Most travellers have a special place in their hearts for Europe. From Bollywood films with romantic scenes in European cities to social media filled with beautiful photos of ancient streets and cafes, Europe is a dream destination for many Indians. While Paris, Switzerland, and Rome often steal the spotlight, there is another European gem you cannot miss – Milan, Italy.
Milan is not just any other European spot – it is a city you will never forget. Milan is where ancient churches stand next to skyscrapers, the aroma of fresh pasta blends with high-fashion shopping, and art and culture come together in perfect harmony. Known worldwide as a hub of fashion and design, Milan also offers an exquisite mix of history, art, and culture. Think of Milan as that perfect mix of old and new – like how Delhi combines the heritage of Chandni Chowk with modern shopping malls.
Let me tell you everything you need to know about Milan – from must-visit places to hidden spots that even some locals do not know about.
Just like how we Indians take pride in our ancient temples and monuments – Milan has its own treasure trove of historical wonders. The history of Milan goes back thousands of years, and you will find pieces of this rich past everywhere you look. Here are the places that will amaze you.
This iconic gothic masterpiece is the soul and the heart of Milan. You cannot miss this renowned cathedral. The Milan Cathedral is kind of similar in grandeur to our Taj Mahal.
Built over 600 years ago, it stands as a proud symbol of the incredible architecture of Milan. The Milan Cathedral, also known as Duomo di Milano, is 515 feet long and 302 feet wide. It can hold up to 40,000 people and is one of the largest catholic churches in the world. Its façade, adorned with intricate spires and statues, captures the imagination of every visitor. The real wonder is at the top – the rooftop terraces of cathedrals. Go to the top for great views of the city – on sunny days, you can see the mountains too. Inside, it is quiet and calm – a nice break from the busy streets. Book your Duomo tickets online to skip the long lines.
Remember those pictures of Jesus and his disciples that we have seen in books? The original painting is right here in Milan! The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci is one of the most iconic paintings in the world. He painted this masterpiece on a dining room wall, and it has survived wars, bombs, and time itself. Only a few people can enter at a time, and visits are kept short to protect this fragile artwork. It is like getting a darshan of something truly spiritual – each 15-minute session allows only 25 people, making it feel very special and personal. Booking months in advance is vital to secure your spot. A guided tour makes the visit more interesting by sharing details about the unique methods of the painter and how the painting has been restored over the years.
This massive castle will remind you of our Indian forts but with an Italian twist.
A short walk from the Duomo takes you to the grand Sforza Castle, a symbol of the rich history of Milan. The castle, once home to the powerful Sforza family, is now a place for art and history lovers. It has many museums, including collections of Renaissance art, musical instruments, and ancient artefacts. Here, you will find the Rondanini Pietà – the last piece Michelangelo worked on before he died. Though not finished, it still moves visitors deeply. The castle is surrounded by Parco Sempione, a large park ideal for walks, picnics, or just relaxing in a peaceful setting.
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If you think Sarojini Market in Delhi or the Fashion Street in Mumbai is shopping heaven, wait till you see the fashion scene in Milan! Milan is famous for its top fashion shows, like Milan Fashion Week, and has some of the best fashion schools, making it a great place to update your wardrobe. From budget-friendly finds to luxury brands, Milan has something for every wallet size.
This is where all the big fashion brands have their shops. The locals call it Via Montenapo, a street where anyone can window shop, but only the wealthy can actually buy. While many designers dream of having a store here, only the best fashion brands get a spot on this famous shopping street. Even if you do not plan to shop, watching stylish locals and admiring the beautiful window displays is enjoyable on its own. It is like walking through a fashion magazine come to life!
Milan is known for its fashion, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II perfectly represents this style. Picture the most beautiful shopping mall you have ever seen, then multiply its grandeur by ten! One of the oldest shopping malls in the world, this 19th-century marvel is more than a retail hub – it is a work of art. This historic shopping arcade is like a palace made for shopping. The glass roof and mosaic floors are so beautiful that you will spend more time looking up than at the shops! Even if Gucci and Prada are out of your budget, window shopping here is an experience in itself.
Now, Corso Buenos Aires is the Milan version of Lajpat Nagar Market in Delhi, but comparatively, it is more organized. A shopper’s paradise with options for every budget, it is like a huge US shopping boulevard and one of the longest retail streets in Europe. The shops on these streets are located in beautiful 19th and 20th-century buildings with stunning art nouveau designs. You will find familiar brands like Zara and H&M, plus many Italian fashion stores. Shopping here costs less than in the fancy fashion areas. The best part? Sales happen twice a year, and the discounts are amazing!
Beyond its fashion fame, Milan is now getting attention for its delicious Italian food. It is much more than just pasta and pizza! Milan’s food scene will remind you of our Indian love for good food and family dining. Signature dishes include Risotto alla Milanese, a creamy saffron-infused risotto, and Cotoletta alla Milanese, a breaded veal cutlet. Try the local wines with your food – they make your meal even better.
Here is where you can savour the best meals.
