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Introduction to Milan Tour with the Duomo

The best of Milan with an expert guide including La Scala Theatre and shopping galleries
From US$381 privately
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Tour Details
Duration
3 hours
Product Type
Tour
Venues
  • Duomo - Cathedral of Milan
  • Sforza Castle
  • Santa Maria presso San Satiro
  • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele
  • La Scala Theater
Photos & Highlights
  • In-depth exploration of Milan through history, architecture, and religion
  • Led by a local historian
Tour Description
As the business hub of Italy and the fashion capital, we might assume that Milan is all contemporary dynamism. But beneath this surface energy lays an old city with a deep history that extends back through renaissance, medieval, and Roman times. During this three hour Milan walking tour, we'll join a local historian or expert for an in-depth look at Milan's history. We'll visit sites such as the renowned white marble Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, and the Sforza Castle while popping into medieval churches and admiring some Renaissance art. This is a great introductory tour, both for first-timers and repeat visitors looking to deepen their appreciation for the city.

Marvel at the Marble Duomo

We’ll begin at one of our favorite cathedrals in the world, the Duomo di Milano. As we enter this magnificent gothic structure, our guide will explain the building’s origins as well as the six hundred year timeframe of its completion. Together, we’ll admire the more than three thousand ornate statues on the facade and within. We’ll spend some time inside the cathedral: we might discuss the stained glass windows in Christendom, the politics behind the creation of this gothic structure (with many other influences) and the redesign of Milan’s canals in order to transport the tons of marble needed for its construction into the city. 

Renaissance Churches and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele

As we leave the spectacular edifice behind, we may pop into a lesser-known church moments away from the Duomo. Santa Maria Presso San Satiro is set apart from the bustling central district and would be easy to walk past unknowingly. Known for its unique architecture and work by Bramante, our guide will touch upon the renaissance style of design and the influence of such architects on Milan. We’ll then proceed through Piazza del Duomo to approach the grand arch of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. Our guide will talk about the construction and the architectural methods in place, such as the combination of iron and glass. The glittering designer stores surrounding us will offer a good diving-off point to talk about Milan’s status as a fashion capital. We may pop into the original Prada store, which opened in Milan in 1913 to touch on this theme further. (For a deeper dive into Italian fashion try our Milan Fashion Tour). We’ll follow in the footsteps of centuries of locals as we stroll down the passageway from the Duomo to Piazza del Duomo to Piazza di Marino as we reach La Scala Theater. We'll talk about Giuseppe Piermarini, the famous Italian architect behind the masterpiece. We may discuss the origins of the opera in Milan and why this city in particular rose to fame in the eighteenth century. We’ll talk about the key players associated with this opera house such as Verdi and Puccini, as well as the impact of WW2 bomb damage on this celebrated musical venue.

From Brera to the Castle

From here, our Milan Walking Tour may take a number of different directions depending on time and the proclivities of the group. We might head in the direction of San Maurizio to admire an early Christian church, totally rebuilt during Renaissance times. Alternatively, we could walk in the direction of Piazza San Fedele to talk about the 16th century church and the statue of Alessandro Manzoni, an important Italian literary figure. We may continue wandering in the direction of the Brera district to Palazzo Belgioioso, another Milanese architectural treasure (designed by the same architect as La Scala). Inspired by Luigi Vanvitelli’s Reggia di Caserta, the building was completed in 1781 as a stylish mansion for Alberico XII of Belgioioso. As we amble through the cobblestoned streets of Brera, our guide will talk about this particular neighborhood and the bohemian and leisurely style associated with it. Our last stop on our tour will certainly be the sturdy Sforza Castle, just by Parco Sempione. We’ll talk about the Sforza dynasty and their rule in Milan, the design of the castle’s defenses by Leonardo da Vinci, and the various museums and works on display in the surroundings. As we walk through ancient courtyards and grandiose spaces, we’ll harken back to the times of the Renaissance.

Take-Aways

Over the course of the walk, we will learn about the early beginnings of Milan and how the city has developed over the years. As we take in some of the most significant buildings, monuments, and ancient artifacts, the richness of Milan’s past will come to life.

FAQ

Where does it start and where does it end? We start near the Duomo (including going inside) and we will end at the Castle. We do not visit the inside rooms of the castle, however, you can explore these at your leisure after the tour finishes.

Does this include the Last Supper? This tour does not include the Last Supper.

Is this tour walking intensive, and/or wheelchair accessible? We do cover some ground on this tour, however, we can adjust according to the mobility of your group. Please contact us with any mobility questions; we will be happy to advise if this tour will be appropriate for you or propose modifications where necessary.

Is this tour appropriate for children? This walk is not a part of our official family program. That said, we may be able to arrange a visit with a family-friendly expert. Please contact us.

Do you reserve headsets for this tour? 
Depending on your group size, we may be required by the venue to order headsets in which case you’ll see a “Headset Fee” added to your order. 
Experts
Emanuela Emanuela
Local Guide
Giacomo Giacomo
Local Guide
Laura Laura
Art Historian
Veronica Veronica
Art Historian
Yulia Yulia
Local Guide
Barbara Barbara
Art Historian and Guide
Tiziana Tiziana
Art Historian
Valeria Sophia Valeria Sophia
Historian
Adriana Adriana
Art Historian
Luisa Luisa
Art Historian
Katerina Katerina
Local Guide
Giulia Giulia
Art Historian
Where You'll Start
(4.75) 69 Reviews

Reviews can only be left by Context customers after they have completed a tour. For more information about our reviews, please see our FAQ.

She made the tour extra interesting and she was very friendly
Our tour guide was amazing and her knowledge about the Duomo and the city area was incredible!
Katerina was an excellent source for explicating the depth of meaning of The Duomo and contextualizing in Milan's history.

Explore Milan's Rich History with Our Introduction to Milan Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey with our "Introduction to Milan Tour with the Duomo," a choice for first-timers to the City among our Milan Walking Tours. This tour immerses you in the rich tapestry of Milanese history and culture, guided by our expert historians and local guides. Begin your adventure at the iconic Duomo, marvel at its Gothic architecture, and delve into the fascinating stories behind its construction. Our tour not only covers the city's must-see sites but also provides deep educational insights, ensuring a truly enriching experience.

To enhance your trip, we recommend exploring our blog on What to Do in Milan for 3 Days, which offers a detailed itinerary to maximize your Milanese adventure. Additionally, prepare for your journey by watching our Italian Opera in Milan lecture to gain a deeper understanding of Milan's cultural heritage.

For those looking to make the most of their visit, our Introduction to Como Audio Guide offers an engaging way to explore the nearby Lake Como area at your own pace.

Book your Milan Walking Tour today and discover the stories, secrets, and splendors of this magnificent city.