City Guide

Milan Travel Guide

Italy

Milan, Italy's capital of fashion, design, and finance, offers a vibrant blend of historic architecture, artistic treasures, and contemporary city life. The magnificent Duomo di Milano stands at the heart of the city, while the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II showcases its architectural charm. Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper, Sforza Castle, and the historic Brera district reveal Milan's rich cultural heritage. Along the Navigli canals, lively cafés, the beloved aperitivo tradition, and fashionable streets capture the city's modern spirit. Combining centuries of history with creativity and innovation, Milan is one of Italy's most captivating urban destinations.

Must-See Places in Milan

Discover the landmarks, historic sites, natural highlights, and memorable places worth seeing in Milan.

Historical District

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a historic 19th-century shopping arcade connecting Piazza del Duomo with Piazza della Scala. Designed by Giuseppe Mengoni, the building is known for its iron-and-glass roof, large central dome, mosaic floors and symmetrical architecture. Today it houses luxury boutiques, cafés and restaurants and has become one of Milan’s most recognizable public spaces, closely associated with the city’s fashion and urban culture.

Luxury
Free
Cultural Landmark

Church

Santa Maria delle Grazie

Santa Maria delle Grazie is one of Milan’s most important Renaissance monuments and forms part of the complex housing Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. Built in the 15th century for the Dominican Order, the church was later expanded during the rule of Ludovico Sforza, with architectural additions associated with Donato Bramante. Leonardo’s The Last Supper is not located inside the church itself but in the former convent refectory next door, where timed reservations are required. The church and convent form a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Church
Renaissance
UNESCO

Art

La Scala Theatre

Teatro alla Scala is one of the world’s most renowned opera houses and performing arts venues. Opened in 1778 and designed by Giuseppe Piermarini, it became one of the leading centres of Italian opera, particularly during the 19th century. Works by composers including Verdi, Rossini and Puccini have been performed here, making the theatre central to Milan’s musical identity. Today it hosts opera, ballet and concerts and also includes a museum dedicated to the history of La Scala.

Ticketed
Music
Opera

Museum

Brera Art Gallery

The Pinacoteca di Brera is one of Italy’s leading art galleries and one of Milan’s principal art museums. Located inside the Brera Palace, its collection focuses particularly on Italian Renaissance and later painting. Works by artists such as Raphael, Caravaggio, Piero della Francesca, Mantegna, Bellini and Hayez are among the collection’s highlights. The museum stands at the heart of Brera’s historic artistic and cultural identity.

Ticketed
Museum
Art Gallery

Church

Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio

The Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio is one of Milan’s oldest and most historically significant churches. The original basilica was founded in the 4th century by Saint Ambrose, Bishop of Milan, while much of its present appearance dates from the 11th and 12th centuries. It is an important example of Lombard Romanesque architecture, characterized by its courtyard, brick façades, bell towers and historic interior. The presence of Saint Ambrose’s tomb also gives the basilica a central role in Milan’s religious identity.

Religious Site
Free

Things to Do in Milan

Discover activities, local experiences, and memorable events to enjoy while exploring Milan.

April

Salone del Mobile

Salone del Mobile is a prestigious fair held in Milan and considered one of the most important events in the global design and furniture industry. With exhibitions, new collections, and innovative design presentations, it creates a strong design atmosphere across the city.

Ticket May Be Required

February - March

Milano Fashion Week

Milano Fashion Week is a prestigious event held in Milan and regarded as one of the most important gatherings in the international fashion world. With runway shows, presentations, and industry events, it creates a strong fashion atmosphere across the city.

Ticket May Be Required

What to Eat & Drink in Milan

Discover local dishes, traditional flavors, and notable drinks associated with Milan.

Local Food

Risotto alla Milanese

Risotto alla Milanese is one of the best-known dishes of Milanese cuisine. It is prepared with Arborio rice, broth, butter, parmesan, and saffron. Known for its golden color from saffron and its creamy texture, it is one of the city’s classic specialties.