In the heart of Milan, the sober facade of La Scala hides an opulent interior. This legendary stage has hosted elite opera and ballet performers since 1778. Its iconic red velvet boxes, grand auditorium, and massive chandelier define world-class performance. Visit the attached museum to view historic costumes and paintings from its storied past.
Connecting Piazza del Duomo and Teatro alla Scala, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a triumph of 19th-century engineering. Its iron and glass dome towers 47 meters above luxury shops and classic restaurants. Marvel at the intricate floor mosaics and neoclassical facades that define this iconic Milan landmark.
Located in the heart of Milan, the Milan Cathedral is a massive Gothic structure known for its scale and detailed marble carvings. Explore the majestic interior, vibrant stained glass, a historic crypt, and a relic of the True Cross. The rooftop offers expansive city and Alpine views, while the Duomo Museum provides architectural context.
This 14th-century medieval gate with Ghibelline crenellated towers, Ticinese Gate, marks the symbolic entry to the Navigli neighborhood. Access is free at any hour. It is best visited in combination with the nearby Colonne di San Lorenzo (Columns of Saint Lawrence) and the Basilica di Sant'Eustorgio (Basilica of Saint Eustorgius).
The Scaliger Castle defines the skyline of Sirmione. This medieval fortress guards the only entrance to the historic town. As a rare example of a lakeside fortification with its own enclosed harbor, it offers a glimpse into 13th-century Italy. Climb the keep for panoramic views over the peninsula and the blue waters of Lake Garda.
The Sacro Monte di Varese is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a historic pilgrimage route in Italy. A 1.2-mile paved path winds through a natural park, featuring fourteen Baroque chapels filled with striking statues and frescoes. The climb ends at the medieval village of Santa Maria del Monte, offering sweeping views of the surrounding lake district.
Often called the Versailles of Milan, the Estense Palace is a lavish 18th-century baroque residence serving as the Varese city hall. While the interior is closed to visitors, the real draw is the Giardini Estensi (Estense Gardens). These public Italian-style gardens offer a quiet escape with floral parterres, fountains, and grand sightlines throughout the city center.
As an opera fan, and especially of Maria Callas, the La Scala theater in Milan was one of the places I dreamed about most. I was not disappointed! I got chills just thinking about all the legends who…
As an opera fan, and especially of Maria Callas, the La Scala theater in Milan was one of the places I dreamed about most. I was not disappointed! I got chills just thinking about all the legends who have sung here. The auditorium itself is really very elegant, with its gilding and red boxes.
The Ticinese Gate is one of the historic entrances to the city. It is well preserved and makes for some pretty photos. Nearby, you can easily get to the canals and go shopping too. This part of the ci…
The Ticinese Gate is one of the historic entrances to the city. It is well preserved and makes for some pretty photos. Nearby, you can easily get to the canals and go shopping too. This part of the city is very lively, and there is always a crowd.
A must-see in Milan
This castle is one of the must-see spots in Milan. From the outside, the historic building is impressive and well-preserved. Inside, there are several museums that you can visit. They are very interes…
This castle is one of the must-see spots in Milan. From the outside, the historic building is impressive and well-preserved. Inside, there are several museums that you can visit. They are very interesting. I recommend planning at least half a day on site.
Simply magnificent! The beauty of the marble facade is striking. I was very impressed by the level of detail in the colonnades, the towers, and the finely carved statues. Inside, I admired the stained…
Simply magnificent! The beauty of the marble facade is striking. I was very impressed by the level of detail in the colonnades, the towers, and the finely carved statues. Inside, I admired the stained glass windows, which are very bright, the organ, and the famous statue of Saint Bartholomew. But the most memorable part is the terrace, which allows you to stroll among the spires while admiring the rooftops of the city. For an extra charge, it is possible to take an elevator. However, it does not go all the way to the top and the descent is done entirely on foot.
If you are interested in the history of the monument, the Museum of the Duomo di Milano perfectly complements the visit with model…
A true symbol of Italian opera, La Scala houses a sumptuous auditorium inside a building that looks fairly understated from the outside. I went to see a ballet, and I loved the show. Gilding, red velv…
A true symbol of Italian opera, La Scala houses a sumptuous auditorium inside a building that looks fairly understated from the outside. I went to see a ballet, and I loved the show. Gilding, red velvet, a phenomenal chandelier, exceptional acoustics, and prodigious dancers. I also visited the La Scala museum right next door, which displays old instruments, costumes, and posters. A fascinating journey into the heart of Italian performing arts.
Pro tip: discounted tickets are sold at the box office a few hours before the performance. If you do not have a ticket, guided tours are also available.
The magical architecture of this place, which reminds me a bit of the Grand Palais, truly dazzled me with its passageways and glass dome. With its luxury boutiques (Chanel, Dior, Prada...), the place…
The magical architecture of this place, which reminds me a bit of the Grand Palais, truly dazzled me with its passageways and glass dome. With its luxury boutiques (Chanel, Dior, Prada...), the place really represents Milanese fashion. Beyond window shopping, the gallery offers some very good restaurants and cafes with superb views of the Duomo square.
Don't miss the famous bull mosaic and the interesting Leonardo3 museum. To better enjoy the site, I recommend getting there early in the morning, before the stores open.
La Scala in Milan is a legendary opera house. If you want to catch a show there, I suggest booking in advance because they sell out fast. It is also possible to visit the inside of the building during…
La Scala in Milan is a legendary opera house. If you want to catch a show there, I suggest booking in advance because they sell out fast. It is also possible to visit the inside of the building during the day. Even if you cannot attend an opera, I highly recommend a tour of the interior.
The Milan Cathedral and its Duomo are absolute must-sees in the city. The building is truly superb and very impressive. Its architecture with all its details is exceptional. I recommend visiting the i…
The Milan Cathedral and its Duomo are absolute must-sees in the city. The building is truly superb and very impressive. Its architecture with all its details is exceptional. I recommend visiting the inside, which is just as sublime. You have the option to go up to the rooftops, and it is a must-do. From up there, you have a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
If you come to Milan, you absolutely have to stop by to admire this grand covered arcade. I found it much more impressive than the ones in Paris or Brussels. The buildings on either side are also supe…
If you come to Milan, you absolutely have to stop by to admire this grand covered arcade. I found it much more impressive than the ones in Paris or Brussels. The buildings on either side are also superb. Take your time to stroll through. Try to come early in the morning when it is a bit less crowded to take some nice photos.
Sacro Monte del Rosario is a path about 2 km long that you can walk freely. It is lined with fourteen small, typical chapels that you can visit along the way. At the end of the route, you arrive at th…
Sacro Monte del Rosario is a path about 2 km long that you can walk freely. It is lined with fourteen small, typical chapels that you can visit along the way. At the end of the route, you arrive at the sanctuary of Santa Maria del Monte. The path is accessible to everyone, even if you are not very athletic. I have very fond memories of it.
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