Milan, the fashion capital of the world and a global hub for art, culture, and history, is one of Italy’s most enchanting cities. With a rich blend of historical landmarks, contemporary architecture, and artistic treasures, Milan offers a unique experience that caters to a diverse range of interests. From iconic churches to world-class museums, let’s explore the top 10 tourist attractions in Milan that every visitor should not miss.
1. Duomo di Milano
The Duomo di Milano, also known as Milan Cathedral, is a Gothic-style cathedral in Milan, Italy. It is the largest church in Italy and the fifth largest in the world. The construction of the Duomo began in 1386 and took over 500 years to complete.
The Duomo is made of white marble and has a distinctive spire that reaches over 150 meters (492 feet) tall. The exterior of the Duomo is decorated with over 3,400 statues and gargoyles. The interior of the Duomo is equally impressive, with a nave that is over 100 meters (328 feet) long and a ceiling that is covered with intricate frescoes.
The Duomo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Milan. It is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
Here are some of the things you can do at the Duomo:
- Visit the interior of the cathedral and admire the architecture and artwork.
- Take a walk around the exterior of the cathedral and see the statues and gargoyles.
- Climb to the top of the spire for stunning views of Milan.
- Visit the crypt, which houses the remains of saints and martyrs.
- Learn about the history of the Duomo at the museum.
The Duomo is open to the public from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, seven days a week. Admission is free, but there is a charge for climbing to the top of the spire and visiting the museum.
2. Castello Sforzesco
Castello Sforzesco is a castle located in Milan, Italy. It was built in the 14th century by the Visconti family and later expanded by the Sforza family. The castle is a large complex of buildings that includes a fortress, a palace, and several museums.
The fortress is the oldest part of the castle and is characterized by its high walls and towers. The palace was built in the 15th century and is decorated with frescoes and tapestries. The museums in the castle house a collection of art, artifacts, and archaeological finds.
Some of the most famous works of art in the castle include the Rondanini Pietà by Michelangelo, the Sala delle Asse painted by Leonardo da Vinci, and the Collections of Ancient Art.
Castello Sforzesco is a popular tourist destination and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Milan.
Here are some additional details about Castello Sforzesco:
- It is located in the Piazza Castello in the center of Milan.
- It is open to the public and admission is charged.
- The opening hours vary depending on the season.
- There are guided tours available in several languages.
3. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a shopping arcade located in the heart of Milan, Italy. It is named after Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of Italy. The Galleria was built between 1865 and 1877 and is considered one of the most beautiful shopping arcades in the world.
The Galleria is a glass-and-steel structure with a glass-domed roof. It is divided into two levels, with shops and restaurants on both levels. The ground floor is home to some of the most luxurious brands in the world, such as Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton. The upper level is home to more affordable shops and restaurants.
In the center of the Galleria is a large octagonal rotunda with a glass floor. The floor of the rotunda is made of mosaics that depict the four seasons. In the center of the rotunda is a statue of a bull. There is a superstition that if you spin around on your heel three times while touching the bull’s nose, you will have good luck.
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a popular tourist destination and is a must-see for anyone visiting Milan. It is a beautiful and elegant building that is a great place to shop, eat, or simply take a stroll.
Here are some additional details about the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II:
- It is 196 meters long and 105 meters wide.
- The glass-domed roof is 23 meters high.
- The Galleria is home to over 100 shops and restaurants.
- It is open from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM, 7 days a week.
- Admission is free.
4. Brera Art Gallery
The Brera Art Gallery (Pinacoteca di Brera) is one of the largest and most important art galleries in Italy. It is located in the Brera district of Milan, in a beautiful neoclassical palace. The gallery houses a collection of over 500 paintings, sculptures, and drawings, dating from the 14th to the 19th centuries.
The collection includes works by some of the greatest Italian artists, such as Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Caravaggio, Titian, and Tintoretto. The most famous painting in the gallery is Leonardo’s “The Lady with an Ermine”. Other highlights include Raphael’s “The Marriage of the Virgin”, Caravaggio’s “The Calling of St. Matthew”, and Titian’s “The Assumption of the Virgin”.
The Brera Art Gallery is a must-see for any art lover visiting Milan. It is a beautiful and well-curated collection that offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of Italian art.
Here are some additional details about the Brera Art Gallery:
- It was founded in 1809 by Napoleon Bonaparte.
- The collection was originally housed in the Academy of Fine Arts in Milan.
- The current building was designed by the architect Giuseppe Piermarini.
- The gallery is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm.
- Admission is €15 for adults.
