Places to Visit in Milan

The Pinacoteca Ambrosiana in Milan is a renowned art gallery housing an impressive collection of masterpieces, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, and Raphael. Founded in 1618, it offers visitors a glimpse into Italy's rich artistic heritage. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to experience this cultural treasure.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Santa Maria Delle Grazie is a church located in the northern city of Milan. Popularly also known as Holy Mary of Grace, this church also works as a Dominican convent in the city. Built by famous architects Guiniforte Solari and Donato Bramante, Santa Maria Delle Grazie was built between 1463 to 1467 during the reign of Duke of Milan Francesco I Sforza. The architectural style of this church is regarded as Gothic and Renaissance and is one of the most beautiful churches in Italy.

Other than a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this church is a very popular tourist destination. It is also one of the highly visited historic churches in Milan and Italy. During World War II, due to the involvement of Italy in the war, the church was attacked by a couple of aerial attacks. A major portion of the refectory was demolished and a few walls of the outer side of the church were also destroyed.

Many tourists visit Santa Maria Delle Grazie to see the painting of Last Supper. It is located in a small room inside the church and only a limited number of visitors are allowed to enter the room at a time. Due to the immense popularity of the church and its historic value, the tickets for the church are sold-out in advance.

The sophisticated nineteenth-century shopping arcade Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is situated in the heart of Milan, the global hub of fashion. The building is named after the first King on the Kingdom of Italy, King Vittorio Emanuele II, who is believed to have laid the foundation stone of the building. The massive Galleria makes for a stunning sight, and its enormous dimensions have made it an overnight sensation ever since it was opened to the people of Milan.

Affectionately nicknamed as the “il salotto di Milano” – the drawing room of Milan, it is an enchanting edifice constructed in the 1860s. The elite in Milan has been frequenting this precinct since its inauguration, not just for shopping but for socializing as well.

This prestigious luxury-shopping destination hosts emporiums of premium brands, multinational labels, and chic eateries for the gastronomes. This is surely the place to visit if you want to witness high-street fashion and enjoy a coffee or an aperitif at the gourmet restaurants. The Galleria is housed inside a neoclassical precinct that is four-story-high.

Replete with polished marble floors, a gleaming glass-domed ceiling, and brilliant mosaics, its many facets capture the essence of Milan perfectly. The iron and glass construction here presents an extraordinary ambiance to the onlooker and strolling down the portico is like going back in time. So when in Milan, this place is a must-visit, if not for the luxury-shopping, then to appreciate its belle époque splendor.

The golden quadrilateral, a network of highways spanning thousands of kilometers, stitches together India's vast expanse. Forming a geometric masterpiece, it connects Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata, the nation's major metropolises. This engineering marvel accelerates commerce, tourism, and connectivity, fostering economic growth and national integration.

Leonardo's Vineyard or La Vigna di Leonardo is a tasteful private residence tucked between the gardens of Casa Degli Atellani. It is just across the Santa Maria Delle Grazie basilica, where the 'Last Supper' is housed. La Vigna di Leonardo is the residence where the Renaissance maestro lived while working on the 'Last Supper' among other exceptional works over twenty years. 

Piazza Mercanti is a historic square in the heart of Milan, Italy. Surrounded by medieval buildings, it once served as the city's commercial and political center. The square is home to the 13th-century Palazzo della Ragione and the Loggia degli Osii. It remains a charming spot to explore Milan’s rich medieval history and architecture.

Piazza della Scala in Milan is a historic square known for its cultural significance. Located near the famous La Scala opera house, it features beautiful architecture and sculptures. The square is a hub for art, culture, and history, with the iconic statue of Leonardo da Vinci at its center. It’s a must-see destination in Milan.

San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is a treasured gem of Italy and is known for its breathtaking and well-preserved artwork, awe-inspiring frescos, and luxurious gold embellished interior. It is placed in Milan city center and is in close vicinity of some of the ancient historical places in Milan.

San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is one of the most lovely churches in Milano and has significant heritage value attached to it. It was built during Renaissance times and its building presents a perfect example of 16th-century paintings, expertise, and architects.

The church is also known as the ‘Sistine Chapel of Milan’ as it possesses stunning frescoes designed by the artists of the Leonardo era. It served as an ex-convent and was the most important Benedictine convent in Milan. 

This preserved treasure of Milan attracts history enthusiasts and art lovers from all over the world for its well-conserved beauty and best kept secrets. The church is actually a complex with two different parts separated by a decorated central wall.

The front part is small but serves as the place for worship for the public. Masses and other religious practices are held here regularly. The bigger part was earlier a monastery and was known as the Hall of the Nuns. This monastery of the church has developed into Milan's Civic Archaeological Museum. The museum has in store a huge collection of marvelous artifacts from ancient Etruscan and Mediolanum times.  Now the place is also used for hosting ceremonies and concerts as well.

San Nazaro in Brolo is a historic church in Milan, Italy, dating back to the 4th century. Renowned for its Romanesque architecture and significant art collection, the church showcases ancient frescoes and stunning architectural details. A cultural gem, it provides visitors with a glimpse into Milan's rich artistic and religious history.

