Milan or Milano as they call it here, is one of the world’s greatest cities, make no mistake! It has something of everything as most people say, right from history and architectural wonders everywhere to the rich culture, fabulous dishes, and possibly the world’s biggest fashion hubs. 

There are plenty of things to do in Milan as you’ll find out on your trip to this vibrant city. And it’s not all play and no work; you’ll be amazed to know that Milan is Italy’s largest financial centre and a major manufacturing and business hotspot too! 

Most of us also find Milan to be the world’s undisputed fashion capital and rightfully so. It’s not just the Milan Fashion Week, but also the fabulous designs, boutiques, and a roll call of brands in the legions of fashion history- Prada, Gucci, Armani, Versace- you name it! 

And of course, there’s always the thrill of seeing The Last Supper with your own eyes and marveling at the Duomo, one of Europe’s finest Gothic architecture marvels. Doesn’t it sound like a fabulous place to visit already? Let’ s look closely at some of the best attractions worth checking out in the city. 

What is Milan Famous For? 

Before getting into the list of Milan things to see and do, let’s take a look at what the city is famous for. Plenty as it turns out, right from its status as the world’s fashion capital to delicious food, architecture, art, and more. 
Who doesn’t know about The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci and risotto alla Milanese, Ossobuco, panettone, and other iconic dishes? And the lovely Navigli Canals designed by Da Vinci himself along with the iconic Borsa Italiana stock exchange? It’s one of the world’s most bustling and famous cities with tons of attractions waiting for you to explore. 

Best Times to Visit Milan

• Spring (April-May): Pleasant weather, lesser crowds than summer, and events like the Milan Design Week 
• Autumn (September-October): Comfortable weather, lovely foliage, and outdoor sightseeing 

Don't Miss Out on these Things to Do in Milan 

Wondering what to do in Milan, here’s a list of top activities and attractions that might help. The city gets thousands of tourists throughout the year and you’ll be happy to know that it has something to suit every taste and budget. 

Explore Milan’s Iconic Landmarks

Two of Milan’s most famous landmarks are must-visits on your trip. Here’s looking at them both below: 

1. The Magnificence of the Duomo di Milano

The Duomo di Milano is the biggest church in Italy and a Gothic marvel with 3,000+ statues spanning the Baptistry, cathedral, and rooftop. That’s not all; the imposing architecture and fabulous views from the rooftop are worth mentioning along with the Statue of Saint Bartholomew Flayed. Don’t miss these two on your visit. 

Tips: 

• Visit early in the morning.
• Ticket prices are usually €26-59.
• Timings are 9 AM-7 PM.
• You can book guided tours or choose fast-track tickets with elevator access.
• The M1 and M3 metro lines go to Duomo while you can take the trams 15, 2, 14, and others to reach. 

2. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Shopping with History

History and amazing shopping experiences combine at this hub of culture and fashion in Milan. A sophisticated and cosmopolitan landmark on Piazza Duomo, it offers global retail stores and luxury emporiums along with gourmet dining and charming portico-covered streets. 

Insider alert- you’ll find the Umberto Boccioni masterpiece Riot in the Gallery (154 feet tall) here. Also, check out the Highline walkway on the rooftop and the charming Libreria Bocca bookstores and publishers. 
Tips: 

• The centre is open 24-7 although it is busy on weekends and between 12-6 PM on weekdays.
• Most shops stay open between 9.30-13:00 and again from 15:00-20:00, while some stay open till 23:00.
• The nearest station is Milano Cadorna (15 minutes on foot) while you can take the red metro line to the Duomo.
• If you’re in Milano Centrale, take the yellow line to Duomo (10-minute journey).

Neighborhood Adventures 

Some of the biggest Milan, Italy attractions can be found in its most iconic neighborhoods. 

1. Navigli: Canals and Café Culture

If you’re into a mix of shopping, dining, and waterside relaxation, then the Navigli District is for you! It’s got everything from a famous canal system to charming boutiques, restaurants, and bars. 
What’s more, the place actually goes back to the 12th century, making it a historical spot in its own right. And there’s more to attract you- from the buzzing nightlife here to the lovely art galleries and the eternal charm of a stroll by the waterside. 

