What are the best things to do in Milan? We at Visit Italy have selected 10 of the must-see attractions in 2024.
If you are wondering about things to do in Milan, you are in the right place. With this guide we have prepared for you, we will show you the most important attractions.
Discover things to do in Milan, the capital of Lombardy, where famous works of art, historic castles, museums and iconic theatres mix with great food and a dynamic, modern lifestyle. Did you know that its historical centre is entirely walkable, perfect for a pleasant stroll?
You are in one of the four fashion capitals of the world, but the appeal of this cosmopolitan city goes beyond designer labels. Let's take a look at the most important things to do in Milan.
Let's find out in detail the 10 things to do in Milan at least once in a lifetime
Let's find out what things to do in Milan at least once in a lifetime. This is Italy's most European city: an economic, artistic and cultural centre, it is a must-see. Let's find out together what you can see. We have put together a handy guide to the best attractions and things to do in Milan. The capital of Lombardy is a concentration of history and avant-garde architecture that lovingly coexist. There are many things to see, many interesting corners and many things to do in Milan. Visit the Duomo, San Maurizio al Monastero, the Sistine Chapel and the Castello Sforzesco. Take a walk in the Brera district. Don't leave without seeing the Cenacolo Vinciano and without a boat trip on the Navigli via the Darsena.
10. Things to do in Milan: Visit Duomo, Rooftops and Museum
Visit the Duomo di Milano and admire its imposing marble façade, fascinating interior, museum and rooftop terrace. Explore the cathedral and take the stairs or lift to the rooftop for a 360-degree view of the city. The Duomo di Milano is located in the city centre and is an exceptional focal point and a must-see for any tourist to the fashion capital. Piazza Duomo, the cathedral square, has always been the historical, cultural and political centre of the city. From the terraces of the Duomo you can admire the details of the typical Gothic towers, arches, pinnacles and statues, as well as an incredible view. Skip the 200 steps and take the lift up to the Rooftop.
9. Museum of Illusions
Enter the wonderful world of illusions. A world that entertains you by deceiving your senses and at the same time gives you the chance to learn something new from your mind. Seize the opportunity and you will be amazed. Because nothing is as it seems... especially here! Are you ready for a super adventure? Among the things to do in Milan visit the Museum of Illusions. We offer you an incredible experience that will shock your senses with many new and unexplored illusions and at the same time give you the opportunity to learn something about your mind. This is a perfect place for people of all ages to immerse themselves in the world of the unexpected. Perfect for new experiences and having fun with friends and family. A place loved not only by children, but also and especially by adults.
8. Admission ticket to Castello Sforzesco
The Castello Sforzesco is a large fortified complex located in Milan right next to the city centre. It was built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, who had recently become Duke of Milan, on the remains of an earlier medieval fortress from the 14th century known as the Castello di Porta Giovia (or Zobia). In the same area as the Castello di Porta Giovia in Roman times stood the Castrum Portae Jovis, one of the four defensive castles of Roman Milan. Considerably changed and modified over the centuries, the Castello Sforzesco was one of the most important European military fortresses of the 16th and 17th centuries. Restored between 1890 and 1905 by Luca Beltrami, is now home to important museums and cultural institutions. This is one of the largest castles in Europe and one of the most important symbols of the city and its history.
7. The Last Supper by Leonardo Da Vinci
The Last Supper is a fresco created by Leonardo da Vinci. Also known as The Last Supper, this mural is painted on plaster using a dry technique. Commissioned by Ludovico il Moro some years before 1500, it is located in the refectory of the monastery next to the sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie, and seeing it is one of the things to do in Milan. This is the Last Supper of Jesus one of the famous masterpieces of Leonardo and the Italian Renaissance. Despite this, the work has been in a poor state of preservation for centuries, due to the unique experimental technique used by Leonardo, incompatible with the humidity of the environment. This is precisely why it underwent one of the longest restorations in history, lasting from 1978 to 1999 using the most advanced techniques in the field. You cannot help but admire it live at least once in your life.
