Milan Attractions: A Tourist Guide

Milan is an iconic Italian city full of history, culture, art and style. Located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, Milan is the second-largest city in the country after Rome, and is an important economic and cultural hub. The city has a long and storied history, dating back to its founding as a colony of the Roman Empire in 222 BC. Over the centuries, it has been a center of power for the Roman Empire, the Kingdom of Italy, the Republic of Venice and the Holy Roman Empire. Today, Milan is a major international destination for its many attractions, including its renowned fashion and design industry, its extensive art collections, its iconic architecture, and its renowned culinary scene.

History of Milan

The history of Milan dates back millennia. The city was founded as a Roman colony in 222 BC, and over the centuries it has been a major center of political and economic power. In the Middle Ages, Milan was a powerful city-state in its own right, serving as the capital of the Duchy of Milan. In 1450, the city became a major center of the Renaissance, and it was here that Leonardo da Vinci painted his masterpiece The Last Supper. The city was also a major center of Italian Baroque during the 17th century, and it was here that Antonio Vivaldi composed his famous works. In 1796, Milan was annexed by Napoleon and remained part of the French Empire until 1815. During the 19th century, Milan became part of the Italian state, and it was during this period that many of the city’s iconic buildings were constructed, including the famous Duomo di Milano and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

Things to Do in Milan

Milan is an international tourist destination for its many attractions. From its renowned fashion and design industry to its iconic architecture and art collections, there is something for everyone in Milan. Here are some of the most popular attractions in the city:

Duomo di Milano

The Duomo di Milano is perhaps the most iconic symbol of the city. This stunning Gothic cathedral dates back to 1386 and is one of the largest churches in the world. The interior is filled with stunning frescoes, paintings and sculptures by some of Italy’s greatest artists. The Duomo di Milano is a must-visit for anyone visiting Milan.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a stunning 19th century shopping arcade located in the center of Milan. This magnificent building is filled with designer stores, chic cafes and some of Milan’s most exclusive restaurants. It’s also home to some of Milan’s most iconic works of art, including Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper painting.

Pinacoteca di Brera

The Pinacoteca di Brera is one of Italy’s most important art galleries. It houses over 600 works by some of Italy’s greatest painters and sculptors, including Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio and Raphael. This impressive collection also includes works by international masters such as Rembrandt and Rubens.

Navigli Canals

The Navigli canals are one of Milan’s most beloved attractions. These canals were built during the Middle Ages as part of a complex waterway system that connected Milan to other parts of Lombardy and beyond. Today, these canals are lined with charming cafes and restaurants, making them perfect for a leisurely stroll or a romantic dinner.

Sforza Castle

The Sforza Castle is a 15th century fortress located in the heart of Milan. This impressive castle was built by the Sforza family in 1450 and served as their primary residence until they were overthrown in 1535. Today, it houses several museums and galleries, including the Museum of Ancient Art and the Museum of Musical Instruments.

Popular Tours in Milan

In addition to exploring Milan’s many attractions independently, there are also several guided tours available for visitors who want to make the most out of their visit. Here are two popular tours in Milan that you can experience:

Milan Day Tour with Private Guide

For those looking to get an in-depth understanding of Milan’s history and culture, this 6-hour tour with a private guide is the perfect option. This tour features some of Milan’s most iconic landmarks such as the Duomo di Milano, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and Pinacoteca di Brera. The tour also takes you through some of Milan’s lesser-known neighborhoods such as Brera and Navigli, where you can explore hidden gems such as local markets and artisan workshops. Along the way, your guide will provide an informative commentary about Milan’s history, art and architecture. At the end of the tour, you will have gained an appreciation for why Milan is one of Italy’s most beloved cities. You can book this tour here.

Milan Food Tour

For food lovers looking to get a taste of traditional Italian cuisine, this 3-hour food tour is an absolute must-do. This tour takes you through some of Milan’s most beloved culinary hotspots including local markets and trattorie (traditional Italian eateries). You will get to sample some of Milan’s most famous specialties such as Risotto alla Milanese (saffron risotto), Ossobuco (braised veal shank) and Panettone (traditional Christmas cake). Your guide will provide an informative commentary about each dish and explain how they are prepared. At the end of the tour, you will have gained an understanding of Milan’s rich culinary heritage. You can book this tour here.

Conclusion

From its iconic architecture to its renowned fashion industry and its tasty cuisine, there is something for everyone in Milan. Whether you’re looking for a day touring its many attractions or an evening sampling its classic dishes, Milan has something for everyone. With its long history and vibrant culture, it’s easy to see why Milan is one of Italy’s most beloved cities.