Milan – Italy’s Capital of Fashion and Design

Italian: Milano

The magical cathedral on the impressive Cathedral Square, La Scala in Milan and the Last Supper painting. In addition, elegant designer boutiques, beautiful churches with valuable paintings and the enjoyment of Italian cuisine are a good reason to visit Milan.

Milan is not only the buzzing engine of the Italian economy. The city has become a metropolis worth seeing for the last 20 years. Milan is one of the leading cities in fashion and design. Elegantly, the city has always been, and rich. But this wealth is hidden behind simple facades. Only those who can take a look inside the marble-paneled stairwells and the green oases in the courtyards can imagine the true splendor.

Top Attractions and Things to Do in Milan

Milan Cathedral Duomo

The landmark of Milan is the cathedral Duomo with the golden Madonna on top. It is the #1 of Milan attraction. You absolutely need tickets or a guided program with an indoor tour and a rooftop tour.

The Milan Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Nascente, is a magnificent Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Milan, Italy. It is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world and a major tourist attraction in the city.

The cathedral was completed in the mid-15th century and is renowned for its beautiful stained-glass windows, intricate sculptures, and elaborate artwork. The rooftop offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, and visitors can climb to the roof and see the famous Madonnina statue, which stands on the highest point of the cathedral and is a symbol of Milan.

In addition to its architectural and artistic significance, the Milan Cathedral is also an important spiritual center and a symbol of the city’s cultural and religious heritage. Whether you’re interested in history, art, religion, or simply want to admire the beauty of this magnificent building, a visit to the Milan Cathedral is a must-do during your time in Milan.

Teatro Alla Scala

Piazza della Scala is home to the famous La Scala Opera House, where only the world’s best singers perform. Opera lovers attend a performance at the Teatro alla Scala. The ballet troupe of the Teatro alla Scala also has world level. From the outside, the Teatro alla Scala is rather simple in its neoclassical architectural style. A visit to the Scala Theater Museum is very interesting and takes you through the history of the Scala and its most important composers and opera singers.

The Teatro alla Scala is home to some of the world’s best opera singers and musicians, and it’s a privilege to attend a performance at this historic venue. The neoclassical architectural style of the building is elegant and understated, and the interior of the theater is sumptuously decorated, reflecting its importance as a cultural center.
The annual season premiere at La Scala is a major event, attracting opera lovers from around the world. The 7th of December, the holiday of Saint Ambrose, is an important day in the cultural calendar of Milan, and the live broadcast of the premiere on global cultural channels is a testament to the significance of La Scala in the world of opera.
Due to its high demand, tickets to La Scala performances can be difficult to come by, especially for popular productions. For this reason, it is advisable to book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Vittorio Emanuele Gallery

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a historic shopping mall and one of the oldest malls in the world. The covered Galleria Vittorio Emanuele is the Salon of Milan and connects the Cathedral Square with Piazza della Scala. The glass roof of the gallery forms a cross that can be seen from the roof of the cathedral. In the center of the gallery is the floor decorated with large floor mosaics that represent the most important cities in Italy. You’ll find fine shops, famous restaurants and coffee bars here and a luxury hotel. If it doesn’t have to be a Gucci handbag or Prada, check out Borsalino. There are very nice hats for her and him at affordable prices. Whether you’re shopping or just taking a leisurely stroll, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a must-visit destination during a trip to Milan.

Da Vinci’s Last Supper

The Last Supper is a famous painting by the Italian Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci. It is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of art and one of the most famous religious paintings in the world. The painting depicts the moment when Jesus announces to his disciples that one of them will betray him, as described in the New Testament of the Bible.

The Last Supper is housed in the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, Italy. Visitors can view the painting, but it is important to note that only a limited number of people are allowed to enter the refectory at one time and advance reservations are required to view the painting. The painting has undergone extensive restoration work over the years, and due to its delicate nature, only a limited amount of light is allowed in the room to protect it.

Leonardo da Vinci (1252-1519) was a genius. Painter, engineer, astronomer, scientist and, more generally, a great thinker. Leonardo was born in Tuscany, but he was drawn to the Milan court as a young man. Even then, Milan was considered a modern city. Commissioned by Duke Ludovico il Moro, Leonardo da Vinci painted the Duke’s bedroom Sala delle Asse and the painting Lady with Ermine, a portrait of the mistress of Duke Ludovico il Moro. His most famous work is the Last Supper, it took Leonardo da Vinci 4 years of work. The Last Supper painting by Leonardo da Vinci is in the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. It is the most famous and copied painting in the world.

The rush is so great that tickets are often sold out months in advance.  The best way is to combine the visit with a city tour. Then we take care of the tickets.

Castello Sforza and Sempione Park

The Castello Sforzesco was the castle of the Duke of Milan. Today, the castle serves as a museum and is home to a vast collection of art, sculptures, and archaeological artifacts from the region. The Museum of the Sforza Castle houses, among other things, the last masterpiece by Michelangelo, the Pietà Rondanini. Behind the castle is a beautiful English garden, where you can spread a blanket in summer and meet for a picnic. At the other end of the park, called Parco Sempione in the city map, is the Arco della Pace.
Sempione Park is a large park located in the heart of Milan, near Castello Sforza. The park is one of the largest public parks in Milan and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The park is home to a number of attractions, including the famous Arch of Peace, a triumphal arch built in the 19th century to commemorate the victories of Napoleon Bonaparte. There are several other places of interest in the park, including the Arena, the Triennale, the Torre Branca and the Aquarium.

San Marurizio al Monastero Maggiore

San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is a church in Milan, Italy, located in the Brera district. There are many monasteries in Milan. It was usually the daughters of the better families who were “surrendered” there while their brothers were busy being useful to the family and increasing the fortune. The monasteries were, of course, very well supported financially, so there was no lack of anything (well …).
The church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is also known for its beautiful frescoes, which were painted by Leonardo’s students (including Bernardino Luini and Bramantino), and is also known as the “Sistine Chapel of Milan.” For guided groups, the monastery is open for a visit.

Bosco Verticale – Milan’s skyline

Milan’s new skyline stretches out in the Porta Nuova area with the award-winning skyscraper Bosco Verticale.

Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest) is a residential complex, known for its unique and innovative design. The complex is composed of two towers covered in over 900 trees, shrubs, and plants, making it one of the most distinctive buildings in the city’s skyline. The trees provide natural shading, improve air quality, and create a green oasis in the heart of the city. The two towers are in the modern Porta Nuova district.

Bosco Verticale was designed by architect Stefano Boeri as a solution to the growing need for green spaces in cities. The building’s design has received international recognition and has been used as a model for similar projects in other cities around the world.

Visitors can admire the building from the outside and enjoy the surrounding park. There are also guided tours available that provide a closer look at the building’s design and its impact on the environment.

Bosco Verticale is a prime example of how urban development and environmental sustainability can be combined to create a unique and livable city. It has become a symbol of Milan’s innovative spirit and its commitment to creating a greener, more livable city.

Naviglio District

The Naviglio is Milan’s artificial waterway. The canal was built in the late 13th century to connect Milan to the Ticino River and the Po River, facilitating the transportation of goods and supplies to and from the city. It played a crucial role in the city’s economic growth and development.

In addition to the transportation of marble for the cathedral, the Naviglio was also used to transport other materials such as food, textiles, and building supplies. The extension of the canal to the construction site of the cathedral was a significant event in the history of Milan, as it allowed for the efficient transportation of materials to the building site, which helped to speed up the construction of the cathedral.

Today, the Naviglio Grande is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The area surrounding the canal is lined with bars, restaurants, and shops, making it a perfect place to spend an evening or weekend. The Darsena, the port between the Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese, is a lively hub of activity and is also a popular destination for visitors. It has been recently renovated and now offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and cultural events.

Colonne di San Lorenzo

The Colonne di San Lorenzo is an ancient building from the late Roman era in Milan, located in front of the namesake basilica near the medieval Porta Ticinese. It represents one of the rare surviving finds of imperial Milan. It is what remains of a four-sided atrium with arcades on columns in front of the oldest Roman basilica on the road to Pavia. The 8.50 m high columns with Corinthian capitals and partially relevant architraves rest on a rustic stylobate of stone. They have a larger intermediate column in the center, which is topped by a brick arch to emphasize the entrance arch. On the left end of the colonnade is an inscription by Lucio Vero from the year 167 AD with the full title of the emperor. The square is now, after centuries of neglect, occupied by a square still rattled by streetcars. In the center is a statue of Constantine, a bronze copy of the original kept in the Lateran, which was erected here to celebrate the two thousandth anniversary of Augustus.

We prefer to come here on balmy summer evenings. Then the place is filled with dolce vita and visitors are well supplied with aperitif from the many bars that surround the square.

Church of Sant ’Eustorgio

The basilica of Sant’Eustorgio holds great historical and religious significance, not only for Milan, but also for the Catholic Church. The basilica was originally dedicated to the Three Magi, who were said to have brought gifts to the baby Jesus, and it was believed that the relics of the Magi were housed in the basilica. The theft of these relics by Federico Barbarossa’s troops in 1162 and their subsequent transfer to the Cologne Cathedral in Germany was a significant event in the history of the basilica and the city of Milan. Despite the loss of the original relics, the basilica still holds significant works of art and monuments, including the Visconti chapel, the Portinari chapel, and the altarpiece of the Passion. These works of art, along with the historical and religious significance of the basilica, make it a popular destination for tourists and a place of pilgrimage for many Catholics.

