10 Best Things to Do in Milan for a First Great Visit

Milan is a unique Italian city that blends its rich cultural heritage with its modern momentum. It is Italy’s finance and business capital, housing the country’s main stock exchange. Milan serves as the headquarters for numerous major Italian companies, like the Banca Commerciale Italiana, once Italy’s largest bank. Even more impressive, Milan is the fashion capital of the world, birthing huge fashion brands like Versace and Armani. Yet, many historic and cultural landmarks, art, and architecture contribute to the ever-expanding list of notable things to do in Milan.

For its reputation alone, Milan draws almost 3.5 million international visitors yearly. Obviously, you want to visit or you are planning to visit Milan if you’re reading this blog! But with the amount this city has to offer, you’re probably wondering what there is to do. Luckily, I got to visit this thriving city in March 2022 and can share all about what to do in Milan. So, here are the best things to do in Milan, especially if it’s your first time!

What is Milan Known For?

As the introduction says, Milan is known for its fashion, art, business, and culture. It’s the city where many flock to admire and buy luxury goods, and with much spending comes a booming economy. Amidst big fashion houses like Versace and Prada are equally famous cultural icons like the Last Supper or Milan Duomo. The Last Supper is the (literal) textbook image of what an Italian mural painting is! But an overlooked part of Milan is its cuisine! Milanese cuisine is unique, with most dishes centering around rice and meat, unlike other pasta-dominant parts of the country. Milan is a fun and thriving city that offers its residents many parts of a great lifestyle. So, let’s get into the top things to do in Milan!

Admire the Duomo di Milano

The largest Gothic cathedral in Italy with a glittering gold Madonnina statue and impressive rooftop.

This massive cathedral took almost 6 centuries to complete! Its construction began in 1386 and ended in 1965. Being Italy’s largest cathedral and one of the largest in the world, the Duomo holds 40,000 people inside—that’s nuts. However, that’s not all the records it holds. The Duomo di Milano is the church with the most statues in the world, with over 3,400 statues, 135 gargoyles, and 700 figures. Of its thousands of statues, the Madonnina statue perched atop the cathedral’s highest spire is the most famous. The small statue is gilded entirely in REAL gold and its stunning appearance symbolizes the city’s heart and soul.

St. Bartholomew Statue

But perhaps an equally infamous statue is the St. Bartholomew statue inside the Duomo. The St. Bartholomew skinned statue is a marble representation of the apostle’s agony. The saint was one of the twelve apostles who was executed because of his Christian faith. The skinned and naked apostle appears to wear a drape of cloth when it, in fact, is his skin. The sculptor, Marco d’Agrate, carefully sculpted St. Bartholomew’s body with incredible detail to his muscles, bones, and veins. He was a product of his time when the 16th century was particularly invested in the study and presentation of human anatomy.

When visiting the Duomo, you have the option of going inside and also visiting its incredible, panoramic rooftop. The Duomo is one of the few churches in the world that you can walk on. It has many rooftop terraces that offer an amazing view of Milan on a clear day. The rooftop terraces are made of Candoglia marble which is coveted due to its durability, purity, and striking white color.

My Experience

Walking around the rooftop was one of my highlights in Milan. I especially liked getting to see the intricately designed spires up close and exploring a marble treasure trove. I recommend going either in the morning or around sunset time. The former is less crowded and the latter provides the best views of sunset in Milan. The interior of the Duomo is just as stunning and I loved admiring the large stained glass panels inside.

Tip: Tickets are required to enter the cathedral and to visit the rooftop terraces. Make sure you book tickets ahead of time so you’re not stranded at the door! They sell out fast. Also, admire the view of the Duomo from the front at the Piazza de Duomo.

Shop or Meet People at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

The first and oldest shopping mall in the world.

First designed in 1861 by architect Giuseppe Mengoni, the Galleria was a part of a mid-19th century urban renewal plan for Milan. It was completed in 1877, but just days before the Galleria’s inauguration, Megnoni fell from the building’s scaffolding and tragically passed away. While the architect didn’t live to see the fruits of his labor, the building’s architecture was one of its kind. The architecture is Neo-Renaissance, but it’s most famous for its modern and impressive iron and glass roof. The roof is my favorite part of the shopping center!

The Galleria was constructed during a turbulent time in Italy, so its design has strong patriotic motifs to emphasize peace. It was named after the first king of Italy, Vittorio Emanuele II. The floor of the building is a series of mosaics representing the coat of arms of Italy’s main cities: a red cross on a white background for Milan, the she-wolf for Rome, the lily for Florence, and the bull for Turin. A fun visitor tradition is to spin on their heels on the testicles of the bull mosaic for good luck.

