The Mediterranean Insider

Milan, Italy

The best design-forward things to see and do in Milan

The Mediterranean • See & do • The best design-forward things to see and do in Milan

An insider’s guide to unmissable things to see and do in Milan

Milan, the beating heart of Italy’s Lombardy region, is a city where design isn’t just an industry – it’s a way of life. From its awe-inspiring Renaissance landmarks to its cutting-edge contemporary spaces, the city wears its creativity on its sleeve. Whether you’re drawn to iconic landmarks like the Duomo or cutting-edge concept stores pushing the boundaries of aesthetics, Milan is a playground for those who appreciate good design in all its forms. But with so much to see, where do you start? We’ve curated the ultimate list of design-forward experiences, from art-filled hotels and avant-garde galleries to breathtaking interiors and architectural wonders.

Top photography courtesy of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Fondazione Prada

Established in 1993, Fondazione Prada is an institution dedicated to contemporary art and culture. The foundation’s venue was transformed from a 1910s distillery by the architecture firm OMA, led by Rem Koolhaas. Founded by Miuccia Prada and Patrizio Bertelli, the space now hosts a series of innovative contemporary art exhibitions and experimental installations that challenge traditional boundaries. The complex spans 19,000 square meters, with 11,000 square meters dedicated to exhibition spaces. It comprises seven existing buildings integrated with three new structures: the Podium, Cinema and Torre. A must-see is the Haunted House, a four-story building clad in 24-carat gold leaf, showcasing pieces from the foundation’s permanent collection.

Fondazione Prada
L.go Isarco 2
Milano
Italy

Photography courtesy of Fondazione Prada

Nilufar

Nilufar, founded in 1979 by Nina Yashar, is a renowned gallery in Milan specialising in both vintage and contemporary design pieces. Originally specialising in antique carpets, the gallery expanded in the late 1990s to include modern and contemporary design pieces, showcasing works by mid-century masters alongside emerging talents. In 2015, Yashar unveiled Nilufar Depot, a 1,500-square-meter space transformed from a former factory by architect Massimiliano Locatelli. This three-story venue houses over 3,000 objects, including works by renowned designers such as Gio Ponti, Arne Jacobsen and contemporary artists like Martino Gamper and Bethan Laura Wood. Nilufar Gallery’s commitment to curating eclectic and visionary exhibitions has solidified its status as a premier destination that’s a must-visit for any design lover.

Nilufar
Viale Vincenzo Lancetti 34
Milano
Italy

Photography courtesy of Nilufar

Duomo di Milano

The Duomo di Milano is an iconic Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Milan. Construction began in 1386 and continued for nearly six centuries. The cathedral features intricate spires and statues, with a capacity to accommodate up to 40,000 people. Inside, the soaring ceilings and colorful stained glass windows create a natural play of light that fills the vast interior with a sense of wonder. You can also visit the rooftop terraces for panoramic views of the city and a closer look at the cathedral’s detailed architecture. Its central position in Milan makes it an unmissable landmark that connects the past with the present in a dialogue of stone and light.

Duomo di Milano
P.za del Duomo
Milano
Italy

Villa Necchi Campiglio

Villa Necchi Campiglio offers a rare glimpse into Milan’s elegant 20th-century lifestyle. Built in the 1930s by renowned architect Piero Portaluppi, this villa was once home to the influential Necchi Campiglio family and now serves as a museum dedicated to its unique design heritage, showcasing exquisite art deco interiors, along with an extensive collection of art and furnishings. Walking through its preserved rooms and lush gardens, it’s easy to appreciate how every detail – from period furnishings to original artworks – captures the refined essence of Milanese modernism. The villa’s interiors combine functionality with stylish decor, featuring large windows and open-plan spaces that invite natural light in, emphasizing the villa’s understated elegance.

Villa Necchi Campiglio
Via Mozart 14
Milano
Italy

Photography courtesy of Villa Necchi Campiglio

Triennale di Milano

Established in 1923, the Triennale di Milano is an institution dedicated to Italian design, architecture and visual arts. Housed in the Palazzo dell’Arte, built between 1931 and 1933 to designs by Giovanni Muzio, is an architectural landmark that adds to the Triennale’s allure. Its design complements the institution’s mission to celebrate and promote Italian creativity and innovation. Triennale di Milano is notably home to the Triennale Design Museum, Italy’s first museum dedicated to design, showcasing a vast collection of Italian design artifacts. Interactive installations and thought-provoking displays invite you to engage directly with the creative process, making each visit a personal exploration of ideas and aesthetics.

Triennale di Milano
Viale Emilio Alemagna 6
Milano
Italy

Photography courtesy of Triennale di Milano

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Often referred to as the living room of Milan, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the world’s oldest shopping malls. Designed by architect Giuseppe Mengoni and constructed between 1865 and 1877, the Galleria is celebrated for its neo-Renaissance style and stands as one of Europe’s premier examples of iron architecture. The structure features two intersecting glass and iron arcades, forming a Latin cross, with a central octagonal space crowned by a glass dome. It houses luxury boutiques, cafes and restaurants, making it a bustling hub of activity and architectural beauty. The natural light filtering through the dome adds a magical quality to the space, highlighting its ornamental details and creating a refined, lively atmosphere.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Piazza del Duomo
Milano
Italy

Photography courtesy of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Palazzo Citterio

Palazzo Citterio is a striking example of Milanese architecture that gracefully bridges history and modern design. After decades of anticipation, Milan’s Palazzo Citterio has opened its doors in 2025 as a modern art museum. This 18th-century palace now houses over 200 masterpieces from the 20th century, including works by Boccioni, Modigliani, Morandi and Picasso. Designed by Mario Cucinella Architects, the renovation respects the building’s historical elements while introducing contemporary features. A notable addition is the Little Temple, a circular wooden pavilion inspired by Donato Bramante’s Tempietto in Rome, serving as a connecting point between the palace and the adjacent Botanical Garden. The gallery’s inauguration marks a significant milestone in the Grande Brera project, aiming to position Milan alongside Europe’s premier art cities.