Our most recommended things to do in Milan

Milan: Milan Cathedral & Terraces Exclusive After-Hours Tour

1. Milan: Milan Cathedral & Terraces Exclusive After-Hours Tour

Discover Milan Cathedral and its terraces on an exclusive guided tour after they have closed to the public. Snap photos of the city in the evening light from the rooftop. Explore over six centuries of history, marvel at the stained-glass windows up close, and watch as the cathedral is closed up. Meet your expert guides, Marilena and Victor, and get a brief introduction to the cathedral. Then, take the elevator up to visit the Milan Duomo Rooftops as everyone else is leaving. Discover a myriad of gargoyles, statues, spires, and more. Admire the stunning city views and the gold Madonnina. Then, walk down the stairs and into the empty cathedral for an exclusive tour without the usual crowds. Take in a Gothic cathedral church that was six centuries in the making — with 34,000 statues, 135 spires, 55 stained glass windows, and 150 gargoyles, you can see why it took so long. Have fun finding your zodiac sign in the marble tiles and learning how this unusual solar calendar works. Be surprised — and perhaps horrified — by the statue of the tortured St Bartholomew. Take photos of statues that have been standing on the columns in the Duomo for over 600 years. Visit the retrochoir to admire the monumental stained glass windows that draw your gaze when in the nave. Marvel at the stories from the Old Testament, New Testament, and Apocalypse, and learn about the unusual ingredients used to make the bright colors of the paints. While in this area, open your eyes wide to take in the largest musical organ in Italy — the grand organ of Milan Cathedral has 15,800 pipes ranging from a few centimeters to several meters, covered with elaborate doors adorned with scenes from the Old and New Testaments. Get exclusive access to the Feriale Chapel, which visitors don't usually get a chance to visit. See the stained glass windows and intricate carvings of the wooden choir up close. Be moved by the intimate atmosphere of this small chapel, usually used for mass when visitors take over the cathedral. Finally, watch as Milan Cathedral is closed down for the night. Witnessing all the lights that illuminate the whole cathedral be turned off before the doors are closed is a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Milan: Cathedral and Rooftop Ticket

2. Milan: Cathedral and Rooftop Ticket

Discover the iconic symbol of Milan with your access-all-areas ticket to the Duomo and see the 600-year-old cathedral. Learn about the history of St. Ambrose and the cathedral's important role during the evolution of the city both spiritually and culturally.  Admire city panoramas from the Duomo Terraces. Built using Candoglia marble, on bright days, you can see as far as the Alps and the Apennine Mountains. Have the option of taking the elevator (not included). Admire the Duomo's 27 halls and its 14th-century Palazzo Reale's stained glass window, tapestries, and sculptures.

Milan: City Center & Last Supper Walking Tour

3. Milan: City Center & Last Supper Walking Tour

Get acquainted with the most historically significant landmarks of Milan on this 3-hour guided walking tour. Witness the beauty of the city as your guide leads you through the city's history, culture and, traditions during an unforgettable experience. Admire the Last Supper by Leonardo Da Vinci, one of the most sought-after masterpieces of all time. Your guide will be sure to make the most of the 15-minutes you have inside the Refectory to bring this mural painting to life for you.  Then, move on to Sforza Castle, a Medieval stronghold surrounded by a beautiful park. Continue your tour by walking to the Scala Opera House, the all Milanese Temple of Music, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Admire the beautiful gothic Duomo from the outside, an architectural wonder and the fifth-largest cathedral in Europe. Select the lunch option to finish off your tour with a traditional Italian meal in a nearby restaurant.

From Milan: Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna Guided Day Trip

4. From Milan: Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna Guided Day Trip

Marvel at the stunning mountain scenery around Lake Como on a guided day tour from Milan. Marvel at the Mediterranean and Alpine scenery on a summer boat cruise to Bellagio Island and Varenna, or ride the steep cogwheel line to the mountainside town of Brunate in winter. Begin your journey by bus and travel directly from Milan to Como. Join your guide on a walking tour to discover Como Cathedral and other historical gems. In summer, hop on a ferry along the lake and listen to a live commentary highlighting top villas, gardens, and other sites. Disembark at Bellagio, regarded as one of the most beautiful and idyllic towns in the region, and enjoy 2 hours of free time. Relax and savor a regional meal at one of the local restaurants. Board another ferry to the colorful Varenna. Stroll through the cobblestone corridors of this picturesque village and feel the charm of its tranquil streets. Finally, board your bus back to Milan where you can sit back and take advantage of the onboard Wi-Fi to share your photos of the day’s unforgettable memories.

