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Milan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. With its stunning architecture and historical sites, it’s no wonder that it’s one of the most popular cities to visit in Italy. If you want to see some of the most iconic Milanian landmarks, you are in the right place. Here, you can enjoy some of the most iconic sights and attractions in Italy. From Piazza San Giorgio to Piazza Venezia, there are plenty of places to explore.
Here is a list of 31 places to visit and the best things to do in Milan, Italy.
- 1. Duomo di Milano
- 2. Fonderie Milanesi
- 3. Navigli District
- 4. The Last Supper
- 5. Lake Como
- 6. San Siro Stadium
- 7. Sforzesco Castle
- 8. Isola
- 9. Chinatown
- 10. Naviglio della Martesana
- 11. La Balera dell’Ortica
- 12. Tunnel Club
- 13. Ratanà
- 14. QC Termemilano
- 15. Golden Triangle
- 16. Birrificio Lambrate
- 17. Pasticceria Cucchi
- 18. Starbucks Reserve Roastery Milano
- 19. Cascina Cuccagna
- 20. Teatro alla Scala
- 21. Lake Garda
- 22. Lake Maggiore
- 23. Bergamo
- 24. Turin
- 25. Underground Crypt
- 26. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
- 27. Museo del Novecento
- 28. Pinacoteca di Brera
- 29. San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore
- 30. Fondazione Prada
- 31. Corso Como
Best Things to do in Milan 1-10
1. Duomo di Milano
Duomo Milano is one of the most important destinations in Milan. It is near Largo Cairoli Metro Station (M1), and there are many tourist attractions around it, like Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele II, La Scala theater, Porta Ticinese city gate, etc.
Duomo Cathedral was built between 1386 and 1812. It’s regarded as the largest brick dome in the world. It’s also famous for its drawings, which makes it a unique place to visit while being in Milan. Altogether, Duomo is definitely one of the most important places to go when being in Milan.
The cathedral can be visited on any day from 7.00 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm (from November 1st to March 31st). There are also guided tours on specific dates, for more information visit the official site of Milan Cathedral.
P.za del Duomo, 20122 Milano MI, Italy
2. Fonderie Milanesi
Fonderie Milanesi is an old military factory in Milan, Italy. It is a place where you can explore the connection between industry and art. The most unique part about Fonderie Milanesi is that it’s a creative space where artists with specialized knowledge of mechanics and engineering work with metal to create furniture, sculptures, and art pieces out of recycled everyday objects.
One of the most interesting things to see at Fonderie Milanesi is a sculpture made from recycled objects. It’s a giant space rocket composed of a series of chairs, ovens, and other household items connected via screws and nuts. The chairs have been stacked on top of each other with an oven placed in between each one. The sculptures show the strength and thickness of metal which is what makes them so interesting to see.
Another thing worth seeing at Fonderie Milanesi is a sculpture made from recycled bicycle wheels. The artist has designed an intricate piece that uses hundreds of spokes connected by two rings to create a big sphere with circles inside. It’s fascinating to see how much this piece makes you think about the power and strength of the metal.
Fonderie Milanesi has a few different rooms that all have something unique to offer visitors. One room has a giant metal spiral staircase surrounded by hundreds of chairs welded together into pillars. It’s such an interesting detail to see how artists can take common household items and reuse them in such interesting ways. The room also has a series of helmets hanging on one wall with plants growing out of them.
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Another cool detail is the stairs made from car tires stacked on top of each other. The design is so unique and it makes visitors realize how strong metal really is. Fonderie Milanesi is a cool place to visit because it’s an example of how creativity and industry can merge together in such interesting ways.
Via Giovenale, 7, 20136 Milano MI, Italy
3. Navigli District
Navigli District is one of the most interesting places in Milan, Italy. It is situated near the city center and can be easily reached by underground ( subway ), bus or tram. Navigli District is separated into three parts: Canale Mussato, Canale Villoresi and Naviglio Grande. There are some lovely restaurants and bars where you can taste local food and drink. You can also enjoy walking or cycling along Naviglio Grande – not only it is perfect for nature lovers, but you can also see the interesting architecture of some villas and buildings on your way. I would recommend you to visit one of the Italian coffee shops such as Pellicano which is situated at Canale Mussato.
Another great attraction is the famous Darsena – the lock which brings water from Naviglio grande to the south area of Milan. There is a big complex built in the mid-19th century and it consists of different buildings such as warehouses where you can order coffee or eat something.
You can also rent a boat or go fishing. If you are interested in history, you will love this place! You can visit there at any time of the year, even if it is raining – only some attractions would be closed due to bad weather. I definitely recommend visiting the Navigli district, because apart from interesting things to do, it has a special atmosphere of calmness and romanticism.
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4. The Last Supper
The Last Supper is a famous wall painting by Leonardo da Vinci in the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria Delle Grazie, Milan. The work is one of the most reproduced works of art, with no less than twenty-one known copies and studies done by students alone. This painting represents Jesus Christ celebrating what some believe to be his Last Supper or “coena” in Latin.
