Milan is a city located in the northern part of Italy It is known for its fashion, design, architecture and art with many of the world's top fashion brands and designers being based in the city. It hosts several international fashion events, such as Milan Fashion Week, which attracts fashion professionals worldwide. Milan is considered a leading global city hub for international business and finance. It is home to the Italian stock exchange and many multinational corporations have headquarters in the city. The city is also known for its historical and cultural attractions, such as the Gothic Cathedral of Milan and Duomo. The cathedral is one of the world's largest churches and is considered a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
In terms of cuisine, Milan is known for dishes such as risotto alla Milanese, a saffron-flavoured rice dish, and Cotoletta alla Milanese, a breaded veal cutlet. The city is also home to many high-end restaurants and cafes offering a range of international cuisines. Overall, Milan is a city that combines history, culture, and modernity, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.
Places to visit in Milan
Milan is a beautiful city in Italy known for its rich culture, art, history, and architecture. It is a city with something to offer everyone, whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a fashion fanatic. IndiGo has curated a list of the best places to visit in Milan.
- The Duomo - The Duomo is one of the largest cathedrals in the world and is located in the heart of the city. The exterior has stunning marble architecture, and the interior boasts impressive stained glass windows, intricate mosaics and elaborate sculptures.
- The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele - The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele is a stunning 19th-century shopping arcade located next to the Duomo. It is one of the oldest shopping malls in the world and features a stunning glass ceiling, marble floors, and intricate ironwork. Visitors can find some of the world's most luxurious brands here.
- Sforza Castle - The Sforza Castle is a massive fortress that was built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza. It is one of the largest citadels in Europe and houses several museums and art collections that include works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
- La Scala - La Scala is a well-known opera house and has been in operation since 1778. It is known for its exceptional acoustics and has hosted some of the world's most renowned opera singers like Maria Callas and Luciano Pavarotti.
- Brera Art Gallery - The Brera Art Gallery is one of Milan's premier art museums. Located in the Brera district, it features an extensive collection of Italian Renaissance art including works by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Botticelli.
- Navigli - The Navigli district is a charming area of Milan known for its canals and lively nightlife. It is a great place to take a stroll along the water, enjoy an aperitivo, and watch the sunset.
- Pinacoteca di Brera - The Pinacoteca di Brera is another fantastic art museum in the Brera district. It is home to an impressive collection of Italian art and includes works by Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese.
- Santa Maria delle Grazie - Santa Maria delle Grazie is a beautiful church that is located in the heart of Milan. It is known for its stunning architecture and houses one of the most famous paintings in the world - Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper."
- Piazza del Duomo - Piazza del Duomo is the central square in Milan. It is surrounded by some of the city's most iconic landmarks such as the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Palazzo Reale. It is a great place to unwind, enjoy a gelato, and take in the city's vibrant energy.
Important things to remember on a trip to Milan
- Pack comfortable walking shoes as Milan is a city best explored on foot.
- Buy a MilanoCard for discounts on transportation, attractions, and restaurants.
- Try traditional Milanese dishes like risotto alla Milanese and cotoletta alla Milanese.
- Take advantage of the city's public transportation system which includes buses, trams, and metro.
- Book tickets for popular museums and attractions in advance to skip the lines.
Milan Airport
Milan has two main airports - Malpensa and Linate. Malpensa Airport (MXP) is the larger and more widely used airport, located about 45 km from the city centre. Linate Airport (LIN) is smaller and closer to the city centre, about 7 km away. Both airports offer various transportation options to get to the city centre, including taxis, buses, and trains.
Numerous facilities are available at both airports that include shopping, dining, and currency exchange. Be mindful of the baggage restrictions and rules, especially for international flights. Pre-book a taxi or use a ride-sharing service to avoid any hassle. Ensure your travel documents are ready for customs and immigration clearance.
Milan visa requirements
To visit Italy, you'll require a Schengen visa, which is also known as a short-term visa. It's worth noting that this visa is valid in all European countries that are part of the Schengen agreement, including Italy. The following documents are required for a Milan visa:
- A valid passport.
- Passport-size photo.
- A return ticket showing the departing date.
- Proof of hotel bookings.
- A detailed plan and duration of the visitor's stay.
- Travel insurance to cover medical expenses, if required.
- Proof of enough financial support.