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12 Things to do & Places to visit in Milan, Italy

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Uncovering the most relevant hot spots to visit in Milan wasn't easy but after weeks of research I am happy to share my bucket list

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gelato in Milan in Milan, Italy Duomo cathedral in Milan, Italy italian cookies in Milan, Italy matt at the duomo in Milan, Italy

Milan, a jewel in Italy's crown, is a city steeped in rich history and stunning architecture, making it a must-visit destination in Europe. To help you maximize your time in this vibrant city, I've curated a list of top attractions in Milan, so you can skip the hassle of extensive research.

Map

Best Places for Travel in Milan

  • 1. Gelato at GROM

    Best gelato ice cream in the world - mark my words

  • 2. Duomo

    Fifth largest cathedral in the world and one of the most amazing places I have been

  • 3. Naviglio District

    A hive of night time activity all year round and a mecca for Milan’s 20 and 30 somethings

  • 4. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

    One of the most breathtaking malls in the world, especially the ceiling

  • 5. La Tavernetta da Elio

    Great local Tuscan restaurant

  • 6. Castello Sforzesco

    Luxury Ducal residence and a fortress during the French domination

real italian espresso in Milan, Italy matt at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, Italy milan central station in Milan, Italy milan central in Milan, Italy

Start your Milanese adventure by flying into Linate Airport, conveniently closer to downtown Milan than Malpensa Airport. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in local flavors with a freshly brewed espresso and a prosciutto sandwich at the Grand Cafe near the arrivals area.

  • 7. Milano Christmas Market

    If you are here during the winter make sure to check the market behind the Duomo and try their Pistachio Marzipan

  • 8. Teatro alla Scala

    One of the most popular and oldest theaters in the world

  • 9. Brera District

    Richest neighborhood in downtown Milan filled with incredible architecture

  • 10. San Bernardino alle Ossa

    Known as the bone church, is a spooky and bizarre chruch

  • 11. Via Monte Napoleone

    Luxury shopping street with famous Italian brands

  • 12. Milano Centrale

    Railway station with architecture from the Facistic Italian times

gorgeous mall in Milan - Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, Italy gorgeous mall in Milan - Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

To optimize your journey in downtown Milan, follow the chronological order of the attractions listed below. This itinerary is designed to save you travel time. Additionally, some spots feature dedicated videos and articles for more detailed insights, so be sure to check those out.

milan central in Milan, Italy brera district in Milan, Italy brera district in Milan, Italy brera in Milan, Italy inside duomo in Milan, Italy inside duomo in Milan, Italy porky pig at the christmas market in Milan, Italy italian espresso bar in Milan, Italy

Highlights of my trip included marveling at the iconic Duomo, indulging in luxury shopping at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and savoring authentic Italian gelato from GROM.

incredible Italian cookies at the Christmas Market behind the Duomo Cathedral in Milan, Italy incredible Italian cookies at the Christmas Market behind the Duomo Cathedral

Other must-visit sites include the awe-inspiring Milano Centrale Railway Station, the unique San Bernardino alle Ossa (also known as the bone church), and the local culinary delights like Lampredotto (cow stomach) and Testaroli, which is claimed to be the world's oldest pasta.

San Bernardino Alle Ossa AKA bone church of Milan in Milan, Italy Duomo in Milan, Italy Coletta alle Milanese in Milan, Italy packing my bags at Pearson Airport in Milan, Italy inside the duomo in Milan, Italy christmas shopping doing some shopping in Milan, Italy san bernardino alle ossa in Milan, Italy san bernardino alle ossa in Milan, Italy

In the evening, unwind at the trendy bars near Moscova station or dance the night away at 'THE CLUB', a popular nightclub in the Brera district.

mesmerizing view inside the Duomo in Milan, Italy mesmerizing view inside the Duomo

For a luxurious shopping experience, don't miss Via Monte Napoleone, boasting some of the most prestigious and expensive shops in Italy.

duomo in Milan, Italy Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, Italy caught some action in this panorama of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, Italy Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, Italy Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, Italy Corso behind the duomo in Milan, Italy enjoying some Dutch DJs on the way to Europe - with Headhunterz in Milan, Italy taking Alitalia to Amsterdam in Milan, Italy

While Milan is enchanting year-round, I recommend visiting in the summer for the best experience. My winter visit was a bit chilly and grim, with fewer patios open. However, the winter season does have its charm, especially with the annual Christmas Market, offering an array of amazing local foods.

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