How to celebrate an epic Easter in Milan

Whether attending Easter mass at the Duomo or joining locals for a Pasquetta (Easter Monday) picnic in Parco Sempione, there are many incredible things to do in Milan at Easter. Italy’s capital of fashion and design is at its most lovely in spring, making this season one of the best times to visit Milan and join in the outdoor festivities. Experience the boat blessing ceremony at Darsena harbor, stroll through the streets of Brera, or taste delicious colomba (dove-shaped Easter cakes) at one of the city’s pasticcerie (pastry shops). From cultural highlights to beloved local traditions, here’s how to spend Easter in Milan.

Everything you need to know about Easter in Milan

Easter traditions: Cathedral services at the Duomo, traditional family gatherings, and Pasquetta (Easter Monday) picnics in Milan’s parks.
Best free Easter activity: Watching the annual boat blessing ceremony at the Darsena harbor on Easter morning, followed by celebrations along the Navigli canals.
Average temperatures around Easter: Around 50-64 F (10-18 C).
Festive food to try: Colomba (dove-shaped Easter cake with candied citrus and almonds) and artisanal chocolate eggs filled with handcrafted surprises.

1. Experience Easter Mass at Milan Cathedral

With its stunning Gothic architecture, the Milan Cathedral is a magnificent venue for Easter services. If you’re exploring things to do in Milan at Easter, attending mass here should be at the top of your list. Sunlight streams through medieval stained glass windows during the services, making this one of the city’s most memorable experiences.

Insider tip

Reserve your spot for Easter Sunday Mass on Milan Cathedral’s website and arrive 90 minutes early on the morning of to secure a seat with a clear view of the main altar and choir.

Address

Piazza del Duomo, 20122 Milan, Italy.

Opening hours

Easter Mass times vary; check the website for the current schedule. Regular visiting hours: 8 AM-7 PM daily.

2. View da Vinci’s Last Supper

A must-see at any time of the year, Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper feels especially meaningful during Easter in Milan. This world-famous fresco in the Santa Maria delle Grazie refectory depicts Jesus’s final meal with his disciples in a scene that resonates deeply during the Easter season.

Insider tip

Time your visit between 3 and 4 PM, when the afternoon light coming through the windows allows visitors to see the subtle color variations da Vinci used in this revolutionary fresco technique.

Address

Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2, 20123 Milan, Italy.

Opening hours

Tuesday-Sunday 8:15 AM-7 PM, closed Mondays. Advance booking is required, with 15-minute viewing slots.

3. Join the local Pasquetta celebrations

On Easter Monday, locals embrace the tradition of Pasquetta by heading outdoors for picnics and relaxation. Join families and friends sharing traditional Easter foods and playing games on blankets spread across the grass at Parco Sempione or another of Milan’s parks.

Insider tip

Order 48 hours ahead to pick up a gourmet picnic basket from Peck, a historic delicatessen that puts together regional specialties and local wines.

Address

Parco Sempione, Piazza Sempione, 20154 Milan, Italy.

Opening hours

The park is open daily from 6:30 AM to sunset.

4. Indulge in delicious Easter treats

Milan’s historic pastry shops showcase some of their finest creations during Easter week. Taste some of the best food in Milan, from artisanal colomba to hand-decorated chocolate eggs, which are made according to centuries-old recipes.

Highlight

Pasticceria Marchesi 1824’s colomba is flavored with candied Sicilian orange peel and Madagascar vanilla, while their hand-painted chocolate eggs contain artisanal surprises crafted by local artisans.

Address

Pasticceria Marchesi 1824, Via Santa Maria alla Porta, 11/a, 20123 Milan, Italy.

Opening hours

Open daily 7:30 AM-8 PM.

5. Explore the galleries of Brera

During spring in Milan, you’ll see elaborate Easter window displays in galleries and boutiques around Brera. The artistic district’s narrow cobblestone streets are animated with seasonal exhibitions and pop-up artisanal markets.

Insider tip

Visit later in the day on Good Friday when many galleries stay open late, and local wine bars offer special tastings of regional Easter wines and traditional appetizers.

6. Attend an Easter concert

The historic Teatro alla Scala and other venues put on special performances during Easter in Milan, featuring both classical masterpieces and contemporary interpretations of sacred music.

Highlight

The Good Friday concert at Teatro alla Scala traditionally features a full orchestra and choir performing Bach’s St. Matthew Passion, creating an unforgettable musical experience.

Address

Teatro alla Scala, Via Filodrammatici 2, 20121 Milan, Italy.

Opening hours

Performance times vary to check the theater’s website for the current schedule.

7. Experience La Pasqua del Marinaio ceremony

This Milanese tradition on the morning of Easter Sunday brings together the city’s religious and maritime history, in which boats receive blessings at the historic Darsena port before a colorful celebration along the canals of Navigli.

Insider tip

After the blessing ceremony, join locals at the nearby Mercato Metropolitano for a sumptuous Easter Monday lunch.

Address

Darsena, Piazza XXIV Maggio, 20144 Milan, Italy.

Opening hours

The blessing ceremony typically begins at 11 AM on Easter Sunday; check local announcements for exact timing.

Easter in Milan: FAQs

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Are attractions open in Milan during Easter?

Many of Milan’s top places to visit and major museums are open on Easter Sunday, while certain shops and restaurants may be closed.

What can I do in Milan on Easter Day?

When looking into how to spend Easter in Milan, you can visit several attractions, including Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper, Sforza Castle museums, Armani Silos, Civic Aquarium, Boschi di Stefano House Museum, GAM Gallery of Modern Art, Archaeological Museum, and Museo del Novecento. Please note that these places are open on Easter Sunday but closed on Easter Monday.

What traditional events take place in Milan during Easter?

During Easter in Milan, you can experience traditional events such as the Good Friday Procession, which is a religious parade through the streets, and various church services throughout the city. Additionally, you might find Easter markets and fairs offering local crafts and seasonal treats. These events provide a glimpse into the cultural and religious significance of Easter in Milan.

Are shops open on Easter Sunday in Milan?

While many shops in Milan may close on Easter Sunday, some larger shopping centers and tourist-focused stores might remain open, especially in central areas. However, it's a good idea to check ahead or plan your shopping for another day to ensure you have the best experience. Easter Monday, known as Pasquetta, often sees more shops and attractions open.

What is the weather like in Milan during Easter?

Easter in Milan typically falls in early spring, so you can expect mild weather with temperatures ranging from 10 C to 18 C (50 F to 64 F). While it can be sunny, there is also a chance of rain, so it’s wise to pack a light jacket and an umbrella. The pleasant weather makes it a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s attractions.