West Milan is a district of the city of Milan. West Milan is the part of the city that embraces its only UNESCO World Heritage Site, which includes the famous Last Supper fresco. Other attractions are a monumental cemetery, and the old fairground where one might end up if one is visiting Milan on a business trip.
How to get here
West Milan includes the main hub of the Trenord railway network:
Milan Cadorna station.
The Metro is a convenient way to reach
most points of interest in this area. Quite a few stops on the red line
(M1) of the Metro are located in the western part of Milan. Green line
(M2) leads to Cadorna, not far from Parco Sempione and Santa Maria delle
Grazie.
Museums
1 National Museum of Science and Technology, Via S. Vittore
(Reachable by bus or metro, M2: Sant'Ambrogio station). Large museum
with many sections including the one dedicated to aviation, ships and
submarines, trains and means of data transmission. Reservations are
required to visit the Toti submarine (6 people are allowed on board at a
time), but the visit is certainly very interesting. The museum is housed
in a former monastery, San Vittore al Corpo. Guided tours and workshops
for the little ones are also available.
2 Triennale di Milano, Via
Alemagna (bus 61; metro M2 Cadorna-Triennale station; or walking through
Parco Sempione from Castello Sforzesco). Museum of design and
architecture, always has 4/6 exhibitions on the theme of design,
photography or modern art, at least 1/2 of which are always free
admission.
3 Civic Aquarium of Milan, Viale Gadio 2, ☎ +39 02 88 44
5392, c.acquario@comune.milano.it. Housed in an Art Nouveau building,
the aquarium was built for the Milan Universal Exposition of 1906 and
was restored in 2003. The new exhibition itinerary of the Aquarium tells
the story of water from when atmospheric precipitation flows into a
mountain stream up to the sea, through the main environments that are
formed.
Churches and other buildings
4 Santa Maria delle Grazie, Via Giuseppe Antonio Sassi, 3 (tram
20-24-29-30; metro M2 Cadorna station, or M1 Conciliazione station), ☎
+39 02-8942-1146. It houses the famous Last Supper (Cenacolo Vinciano)
by Leonardo da Vinci. Better to book tickets a few months before the
visit. Canceled bookings are sold from 8.15am each morning (if there are
any, it's best to show up in person). The church and the frescoes are
inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
5 Last Supper (Leonardo
da Vinci) (Cenacolo Vinciano), Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2
(Entrance next to the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie - tram
20-24-29-30; metro M2 Cadorna station, or M1 Conciliazione station) , ☎
+39 02 80294401, pm-lom.cenacolovinciano@beniculturali.it. Tickets with
reservations required: tel. +39 02 92800360 or online - FULL: € 10.00 (+
€ 2.00 for booking fee) - REDUCED: € 5.00 (+ € 2.00 for booking fee) -
Guided tours: booking tel. +39 02 9280036002 or +39 02 92800360. Visits
last 15 minutes for a maximum number of 30 people at a time. From
Tuesday to Sunday: 8.15 - 19.00 all day (last admission 18.45) - Closed:
every Monday, January 1st, May 1st and December 25th. The Last Supper is
a wall painting obtained with a dry mixed technique on plaster (460×880
cm) by Leonardo da Vinci, datable to 1495-1498 and kept in the former
Renaissance refectory. This is the most famous representation of the
Last Supper, a masterpiece by Leonardo and the Italian Renaissance.
6
Palazzo del Sole 24 Ore, Via Monte Rosa 91. An office building that
houses the business magazine Sole 24 Ore. An example of modern Italian
architecture.
7 Messina Tram Depot, Via Messina 39. The tram depot is
an example of 20th-century Italian industrial architecture with an
imposing ceiling formed by an iron grid.
8 Villa Simonetta, Via
Stilicone 36. Renaissance patrician villa, it was built at the end of
the 15th century and then enlarged and restructured several times. Today
the villa is owned by the municipality and is the seat of the "Claudio
Abbado" Civic School of Music. Two side wings with porticoes were added
to the main rectangular body of the villa as early as the 16th century,
giving the villa its current U-shaped plan. The loggia was also added
which today characterizes the facade. The villa functioned as a candle
factory, opera house and hospital, now houses a music school.
9
Gianni Brera Civic Arena, viale Giorgio Byron, 2. designed by the
neoclassical architect Luigi Canonica, it is a multifunctional sports
facility inaugurated on 18 August 1807, still one of the most notable
monuments of the city.
