A complete guide to the 15 best museums in Milan

Discover Milan’s influence across fashion, architecture, art, and history at its most famous museums. Explore Italy’s art museums like Pinacoteca di Brera and Santa Maria delle Grazie, or focus on icons like Leonardo da Vinci at exhibits like Leonardo 3. Milan’s top monuments house museum artifacts, such as the Duomo and Royal Palace. Beyond Milan’s famous cultural attractions, unique museums abound. Uncover macabre scenes at San Bernadino alle Ossa or trace soccer legends at San Siro Stadium Museum. Get inspired at the 15 best museums in Milan.

Milan’s Best Museums at a Glance

Best museum for families: Museo Nazionale della Scienza e della Tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci
Best museum for art: Pinacoteca di Brera
Best museum for history: Museo del Novecento
Best museum for modern art: Fondazione Prada

1. Ambrosiana Gallery

Best for: Art lovers and history enthusiasts

Why should I visit the Ambrosiana Gallery?

The Ambrosiana Gallery is home to the Codex Atlanticus, a 12-volume collection from Leonardo da Vinci’s notebooks, curated by Pompeo Leoni. Get as up close as possible with this historical book and discover even more Da Vinci and Renaissance artifacts.

How long can I spend at the Ambrosiana Gallery?

Plan for a 2-3 hour visit to appreciate the exhibits fully.

Insider tip

Don’t miss the centuries-old display cases by Alfredo Ravasco. Enjoy a quiet moment in the museum’s elegant reading room.

Address

Piazza Pio XI, 2, 20123 Milano

Opening hours

Thursday-Tuesday 10:00 AM-6:00 PM

Closed on Wednesdays

2. Duomo Milan

Best for: Architecture enthusiasts and history lovers

Why should I visit the Duomo di Milano?

The Duomo di Milano is not only a stunning architectural masterpiece but also houses a rich collection of artifacts in its museum. Explore the cathedral’s vast historical treasures and enjoy towering views from the rooftop.

How long can I spend at Duomo di Milano?

Allocate 2-4 hours to explore the cathedral, museum, and rooftop.

Insider tip

There are plenty of historical features to look for, from the gilded Madonnina to the Holy Nail used to bind Jesus to his crucifix.

Address

P.za del Duomo, 20122 Milano

Opening hours

Monday–Sunday 8:00 AM–7:00 PM

3. Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio

Best for: History buffs and architecture lovers

Why should I visit the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio?

The Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio is a historic Milan landmark known for its Romanesque architecture and deep cultural significance. This famous basilica offers a glimpse into Milan’s early Christian history, with stunning mosaics and relics that make it a must-visit site.

How long can I spend at the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio?

Spend 1-2 hours exploring the basilica and its surroundings.

Insider tip

Founded in the 4th century, this ancient cathedral was built by Milan’s patron saint, Ambrose. Spectacularly historic features like a 9th-century altarpiece make this among the city’s most historically significant sites.

Address

Piazza Sant'Ambrogio, 20123 Milano

Opening hours

Monday-Saturday 7:30 AM-12:30 PM and 2:30 PM-7:00 PM

Open Sunday, 8:00 AM-1:00 PM and 3:00 PM-8:00 PM

4. Royal Palace of Milan

Best for: Art enthusiasts and history aficionados

Why should I visit the Royal Palace of Milan?

The Royal Palace of Milan is renowned for its impressive art exhibitions and historical significance. This important former seat of Milan’s ruling government now boasts various historical museums and galleries. You’ll discover glamorous staircases, halls, and piazzas that were once the opulent settings for royal galas, making it a must-see attraction in Milan.

How long can I spend at the Royal Palace of Milan?

Plan to spend 2-3 hours exploring the exhibitions.

Insider tip

Learn about the Palace’s history, from the beloved stomping ground of Holy Roman Empress Maria Theresa to its use by the National Fascist Party during the Second World War.

Address

P.za del Duomo, 20122 Milano

Opening hours

Tuesday-Sunday 12:00 PM-7:30 PM

Thursday 12:00 PM-10:30 PM

5. Santa Maria delle Grazie

Best for: Art lovers and history enthusiasts

Why should I visit Santa Maria delle Grazie?

As a stunning architectural space, the Santa Maria delle Grazie is worth your attention alone. Its most famous asset, however, is also one of the world's most famous murals: Da Vinci’s “The Last Supper.” Book a guided visit to skip the line and tour the convent and its treasures with an art historian.

How long can I spend at Santa Maria delle Grazie?

Allocate 1-2 hours for your visit. Booking is essential to see “The Last Supper.”

Insider tip

Crowds are kept small so you can fully appreciate the famous tapestry for 15 minutes.

Address

Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, 20123 Milano

Opening hours

Tuesday-Sunday 8:15 AM–7:00 PM

6. Museo del Novecento

Best for: Modern art enthusiasts

Why should I visit Museo del Novecento?

Milan’s modern art mecca, the Museo del Novecento, is a vital world hub of Abstract and Post-Impressionist art. Its spacious, whitewashed interiors are impeccably grouped into themed rooms that span the history of cutting-edge Italian and European art movements.

How long can I spend at Museo del Novecento?

Plan for 2-3 hours to explore the museum’s diverse exhibits.

Insider tip

You’ll discover important Modernist Italian artworks from Boccioni, Giacometti, and Modigliani, and important works by Picasso, Klee, and Kandinsky.

Address

P.za del Duomo, 8, 20123 Milano

Opening hours

Tuesday-Sunday 10:00 AM-7:30 PM

Open late on Thursdays 10:00 AM-10:30 PM

7. Pinacoteca di Brera

Best for: Art lovers and cultural enthusiasts

Why should I visit Pinacoteca di Brera?

Pinacoteca di Brera is one of Italy’s most important art museums, boasting a veritable treasure trove of Old Masters rarely seen in such quality and quantity. This renowned institution features works by artists like Raphael, Caravaggio, and Mantegna, making it an essential destination for anyone interested in Italy’s artistic heritage.

How long can I spend at Pinacoteca di Brera?

Spend 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the museum's extensive collection.

Insider tips

Brera’s masterpieces include Andrea Mantegna’s “The Dead Christ and Three Mourners” and Hayez’s iconic “The Kiss."

Address

Via Brera, 28, 20121 Milano

Opening hours

Tuesday-Sunday 8:30 AM-7:15 PM

Closed on Mondays

8. Mudec Museum

Best for: Contemporary art enthusiasts and cultural explorers

Why should I visit the Mudec Museum?

The Mudec Museum is one of Milan’s newest museums, with a sleek collection of world-reaching artworks and artifacts in an eye-catching former factory setting. It hosts many cutting-edge and blockbuster exhibitions that have spanned heavyweights like Rodin and Korean pop culture.

How long can I spend at the Mudec Museum?

Plan to spend 2-3 hours exploring the diverse exhibits.

Insider tip

Explore the illuminated glass exteriors and interiors designed by the minimalist British architect, David Chipperfield. The permanent collections are free to enter.

Address

Via Tortona, 56, 20144 Milano

Opening hours

Tuesday-Sunday 9:30 AM-7:30 PM

Monday 2:30 PM-7:30 PM

9. National Museum of Science and Technology

Best for: Families and science enthusiasts

Why should I visit the National Museum of Science and Technology?

Milan’s National Museum of Science and Technology has a significant Da Vinci exhibition hall that brings the famed polymath’s inventions to life. See these delightful flying machines among thousands of tech items from Italy’s history.

How long can I spend at the National Museum of Science and Technology?

Allocate 3-4 hours for a comprehensive visit. Booking tickets for special exhibits is recommended.

Insider tip

Delve into the automobile industry with Alfa Romeo cars and check out a stunning Middle Age planetary clock.

Address

Via San Vittore, 12, 20123 Milano

Opening hours

Tuesday-Friday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM

Saturday 10:00 AM-6:00 PM

Sunday 9:30 AM-6:30 PM

10. Leonardo3

Best for: Art lovers and tech enthusiasts

Why should I visit Leonardo3?

Leonardo3 is a unique museum in Milan that brings Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions to life through interactive exhibits and digital reconstructions. There are hands-on models of famous inventions, and a full digitally restored version of “The Last Supper” to explore.

How long can I spend at Leonardo3?

Plan to spend 1-2 hours exploring the museum’s interactive exhibits.

Insider tip

Model planes, crossbows, submarines, and other mechanical contraptions are brought to life at this absorbing exhibit.

Address

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, 11, 20121 Milano

Opening hours

Monday-Sunday 9:30 AM-9:00 PM

11. Enrico Toti Submarine

Best for: History buffs and adventure seekers

Why should I visit the Enrico Toti Submarine?

Fans of nautical history should board the Toti Submarine, first launched in 1967. Located within Milan’s famous National Museum of Science and Technology, the Enrico Toti Submarine offers a unique experience of exploring Italy’s first submarine—access its storied depths, where you can test the periscope and marvel at Italian craftsmanship.

