Exploring The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci is a highlight for any visitor to Milan, but doing so as part of a walking tour brings the city’s vibrant streets and hidden stories to life. While many travelers focus solely on the famous painting, combining it with visits to Milan’s landmarks like the Duomo, La Scala, and Sforza Castle turns a quick stop into a memorable experience. We particularly like tours that include local guides who share the secrets behind the city’s architecture and history — that’s what makes these walking tours stand out.
The options below showcase two excellent choices for experiencing Milan’s highlights with a focus on The Last Supper. Both tours include skip-the-line access to da Vinci’s masterpiece, but each offers a different way to enjoy Milan’s streets and stories. Whether you’re after a deep dive into Milan’s art and architecture or prefer a lively, guided walk, these tours deliver.
1. Milan: Da Vinci’s Last Supper and Guided Walking Tour
At number 1 on our list is the Milan: Da Vinci’s Last Supper and Guided Walking Tour. This 3-hour experience combines the must-see Last Supper with a broader exploration of Milan’s key sights. It’s perfect if you want to combine art appreciation with a quick city overview. The tour skips the long lines to see Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, which can be a major time-saver in peak season.
What makes this tour stand out is its balanced approach: after marveling at the Last Supper, you’ll stroll past the Milan Duomo from the outside, admire the Sforza Castle, and walk through the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele II shopping arcade. The guide, a licensed local, offers insights into Milan’s history, architecture, and hidden stories, making it an educational as well as scenic experience. The reviews are strong — with an average of 4.7 out of 5 from 680 travelers — highlighting its professionalism and engaging storytelling. The tour is well-suited for those who want a comprehensive introduction to Milan without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: This tour offers great value for those who want a mix of art, history, and city sights in a compact format, with the added bonus of skipping the crowds at da Vinci’s Last Supper.
2. Milan: Skip-the-Line Guided Walk and “The Last Supper”
Coming in at number 2 is the Milan: Skip-the-Line Guided Walk and “The Last Supper”, a similarly timed 3-hour tour that emphasizes skip-the-line access and a guided exploration of Milan’s essential sites. With a 4.5-star rating from 606 reviews, this tour has a slightly more immersive city walk feel.
Starting at the iconic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, you’ll walk through Duomo Square, soaking in the views and learning about Milan’s fashion and cultural scene. The guide takes you past La Scala opera house and Sforza Castle, sharing fascinating facts along the way. The real highlight, of course, is the Last Supper, where you’ll see Leonardo’s work up close, facilitated by the skip-the-line ticket. The tour is particularly suitable for travelers interested in architectural details, Milano’s lively streets, and cultural history.
The itinerary includes visiting Via Dante, a lively pedestrian street, and concludes in front of Santa Maria delle Grazie, the church housing the masterpiece. The guide’s local expertise shines through, making the history accessible and lively. The tour’s practical setup, including the advance booking and skip-the-line access, makes it a favorite among travelers pressed for time but eager to see the highlights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a deeper understanding of Milan’s most famous landmarks while ensuring they don’t waste time waiting in lines.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, think about what fits your travel style and priorities. If you prefer a comprehensive city overview that combines art and architecture with a brief walk, the Milan: Da Vinci’s Last Supper and Guided Walking Tour offers a balanced experience at a good value. On the other hand, if your focus is maximizing time and getting priority access to da Vinci’s masterpiece, the Milan: Skip-the-Line Guided Walk and “The Last Supper” is a smart choice with a more city-centric route.
Consider your interests: if you want to explore Milan’s fashion district or enjoy in-depth historical stories, the second tour provides a more detailed narrative. If you enjoy seeing a variety of sights and learning about Milan’s medieval and renaissance landmarks, the first tour covers those bases nicely.
Practical tips: both tours last about 3 hours and include all the key sights, but book early, especially in peak season, since Last Supper tickets are limited. Check availability for your preferred dates and confirm whether the tour includes the skip-the-line access to da Vinci’s masterpiece, so you can plan your day accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Both walking tours give you a fantastic way to see Milan’s highlights while ensuring you don’t miss Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper. If your main goal is to maximize time and avoid lines, the skip-the-line tour is unbeatable. For a broader experience that combines art, landmarks, and local stories, the more balanced tour is perfect.
Consider your travel style, budget, and what you most want to see. Booking early is wise, especially for the da Vinci tickets, since they sell out months in advance. Regardless of your choice, these tours will deepen your appreciation of Milan’s artistry and history, making your visit truly memorable.
Happy exploring!
