The History of Milan: Leonardo, the Sforza Castle, and the Codex Atlanticus in Milan - Leonardo_tour3.jpg
5.0

The History of Milan: Leonardo, the Sforza Castle, and the Codex Atlanticus

  • 2 hours
  • City Highlight Tours
  • Milan
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Your local for this experience

Experience hosted by Elisa

  • Private Tour
  • Carbon Neutral

Step into the world of Leonardo da Vinci on a tour that dives deep into his fascinating connection with Milan. This isn’t your typical history tour—it’s a journey focused on Leonardo’s legacy, including his time at the Sforza Castle and the creation of the Codex Atlanticus. Led by a passionate local history expert, you'll uncover stories and details about Milan’s Renaissance that can’t be found in any book, all through the lens of Leonardo’s genius.

Destination
Milan, Italy
Category
City Highlight Tours
Duration
2 hours
Transport mode
Walking tour
Available languages
English, Français, Italiano, Deutsch
Included
  • Private Guide
  • Entrance ticket Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie(the Last Supper) and Museums at Sforza Castle
  • All Withlocals Tours are Carbon Neutral
Excluded
  • Entrance tickets
  • Mondays the Museums within Sforza Castle are closed
  • Wednesdays the Bibliioteca Ambrosiana is closed

6 reasons to book this tour

  • Dive into the intriguing history of Leonardo da Vinci
  • Get to know more about Leonardo da Vinci in relation to the Sforza Castle
  • See the Atlantic Codex & hear about its historical relevance
  • Enjoy a tour by the side of a history expert
  • Can be 100% personalized to your wishes
  • All your questions answered by your local host

What you can expect

The History of Milan: Leonardo, the Sforza Castle, and the Codex Atlanticus in Milan - Leonardo_tour3.jpg

To truly understand Milan, you must dive into its rich history, and there’s no better way than through the lens of Leonardo da Vinci. This captivating tour will take you on a journey through time, exploring the fascinating links between Leonardo, the iconic Sforza Castle, and the world-renowned Codex Atlanticus. Along the way, your local expert will share fascinating stories, hidden details, and insights that you won't find in a history book.

Milan’s Sforza Castle is not just an impressive fortress—it’s deeply tied to Leonardo da Vinci’s time in the city. It was here that Leonardo worked as a court artist for the powerful Sforza family. You’ll hear how the Castle played a pivotal role in Milan's Renaissance and how Leonardo contributed to its architectural designs and frescoes, including his iconic Codex Atlanticus. As you explore the Castle, you'll learn how these connections shaped Milan’s cultural and political landscape.

In addition to the castle, you’ll also discover Milan’s historical gems, such as the Biblioteca Ambrosiana—home to the Codex Atlanticus—and other important landmarks tied to Leonardo’s legacy in Milan. Your host will bring these stories to life, guiding you through the intricate relationship between Leonardo and the city, and revealing how his art and inventions continue to influence Milan today.

Our expert local hosts are passionate storytellers, each with a deep knowledge of Milan's history, art, and Leonardo's legacy. Whether you're an art lover, history enthusiast, or simply curious about Milan's hidden treasures, your host will make this experience unique to you. They’re eager to share their personal anecdotes and special insights, and can easily tailor the tour to your interests—making the city truly your own!

Join your local host for a tour that’s more than just history—it's a journey through Milan’s soul, shaped by the genius of Leonardo da Vinci.

This is the plan

Check out the plan below to see what you'll get up to with your local host. Feel free to personalize this offer with the host of your choice.

  1. Meeting point

    Meet at At the entrance of Chocolat Milano - Milan to start your journey

  2. Itinerary

    This is what our experience could look like, but it’s not set in stone! Once you book, you can chat directly with your host to make small tweaks to suit your preferences.

  3. Leonardo, the Sforza Castle, and the Codex Atlanticus

    Your history tour in Milan will focus on Leonardo da Vinci. Learn the impacts, insights and hear stories related to this historic event from your knowledgeable host. Discover the city as you retrace history and go in-depth on the effects this part of history has on Milan
  4. Historical Highlights

    Check out main landmarks related to the theme of your history tour and connect their relevance through fantastic stories and facts from your expert local host
  5. Hidden Treasures

    During your tour, you’ll also uncover hidden gems that will show you a different perspective of history as you know it, something you can’t easily find in a history book!
  6. Storytelling Journey

    As you discover the historical side of Milan, you’ll be able to go back in time thanks to the amazing stories and storytelling skills of your local host. Feel free to ask any questions and feel as if you are relieving history in the present time
  7. Make it yours

    Want to tweak the itinerary? Book directly & chat afterwards with your host to adjust highlights, skip stops, or make small changes to fit your preferences.

