Heading to Milano, Italy this summer? Read my top ten hidden gems and fun things to do in Milan.
When I visited Milan as a surprise destination with BRB Travel, I was so surprised at how much I enjoyed this fashion-conscious city! I didn’t expect there to be so much to do, apart from stunning architecture to enjoy – but I was wrong. Although I’m no expert, my boyfriend and I packed in a fair lot in our three-day break hete. So I wanted to share with you my favourite Milan hidden gems and top things to do in Milan…
Cimitero Monumentale
Monumental Cemetery is probably hand down one of my favourite hidden gems in Milan. Although it’s not quite ‘hidden’, I think many people don’t visit due to the fact that it’s a cemetery! Monumental Cemetery boasts artistic tombs and beautiful monuments in a really tranquil and beautiful space. You can easily spend an entire afternoon slowly wandering around this peaceful paradise. In fact, it’s known as one of the largest cemeteries in Milan.
Bar Luce
Bar Luce is a hip spot which was actually designed by film director Wes Anderson! Ideal for that essential gram shot, the bar recreates the atmosphere of a typical Milanese cafè. It even has pinball machines and a retro jukebox.
Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli
Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli isn’t necessarily a hidden gem, as many people head here to visit the wonderful Museo Civico di Storia Naturale di Milano (Milan Natural History Museum). But I’d recommend taking an afternoon to explore the park’s grounds. There are a couple of eateries, bar Bianco being my favourite to indulge in lunch and a cocktail in the sun. Most people tend to head directly over to Sempione Park to visit Sforzesco Castle, but don’t overlook Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli, especially if you’re based on the outskirts of the city! It can be a nice distraction from the lovely – but long! – streets of the city, especially if you’re in search of some shade.
Navigli
Navigli is a popular spot but it’s definitely well worth heading out of the city centre to visit for some aperitivo! I’d recommend heading here in the late afternoon to explore its many vintage boutiques, before dipping into the many different riverfront bars for cocktails once aperitivo hour(s) hits!
Read more: A weekend break in Milano, Italy
San Bernardino alle Ossa
If you can stomach it, San Bernardino alle Ossa is known as the church of bones. In fact, it actually only refers to the ossuary, which is a small side chapel within the church. It was built in 1210 to hold bones (when a nearby cemetery ran out of space. Now you can admire the small room which, though kind of eerie, is also very, very beautiful.
Bosco Verticale
As far as I’m aware, you can’t actually enter the buildings. However, this pair of residential towers are famous due to the fact that they are covered in greenery. Amongst the height of 111 meters, more than 900 trees are contained across 8,900 square metres of terraces – dubbing them the ‘Vertical Forest’. Another place that is worth visiting to get a photo.
ATMosfera tram
The traditional trams in Milan are a great way to get around the city. But did you know that you can also dine on one? ATMosfera tram is basically a restaurant on a tram. You can dine on traditional Milanese dishes whilst travelling around the city and enjoying Milan by night. And don’t worry: reviews state that although it can be hard to get a reservation (so book far in advance!), the trams themselves run relatively smoothly. So if you’re clumsy like me, you need not worry about dropping food down yourself.
Colonne di San Lorenzo
Colonne di San Lorenzo is simply a cool nightlife spot for young locals. With plenty of partying and cheap drinks on offer, it’s worth a visit if you’re on a budget. The highlight is the fact that it’s set amongst beautiful Roman ruins and the stunning Basilica di San Lorenzo church.
Backdoor43
What type of list would this be if it didn’t include the world’s smallest bar?! Hidden within the Navigli district, Backdoor 43 serves up tasty cocktails in what’s said to be the world’s smallest bar. It even has a bathroom – though that’s the largest part of the bar.
Giardini della Guastalla
Guastalla Gardens is another green area usually overlooked for the famous Sempione Park. But if you want something a little more quiet and traditional, head here. The small garden was constructed in 1555 and boasts grassy areas, paths & a tranquil pond. It’s perfect for a romantic picnic as the sun goes down!
Finally, although it’s not a ‘hidden’ gem, I’ll have to include taking a rooftop tour of Duomo di Milano. It’s unique in that you get to walk on the actual rooftop for stunning views of not just Milan, but the beautiful architecture of grey statues, spires, stone carvings that sit atop the cathedral.
These are just ten of my favourite hidden gems/top things to do in Milan. The wonderful thing about this list (and Milano!) is that you can pretty much visit them all within one weekend. This is because everything is so central and accessible in Milan.
Fancy visiting any of these places? Simply refer to this handy little map – and remember to save/download for offline use too!
Which place would be your top must-visit in this city? Have I missed any amazing Milan hidden gems or Milan secret spots? Let me know!
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