There are many elements to pay attention to within this painting, but the most important would have to be the dynamics between Jesus and his followers. Among his closest disciples during that time were Peter, John, Judas Iscariot, James Minor (son of Alpheus), Philip, and Andrew. Each disciple has a different way of interacting with Jesus, and the varying interactions convey information about the role each disciple had in the story of Jesus and his teachings.
Peter can be seen leaning in close to hear what Jesus is saying; this reveals that Peter was listening to every word that came from his master’s mouth. Meanwhile, Judas can be seen leaning away from Jesus with an almost disgusted look on his face. This could show that he was being rebellious towards what Jesus was saying, or it might have been because Judas wanted to leave the conversation to do something else. He is also the only disciple holding a bag; some believe this means that he was planning to betray Jesus.
Jesus’s expression is one of peace and calm, while the other disciples’ expressions vary between shocked, surprised, and fearful. These various expressions around Jesus convey information about what each disciple had heard during this conversation. It also shows that the only person that truly understood Jesus was Judas Iscariot; many believe that he was the only disciple who was truly listening to what Jesus had to say. In addition, the fact that Judas is the only one holding a bag suggests that he was going to go through with his plan no matter how much it hurt him emotionally.
In conclusion, this painting provides information regarding how each disciple felt about Jesus and what he was saying that day. It also shows what each disciple may have been thinking about in their own minds, which can lead to more conclusions being drawn by the audience.
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Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
5. Lake Como
Lake Como is a lake that is found in northwest Italy. It mainly crosses the border of Lombardy and the Italian region of Piedmont. Lake Como has an area of 146 sq mi (378 km²). The city of Milan feels very close to this famous lake, but Milan itself can be found 35 miles away in South East.
Lake Como has a length of 31 miles (50 km). It is at its biggest in the central parts, stretching up towards North West. Smaller branches can be found towards South East and South West. Its widest point lies at 10 miles (16 km) near the city of Como.
Lake Como is part of an Italian national park, the park of ‘Lake Como and Maggiore’. It can be combined with visits to other famous towns, such as Venice or Verona.
There are many things to do at Lake Como. A good start is a nice walk around its shore. Most tourists will take their car to get there, but this is not advised because of the parking, and traffic jams.
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Talking about nice walks: Lake Como is a great place for this! It’s possible to go from Monza, which can be found close to Milan, towards the East. The walk will take about 2 hours past an old villa with a garden. The garden is very well preserved and you can find some Roman remains in it. The walk also leads past a butterfly park, which is open all year long for free!
Lake Como offers beautiful views and stunning towns and lights. It will be great to visit the famous Villa Carlotta and Villa Melzi with their beautiful gardens and greenhouses. You can take a boat trip over the lake if you want to admire the view from the water. There are also a lot of restaurants, cafés, and bars to relax at after your walk or boat trip.
6. San Siro Stadium
San Siro Stadium is located in Milan, Italy. This multipurpose stadium is best known for being the home of both AC Milan and Inter Milan, two of the most popular football teams in all of Europe. The stadium also hosts other large events throughout the year such as concerts, sports events, and festivals. There are many things to do at this world-class stadium that is located in a great city.
Stadium Tours: Visiting San Siro Stadium during the day allows you to see one of the world-class sporting venues up close and personal. The stadium has an interesting tour path that will allow you to see locker rooms, press boxes, VIP seating areas, and other private parts of the stadium. You might even get to see the teams warming up or practicing at certain points of the tour.
Restaurants and Cafes: If you are hungry during your visit, there are several cafes and restaurants available for public use. These places provide food that is both traditional Italian fare as well as classic stadium cuisines like burgers, chicken fingers, and fries. You can also find several beverages to quench your thirst by having some chilled beer, wine, coffee, soda, and water.
San Siro Stadium is located in a great city that has a lot of delicious restaurants to choose from as well as many places to grab a drink with friends before or after the match.
Piazzale Angelo Moratti, 20151 Milano MI, Italy
7. Sforzesco Castle
Sforzesco Castle is a magnificent castle located in Milan, Italy, and is one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in Lombardy. This world heritage site has been declared as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The construction of this castle was started by Barnabo Visconti in 1368 and it took around 150 years to complete this magnificent building.
The castle was built in Gothic and Italian Renaissance style and has a very interesting history. The Castle is surrounded by four courtyards; Corte Ducale, Cortile della Rocchetta, Cortile delle Armi, and Cortile d’onore. The Castello’s museum has an impressive collection of sculptures, paintings, and decorations belonging to the castle. The Castle has been used as a location for several movies and TV series too. The Castle is open from 9 am-6 pm every day except on Mondays. The area of Sforzesco Castle was added to Unesco’s World Heritage Site list in 2000.
