Milan, a city famous for its fashion and art history, contains plenty of beautiful locations that a photographer could capture. Whether an amateur or a professional, Milan provides much beauty to capture. For anyone coming on Italy Photo Tours, here are the top 10 most photogenic spots in Milan that you wouldn’t want to miss.
1. Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral)
One of the major, most recognizable landmarks is the Milan Cathedral with its intricate Gothic architecture. On the rooftop, there are great views across the city—ideal for panoramic shots. Visit at sunrise or sunset for the best light and least number of tourists.
2. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
This historic shopping arcade simply is a paradise not only for shoppers but to photographers. The magnificent glass dome and beautiful mosaics will make for some really elegant, timeless photos. Take the grandeur from the central octagonal space.
3. Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco)
The Sforza Castle, surrounded by lush gardens, becomes a testament to Milan’s history and thus offers an ideal dramatic location for photography. Different kinds of photographic opportunities can be found in the inner courtyards and museums.
4. Brera District
The district is imbued with the artistic vibe and bohemian atmosphere in the charming streets meandering through it. The narrow cobblestone streets, colorfully painted buildings, and quaint cafes of the district make it very apt for street photography.
5. Navigli Canals
One of Milan’s most beautiful areas is the district of Navigli, with its lovely canals, where historic buildings and nightlife along the water reflect onto it. Evening shots with light reflections on the canal would create a magic effect.
6. Santa Maria delle Grazie
This UNESCO site houses Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” and is not only of historical value but also an visual appeal. Unique photo opportunities can be found outdoors and indoors in these serene cloisters.
7. Piazza del Duomo
Piazza del Duomo is the heart of Milan and is a busy square that gives the perfect shots to portray the energy of the city. Views of the Duomo and its surroundings offer a typical Milanese backdrop.
8. La Scala Opera House
This is one of the biggest and best-known opera houses in the world and boasts a neoclassical façade. Exterior shots of this would be quite classy, or one can go for a guided tour of it to click some brilliant shots from inside its lavish interiors.
9. Parco Sempione
Next to Sforza Castle lies Parco Sempione, the biggest park in Milan, offering a lot of natural contrast to this part of the city. In particular, the Arch of Peace (Arco della Pace) at the entrance to the park is very picturesque.
10. Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest)
One of Milan’s modern architectural strokes: an innovative pair of residential towers, sheathed in green. Take a fine shot of this contrast of nature with the cityscape; light will explode with color in the vegetation during golden hour.
How to Have the Perfect Photo Tour in Milan
- Time: The best light for photography is early morning and late afternoon, and there will be fewer tourists.
- Equipment: Wide-angled lens for architecture and zoom lens for details one might need to shoot from far away.
- Planning: Scout out locations beforehand and make a route to ensure maximum coverage of the places in the shortest amount of time possible.
- Access: A number of sites may require permits for professional photography. Check ahead to avoid problems with permissions.
