Top Attractions in Milan for an Unforgettable Trip

I hear a lot that there’s not much to see in Milan but we’ve been 3 times to Milan and we love it! Milan, the city of fashion, is also rich in culture and art. Join me to find out what to do and see in 3 days in Milan, grouped according to location to optimize your time and experience.

What to do and see in Milan?

Feel the majesty in Piazza del Duomo, Milan

Visit Duomo di Milano and admire its roof

The Duomo di Milano is a stunning Gothic cathedral that is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Milan. Be sure to climb to the top to admire the architecture details up close and enjoy views of the city. But beware of sellers trying to put corn in your hands to attract the pigeons, they will ask for money and claim that your requested the corn.

Roof of Milan Duomo

Explore Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Right next to Milan Duomo, you’ll find an elegant shopping arcade housing luxury brands. Take a stroll and window shop, stop for a coffee or gelato at one of the many cafes and spin on the bull for good luck!

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan

Palazzo Reale Milano

This former royal palace is now home to a number of museums and art galleries. It’s worth taking a tour to see the luxurious interiors and learn about the history of the palace. Here’s a photo of the palazzo from the Duomo’s roof!

Palazzo Reale Milan

Tour Teatro alla Scala and watch ballet rehearsals backstage

The Teatro alla Scala is one of the most famous opera houses in the world. Take a tour to see the beautiful auditorium and learn about the history of the opera house. You can even watch ballet preparations backstage if you’re lucky!

Inside Teatro alla Scala in Milan

More things to do near Piazza del Duomo

  • Enjoy a delicious Milanese breakfast: A typical Italian breakfast can include: croissant filled with jam, cream or chocolate; cappuccino; maritozzo alla panna which is a bun filled with cream; focaccia, can be selected with different toppings. We tried them all!
  • Visit Santa Maria Presso San Satiro: This small church is a hidden gem that is worth seeking out. It’s famous for its intricate trompe l’oeil architecture.
  • Lunch at Panzerotti Luini: This popular bakery is a great place to try panzerotti, a fried pastry filled with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese.
  • Go shopping in Via Torino: Just across Piazza del Duomo, you’ll find a variety of local and international stores for affordable fashionable shopping!
Sant'Alessandro Church in Milan

Explore Parco Sempione and near by attractions

Tour Castello Sforzesco and admire Michaelangelo’s unfinished masterpiece

This castle was once the home of the Sforza family, the rulers of Milan. It’s now home to a number of museums and art galleries. Be sure to see the Pietà Rondanini, an unfinished sculpture by Michelangelo.

Castello Sforzesco in Milan

Relax in Parco Sempione

This large park is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of Milan center. Take a walk, have a picnic, or just relax near the lake watching the ducks.

Parco Sempione Milan

Acuario Cívico de Milán

This is third oldest aquarium in Europe; It isn’t huge but it’s home to a variety of marine life from fish to turtles. It’s a interesting option if you want to explore something different in Milan.

Acuario Cívico de Milán

Top things to do near Porta Nuova Milan

Relax in Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli

This park is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. There are plenty of trees and benches to sit on, as well as a pond and a playground.

Visit Civica Galleria d’Arte Moderna

This gallery houses a collection of modern and contemporary art. It’s a great place to see works by Italian and international artists.

Watch a show at Planetario Ulrico Hoepli

This planetarium offers a variety of shows and exhibits about the stars and planets. It’s a great place to learn about astronomy.

Porta Nuova Milan

What to do near Porta Garibaldi

Shop at Corso Como

Enter Corso Como through Porta Garibaldi! This trendy street is similar to Via Torino as it is home to a number of Italian and international shops and designer stores. There’s also street food and cafes so you enjoy both shopping and having a food break!

Porta Garibaldi Milan

Visit the Unicredit Tower

This skyscraper offers panoramic views of Milan from its observation deck. Also enjoy exploring the Gae Aulenti Square near the tower.

Gae Aulenti Square Milan

Visit the Cimitero Monumentale di Milano

Cimitero Monumentale di Milano

I was amazed how this cemetery looks like a castle! It is home to the tombs of many famous Milanese people, including Italian poet and novelist Alessandro Manzoni, opera composer Giuseppe Verdi and fashion designer Gianni Versace. You will enjoy strolling around the trees and beautiful statues.

Cimitero Monumentale di Milano

Discover a different side of Milan at Navigli Lombardi

Stroll along Navigli Lombardi or take a boat tour

These canals were once used to transport goods, but they are now a popular spot for dining and nightlife. Navigli Lombardi looks great during both night and day. You can either enjoy walking around and across the bridges or taking a boat tour for a unique perspective of the city.

Navigli Lombardi Milan

Tour San Siro Stadium

Watch a football game at San Siro Stadium

This stadium is home to two of the world’s most famous football clubs, AC Milan and Inter Milan. A word of advise, learn the chants and book your seats at the Curva Sud for the best experience and ambience. The Ultras in the Curva Sud are constantly cheering and chanting making the atmosphere there electric!

Alternatively, you can take the stadium tour for a behind the scenes experience. Explore the locker rooms of both teams, enjoy the whole football field for yourself and visit the museum to learn more about the teams legends and history.

Of course we had to experience both sides of San Siro! The first time we were there, we toured the stadium and museum, then two years later, we returned to experience the thrill of a live football game and soak up the atmosphere of the crowd.

Watching a game in Milano San Siro Stadium

Admire the huge Cavallo di Leonardo 

Just near the football stadium, you can see the huge horse statue that was intended to be the largest equestrian statue in the world.

Cavallo di Leonardo in Milan

Discover Leonardo da Vinci’s work

Journey to the past at Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology

Step into da Vinci’s World and explore historical models, artworks, and da Vinci’s notebooks filled with sketches, technical drawings, and scientific observations. There are also interactive experiments that you can try to bring da Vinci’s ideas and inventions to life. This is one of our favorite museums – we were particularly impressed by the vast collection from cars and planes to trains and boats.

Visit Santa Maria delle Grazie and see Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper

This iconic painting is one of the most famous works of art in the world and it’s housed in Milan. I’ll you’re planning to see it, be sure to book your tickets in advance, as they sell out quickly.

Historical model at Leonardo da Vinci museum of science and technology

Planning a trip to Milan? What are you most excited to do? Whether it’s exploring the Duomo, or indulging in delicious Italian cuisine, share your must-see experiences below! 👇

Milan awaits! Have a fantastic time!


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2 responses to “Top Attractions in Milan for an Unforgettable Trip”

    1. Thank you Farida 😊

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