Magyar Természetjáró Szövetség weboldalai MTSZ MTSZ térképportál Turista Magazin TuristaShop Kéktúra Gerecse50 A kéktúrázás napja
Try Pro for free
Choose a language
  • Milan Cathedral
    Milan Cathedral Photo: Ouael Ben Salah, CC0, Unsplash
  • The Naviglio Grande in Milan
    The Naviglio Grande in Milan Photo: Emmanuel Cassar, CC0, Unsplash
  • The Sforza Castle in Milan, seen from above at sunset
    The Sforza Castle in Milan, seen from above at sunset Photo: zheng.yan, CC BY-SA, Wikimedia Commons
  • The Basilica of Saint Ambrose in Milan Photo: Novellón, CC BY-SA, Wikimedia Commons
  • The modern Piazza Gae Aulenti in Milan. Photo: Luca Bravo, CC0, Unsplash

Milano

Milan is not just the city of fashion, design, and architecture – it’s also a real paradise for anyone who loves being active outdoors! You can stroll through the greenery of its many parks, explore the famous Navigli canals, or simply pause, look up, and count the countless spires of the Duomo after making your way to the square through the city center’s streets. The possibilities are endless: whether it's urban trekking, varied cycling routes, or major sports venues – here, you’re spoiled for choice!

3.9  (37 Ratings and reviews)

Outdooractive Editors  Verified partner 
Author of this page

Attractions in Milano


Highlights

  • My Map
  • Content
  • Show images Hide images
Features
Maps and trails
Canal · Province of Milan
PAVIA CANAL
Province of Milan
No ratings (yet)

5 centuries, 33 km and 12 locks to unite Milan and Pavia.

from Oasi Ca' Granda,   Fondazione Patrimonio Ca' Granda
Castle · Province of Milan
Sforza Castle
Province of Milan
No ratings (yet)

The Mailänder city castle dates back to the 14th century.

Outdooractive Editors
Monastery · Province of Milan
ABBEY OF CHIARAVALLE
Province of Milan
3

Founded in 1135 by St. Bernard, this abbey is among the most beautiful in Italy.

from Oasi Ca' Granda,   Fondazione Patrimonio Ca' Granda
Dome · Province of Milan
Milan Cathedral
Province of Milan
No ratings (yet)

The Cathedral of the Nativity of Mary of the Archdiocese of Milan is one of the largest churches in ...

Outdooractive Editors
Park · Milano
TICINELLO PARK
Milano
No ratings (yet)

Rogues, marshlands, poplars, finches and dragonflies: a treasure trove of biodiversity.

from Oasi Ca' Granda,   Fondazione Patrimonio Ca' Granda
Architecture · Milano
Navigli district
Milano
No ratings (yet)

This Milan neighbourhood is home to numerous charming cafés and restaurants right on the medieval ...

Outdooractive Editors
Province of Milan
No ratings (yet)

The Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is ...

Outdooractive Editors
Park · Province of Milan
Simplonpark
Province of Milan
No ratings (yet)

Milan's Parco Sempione is located next to the Castello Sforzesco and boasts beautiful gardens and ...

Outdooractive Editors
  • My Map
  • Content
  • Show images Hide images
Features
Maps and trails

Winter in five rings

The city of Milan is no stranger to major international events, and this year it is at the center of the princely sports event for 2026: the Winter Olympics. Specifically, ice hockey, figure skating, speed skating and short track competitions will be held here; which will be spread over no less than four different venues:
  • Milan Ice Skating Arena
  • Milan Rho Ice Hockey
  • Milan Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena
  • Milan Speed Skating

The city also hosts the Opening Ceremony at the San Siro Stadium.


Milan: a city between past and future

What to see in Milan?

Milan’s monuments are famous across the globe—first and foremost is the Duomo, undeniably the city’s most important landmark. Instantly recognizable by its intricate architecture of spires, statues (including the renowned “Madonnina,” a city symbol), pinnacles, and gargoyles, the Duomo is a fascinating and imposing example of the Neo-Gothic style with a remarkably lengthy history. While construction began in 1386, the church’s façade wasn’t completed until 1813.

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II connects the Duomo with another city icon: the Teatro alla Scala, one of the world’s most prestigious opera houses. Built from 1865 in the neoclassical style, this covered arcade—lined with exclusive restaurants and luxury boutiques—quickly became known as the “drawing room of Milan.” Its lavish decorations—sculptures, frescoes, and mosaic floors—not to mention the spectacular iron-and-glass roof, never fail to impress visitors.

Another symbol of Milan is the magnificent Castello Sforzesco, built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza. Its square layout gives the fortress a solid and imposing appearance, softened by the elegant round towers and the large entrance gate. Once you pass through, you find yourself in Parco Sempione, one of the city’s most important green spaces.
The Brera Art Gallery
The Brera Art Gallery
Photo: Dimitris Vetsikas, CC0, Pixabay
The most important—and famous—museum in Milan is undoubtedly the Cenacolo Vinciano, located in the convent of the Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie, one of Italy’s most beautiful churches. The refectory here houses Leonardo da Vinci’s world-renowned mural, “The Last Supper,” a sublime masterpiece commissioned in 1494.

Art lovers should not miss the Accademia di Brera either. Housed in the Palazzo di Brera, its art gallery (Pinacoteca) features one of Italy’s most important collections, with masterpieces by artists such as Caravaggio, Raphael, and Mantegna.

Among the city’s treasures, the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio is a must-see as well—one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Italy. Built in the 4th century and later rebuilt in the Romanesque style in the 11th century, the basilica captivates with its simplicity and beauty. Notable features include the octagonal tiburium, the four-sided portico, various mosaics, and the altar of Sant’Ambrogio.

