The Ultimate Explorer’s Guide to a Well-Rounded Milan Trip
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Visiting Italy for the first time and planning a trip to Milan can feel overwhelming. As the country’s second-largest city, Milan offers so many experiences that it’s hard to know where to start! From world-famous fashion shows to incredible food and stunning architecture, the options are endless for a few days’ trip. Sound familiar? Relate? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered!
Let me take you through some of the best experiences in Milan to help you plan an unforgettable trip. Let’s go!
The Ultimate Destination
If there’s one reason Milan deserves a spot on your Northern Italy itinerary, it’s the stunning Milan Cathedral. No photo can truly capture its magnificence—but they’ll certainly tempt you to see it for yourself.
Most Notable Historic Sites
While Milan may not have as many historical landmarks as Rome, it boasts remarkable structures that reflect its rich past. The Duomo di Milano, Castello Sforzesco, and Porta Sempione stand as enduring symbols of the city’s heritage—and in my opinion, they offer such an incredible experience that they should be at the top of any visitor’s list.
If you find yourself in Cathedral Square (Piazza del Duomo) and head northwest for about a kilometer (0.6 miles), you’ll first encounter the striking Castello Sforzesco, followed by the grand Porta Sempione.
Castello Sforzesco
It is a historic military fortress that now houses museums and galleries filled with artifacts and masterpieces. Some of the most notable exhibits feature works by legendary Italian figures like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
Castello Sforzesco, a massive fortress in Milan, Italy, was built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, the Duke of Milan at the time. Over the years, it has been renovated and changed many times. Notably, by the 16th and 17th centuries, it had grown into one of the largest citadels in Europe.
Visiting Castello Sforzesco is like stepping back in time, much like a trip to the Milan Cathedral. The fortress, with its striking red-brick walls and impressive structures, offers a stunning medieval experience. The courtyard, decorated with colorful swallow statues, adds a fun touch to the historical setting. If you’re into architecture, Castello Sforzesco is sure to impress.
Its design is a great mix of Renaissance and Gothic styles, with a focus on defensive engineering. It’s also worth noting that famous engineers and architects, including Leonardo da Vinci, helped shape its design.
Today, Castello Sforzesco is a cultural hub, home to several city museums and art collections. It features a range of galleries showcasing everything from musical instruments and furniture to artwork. Two important museums are the Archaeological Museum and the Egyptian Museum, both offering fascinating glimpses into ancient civilizations.
The castle also features masterpieces by famous artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. One of the highlights is Michelangelo’s Pietà Rondanini, located in the western part of the Ducal Court. Michelangelo worked on this piece for eight years until his death, and it shows his later style, influenced by mystical Neoplatonism.
For more information, kindly check the official website of Castello Sforzesco.
Sempione Park
This park is a historic green space behind Castello Sforzesco, home to the stunning Porta Sempione and Torre Branca. Visit to admire impressive architecture, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and take in amazing views from the tower.
Behind Castello Sforzesco is the large Sempione Park, a peaceful green space right in the middle of Milan. Originally a private park for the Visconti dukes, it later became property of the Sforza family, who built the castle. Today, the park is home to cultural institutions and offers activities for people of all ages and interests.
With its beautifully maintained gardens, meadows, and water features, it provides a great view of the Arco della Pace and Castello Sforzesco. However, it offers more than just a calm stroll through nature.
Inside the park stands Torre Branca, a 108-meter tower that’s one of the tallest in Milan. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can ride the elevator to the top for amazing views of the city and the Lombardy countryside. On a clear day, you might even see the Alps, the Apennines, and part of the Po Valley.
Kindly check Torre Branca official website for visitor’s info.
Right across Sempione Park and facing Castello Sforzesco, you’ll find Porta Sempione. Also called the “Simplon Gate,” this iconic city gate in Milan features the impressive Arco della Pace, or “Arch of Peace.”
