The Best Things To Do In Milan • myBreakSearch

Milan, in the north of Italy is the fashion and design capital of the world. Some of the most significant fashion shows are held here.

Other than just fashion and design, Milan is a leader in arts, entertainment, music and sports. It is home to two of football's most recognised clubs, AC Milan and Inter Milan.

The cuisine here is also exquisite, although this does come a humble second in comparison to fashion.

Milan is a financial hub and big business is a considerable part of life. This fast-paced city has tremendous flair which simply must be experienced.

Hotels in Milan

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Duomo of Milan and the Piazza del Duomo

The Duomo of Milan is the cities cathedral. The Gothic architecture of this impressive religious building needs to be admired. It took an incredible six centuries to complete and it's easy to see why due to the impeccable detail. At 108 metres tall, there are 200 steps that take you all the way up to the roof where you will get fantastic views over Milan, although you can always take the lift if you would prefer. The square that sits adjacent to the cathedral, is the Piazza del Duomo. This stunning square marks the centre of Milan. It is a cultural hot spot and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

Royal Palace of Milan

Palazzo Reale di Milano is the former Royal Palace and seat of Government. The Palace is sat right next to Duomo of Milan and the Piazza del Duomo. During World War II the building sustained reasonably heavy damage and is still receiving ongoing restoration. The Hall of Caryatids is the most notable room of the Palace. Grand receptions used to take place here. Guests observed orchestral performances from boxes which lined room. The hall was destroyed during the bombing in 1943, but as recently as the year 2000, has been restored to its former prestige.

Leonardo’s Last Supper

Leonardo da Vinci’s, ‘The Last Supper’ is a world-famous masterpiece and is situated within the Santa Maria delle Grazie, a Baroque chapel which Duke Ludovico Sforza had adopted. During World War II the chapel was heavily damaged. During the restoration the paintings were brought back to life and can been seen in all its glory today. The subject of the remarkable painting is to depict the moment at which Jesus announces to his disciples that one of them had been betraying him. Visitors are both limited to time and numbers, so it is well worth booking in advance as to not be disappointed.

Teatro alla Scala

Teatro alla Scala, La Scala Theatre, is one of the most notable Opera Houses and Ballet Theatres. This six-tier auditorium, horse shoe in shape, creates some of the best acoustics in performance arts. Many of the top composers in history have performed here including Arturo Toscanini and Guiseppe Verdi. Take a tour of the Teatro alla Scala and savour the Verdi music tour visiting the Museum of Musical Instruments, where you will see ancient musical instruments from a bygone era.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Whether shopping is your thing or not, The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the grandest examples of architecture. It is aptly named after the first king of Italy. Most of the finest names in fashion have outlets here, including Prada, Versace, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Armani and Massimo Dutti. As well as shops there are plenty of restaurants to choose from to sample Milanese and Italian delicacies.

Sforza Castle

This castle was built in the 15th Century by Francesco Sforza. It is one of many great emblems of Milan. Within the castle are now museums and art collections, which includes the last ever sculpture created by Michelangelo, the Rondanini Pieta.

Parco Sempione

Parco Sempione is overlooked by the Sforza Castle and is the perfect location to have a relaxing wander away from the urban jungle. There is still plenty to see and do in this park. The Arch of Peace is a giant marble arch was built as an accolade to Napoleon’s war victories. There is also the Arena Civica. This 10,000-seater stadium still holds sports venues, concerts and cultural events. If you are not scared of heights the Torra Branca is a must. Take an elevator up one of the tallest structures in Milan and be witness to the most incredible views of this magnificent city.

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Map of Milan

History and Culture of Milan

The history of Milan can be found to have started in the year 400 BC by the Celtic Insurbes which settled in the area. In 222 BC the Romans conquered due to its advantageous position in the territory.

During the years 402 and 774 there were many invasions on the area from Gothic and Germanic groups. Milan was all but destroyed during the Gothic War. In 569 the Lombards conquered and controlled the area, which is where the Lombarby region gets its name. Moving forward to 774, Milan surrendered to Charlemagne and the Franks, a Germanic Tribe.

The 12th century brought yet more wars. Milan was destroyed again, but following this there was a period of peace for the city. Unfortunately, wars broke out again during the end of the 15th to the middle of the 16th century which ended with the Spanish Hapsburg’s in control.

Austrian domination followed but Napoleon’s armies claimed the city in 1796.

After Napoleon's fall in 1814, the area was given back to the Austrian rule. However, the Austrians were driven out and Italy was formed shortly after.

Most recently during the World Wars, Milan was impaired but after World War II the city boomed and became a world leader in industry.

Hotels In Milan

Choose your ideal hotel or apartment in Milan. Select based upon your location, exclusivity or budget and start planning your perfect city break now.

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