Piazza Castello, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
8. Isola
Isola is a neighborhood of Milan, Italy that is located on an island formed by the re-routing of the river Mella. This area is known for its beautiful gardens and picturesque waterways. It’s also home to many up-and-coming designers and artists as well as some established design shops and art galleries.
For those who work in fashion, this is an ideal place to find unique clothing and accessories. Nearby, there are also some nice cafés, bars, restaurants, and gelato shops. One of the most famous ice cream places around is called “Burlesque” which has different flavors every day! There are also many small coffee shops that have great pastries!
The area is very popular for its food market, called “Mercato Albinelli”, where locals come to eat traditional Milanese cuisine. The neighborhood also has a lot of great places to take pictures with interesting architecture. This neighborhood is truly one of the most charming areas in Milan!
9. Chinatown
Chinatown in Milan is located in Via Paolo Sarpi, near the city’s center. The area of Chinatown is about 15000 square meters, making it one of the largest in Europe. About 75 percent of Milan’s Chinese stores are located here. In addition to the many different types of stores, there are also a number of restaurants and food stands.
Chinatown also hosts several cultural events throughout the year. There is an exhibit of Chinese art that changes every six months, and it often highlights historic artifacts that are thousands of years old. Chinatown also hosts several cultural festivals each year, including one celebrating the lunar new year; this festival has traditional performances and some live music to celebrate the holiday.
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Chinatown also hosts several other events like the China Film Festival. This festival usually takes place in April and showcases Chinese films from all different genres. Chinatown is not only culturally significant because of its heritage; it also plays an important role in Milan’s economy, especially when it comes to trade with China. Many people leave their stores open late into the night just to cater to the large number of Chinese tourists that visit Milan.
10. Naviglio Della Martesana
Naviglio Della Martesana is a canal that was constructed in the 16th century and is notable for its beauty. It is said to be “the most beautiful canal of Milan” (Azzalin). It passes through ten different municipalities in Milan. Because it has always connected the various lakes, dams, and canals of Lombardy, there is a lot of activity and business that takes place along the canal.
As a result, there are many things to do at Naviglio Della Martesana in Milan, Italy. Some of the most popular activities include: walking, bicycling, rowing, and sightseeing.
The area also offers several tours such as bike tours, boat tours, and gondola tours. In addition to sightseeing, many people go here to take part in recreational activities such as rowing or biking. The canal also offers a bike path that goes throughout the entire length of it
Best Things to do in Milan 11-20
11. La Balera dell’Ortica
La Balera dell’Ortica is a vintage Italian dance hall with a casual and rustic atmosphere. It is located in a small town close to Milan, called Caponago di Varedo. The place opened last year but it has been frequently visited by young people from all walks of life ever since its opening night because of the incredible collection of music that can be heard at La Balera dell’Ortica.
There are two main rooms in the dance hall that host different kinds of music. The first room is La Sala Giochi, which has a collection of arcade games and slot machines that you can play for free anytime during your visit. You will find all sorts of vintage old machines there. Some of them are even still working. The second room is La Sala Vela, which hosts different kinds of music events throughout the night. You will find disco hits from Italian dance shows of the 70s and 80s, as well as pop-rock songs that accompanied Italy through decades in this hall. Every evening at 20:30 you can enjoy a unique moment of live music, which features talented singers who are either Italian or playing their rendition of the most famous Italian pop hits.
La Sala Vela has its own bar and dance floor. It is designed to host concert nights for up to 200 people at once, but there are only 100 seats available in this room. From this room, you can enjoy the full force of the power of music pumping straight from the ancient sound system. The vintage.
Permanent resident DJs for La Sala Vela are DJ Sbarry and DJ 30 Pills, who work together to provide a mix of disco hits. They usually emerge on stage at 22:30 in order to warm up the dance floor for the concert.
Via Giovanni Antonio Amadeo, 78, 20134 Milano MI, Italy
12. Tunnel Club
Tunnel Club is a nightclub in Milan, Italy, and one of the best clubs in Europe. Tucked into a small alley next to an apartment building, Tunnel Club is only open Thursday–Saturday and does not accept reservations for parties smaller than 30 people. The club has three dance floors; each with its own DJ and bar serving cocktails, wine, champagne, and many different kinds of alcohol. The club is named after the party hall in “Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me”.
Tunnel Club, like many other clubs, requires all patrons to be 21 and older and can not accept anyone younger than 18 years old. There is a coat check; there is no dress code for males while females are required to wear heels.
Tunnel Club is located at Via Angelo Fumagalli 4 (near the intersection of Via Ludovico il Moro and Via Fabio Filzi), 20134 Milan, Italy. To get there, take Lines 1 or 2 to Cadorna Station and then exit onto Piazza Repubblica. Walk straight down Via Dei Liguri to Via Ludovico il Moro, turn right and walk for about 10 minutes. Tunnel Club will be on your right-hand side near the intersection of Via Angelo Fumagalli and Via Fabio Filzi.
The club is open every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 p.m. until 6 a.m.; closing times vary.