Milan: Serravalle Designer Outlet Roundtrip Bus Transfer

5. Milan: Serravalle Designer Outlet Roundtrip Bus Transfer

The Serravalle Outlets, Europe's largest designer brands shopping mall, is located just an hour away from Milan. You can shop ‘til you drop on this trip, while enjoying discounts of 30-70 percent. You’ll find dozens of stores offering a wide array of the world's most renowned designer brands. The prices are well below what you would find in retail stores. In fact, there are more than 170 stores to choose from, featuring the top names in Italian designer fashions, including Gucci, Versace, Zegna, Dolce & Gabbana, Armani, and Prada. You’ll find top sports labels as well, such as Nike, Adidas, and The North Face. The outlet stores are housed in buildings that reflect Ligurian-Piedmont style and are all linked by tree-lined pedestrian walkways. You’ll find spots to sit, relax, and perhaps sip a latte before heading on to the next outlet shop to find the next great bargain!

Milan: La Scala Museum and Theater Tour

6. Milan: La Scala Museum and Theater Tour

Discover Milan's rich musical history on a guided tour through one of the world's leading opera theaters. La Scala also houses its own museum, which hosts a vast collection of costumes, instruments, and other musical curios, as well as a gallery of busts and paintings portraying some of classical music's greatest artists, including Giussepe Verdi and Arturo Toscanini. Explore the museum and hear fascinating tales and anecdotes about some of the marvelous musicians who have performed on La Scala's famous stage. You'll be immersed in the magic of the theater itself, with views from the boxes of the neoclassical interior and its monumental crystal chandelier. With good timing and a little bit of luck, you may even witness the artists rehearsing.

From Milan: Como, Lugano and Bellagio Full-Day Tour

7. From Milan: Como, Lugano and Bellagio Full-Day Tour

Immerse yourself in the best of Swiss and Italian culture on this full-day tour. Departing from Milan, enjoy an informative commentary on the historical landmarks and the spectacular landscape along the way. Firstly you will reach the Swiss town of Lugano where you will have some free time to visit the city center and taste some Swiss Chocolate. Head to the small village of Cadenabbia, where both Queen Victoria of England and Zar Nicholas of Russia were frequent visitors. From there, take a 15 minutes cruise to reach Bellagio, also known as the “Pearl of Lake Como”. Enjoy some free time to soak up the laid-back atmosphere of this idyllic and relaxing place, and you will have time to have lunch. Hop aboard a ferry boat and you have to chance to see this lake Como from a different perspective. During the panoramic cruise, take your time to look around and see the harmony between nature and architecture. Glide past villas with their beauteous gardens and amongst untouched nature. Your last stop will be the picturesque and ever-popular city of Como. Once off the ferry, enjoy a walking tour of the city and reach the gothic cathedral, accompanied by a professional tour leader who will help you to discover the art and history of this charming city.

Bergamo: Bus Transfer to/from Milan City Center

8. Bergamo: Bus Transfer to/from Milan City Center

Enjoy a comfortable direct one-way transfer between Bergamo Airport and Milan. Travel safely in an air-conditioned bus with no extra fees for luggage. If arriving at Bergamo Airport, simply locate the bus located just outside the arrivals hall. Arrive in a central location in Milan city center near taxis, the metro, and public bus transport options. Departing from Milan city center, hop on the bus at the exit of the "Piazza Luigi di Savoia" train station. Save yourself from navigating the public transportation system and take comfort in the fact that all vehicles are regularly maintained to high hygiene and quality standards.

Milan: La Scala Theater and Museum Tour with Entry Tickets

9. Milan: La Scala Theater and Museum Tour with Entry Tickets

If you can’t wait to visit the Milanese temple of music, look no further: this guided tour is for you! It will lead you through the 240-years-old history of Teatro alla Scala. The tour is entirely dedicated to the visit of the world-renowned Teatro alla Scala. Our guide will lead you through its museum galleries and will tell you secrets and details about its most distinguished performances and extravagant protagonists. The museum displays a rich collection of costumes and musical instruments, as well as a gallery of portraits and busts representing the great musicians of history. The guide will also tell you curiosities about the life of the artists who have performed on this important stage, such as Verdi, Toscanini, Maria Callas, Luciano Pavarotti or Carla Fracci. Finally, you’ll also be able to have a sneak peak inside the theater! As you tour the theater and museum, you'll discover behind-the-scenes insights into opera productions that, for over 200 years, have featured some of the best singers in the world.

Milan: San Siro Stadium and Museum Tour

10. Milan: San Siro Stadium and Museum Tour

Feel like a player and go behind the scenes at one of the world's most famous stadiums. Visit the sidelines and the stands where thousands of supporters gather on the weekend. Enter the changing rooms and the mixed zone. Walk through the tunnel of champions and make your way to the pitch of La Scala del Calcio. Treat yourself to an exciting journey within the legend of San Siro and satisfy your curiosity with our guides. The San Siro Museum, set up in a dedicated area, is the first leg of the Stadium Tour: the room showcases a selection of jerseys worn by some of the leading players of the Milanese teams, and many more. As the tour continues, discover the 'behind the scenes' of the stadium while walking in the footsteps of the champions. Enter Ac Milan and Inter’s locker rooms, cross the mix zone, walk the players’ tunnel, and get ready for the enchanting view of the San Siro field, the greatest thrill for every football fan. Experience the stadium from the perspective of your heroes, in groups led by our guides: enjoy anecdotes, curiosities, and unique views for your shots on the pitch, the sideline, and the benches. The tour of the History of Football continues in the bleachers, with a pleasant moment of leisure and relaxation in the grandstand: enjoy the view of the bowl and the engaging description of the stadium from a historical point of view. At the end of the stadium tour, visit of “Italia 110 & Lode”, an exhibition entirely dedicated to the Italian National Football Team. Check out original memorabilia, including the first jersey used against France in 1910, the pennant from the 1938 World Cup final between Italy and Hungary, the 1968 World Cup final kits of Italy and Yugoslavia, tops from Italia 1970, and also trophies and shirts of Italy’s World Cup and European Championship.

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Frequently asked questions about Milan

What are the best day trips and excursions from Milan?

The best day trips and excursions from Milan are:

Lake Como

Insider tips: Explore Milan like a local

Megan & Aram is a travel blog that focuses mostly on travel in the Nordics and Eastern Europe with the occasional trip beyond those regions. We love coffee, promoting small businesses, and sports.

What should I do on my first trip to Milan?

Milan boasts the largest and arguably the most gorgeous cathedral in Italy, and visiting the Duomo is one of the best things to do in Milan. The Duomo is a breathtaking Gothic-style centerpiece of the city, which took 600 years to build. If you want to learn more about the church’s history, art, or architecture, consider taking a guided tour. You can also ascend to the roof (Terraces) for beautiful views over the city. Another world-famous treasure is Leonardo da Vinci’s "Last Supper" in the Santa Maria delle Grazie church.

What are some hidden gems to see in Milan?

Though many people go see the famous "Last Supper" painting, few venture across the street to Casa degli Atellani and Leonardo’s vineyard, which he tended while he painted the Last Supper. You can tour the lovely house and gardens, including the vineyard. And don’t miss out on the Pinacoteca di Brera museum, a treasure trove of Italian art. You can also visit an astronomical observatory, a gorgeous library, and a botanical garden in the surrounding complex.

How much time should I spend in Milan?

While it is possible to see the main highlights of Milan in one day, the city is best explored in two or three days. This allows time to see some of the less-visited attractions and neighborhoods. If you have more than two or three days, consider taking a day trip; some great options include Lake Como or Verona.

What food is Milan known for?

Milan has some fantastic traditional dishes. Try the risotto alla milanese (risotto with saffron), ossobuco (stewed veal shanks), cassouela (cabbage and pork stew), and cotoletta alla milanese (breaded veal cutlets). During the holidays, try panettone, a sweet bread with candied citrus. While it is now popular all over Italy and the world, Milan was the birthplace of this holiday cake. There are so many different culinary delights in Milan, it is well worth taking a food tour to sample a wide variety of dishes and learn about the food scene from a local guide.

What is the best way to get around Milan?

Getting around Milan is convenient and easy. In the city center, many attractions are close together, and you can see interesting things as you move between them. Milan’s public transportation system is extensive and inexpensive, with four metro lines, 18 tram lines, and over 80 bus lines. Tickets cost around €2 and are valid for 90 minutes. Taking a taxi or renting a bike is also common and easy to do.

What are the best months to visit Milan?

While beautiful in every season, the best times to visit Milan are the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October. The weather is pleasant, and there are fewer crowds. Winter is an excellent option for the fewest tourists, especially during the holidays when there are beautiful decorations and Christmas markets, though it can be chilly. Summer is hot and can be quite crowded.

