A sprawling city with a sprinkling of attractions, Milan, Italy can feel overwhelming and crowded. That’s why we created this Free, Self-Guided Milan Walking Tour!
With our outlined route, you can easily navigate your way to must-see sights, hidden corners and the creamiest gelato!
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Why Embark on a Self-Guided Milan Walking Tour
While staying in nearby (and totally underrated) Bergamo, we couldn’t resist the opportunity to take a day trip to Milan.
We had a long list of places to see and quickly realized that touring Milan on foot was quite the undertaking. The city is huge and – despite our best efforts – we struggled to complete our ambitious plan.
As we were exploring, we made some unnecessary detours and wished we had spent more time savoring iconic places.
With 20/20 hindsight, we rearranged our agenda and came up with a Milan tour that truly makes the city shine.
About Our Self-Guided, Free Milan Walking Tour
Our self-guided Milan walking tour is approximately 3.5 miles and will take 2-3 hours to complete.
The walk begins at the most famous site: Duomo di Milano. The dazzling cathedral sits in the middle of the city and public transport can easily get you there from other districts.
We end the tour at the Arco della Pace, which has convenient tram connections to destinations around the city. Plus, we share our recommendations for things to do in Milan after your walk.
For walking directions, we have provided a link to each stop. Later in the article, you can see an overview of the entire route on our Milan tour map.
Using this tour is totally free of charge – but we also have an ad-free version. You can buy it here for the price of a gelato!
What You’ll Need for your Walking Tour: Milan, Italy
We know you are eager to get started on your walk of Milan, just make sure you’re prepared with the essentials!
Durable Shoes: Wear comfortable travel shoes; I like these trainers and Kris wears trail shoes.
Quality Camera: We use a Canon Rebel; it’s a great DSLR camera for budget travelers.
Wireless Connection: For navigation, you will need connectivity. If traveling from abroad, upgrade to an international data plan, use an eSim, or invest in a Pocket WiFi device (we like GlocalMe).
Battery Boost: We never tour cities without our Anker Portable Charger.
Day Pack: Carry a travel bag that is big enough to stow your extra layers, umbrella and water bottle. Also be sure to keep it zippered to deter pickpockets!
Milan Walking Tour: Self-Guided
Okay, now that we have you properly prepared and eager to explore, let’s go discover Milan, Italy together!
#1 Milan Cathedral
MAP. The Milan Duomo – which dates to 1387, but took nearly 600 years to complete – is the shining jewel in the city’s crown.
Made of gleaming Candoglia marble, the magnificent masterpiece is simply breathtaking. We recommend taking a long, lingering moment to marvel at the sensational work of art.
The church ranks as one of the largest in the world – but it’s the intricate details that are so mesmerizing.
The exterior is adorned with thousands of statues, more than a hundred spires and dozens of gargoyles.
Stand in the center of Piazza del Duomo near the statue of Victor Emmanuel II (Italy’s first king), to take in the structure’s hulking presence.
Move to the south (your right) and a bit closer for a side view and look up to find the golden statue of the Virgin Mary. Called the Madonnina, it stands atop the Lantern Spire at a height of 356 feet.
Tradition held that no building could exceed the statue’s height, so when skyscrapers started sprouting up, replica Madonninas were placed on their rooftops.
From this vantage point, use binoculars to study the complexities of the gorgeous Gothic detail. See if you can spot the dragon, demons and even the Statue of Liberty that stands above the main door.
Once you’ve taken in the splendor from afar, get up-close to the exceptional artwork on the central bronze portal. The massive door was sculpted in 1906 and depicts scenes of the ‘Joys and Sorrows of the Virgin Mary.’
Tickets are required to enter the cathedral and rooftop. This skip-the-line combo pass will give you access to both.
#2 Palazzo Reale di Milano
MAP. Dating to medieval times, the Neoclassical Royal Palace of Milan has a long, storied history.
