Milan, the fashion capital of the world, is located in the northern region of Lombardy. Historic, elegant, and cosmopolitan—this northern Italian city is a perfect mix of modern and historical. From gorgeous window displays in the Quadrilatero della moda and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuelle II shopping arcade to high-street shops, vintage stores, and flea markets, Milan is a shopper's paradise. But shopping isn't the only thing to do in Milan!

Tourists can visit the famous Duomo di Milano, the Pinacoteca di Brera Art Gallery, which showcases artworks from the Middle Ages to the 20th Century, and the unique Sforzesco Castle. Football fans will love San Siro Stadium, while art lovers will flock to the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie to see Leonardo Da Vinci’s 'The Last Supper,' and music enthusiasts will appreciate the Teatro alla Scala Opera House. From fashion to art, history, sports, food, and drinks—Milan is definitely worth visiting!

Here is the complete guide and list of things to do in Milan, Italy.

UPDATE: 2023/08/02 10:17 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA

Things To Do In Milan

There is no shortage of fun things to do in the Fashion Capital of the World. From shopping at the luxurious Grand Gallery to relaxing in the serene Parco Sempione, find out more ways to get the most out of a Milan vacation

Top Things to Do in Milan

There are so many fun things to do and beautiful things to see in Milan. Here is a list of some of our favorites!

1 Visit The Duomo di Milano

Located in the Piazza del Duomo, this Gothic cathedral is one of the largest churches in Italy (after St. Peter’s) and has a gorgeous roof that visitors can walk on. Take the elevator to the rooftop terrace and admire the views, as well as the hundreds of sculptures that decorate the unique space.

The Duomo took 600 years to build, and the interior is just as ornate as the exterior. And while a self-guided tour through one of Milan’s main attractions is wonderful, a guided tour is also a great option. In fact, one of the best tours in Milan is a guided tour of the Duomo, as it offers access to areas non-accessible to the public.

• Address: Piazza del Duomo, 20122 Milano
• Hours: Open daily, 8 am - 7 pm
• Cost: Free (but admission to the museum starts at $3.50

As one of the major attractions in the city, tourists are likely to encounter endless queues at the Milan Cathedral. To try and avoid the long wait, plan to be there an hour before opening hours.

2 Go Shopping In The Fashion Capital Of The World

For tourists looking for a fabulous shopping experience in Milan, the fashion capital of the world will not disappoint! From luxury retail, like Versace, Armani, Prada, and Gucci, Milan also offers hundreds of high-street stores, outlets, and a few great flea markets for one-of-a-kind finds.

The Quadrilatero della moda is the place to find Milan's most elegant brands. Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga are the most famous street in the area. In fact, they are the most popular fashion streets in Italy. Expect brands like Bottega Veneta, Salvatore Ferragamo, Missoni, and lots more! A walk through the beautiful and vibrant fashion district is inspiring and lots of fun!

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a 19th-century Galleria in the heart of Milan. This glass-domed shopping arcade is stunning and offers more high-end boutiques, like Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Gucci, as well as excellent restaurants and cafés. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is the perfect place for an afternoon of window-shopping, pulling the trigger on a big luxury purchase, or even just enjoying a cup of coffee in a cute café.

For more affordable options, try Via Torino. It's in the Piazza del Duomo and offers popular brands, like H&M and Zara. And for shoppers looking for one-of-a-kind treasures at Italian flea markets with a laid-back atmosphere and a Bohemian vibe, try Mercatino dell’antiquariato di Brera.

The Brera District is the place to be for vintage lovers. Shoppers will find big-time name brands, but also fragrances, jewelry, and home décor items.

There are a lot of things to know before going shopping in Milan to make the most of the trip!

3 See The Teatro alla Scala Opera House

Teatro alla Scala Opera House is one of the most famous opera houses in the world. Known for its superior acoustics, many of the world’s greatest singers have performed on this unique stage over the past 200 years.

Whether an opera performance is feasible or not, a visit to Teatro alla Scala is definitely worth a visit. During the day, visitors can get a guided tour inside the opera house and the Ansaldo Workshops, where costumes and sets are designed.

