Things to Do in Milan
Located in Northern Italy, Milan is widely recognised as the global capital of shopping and high fashion. Home to the Duomo di Milano and Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, it’s also well-known for its world class art and beautiful architecture.
Packed full of shopping hotspots, vibrant restaurants and bars, and beautiful places to explore, Milan is one of the most spectacular cities to visit in Italy.
There’s so much to do and so many places to explore during your visit, you’ll be spoilt for choice! Explore our range of Milan holidays to find the latest offers.
To make planning your trip that little bit easier, we’ve scouted some of our favourite spots in the city – you won’t want to miss out! Let’s take a look at some of the best things to do on your holiday in Milan.
What are Milan’s main tourist attractions?
Milan is full of picture-perfect attractions teeming with life. Let’s explore Milan’s top sights and tourist attractions.
Duomo di Milano
A trip to Milan isn’t complete without visiting Duomo di Milano! Milan’s famous cathedral is one of the largest churches in the world, complete with 135 spires and 3,400 statues.Its walkable rooftop is one of the cathedral’s most popular features and worth the extra cost, with visitors flocking to the rooftop to soak up the panoramic views across the piazza and of the city.
When was Duomo di Milano built?
It took almost six centuries to build this enchanting cathedral between 1386 and 1965, making it almost 635 years old.
Top traveller tip: Buy your Duomo tickets in advance to avoid the long queues during peak tourist times. You won’t want to miss out, especially if this is your first trip to the city.
After exploring Duomo di Milano, take the time to enjoy the buzz of Milan from its vibrant square, Piazza del Duomo.
Top traveller tip: For the early risers among us, head to the piazza at sunrise to enjoy the tranquillity of the square when there aren’t many tourists around.
The Last Supper
Leonardo da Vinci’s legacy is an important part of Milan’s heritage. Da Vinci lived in the city for much of his life, leaving behind treasures such as The Last Supper, perhaps Milan’s most famous mural.
When was The Last Supper painted?
It’s a late 15th century painting believed to be created between 1495-1498.
Which museum is The Last Supper in?
This popular mural can be found at the Santa Maria delle Grazie dining hall.
How far is The Last Supper from the Duomo?
It’s a brisk 20-minute walk.
Top traveller tip: Tickets for the Last Supper are highly sought after so book far in advance to avoid missing out. Tickets are released two months at a time so set yourself a reminder and visit Tuesday – Sunday from 8.15am to 7pm!
San Siro Stadium
One of the largest football stadiums in Europe, seating 75,923 people, San Siro Stadium can be found in the San Siro district of Milan. For any sports fans visiting Milan, San Siro Stadium will be on the top of your to-see list.
Who plays at the San Siro Stadium?
The stadium is the home of AC Milan and Inter Milan. True football fans can enjoy a tour of the stadium. During your stadium tour you can experience the behind the scenes of the stadium, enter the locker rooms and soak up the views of the San Siro field itself.
Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology
The Leonardo da Vinci Museum is a definite must-see during your visit if you’re travelling with kids. Full of interactive, educational exhibitions covering a range of fascinating topics, from transport and technology to da Vinci’s inventions, it may take you a few hours to explore all the exhibits.
What free things are there to do in Milan?
Whilst Milan may be more on the pricier side compared to its neighbouring Italian cities, there are still a huge number of free or cheap things to do for budget-conscious visitors and backpackers.
Parco Sempione
At 95 acres, Parco Sempione is the largest parks in Milan and makes for a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. With lots of sunny and shady spots to pick from overlooking the beautiful lake in the centre of the park, pack a picnic and soak up the Italian sun.
Take a walk around the grounds to find the Napoleonic Arco della Pace – a famous landmark that translates as the Arch of Peace. Wandering through the park, you’ll also come across a tower, Torre Branca, which you can pay a small fee to go up to see some fantastic views of Milan.
Top traveller tip: Although this may be slightly harder to plan, head up the tower on a clear day for the best views of the city. On a particularly clear day, you may even be able to see all the way to the Alps!
Castello Sforzesco
Castello Sforzesco is another one of the many attractions found in Parco Sempione. Construction first began in the 1300s, however the castle was built in the 15th century by the Duke of Milan, Francesco Sforza, and after several expansions following on from this, it became one of the largest citadels in Europe.This impressive attraction is free to walk around and enjoy, although tickets to enter the museums and galleries within the castle are ticketed.
Leonardo da Vinci’s Horse
Leonardo’s Horse is a historic sculpture that was commissioned in 1482 by the Duke of Milan, Ludovico il Moro. The horse was not completed by Leonardo da Vinci himself; he produced a clay model of the sculpture which was later destroyed. The final bronze horse was finished in 1999, 500 years after the original model was destroyed. With so much history behind it, this impressive masterpiece is definitely something you’ll want to see during your visit.
Piazza Mercanti
Just off Duomo di Milano, you’ll find Piazza Mercanti. This historic medieval merchants’ square is home to various statues including Augustine of Hippo and is definitely worth a visit if you’ve got a spare 30 minutes to wander around.
Bosco Verticale
Bosco Verticale, translating to Vertical Forest, is a pair of residential tower blocks in the Porta Nuova district of Milan. Each tower is said to house 900 trees, 5,000 shrubs and 11,000 floral plants; a unique, contemporary feature that stands out amongst the busy streets of Milan.
Where to go shopping in Milan
Not only do visitors flock to Milan for its breath-taking sights and exceptional architecture and museums, the city is also a popular spot for the fashionistas of the world. Milan is famous for its fashion weeks and array of designer boutiques, and its shopping scene really does live up to expectations.