Insider tips

Learn about life on a 1960s submarine and explore highlights like the torpedo-guiding control system.

Address

Via San Vittore, 12, 20123 Milano

Opening hours

Tuesday-Friday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM

Saturday 10:00 AM-6:00 PM

Sunday 9:30 AM-6:30 PM

12. San Bernardino alle Ossa

Best for: History enthusiasts and those intrigued by the macabre

Why should I visit San Bernardino alle Ossa?

The Church of San Bernadino alle Ossa houses a fascinating ossuary constructed from bones and human remains. The chapel contains other architectural and painterly treasures, including 17th-century frescoes by Sebastiano Ricci.

How long can I spend at San Bernardino alle Ossa?

Spend 30 minutes to 1 hour exploring the ossuary and church.

Insider tip

Milan’s chapel of bones is a macabre masterpiece that will kick off an exciting tour of the city’s hidden gems.

Address

Piazza Santo Stefano, 20122 Milano

Opening hours

Monday-Friday 8:00 AM-6:00 PM

Saturday 9:30 AM-6:00 PM

Sunday 9:30 AM-12:00 PM

13. San Siro Stadium Museum

Best for: Sports fans and families

Why should I visit the San Siro Stadium Museum?

The San Siro Stadium Museum offers an exciting exploration of Milan’s famous football history, showcasing memorabilia from legendary teams AC Milan and Inter Milan. You can browse soccer-related treasures with a tour, including iconic kits, medals, and memorabilia.

How long can I spend at the San Siro Stadium Museum?

Plan to spend 1-2 hours exploring the museum and stadium

Insider tip

Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium with access to the changing rooms and player's tunnel.

Address

Piazzale Angelo Moratti, 20151 Milano

Opening hours

Monday-Friday 9:30 AM-5:00 PM

Closed on weekends for matches

14. La Scala Museum

Best for: Music lovers and cultural enthusiasts

Why should I visit La Scala?

La Scala has played a pivotal role in Milan’s famous music scene, premiering operas by Bellini, Verdi, and Puccini. Book a tour to explore real props and ephemera from this treasured theater’s history. Or better yet: make it a date night in Milan.

How long can I spend at La Scala?

Spend 1-2 hours exploring the museum and theater.

Insider tip

Perfect for opera fans, you may just spot some musicians rehearsing during your tour of the space.

Address

Teatro alla Scala, Via Filodrammatici, 2, 20121 Milano

Opening hours

Monday-Sunday 9:30 AM-5:30 PM

15. Villa Necchi Campiglio

Best for: Architecture enthusiasts and history lovers

Why should I visit Villa Necchi Campiglio?

A palace to Milan’s roaring 1930s and its flourishing modernist art scene, the Villa Necchi Campiglio is suitably situated close to Milan’s fashion district. This luxurious mansion museum is packed with Art Deco flourishes and stunning 20th-century furniture.

How long can I spend at Villa Necchi Campiglio?

Allocate 1-2 hours to explore the villa and its gardens.

Insider tip

Spend some time in the gardens and outdoor café, where you can wander through ivy carpets and enjoy the colorful flowerbeds.

Address

Via Mozart, 14, 20122 Milano

Opening hours

Wednesday-Sunday 10:00 AM-6:00 PM

FAQs

What are the must-visit museums in Milan?

Milan’s most revered museums include Pinacoteca di Brera, one of Italy’s best national painting collections, and Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to Da Vinci’s “The Last Supper.” There are also shrines to Renaissance art, like Pinacoteca Ambrosiana, and the excellent design museum, Triennale di Milano.

Are there any free museums in Milan?

Top museums with free entry include Palazzo Morando and Palazzo Moriggia, the Francesco Messina Studio Museum, and the permanent collections of Mudec Museum.

Are there any museums in Milan that are suitable for children and families?

Yes, kids adore discovering Leonardo da Vinci’s strange and futuristic inventions at both the National Museum of Science and Technology and at Leonardo3. The palatial Sforza Castle is also captivating for children interested in history.

For which museums in Milan are guided tours recommended?

Sprawling museums like the Sforza Castle and Royal Palace benefit from guided tours. So too do famed attractions like the Santa Maria delle Grazie and the macabre Church of San Bernadino alle Ossa. Many of Milan’s treasure-filled art museums benefit from a guide highlighting the must-see pieces with detailed context.

Are there any museum passes or discount cards available for visiting multiple museums in Milan?

A Milan Pass City Card will get you entry to participating museums, including the La Scala Museum, the Duomo’s rooftop terraces, and the Museum of Science and Technology, among others.