• Address: Via Filodrammatici, 2, 20121 Milano
• Hours: Monday through Sunday, 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM

To attend a show at the opera house, buy a ticket on the venue's official website, Meanwhile, the Museum of La Scala, just beside it, offers more context into the storied history of La Scala through exhibits of musical instruments, costumes, and several historical documents.

4 Witness Leonardo Da Vinci’s 'The Last Supper'

Possibly Italy’s most famous artwork, Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper (1498), is on display inside the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. The exterior of the church is charming, with red bricks and a rear basilica. And the architecture is very typical of Lombardy at the start of the Renaissance period.

Tourists can visit the church and the famous painting inside, but reservations are required. Also, please note that a dress code is required to enter places of worship in Milan; no sleeveless tops or shorts are allowed.

• Address: Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2, 20123 Milano
• Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 8:15 AM to 7 PM

Tours to the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie are only possible via appointment in groups of 20 for strictly 15 minutes, But for a more immersive experience, book a certified guided tour to get a comprehensive take on the Last Supper Painting.

5 Explore Sforzesco Castle

Built in the 15-century, Sforzesco Castle is a remarkable medieval masterpiece that currently houses multiple museums: The Pinacotca del Castello Sforzesco, the Archaeological Museum of Milan, the Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of Musical Instruments, the Egyptian Museum, the Applied Arts Collection, the Antique Furniture & Wooden Sculpture Museum, the Achille Bertarelli Print Collection, and the Mueum of Rondanini Piets, which houses Michaelangelo’s very last work—the Pietà Rondanini.

The building is impressive, and the gardens are the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. Sforzesco Castle is definitely worth a visit!

• Address: Piazza Castello, 20121 Milano
• Hours: Daily, 7 AM to 7:30 PM
• Cost: Entrance to the castle is free but museum and exhibition tickets cost approximately $5 per person.

The Sforzesco Castle is the ultimate playground for history buffs, with so many treasures to uncover at the different museums within it. Tourists might need to clear their schedules to comprehensively inspect all the exhibits at the venues.

6 Stop By Piazza dei Mercanti

One of Milan's most beautiful public squares, the Piazza dei Mercanti, is located in the heart of Milan and comprises famous medieval buildings. The Palazzo della Ragione was built in 1233 and once served as the administrative headquarters of Milan. The Palazzo dei Notai is a 15th-century Gothic palace. The Palazzo delle Scoule Palantine is a 17th-century baroque palace. And the Loggia degli Osii was built in 1316 and was an administrative seat in Milan.

The Piazza dei Mercanti is just a quick walk from the Duomo, and a visit to this small and historic square is worth it just for the architecture.

• Address: Piazza dei Mercanti, 20123 Milano

Related: Milan: Former Capital Of The Roman Empire, Today You Can See Its Ruins

7 Go To Leonardo da Vinci National Museum Of Science And Technology

This historical site in Milan is one of the most important science and technology museums in Europe. With so many things to see, this museum is definitely worth a visit. Expect beautiful works of art, steam trains, a submarine, and a fragment of the moon.

The New Galleries are dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci and are a permanent exhibition in the museum showcasing a variety of works that illustrate his life and accomplishments. New temporary exhibits focusing on science and technology appear regularly.

• Address: Via San Vittore, 21, 20123 Milano
• Hours: Tuesday to Friday (10 am - 5 pm), Saturday (10 am - 6 pm), Sunday (9:30 am - 6:30 pm)
• Cost: Approximately $11 per person

The Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology is a mammoth facility that will take tourists the better part of the day to go through exhibits. Bring a snack to starve off any pangs of hunger; a special room at the venue is specifically set aside for meals.

8 Get Inspired At Pinacoteca di Brera Art Gallery

This is one of the best things to do when visiting Milan! The building housing this iconic art gallery dates back to the Baroque period, and the artworks inside range from the 13th century to the 20th century. Expect to see beautiful pieces from some of the best Italian and foreign artists around the world, including Raphael, Tintoretto, and Mantegna.

