Discover the Best of Milan
You can't go wrong with these top ten things to do in Milan.
Wildlife
Wander into the Quadrangle of Silence near Piazza Eleonora Duse and you might stumble upon the secret garden of Palazzo Invernizzi, which has been home to a colony of pink flamingos for more than 30 years. While this is private property, it is still a treat to spot these colorful birds through the fence.
National Park
About an hour's drive from Milan, Val Grande National Park is the largest unpopulated Wilderness in all of Italy. This park, located in the Alps, boasts staggering rocky peaks, grassy meadows and streams. It is an excellent place for hiking, especially in autumn when the deciduous foliage is at its finest.
Archeological Site
You don't have to go to Rome to visit Roman ruins. In fact, Milan has several Roman archeological sites to explore such as the Colonne di San Lorenzo, a group of ancient columns located in front of the Bascilica of San Lorenzo, Archi di Porta Nuova, and many more.
UNESCO Site
The church of Santa Maria Della Grazie may not sound that exciting, but it's what's inside that counts. This church is home to one of the most famous paintings in the world—Leonardo Da Vinci's "The Last Supper," which is painted on the church's refectory wall.
Cultural Experience
Attending a musical performance at the historic Teatro La Scala is a must in Milan. As one of the most famous opera houses in the world, this 18th century theater located in downtown Milan is chock full of history and classical music at its finest.
Best Day Trip
The best thing about staying in Milan is that you are within arm's reach of many incredible sites and cities. The two most notable that you can see in a day trip are Verona for Shakespeare fans, where you can see where Romeo and Juliet took place; and Cremona for music fans, where you can visit the Violin Museum and see Stradivarius violins firsthand.
Most Iconic Attraction
At the mention of Milan, you undoubtedly have a picture of Duomo di Milano in your head. This massive cathedral is the most iconic landmark in this northern Italian city, and also happens to be the largest gothic cathedral in the world, so it is not to be missed.
Historic Site
One of the main sights to see in Milan is Castello Sforzesco, a castle that has had many identities over the centuries, from a private residence to a defense fortress and military barracks. These days it houses many civic museums, including the Museo d'Arte Antica, and the Museo della Pietà Rondanini which holds the last masterpiece of Michelangelo.
- Nat Geo Expeditions
People-Watching Spot
One of the most popular places to visit in Milan is the Navigli district, which consists of a centuries-old canal and waterway system, and a dam designed by Leonardo Da Vinci himself. Not only is this a very picturesque and historic spot, but it is also home to cafes and bars that are hopping during the day and evening.
Embrace Inner Beauty
The dull, gray exterior of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore makes you want to just pass it by, but step inside, and you'll find that this 16th-century chapel and Benedectine convent is filled to the brim with colorful fresco masterpieces and an impressive organ.