5. Teatro alla Scala
Teatro alla Scala, also known as La Scala, is an opera house in Milan, Italy. It is one of the most famous opera houses in the world, and is known for its acoustics and its history of hosting some of the greatest opera singers and conductors.
La Scala was built in 1778, and has been rebuilt twice since then, most recently after being destroyed by a bombing raid in 1943. The current building is a neoclassical structure with a horseshoe-shaped auditorium. The auditorium has a capacity of over 2,000 people, and is known for its excellent acoustics.
La Scala has hosted many world premieres of operas, including Verdi’s “La Traviata” and “Aida”. It has also hosted performances by some of the greatest opera singers of all time, including Maria Callas, Luciano Pavarotti, and Plácido Domingo.
La Scala is a major cultural institution in Milan, and is considered to be one of the most important opera houses in the world. It is a must-visit for any fan of opera or classical music.
Here are some additional details about Teatro alla Scala:
- The theater is located in the center of Milan, on Piazza Scala.
- The auditorium is decorated with frescoes and sculptures, and is considered to be one of the most beautiful opera houses in the world.
- The theater has a resident orchestra and chorus, as well as a ballet company.
- La Scala hosts performances of opera, ballet, and concerts throughout the year.
- Tickets to performances at La Scala can be expensive, but there are also a limited number of discounted tickets available.
6. Navigli
Navigli is a district in Milan, Italy, that was once a major transportation hub for the city. Today, it is a popular tourist destination known for its canals, trendy bars and restaurants, and lively nightlife.
The Navigli district is located in the northwest of Milan, and is made up of two canals: the Naviglio Grande and the Naviglio Pavese. The canals were originally built in the 12th century to transport goods and people throughout the city. However, they fell into disrepair in the 19th century after the construction of the railways.
In the 1990s, the Navigli district was revitalized and transformed into a trendy neighborhood. Today, the canals are lined with bars, restaurants, and shops, and the area is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
Some of the things you can do in Navigli include:
- Take a boat ride on the canals.
- Visit the Navigli Market, a flea market that is held every Sunday.
- Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants in the area.
- Go bar hopping in the evening.
- Attend one of the many cultural events that are held in the area.
Navigli is a great place to experience the vibrant nightlife of Milan. The area is home to a wide variety of bars and clubs, and there is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a quiet drink or a wild night out, you will find it in Navigli.
Here are some tips for visiting Navigli:
- Visit during the day to see the canals and the surrounding architecture.
- Visit in the evening to experience the nightlife.
- Be prepared for crowds, especially during the weekends.
- Keep your belongings close to you, as pickpocketing is a problem in the area.
- Enjoy the atmosphere and the friendly people.
7. Porta Nuova
Porta Nuova is a district in the north of Milan, Italy. It is a former industrial area that has been redeveloped into a modern business and residential district. The district is home to several skyscrapers, including the Bosco Verticale, which are two residential towers that are covered in trees. Porta Nuova is also home to the Unicredit Tower, which is the tallest building in Italy.
The district is well-connected to the rest of Milan by public transportation. The Porta Garibaldi railway station is located in the district, and it is served by several high-speed trains. The district is also served by the Metro Line 2, which has a stop at Garibaldi FS station.
Porta Nuova is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The district is home to several museums, including the Pirelli Foundation and the Museo del Novecento. Porta Nuova is also home to several parks and gardens, including the Parco Biblioteca degli Alberi and the Gae Aulenti Square.
Here are some of the things you can do in Porta Nuova:
- Visit the Bosco Verticale, the two residential towers covered in trees.
- Take a walk through the Gae Aulenti Square, a public square with a large fountain.
- Visit the Pirelli Foundation, a museum dedicated to contemporary art.
- See a show at the Teatro alla Scala, one of the most famous opera houses in the world.
- Go shopping at the Rinascente department store, one of the largest department stores in Italy.
8. Corso Como
Corso Como is a street in Milan, Italy, that is known for its fashion and design shops, art galleries, and cafes. It is located in the Brera district, which is a trendy and upscale area of the city.
The street was originally named after the Como family, who owned a number of buildings on it. In the 1990s, it was transformed into a fashion and design hub by Carla Sozzani, who opened the 10 Corso Como concept store on the street. The store quickly became a popular destination for fashion lovers from all over the world.
Today, Corso Como is still a major fashion destination in Milan. It is home to a number of high-end boutiques, as well as art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. It is a popular place to shop, eat, and be seen.
Here are some of the things you can do on Corso Como:
- Visit the 10 Corso Como concept store. This store is a must-visit for any fashion lover. It sells a wide range of clothing, accessories, and home goods from both established and emerging designers.
