5 of the best things to do in Milan

Chris Butler August 09th, 2019 3,158 views

The cosmopolitan city of Milan has something for everyone. From art and architecture to fashion and football, here are five of the best things to do on a visit to the Italian city...

Go shopping in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Visiting Milan without shopping (or at least looking) would be wrong, and there's arguably no better place to shop than in The Galleria Vittorio. This 19th-century gem is one of the most elegant arcades in the world, and features an array of iconic designer brands like Prada, Versace and Georgio Armani. There are also a number of great places to eat for after you've "shopped till you drop"; it's likely the arcade will be one of the most aesthetically pleasing places to eat spaghetti in the city.

Visit the Duomo Cathedral

Standing tall in the cities' central Piazza del Duomo, the Duomo (Milan Cathedral) is probably the most famous landmark in the city. The cathedral is the third-largest in Europe - it took six centuries to build, beginning in 1386 and finally completed in 1965 - and it's fair to say it was worth the wait. Guided tours are available, which include access to the rooftop area; from here you can see right out across the city.

Spend the evening in the Navigli canal district

About 20 minutes out by tram from the Duomo, you'll reach the picturesque canal district of Navigli. The area is one of the liveliest in Milan, with a swath of bars and restaurants either side of the canal. Many of the bars in the area (and in Milan generally) offer 'aperitivos', access to nibbles/buffet after purchasing a cocktail. Head to Rita & Cocktails for some of the best drinks in the district.

Visit the San Siro stadium

Milan's iconic football stadium, the San Siro, is set to be demolished within the next couple of years. The stadium - shared by AC Milan and Inter Milan - has been one of European football's most cherished grounds since 1926. Stadium tours are readily available, which includes access to both sides' dressing rooms, and to the pitchside dugouts. If you're in Milan during the league season, you may even be able to catch a match.

See some of Da Vinci's most celebrated art

Hidden away in an unassuming street a short walk from Sforzesco Castle you'll find one of the world's most famous paintings. Locked behind several protective glass doors in Santa Maria delle Grazie church is Leonardo Da Vinci's masterpiece, The Last Supper. Painted in the 1490s, the full wall painting depicts Jesus and his Apostles last meal before his crucifixion, is truly a sight to behold. Tickets are in very high demand, so make sure you book your tickets in advance.