In this video, we'll show you the top 10 things to do in Milan.
The suggestions are based on our many trips to this beautiful city.
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Here are our top 10 picks:
Number 10: Duomo di Milano
Piazza Duomo is the main square in the heart of Milan known for its stunning cathedral,
the Duomo di Milano. The Milan Cathedral is a massive Gothic cathedral that was completed in 1965
after several centuries of construction. The cathedral features numerous spires and statues
and an impressive interior filled with artwork and intricate details. With over 3,400 statues,
135 gargoyles, and 700 figures, it is believed to be the church with the most statues of any other building in the World.
Hidden from view, the bells of the Duomo di Milano
are intentionally reserved to chime for rare occasions to preserve the church's structural integrity.
One of the highlights of visiting the Duomo is the opportunity to explore its rooftop terrace.
From there, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city
and an up-close look at the architectural details and sculptures of the cathedral.
If you are visiting Piazza Duomo, don’t skip the nearby attractions, like Palazzo Reale di Milano,
now a museum, which served as the official residence of Milanese rulers,
the picturesque medieval Piazza Mercanti surrounded by many beautiful buildings,
or the renowned Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade which we’ll cover in the next chapter.
Number 9: Fashion & Shopping
Milan is known as one of the world's fashion capitals and is home to many
high-end luxury fashion brands, designer boutiques, and trendy shopping districts.
The city's fashion scene is centered around the Quadrilatero della Moda, a fashionable district in the city center
that features some of the World's most renowned fashion designers and luxury brands.
Milan is also famous for its many high-end shopping malls, including Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II,
one of the World's oldest and most iconic shopping centers. The Galleria,
named after the first king of Italy, was built in 1877 and features a stunning glass and iron roof,
a beautiful mosaic floor, and restaurants and elegant shops, home to some of the World's most
prestigious fashion and jewelry brands, including Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Cartier.
If you love fashion, don’t skip CityLife Milan shopping district, Corso Como, a fashionable
pedestrian street, and Corso Buenos Aires. Whether you're in the market for designer clothing,
luxury accessories, or unique souvenirs, the city offers something for every type of shopper.
Number 8: The Canals of Milan
Milan has a historic network of canals that date back to the Middle Ages,
initially used to transport goods and materials around the city
which played an essential role in the city’s economic and cultural development.
As the city grew and modern transportation methods were introduced, the canals became
less important for commercial purposes. In the early 20th century, many canals were filled in
or covered over, and some were even used as open sewers. There has been interest in
reviving the canals, with plans to restore and redevelop some of the neglected areas.
Today, the canals are mainly used for tourism and recreation, with many visitors to the city
enjoying boat tours or leisure walks along the canal banks. Some of the most famous canals in Milan
include the Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese. The canals offer picturesque views of the city
and are surrounded by some of Milan's most historic and beautiful architecture.
The bars and restaurants alongside the canal offer a wide variety of food and drink options.
The area is known for its aperitivo culture, especially after 5 pm and during the weekends.
And many have outdoor seating areas that overlook the canal.
Don’t skip Vicolo Lavandai, translating to Alley of the Washers, itt was once a gathering place
for washerwomen who used to wash clothes in the nearby canal or Darsena artificial water basin,
which was designed for docking boats that sailed the Navigli di Milano.
Number 7: Food and Drinks
Milan is renowned for its rich culinary scene, offering a delightful array of food experiences.
From traditional Milanese dishes like risotto alla Milanese, delicious panettone, and gorgonzola cheese
to a wide variety of pasta, pizza, gelato, and tasty pastries, Milan's food scene is a fusion
of Italian flavors and international influences, ensuring a gastronomic adventure for every palate.
Visit Eataly Milano – a vibrant and immersive food emporium that celebrates Italian gastronomy
in all its glory, featuring a vast selection of high-quality local and regional products
diverse dining options, and even cooking classes.
Of course, there are many bars and restaurants all over Milan where you can enjoy
“aperitivo” or try a delicious meal, like the previously mentioned Navigli neighborhood.
And don’t skip a Starbucks Reserve Roastery where traditional Italian
espresso craftsmanship meets the modern Starbucks experience, offering a sensory
journey through exquisite beverages, delicious desserts, and the theater of coffee roasting.
Number 6: Vintage Trams
The trams of Milan form an integral part of the city's transportation network,
gracefully gliding through its streets and showcasing a harmonious blend of vintage charm
and efficient urban mobility. Indulge in an unforgettable experience by embarking on a journey
aboard these delightful and nostalgic trams. Did you know that the first trams in Milan
were introduced in 1876 and were pulled by horses? Electric trams were introduced later,
in the early 20th century. The vintage trams that are still in operation today
date back to the 1920s and 1930s and have been lovingly restored to their former glory.