Museum: Galleria d ’Arte Moderna

The Galleria d’Arte Moderna Milano is a museum that showcases the art of the 19th century. It is located in Villa Reale in Milan and is part of the Civic Art Collections of the Municipality of Milan. The museum features works by prominent Italian artists from the late 18th century to the 20th century, including Andrea Appiani, Giuseppe Bossi, Antonio Canova, Francesco Hayez, Gaetano Previati, Medardo Rosso, Giovanni Segantini, and more. In addition to the permanent collection, the museum also houses the Grassi Collection on the second floor, which includes works by Van Gogh, Cézanne, Renoir, Manet, and Fontanesi, and the Vismara Collection on the ground floor, which features 40 masterpieces of modern and contemporary art. The Galleria d’Arte Moderna is a must-visit for art lovers and those interested in the history of Italian art.

Chinatown

In Milan, there is the Chinatown around Via Paolo Sarpi, located between the Sempione park and the Porta Nuova district. We like to go to China Town, if we have missed the time again, for a lunch after the city stroll. After all, there is something else going on in Chinatown.
In Milan’s Chinatown, you can experience the authentic flavors of Chinese cuisine. There are many small, family-run restaurants serving traditional dishes like handmade noodles, dumplings, hot pot, and spicy foods. You can also find Chinese supermarkets, tea shops, and bakeries selling ingredients and sweets specific to Chinese cuisine. It’s a great place to go if you’re looking for a change of pace from the usual Italian cuisine, or if you simply have a craving for Chinese food. The atmosphere in Chinatown is lively and bustling, making it a fun and unique dining experience. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a more elaborate meal, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds in Milan’s Chinatown.

Culinary Experiences

In Italy, you eat well almost everywhere. In some gourmet temples you can marvel at the preparation and taste the local dishes and delicacies. Of course, a prosecco and wine from the best growing regions of Bel Paese should not be missing. Whether rustic or classy, you can trust our selection of the restaurant when you book a program with us.

Architecture, design and fashion

With Expo 2015, the third wave with modern architecture came to Milan. This blends perfectly into the cityscape and offers surprising contrasts. You will find the excavations from the Roman period integrated into new residential districts, the typical buildings of Milan Art Nouveau next to the post-war architecture and working-class districts adjacent to the modern skyscrapers of the world’s best architects.

Milan is also known as the capital of fashion and design. The city is home to some of the world’s most famous fashion houses and design brands, such as Prada, Gucci, Versace, and Armani. You can find a wealth of boutiques and shops in the city center, especially in the Quadrilatero d’Oro district, where the biggest and most prestigious fashion houses are located. Milan is also a popular destination for trade fairs and events, such as the Milan Fashion Week and the Milan Design Week, attracting designers, fashion enthusiasts, and buyers from all over the world. The city has a rich history of design and architecture, making it the perfect destination for anyone interested in these fields.

Fairs in Milan

Of course, Milan fashion weeks Milano Moda Donna and Milano Moda Uomo are known, as well as the world’s largest furniture fair, the Salone del Mobile in April. Those who come to Milan at this time can look forward to a turbulent nightlife. It will then be quite difficult with the hotels, which like to more than double the price and are fully booked.
In addition to the fashion weeks and the Salone del Mobile, there are many other trade fairs and exhibitions held in Milan throughout the year. These include the international biennial fair for the home and office, the Euroluce lighting fair, the international kitchen and bathroom exhibitions, and the international beauty and cosmetics fair. These events attract exhibitors and visitors from all over the world and offer an exciting opportunity to discover new trends, products, and innovations in various industries. If you are interested in attending one of these fairs, it is best to book your accommodation well in advance, as the demand is high and prices can be steep during these popular events.

Football and Formula One

Football fans will get their money’s worth with the two world-renowned clubs AC Milan and Inter Milan sharing the San Siro stadium. The local plays is always fully sold out like most other games. There are only named tickets you can buy from us beforehand as a football package. Stadium and Football Museum can be visited outside the Games. Groups need to be signed up and get a guide in their language.
For fans of fast cars, the Monza Circuit is a must-visit. It is the oldest and one of the fastest tracks in the world and is located just a few kilometers from Milan. The Italian Grand Prix takes place here annually and attracts thousands of fans from all over the world. Visitors can take part in a guided tour of the track and the paddock, and experience the thrill of the race from a unique perspective. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for any motorsports enthusiast.

