With almost two million tourists visiting Milan every year, it is certainly not a city to ignore. It can be enjoyed as part of a trip to the beautiful Lombardy or on its own. We just want to give you a few pointers on what to do in Milan.
Visit Il Duomo
The Gothic beauty of the largest cathedral in Italy never ceases to astonish visitors. You can even adopt a spire of the Duomo if you want to help the ongoing restoration.
Listen to the classics at la Scala
Teatro alla Scala is one of the main Milan attractions. It has been staging stunning productions for 200 years. The greatest opera and ballet talents have graced its stage. Book you tickets in advance as they sell out very quickly.
See fine art at the Pinacoteca di Brera
Palazzo Brera houses one of the best collections of Italian paintings in the world. Spend a few hours admiring Tizian, Tintoretto, Raphael and Caravaggio.
Admire old mosaics at the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio
This church is often overlooked by tourists despite the fact that it is one of the oldest churches in Milan. It has beautiful bell towers and some stunning mosaics.
Swoon at Michelangelo’s last sculpture at the Sforza Castle
This 14th century fortified princely residence has been damaged during wars and rebuilt many times. Some of the best Italian talents worked here such as Bramante and Leonardo da Vinci. Today the Castello complex includes a number of museums. In the Museum of ancient art you can see Michelangelo’s Rondanini Pietà.
Shop at the fashion district
What to do in Milan after a good doze of art ? It is time to head to the area where you can do the best shopping in Milan. Via Montenapoleone and the streets around it are famous for its high-end boutiques and jewellery shops. Here you will find the best Italian fashion brands.
- Milan’s canal
Walk along Milan’s canals
Although it is not a well-known fact but Milan also has its water canals (“navigli” in Italian). Centuries ago they were used for navigations. You can enjoy a walk along one of them, Naviglio Pavese, or just relax on one of the moored bar-boats with a glass of wine.
Photos by duomomilano.it, Teatro alla Scala, Wikimedia Commons, Stefano Stabile,
