Posted: 11/28/23 | November 28th, 2023
Milan is one of the design and fashion capitals of the world. But it has more to offer than just luxe fashion and vintage clothing markets.
An influential city during the Italian Renaissance (and currently the second-largest in Italy), Milan is home to a stunning cathedral (that took over 500 years to complete), the 15th-century Sforzesco Castle (which houses Michelangelo’s last sculpture), and Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, located inside Santa Maria delle Grazie church.
There is no shortage of history and culture here. One of the best ways to see everything in the city is with a walking tour. There’s a lot to see and connecting with an expert local guide will help you get a deeper understanding of the city.
Here’s my list of the best walking tours in Milan to help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit!
Best Overall Tour
Take Walks
I’ve taken Walks tours all over Europe and it is, by far, my favorite tour company. Their tours are both fun and educational and always manage to go above and beyond. Their Best of Milan tour covers the main sights, such as the Duomo and The Last Supper (for which it includes skip-the-line tickets). At three hours, it’s super fun and informative. The guides really know their stuff too!
Best Free Tour
Sandeman’s New Europe
If you’re on a budget, New Europe is the best free walking tour company in Milan. It runs a daily highlights tour, led by a certified guide, that lasts three hours and is a good introduction to the city. It covers all the big highlights, like the Duomo and the Opera House, as well as some lesser-known sights. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
Here are a few more walking tour options to help you make the most of your time in Milan:
1. GT Tours
If you just want to see Leonardo da Vinci’s painting and aren’t interested in anything else, GT Tours runs an hour-long Last Supper guided tour. You’ll get to see this UNESCO World Heritage work up close and learn about its history and significance from an expert local guide. As part of the tour, you’ll get a timed ticket to admire this famous 15th-century painting, with a 15-minute slot, so you won’t be rushed along.
Tours from 48 EUR.
2. Milanoguida
To dive deep into learning about Milan’s stunning Duomo, take this two-hour Cathedral Rooftop tour. You’ll get skip-the-line admission to the building, which boasts over 3,500 statues, 135 spires, and five bronze doors, as well as access to the rooftop, where you can take in amazing views of the city. You’ll also get a headset so you can listen to your guide as you explore the rooftop area, admiring its spires, statues, and gargoyles.
Tours from 49 EUR.
3. Italy Hidden Experiences
For a more off-the-beaten path tour, Italy Hidden Experiences runs a two-hour Milan by Night tour that covers some less-visited destinations, showcasing stories and secrets of historic noble families. There are also a few spooky ghost stories thrown in for good measure too!
If a nighttime ghost tour isn’t your thing, there’s also a 90-minute guided tour of Sforza Castle. It was one of the largest citadels in Europe during the 16th and 17th centuries and where you’ll find Michelangelo’s final sculpture, Rondanini Pietà, completed in 1564. You’ll learn a ton about both Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci on this tour.
Tours from 44 EUR.
4. Cantina Urbana Milano
Italy is known for its world-class wine. To sample some of Milan’s best, head out on a guided wine tasting tour. You’ll get to visit four venues and try a variety, all paired perfectly with some tasty local fare. On this two-hour tour, you’ll learn about winemaking methods, sample authentic local products, and be able to ask questions of a professional sommelier.
Tours from 40 EUR.
5. Sarah Zarillo Tours
To experience Milan’s famous fashion scene, sign up for this Vintage Shopping tour. It’s 3-4 hours long and takes you to a few neighborhoods, where you can browse cool vintage shops while learning about the local fashion scene. There are budget offerings as well as more high-end vintage items. At the end of the tour, your guide will give you a list of other stores worth checking out as well.
Tours from 60 EUR.
While Take Walks is my favorite company in the city, you can’t go wrong with any of the tours on this list. They’ll ensure you have a deeper, more nuanced visit as you explore alongside a local guide who can share their insider tips and advice. I always take a walking tour when I visit Milan. You should too!
Book Your Trip to Milan: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
- Safety Wing (best for everyone)
- Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
- Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)
Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.
Need a Guide?
Rome has some really interesting tours. My favorite company is Take Walks. They have expert guides and can get you behind the scenes at the city’s best attractions.
Want More Information on Milan?
Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Venice for even more planning tips!
