The main attractions of Milan on the map. Where to go from Milan
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Aristocratic and fabulously beautiful Milan, which throughout its history has strived to become the capital of Italy, has, in a certain sense, achieved its cherished dream. This is an amazing city with its magnificent Catholic churches, rich art galleries and the main opera house in the world. All these attractions of Milan have made it one of the main cultural capitals of Europe. In addition, Milan has the status of a recognized world capital of high fashion. Prestigious fashion shows are held here and new designer collections are presented, and expensive luxury boutiques compete with the most popular cultural attractions in terms of attendance.
1. Milan Cathedral
- one of the most visited temples in Europe and the most grandiose building in Milan. It, like an elegant marble rock, rises above the main square of the city. This unsurpassed Gothic landmark in Milan was built over five centuries - from the 14th to the 19th centuries. The Milan Cathedral has no analogues in world architecture - it is built of rare white marble in the original architectural style of Flamboyant Gothic. In terms of its capacity, the cathedral ranks fifth in the world; it can accommodate up to forty thousand people at a time. The appearance of the Duomo fascinates with its harmonious combination of grandeur and elegance. Its marble walls are decorated with thousands of sculptures illustrating scenes from the Bible. The graceful tall spiers of the temple reach into the sky, and the central spire is crowned by a gilded statue of the Virgin Mary. The interior of the cathedral amazes with the incredible height of the ceilings, the power of the columns and the mystery of medieval stained glass windows. This majestic monument is a must see in Milan!
The most famous castle in Milan, built in the 15th century, invariably arouses keen interest among Russian tourists. The appearance of the towers and the shape of the battlements of the walls bear a striking resemblance to the appearance of the Moscow Kremlin. This is explained by the fact that the authors of the Kremlin were Milanese masters, who took the Sforza Castle as a model. Initially, the castle served as the residence of the dukes of the Sforza dynasty. Today it is one of the main Milan attractions, where an extensive collection of valuable exhibits is collected: works by Leonardo da Vinci, household items of noble nobles, busts of famous Italians, rare paintings and sculptures, a collection of musical instruments.
The Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, built in the 15th century, is not only a beautiful architectural landmark of Milan, but also a place that houses within its walls a real treasure - the famous fresco by Leonardo da Vinci “The Last Supper”, depicting the last supper of Jesus Christ and his twelve disciples. The great master tried to make the picture as realistic and impressive as possible; for this he depicted its characters in full height. The masterpiece is truly amazing in its size - the length of the fresco is 8.8 meters and the height is 4.6 meters. The “Last Supper” was located in the refectory of the monastery adjacent to the temple, so the monks gathered at the table had the feeling that Christ and the apostles were dining with them.
4. La Scala
It will be very interesting to visit La Scala in Milan, which has been the most famous opera house in the world for more than two centuries. A visit to the legendary temple of music is a secret dream for lovers of opera. The external appearance of the architectural landmark is distinguished by severity and restraint, but its interior design is a true embodiment of grandeur and luxury. The chairs in the auditorium are upholstered in red velvet, the walls are richly decorated with gilded decorative elements, the costumes of the artists are made of the most expensive materials, and the delightful decorations are worthy of being called works of art. The majority of the audience consists of famous politicians, businessmen and public figures, dressed in elegant suits - this emphasizes the solemn atmosphere reigning in the concert hall. At various times, the theater performed works by Giuseppe Verdi, Giacomo Puccini, Richard Wagner, Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Sergei Prokofiev and other brilliant composers. Among the world-famous performers who performed on the stage of La Scala are Enrico Caruso, Luciano Pavarotti, Placido Domingo, Fyodor Chaliapin.
5. Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology
One of the most interesting attractions in the city of Milan is the National Museum, named after Leonardo da Vinci. It has an interesting collection of scientific research and technical inventions. One of the departments of the museum presents projects and sketches of Leonardo da Vinci himself, as well as working models created on the basis of his drawings.
Many of the great Leonardo’s brilliant ideas were never translated into reality during his lifetime due to lack of funds and limited technical capabilities of the Middle Ages. Among his inventions, which were several centuries ahead of their time, were a leather scuba tank with an underwater bell for breathing, a pyramid-shaped parachute, the prototype of a modern paraglider, an armored eight-seater tank in the shape of a cone, a self-propelled cart, a flying propeller, and even a robot knight who could walk. sit, move your arms and neck.
Exhibits in other departments of the museum are no less interesting. For example, the transportation department has an extensive collection of elements from ships, trains and airplanes. Both adults and little curious visitors to the museum will be interested in looking into one of its interactive laboratories, where everyone can make unbreakable soap bubbles, ink and even beer with their own hands. This is a must-see place for tourists in Milan!
6. Gallery Vittorio Emanuele II
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the oldest shopping galleries in the world and the most luxurious arcade in Italy. The gallery was built in the second half of the 19th century and named after King Vittorio Emanuele II, who reigned at that time. The "living room of Milan", as locals call it, is a full-fledged street covered with a glass roof with a giant dome in the center. The inside of this Milanese landmark is lavishly decorated with mosaics, frescoes and sculptures. Here, under one roof, you can find the most expensive boutiques of iconic Italian brands - Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Dolce & Gabbana. In addition, the gallery building houses first-class restaurants, rooms for exhibitions and music shows, and the seven-star Seven Stars Galleria hotel with a gorgeous view and exorbitant cost of living.
7. Gallery of Contemporary Art in Milan
Among the attractions of Milan, the Gallery of Modern Art, which includes more than 2,700 paintings and sculptures from the 18th to 20th centuries, especially stands out. The collection is based on works by Italian and French artists - Giovanni Fattori, Umberto Boccioni, Paul Gauguin, Auguste Renoir, Paul Cezanne and other famous masters. The gallery's exposition is located in a luxurious mansion, previously donated to Emperor Napoleon, which is why the residents of Milan call this building “Villa Bonaparte.” The mansion is surrounded by a picturesque green garden with fragments of ancient buildings, which gives this place even more charm. During a tour of Milan, you should definitely visit here.
