Milan, Italy’s fashion and business capital, is a city that effortlessly combines modernity with rich history and culture. From iconic cathedrals to artistic masterpieces and luxury shopping streets, Milan offers something for everyone. In this guide, we explore the top 20 attractions in Milan to help you plan your perfect itinerary.

1. Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral)

Description: The Duomo di Milano is Milan’s most iconic landmark and one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. It’s renowned for its intricate architecture, beautiful stained-glass windows, and panoramic rooftop views.
History: Construction began in 1386 and took nearly six centuries to complete. The cathedral has witnessed significant historical events, including Napoleon’s coronation as King of Italy in 1805.
Google Maps Link: Duomo di Milano
Official Website: Duomo Official Website
Ticket Prices:
– Cathedral Entry: €5.
– Rooftop Access: €10 (stairs), €15 (elevator).
– Combined Tickets: €20.
Opening Hours:
– Cathedral: 8:00 am – 7:00 pm.
– Rooftop: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Duomo Station (Lines M1 and M3).
– By tram or walking if nearby.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Spazio Niko Romito – Offers modern Italian cuisine with stunning views.
– Luini Panzerotti – Known for its delicious stuffed pastries.
Additional Tips: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photos.

2. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Description: Located next to the Duomo, this elegant 19th-century shopping arcade is a masterpiece of architecture, housing luxury shops, cafés, and restaurants.
History: Built between 1865 and 1877, the Galleria is one of the world’s oldest shopping malls and a symbol of Milan’s elegance.
Google Maps Link: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Official Website: Galleria Website
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours: Shops and restaurants have varying hours, typically from 10:00 am – 8:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Duomo Station (Lines M1 and M3).
– By tram or taxi.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Ristorante Savini – Offers fine dining with Italian classics.
– Camparino in Galleria – Famous for its aperitifs and historic ambiance.
Additional Tips: Walk under the stunning glass dome and spin on the bull mosaic for good luck.

3. Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco)

Description: A grand medieval fortress that now houses several museums, including the Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of Musical Instruments, and Michelangelo’s unfinished masterpiece, the Rondanini Pietà.
History: Built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, the castle has played a significant role in Milan’s political and cultural history.
Google Maps Link: Sforza Castle
Official Website: Castello Sforzesco Website
Ticket Prices:
– Museum Entry: €5.
– Free on the first Sunday of each month.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 7:00 am – 7:30 pm (museums have separate hours).
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Cairoli Station (Line M1).
– By walking from the Duomo area.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Trattoria Torre di Pisa – Known for Tuscan specialties.
– Ciacco Gelato – Offers artisanal gelato.
Additional Tips: Combine your visit with a stroll in the adjacent Parco Sempione.

4. Teatro alla Scala (La Scala Opera House)

Description: La Scala is one of the world’s most famous opera houses, renowned for its opulent interior and exceptional performances. Visitors can also explore the museum showcasing opera history and costumes.
History: Opened in 1778, Teatro alla Scala has hosted legendary performances by composers like Verdi and Puccini.
Google Maps Link: Teatro alla Scala
Official Website: La Scala Official
Ticket Prices:
– Museum Entry: €9.
– Performance tickets vary based on seating and event, starting at €25.
Opening Hours:
– Museum: Daily 9:00 am – 5:30 pm.
– Performances: Check the schedule online.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Duomo or Montenapoleone Stations (Lines M1 and M3).
– By tram or taxi.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Il Salumaio di Montenapoleone – Offers upscale Italian dining with a focus on cured meats.
– Ristorante Cracco – Known for its creative take on Italian cuisine.
Additional Tips: Book opera tickets in advance and dress formally for performances.

5. Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper (Cenacolo Vinciano)

Description: Housed in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, the mural of *The Last Supper* is one of Leonardo da Vinci’s most celebrated works and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
History: Painted between 1495 and 1498, this masterpiece survived damage during World War II and has been carefully restored over the years.
Google Maps Link: The Last Supper
Official Website: Cenacolo Vinciano Official
Ticket Prices:
– General Admission: €15.
– Guided tours: Starting at €40.
Opening Hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 8:15 am – 7:00 pm.
– Closed on Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Cadorna Station (Lines M1 and M2).
– By tram or taxi.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Convivium – Known for authentic Italian dishes in a cozy setting.
– Caffè Bistrot Santa Maria – Offers quick bites and coffee.
Additional Tips: Book tickets well in advance, as access is limited to small groups.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit: Early mornings are best for iconic landmarks like the Duomo and The Last Supper to avoid crowds.
Local Cuisine to Try: Don’t miss risotto alla Milanese, ossobuco, and classic Italian espresso from nearby restaurants.
Transportation: Milan’s Metro system is efficient, and most attractions in this section are within walking distance of each other.

