What to do in Metropolitan City of Milan

Start your visit to Milan in the city’s heart. The busy Piazza del Duomo lies at the centre of the city and is the main square. Many major streets branch out from here to the rest of Milan while some of the best attractions line its perimeter. See the Cathedral of Milan, shop for signature Italian brands and sip espresso from cafés surrounding the square. The Piazza del Duomo is the most popular attraction in the city.

The Cathedral of Milan, called the Duomo by locals, towers over the centre of the city. It’s one of the biggest churches in the world and its many spires and intricate façade are breathtaking. Stand in the Piazza del Duomo to get the best photo of Milan’s most recognisable landmark.

One of the oldest shopping centres in the world, today the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a mecca for luxury shopping, with signature Italian labels such as Gucci and Prada calling it home. The four-storey gallery is also luxurious in its design. If you have money to spend, come to splash some cash in expensive stores and fine dining restaurants. Those on a smaller budget can appreciate the architecture and seek out reasonably priced souvenirs, although you’d be wise to eat elsewhere; even a coffee will cost you a small fortune in the fancy cafés that line the galleries.

See why Milan is a city of international significance at Fiera Milano City, a fairground that hosts a diverse calendar of events. While Fiera Milano, its sister site on the outskirts of the city, is the larger venue, Fiera Milano City benefits from its convenient location near the historic center of Milan. With a stunning convention center next door and rooms offering space for thousands of guests, the fairground is used regularly throughout the year.

Dress up to see an opera, a classical music performance or a world-class ballet at the Teatro alla Scala. The famous opera house is known for its lavish red and gold interior. Tour the building during the day or sip champagne during a performance interval and admire the centuries-old building. A museum details the important role the theatre has played in the history of Italian opera. The Academy for the Performing Arts is also located here.