Best Tours in Milan – Guided Experiences For Travelers

Art, architecture, food, and fashion – these are what draw travelers worldwide to the stunning streets of Milan. And what better way to explore all of these things than by going on the best tours in Milan? We’ve gathered the top 16 experiences to make your trip utterly unforgettable. But what makes them so worthwhile.

For starters, Milan is home to some of Italy’s main attractions, including the Duomo di Milano and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Tours enable you to discover more of these sights, and not only by helping with logistics and getting around. Sites in Italy aren’t very well-marked, so these Milan tours allow you to better understand what you’re looking at while out and about.

They also enable you to connect with the locals and their culture, immersing yourself in and understanding more about what makes the city special.

Now, let’s dive right into the top guided Milan tours.

General Milan Tour Recommendations

Before setting off to Milan, here are some useful tools to help make your tour booking process more seamless.

• LivTours – For private and semi-private (6 people or less) tours, LivTours is your go-to. Get 5% off with the code – Untold Italy.
• Withlocals – Withlocals offers unique private tours with local experts.
• Eating Europe – To explore the culinary scene, make sure to try Eating Europe.
• Fat Tire Tours – Fat Tire Tours is a must for fun bike and segway tours.
• Context Travel – Context Travel is perfect for informative scholar-led trips.
• GetYourGuide – There are plenty of options on GetYourGuide for larger group tours.
• VoiceMap – VoiceMap offers a range of self-guided audio guides.

Da Vinci’s Last Supper

Leonardo Da Vinci is one of the most prolific painters in history, and the Last Supper is a testament to his talent. It’s housed in the Last Supper Museum in the Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie and is undoubtedly one of Milan’s most visited attractions.

Since it gets so busy, you’ll need to pre-book tickets for the Last Supper well in advance. That said, here are a few tour options that will help you explore this masterpiece with ease.

LivTours – Express Milan Last Supper Tour

First, we have this LivTours semi-private express tour. This tour is nice and quick, so there is plenty of time to do other activities for the rest of the day. It includes a local expert who will accompany you to the Last Supper and explain the interesting facts and history behind Da Vinci’s masterpiece.

Kicking off in the early morning, your small group will have exclusive priority access to the original dining room, where the famous painting is displayed. Your tour group will be able to see it up close, which only a select few can do. After admiring the painting, explore the rest of the gorgeous Gothic Basilica at your leisure.

GetYourGuide – Da Vinci’s Last Supper Guided Tour

This next small group tour is another excellent option for viewing the Last Supper. It starts in the Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, just outside the ticket office, where you’ll meet your guide. The tour includes an entry ticket to the Last Supper and some headphones so you can listen to audio about the history of the painting.

Once inside the Basilica, you’re taken to the Last Supper to admire it and truly appreciate the work that went into it. You’ll learn about Da Vinci’s painting techniques, the site’s history, and more.

Duomo di Milano (Including Rooftop)

The Duomo di Milano is more than the everyday cathedral. It’s an architectural wonder that is equally impressive as it is breathtaking and a symbol of the city. If you want to tour the Duomo and gain exclusive access to the rooftop terrace with uninterrupted city views, then these tours are for you.

LivTours – Express Milan Duomo Tour with Terrace Access

It’s impossible to see the best of Milan without visiting the iconic Duomo. This tour lets you do just that while enjoying the perks of exploring with a private group. Start by admiring the cathedral’s grandeur from the outside, taking in the details of one of the world’s largest Gothic-style churches.

Then, skip the line to the interior, where you’ll see the architecture, artifacts, paintings, and sculptures. However, the highlight of this tour has to be the terrace. Again, skip the lines and head up the elevator to the terrace, where you can walk around on your own for a bit, enjoying breathtaking views of the city below.

LivTours – Milan Duomo Express Tour with Terrace Access

This next option is similar to the previous one but is semi-private (no more than six people per group). You’ll still see everything in the Duomo with a local expert, from the intricacies of the facade to the artwork inside, like the statue of St. Bartholomew. 

The same benefits of skipping the lines to gain priority entry to the Duomo and the terrace elevator are still on offer. Once you reach the terrace, explore it independently without your guide. Make sure to get as close as possible to the Madonnina statue – this golden statue is a beautiful standout.

GetYourGuide – Duomo Cathedral and Rooftop Terrace Guided Tour

Small groups should consider taking this guided tour, which includes access to the entire Duomo complex, including the terrace, the Duomo Museum, and San Gottardo Church. And there is no need to worry about the crowds, as, like most other tours, you get to skip the line.

It starts inside the cathedral, where you can learn about its history and admire key highlights and artwork, such as the Crucifix with the Madonna fresco or the Madonna of the Rose. From there, move up to the terrace to take amazing photos and marvel at the views. 