The Pinacoteca di Brera Art Gallery is also part of a world-renowned academy for up-and-coming artists.

• Address: Via Brera, 28, 20121 Milano
• Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 8:30 AM to 7:15 PM; Monday, closed.
• Cost: $7.70

9 Spend The Evening In Naviglio Grande

One of Milan's two canals, the Naviglio Grande, stretches from Porta Ticinese to the Ticino River. This is a fantastic spot to stroll along the water and soak up the unique Milan views. Shops, restaurants, and historic buildings line the walkways.

A nice change of pace from the more touristy areas of Milan, the Naviglio Grande is known as a quirky spot with a lively nightlife. Go for an early morning walk and stop for breakfast, or enjoy a delicious dinner with canal views and stay for a few pints. Either way, the Naviglio Grande is worth a visit!

• How to get to Naviglio Grande: Take the M2 Metro line to Agostino or Porta Genova. The Naviglio Grande is only a short walk away! Alternatively, lines 25 and 26 (bus or tram) will drop people off at Via Gorizia, right on the banks of the Naviglio Grande.

Related: 10 Tried-And-True Foodie Recommendations In Milan's Navigli District

10 Visit San Siro Stadium

If given the chance to watch a match at San Siro Stadium, don't pass it up! But if a game isn't in the cards, try a tour. Easily among the most iconic stadia in the soccer world, this famous arena is home to both Inter Milan and AC Milan. And a tour gives visitors an inside look into this spectacular space.

Visit the sideline and the stands, check out the changing rooms, and even follow in the footsteps of Italian football greats by walking through the tunnel and onto the pitch. The tour starts in San Siro Museum, where visitors can see former jerseys and trophies, as well as other cool football memorabilia. For any football fan visiting Milan, a trip to San Siro Stadium is a must!

• Address: Piazzale Angelo Moratti, 20151 Milano

The best time soccer fans can have at the San Siro is during the Milan derby when the two city rivals (Inter Milan and AC Milan) lock horns. The atmosphere is out of this world as the opposing fans passionately sing their hearts out to will their teams to victory.

11 Take A Break From The Urban Fuss At Parco Sempione

For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the busy Milan streets, Parco Sempione will make tourists feel right at home. This expansive public space behind the Sforzesco Castle is laden with lush lawns and well-manicured gardens, spoiling visitors and locals with 95 acres of peace and tranquility.

Besides the amazing landscaping in the park, multiple footpaths and trails accommodate walkers, joggers, and bikers looking to explore the open spaces. Whether planning a fun picnic with family and friends or craving some alone time to unwind or meditate, the Parco Sempione is the perfect setting.

• Address: Piazza Sempione, 20154 Milano MI, Italy
• Hours: Open daily, 6:30 am - 9 pm

After relaxing at the park, climb to the top of Torre Branca to enjoy stunning views of Milan or search for historical treasures at the on-site museum.

12 Tour The Royal Palace Of Milan

The Royal Palace of Milan serves as the seat of the city's government and is a vital cultural center of the city. It hosts various exhibitions throughout the year, ranging from fashion to art, to showcase gorgeous creations by local artists. The palace spans about 7000 square meters and houses an impressive collection of paintings from prestigious museums.

The palace also has a museum that chronicles the history of the venue while delving into the city's rich past through four distinct sections. By visiting the museum, guests can explore the Napoleonic, Neoclassical, and Restoration eras in the city, before wrapping up with the Unification of Italy.

• Address: P.za del Duomo, 12, 20122 Milano MI, Italy
• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, Noon - 7:30 pm (Thursday 10 pm)

Once the tour of the Royal Palace wraps up, remember to step outside the palace's courtyard for a rare and unique view of the famous Milan Cathedral.

13 Discover An Ancient Gem At Basilica di Sant Ambrogio

Located a stone's throw away from the Museum of Science and Technology, the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio is among the oldest structures in the city. The original church was built in 379 AD, but the current basilica was completed towards the end of the 1000s. Its modest Romanesque design features 2 brick towers in the facade with a gorgeous atrium.

