Family-Friendly Adventures in Milan, Lombardy!

Da Vinci"s Last Supper (Il Cenacolo)

Why Visit?

For a memorable family visit to Da Vinci"s iconic *Last Supper*, located in Milan"s Santa Maria delle Grazie, start your day early to beat the crowds. Booking tickets in advance is essential as visits are limited to small groups to protect the painting. Tickets can be purchased online, ensuring entry at a specific time slot.

Getting there: The church is accessible via Milan"s efficient public transport system. Take the subway (Metro Red Line 1 or Green Line 2) to Cadorna station. From there, it"s a mere 10-minute walk to the church. Alternatively, tram lines 16 and 18 stop nearby at Corso Magenta - Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Before your visit, engage the kids with fascinating facts about the artwork. Did you know that *The Last Supper* covers an entire wall and measures about 29 feet × 15 feet? Leonardo used experimental techniques to create this masterpiece, which unfortunately led to its deterioration over time.

During your visit, take the time to absorb the details of the painting, particularly how Leonardo captured the emotional reactions of Jesus and his disciples. This can be a great moment to discuss with children how art can convey feelings and tell stories.

Post-visit, enjoy a stroll around the tranquil Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Don"t miss exploring the rest of the church, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Renaissance art itself.

Wrap up your visit with a relaxing family lunch at one of the nearby cafes, relishing Italian delicacies, and reflecting on the historical and cultural journey you’ve just experienced together.

This itinerary offers a blend of art, history, and family time, ensuring an enriching and memorable experience for all.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Milan Duomo

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Milan Duomo

Morning Arrival

Start your day early at the magnificent Milan Duomo, the beating heart of the city. This stunning Gothic cathedral, the largest in Italy and the fifth largest in the world, took nearly six centuries to complete. Reach the Duomo by taking the metro (M1 or M3 lines) to Duomo station, which directly lands you in the piazza.

Exploring the Cathedral

Purchase the Duomo Pass, which gives access to all parts of the complex. Begin with the cathedral itself. As you wander around, marvel at the intricate stained glass windows and the forest of pillars. Don"t miss the chance to see the nail from the Crucifixion, held in the dome above the altar.

Climbing the Rooftop

Next, head to the rooftop by elevator (or stairs for an energetic climb). Here, your family will be greeted by breathtaking views of Milan and the famous golden Madonnina spire, a symbol of the city. The kids will love spotting statues and gargoyles up close!

Midday Break

For lunch, head to the nearby Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world"s oldest shopping malls, boasting impressive architecture and a glass dome. Grab a bite at one of the local cafes and enjoy some Milanese cuisine.

Afternoon Activity

Post-lunch, visit the Duomo Museum (Museo del Duomo), just a few steps away. The museum showcases the cathedral’s history and art, including original sculptures and stained-glass windows. It’s a great way to dive deeper into the story behind what you’ve just explored.

Evening Wind-down

Conclude your day by strolling through the Piazza del Duomo, where street performers and artists add to the lively atmosphere, perfect for entertaining the kids and a relaxed end to your Duomo discovery tour.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Why Visit?

Welcome to a delightful family day out at the stunning Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, Italy!

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure by arriving at the Duomo Metro Station, which conveniently brings you directly to the Piazza del Duomo. Here, the majestic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls, stands right next to the impressive Milan Cathedral. Before you enter, take a moment to admire the breathtaking architecture of the Galleria, with its iconic glass and iron dome and intricate mosaics.

Explore and Discover

Step inside and stroll through the elegantly designed arcade, bathed in natural light. The Galleria is not only a paradise for shoppers but also a feast for architecture enthusiasts. Point out to your kids the beautiful mosaics on the floor, especially the bull from Turin"s coat of arms; legend has it that spinning three times on the bull’s testicles brings good luck!

Lunch Break

For lunch, choose from various eateries within the Galleria offering delightful Italian cuisines that cater to all taste buds. The historical café Biffi, founded in 1867, is a great spot to enjoy some Milanese specialties while soaking in the historical ambiance.

