Non-Touristy Things to do in Milan in 2025

It's finally here: Your highly awaited trip to Italy! And a stop on your list? Milan!

You're there (or still planning), and now comes the real question. What should you do in this beautiful city?

From a couple of must-see things you shouldn't miss, to a bunch of non-touristy places to go, we have compiled a list of some of the sights most loved by visitors and locals alike.

Hidden treasures of Milan

Let's start with some of the most hidden spots in Milan. From maybe the most unique night out you will ever have to a creepier encounter...

Go to a cafe designed by Wes Anderson

Described by visitors as "whimsical" and celebrated for its strong coffee and indulgent cake, Bar Luce is housed in an old gin distillery on the Prada Foundation's complex. Can it get any cooler?

Actually, yes it can.

It was actually designed by the film-maven himself, the father of pastel aesthetics, the one and only Wes Anderson.

Have a drink in the smallest cocktail bar in the world

Speakeasy meets sardine tin? Not exactly, but it is a tight squeeze.

BackDoor43 claims the title of "the smallest cocktail bar in the world", at only 13 square feet. How many guests can they cater to at a time? About 2 to 4.

Reservations are required (you can imagine why). BackDoor43 has high praise on review sites and is recognized for its intimate setting, uniqueness, and its custom cocktails.

Oh, make sure you know the secret password ahead of time 👀

Enter a room decorated with bones

Or as most usually call it: An ossuary!

A small side chapel San Bernardino alle Ossa (a church in Milan) is decorated with human bones.

In the early 13th century, the local cemeteries were filling up, which led to the creation of this ossuary.

People who have visited the chapel have described it as peculiar, sinister, and "one of the most unusual chapels."

Lesser-known historical sites

For history buffs, there is plenty to see in Milan. There are the well-known sites you are bound to encounter on every "what to do in Milan" list, then there are some lesser-known attractions, like these.

See Roman ruins in Milan

While Rome is much further south than Milan, there are still Roman ruins to see.

Milan's Circo Romano was once the largest Roman Circus in existence!

Today, the remains are few, but you can still see some of the foundational work and architectural elements, and it is definitely worth the stop.

Built in the 3rd century, Milan's Circo Romano hosted large events, like chariot racing!

People who have visited Circo Romano have said that it was a nice glimpse into ancient times.

See who hears you in a medieval whispering gallery

Perhaps one of the strangest historical places you'll ever encounter is the Loggia dei Mercanti. This plaza was built in the Middle Ages and was used not only for commerce, but also as a way for the wealthy Merchants of the day to speak discreetly with one another.

Through its architecture, some unique acoustics were enabled that allow people to whisper in certain places and be heard in others.

See historic art in an eclectic style

The Palazzo Berri-Meregalli, or the Berri Meregalli House, is a historical landmark in Milan that anyone can visit.

Its eclectic mix of art nouveau and liberty aesthetics makes it worth a visit alone, but inside, there are mosaics, famous ironworks, gargoyles, and more.

Neighborhoods not to miss

Everyone knows about the historic city center, but what about some other places in Milan that you can wander aimlessly, popping into little shops and stopping for the occasional espresso?

Milan's Chinatown

Located in the Northern part of the city, Milan boasts Italy's largest and oldest Chinese Quarter.

With restaurants, shops, and things to see at every turn, you can easily spend an afternoon immersing yourself in Chinese-Italian life.

Reviews praise Milan's Chinatown for its authentic, vibrant vibes, street food, pedestrian-friendly walking lanes, and overall energy.

Walk the canals of the Navigli District

Built along medieval canals, Milan's Navigli District is the perfect place for a stroll, especially if you're hoping to find vintage markets, delicious aperitivos, and artsy vibes.

The canals were actually built to transport marble for the construction of the Duomo, and Leonardo Da Vinci himself built some of the lock systems.

While the area used to have many canals (Venice, anyone?), now many are buried, though there are still some that offer boat rides.

Get the perfect photo at Via Abramo Lincoln

Nicknamed "Milan's Notting Hill", this lesser-known street is famous for its colorful houses.

Walking through the street (which is quite long), you will see double-story, brightly colored homes. Just be conscientious because this is still a residential area that people live in to this day.

The must-sees of Milan

Ok, so this is supposed to be a list of non-tourist things to see in Milan, we know. But, it really didn't feel right to talk about incredible places to visit in Milan without mentioning two of the absolute must-sees.

The Last Supper painting by Leonardo Da Vinci

Hailed as one of the most treasured and loved paintings in the entire world, this 15th-century mural is usually described as "mesmerizing" and "unforgettable".

It is so cherished that it even has a full-time restorer, ensuring that the painting is cared for and maintained.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must for anyone who goes to Milan. Just make sure you book your tickets very early. Visits can sell out months in advance.

The Duomo di Milano Cathedral

Milan's most famous and eye-catching cathedral, the Duomo, is a non-negotiable.

This stunning feat holds thousands (yes, literally thousands) of statues, hundreds of gargoyles, an impressive crypt, and incredible archaeological sections that tourists can access should they like (with a ticket).

It took 600 years to build the Duomo (remember above, the canals?) and was an incredible effort.

Today, it is the third-largest church in Europe and 4th in the entire world.