What are the best neighborhoods to visit in Milan?

Centro Storico, the historic center of Milan, is where most of the big attractions are, such as the Duomo, Castello Sforzesco, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and La Scala. The Navigli neighborhood surrounds the canal and has a relaxed vibe, filled with cafes, bars, restaurants, bookshops, and markets. Brera is one of the city’s most beautiful areas, with lovely architecture and an artsy vibe. And while not as large as some others across the globe, Milan’s Chinatown is a great place to eat and explore.

What are the best neighborhoods for food?

Don’t miss out on eating in the Navigli neighborhood, which has many typical Milanese restaurants, cafes, and trattorie. Aperitivo is also very popular in Northern Italy — a pre-meal drink in the early evening, often accompanied by light snacks. Join the Italians in this relaxing custom as you sit at a table at one of the many attractive bars along the canal at sunset.

What are the best neighborhoods for shopping?

Milan is Italy's fashion capital, so there is no shortage of shopping options here. Milan's most famous shopping center is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a mall housed in a gorgeous arcade. For luxury brands, visit the Quadrilatero della Moda, which literally means Fashion Quarter. For a wider range of price and store options, Corso Buenos Aires should be your destination. For more vintage, boutique, or alternative finds, head to Porta Ticinese.

What neighborhood should I stay in when I visit Milan?

If you want to be at the center of everything, look for accommodation around the Duomo area, though it will be more expensive than more outlying areas. A picturesque neighborhood to plant yourself in is Brera, with great cafes and an artsy vibe. For more of a modern feel, stay in the Porta Nuova district, filled with reclaimed warehouses-turned-restaurants, shops, and the amazing Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest) apartment building. The Navigli area has bars with great outdoor seating overlooking the canal, antique shops, and markets.

What is the best family-friendly thing to do in Milan?

The Sforzesco Castle is a great place to visit with kids. There is a great museum inside where you can introduce your children to fine art, and a vast garden and green space in Parco Sempione behind the castle where the kids can run around. If you or anyone in your family is a soccer lover, do not miss out on seeing San Siro, the legendary stadium where AC Milan and Inter Milan play. Even those with only a fleeting interest in soccer will love a tour of the stadium.

What is the best thing to do in Milan for solo travelers?

One of the best things about solo traveling is being on your own time schedule. Take advantage of this by spending as much time as you’d like wandering around Milan’s fascinating art and history museums, such as Pinacoteca di Brera, the Last Supper Museum, Leonardo’s Vineyard, Castello Sforzesco, and the Duomo. If you’d like to meet some people and sample some of Milan’s most delicious foods, sign up for a food tour.

What is the best thing to do in Milan for couples?

A great way to spend an evening with your partner is to dress up and see a performance at the stunning La Scala, Milan’s famous opera house. Whether a ballet, opera, or concert, it’s sure to be an impressive evening at this world-renowned theater. Another great way to spend an evening is strolling around the Navigli district, checking out the little shops and enjoying a sunset aperitivo along the canal.

What are the best annual events in Milan?

One of the biggest events in Milan is the biannual Fashion Week, each February and September. In December, holiday decorations are up, Christmas markets are open, and festive activities are held. In February, Milan celebrates Carnevale with parades, concerts, and exciting festivities.

What are the best things to do around Milan?

Parco Sempione is Milan’s largest park, directly behind Castello Sforzesco, which is a lovely way to take in some fresh air. If you want a more tranquil hidden gem, head to Guastalla Gardens, a small garden built in the traditional Italian style. If you have time for one of the best day trips from Milan, head to the beautiful Lake Como.

Other Sightseeing Options in Milan

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What people are saying about Milan

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 66,199 reviews

Citysightseeing provides a pretty straightforward experience - you get on the bus with the audioguide for the major landmarks and districts you'll see. It saves you so much time from having to walk from place to place. While you won't get the intimate experience of every place, it does allow you as a traveler to gloss through each part of town. In my case, Milan has 4 bus lines reaching out to all parts of the city. I know for sure when I travel abroad again I'll be using Citysightseeing's services. The 24, 48 and 72 hour passes provide flexibility.

My class size was 5. Very hands on. We made 2 different kinds of pasta, tiramisu and learned how to make risotto and a butter and sage sauce. The Chef was knowledgeable and personable. His recounting of his vast experiences took the class over the top.

Fantastic day out. The guide was excellent and the bus driver made the trip safe and comfortable

Great guide, amazing experience! Worth every cent :)

Amazing views and absolutely stunning architecture