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Book Sforza Castle Tickets & Tours
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- Discover the medieval Sforza Castle on this self-guided tour with a multilingual audio guide.
- This notable landmark of Milan was built in the 14th century and was one of the most magnificent residences of its time then.
- Explore the red-brick facade of this fortress castle and continue inside to the expansive courtyard. The towers of the castle are most distinctive, especially Torre del Filarete.
- The Sforza Castle is also home to several museums showcasing art, paintings, sculptures, and other works by famous artists like Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and more.
- Take delight in experiencing Michelangelo's Pietà Rondanini, a remarkable sculpture that offers a profound connection to the artistic legacy of the renowned master.
- This ticket also allows you to go on a self-guided tour of Milan.
- Discover the iconic sights of the city such as the Duomo di Milano, Santa Maria delle Grazie, Sempione Park, and more.
- Discover the medieval Sforza Castle on this self-guided tour with a multilingual audio guide.
- This notable landmark of Milan was built in the 14th century and was one of the most magnificent residences of its time then.
- Explore the red-brick facade of this fortress castle and continue inside to the expansive courtyard. The towers of the castle are most distinctive, especially Torre del Filarete.
- The Sforza Castle is also home to several museums showcasing art, paintings, sculptures, and other works by famous artists like Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and more.
- Take delight in experiencing Michelangelo's Pietà Rondanini, a remarkable sculpture that offers a profound connection to the artistic legacy of the renowned master.
- This ticket also allows you to go on a self-guided tour of Milan.
- Discover the iconic sights of the city such as the Duomo di Milano, Santa Maria delle Grazie, Sempione Park, and more.
Inclusions
- Reserved entry to the Sforza Castle and the museum
- Self-guided audio tour of the Sforza Castle
- Multilingual audio commentary in English, German, French, Italian, and Spanish
- Self-guided audio tour of Milan
Exclusions
- Mobile device
- Headphones
- Public transportation tickets
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Explore symbolism in Leonardo's The Last Supper and the Sforza Castle mural as an English-speaking guide shares secrets hidden in layers of paint.
- Imagine yourself at the table, as Christ reveals the betrayal among apostles! The accuracy of perspective and human reaction makes it all feel very real.
- From being torn in a war to standing tall as a citadel and fort, listen to the life story of Sforza Castle as you waltz through its lush interiors.
- Dive into artistic details like perspective, colors, techniques, composition, and so much more with your art historian guide.
- Upgrade to include tram transfer for quick and convenient access to Sforza Castle, where Leonardo's painted ceiling awaits to mesmerize you.
- Explore symbolism in Leonardo's The Last Supper and the Sforza Castle mural as an English-speaking guide shares secrets hidden in layers of paint.
- Imagine yourself at the table, as Christ reveals the betrayal among apostles! The accuracy of perspective and human reaction makes it all feel very real.
- From being torn in a war to standing tall as a citadel and fort, listen to the life story of Sforza Castle as you waltz through its lush interiors.
- Dive into artistic details like perspective, colors, techniques, composition, and so much more with your art historian guide.
- Upgrade to include tram transfer for quick and convenient access to Sforza Castle, where Leonardo's painted ceiling awaits to mesmerize you.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of Last Supper and Sforza Castle
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Last Supper ticket
- Entry to Sforza Castle
- Tram transfers (optional)
- Tip: When the best viewing experience of The Last Supper, try to position yourself towards the center of the room facing the north wall of the refectory,.
- Shutterbugs, take note: Flash photography is a no-go inside the venue.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Explore the Sforza Castle on a 1.5-hour guided tour and discover Michelangelo's final masterpiece, joined by a small group with an English or Italian-speaking guide.
- Wander through the Sforza museums featuring Roman stone coffins, medieval ivories, prehistoric tools, Egyptian mummies, and other 15th-century artifacts.
- Marvel at Leonardo da Vinci's intricate frescoes in the Room of Wooden Boards, where trees and leaves are painted to flow across the walls.
- Check out Bramantino's tapestries featuring scenes of agricultural activities, Roman deities, and zodiac signs, each specific for 12 months of the year.
- Learn about the castle’s history under French, Spanish, and Austrian rule and visit the Ducal Courtyard, a quiet respite after exploring the Sforza.