8. Brera Gallery
The Brera Gallery is one of the largest galleries in Milan, with a rich collection of masterpieces of European fine art. The gallery was founded at the beginning of the 19th century on the initiative of Napoleon, who ordered the removal of valuable paintings from Italian monasteries and their collection in one building. It is no coincidence that many exhibits in the collection belong to the brushes of Italian masters and are united by religious themes. Among them are paintings by Titian, Raphael, Caravaggio and other famous painters. By visiting this attraction, you can not only admire the works of art, but also observe the process of their restoration in a real workshop.
After a tour of the cultural attractions of Milan, you can treat yourself to some long-awaited shopping. The ideal place for a shopping trip in Milan is the legendary “Golden Quadrilateral”, formed by the four famous central streets of the city. Numerous visitors to this elite quarter are attracted by the signs of expensive boutiques of Armani, Versace, Valentino, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana and other world-famous Italian brands. In addition to luxury shops offering exclusive designer clothes, shoes and accessories, on the streets of the Golden Quadrilateral you can find jewelry stores, antique shops and incredibly expensive restaurants, where Milan's fashion elite traditionally gather.
10. Ingrosso area
Another great place for shopping in Milan is the Ingrosso district, which annually attracts hundreds of thousands of fans of high fashion and original design ideas. There are many discount and wholesale stores here where you can buy clothes from emerging and little-known designers at very attractive prices. By the way, the word “ingrosso” translated from Italian means “wholesale”. Unlike the elite boutiques of the Golden Quadrangle, local shops do not have such big names, but their prices are incomparably lower. In addition, periodic sales increase the chance of purchasing a truly exclusive item for a ridiculous price, the designer of which, perhaps, will become world famous in a couple of years.
A great place to see the sights of Milan is the Poldi Pezzoli Museum, which is famous for one of the largest and most interesting private collections in Europe. The museum displays a rich collection of art and antiques that belonged to the Milanese aristocrat Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli. His most passionate hobby was collecting valuable antique exhibits, which he brought from his travels and placed in his luxurious mansion. Over the course of several decades, he managed to assemble a truly unique collection of European paintings, Italian sculpture, ancient weapons and armor, antique furniture, Venetian glass and handmade oriental carpets.
12. Brera Street
Via Brera is the heart of the homonymous quarter, one of the most creative areas of Milan. Since the Academy of Arts and the Brera Gallery opened here, painters, jewelers, fashion designers, historians and writers began to move to this quarter. Over time, the street has become home to many souvenir shops with handicrafts, art galleries, shops with small items for decoration and cozy cafes where the local public traditionally gathers for communication and lively discussions. Aspiring musicians and young artists who are constantly present on Brera Street give this creative quarter a special flavor and give all its visitors a festive mood.
13. Basilica of St. Ambrose
The Basilica of St. Ambrose is one of the most ancient landmarks in Milan. The basilica was originally built as a small chapel by the bishop of the city. Construction lasted about seven years, and ended at the end of the three hundredth year of our era. The building was dedicated to two Christian martyrs Gervasius and Protasius. And since the cemetery of Christian martyrs was located near the basilica, the church received a second name - Basilica of Martyrs.
The building received its special Romanesque style at the end of the nineteenth century, when the architects of that time worked hard on it. The basilica is decorated with a large number of mosaics and precious stones depicting faces and scenes from the lives of saints. But this is not the main value of the temple. It contains the relics of the above-mentioned saints, which are kept in a silver sarcophagus. If you come to the basilica during the service, you will be lucky enough to see them through the glass wall. In normal times, the relics are hidden from view by a steel curtain.
The attraction is open to everyone every day from half past eight to half past seven. It is important to note that entrance to the basilica is free, which allows everyone to touch the shrine.
The Poldi Pezzoli Museum dates back to the mid-nineteenth century. It was originally intended for the private collection of Gianoma Poldi Pezzoli. Throughout the world, the museum is famous for its huge collection, which includes not only works by famous painters, but also a collection of sculptures, weapons, Persian carpets, ceramics from the ancient period and furniture from the Renaissance. This is not the entire list of unique elements of the museum’s collection. A special place is given to the works of Italian painters such as Canaletto, Guardi and Giovanni Tiepolo.
You can visit the museum from ten in the morning to six in the evening. Please note that ticket offices close a little earlier. The ticket costs nine euros.
15. San Siro Stadium
The San Siro Stadium, also known as Giuseppe Meazza, is one of the main symbols of Milan. It can accommodate around 80,000 fans, who are divided into two "camps" such as Inter and Milan. On match days, the stadium is filled with cheering fans, which is why this place is nicknamed “the voice of the city.”
Despite the eternal confrontation between fans of two football teams, the museum on the territory of San Siro unites all football fans. Here you can find more than 3,000 interesting football artifacts that will thrill fans of this sport. However, don’t think that you can only attend football matches at San Siro. In the summer, the stadium hosts large-scale concerts of popular musical groups.
San Siro is a Milan landmark that encapsulates the city's spirit of cheering fans and blissful music lovers. The atmosphere of this wonderful place determines its popularity among tourists and residents of Milan.
16. Branca Tower
This attraction is otherwise called the “Milan Eiffel Tower”. The structure was built in 1933. The height of the tower reaches 109 meters, and it was developed by such personalities as Cesare Chiodi, Gio Ponti and Ettore Ferrari over the course of three months.
The Branca Tower is a favorite place for tourists in Milan, as it takes just one and a half minutes by high-speed elevator to reach the magnificent observation deck. Despite the fact that the upper part of the structure was temporarily closed due to weakening of the fastenings, after some time it was equipped with additional cables that secure the platform regardless of the intensity of wind gusts. Despite the increased reliability of the tower, tourists are not allowed to the top of the structure in severe bad weather.
17. Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore
This temple was built in the IV-V centuries. The Colonnade of San Lorenzo testifies to the antiquity of the temple: many centuries ago it was part of the ancient city of Mediolanum, on the site of which modern Milan stands. At the entrance of the church there is a magnificent fresco of the Last Supper, and the dome is painted with images of the Church Fathers. The relics of Saints Lawrence and Hippolytus rest in the Altar, dating from the 17th century.
Opposite the facade of the architectural landmark of Milan is a statue of Emperor Constantine. There is an opinion that it was at this place that the emperor proclaimed the free practice of Christianity. On the opposite side of the basilica there is a statue of St. Lazarus, where in the Middle Ages bonfires were lit, in the flames of which young witches found their deaths.
