Best of Milan – Guided Tour of Milan and Skip-the-Line Last Supper

Discover the Highlights of Milan in Just a Few Hours

This 3-hour guided tour of Milan offers a practical way to see the city’s most famous sights in a short time. For $91.73 per person, you get skip-the-line access to Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, along with exterior visits to the Milan Duomo, Castello Sforzesco, and other iconic landmarks. The tour is perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time, combining walking exploration with fascinating stories about Milan’s history.

While the tour covers many highlights, it’s important to note that food and drinks are not included, and some sites like the Castello Sforzesco have limited access with only exterior visits. The tour departs from Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie and ends at the Duomo di Milano, with group sizes limited to 30 for a more intimate experience.

Key Points

• Includes skip-the-line ticket to The Last Supper, a rare opportunity in Milan
• Visits key landmarks such as Milan Duomo, Castello Sforzesco, Piazza Mercanti, and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
• Guided walking tour led by a licensed English-speaking guide with headsets for clear listening
• Flexible start times to fit different schedules
• Tour duration of approximately 3 hours makes it manageable even for busy itineraries
• Most travelers book 33 days in advance, reflecting demand and popularity

Starting Point and Tour Duration

The tour begins at Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, in front of the Museo del Novecento, allowing easy access via public transportation. It lasts around 3 hours, making it a compact but comprehensive way to explore Milan’s most loved sites. The tour ends at the Duomo di Milano.

Priority Access to Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper

The highlight of this tour is the skip-the-line ticket for The Last Supper at the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. This art piece is famously difficult to access independently, making the prebooked, guaranteed entry invaluable. The visit to The Last Supper lasts about 30 minutes, giving you a close-up view of Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece with detailed commentary from the guide.

Exploring Milan’s Parks and Castles

After the Last Supper, the tour takes you to Parco Sempione, Milan’s largest park, perfect for a quick rest surrounded by greenery. Then, the Castello Sforzesco provides a scenic view of Milan’s historic fortress, although access to the interior is not included. The exterior walk offers a sense of the city’s medieval past and its enduring presence.

Discovering Piazza Mercanti and Piazza della Scala

The tour then guides you through Piazza Mercanti, a charming square that reflects Milan’s layered history through its diverse architecture. Next, Piazza della Scala features the renowned La Scala opera house, an essential cultural symbol. The guide shares stories behind these landmarks, enhancing appreciation for the city’s artistic and architectural heritage.

Shopping and Architectural Marvels at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

A visit to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II reveals an impressive glass-domed shopping arcade lined with luxury boutiques. The guide explains the story of its architect and the tragedy surrounding his mysterious death, adding depth to the visual splendor. The 15-minute stop allows ample time for photos and window shopping.

The Heart of Milan: Piazza del Duomo

The tour culminates at Piazza del Duomo, Milan’s most iconic square. Here, travelers admire the Duomo’s 135 spires, 3,400 statues, and the golden Virgin Mary statue atop the cathedral. The guide highlights the cathedral’s long construction process and architectural details, making the visit more meaningful.

The Royal Palace and Additional Highlights

Finally, the group passes by Palazzo Reale, Milan’s former ducal and royal residence. Although interior visits are not included, the exterior view provides an understanding of Milan’s regal past. The tour concludes near Museo del Novecento, making it convenient for further exploration or transportation.

Practical Aspects: Group Size and Accessibility

The tour operates with a maximum of 30 travelers, ensuring a manageable and engaging experience. It features headsets so everyone can hear the guide clearly, especially in noisy or crowded areas. The meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy for visitors to join the tour without hassle.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The priority access to The Last Supper is the primary draw, as tickets to Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece are often difficult to obtain independently. The comprehensive itinerary covers essential Milanese sights, providing context and stories about each site. The experienced guides are praised for their knowledge and ability to deliver information engagingly, even in bad weather.

However, some reviews mention that the tour can feel crowded, with groups of 30-35 people, and that limited time at each site may leave some wishing for longer visits. Plus, no opportunities for food or refreshments are included, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This guided walking tour suits first-time visitors to Milan who want a broad overview of the city’s main attractions, especially those eager to see The Last Supper. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time who appreciate expert commentary and want the convenience of skip-the-line access. Those interested in architecture, art, and Milan’s history will find this tour offers a good balance of highlights and stories.

Final Thoughts on the Best of Milan Guided Tour

For just over $90, this tour provides a focused and efficient way to experience Milan’s essentials, with the benefit of priority access to da Vinci’s masterpiece. The inclusion of key landmarks like Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Castello Sforzesco makes it a solid choice for sightseeing newcomers.

While the group size and limited site access might be limitations for some, the knowledge of the guides and the well-structured itinerary offer real value. This tour is particularly recommended for those wanting a guided experience with guaranteed access to The Last Supper and a good overview of Milan’s most famous sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Does the tour include food or drinks?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price.

Can I cancel this tour for a full refund?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie and ends at the Duomo di Milano.

Are tickets to The Last Supper guaranteed?
Yes, the skip-the-line ticket ensures guaranteed entry, which is a key benefit of this tour.

What language are the guides available in?
Guides speak English, and are known for their engaging storytelling.

Is the group size small enough for a personalized experience?
The maximum group size is 30 travelers, balancing group cohesion with personal attention.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the walking involved.

Is the tour available in rainy weather?
Yes, the tour proceeds rain or shine, so bring appropriate gear if necessary.