- Explore the Sforza Castle on a 1.5-hour guided tour and discover Michelangelo's final masterpiece, joined by a small group with an English or Italian-speaking guide.
- Wander through the Sforza museums featuring Roman stone coffins, medieval ivories, prehistoric tools, Egyptian mummies, and other 15th-century artifacts.
- Marvel at Leonardo da Vinci's intricate frescoes in the Room of Wooden Boards, where trees and leaves are painted to flow across the walls.
- Check out Bramantino's tapestries featuring scenes of agricultural activities, Roman deities, and zodiac signs, each specific for 12 months of the year.
- Learn about the castle’s history under French, Spanish, and Austrian rule and visit the Ducal Courtyard, a quiet respite after exploring the Sforza.
Inclusions
- 1.5 hour guided tour of Sforza Castle and Michelangelo's Pietà Rondanini
- Entry tickets to Sforza Castle
- English or Italian-speaking guide
- Small group guided tour
- Headphones for more than 11 participants
- Tip: Check out the Sforza Castle’s coat of arms, featuring a Biscione (grass snake) which is the Sforza family’s symbol and a recognizable emblem of Milan.
- Bulky bags and backpacks are not allowed inside the castle and must be left in the cloakroom lockers next to the Castello Sforzesco ticket office.
- The first and third Tuesdays of the month have free entry starting from 2 pm. The first Sunday of every month is also free, all day.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible. However, please note that rooms XX to XXII in the Art Gallery have some steps.
- Wheelchairs are available at the ticket office.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Combos
Combo: Villa Necchi Campiglio + Sforza Castle Tickets
from
€28.50
- Maximize your savings as you enter 2 of Italy’s most magnificent residences – Villa Necchi Campiglio and Sforza Castle – with an audio guide.
- Discover the massive villa and its charming gardens in which the Necchi sisters lived, and the exquisite curation of art within.
- At Sforza Castle, admire the red-brick facade of this fortress and continue inside to the expansive courtyard.
- This ticket grants you access to the Castle’s 10 museums that hold paintings, sculptures, and other artworks by Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and more.
- The audio guide can be used not just for an in-depth understanding of these landmarks, but also for a self-guided tour of Milan!
- Maximize your savings as you enter 2 of Italy’s most magnificent residences – Villa Necchi Campiglio and Sforza Castle – with an audio guide.
- Discover the massive villa and its charming gardens in which the Necchi sisters lived, and the exquisite curation of art within.
- At Sforza Castle, admire the red-brick facade of this fortress and continue inside to the expansive courtyard.
- This ticket grants you access to the Castle’s 10 museums that hold paintings, sculptures, and other artworks by Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and more.
- The audio guide can be used not just for an in-depth understanding of these landmarks, but also for a self-guided tour of Milan!
Inclusions
Villa Necchi Campiglio
- Entry to the Villa and gardens
- Audio guide in English and Italian
Sforza Castle
- Entry to the Castle and museums
- Self-guided audio tour of Sforza Castle & Milan in English, German, French, Italian, and Spanish
Exclusions
- Mobile devices
- Headsets
- Tip: To get from Villa Necchi Campiglio to Sforza Castle, you can walk 300m to Palestro metro station and board a train going toward Rho Fieramilano or Bisceglie. In just 6 minutes you will reach Cairoli metro station, from which Sforza Castle is only 180m away.
Villa Necchi Campiglio
- Tip: Villa Necchi was used as a set in the film House of Gucci, try to recall some memorable scenes as you walk through!
- Facilities: Wheelchair accessible.
- However, strollers and pushchairs will have to be left at the entrance.
- Dogs on leashes are allowed in the gardens but not inside the villa.
Sforza Castle
- Tip: For the best pictures and relatively fewer crowds, we recommend you visit during the early/opening hours.
- While the castle and the rest of the museums are wheelchair accessible, please note that Rooms XX to XXII in the Art Gallery have some steps.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Unlock entry to attractions & museums and enjoy savings of up to 70% on tickets, and public transportation with this cost-effective Milan City Pass.
- With this 3-day Pass, visit sites such as Sforza Castle museums, Civic Aquarium, and Duomo, among others.