The observation deck gives an unrivaled view of the Arch of Peace, Sforzesco Castle, Pirelli Tower, Duomo, as well as the Alpine mountains and Lombardy plains. The square is covered with glass, but despite this, the wonderful view of Milan cannot leave indifferent even a traveler who has seen all the wonders of the world.
18. Monumental Cemetery of Milan
This attraction is located in the central part of Milan. The cemetery contains magnificent monuments and tombstones. A sad but amazingly beautiful place filled with sculptures created by the best sculptors, it attracts many visitors with its incredible atmosphere.
The cemetery was built in 1864, and since then it has been enriched with real masterpieces. It contains the remains of such popular people as Alessandro Manzoni, Carlo Cattaneo, Luca Beltrami and others. The most popular monument of the cemetery is the Last Supper, erected on the grave of David Campari and his family. We must not forget about the mausoleum of Antonio Bernocchi, created in the shape of a spiral, filled with many rising sculptures. A sad marble angel sits on the site of Kavi Bussi's tomb, while Ferdinando Bocconi's mausoleum consists of elaborate sculptures surrounding a crucifix. A true connoisseur of art will find the unsurpassed beauty of the Milan cemetery and the sad marble monuments, immersed in grief and sadness for centuries.
19. Alfa Romeo Museum
This landmark of Milan is a repository of magnificent rare technology, which is located on an area of 4800 m². Previously, the Alfa Romeo plant was located on this site, but today it serves exclusively as a museum. The first floor of the building is filled with cars manufactured from 1914 to 2000. The second floor is rich in cars such as Castagna, Zagato and Bertone, and you can enjoy the view of the 6C and Giulia models.
On the top floors of the building there are cars that participated in racing, such as the Tipo 33 and TT12.
20. Armani/Silos Museum
In 2015, the popular brand Armani celebrated its fortieth anniversary, in honor of which this museum was opened. Many years ago, the site was a barn, but today tourists can visit the elegant structure, filled with style and haute couture, as well as the rich history of the Armani brand.
The fourth floor of the building is filled with 600 pieces of clothing and two hundred accessories from the eponymous collection, dating back to the 80s. In addition to evening wear, formal men's suits and exquisite women's apparel, high fashion fans will be able to see sketches by Giorgio Armani, as well as enjoy a luxurious cafe and visit a souvenir shop.
21. Villa Reale
Villa Reale was built back in 1790-1796 by the architect Leopoldo Pollack. Opposite the magnificent structure is the Indro Montanelli Park. Since 1920, the structure acquired a new “title” as a gallery of modern art, and a couple of years later a special pavilion was built next to it, housing modern masterpieces. Behind the building, tourists can enjoy a magnificent garden with a lake, created by Leopold Pollack.
In the gallery, tourists can appreciate works of art by Italian and European artists of the 18-20s. There are paintings by Edouard Monet, Vincent Van Gogh, Paul Gauguin, Pablo Picasso, Amedeo Modigliani and many other giants of fine art. Beginning artists and simply art lovers will be able to touch the most important masterpieces of our time and stroll through the exquisite spaces of Villa Reale.
These were the sights of Milan that you need to see first. That's all, thanks for your attention!
Milan predisposes you to travel around the surrounding area. Firstly, it is believed that the city itself is of little interest and there is almost nothing to see here. And although this is not entirely true, it is worth recognizing that Milan is essentially a modern city rather than an eternal one, it was built on banal land, and not “on water” (although, at one time, the Milanese tried to correct this), and the Renaissance didn't start here. Secondly, Milan has a well-developed transport infrastructure. It's easy to get to and has quick connections to many other Italian cities. In this case, we are talking about both the immediate surroundings (primarily Lombardy) and distant places: thanks to high-speed trains, you can even “fly” to Rome in just 3 hours, not to mention Venice, Verona or Florence. In short, the choice is wide. Perhaps even too much. When compiling travel routes from Milan, you can easily outline a couple of dozen destinations - your eyes run wild.
First you need to decide on the goals of the trip. If you are traveling to Italy for the first time and want to get to know the country in general - to see different regions and cities that are different from each other - then when choosing where to go from Milan, it makes sense to focus on, let’s say, bestsellers. These are the above-mentioned Venice, Verona and Florence. The list can be supplemented by Turin, Genoa, Parma, Bologna and Pisa. All these cities are within reach of a day trip from Milan (and some people dare to take a day trip to Rome): transport allows, and tickets are inexpensive if purchased in advance (see www.trenitalia.com and www.italotreno.it) . However, you should be aware that each of these cities deserves much more than a short one-day visit. At least in Verona, Venice, Florence and Rome, there is no doubt that it is worth staying for a few days. If this is not your first time going to Italy (or if you plan to come again and again and again), then it is advisable to focus on the immediate surroundings of Milan, which are by no means deprived of attractions.
As for transport, traveling around Milan is quite convenient by rail (see www.trenitalia.com). However, in some cases (for example, when it comes to small towns and villages located away from the main tourist routes), it makes sense to rent a car (see www.rentalcars.com as an option) - this way you can get to many places without transfers , which is both more convenient and faster. Sometimes other types of transport can come in handy, in particular water transport, which will be discussed below (you will find all the necessary links throughout the text).
So, where to go from Milan? Let's start our review of the relevant destinations with the alpine lakes.
The lakes are perhaps the most popular travel destination from Milan, especially in summer. It’s one thing to escape the heat in a big, noisy city, and quite another to be in the fresh air, surrounded by natural beauty. And not only natural ones, I must say. In the northern outskirts of Milan you can find many colorful towns and villages, without which the Alpine landscapes are unthinkable. Nature and culture are intertwined here.
The most famous lakes are Maggiore, Como and Garda. Each of them can be visited as a one-day trip from Milan. There are other, perhaps less well-known, but no less interesting lakes in the alpine foothills. In general, there is freedom to create all kinds of routes, even for half a day or a day, even for a month. This topic is discussed in detail in the article “From Milan to the Lakes”. Here we will limit ourselves to a brief summary.
Going to lake Maggiore(Lago Maggiore), it is worth paying attention to places such as Arona, Angera, Stresa and the Boromean Islands - Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola Superiore . It is convenient to get here by rail, both from Milano Centrale (faster from here) and from Milano Porta Garibaldi station. For example, the road from Milano Centrale to Stresa takes about an hour. It is convenient to move around the lake by water transport (see www.navigazionelaghi.it).
