Pinacoteca di Brera
Milan, Italy · Museum
About Pinacoteca di Brera
The Pinacoteca di Brera is Milan's premier public art gallery, housed within a grand 17th-century neoclassical palace. It is globally renowned for holding one of Italy's finest collections of northern Italian and Renaissance masterpieces. Art lovers flock here to view landmark works by luminaries like Raphael, Caravaggio, Mantegna, and Bellini.
Don't miss
- Marvel at Raphael's magnificent High Renaissance composition, The Marriage of the Virgin.
- Examine Andrea Mantegna's dramatic foreshortening in the heart-wrenching Lamentation over the Dead Christ.
- Admire Caravaggio's mastery of light and shadow in his poignant Supper at Emmaus.
- View Francesco Hayez's The Kiss, a quintessential symbol of Italian Romanticism and unification.
- how_long
- 2-3 hours
Plan your visit
Visit on a weekday morning right around opening time to explore the rooms before tour groups arrive. Late afternoons are also relatively peaceful for enjoying the collection at a leisurely pace.
Admission is paid, and visitors are strongly encouraged to book timed entry tickets online in advance. Standard tickets generally include a BreraCARD, which allows for free return visits over a set period.
Take Metro Line 2 (Green) to Lanza or Line 3 (Yellow) to Montenapoleone. From either station, the gallery is an easy 5 to 10-minute walk through the picturesque streets of the Brera district.
Tips for visiting
- Save time to explore the lush Brera Botanical Garden tucked just behind the main palace courtyard.
- Don't miss the striking bronze statue of Napoleon sculpted by Antonio Canova in the central courtyard.
- Hold onto your BreraCARD account details to enjoy digital content and return access.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the gallery spans nearly 40 expansive exhibition rooms.
- Linger in the surrounding Brera neighborhood afterward to enjoy traditional trattorias and boutique shopping.
Pinacoteca di Brera FAQ
Can I take photos inside the gallery?
Yes, non-flash personal photography is permitted throughout the permanent collection rooms. However, the use of selfie sticks, flash, and tripods is strictly prohibited. Keep an eye out for specific signage in rooms housing temporary loan exhibitions.
Is the Pinacoteca di Brera accessible for wheelchair users?
The museum is fully wheelchair accessible with elevator access and ramps connecting all the main gallery spaces. Wheelchairs are also available to borrow on-site at the reception desk upon request. Staff members are stationed throughout the palace to assist visitors needing access accommodations.
Are large bags and luggage permitted inside?
Large bags, backpacks, and bulky umbrellas are not allowed inside the exhibition rooms. Free lockers and a cloakroom service are provided near the ticket office for storing small to medium belongings. Very large travel suitcases may not fit, so it is best to leave luggage at your hotel.
Is the botanical garden part of the museum ticket?
The historic Brera Botanical Garden is situated behind the palace and is actually free to visit. It is managed by the University of Milan and maintains its own schedule of operating hours. It makes for an enchanting and tranquil retreat before or after your gallery tour.
More things to do in Milan
Duomo di Milano Landmark
Marvel at Italy's largest Gothic cathedral and walk across the rooftop terraces for panoramic city views.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II Shopping
Stroll through Italy's oldest active shopping gallery, famed for its iron-and-glass dome and luxury boutiques.
Santa Maria delle Grazie Landmark
View Leonardo da Vinci's masterwork, The Last Supper, housed in the refectory of this historic convent.
Sforza Castle Museum
Explore this massive 15th-century fortress, home to various municipal museums and Michelangelo's unfinished final sculpture.
Navigli District Neighborhood
Walk along historic canals lined with artisan studios, bustling cafes, and lively aperitivo bars.
Teatro alla Scala Landmark
Visit one of the most famous opera houses in the world, renowned for its opulent auditorium and rich musical history.
Parco Sempione Nature
Relax in this sprawling English-style park located right behind Sforza Castle, perfect for an afternoon walk.
AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: dimitrisvetsikas1969 on Pixabay.