Monuments
Monuments
10 Monumental Cemetery, Piazzale Cimitero Monumentale (Monumental
stop M5). free. Old cemetery of Milan in neoclassical style. Designed by
the architect Carlo Maciachini in an eclectic style combining Byzantine,
Gothic and Romanesque references, the cemetery was built between 1864
and 1866. Full of sumptuous sculptures, mausoleums and imposing
monuments. Here are buried some of the most important personalities of
Milan such as Alessandro Manzoni, Gae Aulenti, Arrigo Boito, Arturo
Toscanini, Dario Fo, Giorgio Gaber, Filippo Tommaso Marinetti and
Filippo Turati.
11 Arco della Pace (Porta Sempione) (NW corner of
Parco Sempione). The triumphal arch of peace is located where one of the
seven gates of the city of Milan once stood. Previously the arch was
known as Porta Giovia and was located near the city centre. Porta
Sempione means "Gateway to Simplon", and the road that led over the
Simplon Pass to Paris once passed through this gate. The current gate
was built at the beginning of the 19th century and has since been
baptized as the Arco della Pace.
12 Torre Branca - Sempione Park,
Torre Branca, avenue at the Luigi Camoens Park. The Torre Branca is a
steel construction located inside Parco Sempione in Milan. With its
108.60 meters it is the tenth tallest accessible structure in the city.
The tower has a truncated pyramid shape with a hexagonal section and is
built entirely of Dalmine steel tubes. It was inaugurated with the name
of "Torre Littoria". Today a very modern lift system located in the
center of the tower allows five visitors at a time to climb to the
covered belvedere top in less than 1 minute, and is surrounded by a
staircase for maintenance and emergencies.
Parks
13 Parco Sempione (Behind the Castello Sforzesco. Reachable from the Cairoli, Lanza, Cadorna or Moscova stations depending on which side of the park you have to go to). A large green space and one of the most famous and popular in the city. Landscaped garden designed in the neoclassical style, in which you can find: a lake, the arch of peace, a Roman amphitheater, a tower (which today houses the Just Cavalli Hollywood) and several other interesting things. A pleasant, leafy place to enjoy a stroll at any time of year.
Streets, squares and areas
14 Corso Magenta (The closest metro stations are Conciliazione,
Cadorna, Cairoli and Cordusio). An elegant and stately street in the
north-west part of Milan. It contains sophisticated cafés and shops, and
also some fine buildings, mostly Baroque, notably the Palazzo Litta; one
of the best examples of 18th century Milanese architecture, and also a
place where Napoleon spent some time. Very close to the Corso is the
famous church and convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, where Leonardo da
Vinci's Last Supper is located.
15 Piazzale Luigi Cadorna (Cadorna FN
Station). A normal medium-sized square in the center of Milan with the
modern North Station and some beautiful buildings, but above all with a
series of particular modern sculptures in the centre.
16 Chinatowns.
Not as big or famous as those in London or New York, but Milan also has
its Chinatown, dating back to the 1920s.
City Life area
This area (currently under construction, with completion expected in
2015) will be made up of skyscrapers and residential and commercial
buildings, moreover more than half of the area will be dedicated to
parks. Part of this project will also be a Museum of Contemporary Art. A
new metro stop (Tre Torri) on an extension of the M5 line will connect
this area to the city centre.
17 Hadid Residences. Designed by
Zaha Hadid and completed, but not yet in use.
18 Libeskind
Residences. Designed by Daniel Libeskind and construction completed.
19 Isozaki Tower (The Straight One). At the moment it is not accessible
and not yet fully completed, but since it is 207 m high with 50 floors
it can be seen from afar. Designed by Arata Isozaki. edit
Torre Branca sits on Via Camoens inside Parco Sempione, close to the
Triennale design museum. This elegant 108.6-meter steel lattice tower
was designed by the renowned architect Gio Ponti (with engineers Cesare
Chiodi and Ettore Ferrari) and built in a remarkable 68 working days for
the 1933 Milan Triennale. Originally called Torre Littoria, its height
was deliberately kept just below the Madonnina on the Duomo so that “the
human would not surpass the divine.” After years of closure it was
restored and reopened in 2002 with support from the Branca family
(makers of Fernet-Branca), taking its current name. A quick elevator
ride reaches the observation deck, from which you get one of Milan’s
best 360-degree views: the Duomo, Castello Sforzesco, the modern towers
of Porta Nuova and CityLife, and, on clear days, the Alps, the
Apennines, and the Po Valley.
