Choose from 55 Fun Things to Do in Lombardy
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10 Corso Como
Overview
10 Corso Como is one of Milan's trendiest addresses. Home to the Galleria Carla Sozzani art gallery, it also houses an ultra popular café, a fashion boutique, a roof garden, a restaurant, and a tiny hotel. If you want to see and be seen in Italy’s capital of chic, there is no better place.
The Basics
To discover the glamour of Milanese fashionistas, a visit to this trendy hub of shopping and socializing is a must. Stop by while seeing the sights on a Milan Segway tour, or as part of a hop-on-hop-off bus tour. The avant-garde complex has continued to grow over the years since it was opened by Italian gallerist Carla Sozzani in a former garage in 1990. Today, there are 10 Corso Como concept stores in a number of cities worldwide, including New York and Seoul.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Those interested in art and fashion will especially love this gallery and shopping center space.
- 10 Corso Como is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- The complex is often used as a venue for special events and fashion shows.
- The store and art gallery keep evening hours on Wednesday and Thursday.
How to Get There
Corso Como is set between Milan's historic city center and the Milano Porta Garibaldi train station, and is a short walk from the station.
When to Get There
The 10 Corso Como café is particularly popular for an evening cocktail (aperitivo). Though getting a table can be difficult, it's a great place to experience Milanese nightlife.
Sights on Corso Como
One of Milan's main thoroughfares, Corso Como has become a trendy area of Milan, home to the newly renovated Piazza Gae Aulenti, Eataly, Unicredit Tower (the tallest skyscraper in Italy), shops, restaurants, and cafés.
Address: Corso Como, 10, Milano 20154, Italy
Hours: Galleries & Shops: Daily 10:30am-7:30pm, Restaurant & Cafe: Daily 11am-1am
From $ 25
La Scala Opera (Teatro alla Scala)
Teatro alla Scala, one of the world’s greatest opera houses, has hosted some of Italy’s most famous opera and other performances. Located in downtown Milan, this 18th-century theater and cultural landmark—magnificently restored in 2004—seats many of its 2,000 spectators in elegant boxes adorned with gold leaf and red velvet.
The Basics
La Scala is an impressive sight whether or not you’re an opera or ballet aficionado. The building’s exterior may not be as remarkable as Milan’s Duomo, just a stone’s throw away, but a tour of its opulent interior is a must for any music lover. Along with the Duomo and Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, La Scala is one of the most popular attractions in Milan, so booking a skip-the-line tour is a must. Consider joining a small-group walking tour of Milan’s highlights with an expert guide to avoid long entry waits and to learn first-hand about the iconic sights’ fascinating history. If you would like to take a full tour of La Scala, you must visit with an official tour guide. These theater tours also include a visit to La Scala Museum, which houses a collection of costumes and set designs, musical instruments, portraits of actors and musicians, and an archive. Of course, nothing beats seeing a La Scala concert, ballet, or opera, including beloved works by Rossini, Puccini, and Verdi.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Without a performance ticket or guided theater tour, you can see the inside of the theater only by visiting La Scala Museum, which includes a quick peek into the auditorium through the third-level boxes when there is no rehearsal or performance.
- Purchase performance tickets in advance to ensure a seat.
- The theater and museum are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, though the guided theater tour is not.
- Large bags and backpacks must be checked into the cloakroom.
How to Get There
La Scala is located on Piazza della Scala in the heart of downtown Milan, just on the other side of the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II from the Duomo. The tram line 1 and yellow metro line both stop near the theater.
When to Get There
The La Scala performance calendar runs year-round. Theater tours are held on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday afternoons when there is no rehearsal or performance scheduled. The museum is open daily from 9am to 5:30pm with a few holiday and other closures; see the website for details.
The “Staircase Theater”
The word scala means “staircase” in Italian, but Teatro alla Scala was so named because it was built on the site where the Church of Santa Maria alla Scala once stood.
Address: Piazza della Scala, Milan 20121, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 14
Como-Brunate Funicular Railway (Funicolare Como-Brunate)
The historic single-track Como–Brunate Funicular Railway has been carrying passengers up and down the steep mountain slope between the lakeside city of Como and the village of Brunate since 1894. The 7-minute ride passes through a scenic stretch of countryside with sweeping views over Italy’s Lake Como as far as the Swiss Alps.
