Milan Top Things To Do

Milan is a bustling metropolis in northern Italy and one of Europe’s most prominent fashion and design centers. It’s also a major financial and business hub, and its vibrant cultural life draws tourists from around the world. The city is known for its grand boulevards and impressive architecture, with iconic sights such as the Duomo, the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an elegant 19th century shopping arcade. With so much to see and do, visitors to Milan could easily spend days exploring the city’s many attractions. Here are some of the best things to do in Milan.

Explore the Duomo

The Duomo is one of Milan’s most iconic sights and it is a must-see for any traveler visiting the city. The Duomo di Milano is the fifth-largest cathedral in the world and it is an incredible example of Gothic architecture. The building was constructed in the 14th century and features intricate sculptures, intricate stained glass windows, and spectacular views from its terraces. Visitors can explore the interior of the building and its many chapels and tombs, or visit the nearby Duomo Museum. The museum has an impressive collection of artifacts from the cathedral’s history, including sculptures, frescoes, and liturgical objects.

Visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is an iconic shopping arcade located in the heart of Milan. Built in 1877, the gallery is considered one of the world’s oldest shopping malls. The arcade features a spectacular glass-domed roof, which floods the gallery with natural light, as well as a number of luxury stores and restaurants. Visitors can also admire the many works of art adorning the walls and ceilings, which include frescoes by famous Italian artists such as Giotto and Tiepolo. The gallery also has a number of historical monuments, including a statue of King Vittorio Emanuele II and a bronze bull, which is said to bring luck if you spin it three times with your right hand.

Explore the Navigli District

The Navigli District is one of Milan’s most charming neighborhoods. The area is known for its canals and its vibrant nightlife, with a number of lively bars, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can explore the canal-side streets on foot or by boat, admiring the colorful buildings and quaint bridges along the way. The area is also home to a number of interesting galleries and shops, as well as several popular nightlife spots such as jazz bars and nightclubs. The district also has a number of traditional restaurants serving up delicious Italian dishes.

Visit Castello Sforzesco

Castello Sforzesco is a 14th century castle that was once home to Milan’s powerful Sforza family. The castle is now home to a number of museums and galleries, including the Museum of Ancient Art and the Museum of Musical Instruments. Visitors can also explore the castle’s gardens, which feature a number of interesting sculptures and monuments. Inside the castle there is also a library containing over 1 million books, as well as a number of historic artifacts from the Sforza family’s reign.

Go Shopping on Via Montenapoleone

Via Montenapoleone is one of Milan’s most famous shopping streets and it is home to a number of designer boutiques and luxury stores. Visitors can wander through the cobblestone streets looking at window displays or head inside to browse designer labels such as Armani, Prada, Versace, and Gucci. Many of the stores offer discounts during certain times of year, making it a great place to find a bargain.

Experience La Scala Opera House

La Scala Opera House is one of the world’s most prestigious opera houses and it is an important part of Milan’s cultural heritage. Visitors can take in a performance at the opera house or simply admire its opulent interior, which includes an impressive chandelier and a stunning ceiling fresco by Rembrandt. The opera house has been entertaining audiences since 1778 and it continues to host some of Italy’s most popular operas, ballets, and concerts.

Visit Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper

Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece ‘The Last Supper’ is one of Milan’s most famous attractions and it attracts visitors from all over the world. The painting was commissioned in 1495 by Ludovico Sforza and it depicts Jesus’ last meal with his disciples. The painting has experienced extensive damage over time due to poor conservation practices, but it still manages to captivate visitors with its intense emotion and powerful composition.

Enjoy Local Cuisine

Milan is renowned for its delicious food and there are plenty of opportunities for visitors to enjoy local cuisine. The city is known for its traditional dishes such as risotto alla milanese, cotoletta alla milanese (breaded veal cutlet), ossobuco (braised veal shank) and panettone (sweet bread cake). Visitors can also sample some of Milan’s famous gelato (ice cream) or enjoy an espresso at one of the city’s many cafes.

Take a Food Tour

If you want to experience Milan’s culinary scene in more detail then why not take a food tour? A food tour is an excellent way to learn more about local cuisine as well as trying out some delicious dishes. On a food tour you will visit some of Milan’s best restaurants, markets, and cafes to sample local delicacies such as tramezzini (sandwiches), risotto alla milanese, panettone, gelato, espresso, and more. Tours usually last around 3 hours and they are led by knowledgeable guides who can answer any questions you may have about Italian cuisine. Book a Food Tour in Milan here.

Take a Sightseeing Tour

Milan has so much to see that it can be hard to know where to start. A sightseeing tour is an excellent way to discover some of the city’s best attractions in just a few hours. On a sightseeing tour you will see iconic sights such as the Duomo di Milano, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Castello Sforzesco, La Scala Opera House, and more. Tours usually visit several landmarks with stops for photo opportunities along the way. Some tours also include visits to local markets or even a cooking class! Book a Sightseeing Tour in Milan here.

Go on an Art Tour

Milan has long been an important center for art and culture and there are numerous galleries and museums to explore in the city. Art tours are an excellent way to get an introduction to Milan’s art scene as they take you to some of the city’s most important galleries such as Pinacoteca di Brera and Gallerie d’Italia. You will learn about the history of art in Milan as well admired paintings by renowned Italian artists such as Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio and more. Book an Art Tour in Milan here.

Milan offers something for everyone – whether you’re an art enthusiast or a fashionista you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. From exploring the Duomo and admiring Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper to enjoying delicious Italian cuisine or browsing designer stores on Via Montenapoleone – there are endless things to do in Milan that will make your trip unforgettable!