Don’t miss the Naviglio Grande, the oldest and most iconic canal in the city, which is lined with restaurants, bars, and cafes. Other must-visits include the Mercato Metropolitano for authentic Italian fare and the Museum of Cultures. 

How to Reach: Take the M2 metro line to Porta Genova/Agostino and walk to the canal. Alternatively, take the tram line 3, and get off at Piazza XXIV Maggio or Corsa di Porta Ticinese. 

Book Your stay in Milan in the popular neighbourhood and enjoy all the attractions right next door.

2. Brera: The Artistic Heart of Milan

Imagine a picture-perfect artists’ quarter with beautiful cobbled pathways, historic and magnificent buildings, and famous studios and galleries. Only, it’s a reality here in Brera, which is a hub of creativity and culture in Milan. 

Don’t miss the Pinacoteca di Brera, a famous gallery with several masterpieces, including works of Raphael, Caravaggio, and Bellini. Then there’s the Chiesa di San Marco, one of Milan’s oldest churches, and the Orto Botanico di Brera (botanical garden). 
You can also check out the Accademia di Belle Arti and Via Fiori Chiari, one of the area’s most visually appealing streets with boutiques, cafes, and galleries. It’s a good place to take a walk and click photographs. 

How to Reach: Take the metro line 2 (green) to reach the Lanza station. It’s a short walk from here to the centre of Brera. Light rail lines (15, 16, 4), buses (43, 58, 57), and trains (S6/S8) are also available. 

Cultural Delights 

Some of the biggest Milan attractions lie in its cultural treasures which visitors should be truly fortunate to witness. 

1. Discovering Leonardo’s The Last Supper

You’ll find this in its original location- the dining room wall of the previous Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. This massive painting was reportedly made between 1494 and 1498, showcasing the last dinner between Lord Jesus and his disciples. 

You can easily visit one of the world’s most iconic artworks by purchasing tickets. There is a limited supply, so book online in advance. 

Insider tip:  You can combine your tickets with a Milan Audioguide or entries to the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana or Brera Gallery. 

2. Teatro alla Scala: A Night at the Opera

Opera is integral to Italian cultural life and nowhere is it more prominent than at this iconic opera house in the Milan city centre, opposite the Palazzo Marino (city hall) on the Piazza della Scala square. 
Tips:

• You can buy tickets at the box office (12 PM-6 PM each day) and obtain the seasonal calendar free of charge. 
• Ticket prices vary and performances are usually around 2 hours for concerts. 
• Operas and ballets have varying durations at this famous theater that has premiered the creations of Verdi, Rossini, Puccini, and Donizetti. 
• The opening or Prima della Scala takes place every year on the feast of St. Ambrose, the patron saint of Milan (7th December). 

Insider recommendation: Don’t miss a guided tour of the historic theater. You’ll love all the local stories and fascinating anecdotes from the past here! 

Culinary Experiences

Let’s head up to some culinary delights from all the sightseeing. Milan lines up a variety of signature dishes and treats in front of you! 

1. Savoring Risotto alla Milanese:

Trying this irresistible dish is one of the top things to do in Milan, Italy. It’s been around since the mid-1800s and comes from the Lombardy region. Savini in the Galleria is an insider recommendation if you want to try the best version of the dish on your trip. 

How was the dish created? The story goes that some glassmakers apparently took a little saffron for coloring windows at the Duomo and added it to risotto. And voila! A new dish was born! 

2. Traditional Aperitivo: Milan’s Social Hour

You haven’t experienced Milanese culture properly if you haven’t enjoyed the traditional social hour or Aperitivo yet. It’s usually between 6-9 PM and involves pre-dinner drinks, socializing, and snacking. Most people love trying Campari, Prosecco, Vermouth, and cocktails with small bites and appetizers. 

