Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II Milan Italy

The cosmopolitan city of Milan is the perfect blend of old and new. In this vibrant Italian city, towering modern skyscrapers, historic town squares and centuries old canals sit side-by-side. No matter what you’re interested in, Milan has something for you! Best of all, a large number of the attractions in Milan are absolutely free. In this Milan travel guide, we’ll show you the 17 best free things to do in Milan Italy.

Plan your trip: Here are our Milan Italy top recommendations:

Activities: book your Milan Italy Tours with Get Your Guide.

Accommodation: we use Booking.com to find the best hotels.

Transport: TrainLine for trains and FlixBus for intercity buses.

Flights: find cheapest flights with cashback on WayAway.

Airport Lounge Access: start your holiday the right way with Priority Pass.

Travel Medical Insurance: SafetyWing Nomad Insurance is the ideal choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

Top free things to do in Milan Italy

We love a good bargain, and there’s no better bargain than getting something for free! For ease of reference, here is our list of the top free things to do in Milan Italy.

  1. Piazza del Duomo
  2. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
  3. Sempione Park
  4. Cimitero Monumentale di Milano
  5. Santa Maria delle Grazie
  6. I Navigli
  7. Naviglio Grande
  8. Vicolo Lavandai
  9. Brera District
  10. Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore
  11. Piazza Gae Aulenti
  12. Bosco Verticale
  13. Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa
  14. UniCredit Tower
  15. Arco della Pace
  16. CityLife
  17. Palazzo Lombardia

Keep reading to find out more about each destination.

Main square in Milan Italy: Piazza del Duomo

About Piazza del Duomo

Courtyard infront of Duomo di Milano Italy
Courtyard infront of Duomo di Milano Italy

Piazza del Duomo (or Cathedral Square) is the main square in Milan. It overlooks Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano). A number of important Milan landmarks also surround the square including the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping centre as well as a number of museums, palaces and galleries. In the centre of the square there is a statue of Italy’s first king, Vittorio Emanuele II.

The square dates back to 1329. It has been enlarged and developed over time and had a major overhaul in the 19th century. Spanning over 17,000m2, this is one of the largest squares in Italy. It is a major gathering place in the city and one of Milan’s major tourist attractions. The square is also a popular location for events, and closing ceremony of the 2026 Winter Paralympics will be held here.

Why visit Piazza del Duomo

Visiting the Piazza del Duomo is the true heart of Milan. This vibrant city square is always filled with people. At all times of day you will see tourists getting photos surrounded by pigeons and with the Duomo in the background. The square is surrounded by impressive buildings of great architectural importance and is one of the best photo spots in Milan. It has a vibrant atmosphere and is a beautiful place to visit both during the day as well as at night.

How long to spend at Piazza del Duomo

To walk all around the Piazza del Duomo takes around half an hour. We recommend spending a few hours meandering around the neighbourhood, enjoying the atmosphere and the views. Make sure you bring your camera is there are plenty of great photo opportunities!

Opening hours for Piazza del Duomo

This free thing to do in Milan Italy is open at all hours.

If you have money to spend at Piazza del Duomo

There are a number of shops, restaurants and cafes in the neighbourhood.

Piazza del Duomo address

Piazza del Duomo, 20121 Milano MI, Italy

Plus Code: F57Q+MV Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Luxury shopping centre in Milan Italy: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

About the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II Milan Italy
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II Milan Italy

The oldest shopping mall in world is Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This palatial high end shopping centre is located in Milan’s historical centre, next to Duomo di Milano. It is often referred to as “il salotto di Milano” (or Milan’s drawing room) as it is a popular gathering place in the city. This high end shopping centre is home to luxury brands and high-end boutiques. There are numerous restaurants and eateries and even a McDonald’s.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II was designed by Italian architect Giuseppe Mengoni and completed in 1877. The name of the galleria is in honour of the first King of Italy. The building has a glass and iron domed roof and a double arcade structure which spans over 4 levels. It is one of the most beautiful shopping centres in the world and has been the inspiration for many other buildings.

A superstition in Milan relates to the tiled mosaic of the Savoy coat of arms on the ground in the middle of the shopping centre. If you put your right heel on the bull and spin in a circle 3 times you will get good luck.

Why visit Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a relaxing place to take a stroll. It is easy to get to from Nervi train station and offers breathtaking views over the water. On a clear day you can see Corsica way off in this distance. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is also a great place to watch the sunset.

