Milan, a major city in northern Italy, is renowned as a global capital of fashion and design. The city boasts numerous attractions. So, what are the best things to do in Milan? Check them out in this article!
Best Things to Do in Milan
Milan offers a multitude of attractions and activities, drawing from its rich cultural heritage, artistic significance, fashion influence, and lively urban scene. The city’s unique blend of history, art, and contemporary allure ensures a wealth of experiences for both residents and visitors alike.
What to Do in Milan
Discover Milan’s gems: marvel at the intricate beauty of the Duomo, witness Da Vinci’s masterpiece, “The Last Supper,” explore the history of Sforza Castle, shop at the luxurious Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and savor the city’s dynamic nightlife in Navigli’s vibrant canal district. Furthermore, see all the best things to do in Milan before your visit.
1. Journey into Milan’s Medieval Marvel at Duomo di Milano
The Duomo di Milano is a stunning medieval cathedral known for its Gothic architecture and intricate details, including impressive spires and statues. Ticket prices vary based on the areas you want to access; general entry is often free, but fees apply to specific sections such as terraces or archaeological areas.
You can use public transportation to get there, as the Duomo is centrally located in Milan. The Duomo Metro station is right there, making it easily accessible. If you prefer walking, it’s a prominent landmark and easy to find. Additionally, buses and trams also serve the area.
Opening hours are daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 3 PM to 6 PM. Try to visit this place as the best things to do in Milan. For more information, read here.
2. Discover the Timeless Beauty of Art at Santa Maria delle Grazie
Visit Santa Maria delle Grazie, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of art. One intriguing aspect is the opportunity to witness Da Vinci’s masterpiece, “The Last Supper,” renowned for its historical significance and artistic brilliance. This can be one of the best things to do in Milan.
Ticket prices vary, often requiring advance booking due to high demand. For instance, general entry fees might range from EUR 10 to 15/USD 10.82 to 16.24, with additional charges for guided tours or special viewings.
Santa Maria delle Grazie operates with specific opening hours. You can explore the basilica from Monday to Saturday during two main time slots: 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
On Sundays, visiting hours are slightly different, allowing entry from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM and then again from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM. However, it’s important to note that visits are prohibited during celebration times. For more information, check here.
To reach Santa Maria delle Grazie, public transport such as buses or trams can be convenient. The nearest metro station is Cadorna. Walking is also an option, especially in the city center.
3. Embrace Tranquility and Scenic Beauty at Lake Como – The Best Things to Do in Milan
Lake Como offers captivating scenery with its deep-blue waters, charming villages, and the surrounding Alpine mountains. Visitors often enjoy leisurely boat tours, exploring picturesque towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Como itself.
Many attractions around Lake Como, such as villas, gardens, or boat tours, have varied ticket prices. For instance, a boat tour might range from EUR 10 to 50/USD 10.82 to 54.12, while villa entry fees can be around EUR 5 to 10/USD 5.41 to 10.82.
Getting to Lake Como is accessible by train from Milan to towns like Como or Varenna. Once there, boats are a common way to navigate the lake and explore its various towns. Visiting Lake Como is definitely one of the best things to do in Milan.
Attraction opening hours can differ, so it’s best to check specific locations like villas or museums, as they each have their schedules. Typically, boat services operate from morning until early evening, but the hours might vary based on the season.
In Milan’s Navigli District, immerse yourself in the picturesque canals, vibrant cafes, art galleries, and unique shops lining the streets. The area comes alive in the evenings with bustling bars and restaurants, offering a lively and exciting atmosphere as the best things to do in Milan.
Getting to Navigli is accessible using public transport like trams and buses. The Porta Genova station serves as a central access point. Alternatively, walking is a fantastic way to soak in the lively streets and canals, especially if you’re already in the city center.
5. Enjoy a World-Class Performance at La Scala di Milano
At La Scala di Milano, witness world-class performances in a renowned opera house steeped in history and elegance. The venue has hosted some legendary operas and ballets, offering an unforgettable cultural experience as one of the best things to do in Milan.
Ticket prices at La Scala vary significantly depending on the event, seating, and availability. Costs can range from around EUR 30/USD 32.04 for gallery seats to several hundred Euros for prime locations during prestigious performances. Get tickets here.
You can easily reach La Scala using public transportation, such as the metro or tram. The Duomo station is nearby and within walking distance from the city center, making it conveniently accessible for visitors.
6. Shop to Your Heart’s Content at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a historic shopping arcade famed for its stunning architecture, adorned with ornate glass ceilings, mosaic floors, and luxury boutiques. It’s a hub for high-end shopping, dining, and admiring architectural beauty.
Conveniently located near the Duomo in Milan, the Galleria can be easily accessed by walking from the city center. Public transportation, such as trams or the metro, can also get you there, with the Duomo station being the closest stop. Shopping at this place is one of the best things to do in Milan!
7. Wander Around the Renaissance Majesty of Sforzesco Castle
The Sforzesco Castle boasts Renaissance grandeur and stands as an emblem of Milan’s history. Visitors can explore its rich heritage, with various museums showcasing art, historical artifacts, and Michelangelo’s final sculpture, the Rondanini Pietà.
The castle welcomes visitors with free entrance from 7:00 AM to 7:30 PM daily. Additionally, the castle museums operate from Tuesday to Sunday, opening at 10:00 AM and closing at 5:30 PM, with the last ticket sold at 4:30 PM and final admission at 5:00 PM.
Note that the museums are closed on Mondays, as well as on December 25th, January 1st, and May 1st. For further information, check it out here.
You can easily reach Sforzesco Castle using public transport such as buses or trams. The Cairoli station is the closest metro stop and is also within walking distance from the city center, making it accessible for visitors to explore this historical landmark as the best things to do in Milan.
8. Recharge Your Soul by Embracing the Tranquility of Parco Sempione
Parco Sempione, a gorgeous urban oasis in Milan, seamlessly combines nature and city life. Enter through the stunning Arco della Pace gate to reach the iconic Castello Sforzesco, a 15th-century manor commissioned by Duke Francesco Sforza. Don’t miss the romantic Little Mermaid Bridge, perfect for creating a special moment and also the best things to do in Milan.
Afterward, explore the park’s beauty, whether lounging on the lawn or biking around. Surrounding landmarks, such as the kid-friendly Acquario Civico, the sports hub Arena Civica, contemporary art at the Triennale, and the panoramic views from the 108-meter-high Torre Branca, add even more charm to this area.
You can conveniently use public transport, such as the metro to the Cairoli or Cadorna stations, both a short walk from the park’s entrances. This is one of the best things to do in Milan!
For more information, check this page.
Traveling Tips
When in Milan, embrace local customs like enjoying Aperitivo, savoring Espresso, and respecting the city’s elegant dress code. Public transportation is efficient for exploring. It’s advisable to book attractions in advance, especially for iconic sites like The Last Supper. Engage with Milan’s art, history, and culinary delights to truly savor the experience.
Now that you know the best things to do in Milan, book your flights with Airpaz today!