Via Giovanni Battista Sammartini, 30, 20125 Milano MI, Italy
13. Ratanà
Ratanà is an Italian restaurant in Milan, Italy that serves vegan food exclusively. The restaurant has a relaxing atmosphere and is very accommodating to its guests. As well as providing vegan menu items, they also provide gluten-free options for those who are gluten-intolerant.
They also provide whole foods and healthy snacks, making Ratanà a very health-conscious restaurant in its own right. It is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with hours that vary depending on the day of the week. While most days they are open from 7 am to 11 pm, they are open from 8 am to 12 pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
The ambiance is very zen and quiet, which makes it a great place for a business meeting or a date night with your significant other. There’s not much of an atmosphere, but there are some beautiful paintings and drawings on the walls to look at and admire. It’s a very calm and soothing experience that is great for your mental health as well as your physical health. The staff is friendly and helpful, which makes the customer service of this restaurant top of the line. It also helps with the atmosphere because they are so welcoming to their guests and eager to help them with whatever they may need.
They have a great menu with items for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that are all vegan and mostly gluten-free. They even have some dessert options that are vegan, but not all of them are vegan or gluten-free.
Via Gaetano de Castillia, 28, 20124 Milano MI, Italy
14. QC Termemilano
QC Termemilano is a shopping mall in Milan, Italy. QC Termemilano has shops ranging from clothing to sporting goods but also includes eating establishments and entertainment options.
Shops at QC Termemilano include:
- – Zara
- – Adidas
- – Nike
- – H&M Home
- – Emisfero
- – Yamamay
- – OVS
- – Benetton Sportsystem
- – Desigual
- – Adidas Performance
There are many restaurants at QC Termemilano, including:
- – La Cantinetta Milanese (Italian restaurant)
- – Pane Vino e San Daniele (Italian restaurant)
- – Sora Lella (Italian restaurant)
- – Sushi & Grill (Sushi, Asian food and more)
- – Burger King (fast food)
There are also other entertainment options at QC Termemilano. These include:
- – IMAX Theatre Milan (3-D cinema, shows in Italian, English, and French)
- – Diggerland (playground for children with construction vehicles)
- – Cinema Odeon (cinema)
QC Termemilano is open from Monday to Friday from 9:30 am to 8 pm, on Saturdays from 9:30 am to 9 pm and Sundays from 10 am to 6 pm.
Piazzale Medaglie D’Oro, 2, 20135 Milano MI, Italy
15. Golden Triangle
The Golden Triangle is one of the neighborhoods in Milan, Italy. It contains some of the most beautiful buildings in all of Milan. The homes are “palaces.” Palazzo Tupputi has very exquisite decorations on its exterior. There are also many other palaces around there.
Palazzo Clerici was built by Giuseppe Piermarini in 1769. It has a very distinct style, which includes columns in front of the entrance. The interior is decorated in Baroque style.
Palazzo Brentani was built in the 18th century. It used to be home to many famous Milanese people, including Greek Ambassadress Sofia Lambropoulou.
Palazzo Marino was an important symbol of Milan’s history until 1993 when it caught fire and its interior burned to ashes. Its exterior is now one of the biggest attractions to see in Milan.
The Gallerie d’Italia di Milano is a beautiful building that used to be home to many famous historical figures such as Napoleon Bonaparte.
Via Sant’Andrea, 2/16, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
16. Birrificio Lambrate
Birrificio Lambrate is an Italian craft beer brewery. It is located in Milan, Italy and it was created by the brewer Gianluigi Morleo.
The Birrificio Lambrate specializes in craft brewing and produces many different types of beers including those with wheat as well as those that contain fruit juice or honey. The ingredients used to make their products come from Italy. You can buy their products in some local bars and restaurants, but you must be over the age of eighteen to do so. There are also tours given of this brewery on Saturdays at 10:30 am for an hour and a half. The tour is free at the price of four euros for each additional beer that you choose to drink.
Visitors to this brewery will enjoy the old-fashioned equipment used to make these beers. The equipment has all been maintained and is kept in perfect condition. You can get a history of how these brewers started their careers by visiting this brewery. Once you are there you can look at the different types of beers that they produce, but also try them before you buy. You can also have an outside picnic there because the brewery has a nice outdoor area to enjoy its products.
To get to this craft brewery, visitors need to take the metro line one and then walk seven minutes from the Parco Lambro station stop. If you don’t want to go by yourself, you can take a guided tour which will cost about thirty-five euros. If you are interested, there are people that can give out more information about this or other breweries in Milan.
This brewery is great for those that want to try new beers and have fun while doing so. The guide takes you on a tour of the entire place but also explains the history of it and what you are going to be doing throughout the tour. They also give samples of their beers, but not until after they have finished explaining everything to you. If you want to drink more than the one included in the ticket price, they offer an option for that as well as some food options. The beer is all top-notch and you can tell that they are made with fresh ingredients. The brewery itself is an old factory, which adds to the rustic feel of this place. It also has a lot of space outside for when the weather is good; it’s right next to Parco Lambro Park.