It first served as the city’s town hall, then as a home to powerful families and a workshop for Leonardo da Vinci.
In the 16th century, the building was renovated into a royal residence. It was rebuilt in the 18th century and served as the house of the reigning Savoy Dynasty until 1919.
Today, it houses the Museo del Duomo and rotating art exhibitions. There are both free and paid exhibitions; check the official website for more details.
Milan Foodie Tip
If you need some sustenance for your Milan self-guided walking tour, there are a few fantastic places to get a bite to eat near Duomo Square.
Panzerotti Luini (MAP) is a long-standing bakery that churns out delicious and savory turnovers. It’s our favorite street Milan food, and one fried panzerotti is enough for a snack and two are plenty for lunch.
There are more quick and tasty options nearby, too. Spontini Pizza (MAP) is a mainstay for thick slabs of Milan pizza by the slice and Cesarino (MAP) makes incredible paninis.
Alternatively, head to the 7th floor Rinascente Milano Rooftop (MAP). Here, you will find an upscale food hall, a terrace with Cathedral views and free bathrooms.
Note that we circle back through here during our walk – so you can grab a snack later, too!
#3 Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa
MAP. Next up on our Milan free walking tour is the inconspicuous Church of San Bernadino alle Ossa.
While the façade and interior are rather ordinary, the ossuary is both bewildering and beautifully macabre.
The small Rococo chapel – which is down the hallway to the right from the entry – is decorated from floor to ceiling with human skulls and bones.
The chapel dates to the early 1200s, when cemeteries became overcrowded and the hospital needed space to store the deceased.
During the 17th century, the room was embellished by manipulating the remains into artwork. Skulls were arranged in mosaic patterns and the ceiling was painted with angels and saints.
For centuries, the dimly lit chapel has been a destination for religious pilgrims and as a place to contemplate the afterlife.
Although a dank, pungent scent permeates the room and the sight sent shivers down our spines, we think it’s a unique Milan attraction that is not to be missed!
#4 Chiesa di Santa Maria
MAP. Continue your Milan city tour to yet another hidden gem: the Church of Santa Maria presso San Satiro.
Far less chilling than the bone chapel, this tucked-away Renaissance church is renowned for its magical illusion.
Built in the 15th century in an already confined area, the architect, Bramante, was challenged with creating an awe-inspiring scene in a miniscule space.
He solved the problem by creating a spectacular optical illusion. Looking down the main aisle, the apse appears to extend far behind the altar. In reality, its actual depth is about 3 feet.
Take in the sight from the front of the altar, then move around to the side to reveal the trick. You can also pay one euro to better illuminate it at the entrance.
Bonus: Ciacco Gelato
MAP. This wouldn’t be the best self-guided walking tour in Milan if we didn’t point out this highly-acclaimed gelato shop!
The award-winning gelateria uses regional ingredients from local farmers (and no artificial additives) to make the most intensely flavored and incredibly creamy gelato.
Ciacco fearlessly experiments with unusual flavor combinations – and they just keep hitting the mark.
We tried the Gianduja (chocolate with hazelnuts), Zabaglione (a traditional sweet wine custard) and Pistachio (made with certified Bronte DOP pistachios). They all exceeded our expectations!
#5 Piazza Mercanti
MAP. During the Middle Ages, Piazza Mercanti was the bustling center of Milan’s administrative and commercial activity.
Although it’s fallen out of use, walking into the nearly enclosed square with time-stamped remnants is like stepping back in time.
Enter the square via Passaggio degli Osii and let your eyes fall onto the arched Palazzo della Ragione.
Dating to the year 1233, the red-brick building housed the courts, while the ground level was used as a marketplace.
Loggia degli Osii, the building on your left when you walked in, is a Gothic gem that dates to 1321. It was used by judges and lawyers with sentences and orders proclaimed from its balcony.
The elegant columned building next to it is the 17th century Palazzo delle Scuole Palatine. It was a prestigious school in its time and where the city’s most prominent citizens studied.