Meanwhile, the inside of the church displays intricate artwork and beautiful mosaics that send visitors to back the old days. They can also admire historical treasures like the sarcophagus of Stilicho and the crypt, which hold the remains of Saint Gervasus and Saint Ambrose.

Visiting Sant'Ambrogio is a solemn trip down memory lane offering a fine sight into Milan's history that travelers will appreciate.

• Address: Piazza Sant'Ambrogio, 15, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
• Hours: Monday to Saturday, (10 am - 6 pm), Sunday (10 am - 5 pm)

14 Enjoy Retail Therapy At Grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Tourists will easily mistake the Grand Gallery for a palace when they walk through its enormous entrance hall. Built in 1877 and designed by Guiseppe Mengoni, this impressive shopping mall is one of the oldest in the world, but it's hard to tell given the sheer opulence it harbors inside.

A glass roof allows enough natural light into the mall to illuminate the stucco artwork and ornate paneling decorating the walls and storefronts. Guests can find some of the highest-end boutiques and brands in Milan, with names such as Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci well represented.

• Address: P.za del Duomo, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
• Hours: Open 24/7

The Grand Gallery is where shoppers go to flex their financial muscles. Those looking for a bargain might want to look elsewhere.

Is Milan Expensive?

While Milan is one of the more expensive cities to visit in Italy, a trip to the fashion capital of the world doesn't have to break the bank.

There are so many amazing things to do in Milan, and many of them are free, such as window shopping and viewing historic landmarks, Art Nouveau architecture, and fabulous window displays. However, the fashion district is the priciest area to explore.

15 Best Time To Visit Milan

• Best time to go to Milan: Late spring (April to May) and early fall (September to October). They offer the best weather but straddle the peak tourist season.
• Best time to shop in Milan: Summer sales typically start on the first Saturday of July. Winter sales start after the holidays at the beginning of January.

April to May

Spring is a wonderful time of year to visit Milan. The days remain warm in the 60s to 70s, but nights can be cool. Bring layers to adjust to the changing temperatures while making the most of the delightful adventures in Milan during the spring season.

June to August

Peak tourist season in Milan is hot. Average temperatures range in the mid-80s, but the days will feel even warmer due to humidity. Expect crowded streets and long lines at attractions.

September to October

Fall is another great time to be in Milan. Temperatures drop to the mid-70s in September and the 60s in October. Milan Fashion Week is in September (spring/summer edition), so for tourists planning to travel at this time, book everything well in advance.

November to March

Winter in Milan is cold. Temperatures range from the 40s during the day to the 20s at night. It’s a great time to visit Milan to see the top attractions without long lines and streets packed with tourists.

November sees the most rain, December’s Christmas lights and markets draw crowds, and February is another Milan Fashion Week (fall/winter edition), so make sure to book accommodations in advance.

Related: One Of The Most Beautiful Places In Switzerland Can Easily Be Reached From Milan, Italy

16 Best Ways To Get Around Milan

It’s easy to get around Milan. Between walking, the metro, or the historic trams, tourists have plenty of options to navigate the city.

Walk

Milan is definitely a walkable city, but the city is 70 square miles. Tourists may want to mix walking with public transportation to see more of the city in a shorter timeframe.

Tram and Subway

The trams are historic and probably the most unique method of transport, but the subway may be the most convenient. The subway stops at most top attractions in Milan.

• Cost: Approximately $1.65 per person per single trip (for both tram and subway). For travelers planning to rely predominantly on public transportation, consider a book of 10 tickets (approximately $15 per person)

Car

It’s not easy to drive in Milan. Expect traffic. And parking isn’t easy.

Taxis

Metered taxis are readily available but can be expensive. Taxis stands are spread throughout the city and near most attractions and central hotels. Ubers are also available in Milan.

17 Where To Eat In Milan

In Milan, the food is every bit as good as the shopping. With so many delicious delicacies to devour, why not try one of the many fun foodie tours or cooking classes in Milan?

Breakfast

Davide Longoni

Master baker Davide Longoni’s newest hotspot is in the Mercato Centrale. Fresh, hot bread and fresh, hot pastries. The best way to start the day!