On the lake Como(Lago di Como) Bellagio, Lenno, Tremezzo, Menaggio and Varenna deserve primary attention, as well as the town of the same name - Como. From Milan it is convenient to go first to Como (a little over half an hour from Milano Centrale to Como S. Giovanni station, or almost an hour from Milano Cadorna to Como Nord Borghi, you can also get to Como from Milano Porta Garibaldi station). Then you can use water transport (see www.navigazionelaghi.it). Another option is to drive to Varenna (about an hour's drive from Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino station) and then take a boat trip to Bellagio, Menaggio, etc. (Varenna is much closer to these places than Como.)
On the lake Garda(Lago di Garda) It will be interesting to visit first of all Sirmione. For this purpose, you can get to Desenzano del Garda (an hour and a half drive from Milano Centrale), from where boats regularly run in the direction of Sirmione (see www.navigazionelaghi.it). In addition, by water you can reach such picturesque places as Salò (with an emphasis on the "o"), Malcesine (Malcesine) and Limone (Limone).
In addition to these three lakes, you can go from Milan to lake Iseo(Lago d'Iseo), lake Horta(Lago d'Orta) And lake Lugano(Lago di Lugano).
At first glance, the visit Verona(Verona) It is advisable to combine it with a trip to Lake Garda (Lago di Garda). If you’re going to Garda, then why not stop by Verona? However, like Bergamo, Verona deserves more. In general, it would be a good idea to spend two or three days, or at least a day, on this city, staying here overnight (detailed recommendations for accommodation in Verona are outlined) on the way to Venice, where it is especially not worth going on a one-day excursion.
(No, if you really want to, you can go to Venice from Milan in one day. Just be prepared for the fact that the trip will be tiring. Besides, if you’re not used to it in Venice, you risk getting lost in the crowd without really seeing anything. )
However, you can do a lot in one day in Verona - at a minimum, wander around the Old Town, look at the Arena (Arena di Verona), look into a couple of churches or the so-called “Juliet’s House” and, finally, admire the city with heights of the Lamberti Tower (Torre dei Lamberti).
If you travel from Milan to Verona by high-speed train, the journey will take about an hour and a half - to Porta Nuova station, which is about 15-20 minutes walk from the historical center of Verona.
Cremona(Cremona), unlike Verona, is not spoiled by the attention of tourists, despite the fact that from Milan you can get here in just over an hour by regional train (from the Cremona train station to the historical center of the city you can walk in about 15 minutes). The city is notable for the fact that it was here that the great Antonio Stradivari lived and worked in his time, whose name is known even to those who have never held a violin in their hands. Of course, there is a Stradivarius Museum in Cremona. In fact, it is part of the City Museum of Cremona (Museo Civico) and is located in its building (there is also the Violin Museum, Museo del Violino, which is located at a different address - do not be confused). But, perhaps, the main visiting card of Cremona is Piazza del Comune with the majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the adjacent baptistery (Battistero) and the soaring bell tower of Torrazzo. . By the way, if you wish, you can climb this bell tower - the views from there are excellent. True, you will have to walk to a height of more than 100 meters. The architectural ensemble of the square is completed by the City Hall (Palazzo Comunale). The result is a wonderful example of medieval architecture. In other words, if you breathe unevenly towards the Middle Ages and dream of wandering through the half-empty streets of an ancient Italian city, know that Cremona is what you need.
Mantua(Mantova) is not that far from Milan. But high-speed trains do not go here, and by train Regionale the journey takes almost two hours one way (plus about 10-15 minutes on foot to the historical center of the city). If this circumstance does not bother you, you have an excellent opportunity to see a beautiful and original city. Mantua was once the capital of the duchy (Mantua, respectively). The legacy of those glorious times has largely survived to this day. First of all, we are talking about the Ducal Palace (Palazzo Ducale) and the adjacent castle of St. George (Castello di San Giorgio), where you can admire the frescoes by Andrea Montegna. This is, as they say, a must see. However, the rest of the city makes quite a positive impression - there is something to see, and it’s pleasant to walk around it. In addition, Mantua is located on the same railway line as Cremona (from Cremona to Mantua is less than an hour’s drive), and therefore it will be convenient to get to know these cities in one trip. You just need to understand that in this case the acquaintance will be superficial.
Brescia(Brescia) often underestimated. It is believed that there is nothing to do here, and therefore, when planning travel routes from Milan, many tourists pay absolutely no attention to this city. And, perhaps, in vain. If Cremona and Mantua do not appeal to you, and you have already visited Bergamo and Verona, then the idea of going to Brescia takes on quite tangible weight. It's worth coming here for at least half a day. This time will be enough to stroll through the pretty historical center of Brescia and visit the main city attraction - the fortress (Castello di Brescia), which once belonged, like the city itself, to the Visconti Dukes of Milan.
The journey from Milan to Brescia will take just over an hour if you travel by regional train, and about 50 minutes if you travel by high-speed train. From Brescia train station the city center is just a stone's throw away (10 minutes on foot).
In addition, we note that it is convenient to go through Brescia to Lake Iseo (Lago d’Iseo; the town of Iseo is no more than half an hour by train). You can also complement your trip to Brescia with a visit to Cremona (about an hour by train).
If you don’t want to travel far and long, then Pavia(Pavia)– one of the best destinations for a short excursion from Milan. The historical center of the city is small and to get around it, by and large, 3-4 hours will be enough, but if you like it, you can stay for a longer time. Pavia is an ancient city, which at one time managed to be the capital of the Lombard kingdom. Pavia later became part of Lombardy. The university that still exists today (Università di Pavia) was founded here and a castle (Castello Visconteo) was erected, within the walls of which there are now several museum sections (Musei Civici). In short, Pavia is a city with history and its own unique atmosphere. However, tourists often do not reach Pavia, limiting themselves to visiting the monastery Certosa di Pavia(Certosa di Pavia; also known as the Certosa of Pavia and the Carthusian Monastery). Indeed, the monastery is impressive, but Pavia should not be ignored. In other words, it makes sense to plan a trip for the whole day in order to see both the monastery and the city. At the same time, when planning your trip route, keep in mind that during the daytime, and almost always on Mondays, the Certosa is closed (detailed information about the visiting schedule can be found on the website museo.certosadipavia.beniculturali.it).
