Truth be told,
Milan doesn't get enough credit as a great place for sightseeing. This may sound weird considering that it's a world-famous metropolis and is undoubtedly one of Italy's top tourist destinations, but it admittedly falls short compared to other, equally famous cities. Rome, Florence, and Venice have it beat, especially since all of these cities have such iconic sights to see. What about Milan? What are the quintessential spots to visit here? Duomi di Milano, the Navigli Canals, and Leonardo Da Vinci's iconic Last Supper mural in Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie are a few, but the city has a lot more to offer!
Duomi di Milano
Naturally, the iconic Duomo di Milano starts this list. Paris has the Eiffel Tower, London has The Big Ben, New York City has the Statue of Liberty, and Milan has this breathtaking piece of Gothic architecture. That's how famous this cathedral is! Located in the
Centro Storico district, it's practically the symbol of the city and one of the best man-made marvels in the world. Duomo di Milano is even one of the biggest churches on the planet! That should tell you how amazing it is and why you should see it when given the chance!
Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie
The Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie may not compare to the Duomo di Milano in terms of its architecture, but there's another, more famous reason why you should still check it out—”The Last Supper” mural by Leonardo Da Vinci. That's right! You'll find one of Da Vinci's most famous works in this very church on Via Giuseppe Antonio Sassi, right smack in the middle of
Milan's central neighborhoods. Its renown is only second to the iconic “Mona Lisa” in the Louvre in Paris. How's that for a must-see?
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Milan's Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is quite possibly the world's most famous shopping mall. Or, at the very least, the most Instagrammed mall on the planet! Any fashionista or social media influencer knows that one snapshot or selfie within its famed gilded halls is enough to let everyone on the internet know that you're living it up in Milan. Even if you can't afford to shop in the designer boutiques inside, you should still check this man-made marvel out for yourself!
Sforzesco Castle
One of the best parts about
moving to Milan—or any other European city, for that matter—is getting to be surrounded by historic structures left and right. Milan is undoubtedly a history buff's paradise, complete with some of the most historic landmarks on the continent! One such is Sforzesco Castle, which dates back as far as the 15th century. Not only is it one of the best preserved castles from Medieval Italy, but it was once one of Europe's largest citadels. Isn't that fascinating?
Pinacoteca di Brera
It's a shame that Pinacoteca di Brera isn't as famous as many of the other spots on this list. There's no doubt that it's a quintessential sight to see in Milan, but it's admittedly underrated compared to how famous Duomo di Milano or the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade are. Not only is the building, which is an exquisite piece of Renaissance and Neoclassical architecture, a feast for the eyes, but this museum also boasts one of the biggest and most renowned collections of Renaissance art in the world.
Teatro alla Scala
Teatro alla Scala is the ultimate classic theater that you shouldn't miss if you're sightseeing in Milan. Founded by Archduchess Maria Theresa in the 18th century, it's undoubtedly one of the world's finest opera houses. If the Opera Garnier in Paris didn't have a popular book and musical set in it, Teatro alla Scala might just be the most famous opera house on the planet! The theater has retained its old-world glamour and classic opulence, complete with velvet seating, gilded boxes, and more.
Bosco Verticale
If there's one spot on this list that Milan can boast is actually unique to the city, it's Bosco Verticale! This residential complex in the
Porta Nuova district has among the highest skyscrapers in the city, presenting a nice, modern contrast to the city's classic structures. The lush greenery that covers both buildings also makes the complex look straight out of the Gardens of Babylon. Or perhaps even Pandora from James Cameron's iconic Avatar movies. That's how extraordinary this place truly is!
Navigli Canals
Navigli is one of Milan's most beloved neighborhoods, largely because of its serene canals. With scenery that looks straight out of Venice, it's no surprise that this peaceful and picturesque district is loved by locals and tourists alike. Most of the time, people go here to relax by the canals and enjoy the chill nightlife district. Traditional trattorias, charming cafes, and trendy bistros provide the perfect setting (and food!) for a good time here!
Parco Sempione
Every big city has that one beloved park that's as famous as its iconic landmarks. There's Central Park in New York City, Hyde Park in London, and the Tuileries Garden in Paris, to name a few. In Milan, it's Parco Sempione! Not only is it the city's largest park, but it's also located right smack in the middle of the historic center. Those who decided to spend their day sightseeing will have no trouble going here for a break and getting some much-needed botanical bliss. It's definitely one of
Milan's best parks!
Quadrilatero della Moda
Quadrilatero della Moda is admittedly not as famous as the other spots on this list, but it's still worth checking out! Let's not forget that Milan is known as Italy's fashion capital, right up there along the likes of Paris, London, and New York City. Though the most famous Italian brands have their headquarters in various parts of the city, not to mention their massive flagship stores too, Quadrilatero della Moda still stands out as the ultimate fashionable street in Milan. It's a beautiful strip of high-end boutiques between Centro Storico's grand mansions.
From the iconic Duomo di Milano to the more unique Bosco Verticale, discover Milan's best sights to see! These are the quintessential spots everyone, be they local or tourist alike, should see at least once in their lives!
