Open Tour Milan Bus Tours

Open Tour Milan Hop-on Hop-off tours

Milan is a vibrant city known for its fashion, art, and historical landmarks. Open Tour Milan's hop-on hop-off bus tours provide an excellent opportunity to discover the city’s iconic landmarks like the magnificent Duomo di Milano, the world-renowned Teatro alla Scala, and the historic Castello Sforzesco. This flexible transportation option allows travelers to explore these key attractions at their own pace, making it an enjoyable way to experience the best of Milan.

Why choose Open Tour Milan tours

Comprehensive sightseeing

From Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper to the grandeur of the Duomo and the historical significance of Castello Sforzesco, Milan's cultural treasures are vast. Open Tour Milan's routes are designed to ensure you don't miss key sites and the panoramic skyline, providing a curated overview of the city's ancient and modern splendor.

Added perks

Tickets often include perks like free digital walking tours, special audio guides for kids, free Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, snacks on-board, live bus tracking, and discounts at the 12Oz coffee shop, all of which enhance your overall sightseeing experience.

Convenient transportation

Milan's attractions are spread out, and getting from one point to the other can be time-consuming. Open Tour Milan's tours efficiently connect these diverse locations, saving you the hassle of navigating Milan's often busy public transport, especially during peak fashion weeks. It is also helpful when trying to navigate a city that contains both cobblestone streets, and modern walkways.

Informative audio commentary

Beyond basic facts, the multilingual commentary delves into the stories behind Milan's fashion history, the tales of the Sforza family, the architectural marvels of the city, and more. This enhances your appreciation of Milan's unique blend of historical significance and modern innovation.

Open Tour Milan routes & stops

Fashion, Design & Leisure Line - Red Line

This route is designed to immerse visitors in the city's most iconic landmarks and cultural treasures. Key pit stops include the Duomo, Teatro alla Scala, Santa Maria delle Grazie, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and the Pinacoteca di Brera. Ideal for first-time visitors, history and art enthusiasts, those who appreciate classical architecture, and prefer staying around the historic Centre.

Overview:

First stop: Piazza Duomo

Timings: 10am to 5:30pm

Frequency: Every 20 to 30 minutes

Number of stops: 10 stops

Full loop duration: 2 hours

Milan Highlights Line - Blue Line

This route expands beyond the historical center, showcasing Milan's contemporary side and its diverse neighborhoods. San Siro Stadium, Navigli District, Porta Nuova District, Monumental Cemetery, and the Acquario Civico are major attractions along this route. Ideal for sports fans, those seeking a relaxed sightseeing pace, and those interested in exploring local areas and contemporary architecture.

Overview:

First stop: Piazza Duomo

Timings: 10am to 5:30pm

Frequency: Every 20 to 30 minutes

Number of stops: 28 stops

Full loop duration: 2 hours

Suggested Open Tour Milan itineraries

Milan in 1 day/24 hours
Milan in 2 days/48 hours
Milan in 3 days/72 hours

Fashion, Design & Leisure Line - Red Line

If you have just one day in Milan, choose the Fashion, Design & Leisure Line (Red Line) of the Open Tour Milan tours to explore the city's historical heart, with a modern twist.

  • Start at the Duomo and spend focused time admiring its interiors.
  • Quickly walk through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, capturing its grandeur.
  • Walk a short distance to Teatro alla Scala, and take pictures from the outside.
  • Grab a quick and delicious lunch near La Scala or the Galleria.
  • Head to Castello Sforzesco. Explore the castle courtyards or visit one of the museums inside.
  • Return to the Duomo area and ascend to the terraces for sunset views. (requires advance booking)
  • Enjoy a traditional Milanese dinner near the Duomo.

Day 1: Fashion, Design & Leisure Line - Red Line

If you have two days in Milan, choose the Fashion, Design & Leisure Line (Red Line) of the Open Tour Milan tours on Day 1 to explore the city's historical heart, with a modern twist.

  • Start at the Duomo and spend focused time admiring its interiors.
  • Quickly walk through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, capturing its grandeur.
  • Walk a short distance to Teatro alla Scala, and take pictures from the outside.
  • Grab a quick and delicious lunch near La Scala or the Galleria.
  • Head to Castello Sforzesco. Explore the castle courtyards or visit one of the museums inside.
  • Return to the Duomo area and ascend to the terraces for sunset views. (requires advance booking)
  • Enjoy a traditional Milanese dinner near the Duomo.

