Milan: A City That Wows in Aesthetics!
If I were to sum up Milan for you – I’d say it’s a place that explodes with history, oozes fashion, and throws in some modern aesthetics for good measure. No doubt – It’s a photographer’s paradise, and for good reason. But, this city is so much more than just a collection of “most Instagrammable places in Milan.” That’s why I’m here to share my experience, beyond the filters and likes.
What Makes Milan an Instagram Worthy Destination?
Let me tell you why I fell for this city. First, it’s gorgeous. The Duomo di Milano, that massive Gothic cathedral? It takes your breath away. Trust me, pictures don’t do it justice. You have to stand at the foot of it, craning your neck to take in all the fine details – the flying buttresses reaching for the sky, the gargoyles keeping watch over the city.
But the real magic happened for me when I climbed to the rooftop. The view of the entire city sprawled out before me was unreal.
Similarly, there are hundreds of Instagrammable places in Milan. If you wish to know more about them, keep reading below.
Pro Tip: Milan has one of the best nightlifes in Italy. check out our Nightlife in Milan guide for more info.
7 Instagram Worthy Masterpieces in Milan
1. Duomo di Milano: Soaring Gothic Grandeur
If you’re looking for the best Instagrammable places in Milan, you have to see the Duomo di Milano. It’s like this massive, beautiful Gothic cathedral that takes your breath away. Seriously, the first time I saw it, I just stood there with my mouth agape, craning my neck to take in all the details.
- The Fine Details: This cathedral is covered in these jaw-dropping carvings and gargoyles that look like they’re about to come to life. You should zoom in and get some close-up shots to capture all that crazy craftsmanship.
- How to Take an Insta Worthy Picture!: You know those pictures where people look like ants next to the Duomo? Yeah, they’re not exaggerating. This thing is massive! Want to know my trick? Don’t aim for the typical tourist shots (the common straight shots). Instead, shoot upwards. Get the whole Duomo towering over you. It makes your photo way more dramatic.
- Rooftop Views Are Insane: Without a second doubt, climb to the rooftop! The view of the entire city sprawled out beneath you, with the Duomo itself as the centerpiece, is INSANE. You won’t regret the climb (or the slightly sore legs afterwards).
2. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Luxurious Shopping Arcade Paradise – Why It’s Instagrammable
The Duomo will surely blow your mind, but the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is like stepping into a whole other world. For me, it was like walking into a movie set, all glass, steel, and marble gleaming like crazy. Hence – one of the most Instagrammable places in Milan.
Fancy stores line the walkways, and people strut around looking like they’re on their way to a fashion show. Don’t get me wrong, a selfie in front of Prada isn’t the worst thing ever (you do you!), but the real magic here is in the details.
Like Walking Through a Living Instagram Filter: This place is dripping with luxury, like someone spilled a whole vat of “fancy” all over it. The mosaic floors are insane – intricate patterns and mythical creatures that look like they could come alive. Look up too, at the ceilings – they’re decked out with sculptures and frescoes that make you feel like you’re walking through a giant work of art.
How to Snag an Insta-Worthy Galleria Shot: Okay, so you want your Galleria pics to be fire, right? Here are some tips:
- Everyone has a selfie in front of the entrance. Skip it. Instead, focus on the details – zoom in on the cool mosaic patterns, or get a shot of the sunlight streaming through the glass roof.
- While snapping candid shots of people, try to capture their style. Catch someone with a killer outfit or a cool pair of sunglasses. You might even get a funny pic of a tiny dog dressed in a designer purse!
3. Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest): Urban Jungle Vibes
Milan has this architectural masterpiece called Bosco Verticale, which is more like a Vertical Forest, and let me tell you, it’s mind-blowing. This building is legit COVERED, in overflowing balconies bursting with all sorts of plants. It’s like a giant hug from Mother Nature in the middle of the city, and I was obsessed. Plus, the photo opportunities here are insane.
Escape the Concrete Jungle (Literally): Let’s be real, after a few days in Milan, all those buildings can get a little overwhelming. The Bosco Verticale was my saving grace. These towers are like little green sanctuaries in the middle of the city.
Just think about it – you’re snapping a pic and there’s this sleek skyscraper, but instead of cold, reflective glass, it’s bursting with vibrant green foliage. It’s a total clash that makes for a seriously unique photo. Trust me, your followers will be like, “Whoa, where is THAT?”
