So here I am in Milan with a day off and a thirst to get a taste of what this iconic Italian city has to offer. With a little bit of research and forward planning I had a good idea of what to see and do with a few hours in Milan. My day starts at the Piazza Duomo.
Duomo di Milano
The stunning Duomo di Milano dominates the square and it’s truly an impressive structure. The story of the cathedral spans over six centuries with original building work estimated to have started around 1386. Its sheer size, ornate spires, intricately carved statues and beautifully decorated interior make it a must visit while in the city. Here’s a few tips from me. Make sure you walk around the entire exterior of the duomo, there’s an amazing amount of detail to see, and it’s free. If you have time, visit the interior and definitely try and get tickets to go up to the terraces. All the information you need can be found here.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Having admired and visited the Duomo, just across the piazza is my next stop the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a beautiful glass roofed shopping arcade. Designed by the architect Giuseppe Mengoni and built between 1865 and 1877 this is now Italys oldest active shopping arcade. Amongst all the upmarket shops and restaurants in here, take some time to enjoy the mosaic floor and the grandeur of the building. The galleria is named after Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of the Kingdom of Italy.
Castello Sforzesco
Leaving the Piazza Duomo, I take a walk along the traffic free Via Dante, one of Milan’s premier shopping streets filled with high end retailers and restaurants. Towering up at the far end of Via Dante is the Castello Sforzesco, a 15th century castle built by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan into one of the largest citadels in Europe.
The history of the castle dates back to the 14th century and has undergone several rebuilds and additions over hundreds of years. Today the castle houses several museums and galleries one of which displays Michelangelo’s last unfinished work, the Pieta. To enter the museum’s there is an entry fee, however the castle grounds are free to enjoy.
Parco Sempione
Right next to the Castello Sforzesco is the Parco Sempione, one of Milan’s largest parks and a nice place to take a break from the busy city streets. The park was laid out in 1888 being designed by Emilio Alemagna and covering 95 acres. Make some time to walk around the lake and don’t miss the Arco Della Pace (The arch of peace).
San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore
From the outside the church of San Maurizio is very understated, in fact you could very easily miss it. However, it doesn’t get its nickname as “the Sistine Chapel of Milan” for no reason. Walk through the doors and you’ll be amazed at what you see, one of the most beautiful church interiors that I’ve ever seen. It is truly stunning.
The church’s interior is decorated with frescoes painted by Bernardino Luini and his workshop between 1513 and 1529. These frescoes depict the life of San Maurizio including his martyrdom in Thebes and his canonisation. Entry into the church is free but do check for opening times.
Basilica Di Sant’Ambrogio
Dating back to 379 AD the Basilica Di Sant’Ambrogio is well worth a visit. Featuring a fresco depicting the life and death of Saint Ambrose, a crypt with the tombs of several arch bishops and a beautiful alter decorated with gold and inlaid with marble.
Columns of San Lorenzo
Built in the 12th century as part of a Romanesque church and standing 22 meters tall the columns sit in the city’s central square, Piazza San Lorenzo. Made of brick and featuring decorative arches and Corinthian capitals at their tops the columns have seen some of Milan’s most important historical events including the coronation ceremony of Napoleon in 1805.
Next to the columns is the Medieval Porta Ticinese, a gate of the 12th century walls of Milan. It’s now one of only three remaining medieval gates in the city built in the gothic style.
Navigli Canal District
To finish off what to see and do with a day in Milan I wandered down to the Navigli canal district, a vibrant area filled with bars and restaurants. Obviously after a day of walking and sightseeing it was time to stop and enjoy a Hugo spritz as the sunset over the canal.
I had a wonderful time in the city and I hope this post gives you some inspiration of what to see and do with a day in Milan.
To read about more of my travel adventures click here.