What Not to Miss in Milan: 12 Tips From an Insider

Are you looking for things to do in Milan? Then continue reading for a list of Milan’s best attractions plus some useful insider tips.

Milan, the fashion capital in Italy, is known for its architecture and design. Even if you’re not usually into architecture like I was at first, you will still fall in love with it during your trip!

I studied in Milan, which gave me the opportunity to see and do the many things this beautiful city has to offer.

In this article, I want to share with you what not to miss in Milan. This will include some of the main must-see tourist attractions as well as a few of Milan’s hidden gems.

What to See & What to Do in Milan, Italy

 

1. Duomo

The Duomo di Milano, or Milan Cathedral, is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe and took nearly six centuries to complete.

This is the main attraction of Milan and the view while walking up this Gothic-style cathedral is stunning. It gives you an amazing panoramic view of the city, which is not to be missed.

If you don’t feel like taking the staircase all the way up, you can also take an elevator to the roof of the cathedral and have fewer steps to climb to the highest point.

Either way, the Duomo is a must see in Milan!

2. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a luxury and world-famous shopping center located next to the Duomo.

It is the world’s oldest active shopping mall and a major landmark of Milan.

With its iron and glass ceiling and central dome it’s an impressive building with plenty of restaurants and shops to explore.

My favorite place to stop is Marchesi 1824 for an espresso and a Milanese pastry.

Local Tip: While you’re here, look up and take in the beautiful mosaics under the dome, each representing a different Italian city. And if you want a bit of good luck, head to the mosaic of the bull from Turin (you’ll spot it on the floor near the center). Tradition says to place your heel on the bull’s… well… more delicate part and spin three times. Locals swear it brings good fortune. It’s a fun little Milanese ritual most tourists don’t know about.

3. Castello Sforzesco

Castello Sforzesco or Sforzesco Castle was built in the 15th century on the remnants of a 14th-century fortification.

It hosts various museums including an Egyptian museum and works of Leonardo Da Vinci and Michaelangelo.

And, something I love, you can also enjoy a pleasant walk around the courtyards.

4. Parco Sempione

This is a large city park established in 1888, located behind the Castle which then leads to the Arco della Pace.

It’s a great place for a stroll or a picnic on a sunny day.

Local Tip: Head to the Arco della Pace side in the late afternoon. Locals often gather here for aperitivo or casual live music, giving you a real feel for Milanese life beyond the tourist spots.

5. Arco della Pace – The Arch of Peace

The Arco della Pace, made of marble and topped with horse-drawn statues, is an impressive arch that’s part of Porta Sempione, one of Milan’s old city gates.

The arch was built under Napoleon’s rule to echo the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

Visit in the evening when the arch is beautifully lit.

6. The Last Supper Portrait

Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper is one of the most famous works of art and most reproduced paintings in the world.

You can find it on the wall of the dining room of the former Dominican convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie.

But, as this is one of the most popular things to see in Milan, you will have to book this well in advance, as there are always long waiting lists.

You can book skip-the-line tickets and guided tours here.

7. Navigli District

The Navigli District is definitely something not to miss in Milan.

It’s a neighborhood known for its canals and aperitivos near Porta Genova station. 

There are two canals here: Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese. Both of them are surrounded by different types of cafés, restaurants, design shops, art galleries, etc.

You can go on a boat tour along the canals (the Naviglio Grande being the most scenic), or just walk around and explore the small shops, cafes, restaurants, and the many art studios and galleries that fill the cobblestone streets.

It is a charming district where you can go for a nice peaceful walk away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. And it’s a lovely place to watch the sunset from as well.

Every last Sunday of the month they have a market here that’s worth checking out.

Tip: check out this aperitivo tour if you love trying different food while exploring some of the best parts of Milan

8. Teatro alla Scala

Teatro alla Scala is one of the leading opera and ballet theaters in the world, which was inaugurated on August 3rd, 1778.