For good local food, try the restaurants with outdoor seating on Via Dente Street, near the castle. You can also find great places around the main square. Just like we love our street chaat, Milanese have their own street food culture. Try the Panzerotti or Gelato. The area around Duomo has many quick-eat spots perfect for budget travellers. Do not miss the Brera district. A place where food meets art, offering everything from tasty focaccia to sweet cannoli—a true treat for your senses.
The family-run restaurants in Milan are like our local dhabas but Italian style! Try the famous Risotto alla Milanese, which may remind you of our Pulao. Most restaurants offer fixed lunch menus perfect for trying multiple dishes without spending too much.
The Mercato Centrale is like Crawford Market in Mumbai but with Italian specialities. This food market has everything – Italian classics, international dishes, and treats from around the world. Get fresh bread and pastries in the morning, try amazing seafood for lunch, and enjoy dishes from top chefs for dinner. Do not forget to stop by the wine shop or cocktail bar. Whether it is lunch, breakfast, or dinner, you will find something tasty here.
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Just the way Mumbai has so much to offer other than the Gateway of India – Milan has many lesser-known spots that are equally magical.
Beyond the glossy fashion magazines and tourist brochures lies a Milan that most visitors never see. Hidden in plain sight are ancient courtyards, secret gardens, underground chambers, and local hangouts that tell the real story of this fascinating city. In these places, Milan’s past comes alive. These hidden gems turn your regular vacation into an adventure you will never forget.
Many of Milan’s buildings hide beautiful courtyards behind their main doors. While some are private, many historic buildings allow visitors to peek into these secret spaces during daytime hours. For example, the secret courtyard of Corso Magenta. Step into the inner courtyard (if you are lucky since it is not always open to the public) and look up. The five-story design of pillars, capitals, and windows creates a perfect octagon view of the sky—ideal for your Instagram feeds!
Did you know there is a whole network of underground chambers beneath Milan? After entering the Church of San Bernardino Alle Ossa, steps lead you down to a special underground room. In this dimly lit room, the walls, door frames, and columns are covered with skulls, bones, and other body parts like vertebrae and femurs.
One hidden gem in Milan is the Casa degli Atellani with Leonardo’s Vineyard. Tucked away behind a Renaissance building on Corso Magenta, this secret spot offers a peaceful garden and a glimpse of the vineyard once gifted to Leonardo da Vinci. It is a quiet and unique place to visit, offering a taste of the hidden history of Milan.
The secret gardens in Milan are peaceful escapes hidden amidst the city’s hustle. Places like the Botanical Garden of Brera and Guastalla Gardens offer lush greenery, colourful flowers, and serene spots for relaxing. These hidden gems provide a refreshing break, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking quiet moments in the heart of Milan.
Milan is in the heart of Northern Italy, making it a great starting point to explore beautiful landscapes and historic towns nearby. The strategic location of the city means you can have breakfast in Milan, lunch in the Swiss Alps, and be back for dinner by the canals. Within a radius of just a few hours, you will find crystalline lakes, ancient hill towns, world-class wineries, and even Alpine ski resorts. Milan is surrounded by beautiful places, perfect for day trips. You can relax on Lake Como, explore historic sites, or enjoy wine in old vineyards.
Just one and a half hours from Milan, you are in Bergamo. This medieval city on a hill feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Walk slowly through the old part of town, with its small streets and old buildings. Enjoy the sights and discover hidden corners. The local food specialities are different from that in Milan, so it is great for food enthusiasts.
Take a one-hour train ride to see where lots of Indian movies are filmed. The lake views are spectacular, and you might even spot a celebrity’s villa. Take Ferry rides between towns, explore lakeside villas, and enjoy local delicacies. The boat rides here are much more affordable than Venice’s gondolas. Visit during summer or spring for the best weather and views.
Yes, you can actually visit Switzerland for a day from Milan! Hop on the Bernina Express, a scenic train journey that takes you through snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and charming Alpine villages. The route, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers stunning views at every turn. Stop at picturesque towns like St. Moritz, known for its luxury and beauty, or explore glaciers and serene lakes. It is a perfect getaway for photographers, nature lovers, or anyone seeking a peaceful yet thrilling experience.
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Milan is more than just the fashion capital of Italy – it is a city that perfectly blends history, culture, and modern life. If you are visiting Europe for the first time or want to see more than just famous spots, Milan has plenty to offer. For the best Milan experience, set aside 3-4 days in your Italy tour packages. You will remember your time in Milan long after your trip is over.
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I graduated in commerce from Bombay University and run a family-owned business where we believe in transparency, trust, knowledge distribution and provide quality tours to our customers. According to me “Customers are our brand ambassadors and employees are our biggest Strength”. I also believe that “Travel brings knowledge, Knowledge brings opportunity and Opportunity brings prosperity”. With God’s grace was awarded the “Best Female Entrepreneur of India” by Tourism awards Gujarat. And currently, I am actively involved in key decisions and itinerary staff management in the travel industry.