan Opera house, is located, as the name implies.

It is one of the three most prestigious opera houses in Italy, along with the San Carlo Theater in Naples and the Fenice in Venice. The facade might not be as spectacular as Milan’s other famous sights. But once you step inside, you’ll be astounded by what you see.

Italian opera masterworks like “Norma” by Vincenzo Bellini and “Otello” by Giuseppe Verdi were produced here. Maria Callas, one of the all-time greatest classical singers, has also given performances at La Scala.

Theatre boxes are set up over four levels and overlook the stage. They are all richly gilded and outfitted with maroon drapes. Be aware that not all seats have excellent views, and the majority of the back seats are in the back. The best views are available from the Platea and Palchi seats, but they start at about €150.

Before performances, you can tour the museum and theater, and then make reservations for an evening performance at the nearby Biglietteria Filodrammatici (Amateur Dramatics Theater).

It’s in Milan, Italy, at 2 Via Filodrammatici. The majority of performances begin at 8:00 PM. The museum is additionally open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 AM.

6. Cruise on Naviglio Canals

📍Address: Alzaia Naviglio Grande, 160, 20144 Milano MI, Italy
🎫 Find Tickets – Book in Advance:  Navigli District Canal Boat Tour with free Aperitivo
🌟 Ratings: 3.7 / 5

Not many people realise that Milan actually has two canals – Naviglio Pavese and Naviglio Grande – This canal stretches from the Porta Ticinese to the Ticino river some 50km to the west. 

Constructed originally in 1177, the canal was worked on for many years and continued to expand into what it is today. The section of the canal situated within the city centre is a fantastic place to walk. 

There are also different sections of it featuring open-air art markets. Sharing a late afternoon stroll down the canal can be special, with the twinkling shop lights along the canal and the sunset colours over the water making it magical. You can also book a cruise to make it even more special.

If you fancy getting a free cruise along the Naviglio Grande Canal, every spring and summer season the Milan City Pass includes it in their freebies. You can buy the Milan City Pass here.

7. Go Shopping for Designer Items

For those who appreciate fashion, Milan is the place to be! The fashion industry in Italy is based there, and Milan Fashion Week is held there twice a year. Why not join a tour around the city’s thriving fashion district to see where some of the chicest clothing in the world is created?

Outlet shoppings in Serravalle Outlet 

📍Address: Via della Moda, 1, 15069 Serravalle Scrivia AL, Italy
🎫 Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Serravalle Outlet Return Shuttle Transfer
🌟 Ratings: 4.5 / 5

Serravalle Designer Outlet is the first and biggest designer outlet in Italy and Europe, and here you can find a special selection of your favorite fashion designer brands at up to 70% off. These include iconic fashion brands like Armani, Burberry, Fendi, Gucci, Prada, and Tod’s, as well as sportswear brands like Adidas, Nike, and Converse, as well as high-street favorites like Coccinelle, Furla, Michael Kors, and Moncler.

More than just a place to make a few purchases, Serravalle Outlet offers a chance to enjoy a distinctive shopping experience in upscale boutiques. These shops are situated in the architectural charm of a historic Ligurian town center from the 18th century, surrounded by the greenery of the surrounding hills, and facing small squares connected by winding streets.

Piazza Mercanti 

📍Address: Piazza dei Mercanti, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
🎫 Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Guided Walking Tour includes a visit to Piazza Mercanti
🌟 Ratings: 4.6 / 5

The Piazza dei Mercanti, which was once the heart of Milan during the Middle Ages, was a hive of commerce and trade markets.

The main Milan attractions are all within walking distance of this square, which is situated between the Piazza dei Duomo and the Piazza Corduiso.

The Pallaza della Ragione, the Pallaza delle Scuole Palatine, and the Loggia degli Osii are just a few of the significant structures that are situated in the square. Additionally, a number of significant statues and monuments, some of which have Roman origins, can be found here.

Food Market 

The city’s markets are the place to go if you want to do things the old-fashioned way and savor some regional specialties while getting a feel for the local way of life. Via Fauché Market is one of my personal favorites.

The Via Fauché Market will undoubtedly be a lot of fun if you enjoy sightseeing, shopping, and having culinary adventures while on vacation. This bustling shopping area is located on Via Giovanni Battista Fauchè and is open on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month.

It is a great location for finding fresh produce, fruits, and other grocery needs. In addition to all of this, there are sellers of clothing, accessories, home decor, and footwear on-site. Best of all, everything is more affordable than at the mall.

Another option is the Mercato Centrale, which also offers a great Pasta and Risotto cooking class and Market Food Tour.

Eataly Milan

📍Address: Piazza Venticinque Aprile, 10, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
🎫 Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Private Walking Tour with Food Tasting at Eataly Milan
🌟 Ratings: 4.5 / 5

In Milan, the 54,000+ square foot Eataly flagship store debuted in late March 2014. The theater that was once a theater now serves as the four-story food court.

There is a pizzeria inside, along with 13 other eating and drinking establishments, and a large selection of Italian ingredients for you to prepare your favorite dishes at home.

One of Italy’s most significant agricultural regions, Lombardy, which surrounds Milan, is the focus of Eataly Milan, a restaurant.