How long to spend at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

We recommend spending between half an hour and a couple of hours taking a leisurely stroll along this walking path. Take your time and enjoy the views!

Opening hours for Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

This free thing to do in Milan Italy is open at all hours.

If you have money to spend in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Shop ‘til you drop! This shopping centre also has a great range of restaurants and eateries. We recommend getting a gelato from Amorino.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II address

P.za del Duomo, 20123 Milano MI, Italy

Plus Code: F58Q+8X Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Best park in Milan Italy: Sempione Park

About Sempione Park

Sempione Park (or Pacro Sempione in Italian) is a sprawling urban park in the middle of Milan. It was developed between 1888 and 1894 by Italian architect Emilio Alemagna and spans over 47 hectares (116 acres). This English style garden is located in the historic district of Milan, next to Sforza Castle and Arco della Pace. The park includes green lawns, bike paths and attractions such as the tower Torre Branca, the amphitheatre Arena Civica, the museum Triennale di Milano as well as the aquarium Acquario Civico Milano.

Why visit Sempione Park

Sempione Park is a beautiful green space right in the heart of Milan. It is a great place to relax and enjoy nature. The park has a number of attractions to see including a tower that offers panoramic views over the area. When sightseeing in Milan, it’s also a great place to walk through when visiting other landmarks in the area such as Sforza Castle and Arco della Pace.

How long to spend at Sempione Park

It takes around 15 minutes to walk from one side of the park to the other. However we recommend spending a few hours in this wonderful free thing to do in Milan Italy.

Opening hours for Sempione Park

Daily: 6:30am-9pm

If you have money to spend in Sempione Park

Torre Branca is a tower in the middle of the park that offers panoramic views of the area. You can buy tickets online for 7 euro (price as at 2024). Other attractions in the park include the aquarium (5 euro entry) and the Triennale di Milano museum (ticket prices change depending on the exhibition).

Sempione Park address

Piazza Sempione, 20154 Milano MI, Italy

Plus Code: F5CG+RV Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

One of the most impressive cemeteries in Europe: Cimitero Monumentale di Milano

About Cimitero Monumentale di Milano

Outside Cimitero Monumentale Milan Italy
Cimitero Monumentale Milan Italy

Cimitero Monumentale di Milano (Monumental Cemetery of Milan in English) is sprawling cemetery and one of the biggest in Milan. Designed by Italian architect Carlo Maciachini, the cemetery opened in 1866. This free thing to do in Milan Italy is renowned for its classical Italian sculptures as well as its Greek tombs and ornate obelisks. It is truly an open-air museum.

The cemetery contains a large number of famous graves, many of which are housed in the Famedio building at the main entrance. This grand Neo-Medieval style building is made from marble and stone and befits the importance of the people buried here.

There are many section of the cemetery to explore. This includes the Jewish section, the Central ossuary, the Non-Catholics Allotment, the Necropolis, the Famedio and the Crematorium Temple. The crematorium of this cemetery was the first crematorium to open in the Western world.

The cemetery has free public toilets on site. These are the squat style toilets.

Keep in mind that they lock the gates after hours, so be sure to leave on time or you will get locked in.

Why visit Cimitero Monumentale di Milano

It may seem like an odd choice to visit a cemetery while you are on holiday, but Italian cemeteries are unlike anything we’d ever seen before. We were thoroughly impressed by the grand scale and the ornate monuments of Cimitero Monumentale di Milano. Wandering through the grounds of the cemetery is like being in an open air art gallery. There are so many beautiful statues and monuments to look at. It is a great place for taking photos. While the cemetery is a very popular tourist attraction, it still has a very peaceful atmosphere. It was interesting looking at the different gravestones. Many of the recent ones have photos on the headstone, which gives you a greater sense of the person that is being remembered.

How long to spend at Cimitero Monumentale di Milano

Between half an hour and a couple of hours is a good amount of time to spend at this cemetery. The place is enormous and there’s so much to see. It is a very peaceful place and a great place to come to reflect.

Opening hours for Cimitero Monumentale di Milano

Tuesday-Sunday: 8am-6pm

Monday: Closed

If you have money to spend near Cimitero Monumentale di Milano

Buy flowers to place at the cemetery. There are flower vendors at the gates.