The tram network has over 17 lines and runs on several different lines throughout the city,
including the popular tourist route that takes you to places such as the Duomo,
the Castello Sforzesco, and the Navigli district. Milan boasts a comprehensive transportation system
that efficiently connects the city, offering a range of options, including metro lines, buses,
and trains, allowing residents and visitors to navigate the city easily and conveniently.
Number 5: Fondazione Prada
Fondazione Prada is an art and cultural institution established by the fashion designer
Miuccia Prada and her husband in 1993. The foundation promotes contemporary art,
architecture, cinema, and philosophy through various exhibitions, projects, and events.
The main venue of the Fondazione Prada is located in a former gin distillery known as the Prada Foundation complex.
The complex was refurbished and expanded by a renowned Dutch architect.
It comprises several buildings and spaces, each serving different purposes and showcasing
various contemporary art and cultural aspects. Explore a variety of spaces that host rotating
exhibitions featuring works by established and emerging artists from around the World.
There are many other art centers, cultural institutions,
and museums in Milan worth exploring, such as Triennale di Milano showcases innovative and cutting-edge art,
design, and architecture through its diverse exhibitions and programs.
And many others, like Pirelli HangarBicocca, and Pinacoteca di Brera.
Number 4: Porta Nuova
Named after the Napoleonic gate built in 1810, Porta Nuova stands as a testament to Milan's
urban transformation efforts. Porta Nuova Milan is a modern and vibrant district characterized
by its contemporary architecture, innovative urban planning, and a blend of residential,
commercial, and cultural spaces and home to three Fortune 500 companies, including Pirelli.
Admire modern-style buildings from Piazza Gae Aulenti or one of the most famous ones
in the area, Bosco Verticale. This Vertical Forest is an architectural marvel
comprising two residential towers covered in greenery. It showcases an innovative approach to
sustainable living and urban green spaces. Walk around the beautiful Biblioteca degli Alberi
landscaped parks and gardens with many walking paths, benches, and seasonal blooms.
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Number 3: National Museum of Science and Technology
Museo Nazionale della Scienza e della Tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci
situated in a former monestery is an extraordinary institution celebrating science and technology's wonders.
The museum is dedicated to the life, works, and inventions of the iconic
Italian polymath Leonardo da Vinci featuring a vast collection of his sketches, models,
and reconstructions, providing insight into his groundbreaking ideas and innovations.
The museum boasts an extensive range of exhibits that cover various scientific and technological disciplines.
Visitors can explore areas such as aerospace, energy, communication, materials, and much more.
The museum also features an extensive collection related to transport
and communication devices showcasing the evolution of transportation and communication technologies
over time. One of the museum's main features is the Vega rocket and submarine Toti
– a part of the Naval transport exhibition. It was the first submarine built in Italy after World War II.
Its job was to patrol the waters of the Mediterranean and detect Soviet submarines.
BTW, if you are interested in Leonardo da Vinci’s work, don’t skip the Leonardo3 Museum located in Galleria.
The museum offers a comprehensive and immersive exploration of Leonardo da Vinci's
genius and inventions through interactive exhibits, models, and multimedia displays.
Or visit one of da Vinci’s most famous works,
the Last Supper located in Santa Maria delle Grazie church.
Number 2: Sempione Park
Parco Sempione is a large public park created in the late 19th century.
It is one of Milan's largest parks and a popular destination for tourists and locals.
The park features several walking and cycling paths and numerous benches
and picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
In addition to its natural beauty, Sempione Park is home to several notable monuments and
buildings, including the Arco della Pace (Arch of Peace), built in the early 19th century
and Branca Tower (Torre Branca), a panoramic tower built in 1933.
Of course, Milan offers many other beautiful parks and gardens, such as Giardini Indro Montanelli.
Number 1: Castello Sforzesco
Castello Sforzesco also called Sforza Castle is a historic castle located in the city center
featuring several courtyards and gardens. The castle was originally built in the 15th century
as a fortress, but it was transformed into a residence of the Duke of Milan,
Francesco Sforza. The castle was later renovated and expanded by other rulers of the city.
During the French occupation of Milan in the late 18th century,
the castle was used as a barracks and prison, and many of its treasures were looted or destroyed.
Today, the castle houses several museums and art collections,
including Pinacoteca Castello Sforzesco and the Museum of Ancient Art.
The castle is home to a vast collection of art and artifacts,
including works by Italian Renaissance masters like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael.
We wish you an amazing trip to Milan.