Bagatti Valsecchi Museum

About Bagatti Valsecchi Museum

Get to downtown Milan to discover one of Italy’s magnificent museums, which will take you back in time. Bagatti Valsecchi Museum is much more than a place that houses artifacts. It’s an in-house museum featuring Renaissance-style architecture. Delve into the history of the two famous brothers and their passion for Italian art at the Bagatti Valsecchi Museum. 

Each room is preserved just the way the brothers Fausto and Giuseppe willed. Inside the museum, you will find sculptures, clocks, paintings, armor, and many such collections by the brothers. The museum houses several paintings by reputable artists. You can find the remarkable work of Giovanni Bellini, Cassone, Portrait of a Gentleman, Ivory Carvings, and more. Before visiting, check out the details of the museum, the history, tickets, opening and closing hours, and some tips for your visit.

Fausto and Giuseppe turned their 19th-century mansion into this fascinating museum that boasts a collection of artwork, furniture, tapestries, and a lot of interesting art pieces. It has a Grand Salon, a room that previously served as the place for guests and gatherings. Today, it accommodates paintings and chandeliers. Then, there’s a library equipped with wooden bookshelves featuring a collection of diverse books from the medieval period. 

The palace also had a chapel where the Valsecchi family would gather to offer prayers. Walk to the bedroom to discover the linen, beds, and other personal stuff used by the two brothers. If you are an art and history lover, this museum should be at the top of your travel bucket list. It will give you a glimpse into the life of the two brothers and what was considered luxury in that era.

History of Bagatti Valsecchi Museum

Bagatti Valsecchi Museum was the property of Fausto and Giuseppe, who were lawyers by profession but had a great interest in art. They renovated their villa following the 19th-century Renaissance art, which was in fashion in Europe at that time. The brothers would collect art from the northern regions, including Venice and Lombardy, and bring collection in bulk. This included the original pieces and imitation, some of which they’d resell. 

In addition to collecting art, the brothers made sure that the mansion was a comfortable place to live. They installed all the modern amenities of their time, including electric lights and a shower. The highlight of the museum is the beautiful mix of modern art with historical objects. What’s surprising is that these brothers designed the house without the help of an outsider, an artist, or an architect. 

Tips for Your Visit to Bagatti Valsecchi Museum

Get the most out of your trip to this Renaissance-style museum with these tips.

• The museum remains open from Wednesday to Sunday. The opening hours are 1 PM to 8 PM on Wednesday and 1 PM to 5:45 PM on Thursday and Friday. On weekends, the museum opens at 10 AM and closes at 5:45 PM.
• Join Bagatti Valsecchi Museum guided tours to learn the detailed history of the two brothers. 
• Ask your guide about photography. If it’s permitted, follow the rules and use cameras only where it’s allowed.
• The museum’s opening hours may vary on certain days or occasions. Check the museum’s official website before planning a visit.
• You need at least an hour or two to explore the museum’s intricate details. It’s filled with decorative pieces and everyday items, such as locks and keys.
• Quadrilatero della Moda is a shopping street with high-end stores and luxurious brands located within walking distance of the museum. Check it out after you are done exploring the museum. 

Bagatti Valsecchi Museum tickets

The per-person ticket for an adult is around 15 euros, which is reduced to 12 euros for elders above 65. There’s free entry for children up to 5 years and a reduced fee of 5 euros for children between 6 and 17 years. The audioguide will cost a few extra euros. You can book your tickets in advance on the museum’s official website.

How to Arrive at Bagatti Valsecchi Museum

Located in the heart of Milan, reaching the museum won’t be a hassle. Here’s how you can get there.

By Metro: It’s a 5-minute walk from the Montenapoleone station. Take Line 3 to reach this station and cover the rest of the distance on foot.

By Tram: Lines 1 and 2 have a stop at Montenapoleone station. You can walk to the museum from here.

By Bus: Many buses stop at different stations from where the museum is only a short walk away. You can take Bus 61 and get off at the San Babila station. The museum is roughly a 10-minute walk away.

Taxi: Ask the taxi driver to drop you off at Via Gesù 5, Milan. The taxi will take you directly to the museum’s entrance gate.

Taxi or Ride-Sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services can take you directly to the base of Tibidabo, where you can then use the funicular or shuttle to reach the top.

Walking and Hiking: If you’re up for a scenic hike, you can trek up to Tibidabo from various starting points. Keep in mind that this option requires physical fitness and planning.