12 must-visit tourist stops in milan: history, haute couture & hidden gems

It is thus quite clear why Milan is one of the most popular destinations in Italy. Being one of the major world fashion and design centers, Milan never ceases to give the opportunities to shop at the best stores. But it is also teeming with history, architecture, vibrant districts, and a great palate for food. Although the Duomo di Milano and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II are usual starting points for most organized tours, this thriving metropolitan city is much more than that.

The city has spectacular art starting with the famous painting of “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci, the Santa Maria delle Grazie church, and the beautiful Brera district with its historical streets. Apart from the designer brands and Renaissance landmarks, some of the lively neighborhoods like Navigli and Isola have become among the trendiest places for bars and restaurants. Read up to discover 12 must-visit places to fully capture the heart of this charming and dynamic city – the landmarks, the fashion, the best-kept secrets.

Stop 1: The largest Catholic cathedral in Italy, the gothic-style cathedral of Milan, known as the Duomo di Milano.
Last but not least, while visiting Milan for the first time, one should take a look at the magnificent Gothic structure – Duomo di Milano. Being the third largest church in Europe, the bright white cathedral is a major landmark that can easily be spotted in the city due to the sculpted spires and statues that run across the roof of the building. Do not queue and wait in line for a long time by ordering a place to get to the roof terraces – from the top, you can see the whole of Milan on a sunny day. It is important not to leave without visiting the interior of the cathedral where one is accorded the chance to appreciate five numbers…

Stop 2: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II Dedicated to the great Italian unification and King Vittorio Emanuele II this is the city’s first shopping mall and one of the oldest in the world.
The splendid Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is an example of neoclassical architecture built in the second half of the 19th century, located right next to the Duomo and currently functioning as one of the oldest shopping malls in the world. Located at Luttrell’s Stand, the four-story glass arcade enchants the visitors with its detailed architecture and skylight dome. Visit the elegant shops, and leisure in one of the cafes or restaurants beneath the galleries, y, when visiting turn your heel on the gonfalon representing the emblem of the city of Turin which is placed on the mosaic tile known as the ‘bull of luck’. Consequently, according to Legend, prosperity is assured if one takes that route.

Stop 3: Santa Maria delle Grazie, which is a beautiful church and home of the famous mural painting called ‘The Last Supper.’
This is because it is an all-time favorite to see the renowned mural by Leonardo da Vinci known as “The Last Supper” found in the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie church. It is currently one of the top attractions in Milan, so be ready to book tickets for one of the brief visiting times in advance. Once inside you will be confronted by the masterpiece of the great Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper which depicts a power scene whereby Jesus shares his last meal with his disciples before his crucifixion.

Stop 4: Sforza Castle
A trip back in history can be had whilst merely strolling around this 15th century castle which now functions as several distinct museums. Walking over the moat reach the Sforza Castle; here, visitors can see the parts of the remains of walls, towers, and foundations that belong to medieval times. Many wonderful things to see here are the sculpture of “Pietà Rondanini” by Michelangelo, chambers with artworks by Leonardo da Vinci and Donato Bramante, Egyptian mummies, musical instruments, furniture, etc.

Stop 5: Brera District
Milan, with its artsy quarter, beckons strolling down the curving alleys featuring independent shops, trendy cafes and bars, old-world Italian restaurants, cafes to rival New York’s Starbucks, and art galleries. The prestigious Brera Academy of Fine Arts has been located in this area for quite a long time, 1776 to be exact. Pinacoteca di Brera is an art gallery you should not miss, Orto Botanico di Brera is a wonderful botanical garden where one can find a quiet green oasis, but also wander in the old quarter which contains the spirit of retro-vintage.

Stop 6: FOURTH STOP: SANTA BABILA SQUARE & THE MONTENAPOLEONE DISTRICT
Models and people interested in fashion rush to the streets near Santa Babila Square, located in Milan’s Montenapoleone area, which is famous for luxurious shopping. Nowadays, Via Montenapoleone and the neighboring streets are the epitome of Milan’s fashion industry – called “Quadrilatero della Moda” or the golden fashion quarter – and most, if not all, luxurious brands from Italy and worldwide, including Prada, Versace, and Dolce & Gabbana, have their stores there. If your purse strings are tight and you cannot afford to get into the boutiques, simply shopping around gives an amazing feel with the latest fashion trends on the ramps.

