Bosco Verticale — Porta Nuova District

Milan's architecture is not only neoclassical promenades, Gothic cathedrals and posh villas — Porta Nuova district is the new and modern revitalization project that has drastically changed the city. Take a walk around the Diamond Tower, the Unicredit Tower and many other glass and steel construction. The stars of the show here are the two skyscrapers known as Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest). Featured in all major architecture outlets, these residential towers have actual live trees growing on its facade. They look marvellously lush in the spring and summer and totally enchanting covered in snow and frost.

• Web:

  www.residenzeportanuova.com/it/residenze/bosco-verticale

• Address:

  Via Gaetano de Castillia 11, Milan

• More info:

  Porta Nuova district is located close to Corso Como and Piazza Gae Aulenti

Brera

The Brera area is a must if you visit Milan. Young professionals and students tend to gather in this bohemian quarter, which boasts countless small boutiques and restaurants. It is a perfect place to eat a memorable lunch or to have an aperitivo towards the evening.

• Address:

  Brera, Milan

Castello Sforzesco

The Castello Sforzesco was built in the 15th by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan, on the remnants of a 14th-century fortification. Until the beginning of the 20th century it was a symbol of power and the nobility used it as their residence. Today the castle houses a wide selection of cultural sights, such as museums and exhibitions.

• Web:

  www.milanocastello.it/en

• E-mail:

  serviziocastello@comune.milano.it

• Address:

  Piazza Castello 3, Milan

• Phone:

  +39 02 884 637 00

• Opening hours:

  The Castle: 7am–7:30pm. Castle Museums: Tue–Sun 10am–5:30pm

Cenacolo Vinciano — The Last Supper

Cenacolo Vinciano is the home of one of the world’s most legendary and beloved works of art, Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. It’s rarely possible to simply walk in and take a look though, so definitely book your visit in advance.

• Web:

  www.cenacolovinciano.org

• E-mail:

  cenacologruppi@adartem.it

• Address:

  Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie 2, Milan

• Phone:

  +39 02 928 003 60

Cimitero Monumentale

Cimitero Monumentale opened in 1866 and is one of the two largest in Milan. To be buried here, the deceased had to be from higher echelons of society, and one can pay homage to the memory of a few celebrated artists and political figures here. A guided tour will not only draw your attention to the wide array of contemporary and classical Italian works of art, but will also give you information about the rich and famous Italians who found their resting place here.

• Web:

  monumentale.comune.milano.it

• Address:

  Piazzale Cimitero Monumentale 1, Milan

• Phone:

  +39 02 884 412 74

• Opening hours:

  Tue–Sun 8am–6pm

• Tickets:

  General entry is free

Discover Milan's Art Scene

There's nothing quite like being shown around by a local, who is passionate and knowledgeable about their city. Only a local could take you around their favourite street art spots and point out all the hidden gems you would have missed otherwise. While some parts of Milan can be snooty and luxurious, giving you world class art institutions, others are filled with life by alternative contemporary artists. Get a more intimate look at Milan's art scene with a 90-minute tour — you'll be begging for more!

• More info:

  Tours usually start next to the Santa Maria alla Fontana church