The Galleria is home to some of Italy’s oldest restaurants and shops, like the almost 200-year-old Biffi Caffe. It also has many high fashion brand stores like Prada and Gucci. Besides its shopping allure, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a central gathering point in Milan due to its central location. You can’t miss its gigantic arch entrance donned with dozens of sculptures.

My Experience

I honestly just went to see the Galleria’s architecture and admired its glass and iron roof. You’ll find the shopping mall often crowded, with people shopping, walking around, and taking photos inside and outside. Because of its high foot traffic, it was a great place to people-watch. If I were to splurge on a new bag, I’d want to get it from the Galleria for its iconic history!

Stroll Around Sforzesco Castle

An old castle smack-dab in the middle of a modern city.

The origins of the castle date back to the 14th century when it was built over old Roman fortifications by Galeazzo II Visconti. Over the centuries, it underwent numerous transformations, expansions, and reconstructions. The castle’s current form primarily reflects Francesco Sforza’s work, who was the Duke of Milan in the mid-15th century, and after whom the castle is named. The castle’s design is a blend of Medieval, Renaissance, and later architectural styles, reflecting the various rulers and epochs it has seen. Large defensive walls surround the castle which feature massive corner towers.

The most important feature Francesco Sforza introduced to the castle is the central tower, Torre del Filarete. It’s the tallest tower compared to the corner towers and features a clock with a sun motif inspired by the Sforza coat of arms. Along with the Duomo’s Madonnina, the tower is also a symbol of Milan, and castle visitors can enter or exit the castle through its arch.

My Experience

Honestly, I didn’t even put this on my list of places to go when I was in Milan. But I found myself with extra time before meeting a friend in front of the Duomo and thought, why not? And I am so glad I went. The castle is huge and has a lot of amazing architecture. It also hosts a lot of exhibits and even a museum (or two)! It’s also a lot bigger than I expected and I ended up wandering around for an hour just taking it all in. It’s also conveniently located with Sempione Park which is stunning.

I wish I had known that Michelangelo’s last work was in this castle! I would’ve loved to see it. The unfinished sculpture “Rondanini Pieta” was the great artist’s last work, upon which he labored until just days before his death.

Walk Through Sempione Park

The largest public park in Milan!

This approximately 95-acre (38.6 hectares) public park is a favorite among locals and tourists alike for leisurely walks, picnics, and outdoor activities. The park is located behind the Sforzesco Castle, serving as its expansive garden, designed in the 19th century in the style of English gardens. Not only does it add to the grandeur of the castle, but the park also provides a serene contrast to the urban bustle of Milan. It features a large artificial lake located in the middle of the park that houses several birds, along with multiple green meadows, trees, and flower bushes.

One of the park’s main attractions is the Arco della Pace or the Peace Arch. The Arco della Pace is a grand neoclassical triumphal arch located at the northwest entrance of Sempione Park. The arch’s origins date back to the early 19th century when Napoleon Bonaparte commissioned it. Initially intended to celebrate his victories, its construction halted after his defeat at Waterloo. The arch was eventually completed under Emperor Francis I of Austria’s rule and dedicated to peace. It’s the gateway between the bustling Corso Sempione Street and the park.

My Experience

I strolled around the park after visiting the Sforzesco Castle and loved its light and relaxing atmosphere. There were couples, families, and people walking around enjoying the ambiance. I especially loved the lake and watching the birds play and paddle around. The day I went there was a military class graduation ceremony happening at the Peace Arch and I got to listen to a free military band concert! It was really cool to see a slice of Milan life—so serendipitous!

See the Last Supper at the Santa Maria delle Grazie

Visit the home to one of the most iconic artworks in the world which are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Situated in the heart of Milan, the church and convent are easily accessible and are frequented by tourists, art enthusiasts, and history buffs from around the world. The construction of the church and the attached Dominican convent began in 1463 under the well-known Gothic architect Guiniforte Solari commanded by Duke Francesco I Sforza. This was a period when the Sforza dynasty was establishing itself as the ruling house of Milan, and such monumental constructions served as both religious and political statements. While the initial construction under Solari embraced the Gothic style, the subsequent involvement of Donato Bramante in the late 15th century introduced Renaissance elements to the structure. Bramante, known for his innovative architectural designs, was responsible for the strikingly beautiful tribune and the cloisters of the convent.

