Museums, Architecture, Sightseeing

Orto Botanico di Brera: The Botanical Garden of Milan – Practical Information

Posted on by Anna
Ogród botaniczny Orto Botanico di Brera w Mediolanie, pełen unikalnych roślin i spokojnych alejek
25
Mar

Botanical Garden – a green oasis of calm in the heart of Milan

The Brera Botanical Garden, located in the bustling heart of Milan, offers a pleasant break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Hidden behind the Palazzo Brera at Via Brera 28, this enchanting garden is under the care of the Institute of Applied Physics of the University of Milan.

Part of the sprawling Palazzo di Brera complex, the garden is home to a diverse collection of more than 3,000 plant species. This rich diversity not only enhances its beauty and tranquility but also makes it a key center for botanical research and education.

The Brera Botanical Garden’s historical roots date back to the 14th century, originally associated with the Humiliati Brotherhood, known for its humility. This deep historical connection enriches the garden with a cultural and historical layer, making it an intriguing place for both plant lovers and those who want to learn about Milan’s historical evolution.

Popular plants at Orto Botanico di Brera

The Brera Botanical Garden is famous for its diverse collection of plant species, which includes both native and exotic flora. Among the most well-known plants in the garden are:

  • Ginkgo biloba: One of the oldest ginkgo trees in Europe is the highlight of the garden, representing a living fossil that has existed for millions of years.
  • Firmiana platanifolia: This rare variety, also known as the Chinese umbrella tree, is prized for its large, distinctive leaves and architectural presence.
  • Black Walnut: This tree is prized not only for its nuts but also for its dark, durable wood.
  • Caucasian wingnut: This tree is distinguished by its large size and spreading crown.
  • Lime: This genus includes lime trees, which are loved for their fragrant flowers and attractive leaves.

In addition to these mature specimens, the garden has about 1,000 species of herbaceous and shrubby plants along with century-old trees, offering a rich mosaic of biodiversity on its half-acre site. The Brera Botanical Garden serves as a living museum dedicated to the preservation of biodiversity and rare species, providing a valuable resource for both education and entertainment.

Opening hours

The opening hours of the Brera Botanical Garden vary depending on the season:

  • From April 1 to October 31, the garden is open to visitors from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday through Saturday.
  • From November 1 to March 31, opening hours are 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, also Monday through Saturday.

It is worth remembering that the garden is closed on some holidays, so it is advisable to check any exceptional closures before planning a visit.

How to get to the Botanical Garden

To reach Orto Botanico di Brera by public transportation, you have several options:

  • Metro: To get near the Orto Botanico di Brera, you can take the subway. The nearest metro stations are Lanza (line M2, green line) and Montenapoleone (line M3, yellow line).
  • Tram: Tram lines serving the area are 1, 4, 8, 12, 14 and 27. These can be convenient options depending on the initial location.
  • Bus: Bus lines 61 and 97 also pass near the Orto Botanico di Brera. Buses can offer a direct route from different parts of the city.
  • On foot or by bicycle: If you live in or near the city center, walking or biking can be pleasant ways to reach the garden, especially since it is located in the picturesque Brera district, known for its charming streets and historic buildings.

Keep in mind that the garden is located in a restricted traffic zone (ZTL – Zona a Traffico Limitato), so if you are considering driving, be aware of restrictions and parking availability.

Tickets

Admission to the Orto Botanico di Brera is free.

However, fees may apply for guided tours or special events in the garden, so it is advisable to check in advance if there are any costs associated with these additional offerings.

Anna Bujanowska


Anna

I lived in Milan for 18 years, and it was there that I came to know the city’s daily life best - not just its landmarks, but also its rhythm, its habits, and its less obvious sides. Today I live in Wrocław, but I still return to Milan regularly.