- Get complimentary access to public transportation for 3 days. Zoom across the city in ATM trams, buses, and metros within Zone Mi1-Mi3.
- The Standard Pass grants access to Civic Museums plus 1 premium activity. The All-Inclusive Pass offers access to Civic Museums and all premium activities.
- Save paper with 100% digital passes which are super easy to use, mobile-friendly, and convenient for anyone who hates standing in ticketing queues.
- Unlock entry to attractions & museums and enjoy savings of up to 70% on tickets, and public transportation with this cost-effective Milan City Pass.
- With this 3-day Pass, visit sites such as Sforza Castle museums, Civic Aquarium, and Duomo, among others.
- Get complimentary access to public transportation for 3 days. Zoom across the city in ATM trams, buses, and metros within Zone Mi1-Mi3.
- The Standard Pass grants access to Civic Museums plus 1 premium activity. The All-Inclusive Pass offers access to Civic Museums and all premium activities.
- Save paper with 100% digital passes which are super easy to use, mobile-friendly, and convenient for anyone who hates standing in ticketing queues.
Inclusions
- Standard Pass/All-Inclusive Pass/24-hr Flash City Pass (as per option selected)
- Valid for 24hrs or 3 days (as per option selected)
- Unlimited access to public transport (Metro Zone Mi1-Mi3, trams, and buses)
- Access to Duomo Cathedral and Rooftop with stairs or lift (as per option selected)
- Choose one activity from a curated list (for Flash & Standard Pass)
- Free entry to specific museums
- Discounts of up to 30% at select attractions and services
- Digital maps and audio guides via the YesMilanoPass app
Exclusions
- Travel via regional train
- Food & drinks
- Private transfer
- Transfer from/to Milano Malpensa airport and Milan Bergamo-Orio al Serio
- Entry to attractions not included in the specific pass variant
- Each included attraction can be visited once for free.
- Some of the attractions require a reservation in advance, so please check accordingly.
- Pets are not allowed.
- Download the YesMilano Pass app on your mobile phone and start your Milan adventure without any delays. Log in to the app using your reference code and travel date.
- Plan your visit by choosing an activation date for your Pass. Then click on 'Activities' to secure spots for your chosen attractions. Tap 'Transport' to use your public transport ticket.
- The Pass is to be used within 3 consecutive calendar days.
- Single admission only, repeat visits to attractions or activities are not permitted.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Top things to do in Milan
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Why Visit Sforza Castle?
- Largest Fortified Structure: The Sforza Castle is one of the most beautiful fortified structures in Italy, and one of the largest in Europe.
- Cultural Heritage: Originally built as a military citadel, the castle has been a site of important political events and cultural exhibitions. Today, it is one of the most prominent cultural hubs in Milan.
- Art and Architecture: Home to several museums and galleries, including the Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of Musical Instruments, and the Egyptian Museum, the castle houses some of the most impressive works of art and architecture in Italy.
- View Michelangelo’s Last Work: Sforza Castle is home to Michelangelo’s last work-his Pietà Rondanini, which was left unfinished due to the artist’s death.
- Interactive Learning: They offer many interesting events and activities at the Sforza Castle that will teach you about the castle’s history, making it a great place for families to visit.
All Your Sforza Castle Ticket Options Explained
Entry Tickets
Duration: Flexible
- Enjoy reserved entry into the Sforza Castle.
- Explore the castle at your own pace with the help of a multilingual audio guide.
- The audio guide will also help you explore the city of Milan on your own.
Recommended Tours
Sforza Castle Entry + Self-Guided Audio Tour of Castle & Milan
Combo Tours
Duration: Flexible
- Explore Sforza Castle and other prominent attractions in the city, such as Villa Necchi Campiglio, at a budgeted rate.
- Take advantage of the audio guide on this self-guided tour to learn about the two magnificent residences as well as Milan.
Recommended Tours
Explore Sforza Castle
Pinacoteca del Castello Sforzesco
An art museum, the Pinacoteca del Castello Sforzesco houses a vast collection of Italian Renaissance and Lombard art. Some of the highlights include works by Mantegna, Bellini, and Antonello da Messina.
