Milan is a beautiful city with so much to see and do. If you’re looking for some free fun activities to do while you’re in Milan, then look no further! From admiring the Duomo di Milano to exploring the Brera district, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this amazing city without spending a fortune. Check out our list of the best free activities to do in Milan, Italy!
1. Admire the Duomo di Milano
The Duomo di Milano is one of the most impressive churches in all of Italy. Located in the heart of Milan, the Duomo is a true masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
The exterior is covered in white marble, and the interior is filled with intricate sculptures and stained glass windows. The Duomo is also home to the famous statue of il Dio Pan, which watches over the city from atop the church’s highest tower.
A visit to the Duomo is a must for any traveler to Milan. The church is simply breathtaking, and its history and beauty are sure to leave you in awe.
Address: P.za del Duomo, 20122 Milano MI, Italy
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2. Take a Stroll in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Milan, Italy. And it’s no wonder why! This free fun activity offers something for everyone, from shopping and dining to art and history.
The Galleria is home to some of the most famous shops in the world, including Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton. Hungry shoppers can take a break at one of the many restaurants or cafes, or enjoy a gelato while people watching.
The stunning glass dome and intricate mosaics are worth a visit in themselves, and the roof provides breathtaking views of Milan. Whether you’re looking for a place to shop till you drop or simply want to soak up some local culture, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is the perfect destination.
Address: P.za del Duomo, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
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3. Visit Sforza Castle
Sforza Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Milan, Italy. Built-in the 15th century, it was once the home of the powerful Sforza family. Today, it houses a number of museums and art galleries, as well as a beautiful park. Best of all, admission to the castle is free!
Wandering through the imposing halls and chambers of the castle, you can imagine what life was like for the noble families who once lived here. Be sure to visit the Museum of Ancient Arms, where you can see a collection of weaponry dating back to the Middle Ages.
After exploring the castle, take a stroll through the park. With its sprawling lawns and towering trees, it’s easy to forget that you’re in the heart of a busy city.
Address: Piazza Castello, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
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4. Shop at the Quadrilatero d’Oro
The Quadrilatero d’Oro, or “Golden Rectangle,” is a shoppers’ paradise in the center of Milan, Italy. This pedestrian-only area is home to some of the world’s most prestigious fashion brands, including Prada, Gucci, and Dolce & Gabbana.
Even if you’re not in the market for designer goods, it’s worth spending an afternoon browsing the high-end shops and people-watching. Best of all, it’s a free activity – so you can window shop to your heart’s content without breaking the bank.
Address: 20121 Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy
5. Have Fun at Parco Sempione
Parco Sempione is a beautiful park in the heart of Milan, Italy. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including strolling through the manicured gardens, picnicking on the grass, or exploring the castle grounds.
The park also features a number of sculptures and monuments, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. On warm days, the park is filled with locals and tourists alike, enjoying the sunny weather and beautiful scenery.
Address: Piazza Sempione, 20154 Milano MI, Italy
6. Discover Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper
One of the most famous paintings in the world is Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper. This iconic work of art can be found in the refectory of the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, Italy.
The painting depicts the moment when Jesus announced that one of his disciples would betray him. Leonardo da Vinci painted the Last Supper between 1495 and 1498, and it remains one of his most celebrated works.
Today, the painting is open to the public, and visitors can see firsthand Leonardo da Vinci’s brilliant brushwork and attention to detail. If you’re planning a trip to Italy, add a visit to see the Last Supper to your itinerary.
Address: Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
7. Explore the Brera District
With its charming cobbled streets and quaint cafes, the Brera district is one of the most romantic areas of Milan. Located just north of the city center, Brera is home to a number of free activities, including the Brera Art Gallery, making it the perfect place to spend a day exploring.
Visitors can wander through the narrow alleyways, stopping to admire the beautiful architecture or browse the shops selling everything from handmade jewelry to vintage clothes. When hunger strikes, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes serving up delicious Italian cuisine.
In the evening, the district comes alive with locals and tourists alike enjoying a leisurely aperitivo in one of the many bars. With its laid-back atmosphere and old-world charm, the Brera district is a must-see when visiting Milan.
8. Climb to the Top of the Duomo di Milano
For a fun activity while in Milan, be sure to climb to the top of the Duomo di Milano! The cathedral is the fifth largest in the world and the largest in Italy.
You can take an elevator part of the way up, but the last stretch is via stairs only. Although it may sound daunting, it is definitely worth it for the breathtaking views at the top. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Alps!
Be sure to bring your camera to capture the incredible views. You can also walk around on the rooftop and get up close to all the statues and gargoyles. Climbing to the top of Duomo di Milano is a fun activity for all ages!
Address: P.za del Duomo, 20122 Milano MI, Italy
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
9. Take a Boat Ride on Navigli
Taking a boat ride on the Navigli is a great way to see Milan from a different perspective. The Navigli is a series of canals that criss-cross the city, and they provide an ideal way to get around on a warm day.
There are a number of boat companies that offer rides on the Navigli, and most of them provide commentary in multiple languages. Taking a boat ride is a great way to learn about the history of the city, as well as to see some of its most iconic landmarks.
The Navigli is also a great place to people watch, and it’s not uncommon to see locals taking a dip in the canals on a hot day. Whether you’re looking for transportation or entertainment, taking a boat ride on the Navigli is sure to be a fun experience.
10. Visit Villa Necchi Campiglio
In the heart of Milan, Italy sits the beautiful Villa Necchi Campiglio. This elegant property was built in the 1930s and is now open to the public as a museum. Visitors can tour the lavish home and grounds, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the wealthy during that time period.
The villa also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Italian culture and history. Whether you’re looking to spend a day exploring or attending a special event, Villa Necchi Campiglio is sure to delight you.
Address: Via Mozart, 14, 20122 Milano MI, Italy
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
11. Go for a Walk in Parco delle Cave
If you’re looking for a breathtaking place to go for a walk, look no further than the Parco delle Cave in Milan, Italy. This stunning park is located within a former quarry and features imposing cliffs, tranquil lakes, and lush vegetation.
Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, there’s something for everyone in the Parco delle Cave. And when you’re done exploring the park, be sure to check out the nearby museum, which offers an enlightening look at the history of the quarry.
Address: 20153 Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
12. Shop at the Borse di Milano
The Borse di Milano is a bustling marketplace located in the heart of Milan, Italy. It is the largest stock exchange in Italy and one of the oldest in Europe.
The Borse di Milano is home to many different businesses, from banks and insurance companies to fashion houses and furniture stores. Visitors to the market can find anything they need, from fresh produce and handmade goods to designer clothing and luxury watches.
The Borse di Milano is also a great place to people watch, as it is always full of locals and tourists alike. Whether you are looking for a unique gift, a new outfit, or simply a place to take in the sights and sounds of Milan, the Borse di Milano is sure to disappoint.
In Conclusion
There are plenty of fun activities to do in Milan, Italy. From exploring iconic landmarks to shopping at bustling markets, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So whether you’re looking for a day of adventure or a relaxing afternoon, be sure to check out these twelve fun things to do in Milan.