Cimitero Monumentale di Milano address

Piazzale Cimitero Monumentale, 20154 Milano MI, Italy

Plus Code: F5PH+W4 Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Church with The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci: Santa Maria delle Grazie

About Santa Maria delle Grazie Italy

Santa Maria delle Grazie (or Holy Mary of Grace in English) is a UNESCO World Heritage listed church in Milan Italy. It is most well known for housing one of the most famous paintings in the world – The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci (Cenacolo Vinciano in Italian). The painting however is actually in a museum next door to the church and there is an entry fee to see it.

The Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie was completed in 1497. It features both Gothic and Renaissance architetcure. The complex includes a church, a convent as well as a museum. The church itself contains some fine examples of Renaissance art. During World War 2 the basilica was heavily bombed. However the wall holding The Last Supper had been sand-bagged to protect the painting and fortunately survived the blast.

Why visit Santa Maria delle Grazie Italy

The crowds that flock to Santa Maria delle Grazie are no doubt there to see The Last Supper. However the church itself is beautiful and definitely worth a look while you’re in the area. Don’t miss the cloister area which is very peaceful and has beautiful architecture.

How long to spend at Santa Maria delle Grazie Italy

5-10 minutes is sufficient time to visit the church and take a few photos.

Opening hours for Santa Maria delle Grazie Italy

Monday-Saturday: 7am-1pm, 3pm-7:30pm

Sunday: 7:30am-12:30pm, 3pm-9pm

If you have money to spend in Santa Maria delle Grazie Italy

The museum next door to the church has the famous Renaissance mural painting Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. Tickets are 13 euro plus 2 euro advance booking fee. This attraction is extremely popular and usually sells out in advance, so you must book ahead of time to get a ticket.

Santa Maria delle Grazie Italy address

Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, 20123 Milano MI, Italy

Plus Code: F58C+99 Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Best nightlife in Milan Italy: I Navigli Milan Italy

About I Navigli Milan Italy

People walking along I Navigli Che Vorrei Milan Italy
No heels in sight!

One of the most popular neighbourhoods in Milan is I Navigli. Located on the banks of two canals, this district is filled with bars, restaurants, art galleries and boutique vintage shops. It is a popular place to come for an aperitif and you can find some great dinner specials here.

The I Navigli district dates back to the 16th century and is in the historic centre of Milan. The two canals that run through I Navigli are Naviglio Pavese and Naviglio Grande. Both canals have bridges crossing over them, which makes for a very scenic walking area. The area attracts students and artists during the day and a young club going crowd at night.

Why visit I Navigli Milan Italy

I Navigli is a scenic area to walk around and it also has a vibrant nightlife scene. It’s a great place to come for an aperitif and a nice meal.

How long to spend at I Navigli Milan Italy

We recommend spending a few hours in this neighbourhood. It’s a great place to come in the early evening for an aperitif and a meal. The crowds generally arrive after 5pm and it’s a great place to come to watch the sunset.

Opening hours for I Navigli Milan Italy

This free thing to do in Milan Italy is open at all hours. It’s lovely during the day, but it’s particularly popular at night.

If you have money to spend in I Navigli Milan Italy

Buffet-style Aperitivo at Naviglio Grande Milan Italy
Aperitivo at Naviglio Grande Milan Italy

Go to one of the bars or restaurants for an aperitif and a meal. Look out for apertivo specials, where you can get a meal and a drink for around 15 euro per person.

I Navigli Milan Italy address

20123 Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Plus Code: F52G+WQ Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Biggest canal in Milan Italy: Naviglio Grande

About Naviglio Grande Milan Italy

Naviglio Grande Milan Italy, canal in Milan
Naviglio Grande Milan Italy

Naviglio Grande (or Big Canal in English) is, as the name suggests, the biggest and most important canal in Milan. Stretching over 50km (31 miles), it runs from Ticino river to the Porta Ticinese dock (also known as Darsena). The canal was completed in 1272 and was an important trade and transport route.

Why visit Naviglio Grande Milan Italy

Naviglio Grande is a scenic canal with a long and rich history. It’s a beautiful area to walk around and there are plenty of shops, restaurants and bars in the area.

How long to spend at Naviglio Grande Milan Italy

Allow a few hours to enjoy the canal area. It’s a very popular place to come in the late afternoon and early evening.

Opening hours for Naviglio Grande Milan Italy

This free thing to do in Milan Italy is open at all hours.

If you have money to spend in Naviglio Grande Milan Italy

Take a boat ride down Naviglio Grande.

