33 Photos that Will Make You Want to Visit Milan

Not sure why you should add Milan to your itinerary in Italy? Let me show you Milan in photos, and inspire you to visit the Italian fashion capital.

Well known as one of the world’s fashion capitals and a longstanding business hub in Europe, there still are only a limited number of foreign tourists who visit Milan, particularly if it’s their first trip to Italy.

The land of “La Dolce Vita” is one of the most fantasized destinations in the world, but while Rome, Florence, Venice, the Cinque Terre, and the Amalfi Coast captivate everyone’s imagination, Milan is hardly on the radar.

Even when I suggest to friends to come and visit Milan, and discover my city, they often pull a face, unless they’re keen to go shopping. In a way, I understand. As some of you know, although I was born in Italy I grew up in a small mountain village in Switzerland and I came back to Milan when I was 18.

Showing you the beauty of Milan in photos

It took me a long time to get used to city life, and even longer to appreciate Milan. I did what most people do. I compared it to Venice, Rome, Florence, and other European cities like Barcelona, Paris, and London. It didn’t make any sense, but it took me a while before I discovered Milan’s unique charm.

There are many reasons to visit Milan. One of them is that it’s the capital city of the Lombardy region, an area of extreme beauty too often overlooked. Also, Milan enjoys a privileged geographical location. Thus, there are plenty of exciting day trips you can have from Milan. Whether it’s romantic Lake Como, a little gem like Bergamo, or the mountains, you’ll be amazed by how much beauty surrounds Milan.

That’s why I decided to show you Milan in photos, sharing the spots I love, the ones that make my city worth a visit. 

Related: Where to stay in Milan – How to find the right hotel and neighborhood

The iconic Milan cathedral, and its surroundings

The capital of Lombardy – a beautiful, if overlooked Italian region – is not immediately eye-catching. It has many hidden treasures, though, but you have to know where to go and what to look for. There’s more than meets the eye, but you must be willing to let the city unveil its beauty.

The cathedral (Duomo di Milano) is, without a doubt, the most famous and iconic landmark. If you only have a few hours to spend in Milan, this is THE place to go. And a must-do in Milan is to visit the cathedral and walk on the Duomo rooftop, possibly closer to sunset time.

I have seen it more times than I can remember, but every time I get there, the beauty of Milan’s cathedral takes my breath away. With its unique shape, countless statues, and iridescent shades of marble, the Duomo is one of the most striking buildings in the city. The architecture inside is as magnificent, and the darkness makes a sharp contrast with the glittering white facade. From the rooftop, you can get close-up views of the spires and pinnacles and, on a bright day, you can even get a glimpse of the alps.

Lined by magnificent buildings and elegant arcades, Piazza del Duomo is one of the most beautiful squares in Italy. There’s always something going on: special events or street performers, and it’s an excellent spot for people-watching.

Adjacent to the cathedral is Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. With its cast-iron and vaulted glass roof, it hosts many famous luxury brands. The passageway connects Piazza del Duomo to La Scala, one of the most prestigious Opera houses in the world.

San Lorenzo-Ticinese, and its lively vibe

Ancient Roman columns, a beautiful basilica, a small park, and a myriad of shops and trendy cafés make San Lorenzo-Ticinese one of the city’s liveliest areas. It is also one of my favorites.

In this neighborhood, you’ll also see some colorful and beautiful graffiti, on the walls and the shutters of many shops.

 

While you visit Milan, you can’t miss a stroll and a drink along the Navigli, the two canals lined by countless bars and restaurants.

Brera, pretty cobblestones alleys, and antique shops

Another nice neighborhood to have a stroll in Milan is the Brera district. The beautiful Palazzo Brera, with its elegant courtyard, host the Accademia di Brera, one of the most significant museums in Milan.

It’s one of the wealthiest areas of the city, punctuated by magnificent buildings and opulent antique shops.

Parco Sempione and the Arch of Peace

A majestic arch, a pretty park, and, in perfect symmetry on the opposite side, the Sforza castle.

The area around Parco Sempione has many beautiful buildings, and the park is a perfect spot to relax sitting on the grass, or on one of the many benches dotting the alleys. People playing football, hikers, and runners, families with kids, couples tenderly kissing. Apart from tourists, you can see a lot of local life here.

Related: Beautiful day trips from Milan you shouldn’t miss

Milan architecture, and its hidden beauty

Another point of interest in Milan is the newly built Porta Nuova district, with its modern skyscrapers. Here you can see the Unicredit Tower, the Diamond Tower, and Bosco Verticale, the residential buildings housing trees on their balconies that won prestigious international awards.

Nearby, the recently refurbished Central Station is now back to its ancient splendor and magnificence.

And then, there are gems you don’t expect, like the Stock Exchange, with the controversial L.O.V.E. sculpture by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan.

Or Piazza Sant’Alessandro, a charming little square bordered by magnificent baroque palaces. You’ll walk by churches looking unassuming from the outside, housing impressive frescoes, and if you glance inside historical buildings, you’ll spot charming courtyards.

So yes, Milan might not be unique as Venice, nor does the city boast as many ancient monuments as Florence or Rome. But it is indeed worth visiting Milan and spending a few days in a city that has a lot to offer. I hope that showing you Milan in photos made you feel at least a bit about why it’s a beautiful city. 

Some of the best-guided tours in Milan

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