30 Things to Do in Milan
Milan, Italy’s powerhouse of fashion and finance, offers far more than just designer labels and business deals. This stylish city boasts incredible history, stunning art, and a vibrant culture waiting to be explored, and you’ll find many rewarding free things to do in Milan that showcase its elegance without costing a euro. From magnificent cathedrals to charming canals, Milan surprises with its depth and diversity.
This guide presents 30 ways to experience the best of Milan, blending iconic attractions with local favorites. Whether you’re gazing at masterpieces, sipping an aperitivo, or wandering through historic districts, you’ll discover the unique energy that makes this northern Italian city so compelling. Get ready to explore Milan’s sophisticated charm.
Iconic Landmarks & Architecture
Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral): Marvel at the intricate Gothic facade of Milan’s breathtaking cathedral, a true symbol of the city. Take time to admire the countless spires and statues adorning this architectural masterpiece.
Duomo Rooftop Terraces: Ascend to the cathedral’s terraces via stairs or elevator for unforgettable close-up views of the spires and panoramic vistas across Milan. Walking among the detailed stonework is a unique experience.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Stroll through Italy’s oldest active shopping gallery, an elegant glass-vaulted arcade connecting the Duomo and La Scala. Admire the architecture, browse luxury shops, and spin on the bull mosaic’s heel for good luck.
Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco): Explore this large 15th-century castle complex that once housed Milan’s ruling families. Today it contains several museums and offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s powerful past.
Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio: Visit one of Milan’s oldest churches, founded by St. Ambrose in the 4th century. Its Romanesque architecture and historic significance make it a peaceful and important site.
Colonne di San Lorenzo: See the well-preserved Roman columns standing before the Basilica di San Lorenzo. This area becomes a popular gathering spot for young people in the evenings.
Cimitero Monumentale: Wander through this stunning open-air museum featuring elaborate tombs and sculptures by renowned artists. It’s a surprisingly beautiful and artistically rich cemetery.
Art Treasures & Museums
The Last Supper (Cenacolo Vinciano): Book well in advance to see Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic masterpiece housed in the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Viewing is strictly timed, offering an intimate encounter with genius.
Pinacoteca di Brera: Discover one of Italy’s most important art galleries, featuring masterpieces by Italian artists like Raphael, Caravaggio, and Mantegna. The collection is housed in a beautiful palazzo within the charming Brera district.
San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore: Step inside this unassuming church often called the “Sistine Chapel of Milan” for its breathtaking floor-to-ceiling Renaissance frescoes. It’s a hidden gem bursting with color.
Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology: Explore Italy’s largest science museum, dedicated to the famous inventor and housing interactive exhibits. It offers engaging displays for all ages.
Museo del Novecento: Discover 20th-century Italian art overlooking Piazza del Duomo. The museum’s layout offers both great art and fantastic views of the cathedral.
Teatro alla Scala Museum: Visit the museum attached to the world-famous La Scala opera house. Peek into the auditorium (if rehearsals permit) and explore costumes and artifacts from opera history for a touch of theatrical glamour.
Fashion, Design & Modern Milan
Quadrilatero d’Oro (Fashion District): Window shop along Via Montenapoleone and its surrounding streets, home to flagship stores of the world’s top fashion designers. It’s the epicenter of Milanese style and luxury.
Fondazione Prada: Explore contemporary art and culture at this striking complex designed by Rem Koolhaas in southern Milan. The foundation hosts thought-provoking exhibitions in its unique architectural spaces.
Pirelli HangarBicocca: Discover large-scale contemporary art installations in a vast former industrial space, often with free entry. Anselm Kiefer’s permanent installation, The Seven Heavenly Palaces, is truly monumental.
Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest): Admire the innovative residential towers covered in trees and plants in the Porta Nuova district. These buildings represent cutting-edge sustainable urban architecture.
Piazza Gae Aulenti: Walk around this modern square surrounded by futuristic skyscrapers, including the UniCredit Tower. It symbolizes the new face of Milan and offers great photo opportunities.
Triennale Design Museum: Explore exhibitions dedicated to Italian design, architecture, and visual arts in Parco Sempione. It’s a key institution for understanding Italy’s contribution to modern design.
Charming Districts & Local Life
Brera District Stroll: Wander the cobblestone streets of this artistic neighborhood filled with galleries, boutiques, cafes, and the Pinacoteca. It exudes a bohemian-chic atmosphere.
Navigli District: Explore Milan’s charming canal district, lined with cafes, bars, restaurants, and studios. It’s particularly lively in the evening for aperitivo and nightlife.
Parco Sempione: Relax or walk through this large park behind Sforza Castle, offering green space, pathways, and views of the Arch of Peace. It’s a popular spot for locals to unwind and exercise.
Explore Porta Nuova District: Discover the modern business district around Piazza Gae Aulenti and Bosco Verticale. It showcases Milan’s development with impressive contemporary buildings.
Santa Maria delle Grazie: Visit the church itself (a UNESCO site), separate from seeing The Last Supper. Admire Bramante’s impressive dome and the serene cloisters for a moment of architectural appreciation.
Milanese Flavors & Traditions
Enjoy Aperitivo: Participate in the Milanese tradition of pre-dinner drinks accompanied by complimentary snacks or buffet, especially popular in the Navigli district. It’s a social and delicious early evening ritual.
Try Risotto alla Milanese: Sample this classic Milanese dish, a creamy saffron-infused risotto often served with osso buco. Find authentic versions in traditional trattorias.
Eat Panettone: Taste Milan’s famous sweet bread loaf, traditionally enjoyed during Christmas but sometimes available year-round. Look for artisanal versions for the best flavor.
Have Campari at Camparino in Galleria: Sip a classic Campari soda or Negroni at this historic bar in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. It’s an elegant spot for a quintessential Milanese drink.
San Siro Stadium Tour: For football fans, tour the legendary stadium shared by AC Milan and Inter Milan. Visit the museum and locker rooms for a behind-the-scenes look at Italian football history.