Quadrilatero della Moda
The Quadrilatero della Moda (quadrilateral of fashion) is the name of the upscale shopping district, bounded by four famous streets recognised for their luxury shops and designer boutiques. To name a few, Hugo Boss, Balenciaga, Dolce & Gabbana and Prada can all be found here in the fashion district.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Italy’s oldest active shopping mall, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, was built between 1865 and 1877 and is named after Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of the Kingdom of Italy.The shopping arcade predominately houses luxury retailers, although many tourists pay the Galleria a visit to simply just window shop and soak up the spectacular architecture, with its impressive unique iron and glass roof and dome. It’s also the perfect spot for indulging in upscale dining and people-watching from the many lavish bars and restaurants situated within the Galleria.
Top traveller tip: Visit the Galleria at night as well as during the day; you’ll be in for a treat!
CityLife Shopping District
CityLife Shopping District is Italy’s biggest urban shopping district, packed full of shops, restaurants, bars and a cinema. The perfect destination for a rainy day or to grab a bite to eat.
What things can you do in Milan at night?
Milan is a vibrant city that really comes to life at night. With plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, you relax and enjoy an aperitif, but there’s also the opera house if you fancy a more sophisticated evening of entertainment.
Teatro alla Scala
If you’re a fan of the opera, Teatro alla Scala is the place for you on your trip to Milan!Enjoy an Italian opera, an orchestra concert or a classical ballet performance at Milan’s world-class opera house. Not only that, you’ll be simply amazed by the opera house’s stunning interior and the museum’s fascinating displays, providing an insight into the theatre’s history and previous performances over the years.
Fancy an Aperitivo?
Perhaps our favourite Italian tradition, an Aperitivo is a pre-meal drink, generally enjoyed by the locals between 7pm and 9pm, to work up an appetite for dinner. A glass of wine or light cocktail (think Negroni or Aperol Spritz) is most commonly paired with small plates and appetisers, including olives, bruschetta, focaccia, meats and cheeses. This is a great way to experience the local culture and unwind after a busy day of exploring Milan and its many wonderful tourist attractions.
Navigli
If you’re after a buzzing atmosphere, Navigli is the place to go. Once the most important canal in the city, the Navigilo Grande was used as a trade route in the 13th century, and now is quickly becoming one of the most popular areas to visit in Milan.
Where to go in Navigli
The main stretch along the canal is packed full of waterfront eateries and bars. Head to the side streets just off the canal to explore Navigli’s independent shops and many hidden gems.
How far is Navigli from Duomo?
The distance between Piazza del Duomo and Naviglio Grande is 2 km.
Top traveller trip: Tie in your visit so you can catch the sun setting over the canal whilst sipping on an Aperol spritz.
Brera District
The Brera District of Milan is home to an array of luxurious restaurants and bars, buzzing with ambience. After dinner, wander through the picturesque streets and take in the beautiful architecture this district has to offer.
Milan’s Christmas market
If you’re visiting over the Christmas period, you’re in for a treat!Milan’s traditional Christmas market is definitely worth an evening visit. With over 60 market stalls spread around the Duomo di Milano, wander around the beautiful stalls selling handmade Christmas decorations and enjoy the sweet aromas of the traditional food whilst sipping on a hot drink.
Where to eat in Milan
If Milan’s many must-see tourist attractions aren’t enough, the cities’ dining scene will be enough to tempt you!Milan’s culinary scene is full of variety. From fine dining restaurants and outlets dedicated to traditional Italian cuisine, to street food and pizza joints, there’s so much on offer. If you’re after your daily caffeine fix or looking to indulge in a sweet treat, Milan also has a huge number of cafés, coffee shops and gelato options to choose from too.
What are the best restaurants in Milan?
Piz – Fantastic pizza, fresh ingredients and friendly staff. Don’t let the limited menu put you off!
Ristorante Da Giacomo – Tuck into Tuscan and Ligurian dishes in this elegant Milanese restaurant.
Fioraio Bianchi Caffè – A rustic café filled with flowers and greenery. This part-restaurant, part-flower laboratory houses a contemporary menu that changes every two months.
What are the best bars in Milan?
Backdoor 43 - Found on the Naviglio Grande, visit the world’s smallest bar at just four-square metres.
Terrazza Aperol - A lively bar right next to the Duomo di Milano; the perfect spot for an aperitif with a view. Soak up the buzzing atmosphere of the piazza and marvel at the Duomo.
Twist on Classic - Another vibey bar on the Naviglio Grande, this bar serves up your favourite classic cocktails but with a twist.
Where is the best gelato in Milan?
La Gelateria Della Musica - Where every flavour is named after a famous musician, with an array of different delicious flavours to choose from. What’s not to love?
Gelateria Paganelli - Freshly made gelato in a wide variety of flavours and a range of sorbets too.
Artico Gelateria Tradizionale - Natural, hand-turned gelato and sorbets. Perfect for chocolate fans.
Book a holiday to Milan with Viva Holidays
Buzzing with picture-perfect attractions, architecture and high fashion, there’s plenty of things to do in Milan, making it the perfect destination for a city break or a long weekend visit.Explore our range of Milan holidays to find the latest offers. Planning a longer trip to Milan? Why not head to Venice or Lake Garda for a day trip? Or design your own trip using our online holiday builder.Contact us today to find out more and enquire about booking your upcoming Italian adventure.