6. Shopping Tour a Fidenza Village
One of the things to do in Milan is to spend a day shopping at the Fidenza Outlet Village. Discover the many shops there, a true paradise for luxury brands. Enjoy a round trip and indulge in some shopping. You're in a shopping paradise and only an hour's drive away. Get your credit card ready for luxury shopping in more than 120 shops filled with products from Italian designers and international brands. The fashion capital of the world cannot be visited without compulsive shopping. At Fidenza Village you can get up to 70% off the original price and you will also receive a free VIP card with an additional 10% discount.
5. Guided tour of Villa Necchi Campiglio
Situated in the heart of a quiet neighbourhood in the centre, Villa Necchi Campiglio was designed in the early 1930s by architect Piero Portaluppi for the Necchi sisters, high-ranking members of Lombardy's industrial bourgeoisie. Conceived for all kinds of comfort, it was full of various useful accessories for enjoying free time alone or in the company of friends. All characteristics that, thanks to its luxury and modernity, have made the Villa one of the symbolic residences of its time. The villa is open to everyone, respecting the wishes of the Necchi sisters, who entrusted the flat to the FAI in 2001 to turn it into a residence. In the garden there are many events on the calendar, a cool place and an elegant bistro hidden in the greenery.
4. Acquatica Park
One of the things to do in Milan on a hot day is definitely go to the Acquatica Park. The water park allows young and old alike to spend fun and carefree days surrounded by white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and refreshingly shady palm trees while being a stone's throw from the city. Families will be able to enjoy the tranquil swimming pool, challenge the continuous water current of the fast-flowing torrent or experience the fun-filled all-curves course aboard special rubber dinghies. Fun is not lacking for the little ones either. They will find an area where there are different play opportunities, fun water splashes, adventure courses and some fun mini-slides. A modern water park where there are various types of slides with a very wide offer to satisfy just about everyone. Inside the aquapark, there are large green areas for complete relaxation, picnic and sunbathing areas, sports areas, a beach shop, a games room, a restaurant, two bars and numerous refreshment points.
3. Things to do in Milan: uncovered bus tour
Definitely one of the things to do in Milan to discover it without stress is the open-top bus tour. Hop on and off the modern double-decker buses and enjoy the best views from above, take your photos from a strategic position and enjoy the Lombard capital even on a rainy day. To listen in several languages to the guidebook that will tell you what you are seeing, simply connect your earphones to the multimedia system provided. Connect your portable devices with the free Wi-Fi on the bus and charge them or your smartphone via the USB port. If you get thirsty, no problem, you can buy several drinks on board. The route passes through a number of stops where you can get off and get back on independently. Discover them, find out more and book your tour.
2. Things to do in Milan: Boat Tour of the Navigli and the Darsena
Things to do in Milan? Discover it from the water on a tour of the city on the Navigli, through canals, quays and down to the Darsena. Pass by some of the most famous sights on this 1-hour electric boat tour of the city. Starting from the Naviglio Grande you can see the typical Milanese Ringhiera houses depicting the Milan of the past. After a few minutes of an idyllic boat ride, you will come across one of the city's oldest churches, the Church of San Cristoforo, whose construction began in the 13th century. Continuing your tour, along the Naviglio Grande, you will come across the historic headquarters of the Canottieri Milano Olona, one of the coolest places to do sports and more. Continuing on, you will find the Vicolo dei lavandai, a famous architectural gem named after the inhabitants who once washed clothes there. Crossing the Ponte dello Scodellino, you will reach the modern and famous Darsena, known for centuries as an area for leisure and relaxation. Still today it is the centre of Milan's movida and is full of bars, restaurants and clubs. After leaving the Darsena, walk along the Naviglio Pavese and take a look at the 'Borgo dei Formaggiai', where the delicious Mascarpone is said to have been invented.
1. La Scala Theatre: Guided Tour Theatre + Museum
Things to do in Milan include a guided tour of the museum and La Scala Theatre. Colloquially called La Scala, it is the main opera house. Considered, in fact, the most prestigious theatre in the world. For 245 years, it has hosted major international opera, ballet and classical music artists. The building was designed by Giuseppe Piermarini and opened in 1778 with Antonio Salieri's opera 'L'Europa riconosciuta', created especially for the occasion. It was built in 1776 following a fire at the Teatro Ducale. Since its foundation, there has been a chorus, an orchestra, a dance troupe of the same name and since 1982 the Philharmonic. The theatre complex is located in the square of the same name next to the Casino Ricordi, home of the Museo Teatrale alla Scala.
