Milan is a vibrant European city brimming with art, work, and fashion. Uncover its rich history and contemporary architecture from futuristic CityLife district to Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest) and Tre Torri.
Napoleon Bonaparte captured Milan in 1796 and began construction of La Scala and intellectual academies. Power then passed to Austria until 1859 when Italy assumed control.
The Old Town
Milan’s Old Town (Centro Storico) lies at its cultural heart. Once protected by medieval city walls, this area has since become the epicenter of Milan’s cultural life – housing some of its most iconic structures like Duomo Cathedral as well as being popular with both tourists and locals alike. Plus, rent prices in this part of town don’t tend to be prohibitively expensive, making finding an apartment here more than possible!
An independent tour is an effective way to immerse yourself in local culture. You’ll find the historic centre accessible via public transport with tram and bus stops at almost every corner – though walking can also provide easy mobility. For an authentic experience, be sure to stop at some of the neighbourhood’s artisanal shops for something truly local!
Treat yourself to an unforgettable evening by booking tickets to see a performance at Teatro alla Scala, one of Europe’s most gorgeous opera houses. Its grand architecture, complete with gilded balconies and draped ceilings create an awe-inspiring ambiance – whether it’s opera, orchestral music or classical ballet that you watch! Your experience here will surely leave an impactful memory!
Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio stands as a landmark and icon of spirituality in Milan. The unique exterior features a 4-sided portico with 2 bell towers of differing heights; inside lies the crypt containing Bishop Ambrose and two of his sons’ remains, along with an odd column known as Devil’s Column which boasts 2 mysterious holes said to have been created when Ambrose kicked demons away!
Brera Academy is another cultural landmark, sharing a building with Pinacoteca di Brera (Milan’s largest museum of art), botanical garden and an astronomical observatory. Also worth seeing is Braidense National Library which is considered one of Italy’s most stunning libraries.
Navigli, Milan’s canal district, offers residents and visitors alike a fun place for strolling or drinking during non-lockdown periods. Lined with bars, restaurants, boutiques and narrow streets that weave throughout them offer unique insights into Milanese history.
The Duomo
The Duomo di Milan is one of Italy’s most iconic landmarks. When visiting, visitors can admire the statues and gargoyles adorning its facade or climb one of its 135 spires for breathtaking city views from its top level; here, Madonnina stands tall as she gazes upon you from its highest spire; also near its main entrance lies a sundial, once used to regulate clocks throughout Milan.
Interior of the cathedral is also breathtakingly beautiful; large marble plates lining its walls encase stunning paintings as well as saintly remains. If you want to get the most out of your visit, we highly recommend signing up for a guided tour – it will provide more insights into its history as well as all those involved with its creation.
History lovers should visit the Baptistery, ordered by St. Ambrose to be constructed with eight sides to symbolize a transition from life before Jesus (represented by the Old Testament) to new Christian life (represented by adding one more side). Excavations conducted for metro construction also revealed remnants of an original octagonal font dating back to 4th century.
Duomo di Milano visitors must see the Holy Nail Relic to fully appreciate its grandeur. In its legend, one of Jesus’s nails from his crucifixion were placed here, and on September 14th of every year one member of Fabbrica climbs up into the apse with an angelic basket decorated with angel wings to retrieve it and return it back into its proper place above.
Visits to the Duomo can take quite a long time in summer months when queues can grow long and tedious. To minimize wait time and maximize enjoyment of this iconic building, we advise visiting early. Doing this also allows visitors to marvel at some of its exquisite details and sculptures which may otherwise remain unseen throughout the day.
Parco Sempione
Milan may be best known for its fashion and nightlife scene, but it also boasts an exquisite green park worth visiting – Parco Sempione is an oasis of calm amidst historic landmarks, medieval castles, modern museums, winding pathways, scenic ponds, charming foot bridges and tranquil surroundings – the ideal setting for relaxing strolls or revitalizing runs alike!
Parco Sempione provides an ideal setting for relaxation. Home to many plant species such as elms, beech trees, linden trees, oak trees and horse chestnut trees as well as animals such as squirrels and hedgehogs; its grounds are well maintained with ample parking and public toilets available for visitors.
Visitors of Milan Parks can also experience a rewarding educational walk led by volunteer ecological guards (GEV). Originally designed for carriages, these pathways have now been marked and illustrated with labels that identify over 50 tree species found throughout the park. Some notable landmarks of interest in Milan include Arco della Pace which symbolizes peace; Castello Sforzesco Castle which stands as one of Milan’s major landmarks; and Branca Tower that offers stunning views over Milan cityscapes.
There are also various cultural institutions located within the park, such as Palazzo dell’Arte or Palace of Art and Arena Civica stadium which plays host to concerts and sporting events. Furthermore, nearby cafes and restaurants offer visitors delicious Italian meals after exploring.
Parco Sempione is Milan’s premier outdoor space and an oasis of serenity in a city bustling with activity. Boasting picturesque walkways, lush lawns and historical monuments – making it a must-see attraction for visitors of Milan – with picturesque walkways connecting picturesque walkways, lush lawns and historical monuments; Parco Sempione provides visitors a refreshing respite from urban living – offering leisure, culture and history all under one roof – make spending a day here an unforgettable experience!
Shopping
Milan may not top many travelers’ must-see cities list for Italy, but it remains an unparalleled shopping paradise with high-end fashion brands and chic clothing shops. Here you can find everything from designer handbags and coats to unique accessories that you won’t find elsewhere – plus annual fashion weeks make Milan a great place for anyone interested in fashion!
Via Tortona, Milan’s main fashion district, features lofts, photography and design studios, showrooms and ateliers – known as the heart of contemporary art in Milan – lofts, photography studios and fashion ateliers all come together here for one dynamic shopping district that anyone interested in fashion must visit. Creative minds also converge here when creating new collections or showcasing their works for sale or exhibition.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is an architectural wonder and must-visit shopping area, boasting grand double walkways in the city center that house some of the world’s premier boutiques offering everything from handmade creations to major fashion brand collections. Winter and summer sales provide excellent opportunities to score some great bargains here!
If you’re in search of something different than designer stores, try Slam Jam; an eclectic and quirky store selling interior design items. Their inventory changes regularly with rare pieces only found here; such as stainless steel bowls from India to woven plates from Rwanda – perfect for bold shoppers with personality! This store should definitely not be missed.
For those preferring more casual fashion, the city offers some incredible vintage and military stores, rock/punk clothing shops and men-specific stores that cater specifically to them.
If you don’t wish to spend much, there are numerous outlet malls throughout the city offering similar labels at much more reasonable prices, including DMAG which provides boutique-like offerings such as Givenchy and Valentino brands.