Travelers should make the trip to Milan, one of Italy’s most famous cities. Milan, which is in the northern Italian province of Lombardy, is well-known for its fashion, design, and active art scene. The Gothic-style Milan Cathedral, or “Duomo,” which dominates the city’s center and offers breath taking views from its rooftop terrace, is one of the area’s most well-known attractions. The mediaeval Castello Sforzesco, a fortress constructed in the 15th century and now home to a number of museums and art collections, is another attraction open to visitors.
High-end boutiques and designer businesses line the streets of Milan’s fashion sector, making the city renowned for its excellent shopping and fashion industry. Milan is a center for modern art and culture aside from fashion, with a number of galleries, museums, and exhibitions showing the works of both well-known and emerging artists.
Foodies will enjoy adore Milan’s gastronomy, which includes traditional Italian delicacies like panettone, risotto, and ossobuco. The aperitivo culture of the city is another feature; before dinner, residents meet for drinks and small nibbles. For tourists seeking to discover the finest of Italy, Milan is a must-visit location because of its distinctive fusion of art, fashion, and cuisine. In this article, we will take a closer look at what you should do and see when you visit Milan.
Visit the Milan Cathedral
The majestic Gothic Milan Cathedral, usually referred to as the Duomo di Milano, is situated in the city’s center. With its impressive façade adorned with more than 3,000 statues and its interior with lovely stained glass windows and complex woodwork, it took approximately 600 years to build and is one of the largest churches in the world.
Visitors can go to the cathedral’s rooftop for sweeping views of Milan and its surroundings. With 251 stairs to climb, the ascent can be difficult, but the stunning vistas are absolutely worth it. In contrast, guests can use the lift to reach the terrace and take in the views without having to climb.
Many priceless works of art, including various sculptures, paintings, and tapestries, may be seen inside Milan Cathedral. A visit to the cathedral’s museum is also recommended if you want to examine historical artefacts and learn more about the building process.
In summary, the Milan Cathedral is a must-see location in Milan because of its beautiful architecture, amazing views, and extensive history.
Do a Hop on Hop off Bus Tour in Milan
If you do not have much time, hopping on and off a bus tour is a terrific way to see Milan’s most well-known sites and monuments. These excursions are a well-liked choice for those who want to explore the city’s top attractions quickly and without having to worry about using public transport or getting lost.
The flexibility that a hop on hop off bus tour offers is one of its main benefits. You can decide to get off at any point that appeals to you and explore the region alone, or you can decide to stay on the bus the entire way and take in the commentary from the guide. Simply wait for the next bus to arrive when you are ready to resume your tour.
A hop-on-hop-off bus tour in Milan frequently makes stops at the Milan Cathedral, Sforza Castle, La Scala Opera House, Brera Art Gallery, and other well-known landmarks. Additionally, some trips provide complimentary boat rides or pedestrian tours.
Overall, a hop on hop off bus trip is a practical and effective method to explore the finest of Milan while taking your time to take in the city’s well-known landmarks and attractions.
If you would like to book a ticket on a hop on hop off bus tour in Milan, click here on the CitySightseeing banner below to select from one of our preferred suppliers.
Visit the Mediaeval Castello Sforzesco Castle
Milan is home to the historic Castello Sforzesco castle, a favorite destination for travelers. The castle, which was initially constructed in the 15th century, served as the residence of the influential Sforza family, who dominated Milan during the Renaissance. Before being renovated and made available to the public in the early 20th century, the castle was afterwards utilized for military purposes and worked as a barracks, a hospital, and even a prison.
The castle now serves as a cultural hub and museum where historical artefacts and works of art are displayed. The several halls and courtyards of the castle, notably the Museo d’Arte Antica, which displays works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, are open to visitors. A museum of ancient art, a museum of musical instruments, and a museum of applied arts are also located within the castle.
Visitors can take advantage of the castle’s numerous events and exhibitions, which include concerts, plays, and art exhibitions, in addition to the museum collections. The castle is a must-see site for anybody visiting Milan due to its prime position, which attracts both locals and tourists.
