ARCHITECTURAL WONDERS TO SEE FOR FREE IN MILAN

Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest)

Overview: Bosco Verticale, or the Vertical Forest, is one of Milan’s most innovative and iconic architectural landmarks. Designed by Stefano Boeri Architetti, this pair of residential towers is renowned for its green design, featuring extensive vertical gardens that cover the building’s facades. These green walls are not only visually striking but also serve as a natural habitat for birds and insects, and help combat urban pollution.

Address: Via della Stazione Porta Nuova, 20124 Milan, Italy

How to Get There:

  • Nearest Metro: Garibaldi (Line 2 and 5). The building is a short walk from the metro station.

Free Experience:

  • Exterior Viewing: The Vertical Forest is best appreciated from the outside. Walk around the buildings to view their lush green facades, which are adorned with over 9,000 trees, 14,000 plants, and 40,000 shrubs.
  • Photo Opportunities: The towers provide excellent photo opportunities, especially from nearby areas such as Piazza Gae Aulenti and Corso Como, which offer a good vantage point for capturing the striking contrast between the green facades and the modern cityscape.

Tips:

  • Best Time to Visit: Daylight hours provide the best lighting for photography and viewing the greenery. Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds.
  • Respect Privacy: The Vertical Forest is a residential building, so access to the interior or private areas is not allowed. Enjoy the exterior and appreciate the building’s design from public spaces.

Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano)

Overview: The Milan Cathedral, or Duomo di Milano, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Milan. This Gothic masterpiece boasts an elaborate facade and intricate spires that define the city’s skyline. While entry to the cathedral itself is free, there is a fee to access the rooftop.

  • Address: Piazza del Duomo, 20122 Milan, Italy
  • How to Get There: Nearest Metro: Duomo (Line 1 and 3). The cathedral is directly accessible from the metro station.
  • Free Experience: Explore the cathedral’s grand interior and admire its stunning architecture and stained glass windows. The exterior, with its intricate details and sculptures, is also a must-see.

Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco)

Overview: Sforza Castle, a formidable fortress with a rich history, is one of Milan’s most important historical sites. The castle’s courtyards and exterior walls are open to the public for free.

  • Address: Piazza Castello, 20121 Milan, Italy
  • How to Get There: Nearest Metro: Cairoli (Line 1). The castle is a short walk from the metro station.
  • Free Experience: Wander through the castle’s expansive courtyards, admire the defensive walls, and enjoy the surrounding park, Parco Sempione, which is also free to explore.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Overview: The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a historic shopping arcade known for its stunning glass dome and intricate mosaic floors. This architectural gem is a popular spot for both tourists and locals.

  • Address: Piazza del Duomo, 20121 Milan, Italy
  • How to Get There: Nearest Metro: Duomo (Line 1 and 3). The Galleria is directly accessible from the metro station.
  • Free Experience: Stroll through the arcade, admire the luxurious design, and enjoy the beautiful ceiling and floor mosaics. It’s a great place for window shopping and people-watching.

Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore

Overview: Often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of Milan,” the Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is renowned for its breathtaking frescoes and Baroque architecture. Entry is free.

  • Address: Corso Magenta, 15, 20123 Milan, Italy
  • How to Get There: Nearest Metro: Cadorna (Line 1 and 2). The church is a short walk from the metro station.
  • Free Experience: Visit the church to admire its magnificent frescoes and intricate architectural details. The interior is a stunning example of Milanese Baroque art.

Porta Nuova District

Overview: The Porta Nuova district is known for its modern skyscrapers and innovative architecture. Key landmarks include the Unicredit Tower and the Vertical Forest (Bosco Verticale), which are notable examples of contemporary design.

  • Address: Porta Nuova, 20124 Milan, Italy
  • How to Get There: Nearest Metro: Garibaldi (Line 2 and 5). The district is a short walk from the metro station.
  • Free Experience: Walk around the district to appreciate the modern architecture and towering skyscrapers. The Vertical Forest, with its green-covered balconies, is particularly striking.

Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio

Overview: The Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio is one of Milan’s oldest and most significant churches, dating back to the 4th century. It features a blend of Romanesque architecture and early Christian art.

  • Address: Piazza Sant’Ambrogio, 15, 20123 Milan, Italy
  • How to Get There: Nearest Metro: Sant’Ambrogio (Line 2). The basilica is directly accessible from the metro station.
  • Free Experience: Explore the church’s impressive facade and ancient interior, including the beautiful apse and crypt. The basilica’s historical significance adds to its architectural appeal.

Biblioteca Ambrosiana

Overview: Biblioteca Ambrosiana, one of Milan’s most prestigious libraries, features an elegant façade and a historically rich interior. While entry to the library itself may have a fee, exploring the surrounding architecture is free.

  • Address: Piazza San Lorenzo, 1, 20122 Milan, Italy
  • How to Get There: Nearest Metro: Duomo (Line 1 and 3). The library is a short walk from the metro station.
  • Free Experience: Admire the library’s façade and nearby historic buildings, and enjoy the architectural details of this renowned institution.

Basilica di San Lorenzo Maggiore

Overview: The Basilica di San Lorenzo Maggiore is an ancient church with a mix of Romanesque and Renaissance architecture. It is known for its impressive columns and historical significance.

  • Address: Corso di Porta Ticinese, 39, 20123 Milan, Italy
  • How to Get There: Nearest Metro: Porta Genova (Line 2). The basilica is a short walk from the metro station.
  • Free Experience: Visit the church to explore its unique architectural features and historical elements. The surrounding area also offers picturesque views and a charming atmosphere.