Renaissance Architecture of Milan Private Guided Tour
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Meet Leonardo da Vinci, Donato Bramante, and other ‘Renaissance men’ on a guided tour of Renaissance architecture and art in Milan's Old Town. See the Sforza Castle, Duomo and more.
Choose one of our excellent tour options tailored to your needs and interests:
2-hour: Renaissance Architecture Tour
Choose this tour to see highlights of Renaissance Milan, such as the Sforza Castle (exterior), and visit the Church of Santa Maria presso San Satiro.
3-hour: Renaissance Architecture & Church of San Maurizio
Choose this tour to see highlights of Renaissance Milan and visit the Church of Santa Maria presso San Satiro and San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore.
Renaissance architecture and art flourished in 15th-17th century Milan, representing the city’s political, cultural, religious and economic aspirations. Join this original tour to discover the most impressive Renaissance monuments and hear the stories of famous Italian architects and artists who crafted the iconic cityscape of Milan.
Available options
3H:RenaissanceArchit&ChurchSan
Duration: 3 hours: Choose this tour to see highlights of Renaissance Milan and visit the Church of Santa Maria presso San Satiro and<br/>,: San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore.<br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language. ITMI018
2H: Renaissance Architecture
Duration: 2 hours: Choose this tour to see highlights of Renaissance Milan, such as the Sforza Castle (exterior),<br/>,: and visit the Church of Santa Maria presso San Satiro. <br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language. ITMI018
What's included
(number of attractions depends on the selected option)
Private Walking Tour of the Renaissance Architecture Highlights in Milan's Old Town
Free or paid admission to the Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore (only in 3-hour option)
Architecture Expert-Guide who is fluent in the language of your choice
Free admission to the courtyards of the Sforza Castle
Free admission to the Chiesa di Santa Maria presso San Satiro
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Meet your guide in front of Fontana di Piazza Castello
2
Stop 2
The tour includes a visit to the Church of Santa Maria presso San Satiro, which is known for beautiful Renaissance frescoes and clever design that creates an optical illusion of more space.
3
Stop 3
You will also see the iconic Duomo, which is one of the world's largest and most beautiful Gothic cathedrals but also incorporates some elements of Renaissance architecture.
4
Stop 4
Finally, you will pass the medieval heart of the city, Piazza Mercanti, and head to the courtyards of the Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco) to discover more facts and myths about the Milanese Renaissance.
5
Stop 5
Enrich your Renaissance experience with a visit to the beautiful Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, known as the Sistine Chapel of Milan! It is a hidden gem with wall frescoes painted by students of Leonardo da Vinci, the most famous 'Renaissance man'. Explore its awe-inspiring interior and learn about the Renaissance art movement in Italy.
6
Stop 6
Discover the best selected highlights of Renaissance Milan. Your tour begins at the square in front of the Basilica of San Lorenzo, where you can appreciate the contrast between the Basilica's Baroque-Renaissance architecture and the ancient Roman Columns of St Lawrence. As you follow your Private Guide on the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, you will learn more about the city’s transition from the Middle Ages to modernity.
What's not included
Tickets to the Sforza Castle
Admission to the Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore (only in 2-hour option)
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
EN
IT
PL
FR
ES
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Wheelchair accessible
Please check your email the day before the tour to receive important information.
Please note that the number of attractions depends on the selected option. A visit to the Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is not included in the basic 2-hour tour.
Please arrive on time. Admission to San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore in larger groups requires booking a time slot in advance. Late arrival will result in the loss of the booking fee so you will not be able to see the interiors of the church.
Church tours during scheduled events (such as the daily, Sunday and holiday masses) are limited, so the entire or parts of the building may be closed on your visit.
The Church of Santa Maria presso San Satiro is usually open daily from 7 am to 7 pm, but as the church’s opening hours are limited, we cannot guarantee an entry.
The Courtyards of the Sforza Castle are open daily from 7 am to 7:30 pm. Please book the starting time accordingly. The itinerary excludes tickets to the Sforza Castle Museums.
Meeting point
Meet your guide in front of Fontana di Piazza Castello
Important notes
Know Before You Go:
- Please check your email the day before the tour to receive important information.
- Please note that the number of attractions depends on the selected option. A visit to the Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is not included in the basic 2-hour tour.
