Milan: Destination Guide | a road to Italy

Milano, Italy. 

Milan, Italy, epitomizes elegance, blending rich history with modern charm. Renowned as a fashion capital, Milan's streets showcase cutting-edge designs during events like Milan Fashion Week. Its culinary scene tantalizes with traditional Milanese dishes like ossobuco and risotto alla Milanese, alongside international flavors.

The city's history is etched in architectural marvels like the Gothic Duomo di Milano and Leonardo da Vinci's enigmatic masterpiece, The Last Supper. Must-visit attractions include the Sforza Castle, housing museums and art collections, and the vibrant Navigli district with picturesque canals.

Milan seamlessly blends tradition with innovation, offering a captivating journey through fashion, food, history, and art in a compact and vibrant cityscape.

How to get there

Milan is located in the north of Italy, it is cheap and easy to get to Milan Malpensa Airport from cities across Europe, and is generally speaking, one of the cheapest ports to land into. You can take a 50 minute train from the Airport directly to the city centre. 

Milan Malpensa Airport

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If you travel by train you will arrive at Milan central station, you can then take a bus or connecting train to your accommodation. 

Milan Central Station

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Getting around Milan is very easy, they have a great public transport network which is pretty reliable. See 'how to get around' for more info. 

How to get around 

Get yourself and eSim which connects to the network as soon as you arrive in Italy. Getting around Milan is easy, there is so much to see, apps like Citymapper will help you navigate the streets. Moovit has schedules for the public transport network (though they're not always on time). You can buy train and bus tickets with the Trenitalia App. FreeNow or Uber are going to be your best friends when you've had too much wine for lunch and just need to get home. 

Tip: Make sure you have cash, and change, if you need to get a public bus you can pay on the bus but they do not give change. 

Local and regional eSIMs for travellers - Airalo

www.airalo.com

Citymapper | The Ultimate Transport App

citymapper.com

Trenitalia | Buy Train Tickets

www.trenitalia.com

FreeNow | Europe's Rideshare App

www.free-now.com

Where to Eat

In Milan, indulge in authentic Milanese cuisine at Trattoria Masuelli San Marco for ossobuco or at Trattoria del Nuovo Macello for risotto alla Milanese. These iconic dishes showcase the region's culinary prowess, enticing visitors with rich flavors and traditional Italian charm.

Trattoria Masuelli San Marco

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Trattoria Masuelli San Marco in Milan is celebrated for its authentic Milanese cuisine, offering classic dishes like ossobuco and risotto alla Milanese in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

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Trattoria del Nuovo Macello

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Trattoria del Nuovo Macello in Milan is renowned for its traditional Milanese fare, serving up delectable dishes like risotto alla Milanese with a modern twist, creating a memorable dining experience.

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Panzerotti Luini

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Enjoy delicious panzerotti, a traditional Italian pastry filled with various toppings, at affordable prices.

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Panini Durini

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Dive into a variety of freshly made paninis filled with Italian ingredients, perfect for a quick and tasty meal.

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Ravioleria Sarpi

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Indulge in a selection of delicious ravioli dishes at budget-friendly prices.Indulge in a selection of delicious ravioli dishes at budget-friendly prices.

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Da Giacomo

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Renowned for its impeccable seafood dishes and elegant ambiance, Da Giacomo offers a quintessential Milanese dining experience.

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Trattoria Trippa

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This cozy trattoria is celebrated for its traditional Milanese cuisine, with a focus on offal dishes like tripe prepared in creative and delicious ways.

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Ratanà

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Ratanà is known for its innovative take on Lombard cuisine, using locally-sourced ingredients to create dishes that blend tradition with modern culinary techniques.

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Armani/Ristorante

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Located within the Armani Hotel Milano, this upscale restaurant offers contemporary Italian cuisine crafted with precision and elegance, accompanied by stunning views of the city skyline.

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Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia

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Experience authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist at this Michelin-starred restaurant.

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Cracco

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Enjoy Tuscan specialties and homemade pasta dishes at this charming trattoria.

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Joia

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Discover vegetarian and vegan haute cuisine at this renowned restaurant, perfect for a unique dining experience.

