Top 10 Things to do in Milan

Things to do in Milan

Milan, the fashion capital of Italy, is not just known for its stylish streets and designer boutiques. This city boasts a rich history and culture that will leave you mesmerized! From stunning architecture to world-class museums and breath-taking landscapes, there is never a dull moment in Milan. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a frequent traveller to this Italian gem, here are the top 10 things to do in Milan that should be on your bucket list!

1. Castello Sforzesco

Nestled in the heart of Milan, Castello Sforzesco is a magnificent fortress built by Francesco Sforza in the 15th century. The castle has been through many transformations over time and now houses several museums showcasing art collections and historical artifacts. As you walk towards this iconic monument, you’ll be amazed by the sheer size of it. Its imposing towers and crenellated walls are a sight to behold! Inside, visitors can explore several exhibitions that reflect Milan’s rich history.

Art enthusiasts will love wandering through the various galleries within the castle walls. One of its most celebrated works is Michelangelo’s last sculpture “Pieta Rondanini,” which sits gracefully on display for all to see. For those interested in military history, there are also plenty of weapon’s exhibits featuring armour from different eras. Don’t miss out on seeing the Sala delle Asse – Leonardo da Vinci’s ceiling frescoes! Visiting Castello Sforzesco should definitely be at the top of your list when visiting Milan!

2. Monumental Cemetery

One of the most unique and fascinating attractions in Milan is the Monumental Cemetery, also known as Cimitero Monumentale. This cemetery is not only a burial ground but also an open-air museum that showcases impressive works of art and architecture. The Monumental Cemetery was founded in 1866 and covers over 250,000 square meters. It’s home to more than 70,000 tombs and monuments from different eras, styles and religions. Each one tells a story or represents a historical figure or artistic movement.

Walking around this cemetery feels like stepping into another world full of beauty, grandeur and mystery. The sculptures are breathtakingly detailed and lifelike; some even seem to move or speak if you look at them long enough. The mausoleums are like miniature palaces with intricate decorations inside out. Some of the most famous graves here belong to Alessandro Manzoni (author of “I promessi sposi”), Arturo Toscanini (conductor), Francesco Hayez (painter) and Carlo Cattaneo (political philosopher). But every grave has its own charm or significance that makes it worth exploring. Visiting the Monumental Cemetery is not only about paying respects to the dead but also about appreciating human creativity at its finest. You can spend hours wandering through its alleys, admiring all the details, taking photos or just pondering life’s mysteries. It’s definitely one of the top things to do in Milan for culture lovers!

3. Villa Necchi Campiglio

Villa Necchi Campiglio is a stunning residence located in the heart of Milan. This historical mansion was built between 1932 and 1935 by Piero Portaluppi, one of the most acclaimed architects in Italy during that time. Visitors will marvel at the lavish Art Deco interiors, which boast an exquisite blend of marble floors, precious woods, and sumptuous textiles. The villa features a spacious garden with a pool and several outdoor areas where guests can relax amidst lush greenery and fountains.

One notable aspect of Villa Necchi Campiglio is its connection to Italian cinema history. Indeed, some scenes from Luca Guadagnino’s movie “I Am Love” were filmed within these walls. For those who are interested in learning more about this fascinating place, guided tours are available throughout the year. These tours provide visitors with an opportunity to delve deeper into the history of Villa Necchi Campiglio and its former residents while admiring the beauty of this architectural gem first-hand. Villa Necchi Campiglio offers a unique glimpse into Italian high society during the early decades of the twentieth century. It stands as both an impressive architectural achievement and testament to Milan’s cultural heritage.

4. Milano Centrale

Milano Centrale is one of the most beautiful and impressive railway stations in Europe. It was built at the beginning of the 20th century and reflects Milan’s history, art, and culture. The station has a magnificent entrance hall that showcases stunning architectural elements such as arches, columns, mosaics, and sculptures. The Milano Centrale station is not just a transportation hub but also a tourist attraction itself. Visiting this historic place will give you an insight into Italy’s exceptional craftsmanship and architecture. Once inside, you can admire its grandeur with high ceilings decorated with frescoes depicting various themes like science or agriculture.

Moreover, Milano Centrale offers direct connections to many Italian cities like Rome or Venice as well as international destinations such as Paris or Munich making it an ideal location for exploring other parts of Italy. Visitors can spend hours wandering around the maze-like halls where there are plenty of shops selling souvenirs crafts from local artisans besides being able to relax in one of the restaurants serving traditional Italian cuisine while waiting for their train arrival. Visiting Milan Central Station should feature on your itinerary when traveling to Milan if only for its sheer beauty alone!