    Book risk-free: Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund.

    Need something special? Personalize your experience for more time, alternative locations or a completely tailored plan.

Flexible cancellation policy

  • Feel confident booking

    Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund. Even up to 7 days before your experience, you’ll receive a refund, minus the service fee.

  • Change of plans?

    Reschedule your experience to a date and time that works best for you.

  • Loved by travelers worldwide

    Simple and flexible – your plans, your way.

Reviews from guests

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Heike🇩🇪 Germany
(About local )
2 August 2025
Elisa hat uns sehr sachkundig, freundlich und kompetent alles rund um den Dom und die Terrassen gezeigt und erklärt. Wir hatten 2 sehr informative und kurzweilige Stunden mir ihr. Tolle Domfühung
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Milton🇺🇸 United States
(About local )
19 July 2025
Omar led a very interesting and often funny tour - we saw a lot of things we would not have otherwise noticed and got a lot is history and fun stories about Milan!
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Alarik🇺🇸 United States
(About local )
27 June 2025
My son-in-law arranged for Omar to be our guide for what was my first trip to Italy and Milan, in particular. He was most informative and understanding as well. I learned and experienced so much while we toured Il Duomo. He helped me decide whether to climb to its top or not since I recently celebrated my 80th birthday. I am so happy I decided to go for it! It is a magnificent structure with a wonderful history.Over the Top with Omar
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Alarik🇺🇸 United States
(About local )
24 June 2025
First of all, the Duomo is fantastic, and well worth the visit. We booked two tours with Omar -- the Duomo and also the Highlights and Hidden Gems. Omar is from Milan and an experienced guide. He was wonderful, and really made the Duomo -- which is amazing -- come to life. He knows the city like the back of his hand and was able to show us some wonderful things and really give us a feeling for their history and how they were used. We had my wife and mother-in-law for the Duomo part of things, and he was careful to make sure that my mother-in-law was OK with all the climbing. Omar is warm and funny and knowledgeable. Highly recommended.Great tour with a true local
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Matt🇺🇸 United States
(About local )
21 June 2025
We had the best experience touring the Duomo with Omar. His knowledge, passion and enthusiasm for the history and building was first class. We thoroughly enjoyed all the information he was able to share. Highly recommend- one of the best tours we’ve ever taken. Omar was amazing!
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Jennifer L🇺🇸 United States
(About local )
14 June 2025
Omar provided my daughter and I with an outstanding personalized tour of the Duomo in Milano. He brought his personal experiences, knowledge, and insights into a tour of an absolutely stunning structure. I highly recommended private tours that allow you to skip the line. It’s saves your precious vacation time and takes the stress out of the process of visiting the Duomo. In addition a private tour with Omar will provide you with education on the Duomo from a unique perspective. Thus tour included visiting the terraces if the Duomo allowing one to physically walk on the roof of the Duomo, see a view of the city, and view these beautiful and magical terraces up close, a not to be missed opportunity. Jennifer LK (United States)Simply the Best
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Tracy🇺🇸 United States
(About local )
8 June 2025
Omar went above and beyond to ensure a great tour! He was friendly, professional, and funny, which made for a fun and engaging experience! I would 100% use Omar again for a tour in the future! The Best
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Ruth 🇺🇸 United States
(About local )
18 May 2025
We had the best time with Omar visiting the Duomo in Milan. He was professional, kind funny and so full of knowledge. His English was excellent and he was a pleasure to be around. He made me want to know more and more about the Duomo and Milan the city he loves. One of my favorite parts of our trip!Amazing Omar!
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Claudia
(About local )
7 May 2025
Wir waren eine Gruppe von 5 Personen. Elisa hat unsere Wünsche bei den Sehenswürdigkeiten toll berücksichtigt. Es war unterhaltsam und informativ. Wir haben einen deutschsprachigen Tourguide gebucht. Die Besichtigung auf deutsch durchzuführen, war für Elisa etwas schwierig. Letztendlich war es nicht ganz so beeinträchtigend, da wir auch die englische Sprache etwas verstehen. Elisa können wir gerne empfehlen. Nette und fundierte Stadtführerin
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Bettina
(About local )
2 April 2025