If you want to try new beers while also having fun and learning something, then you should definitely check out this brewery.
17. Pasticceria Cucchi
Pasticceria Cucchi in Milan is one of the most popular bakeries. It makes amazing, delicious, super-fresh pastries and cakes in many locations all over Italy.
Pasticceria Cucchi was founded by Raffaele Cucchiara in 1934 in Alassio, Italy after he had done his military service. He began with a small shop, but he quickly gained popularity for his amazing sweets and pastries before opening more locations in nearby areas. By the 1960s Pasticceria Cucchi had become one of the most popular bakeries in Italy with many successful locations including Milan where it remains today.
Pasticceria Cucchi is an amazing place with delicious pastries, cakes, and other treats. It is my all-time favorite bakery in the world for its freshness, variety, taste, and affordability.
Corso Genova, 1, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
18. Starbucks Reserve Roastery Milano
Starbucks Reserve is a new high-end coffee bar. It’s the first of its kind, and it’s located in Milan, Italy. The cafe has an extensive menu that includes barista-made drinks like siphon brewed coffee (noted as “siphon”), espresso macchiatos, cappuccinos, cortados, flat whites, cold brew coffee on tap, and many more. At Starbucks Reserve, there’s also an area for making espresso-based cocktails with house-made syrups.
The interior is beautiful and modern, with giant windows that let in a lot of natural light during the day. There’s seating both indoors and outdoors when the weather allows. The location is right next to the new Hub 51 shopping center.
The cafe also offers coffee classes for customers who are interested in learning more about their unique drinks. During these classes, visitors can enjoy different “flights” of coffee that are specially selected by experts at Starbucks Reserve. Classes take approximately one hour and include all the coffee you can drink.
Besides coffee, Starbucks Reserve also has a food menu. For breakfast, you can order items like yogurt with granola, muffins, croissants with ham and cheese, or gluten-free porridge. Some of the lunch options include focaccia sandwiches with different kinds of meats and cheese. There are also salads on the menu.
Starbucks Reserve’s coffee is sourced from farms all over the world. All of their coffee is organic and of single origin, which means it comes from a single country or farm. Some of their coffees include Ethiopia Yirgacheffe, Guatemala Finca Carpe Diem, Colombia Los Naranjos, and many more.
Starbucks Reserve in Milan is a one-of-a-kind place that offers the highest quality beverages and food. It’s a good location for anyone who loves coffee or wants to find out more about it.
Piazza Cordusio, 1, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
19. Cascina Cuccagna
Cascina Cuccagna is an old farm located in Viale Certosa in Milan, Italy. It was built in the late 16th century by Francesco Sforza and passed on to Bernardino Galliari, who used it as a conservatory for fruits and vegetables during the Mussolini era. Today, it is a lovely public space where people can see different artistic events and take part in workshops, such as cooking classes or flower arrangements.
The farmhouse has a peculiar façade; it features two towers and a half-moon-shaped entrance with an arch. The interior of the house is very interesting because it has big rooms that seem to be built for public interaction and socializing. There are also smaller rooms that are great for more private events.
There are many places outside to sit down and enjoy the outdoors, so it’s a lovely place to have lunch or just sit down for a while. There are also many green areas surrounding the buildings where people can find beautiful trees, plants, and flowers.
The farm is open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Via Privata Cuccagna, 2/4, 20135 Milano MI, Italy
20. Teatro Alla Scala
Teatro Alla Scala is one of the most famous opera houses in the world. It is located in Milan, Italy, and was built in 1778. La Scala has seen many great singers such as Enrico Caruso, Maria Callas, and Luciano Pavarotti sing there. Visitors to La Scala can go see an opera or ballet performance and there are guided tours available for this historic theatre.
La Scala was originally called Teatro Alla Canobbiana after the nearby street where it was located. Its current name comes from the district in which La Scala is situated, an area of Milan famous for its silk workshops. The original site of La Scala was not large enough to allow for the construction of a stage and the audience areas. So, in an effort to expand, a group of wealthy Milanese merchants raised enough money to acquire property for this purpose on part of the site once occupied by the convent of Santa Maria Della Scala.
Giovanni Giuseppe Piermarini designed the new theatre and took inspiration from some theatres in Naples and Paris. The floor of the auditorium was decorated with a geometric pattern and the main boxes were covered in red velvet and decorated to resemble small luxurious private homes where guests could watch the show in their own privacy.
The first performance at La Scala opened on 3rd August 1778 when an opera by Pietro Giuseppe Garibaldi was presented. The house was very well attended and over the years La Scala has attracted many great singers including both male and female sopranos such as Maria Callas and Renata Tebaldi in addition to tenors and baritones like Luciano Pavarotti and Placido Domingo.
La Scala is a world-class opera house, but it is also an important cultural institution. Today’s theatre has a museum that includes statues, paintings, photographs, and posters depicting some of the best singers that have performed at this famous opera house.