How to have fun nearby
1. Bar
Bianco
Viale Enrico Ibsen 4 (inside Parco Sempione)
Tel. +39 02
8699 2026 · info@bar-bianco.com
Cash only. Nestled among the park’s
trees since the 1954 Triennale, this stylish two-level spot is a Milan
classic for everything from morning coffee to late-night drinks. Expect
a fashionable crowd, outdoor terraces, aperitivo, and an atmosphere that
often feels like a permanent holiday. Perfect after climbing the tower
or strolling the park.
2. Frescobar
Via Bramante 9 (Chinatown /
Paolo Sarpi area).
A lively neighborhood option in the heart of
Milan’s Chinese quarter.
3. The Saloon
Via Niccolini 24 (also in
the Chinatown area).
Another local favorite for a more casual night
out in the same vibrant district.
4. Honky Tonks
Via Fratelli
Induno 10 (near Corso Sempione / Fiera area)
Tel. +39 02 3452562 ·
Mon–Sat 6 pm–2 am.
Despite the name, this is no pure country bar.
Think warm, atmospheric lounge with jazz in the background, well-made
cocktails, and Tex-Mex style food. A solid choice for an evening drink
and relaxed bite close to the park.
5. Roialto
Via Piero della
Francesca 55
Tel. +39 02 3493 6616.
Behind a plain exterior lies a
spacious, stylish cocktail bar and restaurant that long ranked among
Milan’s better spots for after-work drinks or a pre-club stop
(especially if heading toward places like the Leopard). High ceilings,
comfortable seating, and a classic Milanese social energy.
6. Bar
Magenta
Via Carducci 13 (corner of Corso Magenta).
A true Milanese
institution since 1907. This historic Liberty-style bar near
Sant’Ambrogio and Santa Maria delle Grazie draws everyone from students
and office workers to longtime locals. Come for coffee, generous panini
(the “speciale” is legendary), aperitivo, or a late drink in a setting
that still feels like old Milan.
Modest prices
1. Pizzeria Da Giuliano
Via Paolo Sarpi 60 (on
the westernmost side of the street, in the heart of Milan’s Chinatown),
☎ +39 02 341 630.
A long-standing neighborhood classic (open since
1969) known for excellent wood-fired pizza al trancio. The pizzas are
thick, soft and generously topped, with a crisp base. You can choose
your own combination of ingredients and have a custom pizza ready in
minutes. The atmosphere is simple, warm and slightly old-school, with
wooden furnishings and a casual, local feel. It remains one of the most
reliable and affordable places for a solid pizza in this part of the
city. Closed Mondays; open for lunch and dinner the rest of the week.
Takeaway and delivery available.
Average prices
In western
Milan, Via Carlo Ravizza stands out for its unusually high concentration
of restaurants. Along a stretch of roughly 200 meters you’ll find more
than 30 places offering Italian, South American, Chinese, fusion and
other cuisines, plus pizzerias and takeaway spots. Locals have nicknamed
it “Via Rapizza” because of this dense cluster of eateries, making it a
convenient area when you want variety without traveling far.
High
prices
3. Just Cavalli Hollywood
Via Luigi Camoens (inside/at the
base of the Branca Tower in Parco Sempione; Metro: Cadorna is the
closest stop, Lanza is also nearby), ☎ +39 02 311817.
Created by
fashion designer Roberto Cavalli, this is both a stylish restaurant and
a well-known nightlife venue. The setting combines modern
glass-and-steel architecture with the designer’s signature glamorous
touches (animal prints, dramatic lighting). Starters often include
cheeses, tuna tartare, Parma ham and caviar. Main courses feature pasta
and risotto dishes, crab dumplings, various seafood preparations, veal,
steaks and salads. The venue also has multiple bars and dance floors,
and in summer the outdoor areas come alive. It attracts a fashionable
crowd and works well for dinner that can transition into a night out.
4. Armando’s (Trattoria Da Armando)
Via Marghera 34, ☎ +39 02
4813482.
A traditional Milanese trattoria in the western part of the
city. It offers classic Italian home-style cooking in a straightforward,
unpretentious setting. While less flashy than some of the high-profile
spots nearby, it serves as a reliable option for those seeking more
conventional trattoria fare in the area.