Pavia can be reached in 20–30 minutes directly from Milano Centrale and Milano Rogoredo stations. Certosa is about 20 minutes from Milano Rogoredo (there are no direct trains from Milano Centrale). Between Pavia and Certosa it is less than 10 minutes' drive.
About the trip to Kremu(Crema) It’s worth thinking about if you suddenly start to feel like you’ve already seen everything in the vicinity of Milan. This provincial town seems to be nothing special. But that's the beauty of it. Each of these seemingly inconspicuous Italian cities has its own charm. Crema, in this sense, is an illustrative example. Firstly, there are almost no tourists here. The city is on its own wave, and therefore, wandering through its streets and squares, it is interesting not only to look at the surrounding architecture, but also to observe the daily life of the townspeople. Secondly, if you look closely, even in the most remote Italian outback there is bound to be something interesting. And here you can be surprised to discover that Crema, although not large, does not give the impression of a backwater at all. There is a pretty Old Town, elegant palazzos (Palazzo Donati and Palazzo Bondenti, for example), and a small City Museum (Museo Civico di Crema e del Cremasco), and, of course, its own Duomo (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta), where without him. Separately, we note the so-called Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Croce (Santuario di Santa Maria della Croce) - a temple erected on the occasion of the appearance of the Virgin Mary. This church is located somewhat away from the historical center of Crema. However, from the same Duomo to the sanctuary it is only a 20-25 minute walk.
If you travel from Milan to Crema by public transport, then perhaps the most convenient way is to take a train with a transfer to Treviglio(Treviglio). The journey takes about an hour one way. By the way, Treviglio is also a rather pleasant town with a cozy historical center. On the way to Crema, you can easily stay here for a couple of hours.
Speaking of small towns located near Milan, it is worth mentioning at least such places as Lodi(Lodi) And Monza(Monza). Both are even closer, and from a historical point of view, perhaps even more interesting than Crema. And you can get to them without transfers: to Monza in 10–20 minutes, and to Lodi in 20–30 minutes.
When choosing a hotel or apartment in Italy in general and in Milan in particular, use not only booking sites, but also price comparison services. We recommend Roomguru.ru.
You should do the same when searching for air tickets. Pay attention, for example, to Skyscanner.ru.
- the second largest city in Italy, its important commercial, economic and scientific center. It is located in the northern part of the country, in the Lombardy region, and is divided into nine districts. The population is just over a million people, but this figure is constantly growing, because these places attract the opportunity to get a prestigious profession or a highly paid job.
Milan is a recognized center of fashion and style, but this is only one side of the city. Literally from the first minutes you can feel its difference from ancient and solemn Rome - active life is in full swing here, contracts are signed, companies are created, new industries are opened. However, at the same time, everything bears the clear imprint of a glorious history. Those who come here for the first time will be amazed by the diversity of the city - antiquity and modernity are intertwined so closely that without any detail, be it an office building or a medieval statue, this ensemble will not be complete.
Video: Milan
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The history of Milan dates back to the 6th century BC. - to the settlement of the Etruscans, and in 222 BC. e. the city was conquered by the Romans. Later it became the capital of the Roman province of Cisalypina, and from 286 Milan was the capital of the Western Roman Empire and the residence of the emperors.
The consolidation of Christianity as a state religion began here. In 1158 Milan became one of the first Italian communes.
In the 9th century, the city was sacked by the German Emperor, Frederick Barbarossa. In response, in 1160, Milan led the Lombard League (the Union of cities united in the fight against the emperor), and in 1176 Barbarossa was defeated at Lpiano.
An important era in the history of the city begins with the coming to power in 1277 of the Visconti, who were replaced by the Sforza in 1450. Outstanding artists and architects began to arrive in the city, among them Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1521) and Donato Bramante (1444-1514), and many new buildings appeared. Then leapfrog began: first the city was ruled by the Spanish Habsburgs (after 1530), the Austrians (1714-1769, 1814-1859) and the French (1796-1814). Under the Austrians in the 19th century, Milan became the intellectual center of the movement for the unification of Italy - the Risorgimento. After 1945, Milan became the industrial metropolis of Northern Italy.
Sights of Milan
Despite the modern appearance of Milan, the historical past still makes its way through. For example, around the corner of a small street you can unexpectedly stumble upon a 5th century church, and in the very center of the metropolis, surrounded by boutiques, rises the majestic Duomo. This makes the city attractive not only for fashionistas, but also for travelers who love to make discoveries. However, Milan is very different from other tourist destinations, especially Rome and Florence - to get to know it, you need to be patient and devote a lot of time.
All sights of Milan 
Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano)
The main attraction of Milan, its heart, is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Nascente. It is made in the Gothic style from white marble and amazes with the beauty of its exterior design. The façade is decorated with turrets, statues of saints, compositions depicting biblical stories, and figures of strange creatures, including gargoyles. The figure of the Madonna rises above all this - she is considered the patroness of the city.
The interior of the cathedral is no less luxurious. High ceilings, graceful arches and columns create an impression of lightness and airiness. It is worth coming here during Mass to listen to one of the most famous organs in the world play. You should definitely go up to the roof of the Duomo - it offers a fantastic view of the city.
Tourists who decide to see the cathedral should remember that visiting it is only possible in clothing that meets the standards of decency. Thus, short skirts, shorts, sweaters that reveal shoulders or with a too deep neckline are strictly prohibited. There is a special service at the entrance that checks the belongings of those entering and also decides whether to let visitors inside or not.
Sforzesco Castle
There are also ancient castles in Milan. The most famous of them is the former residence of the Sforze Dukes, who left to their heirs a majestic 14th-century fortress. Leonardo da Vinci himself took part in its decoration, but his work has hardly survived to this day.
Now the Sforchesco Castle has been turned into a museum - its halls contain unique paintings and statues of recognized masters. The decoration of the collection is an unfinished sculpture by Michelangelo. Moving from room to room, visitors will become familiar with the development of cultural trends. If you wish, you can order an excursion, but this is not necessary - information booklets have been prepared for each exhibition in various languages, including Russian.