Afternoon Activities

Post lunch, indulge in some window shopping or visit the high-end boutiques for a souvenir. The Galleria hosts a range of stores from luxury brands to unique artisan shops.

Cultural Insight

Conclude your visit with a trip to the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology, just a short tram ride away. Engage with interactive exhibits and learn about the genius of da Vinci, a treat for curious minds of all ages.

Evening Wind Down

Return to the Galleria for an early dinner at one of its charming restaurants before catching the sunset from the steps of the Duomo, a perfect end to a memorable day exploring Milanese culture and history.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco)

Why Visit?

Welcome to a day full of adventure and history at the Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco) in Milan!

Morning Arrival

Start your day early by arriving at Sforza Castle around 9:00 AM to beat the crowds. The castle is easily accessible via the Milan Metro; take the red line (M1) and get off at Cairoli station, or the green line (M2) to Lanza station. Both are just a short walk from the castle.

Exploring the Castle

Once you’re at the castle, purchase a "Museum Pass" which gives you access to all the museums within. Start with the Museo d"Arte Antica where kids will be fascinated by the armory room, filled with medieval weapons and armor. Don’t miss seeing Michelangelo"s last sculpture, the Rondanini Pietà, housed here.

Next, explore the Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio) and the Museum of Musical Instruments (Museo degli Strumenti Musicali), both located within the castle. These are great for keeping children engaged with interactive exhibits.

Lunch Break

Around noon, enjoy a picnic in the Parco Sempione, the large park behind the castle. There’s plenty of space for kids to play and for you to relax.

Afternoon Activities

After lunch, visit the Civic Museum of Natural History located at the edge of Parco Sempione, just a 10-minute walk from the castle. Kids will love the dinosaur skeletons and the vast collections of minerals and fossils.

Evening Wind-Down

End your day with a stroll back to the castle and enjoy the beautiful sunset views from the castle walls or grab a gelato near Cairoli station before heading back to your accommodation.

Interesting Fact

Did you know that the Sforza Castle was once one of the largest citadels in Europe during the Renaissance? It was built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan, on the remnants of a 14th-century fortification.

Enjoy your educational and fun-filled day at Sforza Castle!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie (Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie)

Why Visit?

Embark on a memorable family excursion to the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, a precious gem housing one of the world"s most renowned artworks, Leonardo Da Vinci"s "The Last Supper."

Morning: Visit to The Last Supper

Start your day with a visit to see "The Last Supper," located in the refectory of the convent adjoining the church. Tickets must be booked well in advance due to the artwork"s immense popularity. The viewing is limited to 15 minutes to preserve the painting, providing a brief but unforgettable experience. Head to the official website to secure your tickets and choose an early time slot to avoid crowds.

How to get there: The church is easily accessible by tram (lines 16 and 24) or by subway (Conciliazione Metro Station on Line 1). If you’re driving, parking can be found nearby though public transport is recommended due to traffic and limited parking spaces.

Midday: Explore the Church and Nearby Attractions

After marveling at Da Vinci"s masterpiece, explore the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie itself. Admire its stunning architecture—a harmonious blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles. Don"t miss the beautiful dome designed by Bramante, a highlight of the church’s architecture.

Lunch Break

Enjoy lunch at a nearby café or restaurant. The area offers various family-friendly dining options with a range of Italian and international dishes.

Afternoon: Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology

A short walk from the church, visit the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology. This museum offers interactive exhibits that kids will love, focusing on Da Vinci’s work as an inventor, scientist, and artist.

End Your Day with a Relaxing Stroll

End your day with a stroll through the picturesque streets of Milan, perhaps stopping for some gelato or shopping at local boutiques.

This itinerary combines cultural enrichment with fun, making it perfect for a family outing in Milan"s historical heart. Enjoy your trip!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.