Modest prices
1. Hotel Panizza
Via Bartolomeo Panizza 5,
Magenta district (central Milan)
Tel: +39 02 4690604 | Fax: +39 02
43400460 | Email: info@hotelpanizza.it
A charming 3-star hotel set on
the second floor of a 19th-century historic building in the residential
Magenta quarter. It offers around 16–22 renovated rooms with wooden
floors, decorated ceilings, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, free
Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. Some rooms feature balconies or terraces.
Guests appreciate the free buffet breakfast, quiet location, and
excellent value.
The hotel sits just a few minutes’ walk from the
Conciliazione metro station (Line 1), Santa Maria delle Grazie (home to
Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper), Castello Sforzesco, and
Fieramilanocity. The Duomo is only three metro stops away. Ideal for
budget-conscious travelers seeking a central yet peaceful base.
Average prices
2. Hotel Wagner
Via Michelangelo Buonarroti 13
Tel: +39 02 463151 | Fax: +39 02 48020948 | Email:
info@hotelwagnermilano.it
A well-located 3- or 4-star property
(depending on classification) near the Wagner metro station, offering
easy connections to the Duomo and other key sites. Rooms typically
include air conditioning, satellite TV, mini-bar, and private bathrooms
with hairdryers. Facilities include a bar, 24-hour front desk, laundry
service, and free Wi-Fi.
The hotel is popular for its convenient
position close to Corso Vercelli shopping area, CityLife, and
fairgrounds, making it suitable for both tourists and business visitors.
3. Admiral Hotel (Art Hotel Admiral)
Via Domodossola 16 (about 3 km
northwest of the Duomo, opposite the former Fiera Milano / near CityLife
and MiCo)
Tel: +39 02 3492151 | Fax: +39 02 33106660
A historic
family-run 4-star hotel (opened 1972, now in its third generation) with
approximately 60 uniquely themed rooms featuring parquet floors,
flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and stylish décor inspired by cinema,
sports, motors, fashion, and comics. Many rooms offer distinctive
character.
Located steps from Milano Nord Domodossola station and
metro, CityLife shopping district, and the exhibition/convention area.
Guests highlight the friendly staff, bar, and good breakfast options.
Singles have historically started around €130 and doubles from €180
(rates vary by season).
4. Hotel Roma
Via Poliziano 2 (corner of
Via Roma), Cesano Boscone (southwest of central Milan)
Tel: +39 02
4581805 | Fax: +39 02 4500473 | Email: info@hotelromamilano.it
A
renovated 4-star hotel with about 34 rooms (plus suites), equipped with
modern amenities including air conditioning, LCD satellite TVs,
mini-bars, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. Many rooms have balconies.
Facilities include a bar, restaurant, business services, and parking.
Situated in an industrial/commercial area with good highway access, it
is convenient for the Rho-Pero exhibition center and San Siro, while
remaining connected to central Milan by public transport or short
car/taxi rides. Suitable for business travelers and those seeking
quieter surroundings outside the densest tourist zones.
5. Hotel
Losanna
Via Piero della Francesca 39
Tel: +39 02 316272 | Fax: +39
02 3315146 | Email: info@hotellosanna.com
A modern 3-star hotel
opposite the Fieramilanocity area, offering spacious rooms with
orthopedic beds, air conditioning, LCD satellite TVs, free Wi-Fi, and
private bathrooms. Amenities include a buffet breakfast, 24-hour
reception, bar, garden, and nearby partner parking.
Excellent public
transport links (trams, Domodossola station/metro nearby) make it easy
to reach the center, Sempione, and exhibition venues. Popular for fair
visitors and those wanting solid mid-range comfort with good
connectivity.
High prices
6. Hotel Capitol
Via Cimarosa 6
(near the exhibition center, financial district, airport shuttle links,
and Pagano metro)
Tel: +39 02 438591 | Fax: +39 02 43859700 | Email:
info@capitolmilano.com
An elegant 4-star hotel with 66 stylishly
furnished rooms and suites featuring classic décor, warm colors, air
conditioning, mini-bars, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and bathrooms
often equipped with hydromassage showers or spa baths. Facilities
include a restaurant serving Italian cuisine, a lively bar (with evening
aperitifs), fitness area, concierge, laundry, and meeting rooms.
Located on a quiet yet upscale residential/shopping street near Corso
Vercelli, it offers convenient access to Fieramilanocity (a few metro
stops), CityLife, Castello Sforzesco (around 15 minutes on foot), and
the historic center. A refined choice for travelers seeking comfort and
a more polished atmosphere.