8. Visit Various Museums

Milan is home to museums that appeal to a wide range of interests, from science and technology to art and design. Here are a few to think about:

Museo Nazionale Scienza e Tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci 

📍Address: Via San Vittore, 21, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
🎫 Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Science and Technology Leonardo da Vinci Museum Entry Ticket
🌟 Ratings: 4.5 / 5

More than just an artist, true visionary, inventor, and scholar, Leonardo da Vinci was a legendary figure of true genius. It makes sense that a museum dedicated to him would house many of his creations as well as a sizable collection of other significant scientific and technological exhibits.

You can anticipate finding collections like a plethora of model cars made from da Vinci drawings, reconstructions of his flying machines, and a plethora of his drawings, blueprints, and sketches at one of the most significant museums in the world.

Milan Natural History Museum 

📍Address:  Corso Venezia, 55, 20121 Milano MI, Italy

Undoubtedly one of the most significant museums of natural history in Italy is the Museo Civico di Storia Naturale in Milan. A hundred dioramas depict animal and plant life in various natural landscapes. Natural history of mankind, paleontology, zoology of vertebrates, and zoology of invertebrates are among the subjects covered by the Natural History Museum in Milan.

Milan Modern Art Gallery 

📍Address:  Via Palestro, 16, 20121 Milano MI, Italy

The Galleria d’Arte Moderna (Modern Art Gallery) of Milan is housed in a stunning villa from the eighteenth century and features artwork from the eighteenth to the twentieth centuries. The stunning Villa Reale, which still has some of its original furnishings, is decorated with the artwork.

9. Sempione Park

📍Address: Piazza Sempione, 20154 Milano MI, Italy
🎫 Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Branca Tower Entrance Ticket at Sempione Park
🌟 Ratings: 4.1 / 5

The Paro Sempione is a sizable public area and gardens located behind the Sforzesco Castle and is one of Milan’s most prestigious parks. The 95-acre park, which was first built in 1888, has an amazing arch of peace.

In addition to numerous footpaths, bike trails, and wooded areas, this wonderful location is also beautifully landscaped and has numerous sculptures and elaborate fountains. A museum and the enormous watchtower Torre Branca, which provides sweeping views of the city, are also located in the park.

The following structures are worth seeing while strolling around:

• Milan’s Civic Aquarium and its attractive architecture. 
• The Triennale, showcasing Italian art and architecture
• A multipurpose stadium built in 1807 where sporting events are held is called the Arena Civica.
• Milan’s triumphal arch, the Arco della Pace, was constructed to honor peace. The architecture was gorgeous!

10. Visit Various Churches

One of the biggest dioceses in the world, Milan is the only one in the western Church to still use the Ambrosian liturgical rite. Here are a few of the churches in Milan that you can see and visit.

Santa Maria delle Grazie

📍Address: Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
🎫 Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Da Vinci’s Last Supper Guided Tour at Santa Maria delle Grazie
🌟 Ratings: 4.5 / 5

The exterior of this church, built in 1497, features a Gothic design made of red bricks and a sizable rear basilica, even though it is not one of the most well-known. The Corso Magenta, on the other side of Milan from the Duomo, is where you can find this church. One of the world’s greatest works of art is housed inside the structure.

Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio

📍Address: Piazza Sant’Ambrogio, 15, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
🎫 Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Guided Tour of the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio
🌟 Ratings: 4.5 / 5

St. Ambrose constructed this historic structure in 379 AD, making it one of Milan’s oldest structures. Since its construction, this church’s simple Romanesque design has remained largely unchanged, and because it served as a hub for the community, Milan grew up around it. The front façade is framed by two substantial towers, and a collection of elaborate arches surrounds the courtyard.

Basilica San Lorenzo Maggiore 

📍Address: Corso di Porta Ticinese, 35, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
🎫 Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Private Navigli Neighborhood Walking Tour
🌟 Ratings: 5 / 5

The Basilica was built in 402 and is one of Milan’s oldest churches. It has existed in some form ever since. A Maximian the Emperor statue stands in the courtyard and is framed by a number of colonnades.

Although the interior is quite gloomy and speaks of extreme age, there is a fantastic high altar, as well as the chapel of Saint Aquilino, which has stunning mosaics and ceiling art.

Basilica of Sant’Eustorgio 

📍Address: Piazza Sant’Eustorgio, 1, 20122 Milano MI, Italy
🎫 Find Tickets – Book in Advance: Navigli Walking Tour and Basilica of Sant’Eustorgio
🌟 Ratings: 5 / 5

The beautiful campanile on the Romanesque basilica of Sant’Eustorgio was added a century after the basilica’s construction in the 12th and 13th centuries. In 1863, the facade was finally added. One of the earliest examples of Renaissance architecture, the Cappella Portinari, built by Michelozzo between 1462 and 1468, can be found beyond the choir. Vincenzo Foppa painted the frescoes.

Basilica of San Nazaro

📍Address: Piazza S. Nazaro in Brolo, 5, 20122 Milano MI, Italy

In the same-named square is where you’ll find the Basilica of San Nazaro. The complex consists of the Renaissance Trivulzio Chapel, the Chapel of St. Catherine, and the Basilica Apostolorum, which was constructed in the fourth century by St. Ambrose of Milan. The basilica is a part of the collection of churches that Sant Ambrogio constructed to approve the christening of Milan. It was very significant because it was going to be on the road that went to Rome.

I hope that inspired you to visit Milan, Italy. This bustling Italian city is definitely worth a visit, whether just for a city break or a jump-off point to other Northern Italy destinations.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Everything Zany

Travel Blog

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