Santa Maria delle Grazie Church travel guide

The Santa Maria delle Grazie Church, a prominent historical and religious site, is nestled in the heart of Milan. Conceived in the late 15th century, it exemplifies Lombardian architectural style, reflecting the essence of the Italian Renaissance.

The construction began in 1463 under the patronage of the Duke of Milan, Francesco Sforza, and was completed in 1490. The church was originally part of a Dominican convent, which was later expanded by the renowned architect Donato Bramante.

Bramante's contribution includes the notable apse and the cloisters, which add to the church's grandeur. However, the church's worldwide fame is largely due to Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper,' housed in the refectory of the convent.

Surviving significant damage during World War II, the church stands today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting millions of history and art aficionados annually. The Santa Maria delle Grazie Church, with its rich history and remarkable art, is a must-visit Milanese landmark.

Santa Maria delle Grazie Church is a unique blend of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles, a rarity in Italy. The red-bricked exterior, adorned with white marble embellishments, is a sight to behold. However, the church's interior truly sets it apart. Its dome, designed by Donato Bramante, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, marked by its octagonal shape and intricate frescoes. The church is also home to 'The Last Supper', a world-renowned mural by Leonardo da Vinci. This historic painting, located in the refectory of the convent, is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of the High Renaissance. Furthermore, the church's cloisters, 'the Cloister of the Frogs' and 'the Bramante Cloister', are noteworthy for their sublime tranquility and unique design. The former is known for its pond with a frog sculpture, while the latter, designed by Bramante, exhibits a harmonious blend of spatial geometry and natural elements.

Discover Santa Maria delle Grazie Church, a prime feature of Milan, in the vibrant Milan. Santa Maria delle Grazie Church is situated at Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, 20123 Milano MI, Italy, just a short distance from Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology and Triennale di Milano, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Santa Maria delle Grazie Church, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Milan, a city in Italy rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Milan to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Santa Maria delle Grazie Church. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Milan travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Santa Maria delle Grazie Church is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Milan, Italy. If you're flying in, Milan–Malpensa Airport is approximately 24.5 miles (39.4 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Santa Maria delle Grazie Church by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Milan, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Santa Maria delle Grazie Church, which is located 0.9 miles (1.5 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, 20123 Milano MI, Italy.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Santa Maria delle Grazie Church!

The best time to explore Santa Maria delle Grazie Church in Milan is during the spring (March to June) and fall (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is mostly mild and pleasant, ideal for enjoying the architectural beauty and the surrounding areas of the church. The summer months (July and August) can become quite crowded as it is the peak tourist season in Italy. However, visiting during the Christmas season (December) can be a unique experience; the church is beautifully decorated and the festive atmosphere is quite enchanting. To truly appreciate the masterpiece 'The Last Supper', it is advisable to book your ticket well in advance as it is a popular tourist attraction. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best time slots to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil visit. Regardless of the season, make sure to check the church's official opening hours and any special events or services that might affect your visit.

To truly enjoy your visit to Santa Maria delle Grazie Church, joining a guided tour of this renowned church in Milan is highly recommended. As one of Italy's most iconic attractions, Santa Maria delle Grazie Church draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Milan, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Santa Maria delle Grazie Church starting at just 39 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Milan, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Santa Maria delle Grazie Church.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic church in Italy.

Upon arriving at Milan–Malpensa Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Milan.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Milan.

Choosing the right accommodation near Santa Maria delle Grazie Church from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Milan can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Santa Maria delle Grazie Church, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Santa Maria delle Grazie Church, Milan boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From church to park, the top attractions in Milan offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Milan is Duomo di Milano, located at P. Za del Duomo, 20122 Milano MI, Italy. This well-known church enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is worth seeing when you're in Milan. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at P. Za del Duomo, 20123 Milano MI, Italy.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Parco Sempione completes any trip to Milan. This park draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Piazza Sempione, 20154 Milano MI, Italy, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Milan below to discover even more incredible places to explore.