Via Filodrammatici, 2, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
Best Things to do in Milan 21-30
21. Lake Garda
Lake Garda is one of the most famous lakes in Italy. It is a freshwater lake and measures approximately sixty-three kilometers in length and about thirteen kilometers in width which makes it ideal for any type of activity, including sailing and surfing.
Lake Garda has mild temperatures throughout the year, making it an ideal spot to go on holiday with your family or friends. It is located in the northern part of Italy, not far from Milan. It is surrounded by many famous resorts including Sirmione, Riva del Garda, and Lazise. There are also several cities that surround the lake, which include Salò, Desenzano del Garda, and Malcesine.
Lake Garda is a very popular holiday destination, so it is important to book your accommodation in advance. There are many hotels and resorts nearby which offer excellent facilities for people who do not have their own transportation. This includes boat rentals so you can enjoy the lake from a different perspective. And even if you don’t want to rent a boat, it is still a good idea to explore the lake, as there are many hidden beaches that you can stumble upon.
If you’re looking for an activity that includes nature and history then Lake Garda is definitely worth checking out!
22. Lake Maggiore
Lake Maggiore is a lake located in northern Italy and the country’s second-largest, only after Lake Garda. The lake is also nicknamed Lago Verbano because it is shared by Italian Switzerland and Piedmont. It is 4.6 miles (7 km) wide at its widest point and 32 miles (51 km) long.
Lake Maggiore offers a lot of activities—from water sports to outdoor activities, from mountains and vineyards to amazing views. The lake is surrounded by both cities and nature.
Lake Maggiore offers many tours, cruises, restaurants, and hotels in Milan that make for a great stay in the area. Some of the most common activities to do at the lake are:
- – Boat Tours
- – Sailing Boat Rentals
- – Motorboat Trips
- – Fishing Trips
- – Beach Activities (volleyball, badminton)
Lake Maggiore is an enjoyable spot for tourists of all ages. The area offers delicious food and many activities and can be a great place to spend your afternoon.
23. Bergamo
Bergamo is a town in Italy, located 40 km northeast of Milan. The city is on an easily-defended hill, near the Gavia Pass which was important for communications through the Alps.
Bergamo has about 90,000 inhabitants. It is accessible by way of the Autostrada A4 (Milan-Venice) up to the Chiese exit, and through Autostrada A35 which connects it with Brescia. Bergamo is also accessible by train through the lines Milano-Brescia/Milan-Treviglio or Milan-Cremona/Mn-Bs.
In 2005, Bergamo was declared as the European capital of culture. In 2016, Bergamo was the host of World Youth Day. Bergamo is home to one or more prehistoric pile-dwelling (or stilt house) settlements, which are part of the Prehistoric Pile dwellings around the Alps UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bergamo occupies the site of an Allobrogian or Celtic town, perhaps called Vigandum, which became a Roman settlement in 15 BC. The area between the river Serio and the hills was settled at least since the Bronze Age. From this period many objects (including weapons, jewels, and tools), have been discovered in several places along the valleys
The current town grew up around a castle built by the House of Visconti, lords of Milan one century after 1250, and after 1450 owned by the Republic of Venice. Bergamo was a condominium between the Visconti and Sforza families, who disputed its possession for a century until Francesco I Sforza.
In 1492-1535, it was the seat of a civil war, which ended when Venice conquered it with assistance from Emperor Charles V.
The city became part of the Republic of Venice in 1428, like most of its provinces (current provinces of Bergamo and Brescia), while Mantua was its neighbor 32 km to the west. This caused it to have a tumultuous political history; among other things, it was besieged by the Milanese in 1450, besieged by the Venetians in 1499 and 1512, and occupied by Francesco I of Gonzaga in 1509.
Bergamo is considered to be the city where Galileo Galilei conducted his experimental studies on moving bodies (“Il saggiatore”). From 1788 to 1839, he lived in a house (now called the “Casa di Galileo” or “Galileiana”) nearby Via Vincenzo Gioberti, where he hosted Alessandro Volta and some of his pupils; another house (the so-called “Cortile delle Armi”, i.e., Courtyard of Weapons) is also pointed out as a place where Galileo carried out his experiments on gravity and motion.
Since the 20th century, scientific, professional, and business activities have strongly developed in Bergamo; new industries settled down in the whole province (especially pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and mechanics), as well as tertiary and quaternary sectors (the latter dominating). Tourism is now becoming a much more important part of the city’s economy.
Bergamo has an international airport called “”Il Caravaggio””. It is connected to Milan by way of shuttle buses. Bergamo railway station opened in 1850 and connects the city with all the major cities nearby, including Brescia, Trento, Verona, and Venice. Bergamo has a very high standard of living, with very low unemployment and minimum government corruption.
In recent years, Bergamo is being subjected to a mass development project, which includes new transportation infrastructure (like a light rail line) and an urban renewal program.
