Visiting Milan with kids isn’t impossible—or boring—but it does require a plan. It’s not a theme park city, yet there are many great options if we know where to look. After several family visits, we’ve discovered what works, what we wouldn’t repeat, and what’s truly worth including on your itinerary.
Here’s our experienced-based guide, packed with practical tips to save time (and tantrums).
1. Plan Smart: What Nobody Tells You Before You Go
Mondays in Milan: Museum Day Off
This is crucial: most museums in Milan are closed on Mondays. We learned this firsthand—at the museum entrance. So avoid scheduling any cultural visits on that day.
Instead, use Mondays for outdoor time—like wandering the city, visiting the Duomo, or lounging in a park. If you have several days, we suggest starting the Monday with lighter, open-air activities.
Rainy Day? Here’s What Saves the Day
We’ve been there too—wet weather and restless kids. Fortunately, Milan has excellent indoor options.
One favorite is the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology. Large, central, and very interactive. From drones to old machines, kids can touch, explore, and learn on their own terms.
Another gem is the MUBA (Children’s Museum of Milan). It’s designed for hands-on exploration, not “Don’t touch.” Its motto is “Here, YES!”—a perfect rainy-day winner.
If you’re looking for energy release with water, AquaWorld, near Monza, is a covered water park with warm pools and slides—ideal in any weather.
Places to Visit with Kids in Milan
Here’s a selection of fun and educational spots for families with kids. Find out what each place offers, where it’s located, and whether it’s open on Mondays.
| Place | Description | Monday |
|---|---|---|
| Leonardo Da Vinci Museum | Interactive museum in the city center. Great for all ages. | ❌ Closed |
| MUBA – Children’s Museum | Creative workshops for kids aged 3 to 10. Located downtown. | ❌ Closed |
| WOW Comic Museum | Museum for superhero fans. Central location. | ✅ Open |
| Natural History Museum | Great for ages 5 to 12. In Porta Venezia district. | ❌ Closed |
| Ulrico Hoepli Planetarium | Astronomy shows from age 6. Porta Venezia area. | ❌ Closed |
| Triennale Kids | Art workshops for creative kids from age 5. In Sempione Park. | ✅ Open |
| Civic Aquarium | Marine life discovery for all ages. Sempione Park. | ✅ Open |
| Sempione Park | Urban park for free play and family rest. Central location. | ✅ Open |
2. Interactive Museums and Spaces for Curious Kids
Leonardo da Vinci Museum – Science, Machines, and Touch
It’s not strictly a kid-only museum, but the interactive displays—designed around Leonardo’s inventions—captivated our whole family. From models of ancient aircraft to a real submarine, we left thoroughly entertained. It’s easy to reach from the city center.
MUBA – Where Touching Is Encouraged
Perfect for kids aged 3–10. MUBA is filled with creative play zones, workshops, and interactive exhibits. Book ahead when possible—but if it rains, this place is a safe bet.
WOW Spazio Fumetto (Comic Museum) & Natural History Museum
For comic-loving kids, WOW is small and engaging. And if they love dinosaurs, the Milan Natural History Museum offers fascinating fossil displays right next to the Planetarium.
Triennale Kids – Art, Design, and Workshops
The Triennale (art and design museum) includes TDM Kids, an area with hands-on workshops for creative kids. Even if the activities are in Italian, kids generally pick up on the fun quickly.
3. Parks and Green Spaces to Relax and Play
Sempione Park
Right behind Sforza Castle, this large city park is perfect for running, picnicking, or enjoying an ice cream. With playgrounds, pond-side benches, and shady lawns—it’s our go-to mid-visit break.
Ulrico Hoepli Planetarium
Located near the Natural History Museum, the Planetarium runs occasional kids’ programs. Be sure to check the schedule, as it isn’t always open.
Civic Aquarium of Milan
Not huge, but charming and often free or low-cost. A quick, calming visit that’s great for younger kids.
4. Outdoor Excursions Near Milan: Parks, Miniature Worlds, and More
Leolandia Theme Park
Perfect for toddlers and young children. Featuring Peppa Pig World, mini-Italy, gentle rides, and animal figures. Near Bergamo, it’s a full-day adventure—but check the schedule, since it doesn’t open every day.
Prehistoric Park (Parco della Preistoria)
This outdoor park allows kids to hunt for dinosaur figures hidden in trees—plus a small train ride and picnic spots. It’s simple, yet surprisingly effective.
Movieland Park & Volandia (Flight Museum)
Movieland offers movie-themed rides and shows near Lake Garda—great if you have older kids or a car.
Volandia, near Malpensa Airport, focuses on aviation—with interactive displays and simulators. A fun pre-flight experience.
5. Alternatives for Hot Days or When You Just Want a Break
AquaWorld Indoor Waterpark
We mention it again because it’s a winner—warm water, slides, indoor fun—perfect for any weather scenario.
Le Cornelle Zoo & Safari Park Pombia
We’ve visited Le Cornelle once. The small enclosures and ethical considerations mean we wouldn’t go back—but respect that some families still value animal experiences. Safari Park Pombia offers a drive-through experience, which some kids love.
What We’d Skip and What We’d Repeat
No zoo for us next time. But we’d absolutely return to:
- Leonardo da Vinci Museum
- MUBA
- Leolandia
And for downtime, we’d choose Sempione Park or the Natural History Museum for a perfect combo of fun and ease.
Conclusion: What We Learned and Recommend
Milan with kids isn’t just doable—it can be delightful, with the right preparation. Not every attraction is family-friendly, but assembling a mix of museums, parks, and alternate adventures makes for a memorable trip.
Our Top 3 Family Picks:
- Leonardo da Vinci Museum
- MUBA
- Leolandia (if time and transport allow)
Add some green time, an indoor backup plan, and you’ll find that Milan with kids can be more charming than you ever expected.
