Must Visit Places in Milan

Milan is one of Italy’s most famous cities and the capital of the Lombardy region. With a population of over 1.3 million, it is the second largest city in the country and a major transport hub. It is well known for its fashion, art, culture and cuisine. The city has a long and interesting history that dates back to the 5th century BC when it was founded by the Celts.

Over the centuries Milan has grown in size and influence and was once home to the powerful Duchy of Milan. During the Renaissance period, it was one of Italy’s wealthiest cities and a major centre for art and culture. It also became one of the most important cities in the world during the Industrial Revolution. Today, Milan is a modern metropolis with a thriving business district and a bustling nightlife. It is home to many famous landmarks, museums and attractions, making it a popular destination for tourists.

History of Milan

Milan’s history dates back to the 5th century BC when it was founded by the Celts. The city was known as Mediolanum and was an important Roman settlement. During the Middle Ages, it became a powerful city-state ruled by the Visconti family. In 1447, Francesco Sforza, the Duke of Milan, conquered the city and made it the capital of his duchy. This period saw a great deal of development in the city and it became one of Italy’s wealthiest cities during the Renaissance period.

In the 16th century, Milan was ruled by the Spanish Empire and later by Austria. In 1859, it became part of Italy after being annexed by Napoleon III. During World War II, it was heavily bombed by Allied forces but quickly recovered after the war ended. Today, Milan is one of Italy’s most prosperous cities and is home to many major businesses, banks and fashion houses.

What to See in Milan

Milan is renowned for its art and culture and there are plenty of must-visit attractions to explore while you’re in town. Here are some of the top places to visit:

Duomo di Milano

The Duomo di Milano is an impressive Gothic cathedral that dominates the city skyline. It is one of Italy’s largest churches and took over six centuries to complete. The interior is adorned with marble sculptures and ornate frescoes depicting religious scenes. The roof is made up of over two thousand statues and there are spectacular views from the top.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of Milan’s most famous landmarks. It is an impressive four-story shopping mall located in the city center that was built in the 19th century. It is home to many luxurious stores, cafes and restaurants where you can find designer clothes and other items. The interior is made up of stunning mosaics and there are also many works of art on display throughout the mall.

Sforzesco Castle

The Sforzesco Castle is a 15th-century fortification located in central Milan. It was built by Francesco Sforza, the Duke of Milan, in 1450 as a defensive structure against foreign invaders. Today, it houses several museums, including the Museo Civico, where you can learn about Milan’s history. The castle grounds are also home to beautiful gardens where you can relax and enjoy views of the city skyline.

Santa Maria delle Grazie

Santa Maria delle Grazie is a 15th-century church located in Milan’s city center. It is famous for its Last Supper mural by Leonardo da Vinci, which depicts Jesus and his disciples at the Last Supper. The painting has been carefully preserved over the centuries and visitors can view it from a distance in an adjacent refectory.

Brera District

The Brera District is one of Milan’s most vibrant neighborhoods with its winding cobblestone streets and lively atmosphere. It is home to many galleries, cafes and shops where you can find unique items from local artisans. There are also plenty of bars and restaurants where you can sample some delicious local delicacies.

What to Do in Milan

Milan has plenty of activities to suit all tastes. Here are some of the top things to do while you’re in town:

Visit La Scala Opera House

La Scala Opera House is one of the most famous theaters in the world and an essential stop on any visit to Milan. It has been home to some of Italy’s greatest performances since its opening in 1778 and its many productions continue to draw visitors from around the globe each year. You can attend one of its spectacular shows or take a guided tour of its galleries and backstage areas to learn more about its history and architecture.

Take a Walking Tour

Milan offers plenty of walking tours that take you around the city’s most famous landmarks and attractions. These tours provide a great way to explore the city at your own pace while learning about its history and culture from knowledgeable guides. You can choose from a variety of tours such as food tours, night tours or historical tours that delve into Milan’s past.

Shop at Designer Boutiques

Milan is renowned for its fashion industry and there are plenty of designer boutiques where you can find some great items from top brands such as Prada, Gucci or Versace. The city also offers many markets where you can find unique items from local artisans or sample some delicious local delicacies.

Visit Piazza del Duomo

Piazza del Duomo is one of Milan’s most popular squares located near the Duomo di Milano cathedral. It is home to many restaurants, cafes and bars where you can enjoy views of the cathedral while sipping on an espresso or enjoying some local food. The square also hosts various events throughout the year such as concerts or plays so there’s always something going on here.

Tours in Milan

Tours are a great way to get an authentic experience when visiting a new city like Milan. Here are two popular tours that you can book while in town:

Milan Food Tour

Experience traditional Italian cuisine on this delicious food tour through Milan’s bustling streets. You’ll visit some of the city’s top restaurants, cafes and markets to sample local delicacies such as pizza, pasta or gelato. Your guide will also teach you about local culture and ingredients so you can appreciate your food even more. To book this tour click here.

Milan Nightlife Tour

Explore Milan’s vibrant nightlife on this fun tour of the city’s top bars, clubs and pubs. Your guide will take you to all the best spots for drinks, music, dancing and socializing with locals. You’ll also get tips on how to dress for nights out in Italy so you can blend right in with the locals. To book this tour click here.

Conclusion

Milan has something for everyone—from art lovers to fashionistas—and there are plenty of must-visit attractions throughout this vibrant city that should not be missed! From exploring La Scala Opera House or taking a walking tour to shopping at designer boutiques or visiting Piazza del Duomo, there is plenty to keep you busy during your visit to Milan! Make sure to also book one of the popular tours available that will give you an even more immersive experience!