Dec 2008 (annual) Basilica of Saint Ambrose
Milan's patron saint is celebrated annually with a beautiful Christmas market full of sweets and typical products. The "Oh Bej! Oh Bej!" fair, held every year in the area surrounding the Basilica di San Ambrogio, is one of the main annual folkloric events in the city. More
24 Feb - 2 Jun 2009 Palazzo Reale
With The Last Samurai Milan's Palazzo Reale explores the social, economical and political history of Japan during the Edo period (1615-1867). On display are outstanding and original Nipponese armours, helmets, swords and other accessories on loan from the Koelliker Collection. More
6 - 7 Nov 2009 MediolanumForum
An ancient arena is re-created at Milan's MediolanumForum for the production of Ben Hur Live. The show, which took 15 years in the making and coincides with the 50-year anniversary of the film, features over 400 performers and 100 animals. More
26 - 27 Sep 2009 (annual) Milan
Originally a French initiative, today European Heritage Days is a huge event held in several European states to celebrate the continent's artistic and cultural heritage. Milan joins in and discloses several restored artworks at various venues, including Brera Picture Gallery. More
Fri, Sat, and Sun only Museo del Cinema
Milan's cinematic museum may be small but it contains a host of rarities and unusual artefacts from the history of moving pictures, going all the way back to the 18th century. More
Daily Palazzo Reale
Despite on-going renovations, Palazzo Reale on Milan's main square exhibits contemporary art, photography, textiles and fashion in ornately gilded and decorated Neo-classical halls. Recent displays include Vivienne Westwood's fabulous designs and women painters from the Renaissance to Surrealism. More
Weekends only Castello Sforzesco
The awe-inspiring size of Sforza's Castle is reason enough to take a tour of its secret passages. Built by the ruling Visconti-Sforza family in the early 15th century, the castle served as both a sumptuous ducal residence and as a virtually impregnable fortress protecting the city. More
Daily La Scala
The world's favourite opera house, La Scala, on Piazza della Scala, boasts a recently-restored dazzling red velvet auditorium. Audiences at the exquisite performances of Italian operas and ballets are often dotted with international dignitaries. Book tickets before the season starts (December 7). More