Elisa hat uns sehr fachkundig und engagiert den Mailänder Dom und das Domdach gezeigt. Absolut professionell, mit enormem Fachwissen, top vorbereitet! Danke ElisaGroßartige Zeit in Mailand mit Elisa
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Constantin🇨🇭 Switzerland
(About local )
23 December 2024
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Laura🇺🇸 United States
(About local )
24 November 2024
Elisa gave a master lass in all things Duomo and more, her knowledge and guidance was above and beyond interesting and educational. Thank you!History of Duomo and Milan, Excellent!
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Francesca🇦🇺 Australia
(About local )
25 October 2024
Omar is an exceptional guide, he has an extensive knowledge of Milan’s history. Omar delivers information in a passionate and captivating manner its like you travel through time as you discover the secrets and rich history of Milan. Milan at first glance does not seem as rich in history as other Italian cities and I felt enlightened and fully immersed with Omar’s tour. A wonderful, engaging and fun tour as Omar is such a positive and energetic person with a vast knowledge of Milan.Best guide ever!
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Mitchell🇺🇸 United States
(About local )
4 October 2024
My wife, daughter and I had a great visit with Omar as our guide. He is super friendly, knowledgable and warm. Also, he was punctual and spent an extra 30 minutes so that we could see all the key points of interest. Thanks!No better way to visit Il Duomo
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lc🇩🇪 Germany
(About local )
4 October 2024
Dank Elisa, hatten wir eine sehr schmackhafte und interessante Stadtführung. Sie hat uns die kulinarische Führung der normalen Menschen aus diversen Regionen Italiens gezeigt. Sehr empfehlenswert. Super Freundlich
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Ted🇨🇦 Canada
(About local )
4 October 2024
Omar was great. Was very knowledgeable about Milan’s history and spoke clearly with excellent English so that everyone understood clearly.
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Kathren🇺🇸 United States
(About local )
26 July 2024
My family of 5 only had one day in Milan and we asked Elisa to show us ‘everything’. She was very easy to contact before our tour and flexible during. We were all a bit jet lagged but she kept the tour moving and gave lots of great information. And even provided dinner recommendations as well as next day activity ideas. Thank you!One day in Milan
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Sara🇸🇪 Sweden
(About local )
22 July 2024
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Sarah🇺🇸 United States
(About local )
8 June 2024
We had such a great tour with Eliza. She was able to cater the tour to what we wanted to do and see, and she was so knowledgeable about the city, and especially Duomo history. I wish we were staying longer so that we could book more with her! Eliza was great!
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Sue🇦🇺 Australia
(About local )
26 May 2024
This was our first visit to an Italian city. Elisa met us at our hotel, which was great after a gruelling 30 hour flight arriving late the night before. She showed us how to navigate public transport, the main sights of Milan and gave us suggestions about where to eat and what to do during our stay. A very worthwhile 3 hours and value for money. Elisa was friendly and knowledgeable and made us feel very welcome. Would highly recommend. Best introduction to Milan
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Johanna
(About local )
24 May 2024
We had the most wonderful tour with Elisa! She is very nice and has a lot of knowledge about Milan, such things that you can't read about from the travel books. We had totally customized tour, which she came up just as we met her since I hadn't given her any onfo about what we had done already in Milan - I think is a truly a gift to make a plan on the spot spontaneously. During the tour Elisa had a microphone and we each had earpieces, which was nice, since we could walk in the streets at our own pace and could still hear her speech. Her english was very fluent and easy to keep up with, even though it isn't our mother tongue. She also gave as some tips on what to do on our stay in Milan - few of which we followed and also enjoyed during our stay. I would absolutely recommend this tour to anybody who wants to have a private tour, is a larger group or just want's to know something about Milan that isn't told in the tarvel books!Private walking tour in Milan
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roy🇺🇸 United States
(About local )
21 May 2024
Elisa was very knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and focused on creating a very informative tour for us. She was a delight to spend the day with. We will certainly request her for our next Milan tour. Excellent guide for Milan
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Kenneth🇺🇸 United States
(About local )
12 May 2024
Great tour by Elisa. Included lots of areas off the beaten path and & away from the tourist crowds. Very knowledgeable guide; also provided recommendations for other sights in MilanMilan City Tour
