Santa Maria delle Grazie
Home to Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper,' this Renaissance church is a Milanese treasure, blending art, history, and spirituality.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Santa Maria delle Grazie
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper,' this Renaissance church is a Milanese treasure, blending art, history, and spirituality.
"A must-see masterpiece, but book tickets months in advance!"
🎯 Book 'The Last Supper' Early
Tickets vanish months in advance! Book online via the official site to secure your spot.
🧥 Dress Code for Church
Cover shoulders and knees. It's a sacred place, so dress respectfully.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Last Supper
Refectory
Leonardo da Vinci's iconic fresco, a breathtaking depiction of Jesus' final meal with his apostles.
Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie
Main Church
A stunning Renaissance church with a beautiful dome and intricate architectural details.
Cloisters
Convent Courtyards
Peaceful courtyards offering a serene escape and a glimpse into the convent's history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book The Last Supper Tickets Far in Advance
Respect the Sacred Space
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book 'The Last Supper' Early
Tickets vanish months in advance! Book online via the official site to secure your spot.
🧥 Dress Code for Church
Cover shoulders and knees. It's a sacred place, so dress respectfully.
🚫 No Photography Inside
Strictly no photos allowed of 'The Last Supper'. Be mindful of signs.
⏳ Arrive on Time
Entry is timed for 'The Last Supper'. Arrive a bit early to find the entrance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book 'The Last Supper' Early
Tickets vanish months in advance! Book online via the official site to secure your spot.
🧥 Dress Code for Church
Cover shoulders and knees. It's a sacred place, so dress respectfully.
🚫 No Photography Inside
Strictly no photos allowed of 'The Last Supper'. Be mindful of signs.
⏳ Arrive on Time
Entry is timed for 'The Last Supper'. Arrive a bit early to find the entrance.
🚶♀️ Explore the Basilica
Don't just see the fresco; admire the beautiful Renaissance architecture of the church itself.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Santa Maria delle Grazie is overwhelmingly praised for housing Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper,' a truly awe-inspiring masterpiece. Visitors consistently highlight the profound impact of seeing the fresco, though many lament the extremely limited viewing time and the difficulty in securing tickets. The Basilica itself is also appreciated for its Renaissance architecture and spiritual ambiance.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Santa Maria delle Grazie is easily accessible by public transport. Take tram lines 18 or 24, or bus lines 50 or 94 to the 'Santa Maria delle Grazie' stop. The closest metro stations are Conciliazione (Line M1) and Cadorna (Lines M1 & M2), both a short walk away.
Parking in Milan can be challenging and expensive. While there might be some street parking, it's often limited. It's recommended to use public transport or a taxi to reach the church.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk of about 20-25 minutes from the Duomo through the city center. It's a great way to see more of Milan.
The most convenient way is via Milan's public transportation system (trams, buses, or metro). This avoids the hassle of parking and traffic.
Information on wheelchair accessibility can vary. It's best to check the official website or contact the venue directly for the most up-to-date details regarding access for visitors with disabilities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for 'The Last Supper' must be purchased in advance, ideally months ahead, through the official ticketing website. Avoid third-party sellers as they may overcharge or sell invalid tickets.
The Basilica is generally open daily, but specific hours can vary. 'The Last Supper' viewing has strict timed entry slots. Always check the official website for the most current opening hours and viewing times.
Ticket prices can vary, but expect to pay around €15-€20 for standard admission. Guided tours may cost more. Check the official ticketing site for exact pricing.
It is highly unlikely to get tickets for 'The Last Supper' on the same day. They sell out extremely quickly, often months in advance. Booking ahead is essential.
A ticket for 'The Last Supper' typically includes access to the refectory to view the fresco and sometimes access to the church itself. Guided tours may offer additional insights.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Your viewing time for 'The Last Supper' is strictly limited to about 15 minutes to manage crowds and preserve the artwork.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended for 'The Last Supper' and the Basilica. They offer valuable historical context and art historical insights.