24. Turin
Turin is an Italian city with a population of over 1 million people. Turin is also the host city of World Design Capital 2014. It is Italy’s sixth-largest city but is one of the most important in Europe, because of its location at the center of Italy and between France and Germany. The metropolitan area has a population of 2.7 million.
Turin is a beautiful city in Europe and is known for being a welcoming place in Italy There are many things to do there such as visiting museums, going to the park, and going to the movies. Turin also has some of the best ice creams in Italy.
Turin is also host to the famous “Italian Street Food Festival” which occurs every year. Other events include the Turin International Book Fair which is one of the oldest in the world. The city also hosts an opera season at the Teatro Regio
Turin is a great place to be around and there are many cool things to do such as play soccer, eat pizza, go shopping, and more! Many places in Italy will not let you use their bathroom but it is ok to use the bathroom here. Visit Turin, Italy today if you are looking for awesome things to do in Europe!
25. Underground Crypt
There is an underground crypt located in the Chiaravalle Abbey which is situated in Milan, Italy. It was built in 1462 and later modified over centuries up until the twentieth century. Underground Crypt was affected by the Second World War where bombs were dropped on it but not directly at it because Milan had churches dedicated to Mary, so it was a safe zone. The crypt was used as a location for a scene in the 2006 movie, “Casanova”.
26. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II also known as the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele or Milan’s Gallery is a shopping arcade in Milan, Italy. The arcade links Piazza del Duomo to Piazza Della Scala by crossing Via Manzoni and contains several fashion boutiques.
The Galleria is named after Victor Emmanuel II of Italy who reigned in the 19th century. The Galleria is famous for containing the boutiques of many famous fashion designers, including Gucci, Prada, Fendi, and Versace. It also contains real estate agencies like Boscolo Luxury Living Milan, an agency that invests in luxury apartments and houses around the city.
It is possible to visit the Galleria during the day by entering through Piazza del Duomo, or at night with a ticket to the opera at Teatro Alla Scala. It is possible to go shopping in the evenings on Via Della Spiga, which leads off from near one end of the arcade.
The building containing the shops was designed by Giuseppe Mengoni between 1865 and 1877. The construction of the gallery was begun in 1864, soon after Italian unification, under the influence of the aristocracy who spent their money lavishly with the aim to build majestic buildings suited for staging royal festivities. Mengoni’s idea was to build a grand thoroughfare that would link Piazza del Duomo to Piazza Della Scala, but also be monumental enough to house the offices of Milan’s most famous luxury boutiques.
The construction of the gallery was soon hindered because of financial difficulties due to high costs, both for land acquisition and construction; Mengoni himself committed suicide in 1877. The building was later completed by architect Giuseppe Boretti, who was responsible for its iconic dome covered in mosaics.
Boretti’s addition is criticized by many architecture critics because it shows a lack of stylistic unity. On the ground floor of the Galleria are four muses that hold vases with fine fragrances: Fames, Harmony, Health, and Abundance.
The Galleria, also known as Milan’s Gallery, is a great example of neoclassical architecture with its pillars and arches, which are decorated with beautiful mosaics. The mosaic floors were produced by Giannino Castiglioni in 1878, a year after the original construction was completed.
The mosaics were replaced in the 1960s because of damages from time and pollution, which proved too costly to restore. In 1989 a competition was organized to replace the historic mosaics with new works by artist Mimmo Paladino, but these have been criticized for lacking stylistic unity with the original building.
The Galleria is also a popular location for weddings.
P.za del Duomo, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
27. Museo del Novecento
Museo del Novecento is located in Milan, Italy, and is a great place to visit if you love modern art. The museum has a collection of permanent works that span from the first half of the 20th century until today. The exhibits are not as vast as those at many other museums; however, it’s nice because you can see everything in one afternoon.
The museum has a permanent collection of Italian and European art from the first half of the 20th century until the present day. The collections were gradually built up during reconstruction in the 1950s, ’60s, and ’70s when new acquisitions were needed to fill gaps such as Le Corbusier or Kandinsky. Although there are less than a hundred pieces, the museum offers a direct and personal insight into 20th-century art movements that have shaped many of our perceptions today.
In 1919, Maria Bergsonio founded Galleria d’Arte Moderna in Milan with the goal to bring modern works from Paris. In 1933, after marrying Enrico Prampolini she changed the name to Galleria del Milione. The collection was later added thanks to works by Giacomo Manzù, Marino Marini, and Giulio Paolini in 1968, with further donations coming from Ottavio Missoni (1979) and Gianni Versace (1991).
Galleria del Milione reopened as Museo del Novecento in 2010. It currently features over 100 pieces of 20th-century Italian and European art, including works by artists such as Marc Chagall, Salvador Dalí, Georges Braque, Piet Mondrian, René Magritte, and Frida Kahlo.