Aperitivo is available at almost all restaurants and bars in Milan, which is a plus. Also, you may sometimes have fixed-price offerings with buffets and cocktails (these may be more practical and affordable). 

3. Signature Milanese Dishes

It’s hard to try almost everything in one go, but here are some signature dishes that you simply have to try (at least as many as possible)! 

Minestrone Milanese: Rice with vegetables cooked in a lovely broth (served cold in summer and hot in winter). Where to Try: Trattoria Mirta (near the Loreto area) with goat cheese. 
Ossobuco: Dig into the bone with a hole or veal with onions, carrots, broth, and celery with risotto alla Milanese for company. Where to Try: Osteria dell’Acquabella in Porta Romana. 
Panettone: Delicious fruitcake with raisins and candied citrus. Where to Try: Pasticceria Cucchi in Corso Genova. 
Cassoeula: Enjoy this comforting cabbage and pork stew, particularly in the winter months. Where to Try: Don Lisander (bordering Quadrilatero Della Moda and Brera). 
Polenta: Cornmeal porridge or boiled cornmeal never tasted as exciting! You can have it with a stew-based main course. Where to Try: Al Cantinone (near the Duomo) where they pair it with mushrooms and cheese. 
Gorgonzola: The town itself is famous for this soft and iconic blue cheese with two forms, namely piccante or spicy and dolce or sweet. Where to Try: Asso di Fiori. 

Hidden Gems

If you think you’ve had your fill of history, culture, and cuisine- think again! Milan has a lot more to offer, particularly in its hidden gems which are a rich repository of stories and legends from the past and some particularly unique offerings that you’ll not find elsewhere. On that note, here are some of these Milan attractions that you shouldn’t miss. 

1. San Bernardino alle Ossa: The Chapel of Bones

Located next to the Church of Santa Maria Presso San Satiro, it is called the Milan Bone Chapel. You’ll find the interior astonishingly done up with human skulls and bones arranged in patterns on the ceilings, walls, and even pillars. Sounds macabre yet thrilling? Wait till you see it in person! 

2. Villa Necchi Campiglio: Step Back in Time

Go back in time with a visit to this architectural masterpiece that’s neatly ensconced in a private garden with a tennis court, pool, and more. It dates back to 1935 and is known for its stunning attractions like the elegant salon, library, smoking room, and dining room. You’ll find it at Via Mozart and timings range from 10 AM to 6 PM (closed on Monday and Tuesday). Ticket prices can be approximately €9-15. 

Art and Museums

If you’re a museum buff and/or art lover, then Milan is just the place for you! While it’s hard to squeeze in everything (and there are plenty) on a single trip, here are a few that are worth checking out first. 

(Image Credit: wikipedia.org/wiki/Triennale_di_Milano)

See an exhibition at the Triennale Milano

• Open from 10.30 AM-8 PM (Tuesday-Sunday) and photography is allowed for personal use.
• It is one of the world’s most famous cultural hubs (dates back to 1923), with multiple exhibitions on offer at any given time.
• Don’t miss the Caffe Triennale, store, and garden here.
• You can buy tickets online and book guided tours.
• Reach via the metro lines 1 and 2 (Cardona-Triennale stop) or the 85-line bus. 

Pinacoteca di Brera: A Collection of Masterpieces

• It was established officially in 1809 although the first collection was reportedly present from 1776 onwards.
• The museum is closed every Monday and its timings on other days are 8.30 AM-7.15 PM.
• You can book your tickets online and visit by taking the M2 line to Lanza or the M3 line to Montenapoleone.
• Don’t miss the paintings by Tintoretto, Bellini, and Raphael, along with fabulous medieval Italian and Neoclassical art. 
• There’s also the famous Biblioteca Nazionale Braidense national library, astronomical observatory, and the Orto Botanico di Brera here.