Naviglio Grande Milan Italy address

20123 Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Plus Code: F52G+WQ Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Historic area in Milan Italy: Vicolo Lavandai

About Vicolo Lavandai Milan Italy

Vicolo Lavandai (or Washermen’s Alley in English) is a charming little street off the historic Naviglio Grande canal. This place is a step back in time as it is where washerwomen used to wash clothes on the stones near the canal. The area was used for this purpose from the middle ages right up until the 1950s. Nowadays the area contains colourful houses that belong to that era. The stone stalls that were used to wash the clothes are still present.

Why visit Vicolo Lavandai Milan Italy

Vicolo Lavandai is a lovely area to walk around. It is a picturesque spot and a nice place to take a few photos.

How long to spend at Vicolo Lavandai Milan Italy

5-10 minutes is sufficient time to visit the area and take a few photos.

Opening hours for Vicolo Lavandai Milan Italy

This free thing to do in Milan Italy is open at all hours.

If you have money to spend near Vicolo Lavandai Milan Italy

There are plenty of restaurants and shops near Vicolo Lavandai.

Vicolo Lavandai Milan Italy address

Alzaia Naviglio Grande, 14, 20144 Milano MI, Italy

Plus Code: F52F+RX Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Artist neighbourhood in Milan Italy: Brera District Milan Italy

About Brera District Milan Italy

Brera is known as the artists’ quarter or the design district of Milan. Unsurprisingly it is home to Brera Academy of Fine Arts and the Brera Art Gallery. Set in the historical centre of the city, it is only a 15 minute walk from the Duomo. The neighbourhood has a boho chic vibe and is full of cool and quirky stores, antique shops and markets as well as trendy bars and restaurants. It is also home to the beautiful garden oasis that is the Brera Botanic Garden.

Why visit Brera District Milan Italy

Brera District is one of Milan’s coolest neighbourhoods. It is home to Milan’s art scene and has a great vibe. There are so many interesting places to discover throughout Brera, including the art galleries and museums, the botanical garden and the many shops and restaurants. This area has a lot of character and is a great place to while away a few hours.

How long to spend at Brera District Milan Italy

You can walk through this neighbourhood in around five minutes. However we recommend allowing a couple of hours to look around the area, peruse the shops, perhaps have a meal, take plenty of photos and enjoy the atmosphere.

Opening hours for Brera District Milan Italy

This free thing to do in Milan Italy is open at all hours.

If you have money to spend near Brera District Milan Italy

There are plenty of shops and restaurants in this district.

Brera District Milan Italy address

20121 Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Plus Code: F5CP+Q7 Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Church with stunning Baroque artwork in Milan Italy: Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore Milan Italy

About Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore Milan Italy

Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore (or Church of Saint Maurice al Monastero Maggiore in English) is a 16th century Baroque and Renaissance style Catholic church in Milan Italy. It was originally attached to a Benedictine convent and the interior of the church is partitioned by a central wall to separate the cloistered nuns from the rest of the congregation. Another striking feature of this church are its immersive and remarkably well preserved 16th century frescoes. Additionally there is a 16th century organ that still operates today.

Why visit Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore Milan Italy

The beautiful frescoes that cover the walls and ceilings of Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore are the big draw card of this free Milan Italy attraction. The artwork is incredibly beautiful and a feast for the eyes. Additionally the unusual partition down the centre of the church is an interesting feature.

How long to spend at Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore Milan Italy

5-10 minutes is sufficient time to visit the church and take a few photos.

Opening hours for Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore Milan Italy

Wednesday-Sunday: 10am-5pm

Monday-Tuesday: Closed

If you have money to spend at Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore Milan Italy

The church accepts donations.

Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore Milan Italy address

Corso Magenta, 15, 20123 Milano MI, Italy

Plus Code: F58H+5H Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Modern public square in Milan Italy: Piazza Gae Aulenti

About Piazza Gae Aulenti

Piazza Gae Aulenti is the main square in Milan’s most modern neighbourhood. It is named after Italian female architect Gae Aulenti. Set 6 metres (20 feet) above street level, the square surrounds a 60 metre wide reflecting pool which cascades down two floors. The square is a vibrant space that attracts crowds.

Why visit Piazza Gae Aulenti

Piazza Gae Aulenti is the focal point of the Porta Nuova Garibaldi development. It is a modern square surrounded by skyscrapers. It is particularly beautiful at night with light and water shows.

