Top Attractions in Milan

If you’re looking for ideas on what to do in Milan, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled a guide to show you the Top Attractions in Milan.

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Introduction to the Top Attractions in Milan

Milan, the capital of Lombardy and the 2nd biggest city in Italy, boasts a vibrant mix of famous works of art, historic castles, museums, and iconic theatres, all surrounded by great food and a modern lifestyle. Did you know the city’s historical center is entirely walkable, making it the perfect spot for a stroll?

As one of the world’s four fashion capitals, Milan is renowned for its designer labels. However, it has much more to offer beyond fashion. So, let’s look closer at Milan’s must-see sights and experiences.

Milan Cathedral

If you’re visiting Milan, you can see the breathtaking Duomo di Milano, one of Milan’s major attractions. This massive cathedral is Italy’s largest church and the third-largest in the world, with over 3,500 statues, 135 spires, and five bronze doors. It’s no wonder that it took over 500 years to complete! You can explore the cathedral, take the stairs, or lift to the rooftop for an unforgettable 360-degree city view. Piazza Duomo, the cathedral square, has always been the city’s cultural, historical, and political heart, making it a must-see for any tourist. From the terraces of the Duomo, you can appreciate the intricate details of the Gothic towers, arches, pinnacles, statues, and an incredible view. Want to avoid climbing the 200 steps? No problem. Take the lift up to the rooftop instead.

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Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

All the shopaholics know that shopping in Milan is one of the city’s must-do activities. But did you know that the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is the oldest shopping center in Italy and possibly even the world? It was established in 1877 and named after the first king of the Kingdom of Italy. The shopping center has two passages with glass roofs that cross into a central hall with a stunning glass dome. The top of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a remarkable feature of the shopping center, especially during the day or at night. The shopping center is decorated with thousands of lights and other beautiful Christmas decorations during Christmas time. Make sure to look at the mosaic floor as well, as it is unique and attractive.

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San Siro Stadium

Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, commonly known as San Siro, is a football arena in the San Siro district of Milan, Italy, which is the home of A.C. Milan and Inter Milan. It has a seating capacity of 80,018, making it one of the largest stadiums in Europe and the largest in Italy. That’s why we listed it among the Top Attractions in Milan. So, if you are a genuinely devoted football fan, visit the A.C. Milan and Internazionale football arena. You get to see all the essential places in the stadium with a tour, such as the changing rooms. There is a museum at the San Siro stadium and a separate museum for fans of A.C. Milan. It is called Casa Milan.

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Navigli

A few years ago, this district was still the hidden gem of Milan’s appeal; however, in recent years, it has most certainly become one of the major attractions in Milan. The Navigli area in Milan is a delightful location that used to be a Venice-like place without the sea. During the day, people can check out old palaces, markets, and crafts stores, while at night, they can savor open-air dining. Tourists can engage in water sports and biking, with exclusive city views available through water tours.

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The Last Supper by Leonardo Da Vinci

This next one is undoubtedly the city’s main attraction alongside its Duomo. One of Leonardo da Vinci’s most famous works is The Last Supper, a fresco painted using a dry technique on plaster. Commissioned by Ludovico il Moro before 1500, it can be found in the refectory of a monastery near the sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan. This masterpiece depicts Jesus’ Last Supper and is considered a hallmark of the Italian Renaissance. Despite its artistic significance, the work has suffered from poor preservation for centuries due to Leonardo’s experimental technique, which must be compatible with the environment’s humidity. As a result, it underwent an extensive restoration from 1978 to 1999, utilizing the most advanced techniques available. Viewing this magnificent work is a must-do activity in Milan, and it is impossible not to be captivated by its beauty.

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Castello Sforzesco

The Castello Sforzesco is a massive fortified complex near the city center of Milan, constructed in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan. Over the centuries, the Castello Sforzesco has undergone significant changes and modifications, becoming one of Europe’s most critical military fortresses during the 16th and 17th centuries. It now houses important museums and cultural institutions. The Castello Sforzesco is one of the largest castles in Europe, one of the most potent symbols of the city, and has a rich history. This fortress is perhaps not so appealing at first glance, but once you learn more about it, you quickly realize it is an unmissable sight in the city. That’s why we listed it as one of the Top Attractions in Milan to visit.

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Parco Sempione & Arco della Pace

The Arco della Pace is a grand entrance to the city decorated with horse sculptures on its roof. It stands on the border of Parco Sempione, which is not only known for its historical importance as it was built for Napoleon but also for its elegant park where tourists can unwind and get away from the city’s commotion. Furthermore, visitors can take a leisurely walk to Castello Sforzesco.

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Experience the magic of opera at the historic La Scala Theatre.

If you want to experience the culture in this city, you must do it by sharing the opera performance, which is one of the finest things to do in the city. Milan has a lot of cultural institutions, and one of the most celebrated ones is the Teatro alla Scala. It was founded in the late 18th century by Archduchess Maria Theresa and has been a hub for music and dance ever since. The lavish interior is a sight to behold; you can even glimpse it while visiting the theater’s museum. However, the real magic happens when you join the crowd for a night of music. The opera performances are particularly famous, although the theater also offers symphony concerts, recitals, ballets, and talks. So, are you ready to see some Verdi or Puccini masterpieces in their cradle? You must agree that this would be one of the Top attractions in Milan to experience, correct?

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Visit the Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio

One of the oldest churches in Milan, Italy, was built by Saint Ambrose. Though it has undergone multiple reconstructions and restorations due to bombardments, it now includes a walled courtyard and a covered arcade on both sides of the square. The church is also famous for the legend of the devil leaving his traces there.

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Brera art district

The Brera district in Milan is one of our favorite areas to explore. The colorful houses and cozy alleys are inviting; you can feel the neighborhood’s artistic energy. There are many exciting shops, studios, and boutiques to check out, and the dining options are fantastic. We highly recommend visiting Brera if you want a unique and charming spot in Milan.

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Get away to Lake Como.

Lastly, plan a day to discover the spectacular landscape of Lago di Como, one of Italy’s most beautiful lakes. By taking a train, you can quickly get to the scenic town of Como, located in one corner of the beautiful wishbone-shaped lake.

Once you arrive in Como, you can take a ferry to explore the lake and visit charming destinations in its center, such as Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio. So, if you need to make a day trip from the city, you should put this one-day trip on your list of the top attractions in Milan.

Note: For more ideas about what to visit in Milan, check out our related article about the best day trips from Milan.

When to Go to Milan

Milan experiences sunny and hot weather during the summer months (June to August), with daily temperatures averaging around 29°C. This time is the most popular for tourists, so booking your accommodation in advance is advised.

For those who prefer to avoid crowds, the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October are the best times to visit. The weather is still warm during these months, and you’ll escape the peak tourism season. In May, the average temperature is 22°C, while in October, it’s 18°C.

From November to March, temperatures in Milan drop considerably, and fog is common. These months are much quieter, making it an excellent time to visit for those who prefer a more peaceful experience. Daily highs hover around seven °C during this time.

If you’re a fan of shopping and fashion, Milan’s Fashion Week is a must-see event that occurs twice a year (autumn/winter and spring/summer). It’s a big deal, and the celebrations are legendary. However, booking your accommodations well in advance is advised as the city fills up and prices skyrocket during this time.

The conclusion of the Top attractions in Milan

Firstly, there are many more attractions to visit and experience, but there is not enough space. If you have experienced other highlights in this magnificent city, please share your ideas in the comments below.