Milan is the center of Italian fashion, art, and business. A buzzing cosmopolitan hub, this city is an eclectic blend of modern skyscrapers and historical architecture. You’ll find everything from designer boutiques in the Quadrilatero d’Oro to the iconic Cathedral of Milan, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with intricate facades and spires that seem to touch the sky. You’ll also find Da Vinci’s genius at the Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to “The Last Supper,” one of the most famous artworks in the world.

For a taste of Milanese cuisine, visit the Brera District, a quaint neighborhood dotted with cozy trattorias where the aroma of freshly made pasta and risotto fills the air. The energetic vibe of this city is apparent, from the chic cafes in the Navigli District to La Scala, one of the world’s most renowned opera houses. Milan is an endless adventure of culture, cuisine, and fashion.

MILAN TRAVEL GUIDE

Top Attractions

Duomo di Milano

The Duomo is a grand cathedral and the soul of Milan. Its construction took nearly six centuries, making it a living testament to the city’s history and artistic evolution. One of the largest cathedrals in the world, the Duomo features an intricate façade adorned with more than 3,000 statues and numerous spires reaching for the heavens.

The Duomo’s rooftop, accessible by stairs or elevator, offers a great view of Milan, and on a clear day, you can even see the Alps in the distance. The unique experience is like walking through a forest of Gothic spires, each more elaborate than the next.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Just steps from the Duomo is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Designed by Giuseppe Mengoni and opened in 1867, this opulent shopping center exudes elegance. With its glass-vaulted ceilings, intricate frescoes, and mosaic-tiled floors, the Galleria is an architectural masterpiece that doubles as a shopper’s paradise. One of the most captivating features is the central octagonal dome, soaring high and showering the interior in natural light.

Sforza Castle

Sforza Castle offers a captivating journey through various epochs of Milanese and Italian history. Initially built as a fortress in the 14th century, it underwent numerous transformations under the ruling Sforza dynasty, turning it from a military fortress to a lavish residence. Today it’s a cultural hub featuring multiple museums and art collections.

The Pinacoteca del Castello Sforzesco houses an extensive collection of Italian art including masterpieces by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. Michelangelo’s unfinished sculpture, Pietà Rondanini is on display, and lush castle gardens are adjacent to the fortress.

Related:
Barcelona Travel Guide: Top 23 Things to See in the Extraordinary City 
London Travel Guide: 20 Top Attractions in this Majestic City 

Santa Maria delle Grazie

Santa Maria delle Grazie is a church and Dominican convent that is home to Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic mural, “The Last Supper.” Commissioned as part of a renovation project for the convent, this work of art has mesmerized audiences for over five centuries.

From the moment you step into the refectory where the mural is located, you’ll feel the gravity of Da Vinci’s genius. The composition, the colors, and the emotional depth.

Note!! Tickets for “The Last Supper” are limited and often sold out months in advance. Booking ahead is a must if you don’t want to miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

La Scala

Teatro alla Scala is a symbol of Milan’s rich musical tradition. Opened in 1778, this prestigious opera house has seen performances by some of the world’s greatest artists like Maria Callas, Luciano Pavarotti, and Giuseppe Verdi, among many others.

You can attend a live performance or take a guided tour where you’ll explore the theater, the grand foyer, and the La Scala Museum, which hosts an impressive collection of costumes, instruments, and other opera memorabilia.

Quadrilatero d’Oro

Quadrilatero d’Oro, or the “Golden Rectangle,” is a district with narrow streets like Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga, lined with international fashion houses. Gucci, Prada, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana—you name it, they’re all here.

Even if you’re not looking to splurge, a stroll around Quadrilatero d’Oro is a must. The window displays are both creative and glamorous.

Brera District

The Brera District, filled with cobblestone streets lined with intimate cafes, artisan shops, and lush green balconies, is often described as the artistic heart of Milan. It is a vibrant hub for creatives, intellectuals, and anyone seeking a cozy, bohemian atmosphere. You’ll find old-fashioned ateliers and contemporary art galleries with a blend of Milanese tradition and modern sophistication.

The Brera Art Gallery houses one of Italy’s most important art collections, featuring Italian Renaissance masters like Raphael, Caravaggio, and Bellini. The area’s alfresco dining spots are ideal for savoring Milanese classics like Osso Buco or Risotto alla Milanese.

Navigli District

Centered around a network of canals designed in part by Leonardo da Vinci, the Navigli district exudes a unique charm that’s part vintage and part hipster. You can explore vintage markets filled with retro furniture, second-hand clothes, and quirky knick-knacks, as well as bars and cafes that each offer their own spin on the classic Italian aperitivo.

Parco Sempione

Adjacent to the Sforza Castle, this sprawling park is filled with trees, ponds, sculptures and monuments and is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic or for jogging or paddle boating. 