- Please arrive on time. Admission to San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore in larger groups requires booking a time slot in advance. Late arrival will result in the loss of the booking fee so - you will not be able to see the interiors of the church.
- Church tours during scheduled events (such as the daily, Sunday and holiday masses) are limited, so the entire or parts of the building may be closed on your visit.
- The Church of Santa Maria presso San Satiro is usually open daily from 7 am to 7 pm, but as the church’s opening hours are limited, we cannot guarantee an entry.
- The Courtyards of the Sforza Castle are open daily from 7 am to 7:30 pm. Please book the starting time accordingly. The itinerary excludes tickets to the Sforza Castle Museums.
About Milan
Milan, the vibrant capital of Lombardy, is a city where ancient history meets modern luxury. Known for its fashion, art, and design, Milan is a dynamic metropolis that offers a rich cultural experience and a thriving culinary scene.
Top Attractions
Duomo di Milano
The Milan Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and the third-largest church in the world. It took nearly six centuries to complete and is a symbol of the city.
Architecture/Religious
1-2 hours
€10-€15
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
This historic shopping gallery is one of the world's oldest and most beautiful. It features luxury boutiques, cafes, and the famous mosaic floor of the bull.
Architecture/Shopping
1 hour
Free to enter, shopping varies
Santa Maria delle Grazie
This church and convent house Leonardo da Vinci's famous mural, The Last Supper. The painting is a masterpiece of Renaissance art and a must-see for art lovers.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
€10-€15 (advance booking required)
Castello Sforzesco
This medieval castle was built by the Duke of Milan and later renovated by Ludovico Sforza. It houses several museums and art collections, including works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
Historical/Architecture
2-3 hours
€5-€10
Teatro alla Scala
One of the world's most famous opera houses, Teatro alla Scala is a symbol of Milan's rich musical heritage. Guided tours are available to explore the historic theater and museum.
Cultural/Entertainment
1 hour
€10-€15
Must-Try Local Dishes
Risotto alla Milanese
A creamy saffron risotto, a staple of Milanese cuisine.
Main Course
Contains dairy, can be made vegetarian.
Ossobuco
Braised veal shanks, traditionally served with gremolata.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be made gluten-free.
Panzerotti
Fried dough pockets filled with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and other ingredients.
Snack
Contains dairy, can be made vegetarian or vegan.
Cotoletta alla Milanese
A breaded and fried veal cutlet, similar to schnitzel.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be made gluten-free.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby Alps
Cycling along the Navigli canals
Aperitivo in Navigli
Shopping in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Visiting museums and historic sites
Attending opera or ballet performances
Boat tours on Lake Como
Swimming in Lake Como
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
The best time to visit Milan is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. These months offer ideal conditions for exploring the city's attractions.
15-28°C
59-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Milan is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Be cautious with your belongings and stay alert.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use official taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Be cautious of distractions and common scams
Getting there
By air
- Milano Malpensa Airport • 50 km from city center
- Milano Linate Airport • 7 km from city center
By train
Milano Centrale, Milano Rogoredo
By bus
Lampugnano Bus Station, San Donato Milanese
Getting around
Public transport
The Milano Metro system consists of four lines (M1, M2, M3, M5) and is efficient and easy to use. It is the quickest way to get around the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Brera
Navigli
Quartiere della Moda
Isola
Day trips
Lake Como
50 km • Full day
Lake Como is a stunning alpine lake known for its beautiful villas, gardens, and scenic views. It is a popular destination for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Bergamo
50 km • Half day
Bergamo is a charming medieval city with a well-preserved old town and a rich history. It offers a mix of historic sites, museums, and local cuisine.
Verona
150 km • Full day
Verona is a romantic city known for its association with Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. It offers a mix of historic sites, romantic landmarks, and cultural attractions.
Festivals
Milan Fashion Week • February and September
Milan Design Week • April
Milan Film Festival • September
Pro tips
- Visit the Duomo early in the morning to avoid crowds and long queues
- Explore the Navigli district in the evening for a vibrant aperitivo experience
- Use the ATM Milano app for real-time public transportation schedules and maps
- Consider purchasing a Milan Card for discounts on attractions, transportation, and dining
- Try local specialties like risotto alla Milanese and panzerotti
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
