Milan: Leonardo da Vinci Galleries Guided Tour+Museum Ticket

Key Points

• Affordable price: Only $24 per person for a 1.5-hour guided experience and museum access
• Exclusive access: Visit the largest Leonardo da Vinci exhibition worldwide, with over 170 models and artworks
• Expert guide: A small group (up to 7 people) ensures personalized explanations in Italian
• Museum scope: Beyond Leonardo, explore cutting-edge science, technology, and historical objects in a vast 50,000-square-meter space
• Family friendly (over age 9): The tour is ideal for teenagers and adults interested in arts, engineering, and history
• Convenient entry: Skip the lines with a voucher exchange at the Ticket Office, with free museum access included

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Discovering the Milan Museum of Science and Technology

The National Museum of Science and Technology in Milan opened in 1953 and remains one of Europe’s most important science and innovation museums. The tour focuses on the Leonardo da Vinci Galleries, which are the largest permanent exhibition dedicated to Da Vinci anywhere in the world. This 1.5-hour guided tour costs $24 per person and includes entry to the entire museum.

The museum extends over 50,000 square meters, housed within the cloisters of a Renaissance monastery. Its exhibits range from historical models and artifacts such as steam trains, trams, the Toti Submarine, and the Vega space launcher to digital installations covering fields like astronomy, energy, genetics, and particle physics. It’s a space where science, engineering, and history come together.

The Unique Focus on Leonardo da Vinci’s Life and Work

The Leonardo Galleries are the highlight of this tour. They offer a comprehensive look at da Vinci’s career, starting from Florence in the 15th century and tracing his training and influence of Tuscan engineers. The exhibit then follows his stay in Milan under the Sforza family, showing over 170 models and works of art spanning more than 1,300 square meters.

Highlights include art of war, flight innovations, waterway engineering, and architecture. An immersive installation features drawings from Da Vinci’s last period, giving visitors a chance to see his final sketches up close. The exhibition also showcases antique volumes and historical models that bring Leonardo’s genius to life.

Practicalities of the Guided Tour Experience

The tour begins with exchanging the voucher at the Ticket Office to obtain your free museum entry, which covers all exhibits. The meeting point is in the first cloister of the museum, making it easy to locate.

The guide, who speaks Italian, leads a small group of up to 7 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience. They explain the exhibits with clarity and enthusiasm, making complex concepts accessible. However, the tour is not recommended for children under 9 years old.

Exploring the Museum’s Extensive Collection

While the focus is on Leonardo da Vinci, the museum itself offers a vast array of objects and exhibits. Visitors can view full-scale models such as a Vega space launcher or the deck of the Conte Biancamano. The museum also hosts the only fragment of lunar rock in Italy and a full-size replica of the Luna Rossa AC72 catamaran.

The exhibits are carefully curated to show the evolution of science and technology, from early inventions to modern innovations. Visitors appreciate the cleanliness and well-presented displays, making the exploration enjoyable and educational.

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The Highlights of the Leonardo Galleries Tour

The narrative of the galleries takes visitors through Leonardo’s early training in Florence, his innovations in flight and engineering, and his impact on Lombard Renaissance painting. The tour culminates with a perspective on how Da Vinci’s ideas influenced future generations.

The 170 models and artworks are complemented by antique volumes and digital displays that animate his drawings and concepts. The immersive experience of viewing Leonardo’s sketches from his final period provides a deep appreciation for his multi-disciplinary genius.

The Benefits of the Small Group Format

Limiting the group size to 7 participants ensures more direct interaction with the guide. This format allows for more questions, personalized explanations, and a less crowded environment. The guide’s passion and knowledge shine through, making the tour engaging and informative.

The tour is conducted in Italian, so it’s ideal for Italian speakers or those comfortable with the language. The small group size helps avoid the overwhelming crowds often found in popular museums.

Accessibility and Practical Tips for Visiting

The museum is wheelchair accessible, making it possible for visitors with mobility needs to explore comfortably. Since pets are not allowed, assistance dogs are permitted.

Visitors should be aware that flash photography and tripods are not allowed inside the exhibits. Getting to the museum involves arriving at Via San Vittore 21, with the meeting point in the first cloister.

The cancellation policy allows for full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for planning.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour appeals especially to those interested in science, engineering, and art, as well as history buffs and students eager to learn about Leonardo da Vinci’s legacy. It’s suited for teenagers and adults who appreciate detailed explanations and interactive exhibits.

Since the tour is not recommended for children under 9, it’s best for families with older kids or groups of passionate learners. The affordable price and comprehensive access to the museum make it a cost-effective choice for a meaningful day in Milan.

Final Thoughts on the Leonardo da Vinci Galleries Tour in Milan

The $24 guided tour offers a rich experience for those wanting to explore Leonardo da Vinci’s innovations within the context of Milan’s scientific and artistic heritage. The small group setting and expert guidance ensure a personalized, engaging visit.

While the museum’s size and extensive collection can be overwhelming, the tour helps visitors focus on key highlights and Leonardo’s enduring influence. The tour’s value is evident in the depth of content and access to the largest Da Vinci exhibition worldwide.

For science enthusiasts, history lovers, or art aficionados, this experience promises a fascinating journey through one of Italy’s most important cultural institutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get my museum ticket?
You exchange your voucher at the Ticket Office to receive the free museum entry.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 9 years old, due to the depth of content and presentation style.

What languages are available for the tour?
The guide speaks Italian, and the tour is conducted in this language.

How long does the tour last?
The guided experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with additional time to explore the museum freely.

Can I visit the entire museum with this ticket?
Yes, the ticket includes access to the whole National Museum of Science and Technology, beyond just the Leonardo Galleries.

Are there any physical accessibility issues?
The museum is wheelchair accessible, making it accommodating for visitors with mobility needs.

What items are not allowed inside the museum?
Flash photography and tripods are prohibited during the visit.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who is the activity provider?
The activity is provided by Science & Technology Museum Da Vinci.

Are there other experiences similar to this tour?
Yes, several options include tours of Milan’s Sforza Castle, Duomo terraces, and other Leonardo-related exhibitions available via the provided links.

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