The Museum of Ancient Art
The museum boasts an extensive and amazing collection of sculptures from the medieval and the Italian Renaissance era, including works by Michelangelo and Donatello.
The Museum of Musical Instruments:
An ode to the musical heritage of Italy, particularly the Lombard region, you will find a collection of more than 700 musical instruments over here. This includes Stradivarius violins and harpsichords from the 16th century.
The Egyptian Museum
If you want to explore a bit of Egypt in Milan, then visiting the Egyptian Museum in the Sforza Museum Complex is a no-brainer. This museum, dedicated to ancient Egypt, houses over 1,500 artifacts, including sarcophagi, statues, and jewelry.
Applied Arts Collection
The museum showcases decorative arts and crafts from the 15th to the 20th century, including ceramics, glass, textiles, silverware, jewelry, ivories, pottery, and art glass.
The Antique Furniture & Wooden Sculpture Museum
Located on the first floor of the Sforza Castle museum complex, the museum is home to furniture and wooden sculptures from the 15th to the 19th century.
The Achille Bertarelli Print Collection
Another gem of a museum in the Sforza Castle museum, it houses a collection of over 6,000 prints, including works by Rembrandt, Goya, and Picasso. This must-visit museum is open to the public by appointment only.
The Museum of the Rondanini Pietà
One of the most famous museums in the complex, the Museum of the Rondanini Pietà houses Michelangelo’s last work the Rondanini Pietà, which depicts the body of Christ in the arms of the Virgin Mary.
The Biblioteca Trivulziana
A library that houses antique books, documents, and bindings from the 14th to 19th centuries. You will find some rare manuscripts and early printed books, here. In 1978, the Biblioteca undertook some major restoration works to preserve its collections.
The Archaeological Museum of Milan
Delve into the history of Milan, and learn about the city that is home to famous landmarks such as the Duomo, through artifacts ranging from prehistoric times to the Roman Empire.
The Medal and Numistica Collection
The museum features one of Italy's most significant numismatic collections with over 30,000 items from ancient Greece to the present day.
The Sala delle Asse
The Sala delle Asse is a room that is famous for the mural paintings created by Leonardo da Vinci. The room was commissioned by Ludovico Sforza, in the late 15th century.
The Drawing Collection
Considered one of the most important and extensive collections of drawings in Italy, with works spanning from the 14th to the 19th centuries.
Achille Bertarelli Engraving Collection
A significant collection of Italian and European prints from the 16th to the 18th century. The collection was donated to the city of Milan in 1928 by Achille Bertarelli.
Parco Sempione
Covering an area of 95 acres, Parco Sempione is one of the largest green spaces in Milan. Located behind the castle, the park was designed in the late 1800s and features a mix of natural and formal elements.
Plan your Visit to Sforza Castle
Opening Hours
Location
Entrances
Exhibitions
Facilities
Accessibility
Eat
Stay
Tips
Nearby
Sforza Castle
Daily, 7 AM to 7:30 PM
Castle Museums
Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 5:30 PM
Closed: Mondays, 25 December, 1 January, and 1 May
Best Time to Visit
If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience, it's best to visit early in the morning when the castle opens at 7 AM or later in the evening, closer to when it closes at 7:30 PM.
Address: Piazza Castello - 20121 Milano [Find on Maps]
Getting There
By Subway: Take the red line and get off at the Cairoli or Cadorna FN stops. You can also take the green line and get off at either Lanza or Cadorna FN stops.
By Tram: Served by lines 1, 2, 4, 12, 14, and 27.
By Bus: Served by bus numbers 50, 57, 58, 61, and 94.
The Sforza Castle has multiple entrances:
- The main entrance is located in Piazza Castello, while there are other entrances to Via Milazzo and Via Sforza.
- There are also several secondary entrances along the castle walls.
- The exact number of entrances may vary depending on how they are counted, but there are at least three main entrances and several secondary entrances.
- Glass and Opera Exhibition
3 December 2022 to 30 April 2023
It is a collective exhibition of 20 contemporary artists who were invited to create glassworks inspired by the opera. - Musical Encounters with the Baroque Orchestra
17 December 2022 to 27 May 2023
This includes 6 concerts on Saturday afternoons. - Showboat Round Trip
29 March 2023 to 25 June 2023
After 8 years, Giovanni Frangi returns to exhibit his artworks in Milan.
