Grande Milano, or Greater Milan, is the urban area surrounding the city of Milan, the capital of Lombardy in Italy. This guide covers the locations surrounding Milan that fall into the boundaries of the provinces of Milan as well as Monza and Brianza under the administrative split of Lombardy.

One can assume that all of the towns around Milan are just bedroom communities providing the big city with extra labour force, this is very much not the case with Grande Milano. Many of the localities have their own unique character and history, with town centres full of architectural heritage and much to offer in terms of culture and sightseeing. As most are within half an hour of Milan, extending your visit to the city with day trips may enrich your experience exponentially.

Cities

• 1 Milan (Milano) – the capital of Lombardy, the Milan province and the centre of the metropolitan area
• 2 Monza – known primarily for the racing track, but also boasting a beautiful large park and a pedestrianized historic town centre
• 3 Legnano – the only town other than Rome named in the Italian national anthem
• 4 Paderno Dugnano – one of the youngest cities in Italy, only created as such in 1989
• 5 San Donato Milanese – possession of the archbishops of Milan, reachable from Milan by metro
• 6 San Giorgio su Legnano – since 1957, hosting the annual Campaccio, a cross country running event which attracts world class athletes

Other destinations

• 1 Abbey of Viboldone (Abbazia di Viboldone) – is an abbey in Viboldone, a frazione of San Giuliano Milanese
• 2 Agliata Basilic (Basilica Agliate) – is a basilic in Agliate, a frazione of Carate Brianza

Understand

The northern part of Grande Milano contains the historic land of Brianza, which spills to some extent onto the provinces around Lake Como.

Go next

Province of Milan