Milan

Falling in Love with Milan: A Guide for the First-Time Visitor

Milan, the vibrant fashion capital of Italy, is a city brimming with history, art, culture, and delicious Italian cuisine. Whether you’re drawn to its iconic landmarks, designer boutiques, or artistic treasures, there’s something for everyone in this bustling metropolis.

Must-See Landmarks:

  • Duomo di Milano: This magnificent Gothic cathedral is a sight to behold, with its intricate spires, soaring arches, and stunning stained glass windows. Climb to the rooftop for breathtaking views of the city.
    • What to see: The Duomo’s facade, the stained glass windows, the rooftop statues and the Madonnina statue atop the spire.
  • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Immerse yourself in the opulent beauty of this historic shopping arcade connected to the Duomo. Admire the intricate mosaics and browse through luxury boutiques like Prada and Gucci.
  • Santa Maria delle Grazie: Home to Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece “The Last Supper,” this church and former monastery is a must-see for any visitor.
    • Note: Book tickets well in advance as they sell out quickly.

Where to Stay:

For a luxurious stay near the heart of Milanese fashion and design, consider:

  • Luxury:
    • Hotel Principe di Savoia: This iconic hotel offers unparalleled elegance and service near the Duomo.
    • Armani Hotel Milano: A stunning hotel within the Armani flagship store, perfect for a stylish immersion.
  • Boutique Charm:
    • Hotel Brera: Experience chic design and personalized service in this luxurious boutique hotel located in the trendy Brera district.
    • Hotel VIU Milan: Modern and stylish with a focus on sustainability, this unique hotel offers a beautiful rooftop terrace and a relaxing spa.

Mid-Range Options:

  • Design Hotels:

    • NH Collection Milano President: Stylish and centrally located, it’s perfect for exploring the city.
    • Hotel Milano Scala: Offers comfortable accommodations and a convenient location near the opera house.

  • Charming Apartments:

    • Airbnb: Find unique and affordable apartments in various neighborhoods across Milan.
    • Hotels in Navigli district: This historic canal district boasts stylishly renovated apartments with access to vibrant nightlife and restaurants.

Where to Eat:

Milan is renowned for its culinary delights. Dive into the local scene with a few of these recommendations:

  • Traditional Italian:

  • Osteria Brunello: Indulge in authentic Milanese cuisine like risotto alla milanese (with saffron!) and cotoletta (breaded veal cutlet).

  • Trattoria del Pescatore: Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional pasta dishes in a charming, old-school setting.

  • Modern Cuisine & International Flavors:

  • Cracco: Experience Michelin-starred excellence with a focus on modern Italian cuisine.

  • Eataly: This Italian food emporium offers a wide variety of traditional and contemporary Italian dishes as well as a marketplace for fresh ingredients.

What to Eat:

  • Risotto alla Milanese: A classic Milanese dish made with saffron-infused risotto, usually served with a breaded veal cutlet.
  • Cotoletta: Indulge in this thin, breaded, and pan-fried veal cutlet, often a culinary highlight of the “Cotoletta” (Milanese for “veal cutlet”).

Activities & Things to Do:

  • Visit the Duomo: Marvel at the architectural wonder that is the Milan Cathedral.
  • Experience the Last Supper: Book tickets in advance, as this iconic fresco by Leonardo da Vinci is extremely popular.
  • Explore the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: This stunning shopping arcade offers a glimpse into Milan’s opulent past and a chance to window shop or splurge on high-end brands.

Where to Eat (cont.)

  • Pizza & Pasta: Enjoy a slice at Pizzeria Spontini for their famous thick-crust pizza, or indulge in the classic “Milanese” at Trattoria Milanese - they’re known for their delicious pasta dishes and authentic Italian cuisine.
  • Fine Dining: For a truly unique experience, try Cracco, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a modern twist on traditional Italian fare.

Where to Eat (cont.)

  • Aperitivo: This is a must-do in Milan. It’s a pre-dinner drink and buffet tradition where you pay for a drink and get access to delicious snacks.

  • Modern Italian Cuisine:

    • Eataly: This Italian food emporium offers a variety of modern Italian dishes, from fresh pasta dishes to innovative pizzas with seasonal ingredients.

  • Gelato: Enjoy a scoop (or two!) at Grom, known for its high-quality gelato made with fresh and natural ingredients.

Other things to do in Milan:

  • Explore the art scene: Visit the Pinacoteca di Brera, home to masterpieces by Italian artists like Raphael and Caravaggio.
  • Shop till you drop: Milan is a fashionista’s paradise! From high-end boutiques near the Duomo to vintage shops in the Navigli district, you can find it all.

Don’t forget:

  • Visit during “Aperitivo” time: This pre-dinner tradition offers a chance to experience traditional Italian food and culture, with many bars and restaurants serving free snacks and drinks alongside your aperitif.
  • Enjoy the nightlife in the Navigli district: The canals come alive at night with trendy bars and clubs offering a variety of music and entertainment.

Hidden Gems:

  • Museo del Novecento: Explore Italian art from the 20th century, including works by Futurism artists.

  • Brera Art District: Discover the charm of Milanese culinary traditions in this area’s hidden trattorias and osterias, serving up local delicacies like cotoletta alla milanese, a veal cutlet coated in breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection, and sample delicious aperitivos (small snacks) at various bars and restaurants.

Where to Eat:

  • For the best “Cotoletta” experience:

    • Pizzeria Luini: This iconic bakery near Piazza del Duomo serves up a unique and popular panzerotti (fried Italian bread pocket filled with ingredients).

  • For a traditional Milanese meal:

    • Trattoria della Pescheria: Enjoy this local favorite for its fresh seafood dishes.

Other things to do:

  • Leonardo’s Vineyard: A delightful escape from the city, this tranquil setting offers beautiful views and delicious wines.

  • Hidden courtyards: Explore the charming hidden courtyards of Milanese palazzos (palaces), discovering unexpected beauty in the heart of the city.

  • Hidden shops & cafes: Indulge in a sweet treat at a local pasticceria (bakery) or find unique, handcrafted souvenirs and gifts at a small shop off the beaten path.

Don’t forget to:

  • Explore the city: Venture beyond the tourist attractions to discover Milan’s hidden gems.
  • Enjoy the experience: Wander through the charming streets of Milan and explore its various neighborhoods.

Enjoy the “Milanese” Atmosphere:

  • Visit a local market: Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of one of Milan’s many markets, where you can find fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and other regional delicacies.
  • Enjoy the canals: Grab a gelato and stroll along the picturesque Navigli canals, soaking up the charm and beauty of this historic area.

Stay tuned for future posts with more tips on things to do in Milan!