10 Places to Visit in Milan Whilst at CPHI
Looking to take some time out and away from CPhI in Milan? Here are our 10 places to visit.
Milan, the capital of Lombardy and Italy's second-largest city, is the host city for CPHI Worldwide in 2024. For three days in early October, the biggest names in the pharma industry will descent on this beautiful city for the biggest event in the calendar. This city is renowned for its fusion of modern sophistication and rich historical legacy. As a global hub for fashion, design, and finance, Milan is a destination that balances the cutting-edge with classical beauty. For visitors, the city offers a wealth of experiences, from world-class art and architecture to exquisite dining and shopping. Here are the top places to visit in Milan that showcase its unique blend of history, culture, and contemporary allure.
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If you are looking to make a long weekend around the event or even some timeout from the busy show atmosphere, here are our recommendations of attractions and places to visit in this lively and vibrant city.
1. The Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral)
Source: Citalia.
Arguably the most iconic symbol of Milan, the Duomo di Milano is one of the largest and most stunning cathedrals in the world. Its intricate Gothic architecture, adorned with spires, statues, and gargoyles, took nearly six centuries to complete. Visitors can explore the cathedral's expansive interior, with its towering columns and beautiful stained-glass windows, as well as the rooftop terraces, offering panoramic views of the city. The terrace walk is particularly recommended, as it allows a closer look at the sculptures and provides breathtaking vistas of Milan and, on clear days, the Alps. To get a closer look at this impressive building, there are various tours on offer including the famous rooftop tour. Make sure you book tickets in advance at Duomo di Milano. The other option is to find one of the many rooftop bars near the Duomo and grab an aperitif and admire the view.
2. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Source: Ingalleria.
Adjacent to the Duomo, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the world’s oldest shopping malls. This elegant glass-domed arcade, completed in 1877, is named after Italy’s first king, Vittorio Emanuele II. The Galleria is home to some of Milan’s most prestigious shops, including luxury brands like Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci, as well as historic cafes such as the famous Camparino. The architecture itself is worth visiting, with its intricate mosaic floors and the iron-and-glass ceiling that bathes the space in natural light. This is the perfect place to experience the high fashion and stylish atmosphere for which Milan is known. Why not treat yourself to the latest handbag or shoes whilst you are there.
Whilst you are there, make sure you check out the mosaic under the central dome. The mosaic depicts the Savoy coat of arms and various animals that represent some of Italy’s most important cities. According to legend, visitors and locals will have good luck if they step with their right foot on the bull and turn 360 degrees with their eyes closed. If you step on the bull on the 31st December at midnight, you will be lucky for a whole year! Give it a go!
3. Teatro alla Scala
Source: Sempione News.
Milan is as famous for its art and culture as it is for its fashion, and Teatro alla Scala (La Scala) is one of the most revered opera houses in the world. Opened in 1778, La Scala has hosted performances by the most celebrated composers and opera singers in history, including Verdi, Puccini, and Maria Callas. Visitors can either attend a performance or explore the La Scala Museum, which houses a collection of opera-related artifacts, including costumes, musical instruments, and original scores. The theatre’s opulent interior, with its gilded balconies and plush red velvet seating, is a masterpiece in itself.
4. Santa Maria delle Grazie and Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper
Source: Last Supper Tickets.
No visit to Milan would be complete without seeing one of the world’s most famous paintings, Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. Housed in the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, this masterpiece depicts the moment Jesus announces that one of his disciples will betray him. Despite the challenges of deterioration over the centuries, the painting retains its emotional impact and technical brilliance. Visits are carefully regulated to protect the fresco, and tickets must be booked in advance. After viewing The Last Supper, be sure to explore the adjacent church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, a UNESCO World Heritage site that combines Renaissance and Gothic architectural elements.
5. Castello Sforzesco
Source: Milano Citta Stato.
The imposing Castello Sforzesco, once a military fortress and residence of the ruling Sforza family, is now a vibrant cultural complex. The castle’s vast grounds house a variety of museums and art collections, including the Museum of Ancient Art, the Pinacoteca (art gallery), and the Museum of Musical Instruments. The highlight of the collection is Michelangelo’s unfinished Pietà Rondanini, a moving sculpture that was one of the artist’s final works. The castle’s courtyards and park also make it a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the scenery. Nearby, Parco Sempione, Milan’s largest park, offers a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic.
