Milan is many things. From its inception in the mists of pre-Roman Italy to its position as a financial and business hub, the capital of Lombardy has long made its mark on the wider world. Milan means something to everyone. Whether you are obsessed with fashion, up to date with the stock market, mad about art and architecture or just really into football, Italy’s second city awaits.

Since the ‘Risorgimento’, the movement that saw Italy unify in the mid 19th century, Milan has strived to maintain a position as the industrial heart of the country. The glory of the city though dates back much further than this, and in typical Italian style the old city is awash with great architectural feats. The Milan Cathedral (or Duomo) is staggering in both beauty and scope. Having taken nearly 600 years to finish it is now the second largest church in Europe. From the archaeological site below it to the glorious views from the roof, the hours spent exploring the cathedral will certainly be among the highlights of your trip.

If you’d prefer to mix your architecture with a little shopping then Milan has you covered, quite literally, by the impressive Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Italy’s oldest functioning shopping arcade is almost as famous for its architecture and huge glass ceiling as it is for the designer shops and restaurants found beneath it.

To many, Milan is synonymous with fashion, and with a long history of both textile manufacturing and high-end design it is no wonder that most of Italy’s world famous labels call it home. Armani, Dolce and Gabbana, Versace and Prada are all based here so if you’ve spent your life dreaming of buying that designer piece, Milan might just be the place that pushes you over the edge. Luckily, all major credit cards are accepted. You may however just prefer to appreciate high fashion from afar, in which case plan your visit for February or September when the city is alive with fashion’s biggest movers and shakers for the world famous, twice yearly Milan Fashion Week.

For beauty of a different kind, a trip to Milan wouldn’t be complete without taking the time to visit Leonardo Da Vinci’s  “Last Supper’. Housed within the Santa Maria Delle Grazie, a church and convent which is itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the breath-taking work has adorned the walls since Da Vinci completed the work at the end of the 15th century. A visit here does take some pre planning as tickets need to be booked in advance, but the chance to see such a masterpiece in its original location is well worth the effort.  

Another great draw of the city is the Sforza Castle. Once one of the world’s largest defensive structures, the castle is now home to no less than 9 museums. Everything from musical instruments to ancient Egypt are covered on the site, which is also home to beautiful and expansive gardens. This 14th century fortress houses so much that even as recently as 2012 historians found over 100 sketches by Caravaggio in the archives that no one knew existed.  High culture of another kind awaits at the world famous La Scala, one of Europe’s leading opera houses. Dating back to 1778, many of the 19th century’s most famous operas had their opening nights here. The chance to add your own name to the long list of notable attendees through the ages should not be missed.

With art and culture covered, food should be high on the list of any visitor to Milan, and you will not be disappointed. Less reliant on pizza and pasta than cities further south in Italy, the Lombardy region serves as a true melting pot of European cuisine. The food here is heartier than elsewhere in the country due to the weather, but that doesn’t mean that delicacies aren’t abundant. Risottos, soups and stews are all regulars on the menu, and in the winter months you’d be remiss to not treat yourself to that Milanese favourite -Panettoni.  Great food is easy to find in Milan, but don’t take our word for it. Try any one of the 20 Michelin Star restaurants within the city for a dining experience you’ll never forget.

 

Milan is unique amongst Italian cities. Throughout its long history it has been Roman, Celtic, French, Austrian, Spainish and Italian to name but a few. It is closer to Switzerland than to Rome and often seen as more European than cities further south in the country. It is a vibrant place; one that prides itself on being dynamic. These are all matters of opinion, and you’re not really going to know whether you agree until you come and see for yourself. So whether you are here for the culture, the fashion, the food or even if you are just passing through on your way to the majestic Alps or breath-taking Lake Como, Milan awaits. We can’t wait to show you round.

What are the Best Things to See and Do in Milan, Italy?

Immerse yourself in Milan’s remarkable culture as you explore its awe-inspiring streets and gaze upon its elegant architecture. Whether you’re visiting Milan for the first time or looking to learn more about the city’s landmarks, our local guides will take you on an unforgettable adventure.

See everything Milan has to offer in a single day on our Milan in a Day Tour (6 hours), where you’ll walk across the city and visit all the major sites as well as hidden gems often missed by visitors. See the Sistine Chapel of Milan and enjoy skip-the-line access to Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper masterpiece among other wonders.

Visit Milan, Italy Tourist Attractions on a Fat Tire Tours Segway Tour

Our Segway tours allow you to quickly cover ground so you can spend more time visiting each location. 

Spend the day gliding through the city on our Milan Day Segway Tour (3 hours), where you’ll hit the highlights such as Sempione Park, Arch of Peace, and Sforza Castle. You can also avoid the crowds and enjoy the city lights with our Milan Segway Night Tour (2.5 hours), which includes visits to iconic sites such as Leonardo da Vinci’s canal lack at San Marco, Corso Como, and Piazza Gae Aulenti among others.

When booking a Fat Tire Tours Milan tour, you’re also getting:

• A guided tour led by English-speaking locals knowledgeable about Milan’s history and quirks
• A fun, safe and adventurous way to sightsee in Milan
• Different time options that cater to your travel schedule
• Comfortable group sizes

Other Must-See Attractions in Milan, Italy

We also offer tours catered to specific interests, such as:

• Spend the day tasting some of the best Italian cuisine in the city on our Milan Food Tour (3 hours), where you’ll get to meet local vendors and indulge on food such as lasagna, Milan-style meatballs, and gelato.
• Enjoy a Milan Wine Tasting (1 hour) where a professional sommelier will guide you through red, white, and sparkling Italian wines while you also enjoy food pairings to complement your experience.
• Skip the line and come see Milan’s main attraction on our Cathedral, Underground & Rooftop Terrace Tour ( 2.5 hours), where you’ll learn about the iconic gothic cathedral and the stunning works inside.
  
  

Download a free bike lane and cycle path map of Milan!

Click below to download your own map of Milan cycle lanes! Although we don't currently offer bike tours in Milan, you are welcome to use the map below to plan your own itinerary.