The church’s construction and its subsequent modifications were heavily patronized by the Sforza family, particularly Ludovico Sforza. Under his reign, Milan saw a significant cultural and artistic renaissance, and his court was a hub for artists, intellectuals, and scientists. It was Ludovico who commissioned Leonardo da Vinci to paint “The Last Supper” in the convent’s refectory which still stands in its original place today.

The Last Supper

Painted between 1495 and 1498 on a wall of the refectory, this fresco captures the dramatic moment when Jesus Christ announces that one of his disciples will betray him. Due to the experimental technique Leonardo used, the painting deteriorated not long after its completion. However, during World War II, aerial bombings caused significant damage to parts of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Thankfully, protective measures safeguarded “The Last Supper,” and it survived the bombings. Over the centuries, the painting has undergone various restoration attempts to preserve its beauty and detail. In 1980, Santa Maria delle Grazie and “The Last Supper,” were designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites, recognizing their cultural, historical, and artistic significance.

My Experience

I knew I wanted to see the Last Supper when visiting Milan and booked my ticket way ahead of time. The church strictly regulates visitor access so it’s necessary to book your ticket early. Additionally, they only allow a limited number of people in the refectory at a given time to preserve the painting. Because of the painting’s popularity, tickets sell out weeks in advance, and the ticket office turns away visitors because there are no more available tickets.

Once you get to the church, you check in at the front ticket desk and then wait around until a staff member calls your group time. You have to check in early, otherwise, the office will give your ticket to someone else. Then, once you’re inside the church, the staff guide splits the group into groups of 15 to enter the convent to view the Last Supper. It’s incredibly organized and a very smooth viewing experience. You can get quite close to the painting and it’s surreal to see it with your own eyes.

Visit the Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio

One of the oldest and most important Milan churches known for its Lombard Romanesque architecture.

The original church on this site was consecrated by St. Ambrose, Bishop of Milan and Doctor of the Church, himself in 386 AD, making it a foundational element of Milan’s early Christian history. It’s famous for its architecture, in which the Basilica is one of the most beautiful examples of the Lombard Romanesque style. The church building is made of beautiful clay red-colored bricks that demonstrate great brickwork, with sturdy columns and broad arches that are an iconic part of the church’s facade.

It’s also famous for being the burial place of St. Ambrose, who served as the Bishop of Milan from 374 to 397 AD. St. Ambrose is known for his theological writings and hymns, as well as his scholarship, oratory skills, leadership, and defense of the Church. A Renaissance man before the Renaissance, his legacy deeply influenced Milanese ecclesiastical traditions. As a result, the basilica holds immense religious significance for Milanese people.

My Experience

I had a personal reason as to why I wanted to visit this Catholic church. My university alma mater, UCLA (Go Bruins!), is famous for Royce Hall, an iconic building that is the university’s defining image. When I was doing research for my Milan trip, I was surprised to find a building that looked almost identical to the beloved Royce Hall. It was then I found out that our iconic campus building was modeled after this church’s facade! Naturally, I HAD to go.

It was so cool to see the building that inspired UCLA’s Royce Hall and Powell Library; it was a full-circle moment! The church itself is also very peaceful, with little foot traffic, so you have the whole church to yourself. This was one of my favorite locations to go to in Milan because of its ties to my alma mater. But even if you’re not a Bruin, Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio is a lovely church to visit.

Enjoy Coffee at the Milan Starbucks Reserve Roastery

Have coffee in the city where Howard Schultz, the former CEO of Starbucks, got his inspiration for the cafe culture that Starbucks is now famous for.

Schultz visited Milan in the early 1980s and was fascinated by the espresso bars. He observed the intimate role these coffeehouses played in the daily life of Italians: from the morning rituals of espresso and pastries to afternoon conversations over cappuccinos. The cafes were not just places to consume coffee but vital community hubs, fostering social interaction and community. Schultz saw an opportunity to replicate this coffeehouse culture on a global scale, leading to the Starbucks we recognize today. The Milan Roastery, therefore, can be seen as a full-circle moment, bringing Starbucks back to the city where its modern vision was born.

Introducing Starbucks in Italy, especially in Milan, was not without risks. Italy is a country where local cafes and traditional espresso bars dominate, and the standard for coffee is exceedingly high. The Reserve Roastery in Milan is the most opulent and luxurious reserve roastery of them all but designed to integrate Starbucks with the local Milan essence. The roastery occupies a historic building that once served as the city’s stock exchange and a post office. The structure dates back to the early 20th century, and Starbucks has gone to great lengths to retain and restore many of its original features. Inside, there are numerous custom artworks, including a floor mosaic that pays homage to the history of the building and the city. The roastery in Milan is special compared to the others, with great efforts to celebrate Italian coffee culture while bringing a luxurious and modern twist.