• Address: Via Giovanni Battista Sammartini, 2, 20125 Milano
• Hours: Saturday to Thursday, 9 AM to 11 PM; Friday & Saturday, 9 AM to midnight
• Recommended: Any and all of the pastries!

Lunch

Ratana

For a creative spin on local favorites—try Ratana. Chef Cesare Battisti changes the menu seasonally. They use only the highest quality ingredients and have an extensive wine list. In addition to their a la carte menu at lunch, Ratana offers a business lunch for $26, which includes a main dish, a glass of wine, coffee and water.

• Address: Via G. de Castillia 28, 20124 Milano
• Hours: Daily, 12 PM to 2:30 PM, 7 PM to 11 PM
• Recommended: Risotto alla Vecchia Milano

Dinner

Langosteria

Possibly the best seafood fine-dining establishment in Milan, Langosteria combines traditional Italian cuisine with a contemporary approach. Despite the fine-dining title, the ambiance is friendly, warm, and comfortable.

• Address: Via Savona, 10, 20144 Milano
• Hours: Monday & Tuesday, 7 PM to midnight; Wednesday through Saturday, 12 PM to 3 PM and 7 PM to midnight
• Recommended: The Chef’s Tasting Menu is quite the experience!

Related: Eat Your Way Through Italy: 10 Culinary Tours To Explore The Country & Its Food

18 Where To Stay In Milan

There are so many chic hotels in Milan, but there are also some great budget-friendly options as well!

Luxury

Galleria Vik

Galleria Vik is as unique as it is luxurious. Located in the heart of Milan and inside the Galleria Vittorio Emanuelle II, art and design play an integral role in the ambiance of this special accommodation. Tourists staying at the Galleria Vik will have the city of Milan at their fingertips while getting to stay inside a historical monument.

• Address: Via Silvio Pellico 8, 20121 Milan, Milano
• Amenities: restaurant, room service, free Wi-Fi, valet parking, bar/lounge
• Cost: $$$

Mid-Level

Lancaster Hotel

The Lancaster Hotel is centrally located in Milan. It’s a quiet 3-star boutique that’s housed in an old Art Nouveau building. There are lots of clubs, bars and restaurants nearby, and many of Milan's main attractions, like the Sforza Castle and the Duomo, are just a quick walk away.

• Address: Via Abbondio Sangiorgio 16, 20145 Milan
• Amenities: bar/lounge, free Wi-Fi, coffee shop, flat-screen TV, room service, complimentary newspapers in the lobby
• Cost:$

Budget

Eco Hotel Milan

The Eco Hotel Milan is a great budget-friendly option when traveling to Milan. Just a few miles from Sempione Park and Castello Sforesco, this hotel offers friendly staff and is close to the Metro station, making traveling around Milan on a budget a piece of cake.

• Address: Via Vittorio Scialoia 3, 20161 Milan
• Amenities: restaurant, room service, coffee shop, flat-screen TV, bar/lounge, free Wi-Fi
• Cost: $

19 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Milan

Start the day with a hot cup of coffee and a warm pastry at Davide Longoni's newest hotspot in the Mercato Centrale. Relax, people-watch, and soak up the scenery before heading to The Quadrilatero della moda. After all, a perfect afternoon in the fashion capital of the world will include some shopping!

Wander the streets between Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga, Milan's most famous shopping streets. Still haven't pulled the trigger? Head to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuell II. The gorgeous glass-domed shopping arcade has more high-end boutiques that may have the perfect designer item to remember the perfect trip to Milan. Stop for lunch here and enjoy another cup of coffee to regain some strength to explore some of the many unique attractions Milan has to offer.

For football fans, head to San Siro Stadium. For opera lovers, tour the Teatro all Scala Opera House. And for art enthusiasts, check out Italy's most famous painting, Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper (1498), inside the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, or explore Pinacoteca di Brera Art Gallery for great artwork from the 13th century to the 20th century.

In the evening, head to the Naviglio Grande. Celebrate seeing the sights and any new purchase(s) with a delicious dinner and a few drinks on the picturesque canal.