Enclosing the far end of the square is Casa dei Panigarola – also known as Palazzo dei Notai. Notaries worked here during the Middle Ages.
Across the street – on the far side of the Palazzo della Ragione – is the grandiose 16th century Palazzo dei Giureconsulti and its rising clock tower.
Now a conference center, originally it housed the city’s political and judicial administration. Later, it was the first Milan Stock Exchange and then the Chamber of Commerce.
#6 Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
MAP. Continue your walk in Milan by re-entering Piazza del Duomo – but then immediately exit to the north via the monumental Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
The four-story, glass-and-iron-covered shopping lane is majestic in every way – from the soaring dome to the luxury boutiques to the tiled floor.
Built in the 1870s, the Galleria ranks as the oldest shopping mall in Italy and is now firmly a Milan landmark.
Here, you will find upscale fashion brands – like Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton and the Borsalino hat shop – as well as iconic eateries, such as Biffi Caffe and Savini.
As you parade through the gallery, the ceiling will most definitely steal the show but be sure to look to the ground when under the dome.
This is where you will find the four floor mosaics: the Coat of Arms – and representations of the three capitals of the Kingdom of Italy: Turin, Florence and Rome.
The Turin artwork – a Bull – is the most popular. According to legend, if you spin on your heel on the bull’s testicles three times, you will find good fortune. Go ahead, give it a go!
The extravagant shopping lane connects the Duomo to Teatro Alla Scala, which is the next stop on our walking tour of Milan.
#7 La Scala Opera House
MAP. Considered the crème-de-la-crème of opera houses, Teatro alla Scala is a must-see (even though the building itself isn’t much to look at from the outside).
Built in 1778, the theater boasts exquisite acoustics and sublime design – and has staged legendary performances by some of the world’s most celebrated opera singers.
To truly experience the storied venue, you can attend an opera, ballet or orchestra performance – but there is also a museum.
#8 Brera District
MAP. Next on our Milan walk, we delve into gorgeous Brera. Situated in the city center, the quiet, cobblestoned lanes can make it feel as if you’ve been transported to a small town.
Start on the main thoroughfare, Via Brera. This is where you will find the Pinacoteca di Brera Art Gallery, which is home to an extensive collection of Italian paintings.
Tickets are required to see the artwork, but entering the courtyard, botanical garden (where there are free toilets) and the entry room of the library is free of charge.
Once you’ve checked that off, stroll some of the most picturesque streets using these directions.
Wander down Via Fiori Chiari to Via Madonnina, then step inside the 15th century Chiesa del Carmine. (Don’t miss the opulent Madonna del Carmine Chapel to the right of the main altar.)
From there, walk down the narrow and atmospheric Via Ciovasso and get lost for a moment in the tangle of alleys.
#9 Sforzesco Castle and Fountain
MAP. We had to cut out a few stops from our original plan to make it here before sunset, but it was the right choice. It’s a Milan, Italy must-see attraction!
Marking the entrance to the castle is the tiered Castello Fountain, often referred to as the Wedding Cake.
It only dates to 1936 (and was actually created to welcome Mussolini on his visit) but has become a symbol of the city of Milan.
The castle itself is a colossal fortress that was built in the 15th century. It served as the residence for Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan – and then later as a military fortification.
Well-preserved, the stronghold features thick walls, expansive courtyards and a central tower.
It also hosts a number of museums and art collections – including ancient artifacts, as well as works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
While there is a fee to enter the museums, the castle grounds are open to the public (and there are free bathrooms, too!).
#10 Sempione Park and Peace Arch
MAP. A sprawling green space, Sempione Park extends from the castle to the triumphant Arco della Pace.
Designed as a public park in the 1880s, Parco Sempione is lush with a forest of oak and chestnut trees and features winding paths through the foliage.
