Weekend Family Guide to Milan

Visit the Duomo di Milano: Start your day at the heart of Milan with a visit to the Duomo, one of the largest and most stunning cathedrals in the world. Kids will be amazed by the intricate details of the Gothic architecture. Take the elevator (or stairs, if you’re feeling energetic) to the rooftop terraces for panoramic views of the city and a closer look at the cathedral’s famous spires and statues.

Explore Piazza del Duomo: After your visit to the Duomo, spend some time in the lively Piazza del Duomo. The square is always buzzing with activity, and there are often street performers that kids will enjoy watching.

Walk Through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Just steps from the Duomo is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls. The stunning glass and iron structure is home to luxury shops, cafés, and restaurants. Kids will enjoy the unique experience of walking through this grand arcade, and you can stop for a quick treat at one of the gelato shops.

Lunch at a Traditional Trattoria: For lunch, head to a family-friendly trattoria nearby, where you can enjoy classic Italian dishes like pizza, pasta, and risotto. Many restaurants in Milan offer children’s menus, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere makes them ideal for families.

Visit Castello Sforzesco: After lunch, make your way to Castello Sforzesco, a historic castle that now houses several museums and art collections. Kids will enjoy exploring the castle’s courtyards, towers, and moat. Inside, you can visit the Museum of Ancient Art, which includes fascinating displays of medieval armor and weaponry, sure to capture the imagination of younger visitors.

Relax in Parco Sempione: Adjacent to the castle is Parco Sempione, a large park with playgrounds, walking paths, and open spaces perfect for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll. The park also features an aquarium and a small lake where you can rent pedal boats, making it a great spot for some afternoon relaxation.

Dinner in Brera District: In the evening, head to the Brera district, known for its charming streets, artistic atmosphere, and excellent dining options. Choose a family-friendly restaurant where you can enjoy Milanese specialties such as ossobuco (braised veal) or cotoletta alla Milanese (breaded veal cutlet). Many restaurants in this area offer outdoor seating, perfect for soaking in the ambiance.

Evening Stroll Through Brera: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the Brera district. The area is full of art galleries, boutiques, and cafés, and the evening atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, making it a pleasant way to end your day.

Visit the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology: Start your second day with a visit to the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology, one of the largest science museums in Europe. The museum offers interactive exhibits on a wide range of topics, from space exploration to transportation. Kids will especially enjoy the sections dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions, which include models and hands-on activities.

Explore the Triennale di Milano: If your family enjoys art and design, the nearby Triennale di Milano is a great stop. The museum offers rotating exhibits focused on contemporary art, architecture, and design. The design-focused exhibits are often engaging for kids, and the museum is set within Parco Sempione, providing another opportunity to enjoy the park’s green spaces.

Picnic in Parco Sempione: If the weather is nice, pick up some sandwiches, cheese, and fruit from a local market and enjoy a picnic in Parco Sempione. The park’s wide-open spaces and playgrounds make it perfect for a relaxing family lunch.

Lunch at a Café: Alternatively, choose a nearby café for a casual lunch. Many cafés in Milan offer simple, yet delicious options like panini, salads, and pasta dishes that are perfect for a light midday meal.

Visit the Civico Planetario Ulrico Hoepli: After lunch, head to the Civico Planetario Ulrico Hoepli, Milan’s planetarium, located in the Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli. The planetarium offers shows and educational programs about astronomy that are both fun and informative for kids and adults alike.

Explore the Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli: After your visit to the planetarium, spend some time exploring the Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli, one of Milan’s most beautiful parks. The park features playgrounds, fountains, and plenty of space for kids to run around. The Natural History Museum, also located in the park, is another great stop, offering exhibits on dinosaurs, fossils, and the natural world.

Dinner in Navigli District: For your final evening in Milan, head to the Navigli district, known for its picturesque canals and vibrant nightlife. The area is home to many family-friendly restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Enjoy a relaxed dinner along the canal, where the kids can watch the boats and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Gelato Treat: End your day with a visit to a gelateria for some authentic Italian gelato. Let the kids choose their favorite flavors as you take a final stroll along the canals, soaking in the beauty of Milan at night.

Transportation: Milan’s public transportation system, including trams, buses, and the metro, is efficient and easy to use. Consider getting a family day pass for unlimited travel on public transport.

Book in Advance: For popular attractions like the Duomo and the Last Supper, it’s a good idea to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

Kid-Friendly Attractions: Milan has many child-friendly attractions beyond the main sites, such as the MUBA (Museo dei Bambini), an interactive children’s museum, and the Wow Spazio Fumetto, a comic book museum.