Stop 7: La Scala Opera House & Galleria De Cristofori It is one of the most famous opera houses in the world and was built in the neoclassical style in the late 18th century.
If possible, attend a show at the country’s Opera, La Scala which is regarded as the most prestigious opera house in Italy situated in Milan. La Scala, the theatre renowned for opera, was inaugurated in 1778 to stage performances for the city’s high society. Go to the onsite museum in the daytime to have a peep at the actualization of a more refined interior design and photographic masterpieces of famous composers and singers. Next, for the true taste of people-watching, Galleria De Cristofori offers a dose of darling cafes and exclusive shopping sprees.

Stop 8: Quadrilatero D’Oro
To shop more areas they frequent the exclusive Milan fashion houses get a few blocks ahead and visit Quadrilatero d’Oro. The series of streets within the “golden rectangle” has such stores located in palazzos and boutiques which are extremely opulent and decorated richly. Foodies will feel like they have died and gone to heaven but design lovers will be thrilled to discover even Iconic Italian furniture & Homewares are also available here. For those shoppers who are not necessarily in the market for items they wish to purchase, it will be a great place for window shopping and general people-watching.

Stop 9: The ninth stop is at Darsena Harbour & Navigli District.
Fly into Milan and visit the city’s hippest nightlife district by the Navigli canals – once used for hauling goods into Darsena docks. The nightlife in this place is alive and boasts wine bars, microbreweries, and informal Italian dining venues packed with youngsters after sundown. Daytime provides a quicker and more classic Canal side walks by small antique shops, traditional artisan studios, and friendly neighborhood pizzerias in what is quickly turning into one of Milan’s trendiest areas. Some of the streets to photograph include; Don’t miss the shot-taking opportunity at Vicolo dei Lavandai, the washerwomen’s alley.

Stop 10: Isola District
Cross over the train tracks and a little further north to check out a recently revitalized Milanese neighborhood called Isola. This used to be an industrial district, but the living place is teeming with some of the finest retail shops, small businesses, bakeries, street food vendors, and wine shops. The streets are designed in such a way that a pedestrian can stroll as he or she shops and takes snacks. As for nightlife fans, the best places are in the neighborhood of Garibaldi Corso Como station.

Stop 11: Santa Maria Presso San Satiro – changing terkover for terza.
Stare at brilliant examples of Renaissance architecture hidden deep in a small street in the very heart of Milan’s most historic quarter. One can be confused with the compact view of the interior and play with perspective by Bramante, which is impossible to see in Santa Maria Presso San Satiro. Do not fail to note the ‘false’ sacristy that has frescoes and the altarpiece painting of ‘Saints Jerome, Ambrose, Augustine’ that is viewed from the little mausoleum.

Stop 12- Piazza del Duomo & Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II at Night
Finish your two-day tour of Milan; go back to the Piazza del Duomo to see and photograph the glowing architecture of the cathedral and gallery arcade. Get to sip on your aperitivo or enjoy dinner right on one of the terraces with a bird’s eye view of the piazza. Readily photogenic moments can be captured at nearly every turn: from the golden statue of Madonnina standing atop the Duomo to the social-glamourous youths that fill the city’s symbol of Piazza del Duomo at night.

Conclusion
Armed with this checklist, first-time tourists to Milan have all the tools necessary to explore Milan beyond these traditional, tried-and-true attractions. Cultural exploration, food trip, glamourous shopping, sightseeing, meeting the locals, and having a great time in the evening. Milan is also so diverse for the business person who wants to seize the city at a fast pace while looking stylish. These are suggested stops, let me add, and after visiting them, you immediately start exploring the (delightful) neighborhoods, to find more of your favorites in this beautiful Italian city. What other ‘must do’s’ for the best of Milan? Discuss your favorite hot spots and unique travel experiences with other fellow travelers from around the globe!

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