Visiting Milan
Art & Museums
Whether you’re into classical masterpieces, contemporary art, or the magic of opera, Milan has something special for every art lover. Here’s our top list:
Duomo di Milano
No visit starts without the Duomo—one of Europe’s most majestic Gothic cathedrals and the true icon of the city. After exploring the interior, head up to the rooftop terraces for a close-up view of the spires, stone-carved details, and the golden Madonnina watching over Milan.
Official website: https://www.duomomilano.it/en/
Museo del Novecento
Lovers of modern and contemporary art can’t miss this gem, just a few steps from the Duomo. The museum takes you through Italian art of the 20th and 21st centuries—Futurism, Conceptual Art, installations and more. Over 300 works await you.
Official website: https://www.museodelnovecento.org/
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Right across from the museum, step into Milan’s elegant heart: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a grand 19th-century arcade that connects Piazza Duomo to Piazza Della Scala. Lined with historic cafés and luxury boutiques, it’s perfect for a stylish stroll.
Teatro alla Scala
Opened in 1778, this is one of Europe’s most renowned opera houses. Catch a performance or book a guided tour to explore its backstage secrets and rich history.
Official website: https://www.teatroallascala.org/en/index.html
Pinacoteca di Brera
Among Italy’s most visited museums, this gallery is home to masterpieces of Italian and European art—like The Kiss by Francesco Hayez. The building also houses the Accademia di Belle Arti, the Biblioteca Braidense, and even the Orto Botanico: a cultural and natural hub.
Official website: https://pinacotecabrera.org/en/
Cimitero Monumentale
Yes, it’s a cemetery, but one filled with sculptural and architectural treasures—essentially an open-air museum. A blend of Gothic, Romanesque and Byzantine styles makes this an unexpectedly moving and beautiful place to explore.
Official website: https://monumentale.comune.milano.it/
Castello Sforzesco
Seven centuries of history make this castle one of Milan’s key landmarks. Once home to the powerful Sforza dynasty, it now hosts several museums, impressive art collections, and historical archives.
Official website: https://www.milanocastello.it/web/castello-sforzesco
Cenacolo Vinciano
During the late 15th century, artists like Bramante and Leonardo da Vinci called Milan home. Between 1494 and 1498, Leonardo painted The Last Supper—a masterpiece like no other—on the wall of the refectory of the Convento di Santa Maria delle Grazie.
Official website: https://cenacolovinciano.org/en/
Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio
One of the oldest churches in Milan, second in importance only to the Duomo. A key monument of early Christian and Romanesque architecture, built by Milan’s patron saint and bishop, Ambrogio.
Official website: https://www.basilicasantambrogio.it/
Palazzo Morando
This 18th-century palace houses Milan’s Costume and Fashion collection, featuring garments and accessories from the 17th century to the early 2000s—a stylish journey through Milanese identity.
Official website: https://www.comune.milano.it/web/palazzo-morando
Neighbourhoods to Explore
Every neighborhood in Milan tells its own unique and fascinating story—from bohemian corners to cutting-edge zones, and historic districts that preserve the elegance and traditions of the past. Here are some of the city’s most iconic areas:
Brera
The artistic soul of Milan, thanks in large part to the presence of the Accademia. Brera is the city’s bohemian heart—full of art galleries, artisan shops and refined restaurants. With its “Parisian” charm, it’s perfect for a romantic evening stroll.
Porta Venezia
Milan’s rainbow district and a symbol of diversity and inclusion. It combines lively nightlife with old-world elegance, thanks to majestic Liberty-style buildings. A hidden gem? Villa Invernizzi, home to a now-famous colony of pink flamingos.
Isola
A young, buzzing neighbourhood that has become one of Milan’s trendiest spots. Colorful murals, underground venues, a mix of old and new buildings—it’s a hotbed of creativity. Foodies: don’t miss the local indoor market!
Porta Nuova
This is futuristic Milan at its finest. Porta Nuova is a symbol of urban transformation, with modern skyscrapers, pedestrian-friendly plazas, and lush green spaces. The star of the show? The Bosco Verticale, a “home for trees that also hosts humans and birds,” as its architect puts it.
CityLife
Think cutting-edge architecture and urban luxury. CityLife has helped reshape Milan’s skyline, with striking towers designed by world-famous architects. Bonus tip: check out the CityLife Shopping District—the city’s newest retail complex.
Navigli
Milan’s romantic side lives here. The Navigli area is known for its charming canals and traditional case di ringhiera (balcony-linked buildings). Get lost in the alleys full of bars and restaurants—and don’t miss the Vicolo dei Lavandai, once a public laundry area by the canal.
Chinatown
A slice of the East in the heart of Milan. This culturally rich district is the perfect spot for exploring authentic flavors and bustling local markets. Must-visit: the Oriental Mall, a five-story complex showcasing the best of Asian culture.
NoLo
Short for “North of Loreto,” this is Milan’s up-and-coming creative district. With art spaces, trendy cafés and an ever-evolving vibe, NoLo is full of contagious energy. Need a break? Recharge at the leafy Parco Trotter.
Cinque Vie
The city’s oldest neighbourhood, dating back to Roman times. With cobblestone streets and artisan shops, this is where you’ll find the most authentic Milan. Highlights include the Museo Civico Archeologico and the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana, home to Renaissance treasures.
Porta Romana
Another hip and happening district where culture meets nightlife. Packed with theatres, cinemas, indie bookstores, gourmet restaurants and wine bars—Porta Romana is ideal for those who want to enjoy Milan with style. Don’t miss Bar Luce, designed by film director Wes Anderson inside the Fondazione Prada.
Green Spaces
After exploring Milan’s vibrant neighbourhoods or visiting its museums, even in a fast-paced city like this, it’s possible to take a breather surrounded by greenery. Whether it’s a hidden garden in the historic centre or a vast urban park, here’s a selection of peaceful spots where you can recharge your batteries.
Parco Sempione
Undoubtedly the city’s most famous park – Milan’s true green heart – located just behind the Castello Sforzesco. Ideal for walks, picnics, and relaxing with a view of the Arco della Pace.
Biblioteca degli Alberi (BAM)
With its 10 hectares of land and remarkable botanical collection, this is a one-of-a-kind example of a “contemporary garden” in Italy. The park also hosts a rich cultural programme throughout the year.
Giardini Indro Montanelli
An elegant park near Porta Venezia, featuring centuries-old trees, statues and fountains. It’s also home to the Museo di Storia Naturale and the Planetario – perfect for families and curious minds alike.
Parco Forlanini
A large park in the eastern part of the city, running alongside the Lambro River. Ideal for outdoor sports: you’ll find playgrounds, bowls courts, running tracks – and even a traditional farmhouse with animals.
Parco di Villa Litta
A hidden gem in the Affori district, in the north of Milan. The park stretches around a historic villa and offers shady pathways, ancient statues and a quietly charming atmosphere.
Giardini della Guastalla
A historic and elegant garden near the University of Milan. Compact and peaceful – just right for a romantic break or reading under the shade of century-old trees.
Parco Nord
An enormous green area (around 800 hectares) in the northern part of the city. Ideal for long walks, jogging, or simply breathing in some fresh air far from the traffic.
Parco delle Cave
Located in the western area of Milan, this park boasts a surprising landscape formed around former quarries. Lakes, meadows, birds, and community gardens: a side of Milan few tourists get to see.
Bosco in Città
A much-loved public park featuring woodlands, open fields, streams, and even a beekeeping area and orchard. It feels like the countryside, yet it’s only about 30 minutes from the city centre.
Parco di Trenno
Once separate from the city, this is now one of Milan’s largest parks and definitely the most suited to sports and leisure. It offers free-access sports facilities, running tracks, wide paths and open spaces.