The gate was built in the 19th century, and now a symbol of Milan’s history, tied to key moments like:
- On June 8, 1859, just days after the Battle of Magenta, Napoleon III and Italy’s Victor Emmanuel II entered Milan in triumph through the gate.
- On March 22, 1848, after losing the Five Days of Milan rebellion, the Austrian army led by Marshal Josef Radetzky fled the city through Porta Giovia.
Standing 25 meters tall and 24 meters wide, Porta Sempione is an impressive example of Neoclassical architecture in Milan, which features bas-reliefs, statues, and Corinthian columns.
The artwork honors important moments in Italy and Europe’s history, such as the “Foundation of the Kingdom of Lombardy-Venetia” by Pompeo Marchesi and the “Institution of the Iron Crown” by Giovanni Battista Perabò. You’ll also spot depictions of events like the Congress of Prague and the Battle of Leipzig.
Architectural Attractions
I’m not really into Modern architecture, but it definitely adds something interesting to Milan. Walking through the streets and seeing how the buildings have changed over time, it almost feels like you’re traveling through different eras of the city’s history. Besides Milan Cathedral and Castello Sforzesco, there are five other landmarks I think you’d really enjoy seeing.
Just off Via Federico Confalonieri in Milan, there’s this landmark called Casa della Memoria that’ll grab you with its story before you even step inside.
Imagine walking up to this building, its facade a canvas of colored bricks, almost singing the history of Milan. You’ve got nineteen faces looking back at you – not famous ones, but the everyday heroes of this city. And then, there are these eight scenes worked into the bricks, telling tales of dark times, like the deportations and the Piazza Fontana bombing, moments that shaped this place.
Inside, a yellow spiral staircase winds up, like it’s leading you through the layers of time. It’s a monument to memory, to the fight for freedom and democracy. If you’re ever wandering through Milan, make sure you don’t miss this — it is right there for you to see and feel.
Casa della Memoria is located near the Isola neighborhood in Milan, close to Piazza Gae Aulenti and the Porta Nuova district.
Wandering through Milan, Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio is another place you cannot simply miss.
This basilica, named after its founder, Saint Ambrose, is one of Milan’s oldest churches, dating back to the 4th century. You’re greeted by an unusual sight: two towers of different heights and an enormous atrium, almost as big as the church itself.
The architecture here is a throwback to Romanesque style, but with a Lombard twist. Inside, it’s like stepping into another century, with the golden altar gleaming under the light, and the crypt below where you can see the remains of Saint Ambrose himself, alongside saints Gervasius and Protasius. The air is thick with history, from the mosaics to the ancient columns, every corner tells a story of faith, resilience, and art.
It’s not just the architecture that’s interesting; there’s this legend about the Devil’s Column outside, where folklore says the devil himself marked the stone out of frustration. Definitely intriguing!
The Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio is near the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore and the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana, close to the city center of Milan.
Wandering through Milan, you’re bound to look up and see something extraordinary – the Bosco Verticale, or Vertical Forest. Imagine two towers, not just piercing the sky but decked out in green, like nature’s own skyscrapers. Each balcony is a mini-forest, with trees, shrubs, all sorts of plants, making these buildings a part of the city’s breathing, living fabric.
This is Stefano Boeri’s vision come to life, where sustainability isn’t just an idea but a way of life. These towers host over 900 trees, turning the concrete jungle into something more… alive. It’s like the city’s air gets a bit fresher, and the birds have a new home, all while folks live in these vertical gardens.
You can find the Bosco Verticale towers in Milan, specifically in the Porta Nuova district, on Via Gaetano de Castillia.
You’ll find Palazzo Lombardia right in central Milan, near the Central Station, on Via Restelli 3 at the corner of Via Galvani. It’s this grand place where the Lombardy region conducts its administrative activities, but it’s the building itself that really catches your eye.
Designed by Pei Cobb Freed & Partners along with Caputo Partnership, it’s all about modern elegance with these vertical glass panels that mirror the sky, making it look different every time you see it depending on the time of day. Come inside and see the very Instagrammable view of the interiors.