Among Milan’s many attractions, here’s a final insider tip: Villa Necchi Campiglio. This refined example of a Milanese upper-class residence from the 1930s is now managed by the FAI and open to visitors. It features Italy’s first private swimming pool, a tennis court, exquisite furnishings, and prestigious art collections. Not far away, you’ll find Villa Invernizzi, where you can admire graceful flamingos.

Another must-see is the Navigli district, a charming and lively area that owes its charm to the canals designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Strolling from the Darsena along the banks of the Navigli, among artisan stores and art galleries and then sitting down for an aperitif or a bite to eat, particularly at sunset, is a unique experience.
Architecture · Milano
Navigli district
Milano
No ratings (yet)

This Milan neighbourhood is home to numerous charming cafés and restaurants right on the medieval ...

Outdooractive Editors

Outdoor activities in Milan

Urban trekking in vibrant Milan

Urban trekking in vibrant Milan
The Bosco Verticale are two innovative buildings opened in 2014
Photo: Daniel Seßler, CC0, Unsplash
Urban Trekking in Vibrant Milan Milan offers plenty of urban routes that let you discover the city’s lesser-known side—from modern neighborhoods to hidden gems and special corners. One such route starts just steps from the Duomo and leads you to the stunning University of Milan, the rather eerie church of San Bernardino alle Ossa in Piazza Santo Stefano, the Parco alla Guastalla, and the Rotonda della Besana, a late 17th-century cemetery complex.

A bit further south, you can stroll through a quieter area of Milan stretching between the pedestrian-friendly Via San Calimero and Bocconi University, taking in colorful murals along the way. The Ortica neighborhood, a former industrial zone now undergoing transformation, is also a great spot for urban walks focused on street art and creative murals.

The brand-new district of Porta Nuova, with its skyscrapers and the Bosco Verticale, is perfect for a stroll or some relaxation. CityLife will surprise you too, often called the “little Manhattan” for its modern skyscrapers, numerous shops, historic villas, art installations, and parks ideal for running and walking.

And of course, no visit to Milan is complete without shopping! At least once, you should wander through the Quadrilatero della Moda—even if it’s just to admire the dazzling window displays of luxury boutiques along Monte Napoleone, Santo Spirito, della Spiga, and Sant'Andrea.

 

Who says Milan is a grey city? In reality, it boasts 97 parks and gardens, offering endless opportunities for anyone wanting to stroll in nature or relax on a bench. Besides the five main city oases—Parco Sempione, BAM - Biblioteca degli Alberi, the Indro Montanelli Gardens, Parco Industria Alfa Romeo – Portello, and Parco Forlanini—every part of the city is enriched with green spaces that provide relaxation and fun for young and old alike.

Some examples: In Parco Sud, you can unwind among old rice fields and farmhouses, always with the city’s high-rises on the horizon. The Parco Agricolo Sud Milano even includes the famous Abbey of Chiaravalle. Parco del Ticinello is a small, unexpected green oasis along the course of the little river it’s named after. And Parco Nord is a peaceful spot, little known and perfect if you’re really looking to escape the crowds.

Jogging and running: Milan at your own pace

 

Milan is always on the go— and not just for work! Jogging is hugely popular among locals and is a healthy, fun way to explore the city while staying in shape. The city offers numerous running routes for all levels, from city center to outskirts, through parks and quiet urban areas.

If you’re looking for some elevation, the Montagnetta di San Siro (Monte Stella) is ideal: with 185 meters of elevation gain and loops for every level, it’s the go-to spot for hill training in the city.

Throughout the year, Milan also hosts a variety of sports events for both professional athletes and amateurs—including Stramilano, the Milano Marathon, Salomon Running Milano, and Deejay Ten. So, whatever your pace, you’ll always find a race waiting for you in Milan!

Jogging in the city
Photo: wal_172619, CC0, Pixabay

Cycling along the canals

 

The bicycle is the ideal way to explore the Navigli, the historic artificial canals that once served to transport goods and people, and today make up one of the most fascinating areas of the city. Cycling along the bike paths that run alongside these waterways, you’ll discover a quieter, more picturesque side of Milan, far from traffic and surrounded by greenery.

If you’d like to venture beyond the city limits, the Navigli are also perfect for out-of-town excursions. The Naviglio Grande leads all the way to Abbiategrasso, passing historic villages and agricultural landscapes; the Naviglio Pavese takes cyclists to the university city of Pavia; and the Naviglio Martesana, one of the greenest and most relaxing canals, runs all the way to Cassano d’Adda.

Water sports in Milan

If you think it’s strange to imagine Milan as a city full of water, you’ll be even more surprised to discover that you can actually enjoy water sports right in the city! Milan boasts several historic rowing clubs, and it’s not unusual to see canoes gliding through the Darsena or down the Naviglio Grande.

If you’re a water sports enthusiast, you need to check out the Idroscalo—a man-made lake fed by the groundwater of the Lambro River. Here, you can try cable-ski water skiing, canoeing and kayaking, sailing, or simply swim and relax on a well-equipped city beach just a few steps from downtown.

Looking for a more thrilling and unusual experience? At Idroscalo, you can even go surfing or wakeboarding thanks to a giant wave pool—real adrenaline right in the heart of Milan!

You can also do water sports in Milan
Photo: Erin Brundage, unsplash.com

Trip planning


Weather

10-day forecast

Getting there

Get there by train, car, bike, or on foot!

Reviews

Destinations in Milano


THE way to start your next outdoor experience!
Logo agrar Logo aofk Logo mol Logo otp