Afterward, you have priority access to the museum and San Gottardo Church. However, remember that these are unguided, so you’ll explore both on your own.

GetYourGuide – Milan Duomo and Rooftop 2-Hour Guided Tour

This final tour is for larger groups and is by far the longest, lasting around two hours. And trust me, the longer you spend at the Duomo di Milano, the better. After all, the site is quite large, and there’s a lot to see.

Start this tour in the piazza and meet your local English-speaking guide, who will be ready to take you through the entire cathedral. Once inside, admire the beauty of the religious artwork, stained glass windows, and statues while learning interesting historical facts.

The tour covers your fees and reserves your spot to access the terrace. What’s more, you’ll be taken through a special entrance onto the rooftop, avoiding the crowds entirely. Usually, you’ll exit the terrace from that entrance, too, but on some occasions, you may need to go down a separate staircase.

Fashion and Football Tours

The Milanese are no strangers to fashion and football. This city is one of the world’s most important fashion capitals and the birthplace of iconic brands like Versace, Gucci, and Dolce & Gabbana. It’s also home to two iconic football teams: AC Milan and Inter Milan.

So, if you’re interested in immersing yourself in these essential parts of Milan’s life and culture, give these tours a go.

Withlocals – Treasures of Milan: Fashion and Design Tour

Fashion is an integral part of Milan, and what better way to learn about it than with a private expert? This three-hour private walking tour will teach you about Milan’s most important fashion houses and the secrets behind the heritage of fashion design.

It includes information on Milanese fashion history, from Versace to Prada and even unknown boutiques. The experience is entirely customizable, so let your guide know what interests you, and they’ll help you along the way. For example, you can decide whether to visit quirky thrift stores or more luxury, high-end boutiques.

Of course, while on the walking tour, you’ll pass by local attractions, including San Vittore Prison and Roberta e Basta Art Gallery.

Withlocals – Milan With Your Personal Shopper

Walking tours are nice and all, but nothing beats a personalized private shopping trip, especially if you want to spoil yourself. This four-hour excursion is hosted by Sara, a professional fashion stylist, who’ll give a fantastic tour of the Fashion District while meeting local artisans.

Your local expert will take you to visit the best secret spots in town, including outlets selling high-end fashion brands, for some serious discounts (we’re talking 50% off). Alternatively, you could choose to shop from luxury stores directly.

When you’re done shopping, you can stop at a local café for coffee or gelato.

GetYourGuide – Official San Siro Stadium and Museum Guided Tour

Now, if you love soccer – or football, as they say in Europe – then you can’t skip out on this San Siro Stadium and museum tour. San Siro is the official stadium of two of Milan’s home teams, AC and Inter Milan, so it’s an absolute dream for fans.

The tour starts in the museum, with plenty of showcases, including team football jerseys and balls used by famous players over the years. Then, learn about the stadium’s history while walking through key areas, including the stands, the sidelines, the changing rooms, and the mixed zone. You’ll also walk onto the field through the tunnel, just like the players do before a match.

It ends with a tour of an exhibition called “Italia 110 & Lode,” dedicated to the Italian National Football Team, which houses original memorabilia gathered over the decades.

Food Tours

It doesn’t matter where you are in Italy – indulging in the local cuisine will always be on your to-do list. There are many restaurants and dishes to try, like Risotto alla Milanese at Osteria del Treno or the classic Osso Buco. The options may be overwhelming, so if you aren’t sure where or what to eat in Milan, these tours are a good starting point.

Withlocals – The 10 Tastings of Milan

If you’re looking for a well-rounded taste of Milan’s best food, then this private tour by Withlocals is just what you need. The three-hour excursion includes ten different tastings of both food and drinks, highlighting the best of Milanese cuisine and culture. Pass by some local attractions, including the Chiesa Santa Maria Incoronata and the Navigli canals.

Taste everything from classic Milanese focaccia to flavorful pizzas, charcuterie boards, wine, and coffee. Of course, no Italian food tour is complete without a taste of gelato. Plus, this tour caters to any dietary preference.

Eating Europe – Navigli Food and Drinks Tour

This next tour starts in the Navigli district, one of Milan’s best spots for eateries, bars, and an inviting nightlife. You’ll check out local gems selling award-winning pizza, freshly-cut carpaccio, and gorgonzola for tasting, all while taking in the views of the stunning canals.

Other Milanese classics you’ll try include farinata, a delicious savory chickpea pancake, or risotto alla Milanese. Tours are vegetarian-friendly, but they may not always cater to vegan or kosher diets. The tastings are all subject to the season and availability, but no matter what, you’re guaranteed some mouthwatering treats.