The real gem here is the 39th-floor viewpoint, the “Belvedere”. There you get this sweeping view of the city where you can spot the Duomo, maybe even the Alps if the day’s clear, and just soak in the whole vibe of the city from above.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II sits right in the heart of Milan, perfectly connecting Piazza del Duomo with Piazza della Scala. It’s surrounded by some of the city’s most iconic spots that is why it impossible to miss if you’re exploring the center.
The moment you step into the Galleria, you’re surrounded by history and elegance. The architecture is breathtaking, with a huge glass and iron roof that lets in natural light, creating this airy, open space. The central dome, made of glass and steel, steals the show, while the floors below are covered in beautiful, intricate mosaics. You’ll notice the elegant arcades lined with high-end boutiques and cafes that just add to the grand atmosphere.
It’s not just about shopping, though. The Galleria lets you experience parts of Milan’s tradition—like the custom of spinning on the mosaic of the bull for good luck. It’s a great place to pause, grab a coffee, or simply take in the beauty around you.
Fashion and Shopping
Milan is an incredible place to shop—or at least window shop like a pro. Walking through the elegant shopping districts, there’s an undeniable energy—beautiful window displays, impeccably dressed people, and a sense that fashion is truly part of the city’s soul.
For me, there are two must-visit spots to walk around and shop in Milan: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, also known as Milan’s Drawing Room, and the luxury fashion district, Quadrilatero della Moda.
Milan’s Drawing Room
Milan’s Drawing Room, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, is right in the center of Milan, connecting Piazza del Duomo with Piazza della Scala. It’s home to around 50 shops, from high-end fashion to unique bookstores and galleries. You’ll also find some great places to eat, like Biffi and Cracco, where you can enjoy modern Italian cuisine in an iconic setting.
Quadrilatero Della Moda
Quadrilatero della Moda, Milan’s fashion district, is located between Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga, Via Sant’Andrea, and Via Manzoni. It is home to luxury boutiques, designer flagship stores, and high-end ateliers, offering a top-tier shopping experience. Visitors can also enjoy stylish cafés and sophisticated restaurants, perfect for relaxing after indulging in the latest fashion trends.
Michelin-Starred Restaurant
If you love exploring and eating great food, Milan is the place for you! The city has a mix of amazing dining options, from casual neighborhood trattorias to fancy Michelin-starred restaurants. In recent years, Milan had more or less 15 Michelin-starred restaurants, including Enrico Bartolini al Mudec, which has the rare three-star rating!
So, what does a Michelin star actually mean? It’s a system used by the famous Michelin Guide to rate restaurants. One star means “very good,” two stars mean “excellent and worth a detour,” and three stars mean “exceptional and worth a special trip.” Just keep in mind, eating at these high-end spots can get pretty pricey.
Here’s what Michelin Guide found in Enrico Bartolini al Mudec was awarded why it earned Michelin three stars:
“This elegant, contemporary – style restaurant on the third floor of the Museo delle Culture offers an original location and attentive, solicitous service. The apparent simplicity of the menu sets the tone for a concert of dishes which feature extraordinary soloists backed by choirs of ingredients and variations on the same theme, all arranged across several courses which are striking for their imaginative quality. The conductor of this culinary orchestra is young Bartolini, poised and composed on the outside yet full of passion and energy within.” — Michelin Guide
Here is the link to Michelin Guide to see all the Michelin star restaurants in Milan.
But it’s not just about the stars. Milanese chefs are famous for their creative cooking. For example, at Spore in Porta Romana, fermented ingredients take center stage. And if you’re a seafood lover, you have to check out Langosteria, which is known for serving the best fish and shellfish in the city.
Leonardo da Vinci
What really sets Milan apart from other Italian cities is its connection to Leonardo da Vinci. Even though he was born in Florence, Leonardo spent a lot of time in Milan, and his influence is still visible in the city today.