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Amalie🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates
(About local )
20 April 2024
Elisa was great. Friendly and helpful. She is very knowledgeable and I enjoyed the experience. Highly recommend her for Milan tours. Duomo visit and Lake como day trip.
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Norbert 🇨🇭 Switzerland
(About local )
1 April 2024
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Aaron
(About local )
26 March 2024
Omar did a great job of showing us the places where events happened while explaining the back stories. We gained a greater understanding of the science, art and history of this incredible city. Omar was great!! Thank you!!!History understood
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Yvonne
(About local )
23 March 2024
We had an absolutely great time with Omar, a very friendly and super knowledgeable guy. He took us to places where you might not go and explained a lot about the history of the city. He is such a lovely person, relaxed and great sense of humour. We highly recommend booking him as your tour guide, you will not get disappointed!Simply the best!
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Angi
(About local )
19 March 2024
Omar was an OUTSTANDING tour guide. He showed us so many amazing places. It was Fantastic!OUTSTANDING
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Adrienne🇨🇭 Switzerland
(About local )
3 March 2024
Elisa hat das toll gemacht, sehr gutes Wissen zu Geschichte, Kunst, Architektur und Politik. Viel Neues und Überraschendes über Mailand gelernt, gute Verwendung des IPad mit zusätzlichen Bildern; Virlrn Dank dafür!Tolle und ausführliche Stadtführung!
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Danaiet
(About local )
24 February 2024
We had the pleasure of having Omar as a tour guide. This was the best and simple way to learn about the city. He was able to meet us at a central location and our tour commenced. He was knowledgeable and easy going. He was also able to recommend things to do/where to eat for after our tour. Thank you Omar!Best and simple way to go
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Chaim🇺🇸 United States
(About local )
21 February 2024
Elisa was truly amazing. I was sure milan doesn't have much to show but Elisa kept on showing new places and galleries that were truly amazing. She even went over the time booked in order to show me some extras. Her explanation of the facts and history kept me wanting for more. If you ever want to explore milan you must take Elisa as your guide and you won't be disappointed! Best tour guide!!
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Harry
(About local )
31 January 2024
We read Omar’s reviews and noticed that all he had were 5 star reviews. Wondered if that was truly the case. YES Omar is a five star host. He knows everything including information you would never dream about knowing. We will definitely book him next time to take into some of the museums.2 Hour Evening2 Hour Evening Walking Tour
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Heather
(About local )
14 January 2024
We absolutely loved having Omar as a host. He was amazing with the children’s and educational for the adults. We couldn’t have had a better morning accommodating guide. Thanks Omar! You made the difference:)Super with the childrenSuper with the children
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Vicky
(About local )
21 December 2023
Omar was fabulous - He showed us the hot spots and some hidden gems, with a delightful locals-only surprise at the end. He was friendly and knowledgeable and we highly recommend him for your private tour.Super friendly & knowledgeable
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Kathy
(About local )
10 December 2023
Omar was a lot of fun and a very enthusiastic tour guide. He easily flexed his normal tour to meet our needs and took us to some very unique places. We really enjoyed our tour with Omar.Fun tourFun tour
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Laura
(About local )
4 December 2023
Omar is an amazing guide. The breath of knowledge he was able to share was simply uncanny. Our vacation was blessed by Omar and our tour experience. We will recommend to everyone. Thank you Omar!.
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Arthur
(About local )
30 November 2023
Very Knowledgeable, personable. Great grasp of history. Very flexible. Really adjusted his schedule to meet our needs. Highly Recommend!Very Knowledgeable, personable
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Hannes🇮🇹 Italy
(About local )
31 October 2023
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Unknown
(About local )
29 October 2023
We enjoyed a wonderful morning walking with Elisa getting to know the old centre of Milan. Elisa was easily contactable leading up to our tour and happily adapted the itinerary to suit our interests. Milan is an interesting city and having a guide walking with you is a great way to understand it better, especially in historical terms. Having Elisa walking with you is like exploring a new city with a new friend. We highly recommend her as a guide. A wonderful introduction to Milan
