Weekend in Milano

Free permanent collection at Milan's modern art museum in a 18th-century palace. Includes works by Modigliani, Picasso, and De Chirico.

Tip: It's free but no online booking needed. The temporary exhibitions cost extra but are often skip-worthy.

A 16th-century church often called the Sistine Chapel of Milan for its complete frescoed interior by Bernardino Luini and his workshop. Entry is free, and you can also see the ruin

Tip: The tearoom next door (Caffè San Maurizio) is a good spot for a quiet coffee, but don't photograph the frescos with flash—the light damages them.

16th-century church known as the Sistine Chapel of Milan, with frescoes covering every wall from floor to ceiling. Often overlooked by tourists.

Tip: Go early morning to have the place almost to yourself. No photography with flash allowed.

A 16th-century church covered floor to ceiling with frescoes by Bernardino Luini and his workshop. Often called 'Milan's Sistine Chapel' — deservedly so.

Tip: Combines with the adjacent Museo Archeologico (which costs €5) but the church is free. Go just before noon or after 2pm to avoid tour groups.

A 95-acre public park behind the Castello Sforzesco, with lawns, a small lake, and the Arco della Pace triumphal arch at its western end. Good for a picnic or a sit-down after the castle.

Tip: Bring snacks from the Mercato di Via Paolo Sarpi nearby; park benches fill up by noon on sunny days. The aquarium at the park's edge is free on the first Sunday of the month.

Art gallery housing Italian Renaissance masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael and Mantegna. Free on the first Sunday of the month. Tiny gift shop inside.

Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before opening on free Sundays to avoid a 1-hour queue. Otherwise, standard tickets are €15, but you can book online at no extra cost.

The city's main park behind Sforza Castle. Large green space with fountains, statues, a small lake, and free public toilets.

Tip: Bring a picnic and sit near the lake. Avoid the small zoo enclosures if animal welfare bothers you.

Large, well-kept park behind Castello Sforzesco. Perfect for a picnic or a quiet walk, with views of the Arch of Peace and the castle walls.

Tip: Bring your own snacks—the on-site cafés are pricey. The grassy areas near the pond are less crowded than the main path.

Large public park behind Sforza Castle, with lawns, paths, ponds and the Arch of Peace. Good for a picnic or a stroll away from traffic.

Tip: Bring your own food from a supermarket near Cairoli metro station. The park café is expensive.

Large public park right behind Sforza Castle. Good for a walk, a picnic, or just sitting on the grass. You get a clear view of the Arco della Pace at the far end.

Tip: Go early on a weekday morning when it's quiet. The small pond near the Acquario Civico has decent birdwatching.