Things to Do in Milan – The Ultimate Travel Guide
Get ready to discover amazing things to do in Milan. Could you imagine a city where sophisticated history struts hand-in-hand with cutting-edge style? Experience this unique blended atmosphere in Italy’s fashion capital.
Visualize the combination of the bustling designer scene, breathtaking Gothic cathedrals as a backdrop, and a refined food culture that has you saying “Bellissimo!” with every bite.
While top-of-the-line apparel may appear to steal the limelight here, Milan offers much more than designer boutiques. The region has a rich history and those with a keen eye may even notice remnants of the city’s Roman foundations and Renaissance-era grandeur.
Let your trusted tour provider, Exoticca guide you on your adventure as you discover the most incredible things to do in Italy. Let’s uncover more about the place where timeless elegance and aristocratic tradition meet the daring spirit of haute couture.
Milan’s must-see sights
Every Milan tour needs a starting point. Begin your site-seeing venture at one of these favoured spots.
Duomo di Milano
Viewing the breathtaking Duomo di Milano is topping the list of things to do in Milan. It’s the city’s most iconic symbol and one of the largest cathedrals in the world.
Every part of this historical structure, from the Madonnina statue perched atop the highest spire to the carefully crafted interior, invites visitors to explore the connections between art, faith, and human ambition.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Imagine indulging in some retail therapy at one of the oldest shopping galleries in the area. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is also known as Milan’s “living room,” where the city’s soul is said to linger.
Sip on an espresso, visit historic boutiques, or even partake in a local ritual for luck by spinning on a mosaic bull.
Sforza Castle
Are you a fan of Renaissance architecture? Sforza Castle is the place to visit. It was once home to historical figures, but now houses museums, ancient courtyards, and hidden gardens.
The Last Supper (Cenacolo Vinciano)
A trip to Milan may feel incomplete without viewing the famous mural of The Last Supper. It’s tucked away in a quiet Milanese convent.
The masterpiece allows you to witness a moment frozen in time by the great artist Leonardo Da Vinci. Be sure to book ahead, as only a few visitors are allowed at a time.
Brera District
Wander through the cobblestone streets of this enchanting neighbourhood. Discover fashion, art, poetry, and an array of romantic cafes here. It’s also home to the well-known Pinacoteca di Brera.
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Hidden gems & stylish corners
Milan’s glamour extends well beyond its famous landmarks. Get ready to venture slightly off the beaten track by visiting a few stylish corners that don’t always make it onto a tourist’s typical Milan itinerary.
How often do you get to navigate a vibrant web of historic canals? Milan’s Navigli district pulses with life. Enjoy the spectacular views by day. Browse the antique shops, independent boutiques, and hidden galleries.
Venture to the nearby Darsena harbour. Once, a forgotten corner of the city, now a lively social hub where locals gather for sunlit beverages, picnics, and peaceful strolls.
As the sun sets, witness how the region transforms into the aperitivo capital. It’s anchored by the Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese waterways. Here, cocktails and small plates become a beloved ritual for locals and travellers alike.
Do you have an adventurous palate? Give your tastebuds something to remember by trying inventive drinks like the honey-infused “Melaba,” served in a whimsical setting.
Individuals looking for a more high-end experience, won’t be disappointed, as several venues in the district cater to more refined tastes. Enjoy an assortment of Tuscan meats and cheeses, while lingering by the water’s edge.
Porta Nuova: Futuristic skyline meets vertical forests
Are you curious about the future? Visiting Porta Nuova feels like a jump through a time warp. It’s located north of the historic center.
This sleek, dynamic district is home to the Bosco Verticale. The two iconic residential towers are vertical forests, teeming with over 15,000 plants and 800 trees cascading down their facades. Think of modern urban living with a sustainable natural twist.
Nearby, Italy’s tallest skyscraper, the UniCredit Tower, gleams in the sunlight. It’s an artwork of glass, steel, and imagination.
The area also has several open-air exhibitions and buzzing aperitivo spots frequented by Milan’s fashion and design elite.
Cimitero Monumentale: Where Art Meets Eternity
Get ready to shift your perspective on art by taking a short tram ride to the Cimitero Monumentale. It’s a grand cemetery showcasing opulent mausoleums and sculptural masterpieces.
The cemetery features intricate tombs designed by some of Italy’s most revered 19th and 20th-century artists. Many people refer to it as an open-air museum. At its heart stands the Famedio (Temple of Fame), a striking neo-gothic structure.
Villa Necchi Campiglio: A 1930s time capsule
Are you still wondering what to see in Milan? Have you ever wanted to glimpse into the aristocratic interwar elegance of Milan? The opportunity awaits you at Villa Necchi Campiglio.
It’s a structure from the rationalist era, Designed by renowned architect Piero Portaluppi. It features parquet floors, stained-glass accents, and a private swimming pool, a rare luxury during the era.
The walnut-panelled study has been carefully preserved over time. Features like Art Deco furnishings, and light-flooded rooms bring about an ambiance of the wealth, taste, and modernity of 1930s Milanese high society.
Wander through its lush gardens and enjoy momentarily stepping into a bygone era of refinement.
Milan’s culinary highlights
As is the culture in most of Italy, settling down for a meal in Milan is not just about satisfying hunger. It’s a ritual, a celebration, and every bite is meant to be savoured. Indulgent choices range from the creamy Risotto alla Milanese to innovative cocktails that tantalize the senses.
The city knows how to satisfy every craving, whether you prefer golden risottos or rooftop aperitivos, the city’s food scene tells a story of craftsmanship, luxury, and community at every table.
Classic Milanese dishes
One dish synonymous with Milan’s culinary heritage is Risotto alla Milanese. It’s as rich in history as it is in flavour. The dish is infused with precious saffron and combines Arborio rice with bone broth, butter, onions, and a generous sprinkling of Grana Padano cheese.
