Milan
Italy
Backpacking Milan
Information on Milan, sights to see, nightlife, activities and more.
Milan is Italy’s most advanced city. An international hub for fashion, fine dining, and design, it seems as though all the locals here have style. Home to the Italian stock exchange, a world-famous fashion industry, and a frantic business district, Milan is fast-paced and economically minded which is why Milan has some of the best shopping in the world. Architecture in Milan is more modern and sleek than Italy’s other major cities. Sharply designed office buildings sit alongside ancient churches and museums. Walking the streets are a fun activity which can easily consume a day. Milan boasts several canals, and according to legend, they were designed with the help of Leonardo Da Vinci himself. When the weekend comes around, you will find the soccer fans out and ready to support their team. AC and Inter Milan, two of the most famous and accomplished teams in history, both have a stadium here and draw fans from every part of the globe. Especially on a Friday or Saturday, the spirit carries over into the city’s famous nightlife. Take a seat in one of Milan’s well-appointed eateries in the Navigli Quarter. This area is packed with restaurants, bars, and cafes. With an Aperol spritz or pizza in hand, dining alongside the city’s canals is a perfect way to cap your day roaming and sightseeing. Glamorous and exciting, Milan is different from other Italian cities. Once you have a taste of it, you might discover Milan is your favorite. .
Must See
The Duomo - The most famous building in Milan, this extravagantly designed Gothic cathedral has 135 spirals and 3200 statues. It is a pearly white architectural masterpiece that lies at the heart of Milan. Standing proud in the spacious Piazza del Duomo, this behemoth church is one of the world's largest Gothic cathedrals. Climb up its stairs or ride the elevator to its terraces, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Milan city.
Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper - The famous work of art is situated next to the Santa Maria delle Grazie church in the monk’s monastery. The Last Supper is one of the most important artworks in the world. The fresco mural depicts the moment after Christ reveals that one of his disciples will betray him.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II - is one of the most famous and one of the oldest shopping malls in the world. The massive iron-glass structure is always busy. If you plan to do some shopping in Italy’s fashion capital, you’ll find many of the top luxury brands, such as Prada, Armani and Louis Vuitton, at the Galleria. Next to the boutiques are chic cafes and restaurants offering a premium dining experience.
Must Do
Days Trip to Lake Como - Surrounded by breathtaking mountains and towns with Renaissance charm, Lake Como is the perfect day trip from Milan. The turquoise water attract locals and backpackers from all walks of life. Admire the stunning alpine scenery from the bow of the boat. In the lakeside villages, narrow cobbled streets wind their way between pastel-painted villas, vibrant gardens, small gelato shops, and historical landmarks.
Explore the Canals - Milan used to be a Medieval port, full of busy canals. The charming canal district is well worth a visit and becomes alive at night due to its many bars, restaurants and shops.
Nightlife
Top nightlife activities in Milan are a trip to a nightclub or fancy bar. Glamorous clubs are strewn all over the city, though Corso Como and Brera neighborhoods are the most popular spots to party. There are lots of good clubs near the Duomo as well.
There are other areas in Milan that are more relaxed and don’t require your top clubbing outfits. The Navigli Quarter and the Colonne di San Lorenzo area are both very famous for their nightlife with people drinking beers outside, and can be more laid back then the most popular neighborhoods above.
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