- Browse the other fashion boutiques on the street. There are a number of high-end boutiques on Corso Como, selling everything from designer clothes to luxury watches.
- Visit the art galleries. Corso Como is also home to a number of art galleries, showcasing the work of both local and international artists.
- Have a coffee or a meal at one of the cafes or restaurants. There are a number of cafes and restaurants on Corso Como, where you can relax and people-watch.
- Take a stroll down the street and enjoy the atmosphere. Corso Como is a lively and vibrant street, and it is a great place to experience the fashion and design scene in Milan.
9. Piazza del Duomo
Piazza del Duomo is the main square in Milan, Italy. It is located in the center of the city and is surrounded by some of Milan’s most famous landmarks, including the Duomo, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and the Teatro alla Scala.
The square is a large, rectangular space that is paved with marble. It is dominated by the Duomo, which is a Gothic cathedral that is one of the largest in the world. The Duomo is decorated with intricate sculptures and gargoyles.
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a glass-and-steel arcade that runs through the square. It is a popular shopping destination and is home to many luxury stores. The Teatro alla Scala is an opera house that is one of the most famous in the world.
Piazza del Duomo is a lively and busy square that is always full of people. It is a popular tourist destination and is a must-see for any visitor to Milan.
Here are some additional details about Piazza del Duomo:
- The square is approximately 170 meters (560 feet) long and 100 meters (330 feet) wide.
- The Duomo was built over a period of over 600 years and was finally completed in 1906.
- The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II was built in the late 19th century and is one of the oldest shopping arcades in the world.
- The Teatro alla Scala was founded in 1778 and is one of the most famous opera houses in the world.
10. Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper
The Last Supper is a mural painting by Leonardo da Vinci, dated to c. 1495–1498. The painting represents the scene of the Last Supper of Jesus with the Twelve Apostles, as it is told in the Gospel of John – specifically the moment after Jesus announces that one of his apostles will betray him.
The painting is located on the wall of the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, Italy. It is 460 centimeters (181 in) high and 880 centimeters (346 in) wide.
The painting is done in tempera on dry plaster, which is a technique that is not as durable as fresco painting. This is why the painting has deteriorated over time.
The painting is divided into three groups of figures. In the center is Jesus, with the twelve apostles arranged on either side of him. The apostles are all reacting differently to Jesus’ announcement. Some are shocked, some are angry, and some are confused.
The painting is full of symbolism. For example, the bread and wine on the table represent the body and blood of Christ. The fish on the table represents Christ himself. And the gesture of Judas Iscariot, who is pointing to his own chest, represents his betrayal of Jesus.
The Last Supper is one of the most famous paintings in the world. It is a masterpiece of Renaissance art, and it has been studied and admired by people for centuries.
Here are some additional details about the painting:
- The painting is painted in a linear perspective, which means that the figures and objects are arranged in a way that creates the illusion of depth.
- The figures are painted in a variety of poses and expressions, which helps to create a sense of drama and emotion.
- The painting is full of detail, such as the folds of the clothing and the expressions on the faces of the apostles.
- The painting has been damaged over time by moisture, pollution, and restoration attempts.
- The painting has been restored several times, most recently in 1999.
In conclusion, Milan’s appeal extends far beyond its fashion reputation. With a treasure trove of historical landmarks, world-class art, and a thriving modern culture, the city offers a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary vibrancy. Whether you’re exploring the grandeur of the Duomo, savoring the flavors of Italian cuisine, or immersing yourself in artistic masterpieces, Milan has something to captivate every traveler’s heart. So, the next time you plan a trip to Italy, make sure to include these 10 must-visit tourist attractions in Milan on your itinerary for an unforgettable experience.
Cheap Hotels & Cheap Flights to Milan
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- Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)
- IATA code: MXP
- ICAO code: LIMC
- Location: Ferno, Lombardy, Italy
- Opened: 1962
- Runways: 3
- Terminals: 2
- Airlines: Over 100
- Destinations: Over 200
- Milan Linate Airport (LIN)
- IATA code: LIN
- ICAO code: LILL
- Location: Linate, Milan, Italy
- Opened: 1939
- Runways: 2
- Terminals: 1
- Airlines: Over 50
- Destinations: Over 100
- Bergamo Airport (BGY)
- IATA code: BGY
- ICAO code: LICC
- Location: Orio al Serio, Bergamo, Italy
- Opened: 1970
- Runways: 2
- Terminals: 1
- Airlines: Over 30
- Destinations: Over 100
