Milan: Leonardo da Vinci Galleries Guided Tour+Museum Ticket

When it comes to combining art, science, and history in a single stop, the Leonardo da Vinci Galleries guided tour at Milan’s National Museum of Science and Technology truly shines. Though this review is based on visitor feedback and the tour’s details rather than a personal experience, it offers a clear picture of what makes this visit a worthwhile addition to your Milan itinerary.

What we love about this experience is the expert-guided storytelling, the ability to see the largest Leonardo exhibition in the world, and the value for the price, which includes a full museum ticket at just $23. One thing to keep in mind: the tour isn’t recommended for children under 9, so families with young kids might want to plan differently.

If you’re a history buff, art lover, or science enthusiast eager to understand Leonardo’s genius beyond his paintings, this tour is tailored for you. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate guided insight to make their visit more meaningful and engaging.

Key Points

• Largest Leonardo da Vinci Exhibition: Over 170 models, artworks, and drawings tell his story.
• Expert-guided tour: Learn from knowledgeable guides who bring Leonardo’s innovations to life.
• Inclusive museum entry: Free access to the entire Science and Technology Museum enhances overall value.
• Rich historical context: The tour traces Leonardo’s development from Florence to Milan.
• Interactive exhibits: Digital installations and immersive displays make learning engaging.
• Ideal for curious travelers: Not suited for children under 9 but perfect for adults and teens interested in science, art, and history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Entrance and Meeting Point

The journey begins at the entrance at Via San Vittore 21, where you exchange your voucher for your ticket at the Museum’s ticket office. The guided tour kicks off in the first cloister, a charming historic setting that immediately transports you into the Renaissance atmosphere. The tour’s group size tends to be manageable, allowing for more personalized attention from guides.

The Guided Tour of Leonardo Galleries

The heart of the experience is the exploration of more than 1,300 square meters dedicated to Leonardo’s work. Your guide will walk you through a chronological narrative, starting from his formative years in Florence and tracing influences from Tuscan engineers, culminating in his Milan period under the Sforza family.

What truly elevates this tour are the over 170 historical models and artworks. These include engineering models, artistic works, and antique volumes, each carefully curated to highlight Leonardo’s wide-ranging talents. Visitors have pointed out that guides like Giorgia and Michele are knowledgeable and passionate, making complex topics accessible and entertaining. Sara, one reviewer, mentioned how her guide’s enthusiasm helped her discover nuances she might have missed otherwise.

Exhibits and Highlights

The exhibition features Leonardo’s studies on flight, waterways, architecture, and innovations in war machinery. You can see detailed models of his flying machines, waterwork innovations, and military devices, along with a stunning collection of drawings displayed through interactive and immersive setups. One reviewer noted a “spectacular setting” which made the experience even more memorable.

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Extra Museum Exploration

Your ticket also grants free access to the entire National Museum of Science and Technology. This opens up a world of exhibits beyond Leonardo—steam trains, submarines, space launchers, and even Italy’s only fragment of lunar rock. The museum’s vast size (50,000 square meters) offers ample space for exploration, making this a full-day activity if you wish.

The Benefits of Guided Tours

Many visitors appreciated the knowledge and passion of their guides. Sara praised her guide’s ability to explain details clearly and share fun stories, making the visit lively. Martina called her guide Giorgia perfect, and Alessandro noted how her passionate explanations made the experience truly enjoyable.

Visiting Practicalities and Tips

• The price of $23 per person is quite reasonable, especially considering the full museum entry.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 9, so families should plan accordingly.
• The tour lasts approximately the duration of your museum visit, but the entire museum can take longer if you decide to explore further.
• Be aware of museum rules: pets aren’t allowed (assistants dogs are fine), flash photography, and tripods are prohibited.
• The museum can be tricky to navigate after the guided portion, as some visitors have noted getting lost or wandering through the exhibits without guidance. Keep track of your group!

Accessibility & Operating Details

The tour is offered in Italian, so non-Italian speakers may want to verify guide language options if available. Booking is flexible—you can reserve and pay later, and cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely—if you’re interested in Leonardo da Vinci’s life, inventions, or want an engaging way to see Milan’s premier science museum. The combination of a guided tour with free museum access means you get a well-rounded experience for a modest price. Reviews highlight the expert guides, stunning exhibits, and interactive displays as key highlights.

While the museum’s size can be overwhelming and the navigation a bit confusing post-tour, the expert insights and the quality of exhibits make this a worthwhile visit. It’s especially good for those who love a good story, appreciate detailed models, and want to deepen their understanding of Leonardo’s genius.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, art lovers, science fans, and curious travelers looking for a comprehensive, guided introduction to Leonardo da Vinci’s work. It’s a fantastic pick for adults and teenagers interested in engaging, educational experiences. Families with very young children might want to consider other options, as under-9s aren’t recommended.

If you’re seeking a deeper dive into Leonardo’s engineering marvels or just want to enjoy a guided tour that makes the exhibits come alive, this experience offers excellent value and genuine insight.

FAQ

How do I get my ticket for the tour?
You exchange your voucher at the museum’s ticket office at Via San Vittore 21 to receive your entrance ticket, which includes the guided tour of Leonardo’s galleries.

What’s included in the tour?
The guided tour of the Leonardo Galleries plus entry to the entire Museum of Science and Technology, giving you access to dozens of other exhibits.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 9, but teenagers and adults will likely find it fascinating.

How long does the tour last?
The tour itself aligns with your museum visit; however, the entire museum may take several hours if you wish to explore on your own afterward.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are guides available in languages other than Italian?
The tour is primarily in Italian, so check if other language options are available when booking.

This guided tour of Leonardo da Vinci’s galleries at Milan’s Science & Technology Museum offers an enriching, engaging peek into one of history’s most brilliant minds—all at a very accessible price. Whether you’re a dedicated Leonardo fan or just curious about science and art, it’s a trip worth making.

You can check availability for your dates here: