Milan

1) II Duomo – The largest church in the world, II Duomo or the Cathedral of Santa Maria Nascente, is the most magnificent place in Milan. The church comprises 135 carved stone pinnacles, 2245 marble statues, 52 gigantic pillars, and Gothic-style architecture. Explore the seven-branched bronze candelabrum by Nicholas of Verdun in the north region, San Carlo Borromeo in the octagonal Borromeo Chapel, and choir behind the high altar. Moreover, you can take a walk on the roof of the cathedral to soak in the beauty of Milan city and the snow-covered Alps.

-Location – Duomo di Milano is situated at Piazza del Duomo in Milano.
-Entry Fee/Price (Only if applicable) – A visit to the church is free but a small admission fee has to be paid to visit the roof.
-Timings (Only if applicable) – II Duomo opens by 9 am and closes by 7 pm.

2)  Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper – Designed by Italy’s most influential Renaissance architect, Bramante, Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper is an epitome of beauty. The Gothic church of Santa Maria Delle Grazie and adjoining refectory holding the Last Supper were brought to life after the destruction caused by World War II. Tourists usually visit this place to admire Leonardo’s work on the refectory wall, known as Cenacolo Vinciano. The most important thing to consider is that entrance is limited and restricted to people holding advance timed tickets.

-Location – This place can be found at Piazza Santa Maria Delle Grazie 2 in Milan.
-Price (Only if applicable) – The entrance fee for visiting the place ranges between 10€ to 15€.
-Timings (Only if applicable) – Entry to the church begins from 8.15 am to 7.30 pm from Tuesday to Sunday.

3) Castello Sforzesco – Built-in 1368, Castello Sforzesco was one of the largest citadels in Europe. Currently, this place is known for multiple museums and exquisite art collections at the galleries. The Castello has Michelangelo’s last masterpiece which was brought from Rome in 1953 and is known as the Pieta Rondanini. For history enthusiasts, Castello Sforzesco showcase the museum of Eqyptian antiquities, musical history, and an armoury of weapons. Also, for the artistic souls, there is a picture gallery showcasing artworks by Bellini, Correggio, Mantegna, Bergognone, Foppa, Lotto, Tintoretto, and Antonello da Messina.

-Location – Castello Sforzesco is situated at Piazza Castello, 20121 Milano MI.
-Price (Only if applicable) – To visit the Castello, the entry is free, whereas, if you want to visit the museums, you will have to pay €10.
-Timings (Only if applicable) – Castello opens from 7 am and closes by 7.30 pm every day. To visit the museums, visit from 9 am to 5.30 pm between Tuesday to Sunday.

4) San Maurizio and the Archaeology Museum – San Maurizio is a significant historical spot of Milan. This place dates back to the early 1500s which was built for a convent of Benedictine nuns. San Maurizio has paintings of the best Lombard artist from the 16th century which is complimented with frescoes of biblical scenes.

The Archaeology Museum or the Civico Museo Archeologico was constructed over the ruins of the Roman circus and portions of the Roman walls. Now, the museum has the excavated remains of Roman Milan, the ancient history of Milan, Greek, Etruscan, and Roman antiques. Also, there is a third-century sculpture of Maximilian, a bronze head, and a female statue with folded drapes.

-Location – San Maurizio is situated in Milan in northern Italy.
-Timings (Only if applicable) – San Maurizio remains closed on Monday and opens between 9.30 am and 7.30 pm during other days.

5) Sant’Ambrogio – Found by Milan’s patron saint, St. Ambrose, Sant’Ambrogio is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. You can begin your visit by watching the large portico, built in the ninth century, also, the atrium, which is popular for the intricately carved stone capitals. Inside the majestic Sant’Ambrogio, you’ll come across the pulpit with late Romanesque carving and the 4th-century Silicone sarcophagus underneath it. Moreover, don’t forget to notice the paliotto of the high altar which showcases Carolingian art.  

-Location – It is situated at Piazza Sant’Ambrogio, 15, 20123 Milano MI.
-Price (Only if applicable) – The entry fee for Sant’Ambrogio ranges between €2 to €10.
-Timings (Only if applicable) – Visit Sant’Ambrogio between 7.30 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 8 pm.

6) Pinacoteca di Brera – A heaven for art fanatics, Pinacoteca di Brera is one of Italy’s finest art museums. This place majorly houses the paintings by northern Italian Masters. Also, the 15th-century works are most significant, as it includes Mantegna, whereas, the Venetian masters are showcased by Giovanni Bellini, Paolo Veronese, Titian, and Tintoretto. The most famous picture in the gallery is by Lo Sposalizio representing Raphael’s Marriage of the Virgin.

