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I T A L Y

M I L A N

O V E R V I E W

OVERVIEW

Italy’s fashion and design capital, Milan is a city of sleek sophistication underpinned by centuries of history and artistry. 


From the gothic grandeur of the Duomo to the avant-garde creations of its couture houses, Milan offers a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary innovation. 


Whether you’re captivated by art, architecture, or aperitivos, Milan is an invitation to experience Italy with a distinctly modern twist. 


It's also an easy gateway out to the lakes up north, or a variety of other lovely nearby cities, Bergamo, per essempio.

Here's what we think should form the core of your experience:

Art & History

While often scoffed at a bit by Italians as being too businesslike and to strict, Milan has much to offer in the way of cultural treasures. 


The Duomo, with its elaborate spires and breathtaking rooftop views, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. 


Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper at the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie is in many important ways, right down to the way it has proved spectacularly fragile, a quintessential example of this Renaissance genius's work. Da Vinci loved to experiment, and this made him a wonderful and creative figure, and it also meant that many of his works have simply not aged as well as if he'd not messed about quite so much with tried and true formulas. 


The Sforza Castle houses a rich collection of art and artifacts, including Michelangelo’s unfinished Rondanini Pietà. 


And don’t miss the Brera district, where cobblestone streets lead to the Pinacoteca di Brera, home to masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian.

Fashion & Design

The Quadrilatero della Moda, a chic district of luxury boutiques, showcases the cutting edge of Italian style. For those seeking quintessentially Florentine bespoke tailoring (much stronger and more militaristic than its softer and more sprezzaturistic southern Italian brethren) or timeless accessories, this is the place to indulge. 


Milan is an incredibly aesthetic place and has much to offer in the way of cutting edge design. A visitor can see this almost anywhere, but perhaps it's best showcased at the annual Salone del Mobile, and in Milan’s many design showrooms and concept stores. Triennale Milano, housed in Parco Sempione, is a hub for exhibitions exploring art, design, and architecture.

Cuisine & Aparitivo Culture

Milanese cuisine is a reflection of the city’s rustic elegance. Traditional dishes like risotto alla milanese and cotoletta alla milanese are hearty but still refined, and bakeries tempt with panettone and all manner of baking. 


The city is also home to some of Italy’s most celebrated contemporary chefs, offering truly exceptional dining experiences. 


No visit to Milan is complete without tossing back an aperitivo or three, the city’s answer to happy hour. 


Sip on a Negroni Sbagliato or Campari spritz at a rooftop bar while enjoying views of the Duomo, or join locals in the Navigli district, where canals and cobbled streets create a lively, relaxed atmosphere.

P L A N N I N G & G U I D E S

M E M B E R S  O N L Y

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PLANNING & PRIVATE TOUR GUIDES

Here's where the real magic begins.

Milan

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