Play Around With Different Exposures! Here’s the cool thing – the sunlight filtering through the leaves creates this dappled effect that adds a whole new dimension to your photos. It’s like nature’s built-in softbox. I played around with different exposures to capture the different vibes. Sometimes a darker, moodier shot made the plants pop with an almost neon intensity, while a bright and sunny pic highlighted the lush green and created an almost fairytale-like feel.
Think Outside the Square (or Rectangle): Most people just take a straight-on shot of these buildings, which is fine, but why not get creative? The Bosco Verticale is all about defying expectations, so why not do the same with your photos? Try getting down low to capture the buildings towering majestically over you, like a modern-day Jack and the Beanstalk.
Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, climb up to a nearby rooftop for a bird’s-eye view of the entire urban jungle. Trust me, you’ll get a shot that nobody else has, and that’s what Instagram is all about, right?
Bonus Tip: While you’re snapping away, remember that the Bosco Verticale is a real building with people living inside. Be respectful and avoid taking any photos that might invade their privacy.
4. Navigli Canals: A Postcard-Perfect Waterfront
One of the most instagrammable places in Milan is Navigli. Let me explain why. It’s beyond charming, and perfect for some seriously romantic photos. But the real deal is witnessed in the evening, during aperitivo hour. The canals come alive with energy as people gather for drinks and conversation. It’s the perfect time to capture the essence of Milan’s social scene.
Canalside Charm Overload: Sometimes you just need a break from all the sightseeing. The Navigli Canals are my happy place in Milan. These colorful buildings lining the water are pure picturesque perfection.
You’ll love strolling along the canals, snapping pics of the reflections dancing on the water, or maybe cuddling up with your special someone on a little bridge for a super cute photo op. This place oozes Italian charm, and it’s guaranteed to make your followers jealous.
Golden Hour Goals: The golden hour, just before sunset, casts this warm, magical light over the canals that makes them look even more incredible. It’s the perfect time to capture those postcard-worthy reflections of the buildings in the water. Trust me, the pics you take here will be pure fire.
5. A. Palazzo Brera: Classical Elegance with a Modern Twist
Do not hit up the usual tourist traps in Milan. When it comes to discovering the most Instagrammable places in Milan, there’s this hidden gem called Palazzo Brera that’s basically a photographer’s playground. It’s a giant courtyard with these beautiful arches and sculptures that just ooze classical elegance. With perfect picture frames, these arches look outstanding, just begging you to get creative and snap some mind-blowing photos.
Take Advantage of the Symmetry: Palazzo Brera’s courtyard is basically like Instagram heaven. Everything is crazy symmetrical, with the arches and sculptures all mirroring each other. It’s like the whole place was designed for perfectly balanced photos! I spent forever here just playing around, trying to capture that perfect balance. Trust me, a photo with this kind of symmetry is crazy pleasing to the eye and will for sure stop your followers in their scrolls.
Ditch the Boring Tourist Shot: Instead of standing straight on, try looking way up at the arches to create a dramatic, almost dizzying effect. Or, get down low and capture the grandeur of the courtyard from a completely different perspective. You might surprise yourself with the cool shots you end up with!
Modern Art Crashing the Classic Party: The Pinacoteca di Brera, which is basically an art museum inside the Palazzo, has a whole collection of modern and contemporary art. Here’s the cool twist – you can use this modern art to create a mind-blowing contrast with the classical architecture of the courtyard.
6. Arco Della Pace – For History Buffs And Instagram Lovers
This place serves the perfect blend of history and Instagram-worthy shots – therefore, it is on my list of most Instagrammable places in Milan. Also known as the Arch of Peace, the place isn’t your typical triumphal arch – it’s got a story, and it stands at 25 meters tall, right in the middle of a beautiful park.
Historical Significance: The Arco della Pace is like a time capsule. Built way back in the early 1800s, it was originally supposed to celebrate Napoleon’s victories. But plot twist! Thanks to Napoleon’s downfall, it ended up getting finished way later and now commemorates European peace after all those nasty Napoleonic Wars. So, you can learn a little history while you snap some pics – that’s a win-win.
