Best Places to Visit in Milan Italy: A couple of friends of mine traveled to Milan a few days ago. I like it very much. I can’t resist the urge to share my trip to Milan with you. Honestly Milan is a city that really captured my heart. If I sum it up, Milan is unique because of the blend of ancient sites, contemporary vitality and daily Italian life, not only its well-known monuments. Walking the streets seemed to me as like discovering a place where every corner had a narrative. These are my best places from my Milan trip, a visit to Commitca.
(1) Duomo di Milano, Milan Cathedral
Comprising almost six centuries of work, Milan’s heart and soul is the Duomo. My initial impression of this soaring Gothic wonder made me mute. Though I had read about its scope, standing before it is something else. Early morning is the greatest time to escape the throng and enjoy its beauty in quiet. As the sun rises, the complex marble facade shines to accentuate every minute carving detail.
Still, I thought the rooftop view was great. Given a close-up of the Duomo’s renowned spires and a panoramic view of Milan, the climb is reasonable and well worth it. Standing amid them, you can sense the weight of past events and the commitment that went into building this framework. I would advise arranging your trip for sunrise or evening when the city glows softly. One experience I will never forget.
Tip: Book your tickets online to skip the line and head straight to the rooftop if possible.
(2) Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Right next to the Duomo is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Italy’s oldest shopping arcade. Walking through this 19th-century gallery was like stepping back in time. It’s more than just a place to shop; it’s an architectural beauty with its grand arches and glass dome ceiling. The Galleria is worth a visit for its ambiance alone even if you’re not going to indulge on premium labels.
One of my best memories is savoring an espresso in a café here. Seeing the tastefully attired residents and visitors mix under the stained-glass ceiling was like being part of a live, breathing artwork. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit in the morning. By evening, it’s packed with shoppers, diners, and travelers marveling at its elegance.
Tip: If you’re feeling lucky, spin on your heel over the bull mosaic on the floor. It’s a local tradition that’s supposed to bring good fortune!
(3) Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco)
Sforza Castle is a slice of Milanese history, and entering felt as though one entered the Renaissance. Originally home to the honorable Sforza family, this fortification currently features several museums and art collections including Michelangelo’s unfinished Pietà Rondanini.
The lovely Parco Sempione, ideal for a leisurely walk, surrounds the castle. Sitting by the fountain in front and taking in the mix of visitors and residents having a great day appealed to me. The art collection within the castle is large, hence I would advise choosing the items you most wish to view.
Tip: Visit in the afternoon for fewer crowds and end your day with a sunset stroll through the park.
(4) Santa Maria delle Grazie and The Last Supper
Seeing The Last Supper live was a very moving event. Though outwardly simple, Santa Maria delle Grazie contains one of Leonardo da Vinci’s most well-known pieces of art. Looking at the mural in that silent space, I had a kind of respect difficult to articulate.
Tickets sell quickly, thus book much in advance. When I went in the afternoon, it was rather calm, which let me enjoy the details free from the bustle of a big gathering. The guide’s analysis of the painting’s symbolism gave what I was seeing depth.
Tip: Book tickets as early as possible, as entry is strictly controlled to preserve the artwork.
(5) Brera District
If there’s one neighborhood that truly captures Milan’s bohemian soul, it’s Brera. Wandering through its cobbled streets felt like discovering a hidden part of the city. The district is filled with art galleries, cozy cafes, and boutique shops. Brera has a charm that’s different from Milan’s grand monuments—it’s intimate and artistic.
For those who enjoy art, the Pinacoteca di Brera gallery here is absolutely must-see. I lost hours in appreciation of Italian classics, particularly those by Raphael and Caravaggio. Still, the neighborhood itself was really the highlight. From a modest, family-run store, I came upon a little bookshop bursting with old volumes and had the nicest gelato of my trip.
Tip: Visit in the late afternoon when the sun casts a warm glow over the neighborhood, making it even more picturesque.
(6) Navigli Canals
Navigli turned out to be surprising. Milan is not a city with canals, hence I did not consider this area to have any atmosphere at all. It is calm and perfect for a leisurely coffee by the lake during the day. But by dusk Navigli bursts with vitality. Lights reflect off the canals, and the restaurants and bars fill up with locals and tourists alike.
I enjoyed wandering along the canals, soaking in the festive atmosphere. Grab a spot at one of the cafes for aperitivo (Italy’s pre-dinner drinks with snacks), and watch the world go by. Navigli feels like a celebration every evening, and the locals’ warmth and friendliness make it even better.
Tip: Arrive before sunset to secure a good spot by the water and watch as the district transitions from day to night.
(7) Sempione Park and Arco della Pace
Having seen Sforza Castle, I then wandered into Parco Sempione, a verdant, expansive park ideal for relaxing. Beautiful strolling trails abound in this verdant sanctuary; at one end you will see the triumphal arch Napoleon ordered, the Arco della Pace. Here I spend a wonderful afternoon lounging under a tree with a book.
The park is lively yet peaceful, with locals jogging, couples picnicking, and families enjoying the open space. It’s a perfect escape from the city’s busy streets. I’d recommend bringing a snack and enjoying the calmness—sometimes the best memories come from these simple moments.
Tip: The park is particularly beautiful in spring and autumn when the trees are vibrant.
(8) Pinacoteca di Brera
I couldn’t miss the amazing collection of Italian art housed in the Pinacoteca di Brera as I love art. The works on show in the exhibition are quite captivating; it is right in Brera. Among others, I became lost in bits by Raphael and Caravaggio.
This gallery allows you room to really see the treasures, unlike other of Italy’s larger museums which seem packed. The building itself is lovely, with a courtyard providing a quiet time either before or after your visit.
Tip: Try to go in the early morning when it’s quieter and you can enjoy the art at your own pace.
(9) Monumental Cemetery (Cimitero Monumentale)
Though it’s not your usual travel destination, Cimitero Monumentale is among Milan’s most distinctive sites. Comprising finely crafted graves and statues, this cemetery is like an outdoor museum. As I walked through, I was both in wonder and thoughtful. The art and craftsmanship here are incredible, and it’s a quiet, reflective place away from the city’s hustle.
Each grave has its own story, and the sculptures range from classical to modern styles. Visiting here gives you a different perspective on Milan—a place where even cemeteries are artistic masterpieces.
Tip: Visit in the morning for a peaceful experience and the best light for photos.
(10) Porta Nuova and Bosco Verticale (Best Places to Visit in Milan Italy)
Porta Nuova is Milan’s answer to modernity. This district is filled with futuristic skyscrapers, and the Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest) is the standout. These two residential towers are covered in thousands of trees and plants, a green oasis in the urban landscape.
It was refreshing to see Milan’s commitment to blending nature and urban living. Walking through Porta Nuova, I felt like I was in a city that’s both old and new. It’s a great spot for architecture lovers and an inspiring example of sustainable design.
Tip: Evening light highlights the greenery on Bosco Verticale beautifully. It’s a peaceful spot for a stroll.
(11) Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology
Being a lover of science as much as art, I missed the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum. The biggest science museum in Italy, it features amazing displays on models, inventions, and a collection of scientific tools including those of da Vinci.
It opened her eyes to see his sketches come to life as models. For guests of all ages, the museum offers an interesting trip into the head of one of the greatest minds in history.
Tip: Allow at least a few hours to explore the museum fully—it’s packed with interesting exhibits.
Milan invites you to discover its layers at your own speed; it reveals its beauty gently. From its great sites to the subdued elegance of its districts, this city is as much about the major events as it is about the little revelations. Every area left an imprint on me, and I left Milan with a feeling of continuing appeal—a city that seems both rooted in past and open to the future.
Milan has plenty to offer any visitor, regardless of their frequency—first-time or returning for the hundredth times. Slower, enjoy the cappuccino, and let Milan show itself to you one lovely moment at a time.
A couple of friends of mine traveled to Milan a few days ago. I like it very much. I can’t resist the urge to share my trip to Milan with you. Honestly Milan is a city that really captured my heart. If I sum it up, Milan is unique because of the blend of ancient sites, contemporary vitality and daily Italian life, not only its well-known monuments. Walking the streets seemed to me as like discovering a place where every corner had a narrative. These are my best places from my Milan trip, a visit to Commitca.