6. Pinacoteca di Brera (Brera Art Gallery)

Description: One of Italy’s most renowned art galleries, the Pinacoteca di Brera showcases masterpieces by Italian artists such as Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian.
History: Founded in 1809 by Napoleon, the gallery is housed in a former monastery and has grown into a treasure trove of Renaissance and Baroque art.
Google Maps Link: Pinacoteca di Brera
Official Website: Pinacoteca di Brera Official
Ticket Prices:
– General Admission: €15.
– Reduced Admission: €10.
Opening Hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 9:30 am – 6:30 pm.
– Closed on Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Lanza Station (Line M2).
– By walking from the Brera district.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Nabucco – Known for its traditional Milanese dishes like risotto alla Milanese.
– Il Kaimano – A cozy spot offering Italian comfort food.
Additional Tips: Allocate at least 2–3 hours to explore the gallery and its surrounding Brera district, known for boutique shops and cafés.

7. Parco Sempione

Description: A lush public park located behind Sforza Castle, Parco Sempione is a favorite spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and outdoor activities.
History: Established in 1888, the park was designed to reflect English landscape gardens and includes landmarks like the Arco della Pace and the Torre Branca.
Google Maps Link: Parco Sempione
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 6:30 am – 9:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Cadorna or Cairoli Stations (Lines M1 and M2).
– By walking from Sforza Castle.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Moleskine Café – A trendy café offering great coffee and light bites.
– Ristorante Obicà – Known for its fresh mozzarella and pizza.
Additional Tips: Visit during spring or autumn for the best weather, and climb Torre Branca for panoramic views of the city.

8. Navigli District

Description: The Navigli District is a picturesque area centered around historic canals, offering a lively mix of restaurants, bars, and boutiques. It’s particularly enchanting during sunset.
History: The canals were initially designed in the 12th century to transport goods to and from Milan. Today, they’re a hub of nightlife and cultural events.
Google Maps Link: Navigli District
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free to explore.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7, though restaurants and bars have varying hours.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Porta Genova Station (Line M2).
– By tram or taxi.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Al Pont de Ferr – Offers creative Italian cuisine with canal views.
– La Prosciutteria Milano Navigli – Known for charcuterie boards and local wine.
Additional Tips: Visit on the last Sunday of the month for the famous antiques market along the canals.

9. Santa Maria delle Grazie Church

Description: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this Renaissance church is famous for housing Leonardo da Vinci’s *The Last Supper*.
History: Built in the late 15th century, the church features architectural designs by Donato Bramante and remains a significant religious and cultural site in Milan.
Google Maps Link: Santa Maria delle Grazie
Official Website: Santa Maria delle Grazie
Ticket Prices:
– Entry to the church: Free.
– *The Last Supper*: €15 (must book in advance).
Opening Hours:
– Church: 7:00 am – 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm – 7:30 pm.
– *The Last Supper*: Tuesday to Sunday, 8:15 am – 7:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Cadorna Station (Lines M1 and M2).
– By tram or taxi.
Nearby Restaurants:
– L’Osteria di Santa Maria – Offers traditional Italian dishes in a cozy setting.
– Bacaro del Sambuco – Known for its Venetian-inspired cuisine.
Additional Tips: Arrive early to explore the church, even if you’re not visiting *The Last Supper*.

10. Museo del Novecento

Description: Located near the Duomo, the Museo del Novecento is dedicated to 20th-century art, featuring works by Italian and international artists such as Modigliani and Picasso.
History: Opened in 2010, the museum is housed in the Palazzo dell’Arengario and serves as a hub for modern and contemporary art enthusiasts.
Google Maps Link: Museo del Novecento
Official Website: Museo del Novecento
Ticket Prices:
– General Admission: €10.
– Reduced Admission: €8.
Opening Hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 am – 7:30 pm.
– Closed on Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Duomo Station (Lines M1 and M3).
– By tram or taxi.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Al Cantinone – Offers Milanese specialties like ossobuco.
– Marchesi 1824 – A historic pastry shop known for its elegant desserts.
Additional Tips: Visit the top floor for stunning views of Piazza del Duomo.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit: Morning hours are ideal for museums, while the Navigli District is best explored in the evening.
Local Cuisine to Try: Risotto alla Milanese, charcuterie boards, and gelato are must-try dishes.
Transportation: Milan’s Metro and tram systems provide convenient access to these attractions, but walking is also a great way to explore.