6. Brera District and Pinacoteca di Brera
Source: America Domani
The Brera district is one of Milan’s most charming neighbourhoods, known for its bohemian atmosphere, narrow cobblestone streets, and artistic heritage. At the heart of the district is the Pinacoteca di Brera, one of Italy’s most important art galleries. The museum’s collection includes works by Italian masters such as Caravaggio, Raphael, Titian, and Bellini, as well as notable pieces from other European artists. After exploring the gallery, visitors can wander through Brera’s art-filled streets, with its many galleries, boutiques, and outdoor cafes. The neighbourhood is also home to the Brera Botanical Garden, a tranquil green space dating back to the 18th century.
7. Quadrilatero della Moda (Fashion District)
Milan is synonymous with fashion, and the Quadrilatero della Moda is the epicentre of its high-fashion scene. This luxurious shopping district, framed by Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga, Corso Venezia, and Via Manzoni, is home to the world’s most exclusive designer boutiques. Whether you’re shopping for haute couture or simply window-shopping, strolling through the elegant streets of the Quadrilatero provides a taste of Milan’s status as a global fashion capital. During Milan Fashion Week, the district is especially lively, with fashion shows and events attracting celebrities and style icons from around the world. If you happen to be in Corso Venezia or Via Sant’Andrea, be sure to enter the new ‘Piazza del Quadrilatero’ that links these streets. After being a private venue for 500 years, this is now open to the public. The large courtyard has undergone a complete renovation, and you can find shops, boutiques of large fashion houses plus artisan creators. Make sure you check out one of Milan’s secret places, now accessible to all.
8. QC Termemilano Spa
For those who use TikTok to unwind, you may have seen this pop up on your For You page. This spa has gone viral in recent months due to its unique offerings (sauna in a tram anyone?) and reasonable rates. Protected from the ancient Spanish walls, the QC Termemilano centre is an art nouveau complex where unique architecture plus the latest in Spa technology makes it a unique place to unwind after a hard day at the show.
The spa is open until 24.00 so plenty of time to get in an hour after the show!
For tickets, see Wellness Center | QC Termemilano.
9. Regional Cuisine
Source: Squarespace.
A trip to Italy is nothing without tasting the local cuisine and Milan is home to some of the most loved Italian dishes so make sure you sample these whilst at CPHI WW.
Lombardy boasts a rich culinary tradition that reflects its varied geography, from the Alpine mountains to the fertile plains. The region's cuisine is hearty, often characterised by the use of butter, cream, and cheese, unlike the olive oil that dominates southern Italian cooking. The food of Lombardy is heavily influenced by both its agricultural abundance and its historical ties to neighbouring Switzerland, France, and Austria.
One of the most famous dishes from Lombardy is Risotto alla Milanese, a creamy risotto made with saffron, which gives it a distinctive golden colour. Rice, particularly short-grain varieties like Arborio and Carnaroli, thrives in the wetlands around Pavia, and risotto is a staple across the region. Polenta, a cornmeal dish, is another common accompaniment in Lombardy, especially in the mountain areas. It is often served with stews, sausages, or cheese.
Lombardy is known for its hearty meat dishes, such as Ossobuco, a veal shank braised with white wine, broth, and vegetables. Cotoletta alla Milanese, a breaded and fried veal cutlet, is another classic dish, similar to the Wiener Schnitzel from Austria. In the lake regions, such as around Lake Como and Lake Garda, freshwater fish like perch and pike are popular.
Lombardy is home to some of Italy’s most renowned cheeses, including Gorgonzola, a creamy blue cheese, Taleggio, and Grana Padano, a hard cheese similar to Parmigiano-Reggiano. For desserts, Lombardy is famous for Panettone, a sweet bread loaf studded with raisins and candied fruit, traditionally eaten during Christmas.
10. Further afield
Source: Comolake.com.
For those spending some additional time either pre or post event, Milan is a great base to visit some of Italy’s nearby destinations.
Lake Como, just an hour north, is famous for its scenic beauty and charming lakeside towns. Bergamo, a historic city with medieval architecture and stunning views, is perfect for a day trip. The picturesque town of Pavia, with its magnificent Certosa di Pavia monastery, is also close by. For wine lovers, the Franciacorta region is ideal, offering vineyards and sparkling wines. Verona, home to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, and the serene Lake Garda are also within reach. Additionally, the Italian Alps provide opportunities for skiing and hiking year-round.
COFFEE?
We hope that this has given you plenty of ideas to keep you busy in and around the show. After all, work hard play hard!
If you are attending as a visitor or are an exhibiting team member, Chris, Gareth and the team would love to hear from you. To set up a quick chat over a coffee or aperitif at CPHI in beautiful Milan follow this link to organise a meeting. Don’t forget to check out the Orientation Marketing Wine Trail ….