  1. Book your tours and tickets in advance. Many attractions sell out quickly, while others require queuing. Make the most of your time by pre-booking. 
  2. Familiarize yourself with the city’s public transportation: Milan has an extensive public transportation network, including buses, trams, and metro trains. It’s important to know how to navigate the city to save time and make the most of your trip.
  3. Explore the city on foot: Milan is a great city for walking and exploring. Start in the city center, and walk through the streets to get a feel for the city’s atmosphere and character.
  4. Visit the Duomo: The Duomo is one of Milan’s most iconic landmarks and is a must-visit for first-time visitors. Take a tour of the cathedral and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
  5. Experience Milan’s food scene: Milan is famous for its cuisine, and there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from. Try local specialties such as risotto alla milanese and osso buco.
  6. Shop till you drop: Milan is a shopping paradise and is home to some of the world’s most famous fashion brands. Be sure to visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls.
  7. Check out the art: Milan is home to many museums and galleries, including the Pinacoteca di Brera and the Museo del Novecento. These institutions house some of Italy’s finest art collections.
  8. Stay safe: Milan is generally a safe city, but like any major city, it’s important to take basic precautions such as keeping your valuables close and avoiding quiet or dark areas at night.
  9. Have fun! Milan is a vibrant city with plenty to see and do, so be sure to enjoy yourself and make the most of your trip.

Itineraries in Milan

Milan is a bustling city with a lot to offer, here are a few itinerary suggestions for your visit:

  1. Classic Milan Tour: Start with a visit to the iconic Cathedral of Milan (Duomo), take a stroll around the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping centers, and visit the Teatro alla Scala, one of the most famous opera houses in the world.
  2. Art & Architecture: Take a tour of the Pinacoteca di Brera, one of Italy’s leading art collections, and in the evening, attend a show at La Scala. Visit the Castello Sforzesco, home to several museums, including the Museum of Ancient Art, and take a walk through the Brera district, known for its many art galleries and artists.
  3. Fashion & Design: Explore the Quadrilatero della Moda, Milan’s fashion district, and visit some of the world’s most famous fashion boutiques and designers.
  4. Food & Wine: Enjoy a traditional Italian meal in one of the city’s many restaurants, visit a local market to sample the region’s delicious produce, and take a wine tasting.
  5. In the evening: Head to the Naviglio district for a glimpse of the city’s nightlife.

These itineraries can be customized to your interests and schedule, and we can also provide recommendations for accommodations and transportation.

How to get to Milan?

Milan has three airports: Milan Malpensa (MXP), Milan Linate (LIN) and Milan Bergamo (BGY). The quickest and most convenient way to reach the city center from the airports is by taking the shuttle buses or trains. The journey time varies depending on the airport but generally takes between 40 minutes to an hour. Milan has six main railway stations: Stazione Centrale, Stazione Garibaldi, Stazione Porta Garibaldi, Stazione Cadorna, Stazione Rogoredo and Stazione Lambrate. All of them are well connected to the city’s public transportation network, making it easy to get around Milan by metro, bus or tram. The metro system in Milan is well-developed, with five lines that cover the entire city. You can buy tickets at the metro stations or at the newsstands and tobacconists in the city. If you’re driving to Milan, you can park in the many underground car parks or on-street parking spaces, but keep in mind that these are for payment. Also, note that there is a city toll in Milan called Area C, which you need to pay to enter the city center. There are also driving bans for diesel vehicles in certain areas of the city, so be sure to check.

Is Milan worth Seeing?

Yes, Milan is definitely worth seeing. It's a city that combines the best of both worlds: a rich cultural heritage and a modern, bustling metropolis. From its iconic Cathedral to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world's oldest shopping malls, Milan offers a unique blend of history and style. In addition to its fashion, Milan is also known for its art, with famous museums like the Pinacoteca di Brera and the Museo del Novecento. Food lovers will be in heaven with the city's diverse dining options, from traditional Italian cuisine to exotic Asian dishes in the Chinatown district. And the nightlife in the Naviglio district is second to none. So, whether you're a culture vulture, a fashionista, or just looking for a fun city break, Milan is definitely worth a visit!

Day trips from Milan

From Milan, there are daily trips to Lake Como and Lake Maggiore. For groups, private travelers or foreign visitors to business customers, we organize these day tours within a complete travel program with hotel accommodations. In addition, trips to the neighboring towns of Monza, Bergamo or the monastery of Pavia are worthwhile.
We can also offer excursions exclusively with a chauffeur and licensed tourist guide in your language For those interested in art and architecture, a day trip to the nearby city of Bergamo and Brescia or to the famous Italian lakes can be arranged. For food and wine enthusiasts, a visit to the vineyards in the Franciacorta Region and Oltrepo Pavese region is a must. There you can sample the local wines and sparkling wines and taste the local cuisine.

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