11. San Siro Stadium (Stadio Giuseppe Meazza)

Description: Home to AC Milan and Inter Milan, San Siro Stadium is a must-visit for football fans. The stadium also hosts concerts and events throughout the year.
History: Opened in 1926, the stadium has undergone numerous renovations to become one of the largest and most famous football venues in Europe.
Google Maps Link: San Siro Stadium
Official Website: San Siro Official
Ticket Prices:
– Stadium Tour & Museum: €20.
– Match tickets vary depending on the event.
Opening Hours:
– Tours: Daily 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (match days may vary).
Travel Options:
– By Metro: San Siro Stadio Station (Line M5).
– By tram or taxi.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Ribot – Known for its Florentine steak and Italian classics.
– Osteria delle Corti – Offers authentic Milanese dishes in a cozy setting.
Additional Tips: Book match tickets in advance, and bring a camera to capture the stadium’s impressive scale.

12. Via Monte Napoleone

Description: Milan’s premier luxury shopping street, Via Monte Napoleone is part of the Quadrilatero della Moda and features high-end fashion boutiques like Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton.
History: This historic street dates back to Roman times and became a fashion hub in the 19th century, cementing Milan’s status as a global fashion capital.
Google Maps Link: Via Monte Napoleone
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free to explore (shopping costs depend on your budget!).
Opening Hours: Shops typically open from 10:00 am – 7:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Montenapoleone Station (Line M3).
– By tram or walking.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Cova Montenapoleone – A historic café known for its pastries and coffee.
– Armani/Ristorante – Offers refined Italian cuisine in an elegant setting.
Additional Tips: Visit during Milan Fashion Week for an even more glamorous experience.

13. Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology

Description: This museum celebrates the contributions of Leonardo da Vinci and explores topics ranging from physics to space exploration. Highlights include models of da Vinci’s inventions and a submarine exhibit.
History: Established in 1953, the museum is housed in a former monastery and is Italy’s largest science and technology museum.
Google Maps Link: Leonardo da Vinci Museum
Official Website: Leonardo da Vinci Museum
Ticket Prices:
– General Admission: €10.
– Reduced Admission: €7.50.
Opening Hours:
– Tuesday to Friday: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm.
– Saturday and Sunday: 9:30 am – 6:30 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Sant’Ambrogio Station (Line M2).
– By tram or taxi.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Trattoria Milanese – Known for traditional dishes like cotoletta alla Milanese.
– Osteria del Binari – A charming restaurant with classic Italian fare.
Additional Tips: Allow at least 3 hours to explore the museum fully, especially if visiting with children.

14. Piazza Gae Aulenti

Description: A modern urban square in the heart of Milan, Piazza Gae Aulenti features innovative architecture, fountains, and some of the city’s tallest skyscrapers.
History: Opened in 2012, the square is part of Milan’s urban regeneration project and named after Gae Aulenti, a prominent Italian architect.
Google Maps Link: Piazza Gae Aulenti
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Garibaldi Station (Lines M2 and M5).
– By tram or walking.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Eataly Milan Smeraldo – Offers Italian dishes and gourmet groceries.
– Pandenus – Known for its pastries and light meals.
Additional Tips: Visit in the evening to see the square lit up, creating a magical ambiance.

15. Corso Como 10

Description: A trendy shopping and lifestyle destination, Corso Como 10 combines fashion, art, and design in a single location. It’s perfect for browsing luxury items, books, and art exhibitions.
History: Founded in 1991 by Carla Sozzani, this concept store helped redefine shopping in Milan with its blend of fashion and culture.
Google Maps Link: Corso Como 10
Official Website: Corso Como 10 Official
Ticket Prices: Free entry (shopping and dining costs vary).
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10:30 am – 7:30 pm.
– Sunday: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Garibaldi Station (Lines M2 and M5).
– By walking from Piazza Gae Aulenti.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Ristorante 10 Corso Como – Serves gourmet Italian cuisine in a chic setting.
– Lievito Madre al Duomo – Known for its Neapolitan-style pizzas.
Additional Tips: Don’t miss the rooftop terrace for great views and Instagram-worthy moments.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit: Visit museums in the morning and explore Piazza Gae Aulenti and Corso Como 10 in the late afternoon or evening.
Local Cuisine to Try: Cotoletta alla Milanese, risotto alla Milanese, and artisanal gelato are highly recommended.
Transportation: Milan’s Metro and tram systems make it easy to navigate between these attractions.