Lovers of antiquity will be captivated by the Egyptian Hall. It houses sarcophagi, ancient medical devices, gold jewelry and even mummies of pharaohs. To visit museums you need to take tickets, which are distributed free of charge; entrance to some rooms is paid - 15 euros.
There is also a beautiful garden on the castle grounds, where it is pleasant to stroll and take a break from the hustle and bustle. Goldfish swim in an artificial pond, and white and pink lilies adorn the surface of the water - all this gives peace and tranquility.
Pictures and art galleries of Milan
Milan is one of the leading cities in Italy in terms of the number of art galleries. At the same time, not only the collections of works of art amaze with their magnificence, but also the buildings themselves in which they are stored.
For example, the Brera Gallery (Pinacoteca di Brera) is located in a luxurious palace, where 38 rooms display paintings that are unique in their artistic value. Rubens, Bellini, Raphael, Picasso, Caravaggio - this is not a complete list of authors whose paintings are stored here. For convenience, the paintings are divided into groups according to a chronological principle, as well as by schools of painting. In addition, visitors will be shown how damaged paintings are restored in a restoration workshop.
Andrea Mantegna's "Dead Christ" (1475–1478) is the most famous painting in the Brera Gallery 
Giovanni Bellini "Pieta" (between 1465 and 1470) 
Francesco Hayez "The Kiss" (1859)
Another must-visit place for those who are interested in classical painting is the Ambrosiana Art Gallery (Pinacoteca Ambrosiana). This museum is the oldest in Milan: it was created at the beginning of the 17th century. Paintings by Titian, Botticelli, Caravaggio, and Rembrandt are kept here. The large hall is dedicated to the work of Leonardo da Vinci - visitors can see not only his paintings, but also manuscripts and drawings. The collection of jewelry of the illegitimate daughter of Pope Alexander VI, Lucrezia Borgia, deserves special attention.
The Gallery of Modern Art in Milan should not deceive visitors with its name - the “youngest” exhibits are at least seventy years old, and most of the paintings date back to the 18th century. In numerous richly decorated rooms, tourists will find paintings by Picasso, Renoir, Monet, Fattori, Mose Bianchi and many others. The Pinakothek building itself is also interesting - it is the former villa of Napoleon Bonaparte. After viewing the magnificent collections, it is worthwhile to relax for a while in the cozy garden surrounding the villa.
Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie
The life and work of da Vinci are closely connected with Milan. One of his most famous works - the fresco "The Last Supper" - is located here. You can see the masterpiece in the small 15th century church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, or rather in the refectory of the adjacent monastery.
It is noteworthy that the painting by Leonardo da Vinci in its original version has practically not been preserved. The fact is that it began to collapse, and in order to preserve the masterpiece for posterity, it was constantly adjusted, correcting fragments damaged by dampness.
To get into the refectory, where the famous biblical scene is depicted, it is advisable to sign up in advance via the Internet, for example, on the website http://www.milan-museum.com/booking-tickets.php - there are so many people who want to see this miracle that tickets are sold out several months in advance. For an adult, admission will cost from 10 to 30 euros. 25 people are allowed into the refectory, and the session lasts only 15 minutes. Filming is strictly prohibited - this is strictly monitored, and violators are fined.
Opera House "La Scala" (Teatro alla Scala or La Scala)
Behind the modest, one might even say, inconspicuous façade hides one of the most famous opera houses in the world - La Scala. To be in Milan and not go to the opera is a real crime against art. Inside, the building amazes with luxury and pomp. The premises are decorated with gold and velvet, walls and ceilings decorated with stucco, marble statues - this will delight even the most sophisticated theatergoers. Without exception, all visitors note the excellent acoustics. The music and singing of the actors can be clearly heard in any corner of the hall.
The cost of an opera ticket will depend on the location and the performance itself. For example, on the day of the premiere in the box and even in the stalls, you will have to pay at least 200 euros for the opportunity to listen to the arias. On a normal day, the price for a seat in the gallery drops to 25-30 euros. You can buy a ticket either at the theater box office, in the metro or on the website http://www.teatroallascala.org/en/index.html.
Interior of La Scala Opera House
When going to the opera, it is important to remember the dress code: for women - evening dresses, and for men - classic suits. This rule is strictly observed, which also helps maintain an atmosphere of solemnity.
Monument to the Middle Finger (Statua del Dito Medio)
In addition to the majestic antique statues, which are the embodiment of grace and harmony, there are also works of art in Milan that shock and amaze with their originality. One of these is the scandalous monument to the middle finger or, as it is popularly called, “Il Dito”. It was created for the exhibition “Against Ideology” by the famous artist of Italian origin Maurizio Cattelan, who called the sculpture “L. O.V.E.” which stands for “libertà, odio, vendetta, eternità” or “freedom, hatred, revenge, eternity.”
It is noteworthy that this four-meter brush with the middle finger proudly raised upward is displayed not just anywhere, but on Affari Square opposite the Milan Stock Exchange building. All other fingers are chopped off - many associate this with the unwavering ideals of the author, others with willpower, which makes it possible to resist the ruthlessness of the modern world - there can be a huge number of interpretations.
Shopping in Milan
Milan is the fashion capital of the world and is home to one of the most popular shopping districts, called the “golden quadrangle” and “fashion square” (Quadrilatero D’Oro). It is he who attracts the majority of vacationers, and not the Duomo or La Scala. It includes the following streets:
- Montenapoleone (via Monte Napoleone),
- Sant Andrea (Via Sant’Andrea),
- Spiga (Via della Spiga),
- Gesu (Via Gesù),
- Borgospesso (Via Borgospesso).
Here you can find stores of Ferragamo, Gucci, Versace, Hermes, Dior and Burberry, Valentino, Prada, Fendi, Armani and other brands, the names of which please the ears of fashionistas and fashionistas all over the world.
In addition to clothing, they sell designer shoes made of Italian leather, the quality of which is known far beyond the country's borders. There is a particularly large selection of shops on Via Marghera. You can't ignore the jewelry stores and antique shops. Few people manage to leave the “fashion district” with a full wallet - shiny windows attract like a magnet.
You also can’t help but look into the Victor Emmanuel II shopping gallery (Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II). The passage is interesting not only for the shops located here, but also for its architecture and rich mosaic decoration. This is an entire street under a crystal dome, where you can spend the whole day walking.