Nightlife in Milan
Milan is renowned for its thriving nightlife, which offers something for everyone’s tastes. The city provides a wide range of options for partygoers, from chic cocktail bars to exciting nightclubs and live music venues. The Navigli neighborhood is well known for its lively canal-side bars and eateries at night. Head to the Brera neighborhood, which is renowned for its upmarket clubs and fashionable pubs, for a more upscale experience.
The Corso Como neighborhood, which has some of the city’s sexiest bars and nightclubs, is also a fantastic choice. Hip-hop, house, and techno are just a few of the musical styles you may dance the night away to here. There are numerous taverns, eateries, and nightclubs in the famed Porta Ticinese neighborhood that are open till the wee hours of the morning.
Overall, Milan has plenty to offer everyone, whether you prefer a laid-back evening with friends or a night of dancing and partying.
Go Watch AC Milan or Inter Milan at the San Siro
Two of the most renowned football clubs in the world, AC Milan and Inter Milan, call Milan’s San Siro stadium home. The Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, another name for the stadium, is one of the biggest in Europe and has a capacity of 80,000 people. Particularly for supporters of AC Milan and Inter Milan, watching a football game in the San Siro is an exhilarating experience.
A visit to a San Siro game is a must-do activity if you are in Milan during the football season. The stadium is electrified by the fervent support of each team’s supporters. Arrive early to take in the match day excitement, and make sure to wear the colors of the team you are rooting for.
Even if you are not a football enthusiast, you can take a tour of the San Siro stadium. The stadium tours take you inside the stadium, to areas like pitch side, the pressroom, and the locker rooms. Even the tunnel that athletes use to enter the field of play is accessible.
If you would like to buy a ticket to an AC Milan or Inter Milan game, click here or on the Ticketmaster image below to select from one of our preferred suppliers.
Go to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
One of Milan’s most recognizable landmarks and a must-see for visitors to the city is Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. It is one of the world’s oldest retail centers and features some of the best examples of Italian architecture. It was finished in 1877. The main shopping arcade of the galleria is covered with a magnificent glass ceiling, which lets in natural light and creates a charming atmosphere for both locals and visitors.
Visitors can peruse upscale designer shops, cafes, and restaurants while taking in the ambience of this lovely setting. The mosaic of a bull on the floor of the galleria’s central dome, which is thought to bring luck to anyone who spins on it with their right heel, is one of the primary attractions.
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a must-see destination whether you are into shopping, history, or just want to see one of Milan’s most well known buildings. The galleria is a wonderful destination to spend a day or an evening due to its stunning architecture and vibrant ambiance.
Shopping and Fashion
Milan is a shopper’s paradise because it is the fashion center of Italy. Many of the best designers in the world have made Milan their home over the course of the city’s lengthy history in fashion. In the heart of Milan, in the Quadrilatero d’Oro, also known as the Golden Rectangle, are some of the most prestigious stores in the world, including Versace, Prada, and Armani. The most opulent and expensive shopping in Milan may be found in this region.
There are numerous marketplaces and department stores all across the city that sell a variety of things for individuals who wish to purchase at lower prices. The Fiera di Sinigaglia, which is open every Saturday and sells everything from clothing to antiques, is one well-known market.
Milan is renowned for its designer outlet shopping as well, and many of them are found on the outskirts of the city. With more than 300 retailers offering reduced designer apparel and accessories, the Serravalle Designer Outlet is one of the biggest and most well-known.
Overall, Milan’s culture heavily emphasizes shopping and fashion, which cater to all tastes and price ranges.
Bike around Milan
Discovering Milan’s dynamic metropolitan landscape, unearthing hidden gems, and delving into its lively culture can all be done on a bike. The following are some of the reasons that riding a bike in Milan is fun:
Dedicated Bike Lanes: Milan has invested heavily in the infrastructure for bicycling, constructing a vast network of bike lanes and trails. Bicycling in the city is safe and easy with these designated lanes.
Eco-Friendly: Biking is a sustainable and low-pollution form of transportation that helps Milan meet its environmental goals.