Apart from the golden artworks from the past, Pinacoteca di Brera is home to the work of Picasso, Braque, and Modigliani too. Moreover, many tourists stop by the captivating garden known as Orto Botanico di Brera. This garden features exotic trees, pools, and flower beds along with a 19th-century greenhouse.

-Location – Pinacoteca di Brera is located at Via Brera 28 of Milan.
-Price (Only if applicable) - The entrance fee for Pinacoteca di Brera ranges between €2 to €12. 
-Timings (Only if applicable) – You can visit this place between 8.30 am and 7.15 pm.

7) Corso Vittorio Emanuele II – If you wish to pamper yourself from a little retail therapy, then you must visit Corso Vittorio Emanuele II. Famed for young fashion and international labels, this place boasts brands like Zara, H&M, Mango, and Bershka. Moreover, you gotta stop by the city’s biggest departmental store, La Rinascente. At this eight-floored store, you can shop for luxury womenswear, perfume, and accessories. Also, many tourists hang out here for sipping on the splendid cappuccinos offered at elegant and cosy cafes amidst the luxurious stores.

-Location – Corso Vittorio Emanuele II is situated near Duomo di Milano in the Borgogna region.
-Timings (Only if applicable) – The place opens around 10 am and closes by 7 pm.

1) Sunset on the Duomo terraces – The dramatic views of Milan are best shared with someone special. Head to the Duomo terraces and cherish the crimson skies over the skyline of Milan. The terrace is settled at 70 m height and is surrounded by over 100 marble spires and statues of the Duomo.

2) Watch a romantic ballet at Teatro Alla Scala – If you and your loved one is a fan of Milan’s intricate culture then you must visit romantic ballet at Teatro Alla Scala. Here, you will come across an auditorium and theatre boxes on 4 levels gilded with maroon drapes. If not the performances, explore the theatre museum.

3) Couple’s spa in Milan – Soak in the luxurious services of elegant spas and wellness centres of Milan with your better half. Milan has the best bets for couples’ treatments with multiple couple pampering sessions. You can head to Hammam Della Rosa, Shiseido Spa Milan, and L’Occitane Express Spa.

4) Feed the swans at Giardino di Villa Reale – Take a quick stroll at the elegantly manicured Giardino di Villa Reale or Gardens of Villa Reale. Also, you can spot many couples at this place to feed the swans. The romantic atmosphere at this blossoming garden tempts the loved-ones to spend some time here.

1) Centro Storico – The Centro Storico houses the top tourists’ attractions of Milan like Duomo di Milano, La Scala Theater, Museo 900, the Quadrilatero, the Palazzo Reale, and the Vittorio Emanuele Gallery. This area is the most expensive place to stay but every iconic attraction is near it.

2) Brera – Brera is the artsy, bohemian district of Milan. Situated in Zone 1, this area is north to Duomo di Milano. Brera consists of Castello Sforzesco, Parco Sempione, Pinacoteca di Brera museum, and much more.

3) Porta Nuova Isola – Yet another high-end place in Milan, Porta Nuova Isola showcases a “new” Milan. Here, you will come across Unicredit tower, Corso Como, and Bosco Verticale. Also, Porta Nuova Isola has some amazing clubs too like Hollywood Milano, Loolapaloosa, Executive Lounge Milano, and Shocking Club.

4) Chinatown – Amidst WWI and WWII, a large Chinese population settled in this area to sell ties and scarves made with silk. Since then, the area is known as a shopping haven. The main street of the neighbourhood is Via Paola Sarpi and is best for shopping. Chinatown is quite affordable to stay and is close to Garibaldi station.

5) Corso Magento – Situated in suburbs, Corso Magento is one of the most beautiful areas of Milan. Here, you’ll come across top churches like Chiesa di Sant'Ambrogio and Santa Maria Delle Grazie. Corso Magento is lined up with beautiful shops and aesthetic cafes. Also, explore Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper at Santa Maria Delle Grazie, the Renaissance church.

1) Risotto Alla Milanese – The most classic Milanese dish, risotto alla Milanese comprises rice, creamy risotto and a distinctive saffron colour.

2) Cotoletta Alla Milanese – This dish resembles a Viennese schnitzel. Cotoletta Alla Milanese has a veal cutlet in a thinner version which is breaded and fried.

3) Ossobuco with Gremolata – Ossobuco has rich broth made from red wine and assorted veggies. The dish is usually served with polenta or risotto, along with finely-chopped parsley, lemon zest, and garlic called “gremolata.”

1) Spend a night at the Scala Theatre – Located at the Piazza Della Scala square, Scala theatre will offer the most unique experience in Milan. The theatre organizes prestigious ballets and opera theatres daily. Dress up lavishly and visit this multi-tiered hall to witness the rich culture of Milan.