As it is a functioning church, visitors are expected to dress modestly. This means covering shoulders and knees.
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the refectory where 'The Last Supper' is located. You may be able to take photos in other parts of the Basilica, but always check for signage.
The Basilica itself is a Renaissance architectural gem, designed in part by Bramante. Explore its beautiful dome, cloisters, and chapels.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around Santa Maria delle Grazie has many restaurants, cafes, and trattorias offering a range of Italian cuisine. You can find options for quick bites or more leisurely meals.
No, eating or drinking is not permitted inside the church or the refectory where 'The Last Supper' is displayed. There are designated areas outside or nearby cafes for refreshments.
You'll find traditional Milanese dishes like Risotto alla Milanese and Cotoletta alla Milanese, as well as classic Italian pasta and pizza.
Look for 'trattorias' or 'pizzerias' slightly off the main tourist paths for more affordable meals. Many cafes also offer panini and pastries.
For popular restaurants, especially during peak tourist season, booking a table in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely not. Photography, including with mobile phones, is strictly forbidden inside the refectory to protect Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece.
The exterior of the Basilica, especially the dome and facade, offers great photo opportunities. The cloisters can also provide beautiful architectural shots.
Late afternoon light can be beautiful for photographing the exterior, casting a warm glow on the Renaissance architecture.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for exterior shots. Since no photos are allowed inside, you don't need specialized equipment for the artwork itself.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and around historical sites in Milan. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a family-friendly guided tour that can make the art and history more engaging for younger audiences. The Basilica's architecture and cloisters might offer more space for children to explore and appreciate. Pack snacks and drinks for before or after your visit, as these are not allowed inside.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & History Buffs
Opt for a guided tour that delves into art historical analysis and the fresco's restoration. Take time to study Bramante's architectural contributions to the Basilica and its significance in Renaissance design. Reading up on the various theories and controversies surrounding the fresco beforehand can also enhance the experience.
⛪ Religious Visitors
The church offers a peaceful environment for prayer and contemplation. Understanding the religious history and the lives of saints associated with the site can add a profound dimension to your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper'
The fresco's condition has been a major concern due to Da Vinci's experimental technique, using tempera on dry plaster instead of true fresco. This led to rapid deterioration over the centuries, necessitating numerous restorations. The most recent and extensive restoration was completed in 1999, revealing more of Da Vinci's original work and colors. Despite its fragility, 'The Last Supper' remains a profound testament to Leonardo's genius and a cornerstone of Renaissance art.
Visiting 'The Last Supper' requires meticulous planning. Tickets are extremely limited and must be booked months in advance through the official website. Visitors are allowed only a brief 15-minute window to view the fresco, emphasizing its preciousness and the need for preservation. The experience, though short, is deeply impactful, offering a rare opportunity to stand before one of humanity's greatest artistic achievements.
The Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie
The church itself is a place of worship and historical importance, with several chapels and a serene atmosphere. It also holds a connection to Saint Padre Pio, who celebrated his last Mass here in 1968. Visitors can explore the basilica's nave, aisles, and cloisters, appreciating the architectural grandeur and the spiritual ambiance. The contrast between the solemnity of the church and the dramatic intensity of 'The Last Supper' offers a layered experience for visitors.
While 'The Last Supper' draws the majority of visitors, the Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie deserves its own appreciation. Its architectural beauty, historical significance, and spiritual resonance make it a worthwhile destination in its own right. It serves as a beautiful setting for Leonardo's work and stands as a testament to the artistic and religious heritage of Milan.
Visiting Tips from Travelers
When visiting, remember that Santa Maria delle Grazie is an active church. Adhering to the dress code (covering shoulders and knees) is crucial for entry into the church and the refectory. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the refectory, and visitors are reminded of this rule upon entry.
Beyond the fresco, many recommend taking time to appreciate the Basilica's architecture and cloisters. Some also suggest looking into guided tours, as they provide deeper context and a more enriching experience of both the artwork and the building.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit