Milan is one of Italy’s top destinations for visitors interested in fashion, design, art, and delicious food. The metropolitan city in northern Italy has plenty to see and do all year round.
| No. | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Explore Historic Center | Visit landmarks like the Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. |
| 2 | Brera District | Discover art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. |
| 3 | Shop in Quadrilatero d’Oro | Luxury shopping in Milan’s fashion district. |
| 4 | Milan Fashion Week | Attend fashion shows and events. |
| 5 | Duomo Rooftops | Enjoy panoramic views of Milan. |
| 6 | La Scala Opera House | Explore the famous opera house. |
| 7 | Parco Sempione | Relax in Milan’s largest park. |
| 8 | Navigli District | Explore canals and vibrant nightlife. |
| 9 | Leonardo da Vinci Attractions | Visit sites related to the Renaissance artist. |
| 10 | Sforza Castle | Tour the historic castle and museums. |
| 11 | Leonardo’s Vineyard | See the vineyard once owned by da Vinci. |
| 12 | Day Trips to Lakes | Visit Lake Como and Lake Garda. |
| 13 | Italian Cuisine | Sample Milanese dishes and wines. |
| 14 | San Siro Stadium | Catch a football match. |
| 15 | Arts & Nightlife | Explore alternative culture and nightlife. |
If you’re planning a trip to Milan in 2024, here are 15 of the best things to experience in this vibrant city.
Explore the Historic Center & Main Attractions
Name and Location: Milan Historic Center, Milan, Italy
History and Significance: Milan’s historic core contains iconic landmarks like the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Teatro alla Scala and Sforza Castle that trace its history as a center of power.
What to Expect: Visiting the grand Gothic Duomo and climbing its rooftop for views. Browsing boutiques in the glamorous Galleria. Seeing opera at La Scala. Exploring Sforza Castle and museums.
Visitor Information: The historic center is very walkable. Metro lines and trams also provide access. Many major sights are around the Piazza del Duomo.
Milan’s historic center is compact and very walkable, making it easy to see many of the main sights in a day or two. Top attractions include the magnificent Gothic Duomo di Milano cathedral and the adjacent Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade, one of the oldest shopping malls in the world. Don’t miss the iconic Teatro alla Scala opera house and the museums at the Sforza Castle complex.
Several important churches are also found in the historic district, including the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio and the Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Leonardo da Vinci’s famous fresco, The Last Supper, is on display inside Santa Maria delle Grazie. Advance reservations are required to view the masterpiece.
Visit the Brera District
Name and Location: Brera District, Milan, Italy
History and Significance: This charming neighborhood of narrow streets is Milan’s historic artists’ quarter. It retains a Bohemian vibe and is home to museums, boutiques and cafes.
What to Expect: Strolling picturesque pedestrian lanes. Browsing trendy shops and the Brera Art Gallery. Relaxing at outdoor cafes and bars. Youthful, artsy atmosphere with students from nearby academies.
Visitor Information: Located just north of the Duomo, reachable on foot or metro. Main sights concentrated around Via Brera.
Just north of the city center, Brera is one of Milan’s hippest neighborhoods. Once home to numerous artists and intellectuals, Brera still exudes a bohemian vibe with its small streets lined with indie boutiques, cool cafés, and trendy bars. This is a great area to browse in small shops, enjoy an espresso, people watch, and feel the pulse of modern Milan.
Brera is also known for its museums, including the Pinacoteca di Brera art gallery, with works by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Piero della Francesca. The Orto Botanico di Brera botanical garden offers a peaceful green space.
Explore Quadrilatero d’Oro & Luxury Shopping
Name and Location: Quadrilatero d’Oro, Milan, Italy
History and Significance: This “Golden Quadrangle” contains prestigious luxury shopping streets and Italy’s high fashion district centered around brands like Prada and Armani.
What to Expect: Browsing the chic boutiques and flagship stores along Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga, Via Sant’Andrea and more. The height of Italian opulence and style.
Visitor Information: Bordered by landmarks like La Scala, the Quadrilatero is compact and walkable. Close to Duomo metro station.
For serious fashionistas, no trip to Milan is complete without exploring the “Quadrilatero d’Oro” or golden rectangle, the upscale shopping district around Via Montenapoleone. This is where you’ll find global luxury brands like Prada, Gucci, Armani, Versace, and more. Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, window shopping in Quadrilatero d’Oro offers an experience into Italian style and design.
In addition to the big names, there are also independent boutiques selling chic fashions, jewelry, accessories, and home decor. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, mentioned earlier, also houses many high-end retailers under its elegant 19th century arcade.
Attend Fashion Week Events
Name and Location: Milan Fashion Week, Milan, Italy
History and Significance: Milan Fashion Week occurs twice a year, showcasing the latest collections from top Italian designers during invitation-only runway shows and events. A major industry occasion.
What to Expect: Luxury brand showcases and parties. Celebrity spotting. Ambiance of excitement, glamour and style. More public events like fashion exhibitions.
Visitor Information: Main shows are held around Quadrilatero d’Oro. Occurs February and September. Look for free events or book guided tours.
Milan Fashion Week occurs twice a year, in February/March and September/October. If your travels coincide with fashion week, try to attend a show or event. There are also plenty of fashion exhibitions and parties that happen around the city during this time.
Seeing designers, models, fashion editors, and photographers buzzing around Milan adds extra energy and glamour to the city. Fashionistas can also people watch to spot budding trends before they hit the mainstream.
Visit Da Vinci’s The Last Supper
Name and Location: The Last Supper, Milan, Italy
History and Significance: Leonardo da Vinci’s famous mural masterpiece from the late 15th century depicting Jesus’ last meal before crucifixion. A pivotal work of art history.
What to Expect: Viewing the exquisite mural and its delicate details. Appreciating Leonardo’s innovative fresco technique and artistry. Strict time limits and access requirements.
Visitor Information: Located at the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Tickets must be booked far in advance online due to very limited entry. Easy to reach by public transit.
As noted earlier, Leonardo da Vinci’s fresco of The Last Supper is one of Milan’s most famous artworks. Due to its fragile condition, visitors are only allowed 15 minutes to view the masterpiece in the refectory of the Santa Maria delle Grazie church.
Entry requires booking tickets well in advance online. Once inside, you can admire the expressive painting and its ingenious composition. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for art lovers and historians.
Marvel at the Duomo Rooftops & Views
Name and Location: Duomo Rooftop, Milan, Italy
History and Significance: The roof terraces of Milan’s iconic Gothic Duomo provide stunning panoramic views over the city’s landmarks and piazzas from a height of over 100 meters.
What to Expect: Rising by elevator or stairs to the rooftop vista points surrounded by marble spires and statues. Photographing views of the cityscape and Alpine horizon. The majestic cathedral interior can also be visited.
Visitor Information: Located in Milan’s historic core. Access the roof via stairs or elevator with a valid ticket. Long lines are common so book ahead online when possible. Open daily.
For jaw-dropping city views, head to the rooftop terraces of the Milan Cathedral. Tickets include walking through the cathedral interior, the archaeological area, and access to the elevator up to the roof. From here, you can admire the spires, arches, and marble adornments up close while also soaking in panoramic views across Milan. On a clear day, you can even see the Alps in the distance.
Tour La Scala Opera House & Museum
Name and Location: La Scala Opera House and Museum, Milan, Italy
History and Significance: The historic theater of La Scala has been one of the world’s foremost opera and ballet venues since 1776. The museum traces its illustrious productions and history.
What to Expect: Seeing a performance in the ornate red-and-gold interior. Museum displays of costumes, instruments, artifacts. Tours visit theater, museum and backstage areas.
Visitor Information: Located in Milan’s city center. Museum open daily. Performance tickets and museum/tour passes should be booked well in advance online.
Even if you don’t catch an opera performance, you can still explore behind the scenes at La Scala on a guided museum tour. The theater dates back to 1778 and is one of the most famous in the world. The museum contains opera artifacts, costumes, manuscripts, paintings, and other collections.
There is also a backstage tour that allows you to glimpse behind the curtains and see the massive stage machinery. Tour schedules vary by season, so check ahead when planning your visit. Catching a performance here is a magical treat for opera lovers.
Stroll Through Milan’s Parco Sempione
Name and Location: Parco Sempione, Milan, Italy
History and Significance: Created in the late 1800s, this large scenic park provides a green oasis in bustling Milan. Popular spot for recreation and events. Home to the Arch of Peace.
What to Expect: Strolling or biking the paths and bridges. Relaxing by ponds. Letting kids play at the playgrounds. Exercising at the arena. Seeing cultural exhibitions.
Visitor Information: Located just behind Sforza Castle in the city center. Easily accessible by foot, metro, tram or bike. Great place for a rejuvenating break.
Milan has several large parks, but Parco Sempione north of the Castle is one of the most popular green spaces. The beautiful park has winding paths, ponds, gardens, and grassy lawns perfect for strolling or resting on a bench. It’s also home to the Triennale Milano contemporary design museum, the Arcimboldi opera theater, and the Torre Branca observation tower.
Visit Parco Sempione to immerse yourself in nature without leaving the city center. The park comes alive with activity on summer weekends and hosts concerts and open-air cinema in the warmer months.
Explore Navigli District by Boat
Name and Location: Navigli District, Milan, Italy
History and Significance: This neighborhood centered around Milan’s scenic canals dates back to the 12th century as a trading and transport hub. It remains lively today with shops, bars and nightlife.
What to Expect: Strolling the picturesque canal banks lined with cafes and boutiques. Dining al fresco by the water. Taking boat tours along the canal channels. Vibrant nightlife around bars and jazz clubs.
Visitor Information: South of the historic center, easily reached by metro or tram. Pedestrian areas make navigating on foot easy. Canalside activities daily; nights lively on weekends.
The Navigli district south of the historic center is known for its scenic canals lined with restaurants, bars, and antique shops. Take a boat tour along the canals to admire Milan’s old architecture and bridges from a unique vantage point. At night, this area transforms into one of Milan’s liveliest nightlife zones.
Stop for dinner at a canal-side eatery or grab drinks and listen to live music in the piazzas. The neighborhood has a relaxed, lively vibe different from the more upscale parts of central Milan.
Learn about Leonardo da Vinci
Name and Location: Leonardo da Vinci Sites, Milan, Italy
History and Significance: Leonardo da Vinci spent formative years in Milan under the patronage of Duke Ludovico Sforza, creating defining works of art and invention. Sites around the city commemorate his legacy.
What to Expect: Seeing Leonardo’s “Last Supper” mural. Visiting museums displaying his artworks and models of inventions. Seeing sites like Santa Maria delle Grazie where he worked. Learning about his life and Milanese period.
Visitor Information: Many sites are located in the city center. Advance booking required for “Last Supper” tickets. Guided tours cover broader Leonardo connections.
Da Vinci’s Last Supper fresco may be Milan’s most famous artwork, but there are other sites related to the multi-talented Renaissance man. The National Museum of Science and Technology has models of da Vinci’s innovative machines and inventions. The fine art Pinacoteca Ambrosiana features an important collection of da Vinci drawings and parchments.
There are also original artworks by da Vinci on display at the Sforza Castle museum complex. Studying his work allows you to better understand da Vinci’s genius across disciplines like art, science, engineering, and anatomy.
Tour the Sforza Castle & Museums
Name and Location: Sforza Castle, Milan, Italy
History and Significance: This grand 15th-century fortress was home to the Sforza dukes who ruled Renaissance Milan. It now houses museums with art, furniture, sculpture and archaeology.
What to Expect: Exploring the castle grounds, courtyards and museums. Exhibits showcase Michelangelo sculptures, Egyptian artifacts, musical instruments and more. A glimpse into Milan’s past.
Visitor Information: Located near the Parco Sempione. Open Tuesday-Sunday. Tickets available on site or online. Easily reached by public transportation.
A marvel of medieval military might, the Sforza Castle now houses several specialized museums and galleries. The sprawling complex has nearly 200,000 works ranging from paintings to decorative art, ancient artifacts, musical instruments and more.
Must-see museums include the Pinacoteca, Museum of Ancient Art, the Egyptian section, and Michelangelo’s final sculpture, the Pietà Rondanini. There is also an observation tower and walls overlooking the city parks. Give yourself ample time to explore the castle’s treasures at leisure.
See Leonardo’s Vineyard
Name and Location: Leonardo’s Vineyard, Milan, Italy
History and Significance: Leonardo da Vinci tended a vineyard behind Santa Maria delle Grazie while working on “The Last Supper.” The site commemorates his multi-faceted genius.
What to Expect: A small vineyard recreating Leonardo’s original plantings. Seeing interpretive panels about his scientific interests. Imagining Leonardo observing nature’s details.
Visitor Information: Located just behind Santa Maria delle Grazie near the city center. Free entry, open daily.
Travel a bit outside Milan to visit Leonardo da Vinci’s vineyard and country home in the town of Vimercate, about 30 minutes away. Here you can view a faithful reconstruction of da Vinci’s garden and vineyard based on detailed sketches and notes in his notebooks. Leonardo was quite the innovator when it came to horticulture and irrigation systems too.
The site provides wonderful insight into Leonardo’s more personal side and immersive nature. You can also visit da Vinci’s nearby Villa Sironi mansion, the base of his operations near Milan in later life.
Take a Day Trip to Lake Como
Name and Location: Lake Como, Italy
History and Significance: This stunning glacial lake north of Milan has enchanted visitors for centuries with its scenic Alpine setting. Popular for relaxation, sightseeing, and villas of the rich and famous.
What to Expect: Taking ferries to waterside villages. Strolling lush gardens. Soaking up scenic vistas of the lake and mountains. Villas, churches, restaurants, shopping. Laid-back resort ambiance.
Visitor Information: About 1 hour from Milan by train. Boats and buses provide connections around the lake. Best from April to September.
If time permits, take a day trip from Milan to the spectacular Lake Como, less than an hour away. Ride the train or drive to the photogenic lakeside villages of Bellagio, Varenna, or Menaggio, which exude romantic charm. Explore historic villas and gardens, stroll the lakeshore promenades, and enjoy lunch at a waterside cafe.
You can also take a boat tour on Lake Como to fully appreciate the scenic vistas from an aquatic vantage point. Lake Como has mesmerized visitors for centuries, so don’t miss this natural respite near Milan.
Indulge in Italian Food & Drink
Name and Location: Food & Drink in Milan, Italy
History and Significance: Milan’s dining scene encompasses elegant restaurants, cozy trattorias, wine bars, street food, cafes and more. The city boasts culinary diversity.
What to Expect: Savoring regional dishes like osso buco, risottos and pasta. Indulging in Italian coffee, wines and aperitifs. Tasting Milan’s signature panettone cake. Exploring eateries from historic to hip.
Visitor Information: The Navigli district is full of dining options. Food tours are a great way to sample local flavors.
Italian cuisine needs no introduction – it’s among the best on the planet. Milan has thousands of eateries serving regional Lombardy fare, classic Italian dishes, and international flavors. For authentic risottos, polenta dishes, and stuffed pastas, head to a traditional osteria or trattoria. Family-run tavernas in older neighborhoods dish out homestyle recipes and warm service.
Pizza and gelato needs no explanation. For fine dining, Michelin-starred restaurants provide white-tablecloth experiences. And of course, Italian wine, espresso, and aperitivo cocktails like Campari or Aperol Spritz must be sampled when in Milan. The café and dining scene here truly satisfies.
Catch a Soccer Match at San Siro Stadium
Name and Location: San Siro Stadium, Milan, Italy
History and Significance: Home to Milan’s acclaimed soccer teams AC Milan and Inter Milan. Italy’s largest stadium hosted the 1990 FIFA World Cup Final. Electric match-day atmosphere.
What to Expect: Catching a match surrounded by passionate fans. Stadium tours to see locker rooms, field and trophies. Soccer-themed exhibits in the stadium museum.
Visitor Information: West of downtown Milan. Matches occur regularly when teams are in season. Book tickets or tours in advance online. Metro access via San Siro stop.
Soccer (or football) is a huge deal in Italy, and Milan has two powerhouse teams – AC Milan and Inter Milan. When either team is playing at the city-owned San Siro Stadium, the atmosphere crackles with infectious energy. Tickets aren’t too difficult to get but you can also join the cheering crowds at a sports bar.
If you time a visit for a match day, you’ll see the pre-game buzz and enthusiastic fans singing team anthems and wearing their red-and-black (AC Milan) or blue-and-black (Inter Milan) jerseys. It’s an experience that captures local passion and pride for beloved clubs.
Check Out Alternative Arts & Nightlife
Name and Location: Alternative Arts & Nightlife, Milan, Italy
History and Significance: Alongside Milan’s fashion and sophistication exists a vibrant subculture of alternative arts, music and nightlife. Neighborhoods like Nolo and Isola offer creative energy.
What to Expect: Street art tours. Catching live music at indie clubs. Exploring funky boutiques and stores. People watching at artsy cafes. Glimpse of Milan’s edgier side.
Visitor Information: Nolo north of the center and Isola district have clusters of alternative culture. Check event listings for popular nights and shows.
Beyond the historic monuments and luxury shopping, Milan has a thriving subculture for edgier fashions, art, and nightlife. The emerging Zona Tortona design district has converted warehouses that host events during Fashion Week. Cool cocktail bars and underground music clubs attract young creatives and students. The artsy Nolo district in north Milan also has an authentic vibe with street art murals, ethnic eateries, and multi-cultural flavor.
Alternative tours like Street Art Photowalk provide insider glimpses into Milan’s cooler creative scenes. Don’t limit yourself to the touristy areas to fully experience the diversity of Milan’s neighborhoods and people.
Relax in a Park or Public Garden
Name and Location: Public Parks & Gardens, Milan, Italy
History and Significance: Milan has many scenic public parks and gardens that offer a respite from the busy city. Favorites include Sempione Park, Guastalla Gardens and the Giardini Pubblici.
What to Expect: Strolling amid trees, fountains and greenery. Finding a peaceful spot to picnic or read. Letting kids play. Enjoying flowers and people watching. Relaxation away from the crowds.
Visitor Information: Numerous parks around the city center. Guastalla Gardens near Sforza Castle. Open daily, free entry.
After long days of urban exploring, spend some time chilling out in Milan’s public green spaces. The Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli near the Castle offer formal gardens, play areas for kids, and a planetarium. Parco Lambro has a lake and sports facilities northeast of the center. The futuristic Biblioteca degli Alberi has over 100 species of plants and trees interspersed with walkways.
The grounds at Sempione Castle and Villa Belgiojoso are other scenic spots to slow down. Also see if any open-air concerts or festivals are scheduled in the parks for your visit. Spending time in nature balances the busier urban attractions.
Take a Day Trip to Lake Garda
Name and Location: Lake Garda, Italy
History and Significance: Italy’s largest lake, located west of Milan, is a popular vacation destination. It offers stunning Alpine scenery, resort towns, beaches, gardens, and medieval castles.
What to Expect: Boating, sunbathing, watersports. Hiking and mountain views. Scenic villages, gardens, wine tasting. Relaxing or active holiday activities.
Visitor Information: About 2-3 hours drive from Milan. Train and bus connections available. Many lodging options around the lake. Ideal May-September.
Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake located about 90 minutes east of Milan. Spend a day or two admiring the stunning blue waters surrounded by mountains and picturesque villages. You can swim, go boating, try windsurfing, hike, or just relax lakeside and enjoy the natural beauty.
Places like Sirmione, Desenzano del Garda, and Torri del Benaco exude old-world Italian charm with waterfront promenades, castles, and outdoor cafes. The resort towns get bustling in summer but still offer respite from crowded Milan. A visit to Lake Garda provides the perfect scenic counterpoint.
Conclusion
Milan dazzles visitors with its historic architecture, cultural riches, high fashion, vibrant street life, and mouthwatering cuisine. From iconic sites like the Duomo and La Scala Theater to trendy districts oozing style and energy, there is truly something for everyone in Milan.
The city provides the ideal blend of urban pleasures and tranquility in its leafy parks. With this list of top 15 experiences, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time in Milan whether you visit in 2024 or beyond. The city continues to grow and evolve but its classic charm remains eternal. Have an amazing trip to this capital of culture and creativity in the heart of Italy!