Branca Tower (Torre Branca)
Viale Luigi Camoens 2, Milan, Lombardy, 20121
One of Milan’s highest and most unique scenic overlooks, the Torre Branca is a 300-foot-high (91-meter-high) steel tower designed by Gio Ponti in 1933 and set in the city’s Sempione Park. Take the elevator that whisks visitors to the observation deck at the top, and enjoy a bird’s-eye view over the city to the Alpine peaks on the horizon.
The Basics
Kids and adults alike enjoy the thrilling elevator ride that takes less than a minute to travel from ground level to the observation deck high above Sempione Park and the sweeping vista over the surrounding city rooftops. Located just behind Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco), next to the fashionable Brera neighborhood, Torre Branca is a fun stop on tours of either the castle or the nearby neighborhood. Be sure to book tickets in advance for this popular attraction, as the elevator can only fit five passengers at a time, so lines to go up can be long.
Things to Know Before You Go
If visiting Milan with kids, Torre Branca is a fun break from the city’s art and architecture.
The observation deck offers singular views over the city, so be sure to bring your camera.
Visitors can stay on the observation deck for around five minutes.
Guided English-language tours of the tower and observation deck are offered sporadically; check the tower website for schedules.
The elevator and observation deck are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
This is not a recommended stop for those who suffer from a fear of heights.
How to Get There
Torre Branca is located in Sempione Park, in Milan’s city center. Walk from Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano) and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, or take the metro to the Cadorna or Cairoli Castello stop, just outside the park.
When to Get There
The tower is open to the public on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday; visit on a clear day to take advantage of the spectacular views from the top.
Sempione Park (Parco Sempione)
One of Italy’s loveliest urban parks sits in the center of Milan: Sempione Park (Parco Sempione), covering 116 acres (47 hectares) of grounds crisscrossed with gravel paths, a lake, the triumphal Arch of Peace (Arco della Pace), the small Arena Civica, and the Torre Branca. The park is also home to Milan’s aquarium and the Triennale contemporary art and design museum in the Palazzo dell’Arte.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!