This is a very popular thing for people to see in Milan.  It is definitely one of Italy’s most famous paintings.  It is located in the Santa Maria della Grazie Church and you will need to book at least two months in advance in order to be sure to see the work.  This is something that you have to decide on before making your journey to Milan.  If you are lucky enough to get a ticket, make sure you are on time otherwise your space will be sold and you will lose your opportunity to see the work.

The Duomo

The most famous landmark in the centre of Milan is the beautiful Duomo cathedral.  It is in a gothic style and actually took an amazing 5 centuries to finish.

If you have the time, you should take the opportunity to climb up the almost 500 steps and take a look at the stunning views from the rooftop.  If you can’t face walking up that many stairs, you are in luck because there is also a lift available to use for an extra charge.

La Scala Opera House

La Scala is a world famous opera house in the heart of Milan.  Named after the wife of a Duke of Milan, the building was constructed and completed in 1778.

It was originally called the New Royal Theatre of La Scala and is now after making it through the wars, the building has now been restored to its original beauty.

Find out what ballet or opera is playing during the season and get to enjoy a performance on one evening of your stay.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

The main shopping area in Milan is called the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.  If you are looking to spend a little or a lot of money, this is the place to go.  You will find all the famous designers under one roof.  This will naturally include Gucci and Prada among others stores.

The Galleria was built between 1865 and 1877 and was named after the first King of the United Italy.  The architect was called Guiseppe Mengoni and he created a beautiful glass domed arena in the shape of an octagon.

Don’t Miss:

It is a tradition to visit the shopping centre to see the tiled figure of a bull on the floor.  In order to provide good luck, you should stick your heel onto the tiled testicles of the bull and spin around.  It is not clear when this tradition was started but it is based on the idea of giving yourself more luck than the poor architect had. Shortly after the completion of the shopping arcade, he fell to his death from the building.

Navigli

Every town has its alternative avant-garde and chic area. In Milan this has to be Navigli. It is an area that is situated along the banks of a canal with little bridges that are slightly reminiscent of Venice.

If you make your way here during the daytime you will find lots of little market stalls selling a variety of goods including jewelry and artwork.  In the afternoon or evening you can pick and choose where you would like to eat and drink from the multitude of restaurants and cafés.

Photo credit: Groume