The Gothic inspired skyline of Milan is synonymous with industry, fashion and the Italian Stock Exchange. But along with the more modern trappings of technology, wealth and power, the city is also awash with an underlying vein of art, history and culture.
As well as the more high-profile cultural icons of the city – like Da Vinci’s Last Supper and the pink Candoglia marble façade of the Duomo – there are a host of smaller, quirky museums and attractions that are well worth a look.
Ulrico Hoepli Civic Planetarium
This wonderful place is the largest planetarium in Italy and is located within the lovely Porta Venezia gardens. Its 20-metre dome curves above your head as you lean back on the old fashioned 1930s barber style chairs and gaze transfixed at the projections of the night sky, with its stars, planets and constellations. The planetarium is a truly enchanting place to visit and is always a great hit with children or as a romantic excursion for couples.
The Interactive Museum of Cinema
For the avid film buff this place is an absolute treasure trove of discovery, and for everyone else it’s the perfect place to become a film buff! Situated in an old tobacco factory, the museum has a collection of over 20,000 films, 100,000 still images and 15,000 posters. You can also see a host of displays depicting the advances in technology within the film industry. As the name suggests, many of the exhibits are interactive, allowing visitors a hands-on insight into the fascinating world of film.
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Milan’s Tram Restaurants
If you fancy a delicious meal in a very unique location, how about all over the city? This unusual way to dine is a lot of fun and you’ll get to see some parts of the city you may not otherwise get to. Seating just 24 for each dinner, the ATMosfera trams trundle around Milan’s streets as you dine on a three course set menu accompanied by wine. You’ll have to book in advance, as this attraction is very popular with tourists.
The Bone Church
With an interior adorned with the remains of countless human bones, this eerie 13th century chapel is set within the San Bernardino alle Ossa church, in the heart of the city. It’s not everyone’s idea of a fun day out, but it’s free and the novelty factor is pretty high.
As well as enjoying the major, iconic sights of Milan, go slightly more off-the-beaten-path and seek out these and other lesser-known attractions.
How to Get to Milan
As the second most populated of Italy’s cities, after Rome, Milan has excellent transport links with the rest of country and beyond. There are two main airports serving European and international destinations, and you can book one of our convenient Milan shuttles to get you to your accommodation once you land. The Italian rail network, Trenitalia, connecting Milan, Rome, Florence, Naples, Venice and other major cities is fast and cheap, and there are excellent motorways linking Milan to the rest of the country.
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Where to Stay
Esco Hotel Milano – Conveniently situated in the centre of Milan, the Esco Hotel Milano is 150 metres from the train station and just a short walk to Corso Buenes Aires. Rooms are classically decorated and feature flat screen TVs, private bathrooms, hair dryers and free toiletries. There is an onsite bar and an Italian breakfast is served daily.
Hotel Cavour – Just 15 minutes’ walk from Milan Cathedral and 1km from the Expo site, the Hotel Cavour provides spacious accommodation in a convenient central location. Rooms feature LCD TVs, Wi-Fi and air-conditioning and hypoallergenic rooms are also available. The hotel features excellent buffet breakfasts and an onsite restaurant.
Park Hyatt Milano – The sophisticated Park Hyatt Milano offers luxury accommodation in the heart of Milan’s fashion district. The stylishly appointed spacious rooms feature marble bathrooms and some have terraces with stunning views over the city. The hotel has an onsite spa and gym, two lounge bars, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. You can explore Milan in style from the Park Hyatt Milano.
