Milan is generally not on the top of people’s lists for places to go in Italy. If anything, it’s usually a necessary stop over before visiting one of the other amazing destinations the country has to offer. What that means is that there is more to enjoy for those who live there. Besides eat, which is basically my favorite thing to do in Milan, here are my top recommendations for things to do in Milan based on my personal experience living there for a year. For more on Milan, see my related posts:
- The Best Neighborhoods in Milan
- The Best Pizza in Milan
- The Best Pasta in Milan
- The Best Panini & Prosciutto in Milan
- The Best International Food in Milan
Climb the Duomo
If you’re not sure what do it in Milan, arguably the most famous site is the Duomo, and for good reason. You can visit the Duomo rooftop by climbing the stairs or using an elevator. Personally, I recommend taking the stairs unless you have limitations. There are different ticket types depending if you want to go to the museum, the rooftop, the archeological area and St. Charle’s crypt. The one thing I really recommend is the rooftop because the views are beautiful, especially at sunset. If you’re into archeology, the archeological area is great. Book tickets in advance.
Visit Fondazione Prada
Fondazione Prada is one of my favorite things to do in Milan. Fondazione Prada is an art museum in Milan with several permanent exhibitions and rotating temporary exhibitions. It’s always a feast for the senses, and you never know what strange exhibition will be coming next. There is also the famous Bar Luce located in the same building which is worth a visit for a coffee and an Instagram photo.
Shop at Moscova District Market
Discounted luxury goods? Sign me up. Moscova District Market is located in the neighborhood of Brera. To enter, you must sign up for a time slot on their site. Besides that, anyone can go. Depending on your timing you can find absolutely amazing luxury goods for a fraction of the price. However, it’s hit and miss. Their selection changes all the time so it’s worth following them on Instagram to see what they have at the moment. I’ve gotten some incredible items there by following what they have in stock at the moment. This dress is Jonathan Simkhai, bought at Moscova District Market for less than 100 euros.
Walk Around Brera & Park Sempione
Brera is such a fantastic neighborhood with beautiful boutiques and restaurants. I recommend just walking around Corso Giribaldi and popping into different places. Then I’d walk to nearby Sempione park to enjoy the park and people watch (and dog watch).
Luxuriate in the Spa at QC Terme
I love a good spa, and Italy doesn’t disappoint. The QC Terme brand is a high-end chain that exists all over Italy. I’ve been to their branches in Milan and Bagni Nuovo – which is a truly insane experience – and I would visit all of them. It definitely gets busy on the weekends, but there are often good deals for half days or full days during the week. The spa is indoor/outdoor with various rooms and pools. You can also get massages, facials, etc.
Visit Castello Sforzesco
Continue from Brera and Sempione Park into Castello Sforzesco which sits between Sempione and the Duomo area. I’ve never actually visited the museum at the Castello, but just walking around it is a great experience. If you do choose to visit, the tickets are five euros to visit the exhibitions.
Visit The Last Supper
A visit to The Last Supper is great to do at least once. You cannot take pictures inside, and the visit is generally just the painting. The tickets are only 15 euros, but you need to book in advance. This is an attraction that always sells out in advance. It is located near the church of Santa Maria Della Grazie which isn’t super central, so another option would be to go on a guided tour where you can skip the line and also see some other sites.
Tours in Milan
If you want to make it easy, check out some of the many tours there are in Milan for a guided experience.