5. Duomo Rooftops

The Duomo Rooftops in Milan is a must-visit attraction for any tourist. The rooftop offers stunning panoramic views of the city and is an excellent spot to take pictures. To reach the rooftop, visitors have two options: climb up the stairs or take the elevator. Climbing up the stairs can be quite tiring, but it’s worth it as you get to see more details of this Gothic cathedral’s architecture.

Once on top of the roof, one will notice that there are several spires scattered throughout. These spires provide unobstructed views overlooking Milan’s skyline and landmarks such as Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and La Scala Theatre. Aside from admiring the view, visitors can also explore other attractions on top of Duomo Rooftops, including a terrace bar where they serve drinks. It’s important to note that visiting Duomo Rooftops requires proper attire – no shorts or sleeveless shirts allowed – so make sure to dress appropriately before heading up!

6. Bosco Verticale

One of Milan’s most unique and innovative architectural wonders is the Bosco Verticale, which means “Vertical Forest” in English. Designed by architect Stefano Boeri, this residential complex feature two towers that are covered with lush greenery, including over 900 trees and a variety of plants. The concept behind the Bosco Verticale was to create a sustainable living space that blends urban architecture with nature. The towers not only provide residents with stunning views of the city but also help to reduce pollution levels and improve air quality.

In addition to its environmental benefits, the Bosco Verticale has become a popular tourist attraction in Milan. Visitors can take guided tours or simply admire the towers from below while strolling through the surrounding neighbourhood. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or just looking for a unique experience in Milan, visiting the Bosco Verticale is definitely worth adding to your list of things to do. It’s not every day that you get to see towering structures draped in greenery!

7. Teatro Romano

If you’re a fan of ancient Roman architecture and history, then one thing you cannot miss on your trip to Milan is the Teatro Romano. This well-preserved site dates back to the 2nd century AD and was once used for performances and gladiatorial contests. Located just a short walk from the city centre, Teatro Romano offers an incredible glimpse into Milan’s past. The theatre is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

As you wander through the ruins, imagine what life would have been like during ancient Roman times. Admire the intricate details in each stone column and archway as you take in this impressive piece of history. In addition to exploring on your own, guided tours are also available for visitors who want to learn more about Teatro Romano’s fascinating history. And with free admission, there’s no reason not to add this stunning site to your list of things to do in Milan!

8. Via Monte Napoleone

Via Monte Napoleone is Milan’s most fashionable street, known for its high-end luxury boutiques and designer stores. Located in the heart of Milan’s fashion district, Via Monte Napoleone is a shopper’s paradise that attracts visitors from around the world. If you’re looking to indulge in some luxury shopping on your trip to Milan, then Via Monte Napoleone is a must-visit destination. The street boasts an impressive selection of designer brands such as Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Versace and Armani among others.

In addition to high-end fashion shops and showrooms that line up the street, there are also several galleries showcasing contemporary art pieces from famous artists worldwide. You can feast your eyes on beautiful paintings or sculptures while walking through this chic area. The atmosphere in Via Monte Napoleone is vibrant and energetic with an Italian flair – locals dressed up elegantly sipping coffee at outdoor cafes as tourists take pictures and explore around them. It’s a perfect place to experience both the local culture and lifestyle along with international trends.

9. Museo Poldi Pezzoli

Museo Poldi Pezzoli is one of the hidden gems in Milan. This museum was once a private residence of Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli and now turned into a public space for art enthusiasts to explore. The museum features an extensive collection of Italian Renaissance paintings, sculptures, tapestries, ceramics, glassware and more. Visitors can see the works of famous artists such as Botticelli, Piero della Francesca and Giovanni Bellini.

Aside from the impressive artworks on display, the architecture of Museo Poldi Pezzoli itself is worth admiring. The interior design showcases 19th-century elegance with its luxurious furnishings that complemented the art pieces perfectly. One notable section at Museo Poldi Pezzoli is their arms and armour gallery. It displays various weapons used by soldiers throughout history including swords, helmets and firearms. It’s truly fascinating to see how these tools have evolved over time. Visiting Museo Poldi Pezzoli should be included in your Milan itinerary if you’re looking for an enriching cultural experience beyond just sightseeing or shopping!

10. UniCredit Tower

UniCredit Tower is a skyscraper located in Milan, Italy. The tower is the tallest building in Italy and the second-tallest in the European Union, with a height of 231 meters (758 feet). It was designed by César Pelli & Associates and completed in 2012. The building contains offices, retail spaces, and a hotel. It is located near the city’s major business district and several important landmarks, such as La Scala and Piazza del Duomo. The building has become an iconic symbol of Milan’s skyline, and its distinctive shape has earned it numerous awards.

And there you have it, the top 10 things to do in Milan! From historical landmarks such as Castello Sforzesco and Teatro Romano to modern architectural marvels like Bosco Verticale and UniCredit Tower. There is something for everyone in this beautiful Italian city.