The grounds are centered on a small lake, which is crossed by the romantic Ponte delle Sirenette – Bridge of the Mermaids.
Several cultural institutions are situated within the park boundaries, including the Triennale Milano Museum, an aquarium, a library and a lookout tower, called Torre Branca.
The Peace Arch sits on the western boundary (MAP). It was commissioned by Napoleon in 1807, but it was not completed until 1838 (after Milan was conquered by the Austrian Empire).
The neoclassical span features carvings and decorative statues that depict everything from classic mythology to historic events.
This marks the end of our City of Milan walking tour. Sit on the steps to admire the arch and give your feet a rest. If you are up for more sightseeing, check out our tips below!
What To Do after Your Milan, Italy Walking Tour
Our outlined walk visits some of the best Milan attractions, but there is still so much more to see!
More Milan Churches
The churches in Milan are astounding – and there are over 200 of them! From the Arch of Peace, it’s fairly easy to get to a few of the best either on foot, tram or bus.
To the south you will find two fabulous churches: Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio and Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie.
Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio is a beautiful 11th century Romanesque church dedicated to the city’s patron saint. In fact, the crypt is the burial site for Saint Ambrose – and two other saints: Gervasius and Protasius.
The Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie is famous for being the home of Da Vinci’s original Last Supper painting.
Tickets sell out months in advance, so booking a guided experience is likely the best chance to see it. Combo tours – like this one – also include the Duomo.
That said, the church itself is a UNESCO heritage site that’s worth visiting – and it’s free to go inside.
Nearby, the Basilica di San Vittore al Corpo features Baroque décor and a beautiful ceiling, while Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore contains wonderful artwork.
Further to the east, Basilica di San Lorenzo is fronted by an impressive row of 2nd century Corinthian columns.
While in the area, be sure to swing by the Martinucci Laboratory Bakery for a delectable cream-filled Pasticciotto cake that hails from Lecce in Puglia!
From there, on the south side of Parco Giovanni Paolo II, you will find Basilica di Sant’Eustorgio, which houses relics of the Three Wise Men.
Explore the Milan Canals
Although not nearly as enchanting as the canals in Venice, the Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese are fun places to visit in Milan.
Dating to the 12th century, they were once an integral part of the city’s transportation system for moving products and food.
Today the canals are lined with cafes and restaurants that spill out onto the sidewalk and offer al fresco aperitivo.
Milan Shopping
As the ‘Fashion Capital of the World’, there is absolutely no shortage of places to go shopping in Milan!
In fact, the pedestrianized Via Dante – which stretches from Sforza Castle to Piazza del Duomo – is the most historic commercial shopping lane and it’s lined with dazzling 19th century architecture.
That said, Quadrilatero d’Oro – The Golden Triangle – is allegedly the world’s most famous shopping district.
Corso Venezia, Via Montenapoleone and Via Gesu are the top streets to find popular brands, luxury retailers and world-class Italian designers.
Modern Milan
Not all of Milan is steeped in history. Contemporary Porta Nuova is dotted with towering skyscrapers.
Here, you will find the UniCredit Tower (the tallest building in Italy) and Bosco Verticale (two residential towers covered in more than 800 trees).
Nearby Milan sights include the Monumental Cemetery (which is more akin to an open-air museum featuring lavishly designed tombstones) and Corso Como (a thriving pedestrian area with shops, bars and restaurants).
Milan Walking Tour Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Milan, Italy self-guided walking tour route below.
Guided Milan Tours
We’ve outlined what to see in Milan, Italy, but touring the city with fellow travelers can be fun, too!
Milan Food Tour
We’ve highlighted some of the best things to eat in Milan. However, if you prefer a guide to lead the way to scrumptious street food and epic culinary treats, then join this highly rated tour!
Milan Bike Tour
You can cover more ground in a shorter amount of time on two wheels! On this guided bicycle tour, you will discover hidden gems and local neighborhoods.
Start planning your trip to Italy! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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