Discovering Milan with kids

Embracing… la dolce vita! What to see in Milan with children 🫧

Planning a family vacation to Milan, Italy’s bustling fashion and design capital, may initially seem challenging. However, scratch beneath the surface, and you’ll discover a city rich in history, culture, and unforgettable experiences suitable for the young and, of course, the young-at-heart.  

Are you in Milan for one day only? Our article will answer all your burning questions.

👣 Getting around 

Start your trip right by familiarizing yourself with Milan’s efficient public transportation. The city’s metro system, tramways, and buses make it convenient to navigate to and from key attractions. Choose the “urban ticket” for unlimited travel within 90 minutes. Also, for a truly unforgettable experience, try a family bike-tour through the city’s network of cycle paths and remember to pick up a map at the information center—we know you’ve got your GPS, but a map’s always a great souvenir! 

#1 Duomo di Milano ⛪ 

One of Milan’s iconic landmarks, the Duomo di Milano, is an architectural marvel that will capture children’s imaginations. Your family can explore its intricate façade, stained glass windows, and, for a small fee, climb to the rooftop for panoramic city views.  

#2 Castello Sforzesco 🏰 

To really get a sense of Milan’s history, book a kid-friendly tour of Sforzesco Castle—one of the most recognizable symbols of the city. These tours, designed with kids in mind, bring the castle’s history to life through engaging stories and explorations. Castello Sforzesco also features an impressive collection of museums, such as the Musical Instruments Museum, Museo dell Arte Antica, the Archeological Museum and the Furniture Museum, that will surely captivate you as well as your little ones. 

#3 Parco Sempione 🌲 

Milan is much more than concrete and cathedrals; it’s home to numerous beautiful parks. Parco Sempione, located behind the Sforza Castle, offers you and your family a picturesque oasis where you can unwind and try out fun activities. Your adventure could start with a leisurely walk, a yummy picnic, or a rented bike ride along the winding paths, letting kids marvel at the park’s diverse flora and fauna. Children can also enjoy playgrounds and mini train rides while you can take a well-deserved break and savor a delicious Milanese cappuccino at one of the local cafes. The park’s pond, where you can rent paddle boats, is another family-favorite attraction. 

#4 The Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science & Technology ⚗️ 

For your budding scientists and astronauts, the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology is a must-visit. Dedicated to the famous painter and scientist Leonardo da Vinci, this is the largest science and technology museum in Italy. With interactive exhibits showcasing Leonardo’s inventive genius, alongside insights into astronomy, energy, and transportation, the museum makes learning fun and engaging for both you and your kids. Something you can’t miss if you are visiting Milan with kids!

#5 Natural History Museum 🦕 

Are your children passionate about science, animals and dinosaurs? Then you cannot leave Milan without a visit to the Natural History Museum! Despite being smaller than other Natural History Museums in Europe, it’s definitely worth a visit with the whole fam thanks to its impressive collections of minerals, dinosaurs, as well as extinct animals and plants. Aside from its educational institutions, the Indro Montanelli Public Gardens Park, where the museum is located, also offers you boat rides on its serene pond, for another fun activity. 

#6 Navigli 🎨 

Navigli, the charming district in Milan, which is famous for its network of canals, offers you a distinctive side of the city away from its bustling center. A must if you are visiting Milan with kids! The area has a Bohemian spirit with many artists’ studios, quirky shops, antique markets, and vibrant nightlife. Navigli is particularly popular for its lined-up restaurants and bars along the canal banks, where you can indulge in authentic Italian cuisine while enjoying a picturesque sunset view. During the day, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll with the whole family, soak in the historic atmosphere, and even take a fun boat ride on the canals. Each year, Navigli also hosts the Festa dei Navigli, a month-long celebration full of concerts, exhibitions, and street markets, which is worth your time.  

All of you, artistic families, should also check out the Museo delle Culture (MUDEC). This modern art museum offers you various workshops and art-making activities for you and your children for true Milanese creativity and fun! 

🍴Where to eat in Milan with kids 

When it comes to dining in Milan with children, the city gives you a delightful range of family-friendly eateries. A must-visit is Pizzeria Da Zero, celebrated for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizza that will undoubtedly be a hit with the young ones. If your family has a craving for traditional Milanese risotto, Trattoria Casa Fontana 23 Risotti has a charming, relaxed setting. La Taverna is another excellent choice, offering you also a children’s menu brimming with kid-approved Italian favorites.

For a sweet treat, the city’s numerous gelaterias like Gelato Giusto and Gelateria della Musica, popular for their unique flavors, will thrill your kids.  

Would you like some more suggestions for bars and restaurants in Milan? Check out our article Where to Eat and Drink in Milan.

Summing up… 

Visiting Milan with children will be a captivating journey filled with joy, discovery, and bonding. By pairing the city’s deep-rooted culture and history with fun and interactive experiences, you’ll make sure your children remember Milan as an enriching adventure.