Sempione Park

Sempione Park features monuments and gardens across more than 47 hectares (116 acres) of land near the centre of Milan. The tranquil park is a welcome escape from the busy streets and notoriously hot northern Italian summers. Locals congregate on lawns amongst the trees to picnic, play sport and catch up with friends and family. Sit around the large pond at the centre of the park to people-watch. Walk to the Arch of Peace, a 19th-century monument on the northern end of the park, or climb the Torre Branca (Branca Tower) to gaze across Milan.

Hire a bicycle and spend a day exploring Sempione Park. Ride along the paths that wind their way through the gardens. The huge trees provide plenty of shade. When you’re done, find a quiet patch of grass and relax. You won’t be alone, as the park is a favourite among locals especially during afternoon siestas. A bridge crosses the centre of the park. Walk across to discover some of Sempione’s famous monuments.

The most popular attraction is Branca Tower, a 108-metre (354-foot) structure. Climb or take the elevator to the viewing platform that’s 97 meters (318 feet) above the ground and gaze across the city. Look for the spires of the Duomo that loom above the historic centre. The Arch of Peace was built on top of the ancient Roman walls that once surrounded the city. The monument, built in 1807, resembles the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and acted as a gate to Milan.

In the eastern part of the park is the Arena Civica, which was built in 1806 and modelled on the Circo Massimo in Rome. Napolean attended the opening. Watch a game of soccer or rugby and enjoy the atmosphere; Italians are passionate about their sport and a soccer game here is a lively event.

Sempione Park is a short metro or tram ride from the centre of Milan. There is ample parking in nearby streets available for a small fee. Sempione Park is open every day and is free to enter.