If you were to rate European travel destinations, Italy would be among the top five. It has everything one may need for the perfect getaway. It is filled with history, culture, and nature and is one of the most influential culinary countries in the world. Each region is different. It is old but modern, romantic but too soapy, and holds historical power but is not pretentious. Unlike most European countries, Italians have a sense of family and can quickly adopt strangers as family. Milan, in particular, is known for its warm and welcoming nature, making it a perfect place to travel, regardless of the place or season. This week’s post will discuss what to do, what to see, and where to go in Milan, ensuring you have a memorable experience. Before diving into our travel guide, let’s visit the history of one of the fashion capitals in the world.
History of Milan
As someone who loves history and studies politics, I feel incomplete planning a trip to a place without knowing a bit of its history. Hence, before I travel and do my preliminary research, I include learning about the country and culture of the place I want to travel to. Doing so helps me identify what I want to see while there, and it gives me a sense of the place’s culture and traditions so I know how to adjust myself and practice cultural awareness. Hence, I always provide a historical context of the places we highlight for readers to understand the areas they are visiting and the significance of what they will see on their travel journey to a set destination because, as the saying goes, you will never understand where you are going if you do not your[its] history and Milan fits that sentiment. To understand Milan, you must know its history.
Like many European cities and countries we highlighted, Milan’s history involves different rulers from various places. Italy’s present-day industrial and commercial capital has known many rulers, including the Celtics, Romans, Goths, Lombards, Spaniards, and Austrians. The Insurbes found the city in 400 BC; in 196 BC, the Romans conquered it and renamed it Mediolenum. It was seen as a sanctuary because it was a vital commercial route, allowing Romans to defend themselves against Germanic tribes. In the 3rd century, Milan became the capital of northern Italy, and when Constantine I made Christianity legal in 313 AD, Milan became one of the influential places for Christianism. As conflict rose, different rivals wanted to overtake the city. The Lombards conquered the city in 569, ending the reign of the Roman Empire. It remained under the Lombards’ rule until Frank & Charlemagne conquered the city in 774, and during this reign, Milan was the center of trade.
It faced many challenges in the years and century that followed. It became a center of contention between political and religious leaders, but under the rule of Archbishop Aribert of Milan, the church of Milan became a powerful institution. This power ensured that Milan became the crowning place of many Roman Emperors, from Otto I of Germany to Napoleon. During the Middle Ages, Milan held the power of northern Italy. It was financially and politically crucial to the region. Its dukedom saw many conflicts and takeovers by the French under Louis XIV, the Spanish, the Austrians, then the French again with Napoleon, then the Austrians again until 1859. During the reunification of Italy, Florence and then Rome became the capital of the Kingdom of Italy, but Milan retained its position as the country’s financial capital. Milan holds much of Italy’s good and bad chapters in its territory. Today, it is the second largest city in Italy and is Italy’s main industrial, financial, and commercial center. It shares the title “fashion capital of the world” with Paris. Its complex history and many outside influences make it an absolute travel treasure. Hence, it welcomes many tourists from around the world. In 2023, it saw 8.5 million visitors; among them was me!
My Adventure in Milan
My trip to Milan in 2023 was a dream four years in the making. I had missed out on visiting when I lived in France. After visiting Monaco and realizing we were two stops from entering Italy and two hours to Milan, I added a trip to Milan to my bucket list. Although it took four years to realize my trip to Milan in 2023 was the highlight of my year, what made it special was that I could give that adventure to my mother for her birthday. We went during Easter, which also fell on her birthday. Milan and its surrounding areas allowed us to enjoy this northern city’s history, culture, and culinary delights. We stayed at the Hotel Dei Cavalieri Milano Duomo in the city center near the famous Duomo di Milano. Our concierge, Remo, was one of the best concierges I have ever encountered, and he may be one of the main reasons I would go back to Milan.
He showed us hidden gems and routes many tourists need to learn about. We got to drink coffee at local cafes, interact with vendors, and go to the street market, and I got to practice my Italian language skills. We went to Scalo Milano Outlet for my shopping adventure. In the middle of our trip, we took a day trip to Rome and enjoyed its historical sights. Although my plans to visit other nearby cities were crushed by my mother’s desire to continue shopping in Milan, every day we spent in Milan provided a unique experience and a chance to interact more with the locals. Milano is filled with so much history that I had a new opportunity to visit new sights and learn more about them every day. However, my adventurous side would love to revisit the region next year to visit nearby cities like Lake Como, Verona, Venice, and Florance. However, being in Milan alone made me fall in love with the city. Although there are many things to do in the city, here are the 10 things you must see and do for your adventure in Milan!
10 Must See & Do in Milan
- Duomo Di Milano
As mentioned in the history of Milan, Milan played a significant role in Italy’s Christian history. So it is no surprise that its most famous attraction is Milan Cathedral, also known as Duomo di Milano. It is one of the largest churches in the world, and when you visit Milan, you cannot miss it. Although the saying states “all roads lead to Rome,” when in Milan, all roads lead to Duomo. The Gothic-style cathedral took six centuries to complete, and many artists, including Leonardo di Vinci, contributed to its construction. It features a spacious marble interior with columns and carved statues. Its architecture gives the church its luxury, whether you are outside or inside. It is prettified with 135 gargoyles and 3,400 statues. It contained 15th and 16th-century stain-glass windows, 52 humongous pillars, and Pellegrino Pellegrini’s designed alters. When inside, ensure you grasp every aspect of the church and discover unique gems spread around the spacious church. Look up at the dome, and you will find the nail used to crucify Jesus. Duomo di Milano also contains some tombs. It is the burial place of Gian Giacomo Medici, the former Duke of Marignano, and San Carlo Borromeo, the Archbishop of Milan from 1564 to 1584. Complete your visit to the Duomo with a trip up the rooftop for a magical city view.
- Sforza Castle
The word “castle” can be misleading when you visit Sforza Castle expecting to see a Chateau. However, do not be discouraged. Although it is not a castle like Buckingham or Versailles, Sforza Castle is still worth a visit. Sforza Castle is a 15th-century fortification commissioned by Lord Francesco Sforza, hence the castle’s name. During the 20th century, the people of Milan had mixed feelings towards the castle because instead of being a symbol of protection against foreigners, it became a military dwelling place for foreign armies who used the fortress to attack Milaneses. However, after liberation against foreign powers, the locals decided to keep the fortress and restore it to its original construction. After the World Wars, it became the center of art, and people could visit and admire various paintings by prominent Italian painters. Today, it remains the center of art and culture. It houses an art gallery, an archaeological museum where you will see artifacts from prehistorical times, and an Egyptian Museum. The compound also includes a large park to give you a break from walking through the rocky, sandy pathways at the castle.
- Arco della Pace or Arc de Triomphe
When you think of Arc de Triomphe, you may immediately think of Paris! However, Paris is not the only city with the Arc de Triomphe. Milan and Paris share more in common than the title of the world’s Fashion capitals. They also share the same monument, which were both commissioned by Napoleon. Like the one in Paris, Napoleon did not live long enough to see its completion. In Paris, the arc was completed under the rule of King Louis-Phillip, whom Napoleon would not have loved as he was an anti-monarchist. In Milan, the arc that Napoleon commissioned to link Milan to Paris and depict Napoleon’s victories ended up depicting his defeat, illustrating how history was not favorable to Napoleon. While in Paris, the arc is dubbed the arc of triumph, in Milan, it is the arc of peace as the Milanese gained their second independence under French rule.
- Teatro alla Scala
Did you know that opera originated in Italy during the Renaissance? Although Venice was the first to establish an opera house, Milan hosts the most famous opera house in the world. Teatro Alla Scala is a must-visit for anyone interested in music, history, and culture. It has hosted the best performers, from Bellini to Verdi. The neoclassical building welcomes you to learn the history of opera and its influence in Milan and Italy. You can also enjoy a concert in the evening as the theater hosts performances such as ballets, operas, and orchestras. Enjoy the decorative elements of the opera, like the chandeliers, the velvet red seat, and the gold that shines throughout the theater. During the day, you can take a guided tour of the theater and the nearby museum. You will find costumes, instruments, paintings, and statues. You will see literature about the theater, opera, and ballet performances in the library.
