The striking architecture of the centrally located Duomo is one of the most appealing sights in the city and has been a popular attraction for visitors for centuries. Several city parks and gardens are well-placed around the centre, providing some quiet time for visitors from the city’s fast-paced urban environment.

Arena Civica: is one of Italy’s finest aquariums, boasting more than 30 tanks and a wide variety of exotic marine life. The building is in Art Nouveau style, constructed in the early 20th century, for the Italian national exposition. Its exhibits include a large number of species of tropical fish as well as Italian freshwater animal life.

Duomo: in the centre of Milan is the 14th century Duomo, the city's most recognisable landmark. After St Peter’s at the Vatican and the Seville Cathedral, Milan’s Duomo is the largest church still standing. As with other great European buildings, its construction required centuries to complete.

Napoleon ordered the Duomo’s facade to be completed during the 19th century and over the years, features such as the huge stained-glass panels, the Holy Nail of the Cross, numerous paintings and statues were added to the structure. There are outstanding views of the entire city from the Duomo’s rooftop terrace.

Today, the gardens feature serene lakes, elegant statues, monuments and a couple of museums. The 18th-century Palazzo Dugnale, also located in the gardens, houses the Greenhouse Laboratories.

Pirelli Tower (Grattacielo Pirelli): situated outside the Giardini Pubblici, this tower became the world's largest reinforced concrete structure on its completion in 1955, reaching an impressive 417ft. The landmark is named after the site on which it was erected, that of the first Pirelli tyre factory. Atop the tower stands a statue of the Virgin Mary, placed here as a sign of respect.

The removal of layers of over-painting, added in the 18th and 19th centuries, has been the source of ongoing controversy as has speculation as to how the painting survived bombing during WWII, which destroyed the refectory’s roof.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: is a magnificent arcade made of glass, located on Piazza della Scala. The gallery is topped by a 155ft glass dome and features an array of cafes and shops as well as the famous Savini restaurant. Construction on the gallery started in 1865 and took two years to complete, at which time it was officially opened by King Vittorio Emanuele II. Note the intricate mosaics that form the floors throughout.