What to do in Milan: our themed holidays

Written by Quentin de Bonjour Évasion

Published on July 10, 2025

A jewel of Northern Italy and the fashion capital of the world, Milan is so much more than its luxury storefronts! Here’s a selection of must-do activities in the capital of Lombardy to help you explore the city from every angle.

Culture: From Masterpieces to Opera

Let’s start with the Pinacoteca di Brera, one of Italy’s most renowned museums. Here, you can admire masterpieces by Raphael, Mantegna, and Caravaggio. The rooms are spacious and filled with natural light, offering a peaceful immersion into Italian art. A must-visit if you love well-curated museums!

Another unmissable cultural gem: La Scala Theatre. This iconic opera house impresses with its opulent decor. Even a simple visit gives you access to its museum, which traces the history of music and its greatest figures, from Verdi to Maria Callas... But for a truly unforgettable experience, attending one of the many performances held each season is the ultimate treat.

Heritage: Monumental Milan

You can’t visit Milan without seeing the Duomo, the city’s emblem. This Gothic masterpiece, built from Candoglia marble, even lets you climb above Milan’s rooftops! The panoramic view from the terrace is stunning—especially at sunset.

Duomo di Milano

Just a few steps from the Duomo, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II dazzles with elegance. Inaugurated in 1877, this covered shopping arcade is one of the oldest in Europe. Marble floors, glass dome, iron-and-glass roof... The setting is magnificent. It houses luxury boutiques, bookstores, cafés, and even a five-star hotel.

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, which recently served as the setting for the film Wonka!

Nearby, the Sforza Castle is a former fortress that now hosts several museums. You can see an unfinished sculpture by Michelangelo and stroll through the vast Sempione Park for a relaxing break.

Fashion: High-End Labels… and Great Deals!

Milan and haute couture go hand in hand. The Quadrilatero della Moda, stretching between Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga, is home to the biggest fashion houses: Armani, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana... This is the beating heart of Milanese style.

But the city also caters to bargain hunters! In and around Milan, outlets like Serravalle Designer Outlet, Il Salvagente, or Scalo Milano offer discounts from 30% to 70% on prestigious brands. For more shopping tips, check out this Bonjour Milan article listing the best factory outlets in the area.

Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Spots and Unique Experiences

Milan knows how to surprise you. 10 Corso Como is a one-of-a-kind concept store combining fashion, design, and contemporary art in a charming inner courtyard. It’s as much a place to wander as it is to discover rare finds and attend exhibitions.

Another unexpected spot: the Monumental Cemetery. A true open-air museum, it houses spectacular tombs of many notable Milanese, sculpted by some of Italy’s greatest artists. A peaceful and fascinating walk, far from the city’s hustle and bustle.