Guide of Milan for Newbies

Duomo

The Cathedral of Milan, or Duomo, is the undisputed symbol of Milan. This impressive Gothic cathedral, characterized by an intricate facade with numerous spires and statues, dominates the city’s main square and is one of the largest religious buildings in the world. You can climb to the terrace to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery

Located next to the Duomo, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a fascinating iron and glass structure that houses high-end fashion shops, historic cafes, and restaurants. Walking through the Gallery is like taking a dip in the luxury and beauty of Italian architecture.

Teatro alla Scala

Teatro alla Scala is the ultimate temple of classical music, known worldwide for its exceptional acoustics and spectacular productions. This prestigious theater has been at home to numerous musical talents over the centuries. If you have the chance, don’t miss the opportunity to attend a show or a guided tour behind the scenes.

Sforza Castle

This imposing castle, dating back to the fifteenth century, was the residence of the powerful Sforza family. Today it houses several museums and art galleries, including the Museum of Ancient Art and the Pinacoteca of the Castello Sforzesco.

Brera neighborhood

The Brera neighborhood is known for its bohemian atmosphere, cobblestone streets, artistic shops, historic cafes, and trendy boutiques. Art lovers cannot miss a visit to the Pinacoteca di Brera, which houses a rich collection of Italian and European art. Among the masterpieces present are works by artists such as Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian.

Art and Culture

The city is a paradise for lovers of art, music, theater and all forms of creative expression. Milan is characterized by a rich calendar of events, festivals and cultural events that take place throughout the year and that celebrate creativity in all its nuances, making it a reference point for emerging and experimental artists from all over the world.
There are also numerous cultural centers, such as the Fondazione Prada and the PAC (Contemporary Art Pavilion), which host exhibitions and cultural events of great relevance.
But the beating heart of the Milanese art scene is represented by its numerous museums and art galleries. Like the famous Museo del Novecento, located in Piazza del Duomo, which houses a vast collection of 20th century art, including masterpieces by Modigliani, Boccioni and Balla.
There are numerous theaters and concert halls, which offer theatrical productions, concerts and artistic performances. Major theaters include the Piccolo Teatro di Milano, which offers a wide range of theatrical performances, and the Teatro degli Arcimboldi, a modern space dedicated to opera, concerts and musicals.

Architecture

The architecture of Milan ranges from gothic to modern, testifying to the transformation and evolution of the city over the centuries.
Especially in the 20th century, Milan established itself as an important center of modern architecture and design. An emblematic example is the Porta Nuova district, a symbol of contemporary architecture, with its futuristic towers and avant-garde design buildings. The Pirellone, officially known as Palazzo Pirelli, with its 127 meters in height and a structure characterized by clean lines and glass, is one of the most recognizable symbols of the city’s imposing skyline. This skyscraper was designed by the famous architect Giò Ponti and opened in 1960. In Porta Nuova is also located the elegant and slender Torre Unicredit, 231 meters high, which dominates the urban panorama. And the Bosco Verticale, an avant-garde architectural work that offers a harmonious fusion of nature and urbanization. Designed by architect Stefano Boeri and completed in 2014, this innovative project has captured the attention of the whole world for its beauty and its environmental sustainability.

Fashion and Design

Since the beginning of the 20th century, Milan has played a fundamental role in the fashion industry. Internationally renowned fashion houses such as Armani, Versace, Prada, and Dolce & Gabbana are based here and have contributed to consolidating Milan’s reputation as a center of excellence in fashion. Every year, the city hosts Milan Fashion Week, one of the most important events in the industry, where designers, models, and fashion enthusiasts from all over the world gather to present the latest collections and establish future fashion trends.

MILANO MODA DONNA Photo: Paolo Lanzi/Launchmetrics.com/spotlight

But Milan is not just about fashion. The city is also a hub of talent in the field of design. Art and design are an integral part of Milan’s culture, and its streets are dotted with innovative architectural works and unique creative spaces. Milan hosts the Salone del Mobile, one of the most prestigious design fairs in the world, with cutting-edge creations.
The influence of Milanese design extends beyond the boundaries of fashion and furniture. The city is a vibrant center for innovation and the creative industry in general. Museums dedicated to design, such as the Triennale Design Museum and the Triennale Design Museum of Milan, offer a complete overview of the history and evolution of Italian and international design.

Gastronomy

The gastronomy in Milan is truly a spectacle for the senses. From traditional dishes to the most innovative proposals, the city offers an exceptional culinary experience that will satisfy even the most demanding palates. So, don’t miss the opportunity to explore Milan’s gastronomic scene and let yourself be conquered by its unique flavors.
Read our food and wine guide to Milan.

Leggete la nostra guida eno-gastronomica di Milano

Movida

When the sun goes down, the city transforms and the famous “Milanese movida” comes to life, an explosion of energy, fun and nightlife that spreads through its streets and squares. The Milanese movida is a fusion of culture, trends and lifestyles that attracts young people and adults from all backgrounds. From trendy cocktail bars to underground clubs, from the most refined restaurants to fashionable wine bars, there is something for every taste and preference. The evening usually starts with an aperitif in one of the many trendy venues scattered throughout the city. Aperitifs in Milan are an institution, the perfect opportunity to socialize with friends, relax after a long day at work and immerse yourself in the Milanese atmosphere. After the aperitif, the choice of entertainment is endless. Milan’s clubs host some of the best DJs and international artists, offering nights of endless music and dancing. These are places where fashion mixes with music and people dance until the early hours of the morning. The more adventurous can choose to explore the underground event scene, where you can discover performances by emerging artists, unconventional theatre performances and artistic installations. Along the banks of the Navigli, a system of canals fed by the Ticino river, there are numerous bars, restaurants and cafes that come to life especially at night, offering a wide range of traditional and international cuisine.

Sport

For sports lovers, one of the main attractions is the historic San Siro Stadium, home to Milan’s two great football clubs, Inter and Milan. Admire the atmosphere and energy during a match or, if there are no sporting events in progress, take a tour to discover the secrets and history of this legendary stadium.