The Basics
Once powered by steam engine, the Como–Brunate Funicular Railway (Funicolare Como–Brunate) now runs with an electric motor and travels through a lengthy tunnel before emerging to panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding area, including Villa d'Este, Villa Erba, and Monte Rosa. If Brunate, perched 2,362 feet (720 meters) above Como, isn’t high enough for you, after exiting the cable car you can continue another 30 minutes along a rough mule track to San Maurizio and then take 140-plus steps to the top of the Volta lighthouse. Either buy a return ticket for the funicular back down to Como, or take one of the many hiking trails that wind their way down to the lakeshore. Scenic trips on the Como–Brunate Funicular Railway are included in many Como day trips from Milan and as part of small-group hikes from Como.
Things to Know Before You Go
- With views like these, you will definitely want to bring your camera.
- Kids love the dizzying, steep trip up and down the mountainside.
- If you are headed up the mountainside to hike, be sure to wear appropriate footwear and clothing, and bring plenty of water.
- The funicular is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The Como–Brunate cable car entrance is located at Piazza Alcide de Gasperi, about 10 minutes by bus from the railway station through the Como city center. From the bus terminal on Via Torno, it’s an easy 5-minute walk to the funicular. Lake Como (Lago di Como) is a popular day trip from Milan, the bustling capital of Lombardy.
When to Get There
The cable car runs all year, but the best time to visit the region is from late spring to early fall, when the countryside is lush and the high altitude offers a respite from the heat.
Como’s Main Sights
The city of Como sits on the shores of Lake Como and offers a number of interesting attractions. Those not to miss include Piazza Cavour; the Tempio Voltiano, a museum dedicated to scientist and inventor Alessandro Volta; and the neoclassical Villa Olmo.
Address: Piazza Alcide de Gasperi, 4, Como CO, Italy
From $ 69
Casa Milan
Opened in 2014, the striking Casa Milan is the headquarters of Milan’s leading football team, A.C. Milan, located just 10 minutes from the famous San Siro Stadium. Housed in a futuristic glass-fronted façade, embossed with the team’s red and black logo, the Casa Milan is the ultimate destination for AC Milan fans, home to a museum, a well-stocked souvenir shop and the Cucino Milanello restaurant.
The highlight for football enthusiasts is the Mondo Milan Museum, where interactive exhibitions and multi-media presentations take visitors on a journey through the triumphs and trials of the popular football club. The huge collection of memorabilia on display includes some rare and much-coveted items, and there’s also a Hall of Fame, Trophies Room and Ballon d'Or Winners Room to marvel over.
Practical Info
Casa Milan is located in the Portello district in northwest Milan and is open daily from 10am- 8pm (shop), 8am-8.30pm (restaurant) and 10am-7pm (museum). Adult admission to the museum at the time of writing is €18.
Address: Via Aldo Rossi, 8, Milano 20149, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 68
Bagatti Valsecchi Museum
A visit to the historic Bagatti Valsecchi house museum in Milan is a step back in time to when every Italian palazzo was a private home. As a bonus, it also houses a nice art collection.
The Bagatti Valsecchi Museum is in the Montenapoleone area of central Milan, and was once the home of the Bagatti Valsecchi brothers – Fausto and Giuseppe. They died in the early 1900s, and the palazzo stayed in the family until 1974, when one of Giuseppe's sons sold the palazzo to the region of Lombardy for use as a museum to house the brothers' impressive collection of decorative arts and paintings.
Among the items in the collection are furniture, tapestries, glassware, ivory, and ceramics. The paintings include works by Donatello and Bellini. The intention of the Bagatti Valsecchi Foundation was to create a reproduction of a 16th-century Italian nobleman's home, including period furnishings and décor.
Practical Info
The Bagatti Valsecchi Museum is located near the Montenapoleone Metro stop on Via Gesu. It's open Tuesday-Sunday from 1 to 5:45pm, and tickets are €9 for adults, €6 for seniors and children ages 6-14 (children 5 and under are free). The museum is also €6 for everyone on Wednesdays.
Address: Via Gesù, Milan 20121, Italy
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 1-5:45pm
Admission: Adults €9, Seniors and Children (6-14) €6
From $ 12
Colonne di San Lorenzo
Milan is known for its opera, fashion, and banking – not its ruins. And yet the city has Roman ruins – including the Colonne di San Lorenzo. These well-preserved ruins all date from the 2nd century, when they were part of a Roman building (experts aren't sure whether it was a bath house or a temple). They were likely moved to their current location in the 5th century.
The 16 columns line one side of a piazza in front of the fifth-century Basilica di San Lorenzo, one of Milan's oldest churches. They were brought to the piazza when the church was complete.
Practical Info
The Colonne di San Lorenzo are on Corso di Porta Ticinese, southwest of the Duomo in the historic city center.
Address: Corso di Porta Ticinese, Milan, Italy
From $ 39
Brunate
Not all visits to Lake Como are about waterfront towns – a trip up into the hills over the lake to Brunate offers spectacular views. The small hilltop town overlooks not just Lake Como, but the town of Como itself. The two are roughly 1,600 feet apart, so while you won't be dipping your toes in the lake from Brunate, you'll be enjoying views that the people in Como can't see.
The Como-Brunate Funicular linking the towns was built in 1894, but you can keep going up even after you reach Brunate – climb the steps to the 1920s lighthouse for an even better view.
Practical Info
There is a steep path between Como and Brunate, but the best way to get from the lower to the upper town is by the funicular. The funicular costs €2.90 one-way, €5.25 round-trip for adults (€1.90/€3.20 for children), and runs every half-hour from mid-April through mid-September 8am-12am, and only until 10:30pm the rest of the year.
Address: Brunate, Italy
From $ 106
Castello Sforzesco
Il Castello Sforzesco (Sforza Castle) is a medieval fortress built by the Visconti dynasty that became home to Milan’s ruling Sforza family in 1450. Stark and domineering, the historic brick castle has massive round battlements, an imposing tower overlooking the central courtyard and surrounding Parco Sempione gardens, and defensive walls designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Today the castle houses a number of world-class museums and galleries.
The Basics
The castle is among the most important cultural sights in Milan, together with the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie—where Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper is located—and the Cathedral. Lines can be long to enter its museums, so book a skip-the-line tour of this vast complex to avoid a delay at the entrance or join a walking tour of the city that includes stops at some of its most famous monuments and a visit to the castle. Certain parts of the castle, including the crenellated ramparts and the covered "Ghirlanda" passage, are only accessible by private tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If traveling with kids, consider taking a family-friendly tour of the castle and its museums. Kids especially enjoy the Museum of Musical Instruments and surrounding gardens.
- Il Castello Sforzesco is open every day of the week, but the museums inside are closed on Mondays.
- The castle is accessible to visitors with limited mobility.
- Large bags and backpacks must be checked in the cloakroom at the entrance.
How to Get to There
Castello Sforzesco is in Piazza Castello on the edge of central Milano, which can be reached from Piazza del Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II by following Via Dante. The three nearest underground metro stops are Cairoli, Lanza, and Cadorna FN.
When to Get There
The museums offer free admission every Tuesday afternoon and the first Sunday of each month, so they’re very busy during those times. Avoid the hassle of the crowds by visiting on weekdays or Saturday.
Artistic Highlights in the Castello Sforzesco Museums
The Museum of Ancient Art holds a number of statues by Michelangelo, including the famous Pieta Rondanini. Upstairs, the Pinacoteca is home to a collection of paintings by masters including Titian and Bellini, while the adjacent Museum of Applied Arts and Museum of Musical Instruments are also worth a visit. In addition, there are excellent Egyptian and Prehistoric collections in this large museum complex.
Address: Piazza Castello, Milan 20121, Italy
Hours: Castle open daily from 7am - 7:30pm. Castle museums open Tues-Sun from 9am - 5:30pm.
Admission: Free. Admission to museums: € 5
From $ 25
Da Vinci's Last Supper (Il Cenacolo)
Each day, Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper (Il Cenacolo)" draws hundreds of art-loving visitors to the unassuming refectory of the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie for just 15 minutes with the painting (Yes, it's that good). Milan's famous 15th-century wall mural may be one of the most famous (and regulated) artworks in Italy—to see it, you must book entrance tickets in advance or sign up for a guided Milan city tour.
The Basics
"The Last Supper" is incredibly popular, and it can be very difficult to get access. In order to preserve the mural, a maximum of 25 to 30 visitors are allowed to view the painting at a time, and only for 15 minutes. Fortunately, tours can help you lock in those high-demand tickets and customize your experience—spend a day touring Milan's must-see sites with an art historian tour guide, or opt for an expedited tour with skip-the-line "Last Supper" access. Most tours that visit the iconic painting also stop at Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco), Milan's Cathedral (Duomo), and the UNESCO-listed Santa Maria delle Grazie Church, thought to be designed by Renaissance architect Bramante. Other popular stops include the 16th-century Church of San Maurizio, the renowned Teatro La Scala opera house, and the glamorous shopping arcade of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
Things to Know Before You Go
How To Get There
The Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie is located on the western outskirts of central Milan between metro stations Cadorna Triennale and Conciliazione. It's a 15-minute walk or a quick taxi ride from the Duomo, but you can also choose a tour that provides round-trip transportation from your Milan hotel.
- Skip the line with a priority access ticket that allows you to head right into the showroom.
- While walking tours are the most popular way to see "The Last Supper," you can also explore the city by rickshaw, bicycle, or vintage tram.
- From the church, Sforza Castle is a 15-minute walk down Corso Magenta, and Teatro alla Scala is about a 20-minute walk east on the same road.
The Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie is located on the western outskirts of central Milan between metro stations Cadorna Triennale and Conciliazione. It's a 15-minute walk or a quick taxi ride from the Duomo, but you can also choose a tour that provides round-trip transportation from your Milan hotel.
When to Get There
There are always visitors waiting their turn to see this hard-to-visit Renaissance masterpiece. Plan ahead to secure your ticket, and consider booking skip-the-line entry to walk in ahead of the queues.
Address: Piazza della Maria delle Grazie 2, Milan, Lombardy, Italy
Hours: Tues-Sun 8:15am-7pm. Closed Mondays, plus Jan 1, May 1, Dec 25
Admission: €10
From $ 25
Church of Santa Maria presso San Satiro
Many churches in Italy are built on older worship sites. What makes the Church of Santa Maria presso San Satiro in Milan different is that the old church was incorporated into the new one, both in design and name.
The original church on this site was dedicated to San Sitiro (Saint Satyrus), built in the 9th century. In the late 15th century, the church was also dedicated to Mary. The name "Church of Santa Maria presso San Satiro" indicates that the new church was "staying with" (presso) the old one.
When the church got its additional dedication, it also got a bit of a redesign. The artist Bramante played a role in the renovation. One of the most interesting pieces of artwork at the church is Bramante's wonderful trompe l'oeil behind the altar; it looks like there's a series of columns that recedes into the distance, but it's just paint.
Practical Info
The Church of Santa Maria presso San Satiro is near Milan's Duomo, and it's open Monday-Saturday from 9:30am-5:30pm, and on Sundays from 2pm-5:30pm. Admission is free.
Address: Via Torino, 17-19, Milano 20123, Italy
Hours: Mon-Sat 9:30am-5:30pm, Sun 2pm-5:30pm
From $ 73
Franciacorta Outlet Village
Milan is famous for its fashion and design, and the Franciacorta Outlet Village is one of the largest and most popular outlet centers outside Lombardy’s cosmopolitan capital. Browse Italian and international brands at the more than 70 retailers offering deep discounts off retail prices.
The Basics
With dozens of stores offering discounts of up to 70 percent, the Franciacorta Outlet Village makes an excellent day trip from Milan, Verona, or Bergamo for travelers seeking great deals. You can visit independently or join a shopping tour, some of which include a stop for wine tasting in the famed Franciacorta wine country or a visit to nearby Lake Garda (Lago di Garda) and the picturesque town of Sirmione.
Things to Know Before You Go
- All the stores at the Franciacorta Outlet Center accept credit cards and euros.
- The outlet complex houses several restaurants and cafés.
- For a break from shopping, the complex has a beauty salon and spa.
- A number of stores for children and an outdoor play area are on-site.
- The outlet center is entirely accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Franciacorta Outlet Village is located at Piazza Cascina Moie in Rodengo-Saiano, just over an hour outside Milan. Round-trip shuttle service runs daily from the Largo Cairoli meeting point, outside the Cairoli metro station, in Milan. The nearest train and bus stations are in Brescia, 9 miles (14 kilometers) away. Free parking is available on-site.
When to Get There
The outlet center can be very crowded on weekends and holidays, so visiting during the weekdays is the best option. Italy has two month-long sale seasons, beginning January 1 and July 1; time your visit during the annual sales for even better bargains.
Brands at the Franciacorta Outlet Village
The shopping center is home to branded boutiques and factory outlet shops for famous names including Calvin Klein, Guess, Pinko, North Sails, Nike, Adidas, and the North Face.
Address: Piazza Cascina Moie 1/2, Rodengo Saiano, Lombardy, Italy, Italy
From $ 23
Brera
Milan boasts a number of trendy neighborhoods thick with hip bars, restaurants, and clubs. Of these, the Brera district—a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets lined with boutiques and cafés near the Duomo in the city center—is perhaps the most beautiful thanks to its laid-back pace and old-world charm.
The Basics
Brera is one of the most fashionable neighborhoods in Milan for a before-dinner aperitivo and a great place to experience Milan’s excellent food and wine scene, so consider joining a small-group food tour or wine tasting. Food walking tours are also available in Brera.
In addition to strolling through Brera and enjoying the scene, you can visit the neighborhood’s main attraction: the famous Brera Art Gallery (Pinacoteca di Brera), one of Italy’s most important museums, with works by Botticelli, Raphael, Hayez, Titian, Caravaggio, Tintoretto, Piero della Francesca, Rembrandt, Rubens, and Andrea Mantegna. The designer shopping district Quadrilatero d’Oro, where the elegant Milanese head to update their wardrobes, is also nearby.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Milan’s Brera neighborhood is one of the most photogenic in the city, so be sure to bring your camera.
- This area is best explored on foot; choose comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
- Brera is paved and well maintained, and is easily managed with a wheelchair or stroller.
How to Get There
Brera is right in the center of Milan, an easy walk north from the Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Milan itself is well connected by train to Venice, Florence, and Rome.
When to Get There
The Brera neighborhood is most vibrant in summer, when cafés spill onto the sidewalks and make for an excellent place to do some serious people-watching. During the day, the main attractions are the area’s boutiques and museum; by night, most gather here for a drink or meal.
Milan Food Tours
The cosmopolitan city of Milan may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about Italian cuisine. So it may be surprising to discover that the city is known both for its fashion and its food, with a variety of traditional dishes rooted in the area’s history and a thriving up-and-coming contemporary food scene, especially in Brera. Consider taking a food-themed walking tour through the neighborhood to experience the city’s gourmet side for yourself.
Address: Italy
From $ 25
Bramante Sacristy
While many travelers visit the adjacent Santa Maria delle Grazie church—home of da Vinci’s fresco The Last Supper—the Bramante Sacristy is an often-overlooked gem. Designed by architect Donato Bramante, the sacristy features a vaulted ceiling painted by da Vinci and exhibits on the inventor’s Codex Atlanticus.
The Basics
The Bramante Sacristy and Santa Maria delle Grazie church are connected by a cloister and both feature imposing architecture. In the sacristy, you can admire the ceiling painted with golden stars, peruse da Vinci’s sketches and notes, and stroll through the adjoining Cloister of Frogs—a peaceful space with a fountain and flower-lined walls. It’s possible to visit the Bramante Sacristy on some Milan city tours, which often include skip-the-line tickets to view The Last Supper.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bramante Sacristy is a must-see for art and architecture lovers.
- Tickets to the Bramante Sacristy do not include a visit to The Last Supper, so arrange tickets to both separately or with a combination ticket.
- Avoid long lines to Bramante’s complex and da Vinci’s masterpiece with skip-the-line tickets.
How to Get There
Take the M1 Metro Line to the Milan Cathedral (Duomo), and walk five minutes to the Bramante Sacristy. Alternatively, you can take tram 2, 3, 12, 14, or 16 to the Milan Cathedral stop.
When to Get There
The Bramante Sacristy is open daily, with limited hours on Mondays. Peak season in Milan and Italy is June, July, and August. Visit the city during the shoulder months to avoid crowds.
Why Was the Bramante Sacristy Built?
The Duke of Milan, Ludovico il Moro, commissioned the Bramante Sacristy and The Last Supper in the Santa Maria delle Grazie. When the Sforza family came into power, the duke commissioned two great artists to expand the complex, which would become the ornately decorated mausoleum for the Sforza family.
Address: via Caradosso, 1, Milan 20123, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 80
Arch of Peace (Arco della Pace)
The Arch of Peace is an arch of celebration in Milan, Italy. Originally called the Arch of Triumph, it was built in the early 19th century to honor Napoleon's victories, although it was not completed. Several years later, under Austrian rule, construction resumed in a few different phases and was finally completed as the Arch of Peace in 1838. The arch marks the place where the Strada del Sempione enters Milan. This road, which is still in use today, connects Milan with Paris.
It was built using marble from the Swiss Alps, and at the top visitors can see a bronze chariot with six horses known as the Victories on Horseback. The arch was designed with a large central passageway and two smaller ones based on the Arch of Septimius Severus in the Roman Forum. It's decorated with Corinthian columns and various sculptures, including reliefs that depict events in Italian history from the time after Napoleon's rule.
Practical Info
The Arch of Peace is located at Piazza Sempione. To get there take the metro to Cadorna or Lanza.
Address: Piazza Sempione, Milan, Lombardy 20154, Italy
From $ 35
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
In the fashion capital of Italy, the soaring, glass-domed Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade never goes out of style. Started in 1877, Europe’s oldest shopping mall connects the Milan Duomo to Piazza di Marino and the La Scala Opera House (Teatro alla Scala) by way of a bright and airy, four-story center lined with busy restaurants and shops. Come for the Neoclassical architecture, stay for the brands and fresh baked panzerotti.
The Basics
Inside the galleria, you’ll find boutiques from high-end retailers such as Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, as well as some of the most lauded and historic cafes in Milano, including Biffi and Zucca’s Bar. Many tours combine a visit to the arcade with stops at popular city landmarks such as the Milan Duomo, Castello Sforzesco, and Piazza Mercanti, while others include a skip-the-line ticket to view Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper.’ Explore the area on a walking tour or by bike, Segway, or historic tram—most city tours last about three hours. Nearby attractions include a monument to Leonardo da Vinci in Piazza della Scala, the Leonardo3 Museum with its working models of the Renaissance artist's designs, and the museum exhibit at the La Scala Theater, which displays costumes and set designs from throughout the years.
The Basics
Inside the galleria, you’ll find boutiques from high-end retailers such as Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, as well as some of the most lauded and historic cafes in Milano, including Biffi and Zucca’s Bar. Many tours combine a visit to the arcade with stops at popular city landmarks such as the Milan Duomo, Castello Sforzesco, and Piazza Mercanti, while others include a skip-the-line ticket to view Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper.’ Explore the area on a walking tour or by bike, Segway, or historic tram—most city tours last about three hours. Nearby attractions include a monument to Leonardo da Vinci in Piazza della Scala, the Leonardo3 Museum with its working models of the Renaissance artist's designs, and the museum exhibit at the La Scala Theater, which displays costumes and set designs from throughout the years.
Things to Know Before You Go
How To Get to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
The southern entrance of the galleria is located off Piazza del Duomo, adjacent to the cathedral and its northern entrance off Piazza della Scala. Strolling through the galleria is a great way to get from the La Scala Opera House to Milan’s Duomo. The closest metro stop is for the Duomo, right in front of the galleria.
When to Get There
While most shops inside the galleria are open from 9am to 7:30pm, the galleria itself is open 24 hours. Check out all Piazza Duomo attractions after dark on an evening tour of Milan’s highlights that includes a beautiful view of the illuminated city from atop the Duomo.
- If you’re in it for the fashion, book a shopping-centric tour to explore the city’s stylish fashion district.
- Hungry? You'll find Milanese fare at the fanciful Il Salotto restaurant inside the galleria and Grom gelateria around the corner on Santa Margherita.
- If you're staying in Florence, Rome, or Venice but want to visit Milan, book a full-day or multi-day trip to the city.
- It’s possible to pair a Milan city highlights tour with day trips in Turin or Lake Como.
How To Get to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
The southern entrance of the galleria is located off Piazza del Duomo, adjacent to the cathedral and its northern entrance off Piazza della Scala. Strolling through the galleria is a great way to get from the La Scala Opera House to Milan’s Duomo. The closest metro stop is for the Duomo, right in front of the galleria.
When to Get There
While most shops inside the galleria are open from 9am to 7:30pm, the galleria itself is open 24 hours. Check out all Piazza Duomo attractions after dark on an evening tour of Milan’s highlights that includes a beautiful view of the illuminated city from atop the Duomo.
Address: Piazza del Duomo, Milan 20121, Italy
Hours: Daily: 9am–10pm; some shops open between 2pm–4pm and close 9pm.
Admission: Free
From $ 36
Fidenza Village
Italians love to shop and they love high fashion, but that doesn't mean they always love paying top prices. Shop like they do at the Fidenza Village outlet shopping center near Parma.
Fidenza Village opened in 2003 and has more than 100 boutique shops. You'll be able to browse the selections for brands such as Versace, Missoni, Armani, Diesel, Dolce & Gabbana, Valentino, and Furla. It's located in the Emilia-Romagna region not far from the city of Parma, and the design of the outdoor shopping center is reportedly meant to evoke some of Giuseppe Verdi's opera sets.
Practical Info
Fidenza Village is right on the A1 Autostrada, one of Italy's main highways, and there is train service to the town of Fidenza. You can catch the shuttle from Fidenza's train station to the outlet center, or you can even get a daily shuttle that runs from Milan right to the outlet center (a one-way ticket on the shuttle costs €20). The shopping center is open daily from 10am-8pm.
Address: Italy
Hours: 10am-8pm
From $ 23
La Triennale Museum
La Triennale Museum explores the history of Italian design, highlighting innovative works in furniture and industrial design, architecture, and decorative arts. Fittingly located in Milan (Italy’s design capital), the museum lies within the Palazzo dell’Arte—a venue originally built for the Triennale decorative arts show.
The Basics
One of the Palazzo dell’Arte’s best-known exhibitions, La Triennale Museum is a fascinating collection of everyday objects made to resemble art, and vice versa. Also in the same building is the Design Library (with thousands of books, magazines, and photographs available for reference) and the Teatro dell'Arte (a performance space for music, theater, and dance).
The MilanoCard and Milan Pass include free or discounted admission to the museum, along with other city highlights such as La Scala and the Duomo terraces. Many hop-on hop-off city bus tours stop at La Triennale Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- La Triennale Museum is a must-see for design and architecture fans.
- A café, a pizzeria, and a restaurant with a Michelin-starred chef are located on-site.
- The entire museum is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- There is free Wi-Fi on-site.
How to Get There
La Triennale is located in the middle of Parco Sempione, the largest park in central Milan, between Sforzesco Castle (Castello Sforzesco) and the Arch of Peace (Arco della Pace). To get there by public transit, take the red or green metro line to Cadorna or city bus 61 to the Triennale stop.
When to Get There
The Triennale Museum is one of Milan’s more popular museums, so try to visit first thing in the morning or in the evening (it stays open until 8:30pm). If you happen to be in town during the Triennale event, which occurs every three years, a visit is highly recommended. The next Triennale is in 2019 and runs from March to September.
Design is Everywhere
From the building’s architecture and the exhibitions on display to the chairs at the café, everything at La Triennale revolves around design. Upon entry, one of the first things visitors see is a suspended bridge with overhead lighting. The on-site Agora Theatre, designed completely in wood from the cedars of Lebanon, hosts design-related events and performances.
Address: Viale Emilio Alemagna, Milan 20121, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 16
Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio
The Romanesque Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio (Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio) is dedicated to Milan's patron saint, St. Ambrose, who founded the church in the fourth century while bishop of Milan. The saint’s remains lay beneath the stunning ninth-century Golden Altar, a masterpiece of gold, gilded silver, precious stones, and enamel. The basilica’s unique architecture makes it a must-see.
The Basics
The Basilica of Saint Ambrogio is among Milan's most important churches, along with the soaring Duomo and Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. Many Milan city tours include a visit to all three along with other attractions like the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Pinacoteca di Brera, Sforza Castle, and Navigli canal district. A hop-on hop-off bus tour, Milan Segway tour, and bicycle-powered rickshaw tour are fun and convenient ways to see Milan's attractions in one day.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The basilica was heavily bombed during World War II and has been extensively restored.
- The Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio is a place of worship, so attire covering shoulders and knees is recommended.
- The church is accessible to wheelchairs.
How to Get There
Milan (Milano) is the capital of Lombardy and one of the most important cities in northern Italy. It is well-connected by train to Florence, Rome, and Venice for an easy day trip, and the Basilica is located in the central Piazza Sant'Ambrogio, a short stroll west from the Duomo and served by the Sant'Ambrogio metro stop on the green line.
When to Get There
The basilica is open daily from 10am to 12pm and again from 2:30 to 6pm; on Sundays, it is closed to visitors in the morning.
Basilica of Sant’ Ambrogio Architecture
One of Milan's oldest churches, Sant’Ambrogio has undergone a number of renovations and embraces an eclectic mix of architectural styles. Partially rebuilt in the 11th century, the basilica has a squat Lombard facade and an atrium lined by two loggias with arches leading to the entrance; intricate Byzantine reliefs decorate the loggia capitals. Interior highlights include the apse mosaic of Christ, the paleo-Christian San Vittore in Ciel d'Oro chapel, and a number of carved pulpits and tombs, including the final resting place of Emperor Louis II. The church's entrance is flanked by two bell towers of differing heights that date from when two monastic orders were housed in the basilica, one in the northern cloister and another in the southern cloister.
Address: Piazza Sant'Ambrogio 15, Milan 20123, Italy
Hours: Varies
Admission: Free. Museum admission: € 2
From $ 25
Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore
Milan’s best-preserved 16th-century church, the Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore features frescoes by Bernardino Luini as well as the oldest pipe organ in the city. It is also home to the Archaeological Museum of Milan (Museo Archeologico di Milano), which displays artifacts from the Etruscans, Greeks, and Romans.
The Basics
Built in the early 1500s, San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is one of the oldest surviving structures in Milan. The church is attached to a Benedictine convent—the oldest convent in the city—which today houses the archaeological museum. The church is often featured on Milan history and art tours, which typically include a visit to da Vinci’s famous The Last Supper with skip-the-line admission. For a personalized experience, book a private tour to explore the ancient structures of Milan and the city’s hidden gems.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is a must-see for art and architecture lovers.
- Entrance to the church is free.
- Visitors with limited mobility can access the church through the archaeological museum.
- Groups of more than 10 must book at least two weeks in advance, and only two groups are allowed in the church at any given time.
How to Get There
San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is located at Corso Magenta 15. To get there by public transit, take the M1 metro line to Cadorna or Cairoli. Alternatively, take tram 16 to Corso Magenta via Nirone or Via Meravigli.
When to Get There
The church is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30am to 7:30pm. Milan gets very busy during the summer season, so it’s a good idea visit the church during the shoulder seasons due to its small size.
The “Sistine Chapel of Milan”
The opulent Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is one of the most revered churches in the city, along with the famous Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano). It was rebuilt during the Renaissance era, and many artists from the school of Leonardo were commissioned to paint its frescoes. Restored over 30 years into the 2010s, the church’s more than 40,000 square feet (4,000 square meters) of frescoes earned it the nickname the “Sistine Chapel of Milan.”
Address: Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, Milan, Italy
From $ 53
Ambrosiana Library & Picture Gallery
Milan’s historical Ambrosiana Library and Picture Gallery (Biblioteca-Pinacoteca Ambrosiana) was founded in 1618 by Cardinal Federico Borromeo. The cardinal donated more than 30,000 books, 15,000 manuscripts, and 12,000 pieces of artwork by famous artists such as Caravaggio, Raphael, Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci.
The Basics
The cultural mecca of the Ambrosiana Library was built to ensure the artists with talent and intellectuals would have a place to train. Today many tours and travelers visit the Ambrosiana Library and Picture Gallery (or Art Gallery) to experience and understand the importance of art in Italy during the Renaissance. The library famously displays Leonardo da Vinci’s Codex Atlanticus in a permanent exhibition, as well as the love letters of Lucrezia Borgia and the works of Petrarch.
Many Milan city tours include skip-the-line access to Vespino’s famous copy of da Vinci’s The Last Supper. If visiting independently, buy a combination ticket to the Ambrosiana Library and The Last Supper in advance for the best availability.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Ambrosiana Library and Picture Gallery is a must-visit for art and art history buffs.
- Audio guides are available in several languages for a small fee.
- The library and art gallery are fully accessible to persons with physical disabilities and can be independently accessed.
How to Get There
The library is located in the heart of Milan, on Piazza Pio XI. Take the M1 red line or M3 yellow line to the Duomo stop and walk about five minutes. You can also take tram 2 or 3 to the Duomo stop, or tram 12, 14, or 16 to the Orefici-Cantù stop.
When to Get There
The Ambrosiana Library and Picture Gallery is open 10am to 6pm Tuesday to Sunday, and is closed January 1, Easter Sunday, and December 25. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, when Last Supper tickets are more readily available.
The Legend of Lucrezia Borgia
Lucrezia Borgia was the Duchess of Ferrara during the late 1400s. A long lock of her golden hair is kept at the Ambrosiana, encased in glass and bronze, and has attracted many writers and poets passing through Milan. Legend has it that on All Souls’ night her ghost wanders the halls of the library in search of her hair. When found, she washes and combs it, which is why it remains silky and shiny to this day.
Address: Piazza Pio XI, 2, Milan 20123, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 16