A History buffs dream, Bagatti Valsecchi is another historic house-museum built by the Bagatti Valsecchi brothers from the years 1878 to 1887. It is located in the Montenapoleone district of downtown Milan, northern Italy and is one of the Milan tourist places. The museum is decorated in the ducal palace style with exhibits from the Quattrocento up to the 16th century.

Nestled in the heart of Milan, Duomo Cathedral Square (Piazza del Duomo) stands as a breathtaking testament to the city's rich history, architectural prowess, and vibrant cultural scene. As one of Milan's most iconic landmarks, the square attracts millions of visitors each year, all eager to immerse themselves in its grandeur and charm.

The centerpiece of Duomo Cathedral Square is undoubtedly the magnificent Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral). This awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral, with its intricate spires and elaborate facade, is a marvel of architecture and craftsmanship. The cathedral took nearly six centuries to complete, and its beauty and grandeur reflect the dedication and skill of countless artisans. Visitors to the square are immediately captivated by the sight of the Duomo, which stands as a symbol of Milan's historical and cultural significance.

Stepping into the square, one is greeted by a lively atmosphere filled with the hum of conversation, the aroma of Italian cuisine from nearby cafes, and the sight of locals and tourists alike enjoying the space. The square serves as a central gathering place, where people come to relax, socialize, and take in the stunning views. The numerous benches and open spaces provide perfect spots to sit and appreciate the surrounding architecture.

Porta Venezia in Milan is a vibrant and culturally rich district that perfectly blends historical significance with modern urban life. The area is centered around the historic Porta Venezia gate, originally known as Porta Orientale. This neoclassical gateway, designed by Giuseppe Piermarini in the 19th century, once marked the entrance to the city. Its grand columns and arches stand as a testament to Milan’s architectural heritage, providing a striking welcome to the area and a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.

Beyond its historical appeal, Porta Venezia is home to several notable cultural landmarks. The Modern Art Gallery (Galleria d'Arte Moderna), housed in the elegant Villa Reale, showcases an impressive collection of 19th and 20th-century artworks, including pieces by renowned Italian artists. Nearby, the Natural History Museum (Museo Civico di Storia Naturale) features fascinating exhibits on paleontology, zoology, and mineralogy, making it a great educational experience for visitors of all ages.

The Duomo di Milano is a magnificent Gothic cathedral located in Milan, Italy, renowned for its intricate architecture and stunning facade. It stands as a symbol of the city's rich cultural heritage and religious significance, attracting visitors from around the world to marvel at its beauty.

The Museo Delle Illusioni in Milan is an enchanting attraction that offers visitors a fascinating journey into the world of optical illusions and mind-bending exhibits. Located in the heart of Milan, this museum features a diverse collection of interactive installations that challenge perceptions and engage the senses.

Parco delle Basiliche is a charming urban park located in the heart of Milan, Italy, offering a peaceful green space amidst the bustling city. Covering about 40,700 square meters, the park is bordered by two iconic basilicas, San Lorenzo Maggiore and Sant'Eustorgio, giving the park its name. It serves as a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking relaxation, outdoor activities, or a place to unwind.

The Last Supper, located in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, is a monumental mural painting by Leonardo da Vinci, created between 1495 and 1498. This iconic masterpiece depicts the moment Jesus announces that one of his disciples will betray him, capturing the dramatic reactions of the twelve apostles. The composition is a masterclass in perspective, with Jesus at the center, creating a vanishing point that draws the viewer's attention.

Corso Magenta is one of Milan's most charming and historic streets, blending old-world elegance with modern vibrancy. Located in the heart of the city, it stretches from Piazza Cordusio to the western edge, offering a scenic route lined with historic buildings, upscale boutiques, cafes, and cultural landmarks. The street is known for its architectural treasures, including the stunning Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to Leonardo da Vinci’s famous mural The Last Supper. This UNESCO World Heritage site draws visitors from around the world.

The Leonardo da Vinci Museum in Milan, known as the "Museo Nazionale Scienza e Tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci," is one of Italy's most important science and technology museums. Located in the heart of Milan, the museum is dedicated to the life and work of the Renaissance genius Leonardo da Vinci. It showcases a vast collection of models, reconstructions, and interactive exhibits based on Leonardo's designs, covering various fields such as engineering, anatomy, and art. 

The Museo Novecento is a museum that houses a collection of art from the 20th century. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and mixed media works from Italian artists such as Giorgio de Chirico, Fausto Melotti, and Ottone Rosai. The Museo Novecento has something to offer everyone, from art lovers to those simply looking to learn more about Florence's rich cultural history.

Via Alessandro Manzoni is a prominent street in the heart of Milan, Italy, named after the famous Italian writer Alessandro Manzoni. Known for his literary masterpiece I Promessi Sposi ("The Betrothed"), Manzoni's influence extends to Milan's cultural and historical landscape. The street stretches through the upscale fashion district, connecting Piazza della Scala to the Porta Nuova area.

San Siro Stadium, officially known as Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, is an iconic football stadium in Milan, Italy. It is home to two of Italy's most renowned football clubs, A.C. Milan and Inter Milan. Opened in 1926, the stadium has a seating capacity of over 75,000, making it one of the largest and most famous in Europe.