16. Cimitero Monumentale (Monumental Cemetery)

Description: The Monumental Cemetery is an open-air museum of art and architecture, featuring elaborate tombs, sculptures, and mausoleums. It’s a serene place to explore Milanese history and artistry.
History: Opened in 1866, the cemetery was designed to consolidate Milan’s burial grounds and has since become a showcase for some of the finest funerary art in Italy.
Google Maps Link: Cimitero Monumentale
Official Website: Cimitero Monumentale Official
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm.
– Closed on Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Monumentale Station (Line M5).
– By tram or taxi.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Ristorante Ratana – Offers modern Milanese dishes like saffron risotto.
– Pasticceria Marchesi – Known for its pastries and coffee.
Additional Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as the cemetery is expansive and filled with intricate monuments to explore.

17. Villa Necchi Campiglio

Description: A beautifully preserved 1930s villa offering a glimpse into Milan’s aristocratic past. The villa features elegant interiors, an art collection, and a lush garden with a pool.
History: Built in 1935 by architect Piero Portaluppi, the villa was home to the Necchi Campiglio family, prominent figures in Milanese society. It was donated to Italy’s National Trust in 2001.
Google Maps Link: Villa Necchi Campiglio
Official Website: Villa Necchi Campiglio Official
Ticket Prices:
– General Admission: €15.
– Reduced Admission: €7.
Opening Hours:
– Wednesday to Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
– Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Palestro Station (Line M1).
– By walking or taxi.
Nearby Restaurants:
– L’Altro Tramezzino – Known for gourmet sandwiches.
– Giardini 36 – Offers creative Italian dishes in a stylish setting.
Additional Tips: Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Giardini Pubblici (Public Gardens).

18. Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio

Description: One of Milan’s oldest churches, the Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, featuring intricate mosaics and a serene courtyard.
History: Originally built in 379 AD by St. Ambrose, Milan’s patron saint, the basilica has undergone several restorations over the centuries. It remains a spiritual and historical landmark in the city.
Google Maps Link: Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio
Official Website: Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio Official
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm, 2:30 pm – 6:00 pm.
– Sunday: 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Sant’Ambrogio Station (Line M2).
– By tram or walking.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Panini Durini – Serves delicious sandwiches and light bites.
– Pizzeria Da Zero – Known for authentic Neapolitan pizza.
Additional Tips: Visit during a service to experience the basilica’s spiritual ambiance.

19. Porta Nuova District

Description: Milan’s futuristic neighborhood, Porta Nuova, is a hub of modern skyscrapers, green spaces, and innovative architecture, including the iconic Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest).
History: This district is the result of a large-scale urban redevelopment project completed in the 2010s, transforming an industrial area into a symbol of Milan’s contemporary identity.
Google Maps Link: Porta Nuova District
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free to explore.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Garibaldi Station (Lines M2 and M5).
– By tram or walking.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Ceresio 7 Pools & Restaurant – Offers upscale dining with rooftop views.
– Soulgreen – Known for its plant-based, sustainable menu.
Additional Tips: Visit at sunset to see the district’s skyscrapers light up against the evening sky.

20. Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa

Description: A unique chapel adorned with human bones and skulls, the Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa is both eerie and fascinating.
History: The ossuary dates back to 1210 when a shortage of burial space led to the creative use of human remains for decoration.
Google Maps Link: Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 7:30 am – 12:30 pm, 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm.
– Closed on Sundays.
Travel Options:
– By Metro: Duomo Station (Lines M1 and M3).
– By walking from central Milan.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Pavé – Known for its freshly baked pastries and coffee.
– Trattoria Milanese – Offers classic Milanese dishes like ossobuco and risotto.
Additional Tips: Not recommended for those who are uncomfortable with the sight of bones, but a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit: Morning hours are ideal for exploring serene sites like the Monumental Cemetery and Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa, while Porta Nuova shines in the evening.
Local Cuisine to Try: Risotto alla Milanese, cotoletta alla Milanese, and authentic Neapolitan pizzas from nearby eateries.
Transportation: Milan’s Metro system efficiently connects these attractions, and walking is a pleasant option for sites near the city center.