How long to spend at Piazza Gae Aulenti

The square is a nice place to spend half an hour to an hour.

Opening hours for Piazza Gae Aulenti

This free thing to do in Milan Italy is open at all hours.

If you have money to spend at Piazza Gae Aulenti

There are plenty of shops and restaurants around Piazza Gae Aulenti.

Piazza Gae Aulenti address

Piazza Gae Aulenti, 1785, 20124 Milano MI, Italy

Plus Code: F5MQ+CQ Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Green buildings in Milan Italy: Bosco Verticale

About Bosco Verticale

Bosco Verticale (or Vertical Forest in English) is an award winning pair of residential buildings in Milan Italy. They are named the vertical forest as they are covered in more than 900 trees as well as 5,000 shrubs and 1,500 perennial plants. The buildings were completed in 2014. They have heights of 111 metres and 76 metres (364 feet and 249 feet). The plants act as a carbon sink to improve air quality in the area. With more than 90 different plant species, the buildings also add to biodiversity in the area. Other benefits of the plants include temperature control, shade and reduced dust and noise pollution. Additionally the building has solar panels, filtered waste water and is self sufficient.

Why visit Bosco Verticale

Bosco Verticale are distinctive buildings that provide great photo opportunities. Those interested in architecture and sustainable design will find this building particularly fascinating.

How long to spend at Bosco Verticale

5 minutes is plenty of time to see the building and take some photos. However there’s a nice park nearby that’s a great place to stop for half an hour.

Opening hours for Bosco Verticale

This free thing to do in Milan Italy is open at all hours. However we recommend visiting during the day.

If you have money to spend near Bosco Verticale

There are some shops and restaurants nearby. Another option would be to hire a bike and cycle around the area.

Bosco Verticale address

Via Gaetano de Castillia, 11, 20124 Milano MI, Italy

Plus Code: F5PR+65 Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Church decorated with human bones in Milan Italy: Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa

About Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa

Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa is an 18th century Roman Catholic church. What makes this church unique is its adjoining ossuary. An ossuary is a building that is used as the final resting place for bones. This ossuary was built in the 13th century to store bones after the nearby cemetery ran out of space. The internal walls of the building are now almost completely covered in skulls and bones which are arranged as a rather macabre decoration. While it’s likely that most of the bones belonged to people that had died in a nearby hospital as well as prisoners and other locals, many believed the bones belonged to Christian matyrs. This lead to the faithful making pilgrimages to this church, and eventually there was the need for a larger church. The current church was built in 1776.

Why visit Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa

This free thing to do in Milan Italy is a very unusual and memorable church. The main attraction is the ossuary, which is filled with human skulls and bones.

How long to spend at Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa

5-10 minutes is sufficient time to visit the church and take a few photos.

Opening hours for Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa

Monday-Friday: 8am-6pm

Saturday: 9:30am-6pm

Sunday: Closed

If you have money to spend in Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa

The church accepts donations.

Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa address

Piazza Santo Stefano, 20122 Milano MI, Italy

Plus Code: F57W+26 Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Tallest building in Milan Italy: UniCredit Tower

About UniCredit Tower Milan Italy

UniCredit Tower is the tallest building in Milan as well as in all of Italy. Completed in 2011, the building stands 231 metres (758 feet) tall. At its top is an 84 metre (276 foot) spire which is covered in LED lights which are turned on at night. The colour of the lights are often changed according to event. For example the spire often displays the colours of the Italian flag, however during Christmas it is set to green to represent a Christmas tree.

UniCredit Tower was designed by architect César Pelli. It currently houses the largest bank in Italy – UniCredit.

Why visit UniCredit Tower Milan Italy

UniCredit Tower is an impressive modern skyscraper and a distinctive landmark in Milan. This grand skyscraper is a symbol of the modernisation of the city. It is an interesting looking building and makes for good photos. It looks particularly impressive when it lights up at night.

How long to spend at UniCredit Tower Milan Italy

Half an hour to an hour is plenty of time to look around the market.

Opening hours for UniCredit Tower Milan Italy

Monday-Friday: 8:30am-5pm

Saturday-Sunday: Closed

If you have money to spend near UniCredit Tower Milan Italy

There are some shopping centres and restaurants nearby.

