Here we go: About Milan
Milan is believed to have been settled from 600 BC and the city and its surrounding area have been home to many civilizations over the centuries, including the Gauls, the Celts, and the Romans. Today, Milan is considered the fashion and automotive center of Italy.
The heart of fashion: places to visit in Milan
Duomo di Milano
First, the bad news: You will almost certainly have to queue to enter this building, which is one of Europe’s largest cathedrals. The good news is that the Duomo di Milano is absolutely worth the wait. In addition to the Duomo Museum, the Music Chapel of the Cathedral, and Italy’s largest organ, the complex is home to the Cathedral Church of the Archdiocese of Milan, which is open to worshippers. Guided tours of the complex are available (https://www.duomomilano.it/en/infopage/individual-tours/77/).
Pinacoteca di Brera
Set in the Palazzo Brera complex, the Pinacoteca di Brera has one of the finest collections of Italian artworks, ranging from the 15th to the 20th century. Rather than encompassing a private collection, the museum was established specifically to house important works, most of which came from various churches and convents around Italy. The complex also hosts other cultural institutions, including the Brera Library(Biblioteca Nazionale Braidense), the Astronomical Observatory, the Botanical Garden, the Lombard Institute for Science and Art, and the Academy of Fine Arts.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Built between 1865 and 1877, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is also known as ‘Milan’s living room’ (il Salotto di Milano). The oldest shopping center in Italy, the Galleria is an arcade running between the Duomo and the Teatro alla Scala, covered with an iron and glass roof and featuring a dome that has striking mosaics. Naturally, the shopping is outstanding, with many of the world’s most exclusive brands represented; as well, the Galleria has a number of fine cafes and restaurants. This architectural beauty in the heart of Milan is considered a must-see for every visitor – even if you’re not shopping, it is a pleasure to simply stroll.
Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie
Included on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1980, the Basilica and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie are not only gorgeous examples of Renaissance-era architecture, but the complex also houses Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, ‘The Last Supper’ – the artist painted the work on the north wall of the Convent’s refectory. We recommend that you purchase your ticket to this church online and in advance.
Brera District
The area surrounding the Palazzo Brera complex is known as the Brera district. About a ten-minute walk from the Duomo, this convivial and bohemian neighborhood is known for its art galleries, and design and antique shops as well as its dining and nightlife.
La Scala Theatre (Teatro alla Scala)
Opened in August 1778, the Teatro alla Scala has become one of the world’s most renowned theaters and opera houses. Presenting all manner of events, including ballets, concerts, recitals and operas, La Scala also features a museum, the Museo Teatrale, which has both temporary and permanent exhibits related to the theater and its performers.
Shopping in Milan
As we noted, Milan is synonymous with fashion and shopping. Since our time in the city is limited, here’s a short list of some of the city’s stellar shopping destinations.
- Via Monte Napoleone: This upscale shopping street features the world’s most exclusive brands. Here you can find clothing and footwear from both Italian and international designers.
- Via Della Spiga: Known for its elegant, Baroque-style buildings and stylish boutiques, Via Della Spiga forms the northeast street of Milan’s ‘fashion quadrilateral’ and features shops from both popular and luxury brands.
- 10 Corso Como: In the Brera District, this chic complex has galleries, boutiques and a range of shops, as well as restaurants and cafes.
- Corso Vittorio Emanuele II: One of the oldest streets and most prominent streets in the city, this dynamic pedestrian area features a number of popular brands, along with cafes and restaurants.
Dining in Milan
Although Milan is known for fashion, it is as much a dining destination as any Italian city. Some of the delicacies you can sample include the following.
- Risotto (a creamy rice dish cooked in a broth derived from meat, vegetables or seafood)
- Gorgonzola cheese
- Chops Milanese (breaded pork or veal chops)
- Panettone (a fluffy cake dotted with raisins, orange and lemon peels.)
- Minestrone soup (a hearty vegetable soup with pasta or rice)
- Polenta (cornmeal pudding)
- Piadina (a thin Italian flatbread.)
- Tiramisu
- Milanese-style pizza
Practical tips for Milan
Here’s a link to Milan plane tickets along with some practical information about visiting the city.
Staying in Milan
Because Milan is one of the world’s most visited cities, it offers a wide range of accommodation options. Since most of the places to visit in Milan are clustered around the Duomo di Milano, we suggest choosing accommodation near the cathedral. To easily and quickly book accommodations and flights on a single platform, check out Turkish Airlines Holidays holiday packages!
Transportation in Milan
Milan has a well-developed transportation system encompassing buses, trams, metros and commuter trains. The Milan Pass City Card offers access to public transportation as well as discounts on museum admissions.
Transportation from Milan’s airports to the city center
There are three airports in Milan, with Malpensa Airport considered the city’s primary airport. The Linate and Bergamo airports are also options, but most flights operate from the Malpensa and Bergamo airports.
Malpensa Airport is about 50 kilometers from the city center. Shuttle buses operate between the airport and the city center, as does a train. Taxi and private transfer options are also available.
Bergamo Airport is approximately 45 kilometers from the city center. Shuttles and city buses operate to the city center as do trains and taxis.
We wish you safe travels!