Historic Landmarks: Because Milan’s historic centre is primarily off-limits to automobiles, bicycles may easily visit famous sites like the Duomo, Sforza Castle, and the charming Brera neighborhood.
Local Flavour: Riding a bike lets you experience Milan like a native would. You can discover the genuine charm of the city by strolling through neighborhoods, going to local markets, and sipping espresso at charming cafes.
Bike-sharing Programmes: Milan provides visitors with the convenience of renting bikes for both short and long excursions through programmes like BikeMi.
Cycling in Milan, whether you’re a casual or competitive rider, promotes a healthy and sustainable form of transportation while providing a unique perspective of this vibrant Italian city.
Go to the La Scala Opera House
In the center of Milan, Italy, stands the renowned La Scala Opera House, usually referred to as Teatro alla Scala. It was founded in 1778 and is regarded as one of the world’s most renowned and significant cultural institutions.
Numerous iconic artists and the world premieres of some of the most well-known operas in history have both taken place at La Scala. Maria Callas, Luciano Pavarotti, and Plácido Domingo, among many others, have performed on its magnificent stage.
Visitors are in amazement and wonderment by the neoclassical architecture of the opera theatre, which represents the grandeur of Italian opera and features exquisite columns and ornate décor. The auditorium’s plush velvet seats and shimmering chandeliers give audience members a truly immersive experience.
La Scala continues to draw music fans and culture vultures from all over the world today, offering performances of both traditional operas and contemporary productions. It continues to be a benchmark for Italian cultural quality and legacy because to its long history and top-notch performances.
Visit the Pinacoteca di Brera
Milan is home to one of Italy’s most renowned art museums, the Pinacoteca di Brera. The museum was founded in 1776, and its main artistic interests include Italian Renaissance and Baroque art. It contains a sizable collection of works of art created by illustrious artists including Caravaggio, Raphael, Titian, and many others.
The artwork in the museum is split into two main categories, the first of which includes masterpieces from the 13th to the 18th century, including Caravaggio’s “Supper at Emmaus,” Giovanni Bellini’s “Pietà,” and Titian’s “The Assumption of the Virgin.” The Braidense National Library’s second area displays old manuscripts, printed volumes, and maps.
The Pinacoteca di Brera is well known for its exquisite architecture, which dates back to the 17th century, in addition to its magnificent collection. For art lovers, the museum’s beautiful halls and galleries offer a genuinely immersive experience thanks to its elaborate frescoes and decorative moldings.
Overall, the Pinacoteca di Brera is a must-visit location for everyone travelling to Milan. It provides a rare chance to see some of the most important artistic creations in Italian history and to understand the rich cultural legacy of the nation.
Festivals in Milan, Italy
The fashion and financial capital of Italy, Milan, is a city that enjoys a good party. Milan holds a wide variety of festivals all year long that display its global outlook and rich cultural history. The following are some of Milan’s notable festivals:
Milan Fashion Week: Milan is one of the fashion capitals of the world, and from February through March and from September through October it transforms into the center of the industry. Leading fashion houses and designers present their most recent collections, drawing key figures from the world of fashion as well as famous people.
Modern furniture and interior design ideas are displayed during the renowned Salone del Mobile furniture and design fair, which is held in April. For experts and enthusiasts of design, it is a must-see.
The Milan Film Festival is a world-renowned event that honors independent and up-and-coming directors. It shows a wide range of films and holds conferences and workshops.
Festival of Sant’Ambrogio: On December 7th, a number of events are held to honor Sant’Ambrogio, the patron saint of Milan, including religious processions, musical performances, and cultural activities.
MITO SettembreMusica: This event unites music and culture in September, with performances of classical, modern, and world music at various locations throughout the city.
Christmas in the Gallery (Natale in Galleria): One of the world’s oldest commercial malls, Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, is transformed into a mystical setting during the holiday season.
Through these festivals, Milan’s vibrant cultural scene highlighted, making it a year-round vacation spot for tourists interested in the arts, fashion, design, and entertainment.
