HOW TO GET TICKETS TO THE LAST SUPPER

The highlight of our time in Milan, Italy was our visit to the Santa Maria delle Grazie church to view Leonardo da Vinci's painting, The Last Supper. It was surreal to be within a few feet of the 500-year-old masterpiece, and it was truly an honor to observe this piece of history.

All visitors must have a ticket to view The Last Supper (Il Cenacolo in Italian), and nobody is kidding when they say a reservation is compulsory and to book far in advance of your trip. Only 25 people can view the painting at one time, for a maximum of 15 minutes, so tickets are limited and sell out quickly. If you want to see this painting, BOOK YOUR RESERVATION (please!) as soon as you know the date of your trip.

How can I make a reservation?

1) Try the official vendor, Viva Ticket, but don't be surprised if there is no availability on your desired date. This is the cheapest option, but tickets sell out fast. Sales open three months in advance.

2) Try Select Italy. Expect to pay a premium (i.e., double the cost of Viva).

3) Try Last Supper Tickets. This company supplies tickets for last minute admissions. Bookings open 3 days in advance. You'll pay a large booking fee.

4) Book a tour of Milan that includes a visit to the famous painting.

5) Ask your hotel to make a reservation? We read this somewhere, and it may or may not work.

When can I visit?

The Box Office is open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15 am to 7:00 pm (last admittance at 6:45 pm). It is closed every Monday and on select holidays (January 1, May 1, and December 25).

How do I get to the church?

On the subway, take the M1 (red line) to the Conciliazione or the Cadorna stop, or take the M2 (green line) to the Cadorna stop. The church is located in Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2, on Corso Magenta, which is a 5-10 minute walk from the metro stop, as shown in the map.

How do I get my ticket?

You must present your voucher or purchase receipt no later than 20 minutes before your reservation time at the box office (located to the left of the church entrance) to receive your official ticket. Failure to arrive before your scheduled admittance time will result in the loss of your reservation.

What else do I need to know?

1) Photography is not allowed in the refectory.

2) The wall opposite of The Last Supper is covered by a fresco by Giovanni Donato da Montorfano called the Crucifixion. It also deserves a quick look.

3) Do your own research on the history of the painting, its composition and the various restorations. You'll appreciate it that much more.

Helpful Reads:

Leonardo da Vinci - The Last Supper: Ten Common Questions About the Painting

*The Last Supper image taken from Leonardo da Vinci [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons