Choose from 55 Fun Things to Do in Lombardy
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Piazza Fontana
A short walk from the Duomo, Piazza Fontana is one of the prettiest squares in Milan’s center, a quiet respite from the hubbub of nearby Piazza della Scala and Piazza del Duomo. The piazza is named for its 18th-century neoclassical central fountain, designed by Giuseppe Piermarini and is encircled by trees and benches.
The Basics
Milan is known for its urban hustle and bustle, but there are a number peaceful corners of the city worth exploring. If you need a few minutes to regroup during your walking or Segway tour of Milan's most famous sights like the Cathedral (Duomo) and Sforza Castle, take a quick detour to this lovely square where the pace is slower and the crowds thinner.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The square is a short walk from the Duomo and there is a wide pedestrian area encircling the center fountain, so perfect for cooling off in the shade for a few minutes with kids.
- There is a high curb around the central fountain area that may be hard to manage with a wheelchair or stroller.
- There are a number of cafés along the outside of the square that serve snacks and coffee.
How to Get There
Piazza Fontana is located just behind Milan’s Duomo, less than a 5-minute walk from the Piazza del Duomo.
When to Get There
The central fountain in Piazza Fontana has a number of water jets that are street level, ideal for cooling off hands and feet on a hot summer day.
A Violent Past
Piazza Fontana has a violent history that belies its peaceful atmosphere. In 1969, the square was the site of the bombing of the National Agrarian Bank, a domestic terrorist attack that resulted in 17 people killed and scores more injured. A plaque stands in the square in their honor.
Address: Milan, Italy
From $ 70

Palazzo Lombardia
While most palazzos are historic, Milan's Palazzo Lombardia is modern skyscraper. Completed in 2010, the building reigned as the tallest building in all of Italy at 529 feet (161 meters) tall for about a year until another Milan skyscraper was built in 2011.
Today, the Palazzo Lombardia serves as the headquarters for Lombardy's government. Even with that main administrative purpose, the ground level is open to the public with shops, restaurants, bars, and even an auditorium for performances.
Practical Info
Palazzo Lombardia, also called Regione Lombardia, is located on Via Melchiorre Gioia in the Porta Nuova district to the north of Milan's city center.
Address: Piazza Città di Lombardia, 1, Milano 20124, Italy
From $ 75

Quadrilatero d'Oro
The Quadrilatero d’Oro, or the Golden Rectangle, is the center of high fashion in Milan—a district filled with luxe boutiques, swanky bars, smart cafés, and cool restaurants. The windows boast the latest haute couture from high-end labels such as Chanel, Gucci, Armani, Versace, Valentino, Prada, and Dolce & Gabbana.
The Basics
The Quadrilatero d’Oro is located just north of the Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano) and is a beautiful area to walk around. For those without the deep pockets for these high-fashion stores, the window displays alone are worth a gander and give visitors a taste of the high life. Book a tour of Milan’s fashion district to learn more about the industry and how the city came to be a center for style and design.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Quadrilatero d’Oro is a must-visit for fashionistas.
- Wear comfortable shoes as most of the district’s streets are cobbled.
- Along with high-end shops, you can also find cinemas, bookstores, cafés, and department stores in the area.
How to Get There
The Quadrilatero d’Oro is located in the center of Milan, at the crossroads of Via della Spiga, Via Manzoni, Via Sant’Andrea, and Via Montenapoleone. To arrive by public transit, you can take the M3 metro line to Montenapoleone and walk three minutes down Via Montenapoleone. Alternatively, the district is a 15-minute walk from the Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
When to Get There
Many of the shops in the Quadrilatero d’Oro are open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30am to 7:30pm and on Mondays from 3:30pm to 7:30pm. Shoppers can score great deals on haute couture during Italy’s two national sales periods, in January and July.
The History of the Golden Rectangle
The brands might be new, but the streets surrounding the Quadrilatero d’Oro have always been a place of high society. Interspersed among the haute couture boutiques are old mansions once owned by Milanese nobility. Today the Poldi Pezzoli and the Bagatti Valsecchi Palazzo are house-museums and the Palazzo Morando is home to the city’s fashion museum.
Address: Via Montenapoleone, Via Manzoni and Via della Spiga, Milan 20100, Italy
From $ 43

Palazzo Te
Palazzo Te is a half-hour’s enjoyable walk from the heart of gorgeous Mantua, a wonderfully OTT summer palace built for Federico II Gonzaga between 1525 and 1535. Designed by Renaissance architect Giulio di Piero Pippi de’ Iannuzzi (known as Romano), the palace was Federico’s retreat from royal life, which centered on the Palazzo Ducale in Piazza Sordello. A seemingly endless series of lavishly adorned apartments were decorated by leading artists of the day and reflect his pet obsessions with love, horses and astrology, from statuesque equine portraits in the Hall of the Horses to alarmingly suggestive frescoes by Romano in the Chamber of Amor and Psyche.
The palazzo was also built to remind the great unwashed of Mantua who held political supremacy over them; the vast and fantastically ornate Sala dei Giganti (Room of the Giants) is a metaphor for Gonazga power, which sees Titan overthrown by the gods in a dazzling trompe l’oeil that creates the illusion that the ceiling is collapsing. Tucked away among the upper floors of Palazzo Te is the town’s Museo Civico, where displays include a jumble of armory, medals, coins and Egyptian artifacts along with Gonzaga family portraits by 20th-century artist Armando Spadini.
The extensive formal gardens include loggias, a shell-encrusted grotto, stuccowork cloisters, fish ponds and Federico’s pretty garden retreat.
Practical Info
Viale Te 13, Mantua. Admission adults €10, seniors €7, ages 12–18 and students €3.50, free for under 12. Open Mon 1pm–6pm; Tue–Sun
9am–6pm. Best reached on foot from central Mantua.
Address: Viale Te 13, Mantua, Lombardy 46100, Italy
Hours: Mon 1pm–6pm; Tue–Sun 9am–6pm
Admission: Adults €10, Seniors €7, ages 12–18 and students €3.50, free for under 12
From $ 127

Lake Orta
The northern Italian lakes are popular destinations, beloved for their placid waters and mountain scenery. Among these, however, sleepy Lake Orta is one of the least well known. Overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Lake Maggiore, and slightly farther from Milan, Lake Orta attracts visitors who want to get away from it all.
The Basics
One of the charms of picturesque Lake Orta is the tiny island at its center, Isola San Giulio, home to a centuries-old basilica and monastery. Ferries run to the island from the medieval village of Orta San Giulio, whose historical center and 16th-century town hall are worth exploring; climb the hill above town to visit the Sacro Monte chapels. A few small towns dot the shores of the lake, including Pettenasco and Omegna, but this isn't the tourist-centered experience of Lake Garda or Lake Como.
Lake Orta is a popular excursion from Milan or Stresa, and joining a Lake Orta day trip by coach is an easy way to experience the lake without the hassle of driving. Alternatively, consider taking a private tour of Orta San Giulio and San Giulio Island to get the most out of these out-of-the-way spots.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Day trips may include a boat trip to Isola San Giulio, so wear weather-appropriate clothing for the ferry ride.
- Some boats may be accessible to wheelchairs, but always confirm ahead of time.
- A day trip to the lake is a fun break for kids and can include a dip in the water and walks along the shore.
- Lake Orta and its island and towns are all very picturesque, so be sure to bring your camera.
How to Get There
The lake district in northern Italy is easy to reach from Turin, Milan, and Venice. Lake Orta is about an hour by car from Milan's Malpensa Airport; the train trip from Milan to Orta San Giulio requires a change in Novara and takes between two and three hours.
When to Get There
Italy's northern lakes are especially spectacular in the fall when the surrounding countryside explodes in autumn colors. Lake Orta also hosts the Poetry on the Lake festival each September, honoring the lake's history as a favorite destination for writers such as Lord Byron, Honoré de Balzac, and Robert Browning.
The Sacred Mountain
On the hilltop above the town of Orta San Giulio, the Sacro Monte religious complex comprises 20 chapels built between the 15th and 18th century. The chapels, scattered artfully around a wooded estate, form part of the UNESCO-listed Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardy.
Address: Milan, Italy
From $ 179

Porta Nuova
The Porta Nuova neighborhood in Milan was named after an historic monument in the area, the "new gate" built between 1810 and 1813. When compared to the ancient Roman gates that were once the entry points to the city of Milan, the Porta Nuova is considered quite new.
Located to the north of the city center, the Porta Nuova district underwent a revitalization after 2009 and today is used mainly for business. The skyline features several modern buildings and a large public park.
Practical Info
The Porta Nuova district is north of the historic center, with Stazione Garibaldi just to the west of the neighborhood. The Napoleonic gate is just south of the district on Via Monte Santo.
Address: Piazzale Principessa Clotilde, Milano, Italy
From $ 75

Piazza Gae Aulenti
One of the newest areas of construction in Milan is north of the city center near the Garibaldi train station, including the futuristic Piazza Gae Aulenti. The piazza, which opened in 2012 and is named after the Italian architect who designed Paris’ Musee d’Orsay, is surrounded by three new towers, including one that has the distinction of being Italy's tallest building. The piazza is circular in shape, and elevated above the surrounding ground level, with walkways running around and across its central pool and dancing water fountain displays.
A footbridge connects the piazza to the trendy Corso Como and its many restaurants and bars, making it a popular meeting place for locals, as well as a location for photo shoots. Take a photo walking tour of Milan to expertly capture Piazza Gae Aulenti's reflective surfaces and bring home a beautiful souvenir—or opt to visit as part of a city highlights tour, including admission to Leonardo Da Vinci's 'Last Supper,' as well as the Duomo.
Practical Info
The piazza is located in Milan's financial district, near the Garibaldi and Gioia metro stops. To get there, take the green or purple line to either stop, and walk toward Corso Como. The square is located below the huge Torre UniCredit skyscraper.
Look out for the nearby Bosco Verticale, or Vertical Forest, which consists of two apartment towers with trees growing on every balcony all the way to the top.
Address: Piazza Gae Aulenti, Milan, Lombardy 20124, Italy
From $ 46

San Siro Stadium (Stadio San Siro)
Milan hosts two top-division soccer (football) teams at San Siro Stadium, the largest in Italy. Also known as Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, the stadium was built in 1925 for the AC Milan team, and in 1947, the rival FC Internazionale team, known as Inter, also moved in. Today, up to 80,000 fans fill the stadium to watch live games.
The Basics
True footie fans can join a Milan football tour that includes a San Siro Stadium tour of the field, the team locker rooms, and the stadium museum dedicated to the history of both the Milan and Inter clubs. Many soccer-centric tours also stop at Casa Milan, the stylish AC Milan headquarters. Otherwise, hop on a city sightseeing bus and combine stops at the stadium and museum with visits to other city highlights such as the Duomo and La Scala. San Siro is also used for concerts and other large events, so there are non-football opportunities to see the stadium as well.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Watching a soccer game in Italy is an unforgettable experience, surrounded by chanting and cheering fans. Be sure to book tickets well in advance, as they quickly sell out for home games.
- Large bags and backpacks cannot be taken inside the stadium, and there is a security check where bags are searched for banned items.
- Inter players dress in blue and black, and Milan players in red and black.
- An official store sells team scarves and other souvenirs for fans.
How to Get There
San Siro, located on Piazzale Angelo Moratti in the San Siro neighborhood west of downtown Milan, is easy to reach on public transportation: take the metro purple line (M5) or bus/tram 49 and 16.
When to Get There
The soccer season runs from August to May. The stadium museum is open daily from 9:30am to 6pm, though the hours may change on game days.
Italy’s Soccer Clubs
Football is Italy’s national sport, and home matches of Milan’s two Serie A teams are the greatest highlights of the year for fans. Emotions run high at their derbies—especially when the teams are vying for a spot in the Champions League or World Cup. Nearly every Italian city and town has a home football team. Milan and Inter are the two teams based in Milan, while other famous big-city clubs are Roma, Lazio, Juventus, and Napoli.
Address: Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 16

Milan Duomo
Milan’s Duomo (duomo di Milano) is a much-loved symbol of the city. The most exuberant example of Northern Gothic architecture in Italy, the cathedral and its spiky spires and towers dominate Piazza del Duomo, the city's beating heart. One of the highlights of a visit to the cathedral is the view from the roof, where you can scope out Milan from the highest terrace surrounded by statues. On a clear day, it’s possible to see the Italian Alps.
The Basics
There are a number of tour options that visit the Duomo, with most ranging from one and three hours in length. A comprehensive tour of the cathedral includes a visit to its spacious interior with its stained-glass windows, the rooftop terraces, and the church’s archaeological area, an underground crypt holding the 16th-century tomb of St. Charles Borromeo. Other tour options combine a visit to the Duomo with a tour of the adjacent and famously beautiful Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade or entrance to Milan’s famous La Scala Opera House. For art lovers, a Duomo tour can be combined with a viewing of Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper, or a tour of the artist’s former vineyard. Those interested in the history and architecture of the church should visit with an expert tour guide who can offer detailed insight into the construction.
The Basics
There are a number of tour options that visit the Duomo, with most ranging from one and three hours in length. A comprehensive tour of the cathedral includes a visit to its spacious interior with its stained-glass windows, the rooftop terraces, and the church’s archaeological area, an underground crypt holding the 16th-century tomb of St. Charles Borromeo. Other tour options combine a visit to the Duomo with a tour of the adjacent and famously beautiful Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade or entrance to Milan’s famous La Scala Opera House. For art lovers, a Duomo tour can be combined with a viewing of Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper, or a tour of the artist’s former vineyard. Those interested in the history and architecture of the church should visit with an expert tour guide who can offer detailed insight into the construction.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get There
The Duomo is located in the historic center of the city, on pedestrianized Piazza del Duomo. Since it cannot be directly accessed by car, it is best to reach the cathedral on foot or by public transport; the closest metro station is right in front of the cathedral. You can also book a private tour with included transportation. If you’re visiting Rome, Venice, or Verona but want to see the cathedral of Milan, note that high-speed train tickets are a very effective means of travel.
When to Get There
The largest church in Italy stays consistently busy throughout the day, but skip-the-line entry allows visitors to jump the queues no matter what the time. Evening tours are available for visitors who would prefer to spend their rooftop visit peering over an illuminated and breathtaking skyline.
- Short on time? Skip the line with a priority-access ticket to the Duomo.
- If traveling with kids, book a family-friendly tour to keep them engaged.
- Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of the city you’ll get from the rooftop terrace.
How to Get There
The Duomo is located in the historic center of the city, on pedestrianized Piazza del Duomo. Since it cannot be directly accessed by car, it is best to reach the cathedral on foot or by public transport; the closest metro station is right in front of the cathedral. You can also book a private tour with included transportation. If you’re visiting Rome, Venice, or Verona but want to see the cathedral of Milan, note that high-speed train tickets are a very effective means of travel.
When to Get There
The largest church in Italy stays consistently busy throughout the day, but skip-the-line entry allows visitors to jump the queues no matter what the time. Evening tours are available for visitors who would prefer to spend their rooftop visit peering over an illuminated and breathtaking skyline.
Address: Piazza del Duomo, Milan 20122, Italy
Hours: Daily: 7am–7pm; Museum Tues–Sun: 9:30am–12:30pm, 3pm–6pm
Admission: Free. Roof Admission: € 4 by stairs, € 6 with elevator. Other areas have separate entrance fees
From $ 12

San Sepolcro Church (Chiesa di San Sepolcro)
The Church of San Sepolcro in Milan was originally founded in the 11th century. It has gone through several changes over the centuries since then, but the main attraction for most visitors is the crypt underneath the church.
Most of the renovations to the church were made in the 17th century. The crypt under San Sepolcro was reopened in 2016 after 50 years of being closed. There are 11th-century frescoes, Medieval graves, and Roman paving stones in the crypt. The 14the-century sarcophagus in the church is said to contain earth brought to Italy from Jerusalem by the crusaders, as well as a lock of Mary Magdalene’s hair.
The church is just behind the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana, and was a particular favorite of Leonardo da Vinci - so much so that when he drew his map of Milan, he put the Church of San Sepolcro at its center. Some of those drawings are on display in the Biblioteca Ambrosiana.
Practical Info
An audioguide is included with the price of admission to the crypt, so visitors can take a self-guided tour.
Address: Piazza S. Sepolcro, Milan 20123, Italy
Hours: Daily 12pm-8pm
Admission: Crypt - €10
From $ 12

Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology
The Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology (Museo Nazionale Scienza e Tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci) features seven sections—one dedicated to the Renaissance genius, plus others covering transportation, energy, and communication. More than 10,000 objects are on display, including a historical aircraft and steam train.
The Basics
In the museum, you can admire models of da Vinci’s inventions (including cars and a flying machine constructed according to his drawings), conduct your own experiments in 13 interactive workshops, and see the inventor’s original sketches. Holders of the Milano Card and the Milan Pass receive free or discounted entry to the museum and other city attractions such as the Duomo and La Triennale Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology is a must-see for science lovers of all ages and features exhibits tailored specifically to families with kids.
- Most but not all of the exhibits are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- Audio guides and an app with audio and video content are available.
- An on-site shop sells books and museum souvenirs.
How to Get There
The Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology is located at Via San Vittore 21, just outside Milan’s historic city center. To get there by public transit, take the M2 metro line to San Ambrogio, bus 58 to Via San Vittore/Via Aristide de Togni, or bus 94 to Carducci.
When to Get There
The museum is a popular Milan attraction and hosts many events and exhibitions throughout the year. Most visitors spend two to three hours exploring, and it’s best to arrive early in the day before crowds arrive. The museum lies within walking distance of Castello Sforzesco and the Duomo, so you can plan to visit all three attractions on the same day.
Curious Objects on Display
The Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology has a number of interesting scientific objects on display. Highlights include a S-506 Enrico Toti submarine that you can enter, a Foucault pendulum designed in the 19th century to demonstrate the rotation of the Earth, and a piece of moon rock donated to the Italian government by President Nixon from the last Apollo mission.
Address: Via San Vittore 21, Milan, Lombardy 20123, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 16

Piazza delle Erbe
Piazza delle Erbe is the beating heart of Mantua’s elegant Renaissance historic center. It is also home to three of the UNESCO World Heritage–listed city’s most famous monuments: the 13th-century civic hall, Palazzo della Ragione; Bartolomeo Manfredi’s 15th-century clock tower; and the 11th-century Rotonda di San Lorenzo, the city’s oldest church.
The Basics
As its name suggests, Piazza delle Erbe was once Mantua’s marketplace, and today it is both the cultural and social center of the city. Visit its sights or simply relax with a cappuccino at one of the many cafés that line the square to enjoy the local flavor. Walking tours of Mantua include an in-depth visit to this historic square, and Mantua’s proximity to Verona means that you can easily combine a visit to both landmark cities in one day.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The historic center of Mantua is quite compact and easily walkable, but be sure to wear comfortable shoes to tour the sights.
- Most of the square is closed to traffic, so it is relatively kid-friendly.
- Many of the streets in the historic center are lined with arcades and porticoes, protecting pedestrians from sun and rain.
- Piazza delle Erbe is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Mantua is located just south of Lake Garda, about halfway between Milan and Venice. Piazza delle Erbe is in the city center, about a 10-minute walk from the train station.
When to Get There
Like many cities in northern Italy, Mantua can be cold and wet in the winter months. Plan to visit in the summer, when the weather is mild and the skies are clear so you can enjoy a stroll through the center.
Sights in Verona
If you combine your Mantua visit with a tour of Verona—where Shakespeare's tale of Romeo and Juliet is set—you can explore sites including Piazza delle Erbe, the city’s former Roman Forum and now home to Lamberti Tower (Torre dei Lamberti), the Mazzanti Houses, and the Madonna Verona Fountain (Fontana Madonna Verona); the Verona Arena (Arena di Verona); Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta); Piazza dei Signori; Palazzo Maffei; and Castelvecchio.
Address: Piazza delle Erbe, Mantua, Italy
From $ 127

Leonardo's Vineyard (Museo Vigna di Leonardo)
Across the street from Leonardo da Vinci’s famous fresco of “The Last Supper” is the vineyard he was given by Milanese ruler, Ludovico Sforza, in 1495. The type of vines was identified during excavations in 2015, and the vineyard has been replanted with the same varietal Leonardo grew. The plot has been designed as it was in Leonardo’s time.
The house behind which the vineyard sits was not Leonardo’s, but he tended the vineyard himself. Visitors to the vineyard first get to see the beautifully-renovated Renaissance villa, Casa degli Atellani, and then a walk through the picturesque gardens and vineyard.
Tours of the house and vineyard are guided by a member of the staff, and every visitor receives an audio guide to help navigate through and learn about the seven distinct areas on the tour. For a special visit to this unique attraction, visitors can enjoy an evening tour with aperitivo in the vineyard or a combination ticket that includes “The Last Supper” fresco and the vineyard in one tour.
Practical Info
Tours run every 30 minutes during open hours from Monday-Thursday, and then every 15 minutes from Friday-Sunday. Tours last about 25 minutes. Reservations are strongly encouraged, especially on weekends.
Address: Corso Magenta 65, Milan 20123, Italy
Hours: Daily 9am-6pm
Admission: Adults: €10; Children: Free
From $ 13

Piazza Mercanti
While the Piazza del Duomo is the most important square in central Milan today, that title went to the Piazza Mercanti in the Middle Ages. The Piazza Mercanti, or Merchants Square, is in Milan's historic center, a short walk to the northwest of the Duomo. The square originally was much larger than it is today, once occupying part of present-day Via Mercanti. Some of the buildings on the square date from its heyday, including the 13th century Palazzo della Ragione (essentially Milan's city hall at the time) and the 14th century Loggia degli Osii (another administrative building).
In the center of the piazza is a 16th century well that was later fitted with two columns in the 18th century. It's covered and unused today There was a stone found nearby upon which merchants found guilty of cheating – or bankruptcy, depending on the story you read – were punished by public shaming, forced to stand on the stone with their pants down, before being sent to jail.
Practical Info
To reach Piazza Mercanti, walk from Piazza del Duomo's northwest corner along the angled street Via Mercanti. You'll see the piazza on your left in just a few steps. It's between the Metro stops of Duomo and Cordusio.
Address: Milan, Italy
From $ 35

Palazzo Real (Royal Palace)
Today, Milan is part of a unified Italy – but centuries ago, it was the center of its own empire, and has a Royal Palace to prove it. Milan's Palazzo Reale sits to one side of the Piazza del Duomo, a U-shaped building with its own piazza in the center (called the Piazzetta Reale). The Dukes of Milan moved into the Royal Palace from the Castello Sforzesco in the early 16th century, though the building predates that move. Much of the exterior we see today dates from the 18th century.
Today, the Palazzo Reale houses a Palace Museum tracing the history of the building's use, the Great Museum of the Duomo of Milan, as well as regular exhibitions of contemporary art – including displays of work by Monet, Picasso, Klimt, Kandinsky, and more. The artwork on display changes on a regular basis, loaned from major museums worldwide.
Practical Info
Milan's Royal Palace is adjacent to the Duomo, and is open Mondays from 2:30-7:30pm, Tuesday-Sundays from 9:30am-10:30pm. Tickets are €9.
Address: Piazza del Duomo, 12, Milan, Italy
Hours: Mondays from 2:30-7:30pm, Tuesday-Sundays from 9:30am-10:30pm.
Admission: €9
From $ 36

Santa Maria delle Grazie
Visitors flock to the modest 15th-century Santa Maria delle Grazie—built by Duke Francesco I Sforza and later reworked by Bramante—primarily to take in one of Italy’s most celebrated works of Renaissance art: Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, which decorates the refectory wall of the adjoining Dominican convent.
The Basics
Da Vinci’s groundbreaking mural is among the world’s most famous masterpieces, but the convent’s church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and important attraction in its own right. Built in Gothic and Romanesque styles as a private place of worship by Milan’s powerful Sforza family in 1490, the church has a brick facade decorated in a restrained pattern of pilasters and circles and a soaring Gothic nave. The great Renaissance architect Donato Bramante modified the design at the end of the 15th century, adding large semicircular apses, a striking drum-shaped dome lined by columns, and an elegant cloister and refectory.
The church is a must-see attraction, but as da Vinci’s mural can only be viewed upon advance reservation, it’s best to book a private guided tour with skip-the-line entrance to visit both the church and refectory. Many walking tours include the church along with other ara highlights, including the Duomo cathedral and nearby Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Pinacoteca di Brera, Castello Sforzesco, and Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entry to see The Last Supper is only allowed every 15 minutes for groups of 30 people at a time, and reservations are mandatory. You must book your entrance ticket or a tour with skip-the-line entry in advance.
-
The Last Supper tickets include entrance to the entire Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie: church, cloister, and refectory.
- Santa Maria delle Grazie is a place of worship, so attire covering shoulders and knees is recommended.
- The church and refectory are accessible to wheelchairs.
How to Get There
Milano's Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie is located between the Cadorna Triennale and Conciliazione metro stations, or you can walk from the Duomo in just 15 minutes.
When to Get There
Santa Maria delle Grazie is busiest in summer, so private tours or skip-the-line tickets must be booked well in advance. The refectory is closed on Mondays and holidays; the first Sunday of the month, entrance is free but still requires reservations.
The Last Supper Painting
Commissioned by Ludovico Il Moro in the late-15th century, this mural depicts Christ surrounded by the apostles in a composition featuring perspective and human emotion so revolutionary at the time that it changed the course of Renaissance art.
Address: Piazza della Maria delle Grazie 2, Milan 20100, Italy
Hours: Tue - Sun 8:15am - 6:45pm. To view The Last Supper make a reservation several days in advance
Admission: Church admission: Free. Last Supper viewing at additional charge
From $ 35

Sacro Monte of Varese
One of nine hills that form the UNESCO World Heritage Site of sacred pilgrim routes in Piedmont and Lombardy, the Sacro Monte (Sacred Hill) de Varese is in the Campo dei Fiori Regional Park north of the city of Varese.
Dating from 1604, the Sacro Monte owes its origins to a Capuchin monk and wends its way 1.25 miles (2 km) uphill past a group of 14 chapels interspersed with three archways and three fountains. Marking a medieval pilgrim route dedicated to the Mysteries of the Rosary, they are scenically located among a rustic backdrop of hills, forests and distant mountains and each showcases an event in the life of Jesus. The chapels were the work of major Lombardian architects and every one has a portico of a different design. Likewise each is adorned with statuary and frescoes; the most recent addition is the Flight from Egypt in the Nativity Chapel, which was painted by Renato Guttuso in 1983.
After a walk of about 1.5 hours, the pilgrim route lead up to the hilltop village of Santa Maria del Monte, which has a 15th-century Sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary. With views extending to the Alps, the village also has two small museums and a permanent nativity scene as well as several restaurants and hotels.
Practical Info
Via Assunzione, 21, Frazione Santa Maria del Monte, Varese. No charge for walking the Sacro Monte. Sanctuary open daily 8am 12pm, 2pm–6pm. Best accessed along the A8 Milan toll road, exit Varese. A funicular operates between the parking lot at the Prima Cappella and the top of Sacro Monte on Saturdays and Sundays all year round, and daily during August.
Address: Via Assunzione, 21, Frazione Santa Maria del Monte, Varese, Lombardy 21100, Italy
Hours: Sanctuary open daily 8am–12pm, 2pm–6pm
From $ 9

Leonardo3 Museum (World of Leonardo da Vinci)
The Leonardo3 Museum is an interactive exhibition dedicated to Italy's greatest luminary: Leonardo da Vinci. The exhibit includes more than 200 interactive machines and working models based on Leonardo's designs and a digitized version of the entire Codex Atlanticus, containing the inventor’s notes and sketches.
The Basics
Leonardo3 focuses on Leonardo as Renaissance man, both engineer and artist. Some of the physical models on display have never been built before, and all are constructed according to Leonardo's illuminated drawings. In addition, the exhibit includes a digital restoration of The Last Supper and a number of musical instruments. You can explore the museum independently or with the help of an audio guide in English, and there are a number of hands-on displays and touch screens that further explain the machines and models.
A visit to this engaging exhibition is easily combined with a tour of Milan's most famous sights, including the Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano) and Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco). Leonardo3 is also one of the museums included in the Milano Card pass.
Things to Know Before You Go
- With its engaging, interactive collection, Leonardo3 is a fun stop for both kids and adults.
- The museum is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- The mechanically minded are especially fascinated by the extensive collection of working machines and models.
- There is a small gift shop selling Leonardo-themed souvenirs.
How to Get There
The Leonardo3 exhibit is in Piazza della Scala, at the entrance of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II right in the center of Milan.
When to Get There
This indoor museum is the perfect place to spend a few hours on one of Milan's famously scorching afternoons in the summer or blustery days in the winter.
Leonardo's Machines
The exhibition includes a number of Leonardo's flying machines, a submarine, time machine, mechanical dragonfly, rapid-fire crossbow, mechanical eagle, and mechanical lion.
Address: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 14

Pinacoteca di Brera
The Pinacoteca di Brera, one of Italy’s most important museums, is a highlight of Milan’s fashionable Brera neighborhood. This impressive collection of medieval and Renaissance paintings includes masterpieces by Botticelli, Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio, Tintoretto, Piero della Francesca, and Andrea Mantegna.
The Basics
Housed in the baroque 17th-century Palazzo di Brera, the Pinacoteca di Brera has grand interiors and a lovely neoclassical cloister, and a visit to its stellar collection is a must for any art enthusiast. The museum's headliner is The Lamentation of Christ by Andrea Mantegna, a Mannerist gem. The surrounding Brera district, a charming maze of narrow, cobblestone streets lined with boutiques and cafés near the Duomo in the city center, is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Milan. Join a walking tour of Brera that includes skip-the-line tickets to the Pinacoteca di Brera to explore both the neighborhood and its most famous attraction. Brera is also a great place to experience Milan’s excellent food and wine scene, so consider joining a small-group food walking tour that has a gastronomic bent.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Flash photography isn’t allowed inside the Brera Pinacoteca, but the surround neighborhood is one of the most photogenic in the city, so bring your camera anyway.
- A visit of the museum and tour of Brera requires a bit of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
- The Pinacoteca is accessible to people with limited mobility via an entrance with an elevator, which is located at Via Fiori Oscuri, 2.
How to Get There
The Pinacoteca di Brera is right in the center of Milan, an easy walk north from the Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Otherwise, the nearest metro stops are Lanza (M2 line), Montenapoleone (M3 line), and Cairoli (M1 line).
When to Get There
Try to avoid visiting the first Sunday of the month, when the Pinacoteca is free to enter—and therefore very crowded. Better to visit on a weekday morning (Tuesday through Sunday; the gallery is closed on Mondays) and take the afternoon to explore the surrounding neighborhood.
Milan’s Food and Wine Scene
You may be surprised to discover that the cosmopolitan city of Milan is known for more than just fashion. This northern Italian capital also has a thriving food and wine scene that features both traditional dishes rooted in the area’s history and up-and-coming contemporary cuisine, especially in Brera. Take a food or wine walking tour through the neighborhood, and experience the city’s gourmet side for yourself.
Address: Via Brera 28, Milan 20121, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 19

Navigli District
The center of Milan was once crisscrossed with a series of interconnecting canals, called “navigli,” used to transport goods and people. Two still exist just south of the city center, and the surrounding Navigli District is one of Milan’s trendiest areas, full of galleries, cafés, restaurants, and clubs. It’s a hot spot worth a visit.
The Basics
The Navigli District is known for its vibrant nightlife. On summer evenings and weekends, the streets come to life with teeming bars and nightclubs, many with outdoor tables along the canals or located directly on the water on floating barges. This is the great place to discover Milan’s thriving food and wine scene, so consider joining a Milan aperitivo tour or beer tasting, or a walking tour of the neighborhood with a gourmet slant.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The picturesque Navigli area, with its canals and colorful period buildings, is one of the most photogenic neighborhoods in Milan. Be sure to bring your camera.
- One of the prettiest corners is Vicolo dei Lavandai, an offshoot of Naviglio Grande, where the Milanese would do their washing by hand. Today, the lane is lined with restaurants and shops.
- The area is paved and well-maintained, so it’s easy to manage with a wheelchair or stroller.
How to Get There
It's a pleasant walk from the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and the Duomo di Milano along Via Torino past the Colonne di San Lorenzo to Corso di Porta Ticinese, which brings you to the Navigli. Or, take metro line 2 to the Porta Genova stop. Milan is one of the most important cities in Italy and the capital of Lombardy, so it’s well-connected by train to Venice, Florence, and Rome.
When to Get There
The Navigli District is most vibrant in summer from late afternoon through the evening, as the area's bars and restaurants start to fill up, so join an afternoon food tour or evening walking tour to see the canals of Milan at their best.
Navigli District History
The first navigli canals were built in the 12th century, and over the centuries the system created by channeling existing rivers and dredging new waterways has been used for everything from irrigation to defense. By the beginning of the 20th century, most of Milan's navigli had fallen into disuse and were paved over in the 1930s, leaving only Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese in the working-class neighborhood just outside the wealthy city center. Low rents began to attract artists, who set up galleries and studios, and today the Navigli District has funky, bohemian atmosphere, making it one of the most desirable areas in the city.
Address: Italy
From $ 39