Park Perfection: The Arco della Pace isn’t just some lonely arch in the middle of nowhere. It’s the grand entrance to Parco Sempione, one of Milan’s biggest parks. You’ll see lush green lawns stretching out behind this historic arch. It’s the perfect backdrop for a photo”. Plus, the park itself is a great place to relax and escape the city buzz after you’ve gotten your obligatory arch pic.
Framing Your Perfect Shot: The arch itself is massive, so you have options!
Here’s my tip: Walk around the arch and see how the light plays on the carvings and statues. You could even frame the arch with the park entrance on either side for a more dramatic effect.
7. Santa Maria delle Grazie:
Stepping into the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie is like stepping back in time. Here, on the wall opposite the entrance, you’ll find The Last Supper, a masterpiece depicting the final meal Jesus shared with his apostles before his crucifixion.
The painting’s intricate details, lifelike figures, and profound symbolism have captivated audiences for centuries.
Planning Your Visit to See the Last Supper
Due to the delicate nature of the painting and the high volume of visitors, access to The Last Supper is strictly controlled. Here’s what you need to know to plan your visit:
- How to Visit the Last Supper in Milan: Tickets are absolutely essential. They can be purchased online through the official website Museo Cenacolo Vinciano. However, the bad news is that it is almost impossible to get tickets easily. They sell out in a flash, therefore, booking from third party sites such as Getyourguide is possible and wise too.
- How much are last Last Supper Tickets: The standard ticket price for The Last Supper is €15 (around $17 USD). But again, you won’t get tickets from the official site at this price. Expect to pay a bit higher because your only option left is to get them from third party sites.
9. Don’t Underestimate the Street Art
Milan’s coolest treasures are hidden in plain sight, on the streets! I’m talking about amazing street art, with crazy colorful murals everywhere you look. These aren’t your typical tourist shop paintings – they’re bold, they make you think, and they’re perfect for Instagram.
Living Stories: Milan’s street art isn’t just a bunch of paintings that never change. It’s like a living story, always growing and showing what’s going on in the city. As you walk around different neighborhoods, you’ll find these hidden gems on side streets, each one with a message.
Snapping Milan Like a Pro: How to Take Picture-Perfect Photos in Milan!
Milan is a feast for the senses, and capturing its beauty on camera is an adventure in itself. But fret not, fellow explorers! Here are some handy tips to ensure your photos tell the captivating story of your Milanese escapade:
Let the Light Guide You:
Natural light is your best friend. Aim for daytime excursions, especially during the magical golden hour (just before sunset) when the sun casts a warm, inviting glow. Harsh midday sun can create unwanted shadows, so consider exploring charming alleys or shaded piazzas during this time.
In museums or historical buildings with dimmer lighting, adjust your camera settings accordingly or use the flash judiciously to avoid washed-out colors.
Think Beyond the Obvious:
Don’t settle for the typical tourist shot. Challenge yourself to find unique perspectives. Get down low to capture the towering grandeur of the Duomo’s facade, or climb to a rooftop for a breathtaking panoramic view. At the Navigli Canals, play with reflections by positioning yourself strategically to capture the dancing lights on the water.
Remember, sometimes the most captivating photos are found by looking at a familiar scene with fresh eyes.
Capture the Soul of the City:
Milan is a city that pulsates with life. Don’t just focus on the monuments – capture the energy and essence of each location. At the bustling Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, snap candid photos of people window-shopping or enjoying a leisurely aperitivo.
In the peaceful Parco Sempione, photograph families picnicking on the grass or couples strolling hand-in-hand. In the Navigli Canals during aperitivo hour, zoom in on the animated conversations and clinking glasses to convey the vibrant social scene.
By capturing these little moments, you’ll bring your Milanese adventure to life for yourself and your followers.
If you’re looking for things to do in Milan and are short on time, check out our Milan in a day guide.
Where to find Instagrammable Places in Milan
Don’t get me wrong, these sure are the most Instagrammable places in Milan, and you’ll definitely feel the difference. But after you’ve snagged your content and mastered the perfect pose, ditch the phone for a sec.
Milan is a feast for all senses, so get a taste of that delicious risotto, listen to the melodic street performers, and smell the brewing espresso. Trust me, these memories will linger way longer than the fleeting fame of a double-tap. Now go capture some beauty, the real kind, and ciao for now!
