Milan is a magical city that oozes history. From the imposing Duomo to the lively streets of the centro storico, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Milan.
Duomo di Milano
The cathedral is the icon of Milan, dedicated to Santa Maria Nascente. Its construction began at the time of Gian Galeazzo Visconti, almost certainly in 1386, and has legendary origins. It is said that the devil presented himself one night to the lord of Milan, offering to save his life in exchange for the construction of a church with many images of him. And the 96 satanic gargoyles would confirm this story..Surely the facade was begun in the first half of the 16th century. The construction lasted until the 19th century. The interior of the Milan Cathedral reveals its vertical gothic essence, with its marble mass having exceptional dimensions. It is one of the biggest gothic cathedrals in Europe, and there are many works of art inside that make it a must-see destination during your visit. Tickets available from 13€
The terraces of the Duomo offer a magnificent view of the city; on the “Gran Guglia”, the highest spire, stands the Madonnina (108.5 meters), emblem of Milan. Â You can decide to reach the terraces of the Duomo on foot or more comfortably by elevator. We recommend booking your ticket in advance to avoid queues on the day of your visit.
The famous painting is located in the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, which is a Renaissance jewel and since 1980 UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the refectory of the former convent of the Dominicans, next to the church, Leonardo da Vinci painted “The Last Supper”(1495-1497). Leonardo’s painting of the Last Supper represents one of the most dramatic moment in the story, when Jesus announces to his apostles “one of you will betray me”. Leonardo was able to bring alive the feelings of the apostles and make this work unique and valuable worldwide. The possibility of seeing the painting is almost a miracle; during the Second World War (August 1943) a bomb destroyed part of the church, leaving Leonardo’s masterpiece intact. Reservation is required for the visit.
San Siro Stadium
First museum set up in an Italian stadium, it tells the story of FC INTER and AC MILAN through unique memorabilia such as jerseys, trophies and cups. Curisously Milan is the only city in Europe where both teams, have won the Champions League. Visiting one of the most iconic stadiums in the world is definitely a must. With the ticket for San Siro you will have the opportunity to visit the locker room and the soccer field.
La Scala Theater
The name “Teatro alla Scala” comes from Regina della Scala, duchess of Milan and wife of Bernabò Visconti, who decided to build a church there in 1381. It was partially demolished to make room for the theater designed by Piermarini in 1778 and from that time considered the temple of opera. The neoclassical style of the facade recalls this historical period. Many people are interested in visiting the Theatre Museum, which is home to a wealth of relics, paintings and statues representing great composers, singers and important people in the theatre. Some of these figures include Maria Callas, Giuseppe Verdi, Arturo Toscanini and Luciano Pavarotti.
Sforza Castle
Started in 1358 thanks to Galeazzo II Visconti, and then rebuilt by Francesco Sforza in 1450, it has been transformed until the late nineteenth century thanks to the 1893 project of architect Luca Beltrami. Today it is home to an important museum complex that includes the Museum of Ancient Art, the Art Gallery, the Museum of Prehistory, the Egyptian Museum, the Museum of Musical Instruments and the civic collections of applied art. In the “Sala delle Assi”, we find Leonardo da Vinci’s fresco painted in 1498. Reservation is recommended
Como Lake, Varenna and Bellagio
During a stay in Milan you can make some very satisfying day trips. We suggest you to visit Lake Como with the villages of Varenna and Bellagio, maybe adding an excursion to Lugano (Switzerland). For other suggestions on day trips from Milan you can visit this page.
If you are planning to visit Milan with your family or with children, we suggest this page that includes the best things to do in Milan with children.