2) Gaze the city at Torre Branca – If your interest area comprises gazing at the city lights and the starry night, you gotta spend some time at Torre Branca. This platform stands tall at 100 m height and remains open until midnight. Visitors usually reach Torre Branca during sunset or when it’s dark enough to watch over the illuminated landmarks of Milan.

3) Nottingham Forest Bar – One of the best cocktail bars in Milan, Nottingham Forest Bar serves unique cocktail mix-ups. The bar has a forty-year experience in mixology of different drinks from across the globe. Also, the décor of Nottingham follows the beauty of Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean. Loosen and delve right in the Milan nightlife at the exquisite Nottingham Forest Bar.  

4) Embracing the unique culture of aperitivo in Navigli – Navigli is made up of a series of canals designed by Leonardo da Vinci. The picturesque setup of this area is perfect for aperitivo. Aperitivo is a traditional Italian custom of sharing small plates and drinks. Explore this culture while relaxing at UGO Cocktail Bar and Trattoria Madonnina.

5) Cherish the festivities at Milan’s Christmas market – Want to capture Milan’s magical period, visit this eternal city during Christmas. In December, the city is lined up with several Christmas markets where you can shop for crafts, Christmas gifts, and mouthwatering seasonal dishes with drinks. The most famous market is Mercatino di Natale which resides in the Piazza del Duomo. Explore the Christmas lights with your squad whilst sipping on mulled wine and munching on the traditional Milanese Panettone.

1) Via Montenapoleone – Want to shop for luxurious brands? Head to Milan’s golden quadrilateral, Via Montenapoleone. This key shopping street houses many big designer brands, Gucci, Prada, and Valentino. Also, other brands like Bottega Veneta, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Fendi can be found at Via Montenapoleone. Here, you’ll get pretty deals for Italian leather goods too.

2) Corso Venezia – One of the most elegant venues of Milan, Corso Venezia is home to beautiful palaces, gardens, parks, and menswear brands. Here, you will come across Henry Cotton’s, Brooksfield, Burberry, and Stone Island. Men can shop for practical yet stylish clothing. Moreover, Corso Venezia has Italian fashion heavyweights and international brands too.

3) Corso di Porta Ticinese – Finding an alternative to the designer labels of the Via Montenapoleone? Head to Corso di Porta Ticinese. Residing in Navigli neighbourhood, this fashion street has unique clothing, record, and food stores. Here, you can shop from Levis, Diesel, Carhartt, Vans, and Camper. Also, Corso di Porta Ticinese has been famed for Portobello Road in London.

4) Corso Vittorio Emanuele II – Residing in the heart of the city and near Piazza del Duomo, Corso Vittorio Emanuele II is known for young fashion and international labels. It is lined up with Zara, H&M, Mango, Bershka, and other brands. Moreover, shop for luxury womenswear, perfume, and accessories at the city’s biggest departmental store, La Rinascente. 

5) Corso Buenos Aires – Corso Buenos Aires is famed as Europe’s longest shopping street and is often compared to London’s Oxford Street or Paris’s Avenue des Champs-Elysees. At this 1 km-long street, you will find over 350 international ready-to-wear brands. Also, Corso Buenos Aires features great fashion stores of H&M, Swatch, Desigual, United Colours of Benetton, and Boggi.

1) II Duomo – Situated in Piazza del Duomo, II Duomo is the most iconic architectural site of Milan. This cathedral is made up of pink-hued white marble built from the deep pits of Lake Maggiore. The construction of this Gothic building began in 1386 and was completed in six centuries. Many visitors climb up to the rooftop of the cathedral and gaze at Milan’s architectural wonders. Also, if you want to learn about II Duomo’s history then visit the adjacent museum, Museo del Duomo.

2) Castello Sforzesco – To learn about Milan’s medieval and early modern history, you should head to Castello Sforzesco. Built-in the 15th century, this fortress was constructed by Francesco Sforza, the first Duke of Milan. Castello Sforzesco went under Spanish, Habsburg, and Napoleonic rule. This edifice comprises several museums, galleries, and the Pinacoteca which comprises of Bronzino, Tintoretto, and Titian.

3) Museo del Novecento – If you are a modern Italian art enthusiast, Museo del Novecento is made for you. This place showcases a whopping collection of 20th-century Italian art. Here, you will come across over 400 artworks of modern Italian art history. Displayed in chronological order, the artworks’ journey starts from 1902 and explores Futurism, Novecento, Abstraction, Art Informel, leaders of the 1950s and 1960s, Arte Povera, and ends at Pop Art. Also, an entire floor of Museo del Novecento is devoted to Lucio Fontana.