It might not be as famous as the Duomo or Leonardo’s Last Supper, but Milan’s Sforza Castle has more history and masterpieces than most travelers realize. What looks like a medieval fortress is actually one of Europe’s largest museum complexes, and trying to figure out how to see it all can feel like a second job. Luckily, you don’t have to. Here’s how to visit the Castello Sforzesco like a local.
Your quick answer: Book tickets or a tour in advance, focus on Michelangelo’s Pietà Rondanini and Leonardo’s Sala delle Asse, and set aside time to wander Parco Sempione.
You’re standing in front of a 15th-century fortress that once stumped invaders. Now it’s your turn to waltz in. With six museums tucked behind its walls, knowing where to go (and what to skip) is the key to unlocking Milan’s Renaissance secrets.
Here are the most important things you need to know about visiting Sforza Castle.
Sforza Castle Tickets & Hours
So, how much does it cost to see Sforza Castle? Here are the hours and prices.
Castle Grounds: Open daily from 7 am to 7:30 pm
Museums: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 am to 5:30 pm (last entry 5:00 pm)
Closed: Mondays, Jan 1, May 1, Dec 25
Prices:
Full Price: €5
Reduced Price: €3
Free: Under 18 and everyone on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays after 2:00 pm
Trying to see every museum: Pick 2–3 highlights, or you’ll burn out fast.
Visiting without a guide: You’ll miss the genius behind da Vinci’s Sala delle Asse and the details in Michelangelo’s Pietà.
Underestimating the walk: The grounds are massive, plan for time in the courtyards and Parco Sempione too.
Showing up Monday: The museums are closed—only the grounds are open.
Bringing large bags: You’ll be turned away or forced to pay for lockers.
Secret Tip For Visiting Sforza Castle
Admire Michelangelo’s Pietà from the side:
Most visitors stare straight at Michelangelo’s final sculpture, but you’ll see its full emotional weight if you move to the right side of the room. From this angle, Christ’s body slumps across Mary and the mystery figure like a cascade of unfinished stone.
Most guided castle-only tours last around 2 hours, while combo tours that include the Duomo or Last Supper are between 3 and 4 hours. If you’re going on your own, set aside at least 2 hours. Add another hour if you’re keen to climb the ramparts or linger in Parco Sempione.
Brera District: Artsy cafés and the Pinacoteca di Brera (Milan’s top painting gallery).
Frequently Asked Questions About Sforza Castle
Can you see Da Vinci’s work in Sforza Castle?
Yes! The Sala delle Asse features his only surviving fresco cycle in Milan—a trompe-l’oeil forest of mulberry trees.
Is photography allowed in Sforza Castle?
Yes, except with flash in the Pietà Rondanini museum.
When is the best time to visit Sforza Castle?
Weekday mornings before 10 am or in the afternoon after 4 pm.
Are there lockers in Sforza Castle?
Yes (for a small fee). Large bags aren’t permitted in museums.
Is the Sforza Castle Wheelchair accessible?
Courtyards and ramparts are accessible; some museums have elevators.
Final Thoughts
Sforza Castle is a deep dive into Milan’s rise, fall, and Renaissance revival. Book a tour, lock in your ticket, or time your free Tuesday slot, but do carve out time to wander its courts and climb its towers.
Milan is a small city with plenty to explore from iconic landmarks to a vibrant art and design scene and old-world charm. Plan where to stay in the best neighborhoods in this beautiful city.
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