Milan: Last Supper Guided Tour & Timed Entry Ticket

Summary

Da Vinci’s mural up close in Milan with stories and timed access

You’ll meet your guide outside Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan before getting timed entry to see Da Vinci’s Last Supper up close. Hear stories about Leonardo’s life and Milanese history as you wait, then spend 15 quiet minutes inside with the mural itself—no crowds or rush. It’s a rare chance to stand face-to-face with one of art’s most talked-about works.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I got nervous when our guide asked for our IDs right away outside Santa Maria delle Grazie. I’d read about how strict they are with the Last Supper tickets, but it still felt odd, like we were about to enter some secret club. Our group milled around under those old brick arches while Anna (our guide) checked names off her list, joking that even Leonardo would’ve needed his passport these days. Someone’s phone buzzed and echoed off the stone — weirdly loud for a church courtyard.

Once we got past the ID check, Anna started telling us about Milan back in Da Vinci’s time. She pointed out little things on the church façade I never would’ve noticed — faded carvings, chipped bricks. The air smelled like rain on dust and car exhaust, which sounds bad but somehow made everything feel more real. Anna had this way of weaving stories so you could almost picture monks shuffling by in sandals right where we stood. She explained why everyone only gets 15 minutes with the painting inside — something about humidity and paint layers — and honestly, I started feeling nervous again that I’d blink and miss it.

When they finally let us into the refectory, it was quiet except for someone’s shoes squeaking on the floor. There it was: The Last Supper, bigger than I expected and kind of faded at the edges but still… intense? It’s hard to describe without sounding dramatic. Anna whispered a few details — how Judas’ hand is reaching for bread, or how Leonardo used real people from Milan as models. We all just stood there in this weird hush; nobody tried to take selfies until the last minute (and even then, no flash). I kept thinking about how many eyes have stared at this wall over centuries. And then our 15 minutes were up, just like that.

Walking back out into the street after seeing Da Vinci’s Last Supper felt strange — like stepping out of a movie halfway through. I still think about those chipped bricks outside and Anna’s laugh when someone tried to say “Il Cenacolo” with an American accent (no judgment). If you’re even a little curious about art or history or just want to see something that actually lives up to its reputation, this day trip in Milan is worth every bit of bureaucracy at the start.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided tour of The Last Supper

• Meet guide at Santa Maria delle Grazie
• Complete ID check and preparation
• Overview outside the church
• Learn about Leonardo and Milan
• Visit and admire The Last Supper

Top questions

How long do you get to see The Last Supper?

Each visitor is allowed 15 minutes inside the refectory with Da Vinci's Last Supper.

Where does the tour of The Last Supper start?

The tour begins outside Santa Maria delle Grazie church in Milan.

Is an ID required for entry?

Yes, you must bring a valid ID matching your booking details for entry.

Are photos allowed inside?

You can take photos but flash photography is not permitted inside with The Last Supper.

Is this guided tour suitable for kids?

Yes, minors can join but must be accompanied by an adult during the visit.

What happens if I'm late for my Last Supper tour?

If you’re delayed and don’t notify ahead of time, your spot may be lost without refund.

Are large bags allowed during The Last Supper visit?

No, backpacks and large bags aren’t allowed; small lockers are available at the ticket office.

Does this tour run if it rains?

The tour runs rain or shine unless there are extreme weather events or unforeseen closures.

What’s included

Your day includes skip-the-line timed entry tickets for The Last Supper mural inside Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan plus a licensed local guide who shares stories before your visit; all logistics like ID checks are handled so you can focus on seeing Da Vinci's masterpiece up close without hassle.