When visiting Milan start your sightseeing from Piazza Duomo dominated by the Duomo itself, once the largest cathedral in the world and still one of the largest in Europe. You can take an elevator to the roof level of the Duomo for a high-up view of the Piazza below. Piazza Mercanti nearby is a characteristic square with interesting buildings such as Palazzo della Regione dating back to 1200, the seventeenth century Palazzo delle Scuole Palatine and the Loggia degli Osii.
The Basilica of Saint Ambrogio founded in the 4th century by Milan’s patron saint is also worth a visit; the saint himself is buried in the crypt and his body can be seen in a spooky and desiccated form.
La Scala theatre, which is arguably the best known opera house in Europe, is noted for its varied repertoire of new and classical works. Visit the Gothic church of Santa Maria delle Grazie where Leonardo’s Last Supper is kept, the painting is incredibly faded even after some recent extensive restoration work.

La Scala

Castello Sforzesco, the seat of the Sforza family, is a fine example of Renaissance Architecture. Today, it is home to several major museums such as the Museum of Ancient Art, Prehistoric and Egyptian collections of the Archaeological Museum, and collections of medieval and renaissance furnishing, musical instruments and jewellery. Behind the fortress stands Parco Sempione, this huge and fascinating park with lakes, meadows and bridges is the ideal place to escape the heavy traffic and to enjoy some fresh air.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele

Milan is a fashion capital and shopping here is an incredible experience, you can start from Galleria Vittorio Emanuele which is an ancient shopping complex, with many shops and cafes and also known as “Milan’s Lounge”. Look out for the picture of a Bull on the floor, which tradition says you ought to spin around its testicles in order to make a wish. Continue your shopping on Corso Vittorio Emanuele and via Montenapoleone. The area of Brera, which includes Corso Garibaldi, via Solferino and via Brera, is one of the most fashionable and exclusive places in the city with artists, open-air cafés, restaurants and interesting boutiques.