Milan in a Day Tours

If you’re short on time, you can still make the most of your vacation by visiting the most popular city wonders, and luckily, this can be done all in one day. Here are a couple of all-inclusive day excursions through Milan.

LivTours – All-Inclusive Full Day Tour of Milan with Last Supper

This small group excursion by LivTours is one of the top Milan city tours and includes its highlights in one convenient package. It’s a semi-private tour for no more than six people and will take eight hours to complete.

On this tour of Milan, you’ll see places like the Duomo di Milano (terrace included), Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper, La Scala Theater, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Additionally, you’ll explore the impressive Sforzesco Castle, which holds one of Michelangelo’s most popular works, the Pietà Rondanini sculpture, one of the three Pietà statues he created.

Undoubtedly, you’re going to get a little hungry throughout the day. Don’t worry – there will be time to take a break for lunch between travels. Make sure to check with your guide and see where they recommend you eat!

LivTours – All-Inclusive Full Day Milan Tour with Last Supper and Duomo

What’s better than a semi-private Milan day tour? A private one, of course. LivTours once again comes through with a fantastic way to discover the top attractions of the city, allowing you to admire art, architecture, and fashion hotspots.

The day starts with priority access to the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, where you’ll take some time to admire the Last Supper. From there, you’ll have a break for lunch at a local eatery before heading to the Duomo, where you’ll skip the lines and gain access to the exclusive terrace on top. End with a visit to the Galleria, La Scala Theater (outside only), and Sforzesco Castle.

If that isn’t enough, if you need, you can pay an additional fee for hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Day Trips From Milan

This city is a good place to set base if you’d like to visit other locations in northern Italy. These day trips from Milan are a great addition to your travel plans. Whether you want to go from Milan to Lake Como or take a train through the Swiss Alps, these trips have you covered.

LivTours – VIP Lake Como Boat Tour From Milan

There are plenty of things to do in Lake Como, one of which is going on a VIP private boat tour like this one. You’ll spend the day out and about on Lake Como, starting with a private chauffeur fetching you right from your hotel. After about an hour’s drive, you’ll meet your captain and venture out onto the brilliant blue waters.

For four hours, you’ll be on Lake Como, taking in the Renaissance architecture and colorful buildings along the shore and admiring the dramatic mountain views unlike anywhere in Italy.

Afterward, you’ll take a break in the village of Bellagio. This village is small but incredible and is often considered one of the most romantic places in Italy. While you’re there, visit any restaurant you like and buy souvenirs at local stores.

When you’re done, set off to Milan and be back in time for dinner in the city.

GetYourGuide – Como, Lugano, and Bellagio Exclusive Boat Cruise

For the next leg of your adventure, why not venture out of Italy and visit Switzerland as well? This group tour is one of the best day tours from Milan and includes a visit to some gorgeous locations, including Como, Bellagio, and Lugano. It includes round-trip transportation by bus and a luxury boat cruise across Lake Como.

Start by touring the highlights of Como, like the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, and then move on to the small town of Tremezzo. From there, you’ll go to Bellagio for a delicious lunch and some free time to sightsee even more.

Your final destination before heading back to Milan is Lugano, a picturesque Swiss town just under two hours away. There’s no denying Lugano is lovely to look at, but the real treat is being able to spend part of your day immersing yourself in the mix of Swiss and Italian culture. Oh, and there’s a Swiss chocolate tasting, too.

GetYourGuide – Bernina Train and St. Moritz Day Trip

Let’s round off this list of incredible tours with an unforgettable trip on the iconic red Bernina Express. This small-group excursion takes you sightseeing on one of the most scenic trains from Italy to Switzerland.

You’ll get picked up in Milan by bus and go to the small town of Tirano on the Italian-Swiss border. After a quick walking tour of the town, you’ll board the famous red Bernina train and take a trip of around two and a half hours. The train is pretty comfortable, and there will be more than one opportunity to take some scenic photos of the snowcapped Alps.

The train stops in Saint Moritz, a luxurious resort town, where you’ll have plenty of time to explore before heading back. The tour doesn’t include food, but don’t worry. There are plenty of places to eat in St. Moritz that you can enjoy in your spare time, like Ristorante Da Adriano.

Wrapping Up Italy’s Best Milan Tours

Now that you’ve had a look at each of these tours, I’m sure there’s no denying why they are the perfect addition to your Milan itinerary. Whether you want to take in the sights of the Swiss Alps, indulge in local cuisine, or admire the art and architecture of the Duomo, these experiences are once in a lifetime.

And when you’re done with your adventure through Milan, why not head down to the Eternal City of Italy and try out some of the best tours in Rome? You won’t regret it!

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