Santa Maria delle Grazie
Home to Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper,' this Renaissance church and convent is an architectural marvel.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Santa Maria delle Grazie
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper,' this Renaissance church and convent is an architectural marvel.
"An intense and special experience, the church holds a profound spirit and hidden surprises."
🎯 Book 'Last Supper' Tickets Early
Tickets for 'The Last Supper' sell out months in advance. Book online via the official website to avoid disappointment .
🚶♀️ Explore the Cloisters
Don't miss the peaceful Chiostro delle Rane, a beautiful and often overlooked part of the complex .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Last Supper
Refectory
Leonardo da Vinci's iconic mural, a must-see masterpiece of Renaissance art.
Chiostro delle Rane (Cloister of the Frogs)
Cloisters
A tranquil courtyard featuring unique frog-shaped fountains, offering a peaceful escape.
Santa Maria delle Grazie Church
Main Church
An exquisite example of Renaissance architecture with a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book 'The Last Supper' Tickets Far in Advance
Explore Beyond the Famous Fresco
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book 'Last Supper' Tickets Early
Tickets for 'The Last Supper' sell out months in advance. Book online via the official website to avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Explore the Cloisters
Don't miss the peaceful Chiostro delle Rane, a beautiful and often overlooked part of the complex.
⏰ Arrive on Time for Your Slot
Entry to see 'The Last Supper' is strictly timed. Arrive a little early to navigate security and find your way.
🤫 Be Respectful
This is an active place of worship. Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor throughout your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book 'Last Supper' Tickets Early
Tickets for 'The Last Supper' sell out months in advance. Book online via the official website to avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Explore the Cloisters
Don't miss the peaceful Chiostro delle Rane, a beautiful and often overlooked part of the complex.
⏰ Arrive on Time for Your Slot
Entry to see 'The Last Supper' is strictly timed. Arrive a little early to navigate security and find your way.
🤫 Be Respectful
This is an active place of worship. Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor throughout your visit.
📸 Photography Restrictions
Photography is generally not allowed inside the refectory where 'The Last Supper' is displayed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are awestruck by Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper,' calling it an intense and special experience. The church and its cloisters are also praised for their beauty and spiritual atmosphere, offering hidden surprises beyond the famous fresco. However, the strict timed entry and the artwork's condition are noted points.
"Yeah not much to see here , though the church is old like 13th century"
Jerome G
"Very special church on the top"
Eric Berberich
"A lovely church with hidden surprises. If you explore the church you can really find the spirit in you. It was an intense experience on the upper floor. Jeezus is always watching."
Xaver König
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Santa Maria delle Grazie is easily accessible by public transport. Take the Metro to Conciliazione (Line M1) or Cadorna (Lines M1 & M2) and it's a short walk. Trams and buses also serve the area.
Street parking in Milan can be challenging and expensive. It's recommended to use public transport or a taxi. There are paid parking garages nearby if driving is necessary.
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 along the way.
For 'The Last Supper' viewings, public transport is highly recommended due to timed entry and potential traffic. Metro lines M1 and M2 to Cadorna are convenient options.
While the church and cloisters are generally accessible, the refectory where 'The Last Supper' is displayed may have limited accessibility. It's best to contact the venue directly for specific information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper' must be purchased online in advance, often months ahead, through the official website or authorized resellers.
The church of Santa Maria delle Grazie is generally open daily, but hours can vary. 'The Last Supper' viewing has strict, timed entry slots, typically from Tuesday to Sunday.
Ticket prices for 'The Last Supper' can vary slightly depending on the booking platform and any special exhibitions. Check the official website for the most current pricing.
It is highly unlikely to get tickets for 'The Last Supper' on the day of your visit. They are almost always sold out well in advance due to high demand.
Tickets for 'The Last Supper' typically grant you a timed entry to view the mural in the refectory. Access to the church and cloisters may be separate or included depending on the ticket type.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography and videography are strictly prohibited inside the refectory where 'The Last Supper' is displayed to preserve the artwork.
Photography is usually permitted in the church itself, but without flash. Always check for any posted signs or ask a staff member if unsure.
Yes, the exterior of the church and its cloisters offer beautiful architectural details and are great for photos.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light for exterior shots. The cloisters are also lovely when bathed in natural light.
Tripods are generally not allowed inside the church or refectory. Check specific regulations for exterior photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around Santa Maria delle Grazie has numerous cafes and restaurants offering traditional Milanese cuisine and international options.
No, eating or drinking is not permitted inside the church or the refectory to protect the artwork and maintain the sanctity of the space.
Explore the side streets for trattorias offering local specialties. Many cafes offer quick bites and coffee for a break.
Prices can vary. You can find budget-friendly options like pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) or more upscale dining experiences.
Milan has a growing number of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants. Look for establishments advertising these options.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for family-friendly restaurants in the surrounding area for meals. Many trattorias offer simple pasta dishes that appeal to children. The walk from the Duomo can also be an adventure, pointing out interesting sights along the way. Remember that photography is prohibited in the refectory, so encourage kids to absorb the art with their eyes and minds.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & History Buffs
Researching Leonardo da Vinci's life and his experimental approach to painting will enhance your appreciation of the mural's condition and its artistic innovations. The church itself is a testament to Renaissance ideals, and understanding its architectural evolution adds another layer to the visit. Allow ample time to explore the cloisters and absorb the atmosphere of this sacred space.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Look for affordable eateries in the side streets away from the main tourist paths. Many local bakeries and cafes offer delicious and budget-friendly options for breakfast or lunch. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to potentially find better deals on any optional tours.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Masterpiece: Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper'
Viewing 'The Last Supper' is a highly controlled experience. Visitors are admitted in small groups for a limited time (typically 15 minutes) to minimize environmental impact on the artwork. Booking tickets months in advance is absolutely essential, as demand far outstrips availability.
The timed entry system ensures a more intimate, albeit brief, encounter with this profound work of art, allowing you to truly absorb its emotional depth and compositional genius.Despite the challenges of its preservation, 'The Last Supper' remains one of the most revered and studied artworks in the world. Its psychological portrayal of the apostles and its masterful use of perspective continue to captivate art historians and visitors alike. The experience of standing before it is often described as deeply moving and unforgettable.
Architectural Splendor: Bramante's Influence
Bramante's work at Santa Maria delle Grazie is considered a pivotal point in Renaissance architecture, influencing many subsequent designs. The harmonious proportions and the elegant use of classical elements showcase his genius. The Chiostro delle Rane, or Cloister of the Frogs, is another notable feature attributed to Bramante's influence, named for the charming frog sculptures adorning its central fountain.
+1Visitors often remark on the serene beauty of the church and its cloisters, finding them to be a peaceful sanctuary away from the bustling city. The interplay of light and shadow within the architectural spaces, combined with the spiritual ambiance, creates a truly memorable experience that complements the artistic marvel of 'The Last Supper'.
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