Parco Sempione (Simplon Park), Northwest Milan
Largest park in Milan with views of the city's landmarks
Parco Sempione, the largest park in Milan, with a total area of 47 hectares, is located just north of the city centre. It was established in the early 1800s to cater for Milan's French ruler's interest in hunting.
In 1893, Emilio Alemagna began landscaping the park in the then-popular style of the 'English Garden' to afford views to two nearby city landmarks the "Arco della Pace" (Arch of Peace) and the Sforzesco Castle.
It contains a mini-coliseum dating back to the Napoleonic period, which is today used for athletic events and the occasional outdoor concert. The Palazzo d'Arte is one of a handful of museums and galleries in the park which currently hosts the Triennale di Milano art expo. The Torre Branca, another feature of the park, provides panoramic views of the city.
The entire park is covered by a free wireless network, and inside there are cafes, bars, an area dedicated to dogs, a playground, basketball courts and public toilets.
When to come
The park opens at 06:30. From October to April it closes at 21:00, in May at 22:00 and from June to September at 23:30.