What makes Leonardo da Vinci so amazing? Well, he was a genius who changed the world. He’s most famous for his iconic paintings, the “Mona Lisa” and “The Last Supper,” which are probably the most talked-about and copied artworks ever.
However, Leonardo wasn’t just an artist—he’s considered one of the smartest people in history. He excelled in everything from painting and sculpture to writing, music, engineering, invention, and even anatomy! Seeing his work in person is truly incredible and makes you want to learn more.
For 17 years, Milan was home to Leonardo da Vinci, where he created some of his most famous works, many of which are still in the city today. Here are the top three Leonardo da Vinci-related attractions in Milan that you definitely shouldn’t miss.
- The painting of the Last Supper in Santa Maria Delle Grazie
- Atlanticus Codex (and more) in Pinacoteca Ambrosiana
- Leonardo da Vinci National Science and Technology Museum
Most of us have probably seen depictions of the Last Supper, whether it’s in a church, a Christian home, or online. But what would it be like to see the actual painting? Personally, I think it would be an honor—a rare chance to experience a piece of art that’s admired and cherished all over the world.
The Last Supper, a masterpiece by Leonardo da Vinci, was probably painted between 1495 and 1498. It was part of a major renovation of the Monastery of Santa Maria delle Grazie, funded by Ludovico Sforza. The monastery itself was built in 1459, thanks to a generous donation from Count Gaspare Vimercati to the Dominican friars of Sant’Eustorgio.
Fast forward to World War II, and the monastery became a target during the Allied bombings. In August 1943, a bombing raid over Milan caused serious damage to many of the city’s Catholic landmarks, including Santa Maria delle Grazie. The room that housed The Last Supper was badly hit. But here’s the amazing part: The Last Supper survived!
To protect this priceless painting, officials had used sandbags and scaffolding. When everything settled, the wall with the mural was still standing. A few months later, workers cleared the debris and found Da Vinci’s painting almost untouched. It was a close call—if the roof had collapsed just a bit more, we might have lost this masterpiece forever.
Today, we can still admire The Last Supper in stunning detail, capturing a key moment from Jesus’ passion as described in the Bible. The painting not only shows the final meal Jesus shared with his apostles but also powerfully displays the emotions that surfaced when Judas’ betrayal was revealed.
If you take a closer look, you can really see Leonardo da Vinci’s amazing talent for showing the apostles’ feelings and reactions. The creativity and skill in this masterpiece are truly impressive. And with its massive size—9 meters (29 feet) wide and 2.5 meters (15 feet) tall—it’s even more awe-inspiring.
Planning a visit to see the Last Supper in Santa Maria Delle Grazie? As per the official Milan tourism website, prior booking is required.
Without da Vinci, our world would be totally different. His inventions, like parachutes, portable bridges, diving suits, and even scissors, have had a huge impact on our lives. Can you imagine a world without scissors? Cutting things would be way more difficult without his brilliant ideas.
If you’re as fascinated by Leonardo da Vinci as I am, then Milan should definitely be on your travel list, especially Biblioteca Ambrosiana. Founded in 1618 by Cardinal Federico Borromeo, this library and art museum is a must-see. It houses some of the world’s greatest masterpieces across 24 rooms, including Leonardo da Vinci’s Codex Atlanticus — the largest collection of his writings and sketches. This collection covers his entire career from 1478 to 1519 and includes over 1,200 pages of his work.
As you flip through the pages, you’ll get a glimpse into Leonardo’s brilliant mind across different fields — it’s like stepping right into his genius! You’ll see sketches and studies for his paintings, showing the artist’s creative process. There are also tons of notes on mechanics and hydraulics, reflecting his fascination with how things work.
The Codex Atlanticus also includes his math studies, observations on astronomy, and even some of his philosophical thoughts and fables. And, of course, you’ll find his designs for inventions like parachutes, war machines, and hydraulic pumps.
The Biblioteca Ambrosiana also holds two rare and debated works thought to be by Leonardo: the Portrait of Isabella d’Este, wife of the Duke of Milan, and the Portrait of a Musician. But it’s not just about Leonardo’s work — there’s so much more to explore!