- Galleria Victorio Emmanuelle II
You may have heard of an open-space museum, but have you ever heard of an open-space mall where you can find luxury brands like Prada, Gucci, Giorgio Armani, Dior, and others? Welcome to Galleria Victorio Emmanuelle II, where history, culture, and shopping collide. As one of the fashion capitals in the world, it is natural to assume that Milan would have many shopping centers. However, Galleria Victorio Emmanuelle II is more than a shopping center. It is a place where you can admire art, architecture, and history, have good food, and do some of the most expensive shopping in your life. Located between Duomo di Milano and Teatro alla Scala, the gallery is one of the most luxurious-looking pathways you will ever walk on. The gallery was built in 1877 to improve the aesthetic of Plaza del Duomo, and the architecture accomplished its mission. The building’s neoclassical and Renaissance-style architecture, the elaborately arched four entrances, and glass domes ensure your eyes are always wandering around and you are breathless at every sighting. The architect thought through every aspect of its architecture well. Beautiful mosaics, patterns, paintings, and sculptures exist, from the dome to the walls and even the floor you will be walking on. At the mall’s center, you will find a bull, and legends say that if you spin around the bull three times, you will have good luck. Outside of shopping and enjoying the architecture, you can also enjoy dining at restaurants inside the mall. Next to the mall’s east entrance, you will find the Ferrari store, where you can go and try a session in one of the F1 simulators. The gallery is a must-visit in Milan and will not disappoint.
- “The Last Supper” @ Santa Maria delle Grazie
As mentioned above, Milan is a city that symbolizes art and history. One piece that embodies the spirit of art and history is the famous “The Last Supper” painting by the very renowned Leonardo da Vinci. When you visit, you will experience a triple dose of history as you marvel at the painting by Leonardo da Vinci and the church that houses the painting, Santa Maria delle Grazie—Saint Mary of Grace. Although the painting is why the church is famous, Santa Maria delle Grazie holds historical significance in the history of Milan. Its construction began in 1463, and in the 15th century, Bramante remodeled the architecture. While at the church, you will admire the work of Bramante, who enlarged the church from its previous construction. The complex includes a church and a convent, and 34 years after its existence, it became the home of the famous painting The Last Supper. The Duke of Milan commissioned the painting, and Leonardo da Vinci took two years to complete the work that depicts Jesus and his disciples as he told his disciples, “One of you will betray me.” Although the bombs damaged the site during WWII, the complex preserved its original architectural structure, and the painting miraculously surprised, adding another interesting factor to this must-see Milano sighting.
- Navigli District
Another Milanese destination that every traveler has to visit is Navigli District. Like many of the sightings listed in this guide, Navigli District is a hub that embodies Milan’s history and culture. The district has charming canals, restaurants with delicious Milanese and Italian cuisines, a Friday street market, and vibrant nightlife beckoning travelers to enjoy the good times in Milan. The canals were built in the 12th century to transport goods. Today, it has evolved into a historical neighborhood that gives visitors the taste of old Milan with modern twists. You can stroll along the canals and discover different boutiques for clothes or shoes. There are also art galleries that you can explore, restaurants, and clubs. It is always lively, and regardless of whether you visit in the morning or at night, you will have an enjoyable time in the district. Must-visit district spots include Naviglio Grande, where you will find the oldest and most famous canal. Another must-visit spot is Mercato Metropolitano, where you can sample authentic Italian cuisine. To explore more of the districts, you can book a ticket for an Aperitivo Tour, where you will enjoy the districts with a small group of visitors and end the night with an aperitivo.
- San Siro Stadium
There are few European cities you can travel to without feeling the spirit of football, which Americans call soccer. In some European cities, you cannot return without indulging in their football culture. Such cities include Paris, Barcelona, Madrid, London, Manchester, and Milan. As the home of the famous AC Milan football club, it is reasonable to visit its renowned stadium, San Siro. Take a tour of the arena that made football history. As the site states, “Live the San Siro Experience from the Perspective of the Champions.” The stadium tour gives you insight into the football organization from backstage to the different angles of the stadium. You will find jerseys of Milan’s football stars at the San Siro Museum. You will get a backstage pass to the locker room, where players gather and prepare before going to win championships. You will walk through the players’ tunnels and get a closer view of the field. The tour to San Siro includes all aspects of the stadium, including what it feels like to sit on the bleachers while the seven-time European Cup champions play their home games. This destination is a football fan’s dream. However, even non-football fans will enjoy the day or afternoon at this renowned attraction.
- Golden Quadrangle
As the last shopping destination included in this post, it is fair to have a disclaimer about visiting this part of Milan. If you do not have a hefty bank account but love fashion, proceed to this destination cautiously because the Golden Quadrangle is where fashion meets wealth. The Golden Quadrangle notarizes Milan’s claim as the world’s fashion capital. It is home to Milan’s most exclusive high-end boutiques and workshops. North of Duomo di Milano, every inch of the district is home to the best haut-couture fashion, from Valentino, Armani, Versace to Ferragamo. Via Monte Napoleon, you will find Prada, Gucci, Cartier, Fendi and much more. It is a great place to window shop while dreaming of entering the store one day. If you love people-watching or dream of falling in love with a rich Italian man or woman, cafes nearby are a must-hang-out area.
- Visit Lake Como Towns
Lastly, a visit to Milan is complete once you visit the small towns around it. As a traveler, after seeing everything at a set destination or needing a detente, I like to travel outside the city to surrounding towns or villages to relax, see new things, and reset before returning to my destinations. While in Milan, there were several destinations I dreamed of visiting but did not get a chance to, but that does not mean you shouldn’t either. One of those destinations was the town of Lake Como.
If you think you can only enjoy the blue water and mountain view in the South of Italy, Lake Como will make you rethink that assumption. Lake Como itself is a variety of destinations. It is composed of small towns that surround the beautiful lake. You can visit Como, the main village, or other cities such as Bellagio, Lecco Tremezzo, Varenna, and Cernobbio. Regardless of which town you choose to see, the region is a perfect destination to relax, enjoy nature, and learn about its history. In Como, you will explore the medieval center and its Renaissance architecture. Bellagio offers traditional charm with boutiques where you can enjoy shopping and lakeside arcades. Although it welcomes fewer tourists than its neighbors, Lecco offers natural beauty, including lakeside promenades and mountains. In Tremezzo, historic buildings, villas, and gardens, such as the famous Villa Callota. Varenna gives you a picturesque getaway of bright houses and charming pathways like the “Walk of Lovers.” Cernobbio is a holiday destination with a beautiful view of the lake’s musical festivals. The Villa d’Este is a 16th-century residence transformed into a luxurious hotel. These towns and villages give you a break from the bustling Milan but can sometimes be crowded, and many tourists love to escape there. Its low peak season is April and October, giving you more room to fall peacefully and view its natural beauty without fighting with other tourists.
To conclude, Milan proves why a visit to Italy is worth it. As the country’s financial capital, it provides many reasons for Italy’s boosting tourism economy. Walking the streets of Milan is like walking on history. Every corner gives you something new to learn, explore, or indulge in. Milan has everything from fashion, art, and historical monuments to music and history to make your travel exploration memorable. Although this post only highlights ten must-see destinations, there are more things to do in the fashion capital. You can visit basílica di sant’ambrogio, the Pinacoteca, or the Leonardo3 Museum. Plus, do not forget to indulge in its delicious cuisines, which you will find on every street corner. Make sure to visit the Milan tourism office for more options and personalized tour guides around this one-of-a-kind city.
Thank you for reading! Until next time, Ciao
Xoxo,
Cy
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