When serving Risotto alla Milanese, hosts often accompany it with delectable ossobuco, a slow-braised veal shank featuring a marrow-rich center.
You’ve heard of Austrian schnitzel, but have you tried its Milanese cousin cotoletta alla Milanese? Milan’s cotoletta traditionally uses a bone-in veal loin, fried gently in butter to preserve its tenderness and flavour.
The dish dates back to around the 12th century and remains a symbol of the city’s love for simple, yet luxurious ingredients prepared skillfully. You can almost taste the city’s storied past with these traditional meals.
Aperitivo spots
Evenings in Milan feel incomplete without the ritual of aperitivo. It’s the magical hour between work and dinner. Drinks and small bites bring people together to enjoy lavish spreads of Cicchetti, cheeses, charcuterie, and other creative snacks.
Opt for a skyline aperitivo experience with a venue that offers panoramic views from its rooftop perch. Enjoy listening to spritz glasses clink, while nibbling on the abundant boards of cured meats, marinated olives, and fresh focaccia.
Some people prefer a quieter experience of tucked-away gems. The charming courtyards of Brera have some hidden aperitivo spots serving up risotto croquettes, stuffed, fried olives, and glasses of crisp prosecco. The mood here is less busy and with intimate, ivy-draped settings.
Historic cafés and modern bakeries
What does a perfect Milanese morning look like? Start the day with a visit to one of the city’s historic cafés for a breakfast treat. Tradition is prevalent in the delicious Milanese pastry artistry accompanied by rich espresso.
Nibble on the iconic panettone, a dome-shaped, buttery fruit cake studded with raisins and candied citrus for an authentic breakfast treat with noble 15th-century origins.
Unlike the history-laden baked goods, Milan’s coffee culture embraces the modern wave where patrons can slow down and appreciate the craftsmanship behind every cup.
There is an endless dance between old-world charm and modern innovation. The fusion defines Milan’s approach to the café experience.
Local markets and street food
Do you want to eat like a local? Wander through Mercato Centrale Milano near Garibaldi Station. The vibrant food market brings together local producers and artisan vendors under one roof, it’s one of the best places to visit in Milan.
The offerings include a varied selection that ranges from saffron risotto kits and aged Gorgonzola to Milanese meatballs.
Hungry visitors also find themselves attracted to the tantalizing scents near the Darsena. Along the waterfront, vendors serve hot, freshly made piadina, stuffed flatbreads. These are typically filled with cured meats, cheeses, and seasonal vegetables.
Easy day trips from Milan
Do you want to branch out and explore other regions during your stay? While there is no shortage of things to do in Milan, its location makes it the ideal base for quick day trips.
Venture into Lombardy’s diverse landscapes and feast your eyes on some of the most fascinating sites. Explore the Eternal Cities: Milan, Lake Como & More.
Lake Como
Explore the elegant Lake Como. Places of interest include historic villas like Villa d’Este and Villa del Balbianello. Hire a private boat. Tour the grand estates and take in the natural beauty of the region.
There are also ferry rides available, which take you to towns like Bellagio and Varenna. Once there, browse the lakeside cafés that boast spectacular Alpine views.
Bergamo – Walled medieval town with a rich culinary scene
Bergamo’s Città Alta is encircled by UNESCO-listed Venetian walls. It features cobblestone streets and an assortment of culinary delights.
The city’s trattorias still serve traditional dishes. Indulge in a snack that echoes the region’s medieval past.
Pavia or Vigevano – Underrated gems near Milan
Are you looking for something a little less touristy? Explore some of the hidden gems in Milan.
Pavia proudly showcases Renaissance grandeur with the Certosa di Pavia monastery.
Vigevano, on the other hand, charms visitors with its Piazza Ducale. The little town has a rich shoemaking tradition, reminiscent of the shoemakers mentioned in childhood fairytales.
These towns provide peaceful, history-filled alternatives to the city buzz of Milan. It’s worth taking some time to explore Milan’s lesser-known districts.
Practical travel tips
Do you need some helpful insights to ensure that your experience goes smoothly? Here is some advice you may not find in a Milan travel guide.
Best time to visit
Italy’s fashion capital is captivating throughout the year.
Individuals who prefer to explore without the big crowds should visit in spring or fall. These seasons typically boast mild weather of 10–24°C.
During the summer, the big crowds gather in Milan. Depending on the atmosphere you’re looking for, this season might work for you too.
Getting around Milan
Milan’s public transportation system is efficient and user-friendly. There are metro and tram lines that crisscross the city. Consider a 24-hour metro pass that allows you to zip between attractions.
Booking The Last Supper
Visiting Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper is on the itinerary of most visitors. It requires visitors to book tickets 2–3 months in advance. Only small groups are allowed in 15-minute slots.
Make your reservation through Milan’s official museum site or authorized vendors. Late arrivals aren’t admitted, so be sure to get there 15 minutes early.
Safety & etiquette
Use cross-body bags to keep valuables secure and to avoid any potential pickpocketing on your trip. Milanese style leans toward smart-casual clothing in neutral tones. When visiting churches like the Duomo, it’s respectful to cover the shoulders and knees.
When it comes to your Milanese dining experience, tipping isn’t a requirement, but leaving a 10% gratuity for excellent service is appreciated.
Discover Milan with exoticca
Milan offers endless layers of discovery. It includes artistic masterpieces and ancient churches to sleek modern skyscrapers and timeless fashion boutiques.
Come savour an aperitivo along the canals or reflect on the Last Supper in its original setting.
Be a part of the social pulse, in the heart of Italy when you explore Milan with Exoticca.
Embark on one of our expertly curated Italy tours with an itinerary that balances culture, relaxation, and adventure.