Day 2: Milan Highlights - Blue Line

If you have two days in Milan, choose the Milan Highlights Line (Blue Line) on Day 2 to explore more modern Milan and the charming Navigli district.

  • Start your day with the Blue Line and head to the Porta Nuova district.
  • Wander through Piazza Gae Aulenti, admire the Bosco Verticale, and appreciate the innovative designs.
  • Take a stroll through the modern shops that are located in the area and have lunch nearby.
  • Hop back on the Blue Line and head to the Cimitero Monumentale.
  • Then, head to the Navigli District and enjoy a walk along the canals. If you have time, explore the Vicolo dei Lavandai.
  • End your evening with aperitivo and dinner in the Navigli District.

Day 1

Explore Milan’s top attractions over 3 days by choosing Open Tour Milan’s Hop-on Hop-off tours. Focus on the city’s historical core with the Red Line, discover contemporary facets along the Blue Line, as well as hidden gems beyond the popular tourist sites.

  • Start at the Duomo and spend focused time admiring its interiors.
  • Quickly walk through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, capturing its grandeur.
  • Walk a short distance to Teatro alla Scala, and take pictures from the outside.
  • Grab a quick and delicious lunch near La Scala or the Galleria.
  • Head to Castello Sforzesco and explore the castle courtyards.
  • Return to the Duomo area and ascend to the terraces for sunset views. (requires advance booking)
  • Enjoy a traditional Milanese dinner near the Duomo.

Day 2

Explore Milan’s top attractions over 3 days by choosing Open Tour Milan’s Hop-on Hop-off tours. Focus on the city’s historical core with the Red Line, discover contemporary facets along the Blue Line, as well as hidden gems beyond the popular tourist sites.

  • Start your day with the Blue Line and head to the Porta Nuova district.
  • Wander through Piazza Gae Aulenti, admire the Bosco Verticale, and appreciate the innovative designs.
  • Take a stroll through the modern shops that are located in the area and have lunch nearby.
  • Hop back on the Blue Line and head to the Cimitero Monumentale.
  • Then, head to the Navigli District and enjoy a walk along the canals. If you have time, explore the Vicolo dei Lavandai.
  • End your evening with aperitivo and dinner in the Navigli District.

Day 3

Explore Milan’s top attractions over 3 days by choosing Open Tour Milan’s Hop-on Hop-off tours. Focus on the city’s historical core with the Red Line, discover contemporary facets along the Blue Line, as well as hidden gems beyond the popular tourist sites.

  • Start your day at San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore (the "Sistine Chapel of Milan").
  • Visit the Pinacoteca di Brera and enjoy lunch in the Brera district.
  • Stop by the Chiesa di San Satiro, to see the trompe-l'œil effect.
  • Explore the Quadrilatero della Moda, wandering through the streets and courtyards.
  • Consider a final shopping trip or evening stroll before a farewell Milanese dinner.

Alternatively, you can also take a day trip from Milan to Lake Como or Bellagio.

Open Tour Milan tips

  • Connect to the free Wi-Fi to research attractions, share photos, and stay connected.
  • Use the bus to cover longer distances and then explore smaller areas on foot.
  • Knowing a few basic Italian phrases can enhance your experience.
  • If you want to just ride the entire route and relax, consider doing this towards the end of the day.
  • Don't hesitate to ask the bus staff or locals for recommendations on restaurants, shops, and hidden gems like the Leonardo3 Museum.

Frequently asked questions about Open Tour Milan

How does the hop-on hop-off service work?

Buses run on designated routes with multiple stops. You can get on and off the bus as many times as you like.

What are the routes offered by Open Tour Milan?

Open Tour Milan typically offers two main routes: the Red Line (historical center) and the Blue Line (modern Milan and Navigli).

What is included in an Open Tour Milan ticket? And, what is the validity?

Tickets include hop-on hop-off access, a panoramic rooftop, and additional perks like free digital walking tours, live bus tracking, and discounts at the 12Oz coffee shop. Ticket options include the 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour packages to suit your interests.

How often do the buses run?

Buses run every 20 minutes during the high season and 30 minutes in the low season.

Is there audio commentary on the buses?

Yes, Open Tour Milan buses provide audio commentary in 11 languages, with special commentary for children in 3 languages.

Is Open Tour Milan accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, buses are equipped with accessibility features.

Are pets allowed on the bus?

Yes, Open Tour Milan’s hop-on hop-off tours are pet-friendly.