7 Best Places to See in Milan

Whenever there is a mention of Italian tourism, the first few names that come to mind are Rome, Venice, Florence, etc., due to their rich historical background. However, the country is home to several other fascinating cities that have a lot to offer in terms of tourism, and Milan is one of them. This bustling metropolis is located in northern Italy in the Lombardy region. Apart from being the capital of Lombardy, it is known for being the second most populated city in the country as well. Just like other iconic Italian cities, Milan boasts a glorious past and is home to a number of historical landmarks. But at the same time, the city is also known for its futuristic, modern architecture and fast-paced lifestyle.

If you’re planning a trip and aiming for a diverse travel experience, Milan is just the right option for you. Known to offer the perfect blend of old and new, this city will never disappoint you. No matter what your preferences are, you’ll always find plenty of places of interest in Milan.

What are the Best Places to See in Milan?

When visiting a city like Milan that has so much to offer, creating a travel itinerary is not an easy thing to do, especially when you have limited time on hand. You need to plan things in such a way that no important place or activity gets missed. Before you start exploring options for Milan, Italy tour packages, it is important to get some idea about the places you should include in your itinerary.

For your convenience, here is a list of some of the best places to visit in Milan for a fun-filled and memorable holiday experience: -

• Milan Cathedral
• La Scala
• Sforzesco Castle
• Piazza Dei Mercanti
• Teatro Dal Verme
• Leonardo Da Vinci’s Vineyard
• Parco Sempione

Milan Cathedral

Commonly referred to as Duomo di Milano, Milan Cathedral is the largest one in Italy and the fifth largest in the world. Dedicated to Saint Mary Nascent, this Gothic cathedral has an extensive history and is one of the best places to visit in Milan, Italy. Originally, the construction started in the late 14th century and lasted for more than a hundred years. Even now, you can see some restoration work being done in one part of the building or the other. Known for its awe-inspiring architecture, this cathedral attracts a large number of visitors on a daily basis. The main highlights of this structure include 135 delicately carved stone pinnacles, 2,245 marble statues adorning its rich patterned exterior, and 52 gigantic pillars. Apart from this, the stained-glass windows, which are also known for being the largest in the world, further contribute to the charm of this magnificent cathedral.

La Scala

La Scala is one of the oldest and most prominent opera houses. If you’re someone who has an interest in music, enjoying a live performance there is definitely among the best things to do in Milan, Italy. Apart from its superb acoustics, this opera house is also known for its awe-inspiring architecture. It was designed by famous Italian architect Giuseppe Piermarini and still serves as an excellent example of the Neoclassical architectural style.

Sforzesco Castle

For people who want to know more about the fascinating history of the city, Sforzesco Castle is one of the best historical sites to see in Milan. Originally, it was built as a fortress during the 14th century by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan. Over the years, this mediaeval structure played an important role in showcasing the power and prestige of the city’s rulers. Currently, this building is home to several museums with a rich art collection on display. One of the major highlights of Sforzesco Castle is the Pietà Rondanini, which is the final masterpiece of Michelangelo, the famous Italian artist.

Piazza Dei Mercanti

Located in the heart of the city, Piazza Dei Mercanti is a public square in Milan that is an important part of every Milan sightseeing tour. During the Middle Ages, this place served as an administrative centre of the city. Now it is one of the best places to see in Milan, as it offers a glimpse of the mediaeval period and tells the story of Milan’s glorious past. Although you can go there at any time of the day, evenings are often considered best to visit this part of the city.

Teatro Dal Verme

For art lovers, this is one of the most important places to go to in Milan, Italy. Teatro Dal Verme is one of the oldest theatres in the city and still hosts plays, live concerts, music shows, and several other art-related events. Apart from this, it also serves as a venue for various exhibitions and conference meetings. If you’re someone who has an interest in any form of art, you should definitely include Teatro Dal Verme in the itinerary of your trip to Milan.

Leonardo Da Vinci’s Vineyard

This is another addition to the list of the best sites to see in Milan. As the name suggests, this vineyard belonged to the great artist Leonardo Da Vinci. When he moved to the city in 1482 as one of the court writers, it was offered to him as a token of appreciation. Preserved as a heritage site, this place has become a popular tourist attraction over the years as it offers a glimpse of the Renaissance period. If you admire Leonardo Da Vinci and his work, you shouldn’t miss this place on your trip to Milan.

Parco Sempione

If you’re someone who admires nature and wants to spend some time away from the city’s chaos, then this is definitely one of the best places to go to in Milan. Known for its lush green surroundings and serene vibe, Parco Sempione is popular among tourists and locals alike. Here, you can either take a small stroll or just sit for some time and relax. Although you can come here at any time of the day, early mornings or late evenings are considered the best to visit this place. Other than offering a peaceful escape from the urban hustle and bustle, Parco Sempione is also home to La Triennale di Milano, an interesting centre of art. If you have enough time at hand, you can go to this museum and have a look at the rich collection.

Milan is one of those few places that are known for their diversity and can cater to the preferences of all kinds of travellers. Whether you are an art connoisseur, a history enthusiast, or a food lover, this city has a plethora of options for you. With this comprehensive guide on the best places to see in Milan, you can plan a trip and cover all the major attractions this city has to offer.