Those who do not have too much money can go shopping in the Ingrosso area. It is located between the central train station and the Republic metro station. There are many shops of small brands or emerging designers, outlets and wholesale clothing stores concentrated here.
Shopping in Milan is especially attractive during sales. The winter season begins immediately after the New Year, and the summer season begins in the first week of July, and they last approximately two months. At the same time, the size of the discounts increases towards the end of the season, however, the choice of goods by that time is also significantly reduced.
Taste of Milan
Milan is also famous throughout the world for its restaurants. Here you can taste both traditional and experimental dishes. However, there are a few things that are definitely worth trying. First of all, this is panzerotti from Luini. These pies, or as tourists call them, closed pizza, are a kind of gastronomic symbol of the region. Under the crispy crust there can be a variety of fillings: eggplant and mozzarella, salami and tomatoes with cheese, spinach, ricotta, jam and much more. The queues at the counters of the historic cafe, located at Via Santa Radegonda, 16, can be compared to those lining up for the cathedral.
Visiting Milan and not trying ice cream is a sign of bad taste. You can find more than fifty varieties of this dessert in local cafes. Those who are not afraid of experiments can try sorbet with cinnamon and chili flavors.
Where to stay in Milan
To understand Milan well and to know its characteristic style, you need to devote at least several days to studying. With this in mind, it is important to find good accommodation. This could be a hotel, hostel or apartment.
Most tourists coming here decide to book a hotel room. In all areas of the city you can find a huge number of establishments of various classes and levels of comfort, so anyone can choose an apartment to suit their taste and budget.
When choosing, you should focus on the location and number of stars. For example, tourists who come to Milan for relaxation and sightseeing should choose accommodation in the vicinity of the Duomo, Milano Centrale and Porta Garibaldi train stations. The Michelangelo Hotel Milan 4* Armani Hotel Milano received good reviews in these areas - the aromas of this brand's perfume in the corridors perfectly emphasize the luxury of the establishment. Of course, this hotel is suitable only for those who are not afraid of three-digit numbers on price tags. More affordable is the NH President Hotel, located east of the Duomo, with the boutique district a short walk away.
Room at Ostello Burigozzo HostelHostels or hotels with one star and a minimum of amenities are an excellent choice for tourists who want to save money and choose more interesting ways to spend money. Among such establishments you can find some quite interesting options. For example, Zebra Hostel, Ostello Burigozzo, Central Milano are located in the city center, and prices per bed do not exceed 100 euros.
The guest network – couchsurfing – is extremely popular among young people in Italy. On the website https://www.couchsurfing.com you can find like-minded people who will agree to shelter travelers for a similar service on their part, if necessary. In this way, tourists manage to save significantly on housing, since they do not pay rent, unless they can buy groceries and treat the owner to dinner. In addition, this is also a great way to find friends and make useful contacts around the world.
Hotel deals
How to get to Milan
Considering the distance of Milan from Russia, the most convenient mode of transport remains the plane. By choosing a good carrier, you can ensure yourself a comfortable, not very long flight at a favorable price. Not far from the city there are three airports that accept international flights, so there will be no problems finding tickets.
The closest place to the city is Malpensa. Daily routes from Aeroflot and Alitalia run to it from Sheremetvo. The flight time will be approximately three and a half hours, and the ticket price ranges from 37 to 93 thousand rubles, depending on the class and date of purchase.
Comfortable buses run from the airport to the city center. The first flight departs at 6.00 am, and the last one at 23.00. The journey will cost 5-10 euros.
In addition, Malpensa Airport is connected to Milan by direct rail. Train schedules can be found on the website www.malpensaexpress.it. If the plane arrives at night, tourists will have to take a taxi.
The cars are equipped with meters, but despite this, such a trip will cost about 100 euros. Tourists who have a room booked can order a transfer to the hotel. In this case, travel will cost from 80 euros.
When choosing public transport, you need to decide on the final station. There can be two of them: Milano Cadorna, located near the Sforzesco Castle, and Milano Centrale - the central railway station of the city, an important transport hub, from where trains run not only to any city in Italy, but also to all European countries. From there you can get to any corner of Milan by metro or buses.
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Milan (Italy) - the most detailed information about the city with photos. The main attractions of Milan with descriptions, guides and maps.
City of Milan (Italy)
Milan is the main city of Northern Italy and the capital of the Lombardy region. This is a modern metropolis, which is considered the business and financial center of the country. Milan is the capital of fashion and business, the most stylish, expensive and rich city in Italy, which is rated on a par with Paris and London among lovers of entertainment and shopping. But this is not the only thing the capital of Lombardy is famous for. Here you can look at such famous attractions as: the magnificent Duomo, the Sforzesco Castle, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazia, which houses the legendary fresco by Leonardo da Vinci “The Last Supper” and many other equally interesting historical and cultural monuments.
Milan Central Station receives trains from most major cities in Italy: Turin, Rome, Naples, Florence, Venice, as well as from many European capitals and cities: Barcelona, Zurich, Geneva, Paris, Munich, Vienna, Prague. The train station has access to the metro. Another important railway station is Cadorna. The Malpensa Airport Express stops here and there is also a metro.
There is a popular phrase that “all roads lead to Rome.” So, all roads in Northern Italy go to Milan. The city has excellent transport accessibility. But it should be noted that highways are toll roads.
Milan has a well-developed public transport system: metro, trams and buses. There is a single ticket, which can be purchased at special machines and tobacco kiosks. The fare is 1.5 euros. There are 4 metro lines: red, green, yellow and purple lines.
Shopping and purchases
Milan is one of the main centers of world shopping and fashion. Here you can find everything: from fashion brands to products from small designer workshops. The main shopping area is the Fashion Quadrangle, which is located between the Duomo, Piazza Cavour and Piazza San Babila. Most of the famous boutiques can be found on the streets of Montenapoleone, Della Spiga, Vittorio Emanuele, Sant Andrea, Porta Venezia and Manzoni. Near Milan there are as many as five large outlets where you can buy designer and branded items at big discounts. The largest of the outlets is Serravalle. It is located an hour's drive from Milan and buses depart from the Sforzesco Castle.