My Experience

I visited the Milan Starbucks Reserve Roastery in the early evening after visiting the Duomo. The historic post office building is stunning and also huge! Entering the roastery is like entering a new universe; it’s an immersive experience that takes you through coffee roasting, tasting, and pairing. Honestly, I didn’t have high expectations for the coffee itself since I’ve been to other reserve roasteries and wasn’t satisfied with those coffees. But the Milan beverages were so good! I had a hazelnut iced latte which they called an Il Piemontese, which was two shots of espresso over hazelnut-infused milk served over ice. Their roastery drink creations are excellent and it seems like there was a lot of effort made to make each drink delicious and thoughtful. This is my favorite Starbucks Reserve Roastery by far and it deserves a visit!

Drink and Dine in the Navigli District

Discover the canal district of Milan and Milan’s historical relationship with water.

The name “Navigli” is from the Italian word for canals. Historically, Milan was crisscrossed by a series of waterways that were used for transportation, irrigation, and defense. These canals were instrumental in transporting the marble used for building the Duomo di Milano, as well as for city defense and trade. Without the system of canals, Milan would not be the city it is today. Notable figures, including Leonardo da Vinci, designed the canals and worked on the system of dams and sluices that regulated water flow between the canals in the late 15th century. There have been discussions and plans over the years to restore and revitalize some of the lost canals due to their cultural and historical importance.

Over the years, many of Milan’s canals were covered or drained, but the Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese, two major canals, remain. The district has transformed into a hub of culture and nightlife, renowned for its “aperitivo” culture, a Milanese tradition of evening drinks accompanied by generous food spreads. The streets alongside the canals are lined with numerous bars, restaurants, boutiques, art studios, and vintage shops. While beautiful in the day, the area truly comes alive in the evening.

My Experience

I was lucky enough to stay in an accommodation right on one of the major canals in Navigli during my Milan trip. It’s a lively district that has some great bars and restaurants, and it also has morning cafes that open right in front and even on the canal! It’s the best place to grab a drink or dinner, and the canals in the evening are nice to walk through. I met some friends for drinks in Navigli and had a great time.

Try Milanese Cuisine

Taste regional dishes specific to Milan.

Milanese cuisine, like other regional Italian cuisines, has its unique flavors, techniques, and signature dishes. Unlike coastal regions of Italy like Sicily or Liguria, Lombardy is landlocked. Thus, while pasta and seafood dominate in many parts of Italy, rice and farmed meat and produce take center stage in Milan. The Po Valley, which Lombardy is a part of, is one of the most fertile regions in Italy. This supports extensive farming, especially rice, corn, and dairy products which are staples in Milanese dishes. The colder climate has influenced many of its traditional dishes as well, which are made for warmth and sustenance.

Without a doubt, the most famous Milanese dish is Risotto alla Milanese, a creamy risotto infused with saffron. It’s an insanely creamy and aromatic dish that is full of flavor but not heavy. It’s a beautiful, bright yellow color thanks to the addition of saffron. Many Milan restaurants specialize in this one dish and you can find it almost anywhere. Another must-try dish is Cotoletta alla Milanese, or a breaded veal (or sometimes pork) chop, similar to the Austrian Schnitzel. However, the Milanese version is typically thicker and includes the bone. It’s fried in butter until it achieves a golden crispness while still retaining its flavorful juices and moisture.

Finally, you have to experience the Milanese tradition of aperitivo. While not a dish, aperitivo is an important part of Milanese food and social culture. In the early evenings, many bars in Milan offer a buffet of snacks and appetizers that come free when you order a drink. It’s a delightful pre-dinner ritual that showcases a range of local flavors, similar to Spanish tapas. Often, you’ll find bars hosting discounts for aperitivo hour, and it’s a great pre-dinner social outing.

My Experience

I don’t think I’ll ever stop dreaming of risotto alla Milanese… It’s so creamy and delicious with the perfect balance of saffron. Cotoletta alla Milanese is also delicious, with a great crunch and flavorful and moist pork. If you’re a foodie, you have to try some of these traditional dishes in Milan because they’re hard to find outside of the city! And you can’t go wrong with aperitivos, which is probably the perfect place to sample some Milanese snacks and appetizers.