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Marie-Christine🇨🇭 Switzerland
(About local )
4 October 2023
Es war eine interessante und vergnügliche Führung zu Fuss durch die Stadt! Kann es sehr empfehlen, auch mit Kinder!Interessante Führung
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Birgit 🇩🇪 Germany
(About local )
3 August 2023
Wir liefen mit Elisa 3 Stunden durch Mailand, die Zeit verging wie im Fluge, sie zeigte uns das Schloss, interessante Gebäude, besondere Kirchen, tolle Cafés und Restaurants. Alles war sehr authentisch, da Elisa eine waschechte Mailänder Reiseführerin ist. Es hat uns prima gefallen.Ausgezeichnete Führung
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Thomas🇩🇪 Germany
(About local )
17 July 2023
Wir hatten drei wunderbare, vor allem interessante Stunden mit Elisa. Für unseren dreitägigen Aufenthalt in Mailand eine Runde Sache. Grazie a ti!Ich vergebe fast nie ne Zehn
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Aldo🇩🇪 Germany
(About local )
29 June 2023
Die Privatführung mit Elisa hat uns sehr gefallen. Sie konnte uns manches interessante Detail über den Dom und die Stadt Mailand näher bringen. Mille grazie. AldoPrivatführung mit Elisa
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Dexter🇵🇭 Philippines
(About local )
17 May 2023
Elisa was energetic and enthusiastic giving the history and details of the Duomo and Milan during our 90 minute tour of Milan Duomo and its terraces. A fun time with her. enjoy!!!An enjoyable afternoon with Elisa
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Sieglinde🇦🇹 Austria
(About local )
17 May 2023
Elisa hat uns mit Charme die Highlights der Mailänder Innenstadt erläutert und wir haben in den 1,5h viel Interessantes im Zuge des Stadtspaziergangs erfahren. Danke nochmals, auch für die Restaurantempfehlung! Wir können Elisa nur empfehlen. Sieglinde und Manfred Sehr informative 90-minütige Stadtführung
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Unknown
(About local )
26 April 2023
Elisa was really friendly & super knowledgeable about Milan. She had a great personality & sense of humour. It was a well-paced tour & she was very tolerant of our 2 children (14 & 11). Elisa had a route mapped out but was also open to suggestions from us as we went along. She also offered us lots of fantastic ideas for restaurants, shopping & sightseeing for us to do later. Her English is excellent. We'd highly recommend Elisa if you're keen to see Milan on foot with an experienced guide. Fantastic walking experience
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Kerry
(About local )
16 March 2023
We are grateful to Elisa for providing a brilliantly concise orientation to the sights and culture of Milan. In the brief time we had, she was able to show us the highlights, and inspire further explorations on our own. She also provided us with outstanding restaurant recommendations, for which we are especially grateful. Her knowledge of and passion for Milan is impressive; we recommend her highly. Essential Milan
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אלנה🇮🇱 Israel
(About local )
12 February 2023
I CHOSE THIS TOUR SINCE WE WANTED ONLY 2 HOURS AND A LOCAL PERSON IS ALWAYS BETTER FOR LOCAL RESTAURANTS AND FOOD. ELISA WAS PERFECTLY PREPARED AND CHOSE THE GREATEST PLACES TO TASTE FROM. SHE IS ALSO A TOUR GUIDE SO WE GOT AN EXPLANATION ABOUT HISTORICAL THINGS ALSO. SHE CONTINUES FOR AN ADDITIONAL HOUR WITH US AND WAS EXTREEMLY NICE. AND OF COURSE THE FOOD AND ALL THE PLACES WERE AMAZING. I WILL DEFINETELY TOUR WITH HER AGAINAMAZING FOOD TOUR WITH ELISA
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Martin🇮🇱 Israel
(About local )
24 January 2023
A lovely tour, outstanding experience, full of information and experience, Very funny and nice Great Milan experience
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Heike🇩🇪 Germany
(About local )
27 November 2022
Elisa war ein sehr sympathischer und auch kompetenter Tourguide. Es war so interessant ihr zuzuhören, sie hatte auch Anschauungsmaterial dabei und Elisa zeigte uns viele tolle Plätze, die wir allein nicht entdeckt hätten. Ganz zu schweigen von den vielen Tipps für Restaurants, Bars und Einkaufsmöglichkeiten. Elisa ging ganz flexibel auf unsere Wünsche ein und wir hatten einen richtig tollen und Interessenten Nachmittag im Navigli Viertel. Dass sie dabei hin und wieder von Deutsch ins Englisch switchte, machte uns gar nichts aus. Danke, Elisa, für die interessante Führung und dieses schöne Erlebnis in MailandTolle Führung im Navigli Viertel

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Private & personalizedNo strangers, just you. Fully customize your trip to your needs.
With a local expertFrom historical facts to the most up-to-date health regulations.
Without the crowdsExperiences designed to take you away from the crowds towards authentic local spots.

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