Exploring Milan’s Top Museums and How to Reach Them by Public Transport

Milan, a city known for its rich history, art, and culture, boasts an array of world-class museums. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a history buff, Milan’s museums offer something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the city’s must-see museums and how to reach them using public transport.

Duomo Milan

The Cathedral and the icon of Milan. Click here to find out more on this landmark

Pinacoteca di Brera

The Pinacoteca di Brera is one of Milan’s premier art galleries, housing an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Raphael, Caravaggio, and Titian. The museum is located in the artistic Brera district.

How to get there: Take the Metro Line 2 (Green Line) to Lanza station. From there, it’s a short walk to the gallery.

Museo del Novecento

Located in the Palazzo dell’Arengario, the Museo del Novecento showcases a vast collection of 20th-century Italian art, including pieces by Picasso, Fontana, and Modigliani. The museum offers stunning views of the Duomo and Piazza del Duomo.

How to get there: Take the Metro Line 1 (Red Line) or Line 3 (Yellow Line) to the Duomo station. The museum is adjacent to the cathedral.

Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology

As Italy’s largest science and technology museum, this museum is dedicated to the achievements of Leonardo da Vinci and features a vast array of exhibits, including models of his inventions, interactive displays, and historical artifacts.

How to get there: Take the Metro Line 2 (Green Line) to Sant’Ambrogio station. The museum is a five-minute walk from the station.

Triennale di Milano

The Triennale di Milano is a design and art museum located in Parco Sempione. It features contemporary art, design exhibitions, and architectural displays, along with a dynamic calendar of temporary exhibitions and events.

How to get there: Take the Metro Line 1 (Red Line) to Cadorna station. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk through Parco Sempione to the museum.

Castello Sforzesco Museums

Housed within the historic Castello Sforzesco, this collection of museums includes the Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of Musical Instruments, and the Pinacoteca, which features works by Mantegna and Bellini. The castle itself is a significant historical site.

How to get there: Take the Metro Line 1 (Red Line) to Cairoli station. The castle is a short walk from the station.

Gallerie d’Italia

Situated in Piazza Scala, the Gallerie d’Italia offers a stunning collection of 19th- and 20th-century Italian art, including works from the Romantic and Futurist movements. The museum is housed in a magnificent neoclassical building.

How to get there: Take the Metro Line 1 (Red Line) to the Duomo station or the Metro Line 3 (Yellow Line) to Montenapoleone station. The museum is located between these two stations, a short walk from either.

Fondazione Prada

This contemporary art museum, housed in a former gin distillery, features cutting-edge exhibitions and installations by international artists. The venue itself is an architectural marvel, designed by Rem Koolhaas.

How to get there: Take the Metro Line 3 (Yellow Line) to Lodi T.I.B.B. station. From there, it’s about a 15-minute walk to the museum.

Using Milan’s Public Transport

Milan’s public transport system, operated by ATM (Azienda Trasporti Milanesi), includes four metro lines, trams, and buses.

Tips for Visitors:

  • Plan Ahead: Check the opening hours and any special exhibitions at the museums before your visit.
  • Avoid Peak Times: Museums can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon for a more relaxed experience.
  • Combine Visits: Many museums are located close to each other. Plan your itinerary to visit multiple museums in one day.

By leveraging Milan’s efficient public transport, you can effortlessly explore the city’s rich array of museums, gaining deep insights into its artistic and cultural heritage.