You’ll find an impressive collection of paintings, drawings, and sculptures by famous artists like Caravaggio, Raphael, and Botticelli. Every piece is a visual treat. The library also has historical letters, including the love letters between Lucrezia Borgia and Pietro Bembo.
Planning to visit the Biblioteca Ambrosiana? Here’s a tip: every Saturday at 3:30 pm, there’s a guided tour of the Pinacoteca’s masterpieces. Professional guides lead the tour, so you’ll get to learn all the interesting stories behind the art. Just make sure to check the official website for any updates before you go.
The Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology is Italy’s largest museum focused on science and technology, celebrating the brilliance of Leonardo. Located in the historic San Vittore al Corpo monastery in Milan, the museum combines the old with the new. Visitors will enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience exploring exhibits on topics like transportation, communication, energy, and much more.
One of the highlights of the museum is the section dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci. Here, you can explore many of his drawings, designs, and sketches. Some of these ideas have been brought to life by experts, with displays featuring everything from a hydraulic saw to futuristic flying machines and even submarines. Be ready to be amazed by 50 inventions that were way ahead of their time.
The museum has two floors full of amazing machines built based on Leonardo’s original designs, including things like a multi-directional machine gun, a trench digger, a hang-glider, and even webbed gloves, which were actually the precursor to modern flippers.
Be sure to check out the 39 wooden models of his inventions, first built in Milan in 1952. These models were based on Leonardo’s sketches from his lifetime and offer a fascinating look at his mechanical genius. Finally, get ready for an interactive experience like no other, diving deep into the world of this Renaissance master.
For more information, please check the official website of the museum.
Other Notable Museums
Milan, with over 50 museums throughout the city, is a great destination for culture lovers and curious explorers. The Leonardo da Vinci National Science and Technology Museum and the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana are particularly notable, but there’s so much more to discover.
The city’s museums showcase its rich culture, arts, design, fashion, and beyond. Some feature archaeological finds and scientific inventions, while others focus on sports! In addition to the ones mentioned, I’d recommend visiting the Museo del Novecento, Pinacoteca di Brera, and MUDEC – The Museum of Cultures.
Located just south of Duomo Piazza, the Museo del Novecento is a popular museum focused on 20th-century art.
Its spot offers a great view of the city square, making it a perfect place for visitors to take photos of the city center and cathedral without distractions. What really stands out about the museum, though, is its amazing collection of over 400 pieces, including paintings, photographs, and sculptures created between 1902 and the 1970s.
The museum, opened on December 6th, 2010, is run by the Comune di Milano. Its goal is to share the history of 20th-century art and give a deeper look at the city’s impressive art collection. The main exhibit is a chronological showcase of 20th-century works, featuring key art movements like Abstractionism, Post-Impressionism, and Realism. You’ll also see iconic pieces from modern and contemporary artists such as Mondrian, Modigliani, Picasso, Matisse, and Kandinsky.
Some must-see exhibits include the Mole Antonelliana in Turin, Leonardo’s Vitruvian Man, the Futurist sculpture Unique Forms of Continuity in Space by Umberto Boccioni, and Botticelli’s Venus.
For more information, please refer to the official website of Museo del Novecento.
The Pinacoteca di Brera, or Brera Art Gallery, is Milan’s main public art gallery focused on paintings. Interestingly, it was founded by Napoleon I and has since become one of Italy’s largest art galleries.
When you explore the museum, you’ll come across an impressive collection of Italian art, mostly from the 15th to 18th centuries, covering periods like the Quattrocento and Rococo. The museum is home to works by artists like Picasso, Raphael, Caravaggio, Bellini, and Titian. The paintings on display are stunning, with some still vibrant in color thanks to careful restoration.
With 38 rooms full of famous masterpieces and lesser-known gems, the museum offers a visual feast. Most of the main exhibits are religious works, many of which are huge altarpieces, though.