Food and drink
Although Milan often follows fashion and modern trends, it is one of the outposts of traditional Italian cuisine. Avoid restaurants around the Duomo, they tend to be popular tourist spots with poor quality food at inflated prices. Please be aware that most restaurants charge an additional "service charge", approximately 2 euros per customer.
Attractions
Although Milan is not the first city many tourists associate with Italy, it does boast some wonderful sights and cultural monuments. For all its serious reputation as the fashionable, business and financial center of the country, it is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage.
The Duomo or Cathedral of Santa Maria Nascente is a symbol of Milan, located in the heart of the city on the square of the same name. It is one of the largest religious buildings in the world (accommodates about 40,000 people) and probably the most beautiful church in the Gothic style. The Duomo was built over 4 centuries from the 14th century. Its roof is topped with 135 spiers, and its façade is decorated with 2,245 marble statues. The modest interior, strikingly contrasting with the glittering and richly patterned exterior, makes a strong impression with its 52 gigantic columns. The stained glass windows and nave of the Duomo are the largest in the world. Inside you can see a bronze candelabra from 1200, the tomb of Giacomo Medici, and the reliquary of San Carlo Borromeo. A walk along the roof of the Duomo will be very atmospheric, from where on clear days you can see the snow-capped peaks of the Alps. Next to the central passage there is an underground entrance where you can see the foundations of an ancient 4th century basilica and baptistery, discovered during the construction of the metro. Entrance to the cathedral is free. Important: entry in short skirts, shorts and bare shoulders is prohibited.
Gallery of Victor Emmanuel II - located slightly away from the Duomo and connects the cathedral square with Piazza La Scala. It was built in the 70s of the 19th century and at that time was the largest shopping gallery in Europe. There are expensive boutiques and elegant cafes here. The gallery is a superb example of 19th century architecture.
La Scala - one of the most famous opera houses in the world is located in a rather inconspicuous building in a small square. Accommodates 2,800 spectators. The season lasts from December to May.
Santa Maria delle Grazie is a 15th-century brick Gothic church with an early Renaissance Bramante dome. Gained worldwide fame thanks to Leonardo da Vinci's fresco "The Last Supper". Unfortunately, the church and the fresco were damaged during bombing during the Second World War. Leonardo's fresco was painted in the refectory of a former Dominican monastery at the end of the 15th century. Unfortunately, da Vinci's fresco is constantly being destroyed and restored (Leonardo painted the fresco on damp plaster).
The Sforzesco Castle is one of the main attractions of Milan, included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The castle was built in the 14th century and was the main residence of the Milanese rulers - the Visconti and Sforza. Now there is a magnificent museum with such rarities as Michelangelo’s last masterpiece, paintings by Bellini, Correggio, Mantegna, Berggone, Foppa, Lotto, Tintoretto, Egyptian and other antiquities, medieval weapons. In front of the 70-meter Torre de Filare there is a large fountain built under Mussolini. Behind the castle is the large neoclassical Sempione Park, one of the favorite places of Milanese.
The historic district of Cinque Vie is the oldest part of Milan, located between Piazza Cordusio, Via Meravigli and Via Orefici. In this area you can find many Roman archaeological sites such as the theatre, the imperial palace and the imperial mint. In addition, there are many ancient churches, such as Santa Maria alla Porta (the Baroque pearl of Milan), San Sebastiano, San Giorgio el Palazzo, Santa Maria Podone, San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore .
San Maurizio is a Baroque church whose interior is considered the most beautiful of Milan's religious buildings. It was built at the beginning of the 16th century for a Benedictine nunnery. Inside the church is painted with beautiful frescoes by the best masters of Lombardy. The monastery was built on the ruins of an ancient Roman circus and walls. Now there is an archaeological museum here, which will introduce Milan during the Roman Empire.
The Pinacoteca de Brera is a 17th-century Renaissance palace that originally housed a Jesuit school. Now it is one of the best art museums in Italy. Paintings by the best artists of Lombardy and students of da Vinci, Venetian masters, Raphael, Titian, Rembrandt, Rubens, Picasso and many others are exhibited here.
San Ambrogio Sant'Ambrogio is one of the oldest churches in Milan, founded in the 4th century by Saint Ambrose, who is the patron saint of the city. The church is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. It was built in the 12th century around the choir of an earlier church from the ninth century. Notable is the ancient altar from the 9th century, located among those built during the Carolingian period.
Cimitero Monument Monumento Cimitero is a monumental cemetery from the late 18th century that is famous for its rich tombstones and Art Nouveau sculptures.
The Da Vinci Museum is a national museum of science and technology located in a former monastery. Of particular interest is the Leonardo da Vinci gallery with working models of many of his inventions and machines, created according to his drawings and drawings. Also on display are instruments used by Galileo, Newton and Volta.
Naviglio is an atmospheric place in the area of the canal of the same name with many restaurants and clubs.
Sant'Eustorgio is a 12th-century Romanesque basilica with a beautiful tall bell tower. Nearby is another church - San Lorenzo Maggiore, dating from the early Christian period. The Renaissance dome was added in 1574, the mosaic in the chapel of St. Aquilina dates from the 4th century. In front of the church is a portico of sixteen Corinthian columns, which is the largest surviving monument from the Roman period.
The Arch of Peace is an interesting example of neoclassical architecture. This triumphal arch was built in the first half of the 18th century and is located in the center of a large square behind the Sforzesco Castle and the park. Construction of the arch began under Napoleon Bonaparte, but was completed after his defeat at Waterloo by the Austrian monarch Francis I, who dedicated it to peace.
Santa Maria del Carmine is a church of the Carmelite Order, built in the 13th century from red brick. The church was destroyed by fire in the 14th century and abandoned. Restored in the 15th century by Antonio Solari. It is an interesting example of Lombard neo-Gothic.
The Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore (St. Lawrence) is a temple built in the Renaissance style with an ancient baptistery and a Romanesque bell tower from the 12th century. The church was founded in the 4th century and is one of the oldest in Milan. A mosaic from the period of late Antiquity and several Roman columns have been preserved here.
San Babila is a brick church founded in the 11th century. The baroque building of the 16th century was rebuilt in the 19th century in the style of its original medieval appearance. The neo-Romanesque bell tower was completed in the 30s of the 20th century.
The Velasca Tower is an interesting example of civil engineering. This is a 106-meter skyscraper of an unusual architectural form.
