Exploring Milan on foot: the ultimate guide to a walking tour of the city
Milan is a city with a rich history and culture, making it a great destination for a walking tour. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor from out of town, exploring Milan on foot is a great way to discover all that the city has to offer. In this ultimate guide, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know for a memorable walking tour of Milan.
Before you begin your walking tour, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the layout of the city and some of the key landmarks and neighborhoods. Milan is divided into several districts, each with its own distinct character and attractions.
The Brera district
One of the most iconic neighborhoods in Milan is the Brera district, known for its art galleries, boutiques, and cafés. Located in the heart of the city, Brera is home to the Brera Art Gallery, which boasts a collection of paintings and sculptures by some of the most famous artists in the world, including Leonardo da Vinci and Caravaggio.
Photo by: wheremilan.com
The Navigli district
The Navigli district is another must-see neighborhood on your walking tour of Milan. Located in the southern part of the city, Navigli is known for its canals and is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and nightlife. The Navigli district is home to a number of markets and fairs, including the Navigli Antique Market, where you can find a wide variety of antiques and vintage items.
The Duomo
No visit to Milan is complete without a stop at the Duomo, the city’s iconic cathedral. Located in the center of the city, the Duomo is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and is the largest cathedral in Italy. Climb to the top of the Duomo for stunning views of the city, or visit the museum inside to learn about the history of the cathedral and see some of its treasures, including a bronze statue of St. Bartholomew by Michelangelo.
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
After exploring the Duomo, make your way to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an elegant shopping arcade located just steps from the cathedral. The Galleria is home to some of the most prestigious shops and restaurants in Milan, and is a great place to take a break and people-watch.
The Porta Venezia
Another must-see neighborhood on your walking tour of Milan is the trendy and bohemian neighborhood of Porta Venezia. Located in the north of the city, Porta Venezia is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a number of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. During the day, the neighborhood is a great place to shop, with a number of independent boutiques and vintage stores to explore.
Photo by: eurohotelmilano.it
The Castello Sforzesco
As you continue your walking tour of Milan, be sure to visit the Castello Sforzesco, a castle that was once the home of the Sforza family, one of the most powerful families in Milan during the Renaissance. Today, the castle is home to a number of museums, including the Museum of Ancient Art, which houses a collection of Renaissance paintings, sculptures, and artifacts.
The La Scala opera house
No trip to Milan is complete without a visit to the iconic La Scala opera house. Located in the center of the city, La Scala is one of the most famous opera houses in the world and has hosted performances by some of the greatest opera singers in history. If you’re not able to catch a performance during your visit, you can still tour the opera house and see the stunning interior, including the grand auditorium and the Royal Box.
After a long day of exploring Milan on foot, take a break and relax in one of the city’s beautiful parks. The Parco Sempione, located just northwest
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