- Restaurants and Cafes: There are several restaurants and cafes located within the castle grounds where visitors can enjoy a meal or a coffee.
- Gift Shops: There are also several gift shops where visitors can purchase souvenirs, books, and other items related to the castle and its history.
- Toilets: Toilets are easily available throughout the Sforza Castle museum castle.
- Elevators: Elevators are installed to provide access to visitors with mobility impairments, as well as to make it easier to navigate the castle's multiple floors.
- The main entrance and all restrooms at Sforza Castle are accessible for wheelchair users.
- Elevators have also been installed in the Sforza Castle complex for the convenience of people with reduced mobility.
- You can take wheelchairs free of charge from the information desk for use during your visit to the castle.
- All the staff at Sforza Castle are trained and will be happy to help people with reduced mobility enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free visit.
- Calicantus Sforzesco (80 m away): A vegetarian restaurant with a cozy and charming ambiance, serving creative and healthy dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Chiosco Squadre Calcio (110 m away): A casual, outdoor kiosk serving street food and snacks, perfect for a quick bite while on the go.
- Al Politico (110 m away): A cozy, traditional Italian trattoria with a rustic atmosphere and authentic Milanese cuisine.
- Hierbas Milano (160 m away): A trendy, modern restaurant with innovative Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
- Budget
Hotel Ritter (300 m away), Hotel Cervo Milano (500 m away)
- Mid-Range
Hotel Mentana (0.4 km away), Hotel Sanpi Milano (0.6 km away)
- Luxury
Hotel Boscolo Milano Autograph Collection (500 m away), Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa (800 meters away)
- Plan Ahead: Book your tickets online and in advance to avoid the disappointment of tickets selling out.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The Sfroza Castle complex is huge and exploring it would involve a lot of walking, so it is best to wear comfortable shoes.
- Opt For a Guided Tour: Take a guided tour to learn about the Sforza Castle’s history and cultural significance..
- Follow the Rules: The Sforza Castle is home to a lot of priceless works of art, so it is imperative that you follow the rules in place. For example, flash photography is not allowed at the castle.
- La Scala Theatre: A museum showcasing the history of Italian opera through a collection of costumes, instruments, and memorabilia.
- Duomo: A massive cathedral located in the heart of Milan, known for its intricate Gothic architecture and impressive collection of artwork and sculptures.
- Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie: A church best known for housing Leonardo da Vinci's famous mural painting The Last Supper.
- Leonardo Da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology: A museum dedicated to the life and works of Leonardo da Vinci, showcasing his designs and inventions across various fields of science and technology.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sforza Castle Tickets
Are tickets for Sforza Castle available online?
Sforza Castle tickets can be easily purchased online.
Should I book my Sforza Castle tickets in advance?
Since Sforza Castle is a popular attraction, we recommend booking your tickets in advance to avoid the inconvenience of tickets selling out.
What is Sforza Castle?
Sforza Castle is a historic fortress and museum complex located in Milan, Italy. It was built in the 15th century and now houses several museums and collections.
What are the opening hours of Sforza Castle?
Sforza Castle is open from 7 AM to 7:30 PM, while the museums are open from 10 AM to 5:30 PM from Tuesday to Sunday.
When is the Sforza Castle closed?
Sforza Castle is closed on Mondays, 25 December, 1 January, and 1 May.
Is there a dress code to visit Sforza Castle?
There is no dress code for visiting the Sforza Castle.
How long does the Sforza Castle take?
It’ll take you around 1 to 2 hours to explore Sforza Castle.
Are guided tours of Sforza Castle available?
Yes, there are self-guided tours of the Sforza Castle available online.
What are some of the museums inside the Sforza Castle?
Some popular museums inside Sforza Castle include the Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of Musical Instruments, and the Museum of the Rondanini Pietà.
Is photography allowed at the Sforza Castle?
Photography is allowed inside the castle and museums, but using a flash or tripod may be prohibited in some areas.
Can I carry water and snacks to the Sforza Castle?
Yes, you can carry snacks and water while visiting the Sforza Castle.