The Best Things To Do In Milan

Endless shopping, fine dining and heaps of exploring. A simple but winning combination which is guaranteed to ensure your vacation is always thoroughly enjoyable. And that is what you can look forward to in one of Italy’s trendiest cities. Milan is one of Italy’s cities which is closest to its northern border and is situated relatively close to Switzerland. It lies to the northeast of Turin, the north of Genoa while Verona and Venice lie to its east and Bologna and Florence are located to its south east. If your dream vacation involves shopping for exquisite designer gear, sampling world famous food and wine and exploring all the sights and sounds of a new city, you will love experiencing all that Milan has to offer.

No matter what part of Italy you happen to be vacationing in, Milan is merely a flight away and once you arrive at its bustling Malpensa airport, you will be able to get to the city center in less than an hour by train. Taking the bus is also another option although the trip would last about 90 minutes. Alternatively, you could also opt for traveling by high speed train. A journey from Italy’s main cities or from neighboring countries such as France, Spain and Switzerland will see you arrive at the city’s principal station, Milano Centrale. Once you arrive in Milan, you will find that its extensive tram network is one of the best ways of getting around. Alternatively, you could also choose to travel by bus, rail or metro, or even walk since most tourist spots are pretty close to each other.

A visit to the world’s fashion capital is a golden opportunity to treat yourself to designs from some of the industry’s biggest names. One of the best places to start off your shopping adventure is the Via Montenapoleone which not only contains a plethora of shops and jewelers, but also contains cafes where you will be able to grab a bite to keep your energy levels up while having loads of fun. Via Dante and the Corso Vittorio Emanuele are also worth marking out on your map while Via della Spiga is a veritable shopper’s paradise. Fans of fashion mogul, Giorgio Armani will be thrilled at being able to visit Via Manzoni which contains the brand’s megastore.

During your vacation in Milan, you will also be able to admire Renaissance masterpieces and the Bagatti Valsecchi Museum is an excellent starting point for viewing these stunning works of art. Pinacoteca Ambrosiana is also another ideal venue for admiring paintings by famous artists such as Carvaggio, Leonardo and Raphael.

HERE ARE OUR TOP PICKS FOR THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN MILAN…

Da Vinci’s Last Supper (Il Cenacolo)

When you visit Milan, make sure you see Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper, the magnificent mural painted onto a wall of the former Dominican convent of Santa Maria delle Gracie. This iconic and imposing mural is 4.6-metres high and 8.8-metres wide, and has been subject to constant and ongoing restoration. Visitor entry is restricted so tickets are essential!

Milan Cathedral (Milan Duomo)

A great way to introduce yourself to the historic beauty of Milan is to visit the Milan Cathedral (Milan Duomo). Dating back to the fourteenth-century, the cathedral towers over the centre of the city, and as you approach the entrance, gaze up at the spikes and towers that reflect Northern Gothic architecture. As your eyes adjust to the subdued ambience of the interior, explore the stained glass, nave and altars, then take the lift to the roof and enjoy the magnificent views to finish your visit.

Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco)

Characterised by its red brickwork and massive towers and walls, a visit to Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco) takes you back to the days when such castles were crucial to defence. Admire the architecture, and then explore the museums and galleries that are now housed within its walls. Stroll through the galleries and explore the wide array of art, sculptures, and musical instruments collected since the castle’s origins back in the fifteenth-century.

Parco Sempione

Escape the hustle and bustle of Milan with a visit to the Parco Sempione – right in the middle of the city! Spread over more than 100-acres, take time to relax, and people-watch as the locals go about their day. Built in the 1800’s – and rejuvenated in the 1990’s – enjoy the lake and the gardens, and climb the tower for amazing views of the city!

Brera

As you explore Milan, make sure you stroll through the charming district of Brera. Wander the narrow-paved streets, and stop in at the chic cafes and designer shops that are scattered along the walkways. Brera is quite close to the city centre, so it’s not hard to get here, and you’re sure to experience the real Italian way of life when you visit.

La Scala Opera (Teatro alla Scala)

Visit the breathtaking opera house – La Scala Opera (Tuatro alla Scala) – and enjoy the grandeur of the gold and red velvet interior, and the beautiful acoustics fill the hall. Built in the 1770’s – with a capacity for 3,000 patrons – even if you can’t make a performance, it is still possible to tour the museum, which displays paintings, costumes and historical documents.