UniCredit Tower Milan Italy address

Piazza Gae Aulenti, 3, 20154 Milano MI, Italy

Plus Code: F5MR+H2 Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Triumphal arch in Milan Italy: Arco della Pace

About Arco della Pace

Arco della Pace Milan Italy
Arco della Pace Milan Italy

Arco della Pace (or Arch of Peace in English) is a neoclassical triumphal arch located at the edge of Parco Sempione in Milan. The arch is 25 metres (82 feet) high and 24 metres (79 feet) wide. Construction of the arch started in 1807 under architect Luigi Cagnola. At this time Milan was under Napoleonic rule. However during the period of construction the Australian Empire took control of Milan and construction of the arch temporarily halted. The arch was finally completed in 1838. However with a change in government also came a change in design for the arch. The original plan was for the facade of the arch to include bas-reliefs depicting Napolean’s victories. However this was changed to show scenes from the Battle of Leipzig, which was Napolean’s defeat.

Why visit Arco della Pace

Arco della Pace is a beautiful structure that is reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. It provides great photo opportunities. The square around the arch is also a popular gathering spot. It’s a nice place to sit and enjoy a gelato while people watching.

How long to spend at Arco della Pace

5-10 minutes is plenty of time to see the arch and take some photos. However if you have more time this is a nice area to sit and enjoy the atmosphere.

Opening hours for Arco della Pace

This free thing to do in Milan Italy is open at all hours. However we recommend visiting during the day.

If you have money to spend near Arco della Pace

There are restaurants and shops nearby. We recommend buying a gelato and enjoy it while looking at the arch.

Arco della Pace address

Piazza Sempione, 20154 Milano MI, Italy

Plus Code: F5GC+7X Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Spacious modern urban development in Milan Italy: CityLife

About CityLife

CityLife is an urban redevelopment project that spans over 36.6 hectares. It contains 3 commercial skyscrapers, known as Il Dritto (The Straight One), Lo Storto (The Twisted One) and Il Curvo (The Curved One). Additionally there are residential complexes, retail space, public space including sprawling parklands as well as underground parking space and an underground road system. Designed using green principles, CityLife is the largest car-free area in Milan as well as one of the largest in Europe.

Why visit CityLife

CityLife is a great recreational area to visit in Milan. There’s plenty of things to do in the area. There is a large modern shopping centre, regular local outdoor markets, beautiful park areas, vibrant piazzas as well as lots of cycle paths and walking trails. Additionally there’s plenty of restaurants and eateries to choose from and also a lot of open space to relax in.

How long to spend at CityLife

You could easily spend a few hours at CityLife.

Opening hours for CityLife

Daily: 8am-11pm

If you have money to spend near CityLife

CityLife Shopping Centre is full of shops and eateries.

CityLife address

Piazza Tre Torri, 20145 Milano MI, Italy

Plus Code: F5H4+75 Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Modern skyscraper in Milan Italy: Palazzo Lombardia

About Palazzo Lombardia

Palazzo Lombardia Milan Italy, modern architecture in Italy
Palazzo Lombardia Milan Italy

Palazzo Lombardia is a modern building complex in Milan which was completed in 2010. The complex includes a 43 storey skyscraper, which has a height of 161m (528 feet). When it was built it was the tallest building in both Milan and Italy. It follows the modernism style and features a glass and steel construction. It uses environmentally friendly construction and management technology to reduce its carbon footprint. The building houses government offices and there is an observation deck on the 38th floor.

Why visit Palazzo Lombardia

This skyscraper is one of the tallest buildings in Italy. It is an impressive structure and there are panoramic views from the observation deck on the 39th floor. Those interested in modern architecture will find this free thing to do in Milan Italy particularly appealing.

How long to spend at Palazzo Lombardia

5 minutes is enough time to admire the building from below and take a few photos. There is an observation deck on the 39th floor of the building called Terrazza Belvedere dal Palazzo Regione Lombardia. Entry to the observation deck is free between 10am and 6pm on Sundays.

Opening hours for Palazzo Lombardia

Monday-Friday: 9:30am-12:30pm, 2:30pm-4:30pm

Saturday-Sunday: Closed

If you have money to spend near Palazzo Lombardia

There are shops and restaurants nearby.

Palazzo Lombardia address

Piazza Città di Lombardia, 1, 20124 Milano MI, Italy

Plus Code: F5PW+MC Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy

Train to Milan Italy

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Trains are a cheap and efficient way to get to Milan Italy. Currently Milan has 23 stations in use. The main train station in Milan is Milano Centrale railway station.