Go Vintage and Secondhand Clothing Shopping

Thrift in the fashion capital of the world.

Milan, renowned globally as a fashion capital, isn’t just a haven for high-end luxury brands and boutiques, it’s also a vintage and secondhand shopping heaven. The most popular neighborhoods in Milan for secondhand and vintage shopping are in the Brera and Navigli districts. Brera is rich in art and history and has numerous vintage shops that offer an array of clothing, accessories, and antiques. It’s a delightful place to stroll around, with its picturesque streets and old-world charm. It’s known as one of the most chic Milan neighborhoods and is located in the central district. Besides canals, the Navigli district hosts a popular monthly antique market, the Navigli Antique Market, which is also a great place to find vintage clothing and accessories among other treasures.

One of Milan’s most famous and celebrated vintage stores, Cavalli e Nastri offers a curated collection of vintage clothing and accessories for everyone. It’s known for being the best vintage shop in Milan because of its unique selection and being the inspiration for many famous designers and stylists. Another popular second-hand shop is Bivio, a chain where you can find trendy pieces at a fraction of their original cost. The selection is eclectic, with both designer and high-street brands.

Though not exclusively a clothing market, East Market is a monthly market that has grown in popularity in recent years. It offers a selection of vintage clothing, accessories, trinket shops, food stalls, and live music. It’s a great market that’s perfect for a slow-paced day out and for hunting for a treasure. Milan is the perfect place where you may stumble upon rare designer pieces from previous collections in secondhand shops.

My Experience

There are tons of vintage and secondhand shops in Milan catering to different levels of price points and fashion styles. I love thrifting in the States, but had limited space in my carry-on for extensive shopping. But, I popped into a pay-by-the-kilo secondhand shop near the Navigli district which had a huge range of selection, from American vintage clothing to designer. I scored a gray cardigan made in Italy for less than 7 Euros which is a beloved clothing souvenir from Italy that I wear often. The next time I’m in Milan, I’d love to check out some more shops or even one of the vintage markets.

Is 2 days in Milan enough?

If you’re looking to see all the tourist attractions, 2 days in Milan is the perfect amount of time. Milan is incredibly walkable and all the famous attractions are close to each other. I recommend staying at least 2 full days in Milan so you can space out the attractions and also get a feel of the local life. However, the pace of a 2-day trip in Milan will be quite fast and packed. Your days will most likely be long, starting in the morning and ending in the evening. As long as your expectations meet travel reality, you’ll have a great time doing things in Milan.

Is it worth visiting Milan?

Yes! Milan is full of history, culture, art, food, and fashion. It’s a bustling city that has pockets of green and calm, and many historical buildings that blend tradition with modern life. While it doesn’t have as many famous attractions compared to those in Florence or Rome, I think Milan excels at showing tourists what modern Italian life is like. There are so many restaurants, shops, and bars that travelers and residents alike are excited to experience. However, some of my friends have found it a little boring after spending a week there. They ran out of things to do and ended up doing day trips out of the city in search of something new.

Honorable Mention: Lake Como Day Trip

Lake Como is one of Italy’s most popular lakes and has been a sought-after destination for both travelers and celebrities for centuries. Situated in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, the lake is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, deep blue waters, and picturesque surroundings framed by the Alps. It’s one of the deepest lakes in Europe, with a depth of over 400 meters (1,300 feet)!

Lake Como is home to many historic villas and mansions, some of which have gardens that are open to the public, such as Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello. These villas have often been used as locations for films and television shows due to their beauty and grandeur. As a result of its beauty, Lake Como has long attracted the rich and famous with celebrities like George Clooney having homes by the lake, which adds to its allure and glamor.

Lake Como is easily reachable from Milan, making it a popular day-trip or weekend destination for both locals and tourists. A day trip to Lake Como from Milan offers a refreshing break from the city’s hustle, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of one of Italy’s most iconic landscapes. I didn’t get to visit Lake Como on my Milan trip, unfortunately, but many of my friends who’ve been there love its scenery! It’s definitely an area I want to see the next time I’m in Milan.

Enjoy Milan!

You’re in the world’s fashion capital and the economic hub of Italy, so take advantage of its unique intersection of art, business, and culture. Milan is a great city to roam around, with walkable streets and bustling neighborhoods. Admire its churches and iconic paintings, take a stroll in one of its public parks, and enjoy the food! Hopefully, this list of things to do in Milan helps you have a great trip, especially if it’s your first time visiting the city. Happy travels!

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