The Unknown Milan: 5 quirky things to see in Milan

Let's discover the off-beat Milan

Tourists in Milan often visit the same usual things. This goes far from saying that Milan Cathedral, Parco Sempione or some shopping in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is something that you shouldn't be doing, but there is much more that we've discovered thanks to Simona, the italian blogger behind Fringe in Travel, and we just don't want you to miss them out. Here are 5 quirky things to see in Milan, directly from our #LocalTipsHc project. Don't believe us? Here you are.

1. ARCO DELLA PACE SEEN FROM A TRAM

Credits:@wackostudio

It' common knowledge how the Arco della Pace is one of Milan's nicest areas. However something that people don't know is that one of the best way to see Milan and its landmarks is by tram, a historic symbol of the city. Simona suggests to actually get lost by tram as it is the best way to spot unexpected areas of the city. Any tram line is just fine, however if you really have to choose one, go for any tram on line 1 towards Greco/Rovereto.

Once you get to Corso Sempione, you will spot the Arco della Pace on the horizon and the Sforza Castle behind it. No wonder why Simona really likes this itinerary.

2. PARCO DELLE CAVE

It's definitely outside the city centre, west of Milan, but worth a visit. This park consists of small lakes, dirt paths, lawns and hiking trails. It does not even feel like being in Milan any longer ... well, luckily, this is also Milan.

3. THE NON-FASHION QUADRILATERO AND VILLA NECCHI CAMPIGLIO


Credits: @jm_droneguy

Simona suggests that the walk behind Porta Venezia is one of Milan's most pleasants. From Corso di Porta Venezia, walk down Via Serbelloni, turn into Via dei Cappuccini, and you will come across Villa Invernizzi, quite popular as the home of a flock of pink flamingos in its garden. Keep on walking and turn into via Vivaio and via Mozart where you will find Villa Necchi Campiglio (it's managed by FAI and it's best to check out the opening time beforehand). It's like walking in Milan's history and architecture district: it's actually very calm and peaceful even though it's right in city centre.

4. VIEW FROM MILAN CATHEDRAL AND THE WINDOWS OF THE MUSEUM OF THE 20TH CENTURY

The Museum of the 20th century is a great example of Italian successful museum institutions, but Simona suggests to specifically check out the view on Milan Cathedral from the museum top floor, under Lucio Fontana's neon installation ... even if you are not into history of art, to see the Milan Cathedral right in front of you with the staue of the Virgin Mary, believe us, is always a one of a kind experience.

5. CHIARAVALLE ABBEY

It's slightly outside Milan and therefore not very much visited. The Chiaravalle Abbey is a monastic site that will leave you speechless. It's only 10 minutes far from South Milan, however to enjoy the most of its secluded location, it's best to reach it by bike.. and don't forget that you are still in Milan, just fantastic, but definitely not the world's most bike friendly city, keep right!

IF YOU A PLANNING TO STAY LONGER…



If you are planning to stay longer, want to see these 5 quirky things in Milan and need affordable accommodation, we suggest you check out Sofia Hostel 2, with a central location, Milano Hostel, which provides HostelsClub Membership Card discounts and Gogol Ostello, a fantastic hostel as well as an interesting literary café.