While art appreciation is personal, I think there are four artworks at the Pinacoteca di Brera that will really catch your eye: ‘Saint Mark Preaching in Alexandria’ by Giovanni Bellini, ‘Madonna of the Cherubim’ by Andrea Mantegna, ‘Finding of the Body of St. Mark’ by Tintoretto, and ‘Madonna della Candeletta’ by Carlo Crivelli.
You’ll probably also find Caravaggio’s ‘Supper at Emmaus,’ ‘Virgin and Saints’ by Piero della Francesca, ‘Marriage of the Virgin’ by Raphael, and ‘Discovery of the Body of St. Mark’ by Tintoretto interesting.
The Pinacoteca di Brera is basically a museum within a museum. It’s situated in the Palazzo Brera, which also hosts other cultural spots like the Brera Library, the Astronomical Observatory, the Botanical Garden, the Lombard Institute for Science and Art, and the Academy of Fine Arts.
Tickets can be bought on their official website or at the entrance.
If you’re in Milan, one place you definitely shouldn’t miss is MUDEC, the Museum of Cultures. It’s located in the trendy Tortona district, which is just south of the city center. The museum itself is housed in a beautifully repurposed industrial building, combining modern architecture with a fascinating journey through global cultures.
MUDEC is all about celebrating diversity. It showcases art, traditions, and histories from around the world—Africa, Asia, Oceania, and Indigenous cultures all get their time to shine here. The exhibits are carefully curated to give a real sense of each culture’s uniqueness, making it not just an art museum but a place to learn about the world’s shared and diverse human experience.
What makes MUDEC so special is how it invites you to think deeper about culture. It’s not just about admiring beautiful objects (though there are plenty of those); it’s about reflecting on the stories behind them. Plus, it’s got a vibrant calendar of events, talks, and workshops, so it’s always fresh and engaging.
Some of the highlights? The permanent collection is a must-see, with over 7,000 pieces from all corners of the globe. The museum’s focus on African art and artifacts from Indigenous peoples is especially compelling, but there’s so much more to explore. And don’t forget the temporary exhibitions—they’re often tied to contemporary art and design, keeping the experience dynamic and ever-changing.
The museum building itself is worth a visit. Designed by architect David Chipperfield, it blends old industrial charm with sleek modern touches. The large glass panels and open spaces create a calm atmosphere that lets you fully absorb what you’re seeing.
If you’re planning a visit, you’ll find MUDEC at Via Tortona 56. It’s easy to get to by metro, and the area around it is full of cafes and shops, so you can easily make a day of it.
Here’s the official website to learn more about MUDEC.
Here’s a list of all the museums in Milan for you to check out.
Urban Art
If you’re looking for something different in Milan, the street art scene is definitely worth checking out. The city has what might be Italy’s longest stretch of street art and graffiti—an entire urban canvas full of vibrant colors and creativity. Walking through these streets feels like stepping into the minds of the people who live here, with each piece telling a personal story or sharing an expression. Some murals have powerful messages, while others pay tribute to famous figures from recent years.
You’ll spot these works all over Milan, but the Ortica district, just east of the city center, is where you’ll find the most concentrated collection, especially along Via Ortica and Via Camillo e Otto Cima. Want to see it for yourself? Check out a 360-image of the area and explore it virtually.
Via Ortica
Via Camillo o Otto Cima
La Scala
Even if opera isn’t your thing (it’s not mine either), you’ll definitely want to visit Teatro Alla Scala, or La Scala, when you’re in Milan. It’s Italy’s most famous opera house, and just being there is an unforgettable experience.
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Go Beyond Milan
When traveling in Northern Italy, Milan is just the beginning of an incredible journey. Head north to see the breathtaking Dolomites, or go south to explore the picture-perfect Cinque Terre. Surrounding Milan, you’ll find even more cities and towns filled with stunning historical landmarks that make for an unforgettable experience—like Verona, Florence, and Venice. Here’s WanderInEurope’s bucket list of must-visit destinations in Northern Italy to get you started!
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