It’s a beautiful theater! If you like opera or ballet I’d definitely recommend checking what’s playing when you are visiting Milan.

But if you don’t, you can also book a tour of the theater and its museum.

9. Cimitero Monumentale

Cimitero Monumentale is one of the largest monumental cemeteries.

It is located near Garibaldi station, just a short distance from the city center.

The grave tombs at this burial show a glimpse of, and are known for, their Italian artistic styles.

This cemetery is huge! It’s like an open-air museum. People usually spend about an hour here, and it’s free to enter.

10. Casa Galimberti

Beautiful Art Nouveau style architectural buildings decorated with colorful paintings and iron balconies.

This palace was designed and created by Giovanni Battista Bossi between 1903-1905.

You might not find this in every travel guide as a must see in Milan, but I would definitely say it is something not to miss in Milan, especially if you are near Porta Venezia station.

Take a closer look at the intricate details on the balconies and doors. Each panel tells a story, and locals often stop to admire the artwork. Early mornings are the best time to go here, to enjoy it without crowds.

11. Bosco Verticale

Known as the vertical forest, these unique tree-lined residential towers are award-winning buildings located in the Porto Nuova district near Garibaldi station.

If you are in Milan, you have to check these out!

12. Spontini Pizza for Some Incredible Pizza

A must do in Milan, and in any place in Italy, is, of course, trying the best pizza!

Located on Via Santa Radegonda, this is the best pizza I’ve had in Milan’s city center.

It’s perfect to take away and eat on the steps outside the Duomo, watching the hustle and bustle of the city.

How to Explore Milan – Public Transport in Milan

I suggest using public transport in Milan. It is easy to get around this way and so much cheaper (and often quicker) than using taxis.

Prices for the 1 or 3-day passes are reasonable and are valid for all buses, trams, and subways. Just remember to validate your ticket in the machine as soon as you step on the bus or tram.

Also, tickets cannot be purchased on trams or buses. I learned this the hard way as I couldn’t understand what the tram driver was saying to me when I asked him for a ticket. He eventually signaled to me to come on anyway and shortly after I received a fine from the ticket inspectors due to the language barrier.

You can buy tickets from a newsagent shop, at metro station vending machines, at tobacconists, and through the ATM Milano Official App.

And, thankfully, nowadays contactless bank cards can be used directly at metro turnstiles and on buses and trams equipped with card readers.

Tip: if you are coming to Milan and are planning to visit some of the main attractions, you can buy this Milan City Pass. It gives you free entrance to museums, discounts at shops and restaurants, and a ticket to use Milan’s public transport.

Final Thoughts About What Not to Miss in Milan

Milan’s famous landmarks, such as the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and The Last Supper, are definitely worth seeing, but the city really comes alive when you wander through its neighborhoods and discover local cafés, hidden courtyards, and charming streets.

A stroll around Brera, along the Navigli canals, or in Parco Sempione will give you a true feel for Milanese life.

Here Are a Few Final Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit:

• Check local events: Keep an eye on sites like YesMilano or local event calendars for exhibitions, concerts, and markets while you’re in town.
• Try local eats: Even a short walk from the main sights, you’ll find fantastic trattorias and cafés.
• Wear comfy shoes: Milan is very walkable, but some streets are cobbled.
• Plan a little wandering time: The best discoveries often happen when you explore without a strict plan.
• If you’re visiting Milan in winter: read my article about winter in Milan with specific tips for things to do in Milan in winter, including around Christmas time.

Mix the iconic sights with your own neighborhood adventures, and you’ll leave with a real sense of Milan.

Enjoy exploring this stylish Italian city!

Also Read:

• Interview About Expat Life in Milan
• An Insider’s Guide to Pavia – A Perfect Day Trip From Milan
• What to See & Do in Rome on a Short Visit
• Things to Know Before You Visit Vatican City
• The Best Small Towns to Visit in Italy
• 10 Most Beautiful Places in Sicily to Visit
• Where to Stay in Puglia, Southern Italy

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