We recommend using the app and website TrainLine to book intercity train tickets in Italy. This is the app we used. We found it very easy to use with great functionality. Another great feature is that you can see days ahead to see what times of the day were the cheapest rates.

Where to stay in Milan Italy

We recommend the following accommodation in Milan Italy:

  • Best hostel in Milan Italy – Ostello Bello Grande is a clean, comfortable and social hostel right next to the train station. They have nice extras like free welcome drinks and free food in the kitchen. The breakfasts are also very nice. There is a nice rooftop area and the staff are very friendly.
  • Best B&B in Milan Italy – Moscova Luxury B&B has nicely decorated and spacious accommodation close to the city centre. It has excellent amenities, comfortable beds and has a well-stocked fridge.
  • Best 3 star hotel in Milan Italy – Bronzino House provides clean and peaceful accommodation with wonderfully hospitable hosts. The breakfasts are lovely. It is in a convenient location close to the heart of Milan.
  • Best 4 star hotel in Milan Italy – The Street Milano Duomo | a Design Boutique Hotel is a charming property with beautifully designed rooms. The staff are friendly and professional and the location is ideal.
  • Best 5 star hotel in Milan Italy – Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa Milano is a superb hotel with great spa facilities and amazing service. The beds are extremely comfortable, the suites are opulent, clean and well-equipped and it is close to many of the city’s attractions.
  • Best aparthotel in Milan Italy – Prestige Boutique Aparthotel -Piazza Duomo provides clean and well-appointed accommodation right in the heart of Milan. The beds are extremely comfortable with a choice of pillows. The staff are friendly and helpful.

Milan Italy Blogs

For more information on Milan, check out our Milan Destination Guide.

Italy Blogs

You can find our Italy travel blogs below.

Throwing Confetti during Carnival at Piazza Unità d'Italia Trieste Italy

19 Best FREE Things To Do in Trieste Italy (with map)

Just across the border from Slovenia, the port city of Trieste is the perfect stopover when travelling between Italy and ...
Grand Canal from Ponte dell'Accademia Venice Italy

14 Best FREE Things To Do in Venice Italy (with map)

Venice is one of the ultimate bucket list destinations! Photos don’t truly do this beautiful city justice and you really ...
Ponte di Castelvecchio Pedestrian Walkway Verona Italiy

15 Best FREE Things To Do in Verona Italy (with map)

Verona is a city of romance and history. Set on the Adige River, it is a beautiful city filled with ...
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II Milan Italy

17 Best FREE Things To Do in Milan Italy (with map)

The cosmopolitan city of Milan is the perfect blend of old and new. In this vibrant Italian city, towering modern ...
Vascello Neptune Old Port Genoa Italy, old fashioned sailboat with statue of King Nepture on bow, pedestrian walkway with people jogging, advertisement for McDonald's in background

15 Best FREE Things To Do in Genoa Italy (with map)

The Italian port city of Genoa (Genova) is a city with a rich maritime history. It was once one of ...
Market at Piazza Colombo Sanremo Italy, sunny Italian courtyard filled with people shopping at open air market

12 Best FREE Things To Do in Sanremo Italy (with map)

Sanremo is the perfect first stop in Italy. Just across the border from Spain, this charming seaside town has a ...
Trieste Italy

Trieste Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

The port city of Trieste is a popular stopover when travelling between Central Europe and Italy. Being part of the ...
Gondolas on Grand Canal Venice Italy

Venice Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Venice is a bucket list destination that you need to visit at least once in your lifetime! The network of ...
Piazza Bra Verona Italy

Verona Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

As soon as you arrive in the city of Verona you understand why this was the inspiration for Shakespeare’s Romeo ...
Courtyard infront of Duomo di Milano Italy

Milan Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

One of the great fashion capitals of the world, Milan is a must visit destination in Italy. As Italy's second ...
Fountain at Piazza De Ferrari Genoa Italy

Genoa Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Italy’s busiest port is in a city with a rich maritime history. Genoa was once the capital of the influential ...
Porto Vecchio Sanremo Italy

Sanremo Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

The ideal introduction to Italy can be found on the Italian Riviera in northern Italy. Sanremo is a popular first ...
Carnival Piazza San Marco Venice Italy

14 Most Surprising Things About Visiting Italy!

Italy has been on our travel bucket list forever. After all, it is the birthplace of pizza, pasta and gelato! ...

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