Where To Stay

Navigli District

Duomo & City Center

If you’re all about convenience and want to be in the middle of Milan’s historic landmarks and shopping districts, stay in the city center. With the Duomo di Milano and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II nearby, this area offers prime accessibility for sightseeing. It is, of course, a pricier area with luxury hotels.

Brera District

If you’re looking for a blend of art, history, and bohemian vibes, Brera is a good choice. Cobblestone streets, quaint boutiques, and alfresco dining options make this area very charming. You’ll find a variety of boutique hotels and guesthouses in this area.

Navigli District

Navigli is a more laid-back area with its hip bars, vintage shops, and boho atmosphere. Accommodation options range from trendy hostels to charming B&Bs.

Porta Venezia

Porta Venezia is Milan’s cosmopolitan hub. It’s a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, making it a great area for foodies. It’s also known for its beautiful public gardens and Liberty architecture. Accommodation is diverse, with a mix of hotels, guesthouses, and apartment options. It’s also LGBTQ+ friendly, offering a diverse and inclusive vibe.

San Siro & Western Milan

If you’re in town for a sports event at San Siro Stadium, or perhaps a big concert, staying in western Milan is practical. While not as bustling as the city center, it offers excellent public transport connections. You’ll find a range of accommodations from budget-friendly hotels to upscale resorts.

Quadrilatero d’Oro (Fashion District)

If you’re visiting to explore the fashion scene, Quadrilatero d’Oro is the epitome of luxury and haute couture. Surrounded by elite boutiques like Gucci, Prada, and Versace, this area caters to travelers for whom style is paramount. Expect luxurious hotels with an equally high-end price tag.

Related Posts:
Where to Stay on Your Next Vacation: Hotel vs Apartment
13 Creative Tips for Packing Light for Travel
How to Pack a Travel Backpack for a 2-Week Vacation

Local Cuisine

Papa Francesco Restaurant

The culinary scene in Milan is as rich and diverse as its fashion and art. From hearty classics to scrumptious street eats, here are some of the best foods you must savor in Milan.

Risotto alla Milanese

You can’t miss trying this creamy, saffron-infused risotto. It’s a comfort food often served as a primo (first course) in traditional Italian meals.

Osso Buco

Osso Buco is a Milanese specialty that consists of a braised veal shank cooked in a broth of vegetables, white wine, and broth that falls right off the bone.

Cotoletta alla Milanese

Think of it as Italy’s version of the schnitzel. This breaded veal cutlet is fried to crispy perfection yet remains juicy and tender on the inside. It’s often served with a lemon wedge and a simple side of potatoes or salad.

Panettone

Even if you’re not visiting during Christmas, keep an eye out for Panettone, a sweet bread loaf adorned with candied fruits and raisins. It’s a holiday treat and a culinary symbol of Milan.

Cassoeula

This hearty pork and cabbage stew is especially popular in the winter months. Its homey flavors and rustic origins is a charming contrast to Milan’s more upscale experiences.

Aperitivo

While not a dish per se, the Milanese aperitivo is a culinary ritual you can’t skip. Think of it as happy hour with a lavish Italian twist. Order a cocktail like a Negroni or Aperol Spritz, and you’ll often get access to an extensive buffet of appetizers.

Gelato

It’s not unique to Milan, but the city offers some wonderful artisan gelaterias. A scoop of hazelnut or stracciatella gelato is the perfect way to end your culinary explorations and cool down after a day of sightseeing.

Transportation

Milano Centrale Train Station

Metro

Milan’s metro system is one of the most efficient in Europe. With multiple lines connecting key attractions like the Duomo and Sforza Castle, it’s often the quickest way to traverse the city. Plus, it’s an affordable option, especially if you grab a day or multi-day pass.

Tram

For a bit of nostalgia and a leisurely ride, hop on one of Milan’s iconic trams. Some routes use vintage cars, which elevate the charm. The trams are a fantastic way to sightsee and get a sense of the city’s layout.

Buses

While not as picturesque as the trams, buses are plentiful and can take you to areas of Milan not covered by the metro or trams. They’re particularly useful for reaching more peripheral attractions or neighborhoods.

Taxis & Rideshares

If you’re loaded down with shopping bags or are short on time, taxis or rideshares like Uber or Lyft offer a convenient but pricier option. Just keep in mind that Milan’s traffic can be unpredictable.

Biking

Milan has embraced the cycling trend with bike-sharing services and designated lanes. If you want to see Milan at a slower pace and enjoy some exercise, cycling is a fantastic option.

Walking

Milan’s city center is fairly compact, making it easy to explore on foot. Walking allows you to truly appreciate the details of the city, from the architecture to the hidden boutiques.

Car Rentals

Renting a car is generally not recommended unless you plan to explore the outskirts or go on multiple day trips. Milan’s traffic and limited parking can be a headache, not to mention the restricted “ZTL” zones that could result in fines.

Currency

The national currency in Italy is the Euro (€).  Click here to get the daily conversion.