You might think Milan in summer is boring.
You might think it’s empty.
But it’s not. At all.

Sure, locals head to the coast or to the Alps, the pace slows — but Milan’s summer hides many cool surprises and plenty to do.

Beat the heat in museums

When the city sizzles, head indoors to air-conditioned museums for both culture and cool relief. Highlights include:

  • Museo del Novecento, Pinacoteca di Brera, GAM, Fondazione Prada, MUDEC and Gallerie d’Italia — many offer free admission on designated summer Sundays 

  • Visit Castello Sforzesco, not only for its museums but also for the shady courtyards and the open-air events it hosts. here

Green escapes

Milan may be a bustling city, but it has no shortage of parks and green spaces where you can slow down, find shade, and enjoy a summer breeze (yes, they do exist!). Whether you’re looking to read under the trees, have a picnic, or just rest your legs, here are some great options:

  • Parco Sempione
    Right behind Castello Sforzesco, this is Milan’s most iconic central park. Wide lawns, tree-lined paths, a small lake, and even a library (under the trees!) make it a perfect spot for a slow summer afternoon. Great for kids, too.

  • Giardini della Guastalla
    A small, historic gem near the University and the Ospedale Maggiore. It’s quiet, shady, and feels like a secret garden in the middle of the city — perfect for a break between museum visits or an early evening walk.

  • Biblioteca degli Alberi (BAM – Tree Library)
    This new green space in Porta Nuova is a modern take on a park: think geometric lawns, wildflower meadows, and skyline views. It often hosts yoga sessions, outdoor concerts, and art installations. Great if you’re looking for something different and contemporary.

  • Parco Lambro
    Want to go a bit further out and feel like you’re in the countryside? Head east to Parco Lambro — it’s bigger, wilder, and ideal for a longer walk or a quiet corner under the trees. Less curated, more real.

  • Giardino della Villa Belgiojoso Bonaparte (Villa Reale)
    Next to the GAM (Gallery of Modern Art), this park has a romantic feel — fountains, sculptures, and elegant trees surround the historic villa. It’s smaller, but lovely for a cultural break in the shade.

Indoor shopping

When the sun is high and the humidity climbs, sometimes the best escape is… indoors with air conditioning. Luckily, Milan offers some elegant and spacious indoor shopping areas where you can cool off, browse, and grab a bite — all without breaking a sweat.

  • CityLife Shopping District
    Milan’s most modern shopping mall, nestled in the futuristic CityLife district. It’s sleek, air-conditioned, and filled with a mix of high-street brands, concept stores, cafés, and restaurants. Plus, it’s surrounded by architecture designed by Zaha Hadid, Arata Isozaki and Daniel Libeskind — so you get a dose of design even before walking in.

  • La Rinascente (Duomo)
    Right next to the Duomo, this high-end department store offers eight floors of fashion, design, beauty and gourmet food. The top-floor terrace bar has some of the best views in Milan, especially at sunset — a perfect spot for an aperitivo after a shopping session.

  • Il Centro (Arese)
    If you’re up for a little trip out of town, Il Centro di Arese is one of the largest malls in Europe. Spacious, modern, and family-friendly, with international brands, restaurants, and lots of space to walk and cool off.

Our tours are chill and relaxed

Milan in summer might feel quiet — but it really isn’t.
It’s full of art, culture, shady escapes and refreshing surprises. The city may be hot, yes — but it’s also beautiful, vibrant and very much alive.

Take the chance to slow down, explore at your own pace, and discover corners you didn’t know existed. From cool parks to hidden neighborhoods, indoor treasures and open-air concerts — let us show you a summer in Milan that’s anything but boring.