28. Pinacoteca di Brera
Pinacoteca di Brera is an art museum in Milan, Italy. It is one of the largest museums in Milan. The Pinacoteca di Brera was officially opened in 1809. The museum holds several paintings by Italian artists such as Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian; however, it also contains many works by non-Italian artists like El Greco, Rubens, and Van Dyck. There are over 800 works in all. The most famous of these is Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper”.
The Pinacoteca di Brera was initially housed in the former Jesuit convent on Via Brera, just opposite the Accademia di Belle Arti. At that time it contained some 660 paintings taking up 140 meters of available wall space. It has now become one of the largest museums in Italy.
Pinacoteca di Brera also holds a large collection of drawings and engravings by Italian artists from the 16th century to the 19th century. The museum displays 35,000 pieces in total.
The building which houses the Pinacoteca di Brera is part of the complex of buildings belonging to the Accademia di Belle Arti di Brera (Brera Academy), an art school founded in 1776 by Empress Maria Theresa of Austria and housed in a former Jesuit college.
Pinacoteca di Brera is located in central Milan. It can be accessed by the Lanza station on Line 1 of the Milan Metro and buses 51, 52, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, and 94; it is also accessible from the Cadorna station (metro line M1) via bus 79.
29. San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore
San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is a basilica located in Milan, Italy. It was constructed in the 11th century and is known for its magnificent architecture and breathtaking interior. The name San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore holds great significance in history and this place is known for its architectural beauty and rich history.
The Duomo: This Italian cathedral holds great significance due to its architectural beauty and history. It attracts thousands of visitors every year and has been recognized as one of the most important churches in the world.
The Monastery: The monastery is another main attraction of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore. It holds a significant place in history and is known for its splendid architecture and historical importance.
Museum: An important part of the church, the museum has great significance in the history of art. Many important pieces of Italian art are held in this art museum and attract thousands of visitors every year.
Another essential part of visiting San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is touring the basilica. It gives a personal experience to each visitor, allowing them to appreciate the magnificent architecture and historical value of the basilica.
30. Fondazione Prada
Fondazione Prada is an exhibition space in Milan dedicated to contemporary art. The project was originated by Miuccia Prada together with Patrizio Bertelli, her husband. Designed by Rem Koolhaas and his firm OMA (Office for Metropolitan Architecture), the building opened its doors on May 21, 2012, and is located on Via Francesco Crispi number 16.
The main exhibition space is on the first floor, with the exhibition space on three levels. The building also contains a storage area for artworks and an auditorium with 126 seats. The complex is equipped with shops, restaurants, showrooms, and other selling points.
Other than exhibitions, Fondazione Prada also organizes talks, workshops, and concerts.
The building reportedly has 2,500 m² of floor space on the ground floor (a total of 18 rooms). The exhibition rooms are located on the first and second floors with four smaller meeting/events spaces.
The complex is equipped with shops, restaurants, showrooms, and other selling points.
Built on the site of an abandoned brewery, the building was completed in 2012. It was designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas of OMA (Office for Metropolitan Architecture), built for Prada on a project begun in 2004.
The project was originated by Miuccia Prada together with Patrizio Bertelli, her husband. In 2004 Miuccia Prada chose Rem Koolhaas’ OMA to design the new building for Fondazione Prada.
OMA’s proposal was chosen from among the designs of various international architects: Herzog & de Meuron, Zaha Hadid, and Norman Foster. Prada also invited Japanese-born Italian architect Arata Isozaki to propose a design for Fondazione Prada, but his project was not chosen.
The construction of the building cost €35 million, but Prada announced that it would cover all expenses.
L.go Isarco, 2, 20139 Milano MI, Italy
Best Things to do in Milan 31 and beyond
31. Corso Como
Corso Como is an upscale shopping district in Milan, Italy. It is one of the most important streets in the city; it links Porta Garibaldi (one of the historical gates of Milan) to Piazza Della Scala (the entrance to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, another popular mall). As you walk down Corso Como, you will see many exclusive fashion boutiques with stylish brands like Etro, Furla, Hogan, and Salvatore Ferragamo. The shops are interspersed with bars, cafes, restaurants, and art galleries carrying merchandise of similar style.
One attraction of Corso Como is its landscaping; it has been dubbed “the street of gardens”. In the summer, it is a treat to walk through its beautiful greenery.
In addition to shopping and eating, Corso Como is also home to many cultural attractions. The Museo Poldi Pezzoli has a well-known collection of 19th Century paintings, including works by Botticelli, Leonardo Da Vinci, Caravaggio, and Titian. The Pinacoteca di Brera is a museum of paintings open to the public.
Corso Como has many wonderful restaurants both for fine dining as well as casual bites. It also houses several cafes, bars, and pizzerias where people gather for coffee or dessert after meals.
Out of the list of the Best Things To Do in Milan, you can pick and choose which ones you want to cover depending on your preferences and how much time you have available on hand. We’d recommend doing all of them!
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Note: The hours of operation, ticket prices, and admission criteria of museums, parks, etc. may change from time to time. For the most updated information, we recommend checking the official website of the attraction directly prior to your planned visit.
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