Tucked in the dreamy region of Lombardy, Milan is a timeless legend. The glory of the Renaissance era, world-class fashion, and magnificent Italian art swirl inside the city. For that reason, Milan is one of Italy’s best places to visit. Besides its majestic Duomo Cathedral and posh Vittorio Emmanuelle II, Milan keeps a lot of secret spots. In this article, we are showing you the 11 best Milan hidden gems that will make you stunned!
Best Milan Hidden Gems – Summary
- Villa Invernizzi
- Church of San Bernardino alle Ossa
- Villa Necchi Campligio
- Orto Botanico di Brera
- Cimitero Monumentale
- Albergo Diurno Venezia
- Leonardo’s Vineyard
- QC Termemilano
- Al Cortile
- Ristorante Papa Francesco
Villa Invernizzi
Head to the untouched streets of Il Quadrilatero del Silenzio and find a quirky scene in Milan. Villa Invernizzi is an antique mansion that once belonged to Cavalier Invernizzi, a wealthy cheesemaker. Due to the maestro’s artsy sense, he added shade to the monochromatic mansion by adopting flamingos. Thus, until today, the pink birds are roaming gracefully around the hidden estate.
Villa Invernizzi is closed to the public. The luxurious mansion and its distinguished flamingos hide behind an enormous gate and lush garden. Nonetheless, you can still take a peek at the mansion from the gates. For that reason, hunting this Milan hidden gem is a very fun thing to do!
Church of San Bernardino alle Ossa – Church of Bones
Get ready to feel the chills as you enter this building. Church of San Bernardino alle Ossa gives us an unusual definition of a church. It is indeed different from the majestic Cathedral Duomo or elegant San Giorgio al Palazzo. The secret church looks more like an ossuary, as bones and skulls cover the walls.
The Church of San Bernardino alle Ossa is a hidden gem in Milan that you must check out. It holds a touching history, as this 13th-century ossuary for a humane mission. It was originally purposed as a chamber for the bones of patients from an ancient hospital and prison. Therefore, the backstory of this church will make you feel swirled in spite of its eerie atmosphere.
Villa Necchi Campiglio
Travel back in time and see the aristocrats of Italy throwing parties in this private mansion. Villa Necchi Campligio is a lavish mansion in the heart of Quadrilatero del Silenzio. It was built in an ornate, art-deco architecture that resembles a modern building. Inside the mansion, you can find rooms adorned with ornate furniture, fancy fabrics, and artistic sculptures. Thus, it is one of the most beautiful Italian hidden gems to see.
One of the best things about Villa Necchi Campligio is the swimming pool. The outdoor pool was built in 1930, marking its status as the first private swimming pool in Milan. Besides marveling at the gorgeous setting of the villa, you can have a coffee by the pool. Alternatively, you can sit in the bistro and enjoy a delightful lunch while looking at the well-manicured gardens.
Orto Botanico di Brera
Take a break from a busy day in this dreamy botanical garden. Situated on the secluded side of Milan, Orto Botanico di Brera offers a serene haven for everyone. This 14th-century garden describes what a perfect place to relax looks like. It features well-trimmed plants, leafy trees, and the elegant, reddish Palazzo Brera. Therefore, it is a beautiful Milan hidden gem that worth checking out.
Cimitero Monumentale
Who would have thought that a cemetery could look like a museum? Then, Climitero Monumentale will prove it to you! The 19th-century cemetery complex is dotted with works of art. You can find magnificent sculptures, ornate tombs, and gorgeous obelisks that will blow your mind. Besides that, you can go to the main Hall of Fame, an enormous Renaissance-styled building, and pay a visit to respectful figures. Furthermore, Cimitero Monumentale is one of the Milan hidden gems that is hard to skip.
Albergo Diurno Venezia
Many places in Milan will lead you to travel back in time and Albergo Diurno Venezia is one of them. Located underneath Plaza Oberdan, Albergo Diurno Venezia is both mysterious and fascinating. It was a bathhouse, spa, beauty salon, and barbershop decades ago. You can close your eyes and imagine people pampering themselves with a new haircut or a pedicure session. Thus, the space was built with a charming Art-Deco style, making it looks good in both camera and real life.
So, you want to see this artistic hidden gem in Milan? You can take a guided tour to explore the area. Thus, Albergo Diurno Venezia is only open once a month. Make sure to be updated about the opening days of this gorgeous spot before visiting with your travel buddies!
Leonardo’s Vineyard
Spend a sunny day in the lush vineyard that once belonged to the maestro Leonardo da Vinci. Nestled in the gardens of Casa Degli Ataleni, Da Vinci’s private residence, Leonard’s Vineyard is a precious hidden gem in Milan. It was given to Da Vinci by the Duke of Milan as a recognition of his amazing works. Now, Leonardo’s Vineyard is an interesting spot to see if you visit the Museum of Leonardo Da Vinci.
QC Termemilano
Indulge yourself with a fabulous spa session after a long day of exploring. Thus, QC Termemilano offers you a spa experience like no other. This cool spa place allows you to try an immersive, dramatic experience while spoiling yourself with a massage or pool dip. However, QC Termemilano’s awesome spa services are only known by a few.
One of the most interesting things they offer is a storm pool. You will get a lot of surprises that will shock all your senses. Thus, you may feel like you are bathing in the middle of a storm. The sound effects, hologram scenes, and heavy showers make the experience so immersive and special.
Al Cortile
This fusion restaurant shows us what is a real hidden gem in Milan. It is hidden inside an alley, behind centuries-old Spanish walls and small stalls that seem getting you nowhere. However, as you make your way to the flashy LED lights, you will find an outdoor, garden-like restaurant.
Besides being unique, this hidden gem restaurant in Milan also offers delicious food. They have the best graduates of Haute Cuisine and Pastry School as chefs. So, we know that the quality of the food is top-notch. Thus, they serve the best fusion food in Milan. Try out the gyoza and cod, they are the best!
Ristorante Papa Fransesco
Are you looking for a nice place to have authentic Italian food? Then, Ristorante Papa Francesco is your go-to! This hidden gem restaurant in Milan is located nearby Leonardo Museum. Thus, it starts to get attention from tourists for its mouthwatering dishes and super-friendly service.
In this restaurant, you are not just enjoying authentic spaghetti carbonara or risotto. You can also enjoy the small performances by the chef and staff of the restaurant. They will mingle with the guests and do small tricks. That sounds like a nice way to have lunch, right?
Milan is simply stunning and fabulous! Thus, its hidden gems are something you should put on your bucket list. Do you want to explore Milan and see the gorgeous hidden gems? We have a great idea for you!
JoinMyTrip has plenty of handpicked trips all over the world, hosted by passionate and experienced travelers. They will make sure the trips will be safe, authentic, and awesome! Besides that, you will also travel in a group and meet like-minded travel buddies. Get ready to make a lasting friendships after you travel the world together!
So, what are you waiting for? Our trips run out fast, so book them now!