OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES & PLACES TO GO FOR FREE IN MILAN


Nestled amidst the fashion-forward ambiance and historical allure, Milan reveals an often-overlooked treasure trove of free outdoor experiences. This bustling metropolis seamlessly blends modernity with historical charm, offering a variety of options for those eager to explore without delving into their wallets.

Parco Sempione (Sempione Park):

  • Overview: Parco Sempione is a large public park located behind the Sforza Castle, providing a green escape in the heart of Milan. The park features walking paths, open lawns, and tranquil water features.
  • Suggestions: Picnics, leisurely walks, people-watching.
  • Free Days/Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk.
  • Highlights: Peace Arch, Branca Tower, Sforza Castle.
  • Website: Parco Sempione
  • Address: Piazza Sempione, 20154 Milano MI, Italy.
  • How to Get There: The closest metro station is Cairoli (M1).

Navigli District:

  • Overview: Explore the trendy Navigli district, known for its picturesque canals, charming bridges, and vibrant atmosphere. The area is dotted with boutiques, cafes, and street art.
  • Suggestions: Stroll along the canals, enjoy street performances.
  • Highlights: Naviglio Grande, Naviglio Pavese, Vicolo dei Lavandai.
  • Website: Navigli District
  • Address: Navigli District, 20123 Milano MI, Italy.
  • How to Get There: The closest metro station is Porta Genova (M2).

Cimitero Monumentale (Monumental Cemetery):

  • Overview: Cimitero Monumentale is a monumental cemetery with impressive sculptures, mausoleums, and artistic tombs. It serves as both a cemetery and an open-air museum.
  • Suggestions: Historical and artistic exploration, quiet reflection.
  • Free Days/Hours: Open daily, specific sections may have restricted access.
  • Highlights: Notable gravesites, sculptures, architecture.
  • Website: Cimitero Monumentale
  • Address: Piazzale Cimitero Monumentale, 20154 Milano MI, Italy.
  • How to Get There: The closest metro station is Monumentale (M5).

Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli (Indro Montanelli Public Gardens):

  • Overview: Located near the Porta Venezia, these public gardens offer a peaceful retreat with walking paths, statues, and a natural history museum.
  • Suggestions: Relaxing walks, nature exploration, museum visit.
  • Free Days/Hours: Open daily from 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM.
  • Highlights: Natural history museum, Planetario Ulrico Hoepli.
  • Website: Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli
  • Address: Via Palestro, 16, 20121 Milano MI, Italy.
  • How to Get There: The closest metro station is Palestro (M1).

Bosco Verticale – Exterior View (Vertical Forest):

  • Overview: Admire the innovative Bosco Verticale, or Vertical Forest, consisting of residential towers covered in greenery, contributing to urban biodiversity.
  • Suggestions: Photography, architectural appreciation.
  • Free Days/Hours: Open to public viewings from the exterior.
  • Highlights: Sustainable architecture, green living.
  • Website: Bosco Verticale
  • Address: Via Gaetano de Castillia, 11, 20124 Milano MI, Italy.
  • How to Get There: The closest metro station is Porta Garibaldi (M2, M5).

Quartiere Isola (Isola District):

  • Overview: The Isola district is a vibrant neighborhood known for its street art, colorful murals, and a mix of modern and historic architecture.
  • Suggestions: Street art appreciation, exploring local cafes.
  • Highlights: Street art, Bosco Verticale, traditional markets.
  • Website: Isola District
  • Address: Isola District, 20159 Milano MI, Italy.
  • How to Get There: The closest metro station is Zara (M3).

Biblioteca Nazionale Braidense (Braidense National Library):

  • Overview: Located within the Brera district, the Braidense National Library is a historic library with a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and ancient texts.
  • Suggestions: Reading, studying, historical exploration.
  • Free Days/Hours: Free admission to the library, check opening times.
  • Highlights: Architectural beauty, extensive book collection.
  • Website: Braidense National Library
  • Address: Via Brera, 28, 20121 Milano MI, Italy.
  • How to Get There: The closest metro station is Lanza (M2).

Bosco in Città (Wood in the City):

  • Overview: Bosco in Città is a green oasis in the Porta Nuova district, featuring a wooded area with walking paths, benches, and a tranquil atmosphere.
  • Suggestions: Nature walks, relaxation, bird-watching.
  • Free Days/Hours: Open daily during daylight hours.
  • Highlights: Urban greenery, peaceful ambiance.
  • Website: Bosco in Città
  • Address: Porta Nuova district, 20121 Milano MI, Italy.
  • How to Get There: The closest metro station is Porta Garibaldi (M2, M5).