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14 BEST Places to Visit in Milan
As Italy’s commercial and financial center, Milan is a sparkling metropolis that’s buzzing at all hours of the day. But despite its economic influence, Milan also manages to retain a strong cultural and artistic influence.
Besides being considered the fashion capital of the world, it also is home to modern art galleries, Gothic cathedrals, and world-class culinary dishes. And while there’s no shortage of fascinating cities in Italy, Milan seems to top them all!
And because Milan is a city that mixes old school heritage with modern ideas and values, there’s a seemingly endless amount of sights and attractions. During your visit, it may be overwhelming to pick the best places to visit in Milan.
1 . Piazza del Duomo:
When you stand in the middle of Piazza del Duomo, you feel as if you’re in the center of the world. There’s always something to see and do here, as locals and tourists both flock to the piazza at all hours of the day. And since it’s the location for some of Milan’s biggest attractions, you could easily spend an entire day without having to go very far! If you’re looking to soak in the authentic Milanese atmosphere, then you can’t miss a visit to this sprawling, open-air space. Some of the city’s most famous buildings surround the edges of the piazza, including the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the Royal Palace of Milan, Palazzo dell’Arengario, and Palazzo Carminati.
2 . Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie:
This unassuming building is centrally located in Milan, steps away from the iconic Duomo cathedral. Despite its unique red-brick exterior, the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie is actually known for housing Leonardo da Vinci’s biggest masterpiece, the Last Supper. This 15th-century mural is one of the world’ most recognizable paintings and depicts Jesus’ final meal that he shared with his Apostles before his crucifixion. This is one of the best places to visit in Milan!
3 . Grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II:
The Grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II might be the most luxurious and ornate shopping mall you’ll ever step foot inside! This shopping promenade is covered by two glass-vaulted arcades, which is considered one of the most exceptional works of glass and iron architecture in the world. In the center is an octagonal glass dome, which glistens in the sun as it lets the light shine through. And best of all, Grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II connects the Duomo to the Teatro Alla Scala, which means you can do a little shopping in between all the other things you’re doing in Milan!
4 . Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology:
Not only is the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology the largest science museum in Italy, but it’s also the most extensive collection of da Vinci’s inventions. Located inside the San Vittore al Corpo monastery, the museum is a fun day out for the whole family. As one of the most fun places to visit in Milan. Children will love the hands-on experiments, as each section in the museum includes an interactive laboratory exhibit. And while the kids play, adults will also enjoy the museum from an educational perspective.
5. La Scala Opera:
Why it’s awesome: Milan attracts a wide variety of visitors but caters primarily to those looking for luxury and opulence. And although there are many fantastic places in Milan, none are as glamorous as La Scala Opera. Besides hosting some of the world’s most talented artists, the building itself is also a work of art. As soon as you step foot inside the theater, you’ll notice the lush, red velvet seats and curtains as well as the glistening, gold design of the balcony facades.
6. AC Milan San Siro Stadium:
As one of the premier sporting events in Italy, the San Siro Stadium is a must-visit for football fans (no matter what team you cheer for!). Holding over 80,000 screaming spectators and fans, it’s one of the largest stadiums in not just Italy, but in all of Europe. Besides being home to both AC Milan and Inter Milan teams, San Siro has also hosted the World Cup and European Cup Finals. And besides its size, it’s also one of Milan’s top concert and event venues!
7 . Parco Sempione – A must visit place in Milan on the weekend:
If you’re in Milan for the weekend and looking to escape the bustling city center, then venture over to Parco Sempione. Located next to the Sforza Castle, it’s considered one of the largest and most relaxing parks in Milan. With dozens of trails, walkways, and cycle paths, Parco Sempione is the perfect place for a quiet afternoon walk or bike ride. And for art lovers, the park is also home to a variety of monuments and statues, including the Palazzo dell’Arte museum and exhibit.
8 . Brera District – One of the most underrated places to see in Milan:
Filled with independent boutiques, trendy coffee shops, and hip bars, the Brera District is the artistic heart of Milan. Here, you’ll find artists, musicians, and other boho-types walking the streets shopping for antiques, sipping on coffee, or heading to an art museum. Compared to the skyscrapers and high-rises Milan is famously known for, the Brera is a breath of fresh air. As you walk the cobblestone streets admiring the gorgeous, ivy-lined buildings, you’ll feel as if you’ve found a local, authentic side of Milan.
9 . Naviglio Grande:
You don’t have to visit Venice or Amsterdam to view canals! Milan has it’s own canal network, the Naviglio Grande, which flows from Porta Ticinese to the Ticino River. And best of all, it’s located just a few steps from the city center where you’ll find the best hostels in Milan. But despite its central location, this hidden gem is often overlooked by the crowds of tourists, making it a great escape. And the walkways on either side of the canal are filled with shops, restaurants, and bars to entertain even the wariest of travelers.
10 .Basilica di San Lorenzo:
Built in 402, the Basilica di San Lorenzo is one of the oldest churches in Italy. But you might not even notice since it’s undergone several facelifts despite being constructed during the Roman times. It’s considered one of the most beautiful works of middle age and early Christian architecture, with four vestibules, four bell towers, and an octagonal dome in the center. Because of this, it’s served as a model for famous churches and basilicas around the world.
11 .Castello Sforzesco:
As one of Milan’s most famous attractions, Castello Sforzesco is an impressive 15th-century castle set amongst beautiful, lush gardens. Although the Duke of Milan built it, it was extensively reconstructed 400 years later. But this is not your average castle or fortress! Castello Sforzesco actually houses nine different art galleries and museums, making it one of the most visited sites in all of Milan.
12 . Corso Como:
Why it’s awesome: Located in the thriving, new section of Milan, Corso Como is a unique space filled with modern restaurants, boutique shops, and lively nightclubs. With dozens of venues lining the wide, pedestrianized street, Corso Como is bustling with locals and tourists all times of the day. Although it’s not a big space, Corso Como still manages to feel like it’s own world, with a distinctive, upscale atmosphere and clientele. Not to mention, it’s great for people watching!
13 .Milan Chinatown:
The Chinatown in Milan may be small at only a few short streets, but it’s the largest Chinese community in all of Italy. It was initially established in the early 1920s by Chinese immigrants from Zhejiang province, who came over to work in textile and leather shops. Since then, it’s become home to over 20,000 ethnic Chinese citizens. And now, Chinatown has grown to become a buzzing cultural center filled with salons, boutiques, and herbal medicine pharmacies. And with dozens of silk, leather, and fabric shops, it remains one of the biggest ethnic commercial centers in the city.
14 .Leonardo da Vinci’s Vineyard:
If you’ve ever wanted to walk in da Vinci’s footsteps, then his vineyard is the place to do so! The Duke of Milan gifted da Vinci this stunning vineyard, which lays next to Chiesa Santa Maria delle Grazie. It was here where da Vinci spent time while completing his masterpiece, the Last Supper. Surrounded by green trees, flowing fountains, and flowering gardens, the vineyard is a rare glimpse into the aristocratic lifestyle of the Italian Renaissance.