Shopping Extravaganza

Describing the shopping scene in Milan is nothing short of challenging! The city’s the fashion capital of the world and in that sense, you’ll see everyone who matters, right from Dolce Gabbana and Armani to Prada, Gucci, and plenty more. The luxury fashion hub is the Quadrilatero della Moda and you’d do well to check out the Via Monte Napoleone and Via Della Spiga for some serious luxury shopping as well. And then there’s the never-ending homegrown Italian fashion brands and boutique offerings. You can find them at places like La Rinascente at the Piazza Duomo or even Corso Venezia, to name a few. 
Let’s take a look at some of the best local markets and souvenir places for your trip. 

Local markets for shopping

Corso Buenos Aires: Open from 10 AM-9 PM each day, it offers everything from Mango, Zara, and Nike to affordable Italian wares. Buy clothing, jewelry, and accessories here. 
Mercato Papiniano: A flea market with amazing leather goods, clothing, dresses, and bags, it is worth visiting indeed. Try the fabulous street food here and pick up that cashmere you always coveted! Timings are from 8 AM-1 PM (Piazza Sant’Agostino).
Cormano Flea Market: It’s one of the biggest such markets in Europe with timings between 6 AM and 1 PM. Situated at Via Europa, it offers furniture, pottery, books, home products, footwear, and clothing at lower rates. 
Via Brera: A bohemian vibe characterizes this street market, where you can buy jewelry, artwork, antiques, perfumes, and clothing. It is open 24-7 at Zone 1, Brera District, with boutiques opening at 8.30 AM.

Where to Find Unique Souvenirs

Brera Art District: Pick up the classic prints here.
Opera memorabilia: Buy it from the La Scala Opera House.
Sweets and biscuits: Buy them from the Pasticceria Marchesi by Prada.
Chocolates: Indulge in the world’s finest chocolates from Zaini Milano.
Toys and other Souvenirs: Fiera di Sinigaglia is the top flea market to purchase them. It opens every Saturday from dawn and runs till dusk (Naviglio Grande Canal)

Practical Travel Tips

Navigating Milan: Public Transport and More

• The metro is the fastest option with four lines (two of which stop at Duomo and connect to the Milan Central Station). You can purchase tickets on the ATM app or station machines. One ride is roughly 2 Euros. 
• Tram lines are readily available to reach the city centre. You can buy tickets at tobacco shops or metro stations. The ATM app also offers downloads for day passes or single-ride tickets. The numbering here is 1-33. 
• Buses: You’ll find them shuttling throughout the city with ATM Milano and metro stations available for buying tickets. 
• You can purchase unlimited day passes at 4.50 Euros and weekly passes at slightly more than 11 Euros with discounts for students, seniors, and children. 

General Tips

• Metro stops are indicated by the white and red M lampposts.
• Subway train timings are 6 AM-1 AM usually.
• The 94 bus is ideal for the city centre and tourist landmarks.
• Press the button to alert the conductor and get off the bus.
• The 4, 2, 16, and 14 trams are ideal for visiting city landmarks.
• BikeMi is a bike-sharing option that you can avail of for exploring Milan.

Where to Stay 

As most travellers will testify, Milan has no dearth of accommodation. Budget, mid-range, and luxury hotels are all present in large numbers across the city and even beyond. Another good option is to stay in a serviced apartment near the city’s major landmarks and shopping/dining hubs. Many furnished apartments are available for long-term and short-term stays in prime areas, you can now explore your options for serviced apartments in Milan.

The best part is that you can choose as per your preferred size and itinerary while enjoying competitive rates, 24-7 support, and great amenities (these include everything from Wi-Fi to fully-equipped kitchens). It’s like living in a home away from home with all the luxuries at hand. Some apartments even offer parking, elevators, fitness centres, concierge services, pools, and business facilities. Add complete privacy and flexibility (unlike hotels) to the mix and what you’ve got is a great package. 

Also Read: Best Places to Stay in Milan to choose the Neighborhood suitable for You.

Conclusion 

As you can see, Milan has its own charm and an irresistible blend of history, culture, architecture, art, food, and theater to offer. Plan your trip to this beautiful city beforehand to avoid the last-minute rush. Book your travel tickets and serviced apartments along with tickets to major attractions and museums in advance. Here’s to a wonderful vacation ahead in Milan!