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Ristorante Berton

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Indulge in exquisite contemporary Italian cuisine and impeccable service at this elegant fine dining establishment.

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Enrico Bartolini

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Where to Visit

In Milan, immerse yourself in architectural wonders like the Gothic grandeur of the Duomo di Milano and the historic Sforza Castle. Explore the vibrant Navigli district's picturesque canals, and indulge in art at the Pinacoteca di Brera. Fashion enthusiasts can't miss the luxury boutiques along Via Montenapoleone.

📖 To book click on the destination and you will find a link to their website. 

Duomo di Milano

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Visit the iconic Milan Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and enjoy panoramic views from the rooftop.

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Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

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Shop at luxury boutiques and admire the stunning glass-roofed arcade connecting Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Scala.

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Sforzesco Castle

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Explore this historic castle housing museums, art collections, and beautiful courtyards in the heart of Milan.

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The Last Supper Museum

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Admire this famous fresco at the Santa Maria delle Grazie church, but be sure to book tickets in advance.

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Navigli

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Stroll along the picturesque canals, browse unique boutiques, and enjoy vibrant nightlife in this trendy neighborhood.

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Pinacoteca di Brera

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Pinacoteca di Brera in Milan is a renowned art gallery housed in a historic palace, boasting a rich collection of Italian masterpieces including works by Caravaggio and Raphael.

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Via Monte Napoleone

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Via Montenapoleone in Milan is a prestigious and fashionable street, lined with luxury boutiques and designer stores, offering a glamorous shopping experience for fashion enthusiasts.

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Lake Como

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Lake Como, nestled amidst the Italian Alps, enchants visitors with its stunning natural beauty and picturesque towns like Bellagio and Varenna. Approximately 50 kilometers north of Milan, it's easily accessible by train or car, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city with its serene waters and lush surroundings.

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Hidden Gems

Milan is a city of churches, gardens and fashion. To truly experience the city check out these hidden gems around Milan. 

Brera Botanical Garden

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Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and wander through this peaceful botanical garden showcasing a diverse collection of plants.

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Basilica di Sant'Eustorgio

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Discover this lesser-known church with stunning architecture, ancient relics, and a peaceful atmosphere.

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Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore

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Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore in Milan is an architectural gem renowned for its stunning frescoes and rich history, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's religious and artistic heritage.

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Gucci - Milano Flagship

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Explore the luxurious world of Gucci at their flagship store in Milan, showcasing high-end fashion and accessories renowned for their elegance and craftsmanship.

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Fondazione Prada

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Immerse yourself in the innovative designs of Prada at their boutique in Milan, where you can discover cutting-edge fashion pieces that epitomize modern sophistication.

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Dolce & Gabbana

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Visit the Dolce & Gabbana boutique in Milan to explore their eclectic collections, blending Italian heritage with contemporary flair, offering a unique and luxurious shopping experience.

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Versace home Flagship Store

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Experience the glamour of Versace at their Milanese store, featuring bold and vibrant designs that exude confidence and style, synonymous with the brand's iconic aesthetic.

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Bakeries & Coffee Shops

Coffee and pastry are an integral part of Italian culture. Offering a delightful blend of tradition and innovation there are countless Pasticceria and coffee shops. Indulge in epic artisanal pastries, aromatic espresso and sandwiches enriching your Milanese experience. 

Pavé

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Indulge in delectable pastries, artisanal bread, and specialty coffee at this trendy bakery known for its quality ingredients.

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Marchesi 1824

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Experience a touch of elegance at this historic pastry shop offering traditional Italian sweets, chocolates, and aromatic coffees.

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Sant Ambroeus Milano

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Biancolatte

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Biancolatte charms patrons with its whimsical decor and delicious homemade desserts, including their signature tiramisu.

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Pasticceria Cucchi

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Cucchi is a historic pastry shop in Milan, offering a wide selection of traditional Italian pastries and cakes.

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California Bakery

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Known for its American-style baked goods, California Bakery serves up delicious cupcakes, brownies, and brunch options.

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Pasticceria Gattullo

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Gattullo is a beloved Milanese bakery famous for its freshly baked bread, focaccia, and savory snacks.

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Cova Montenapoleone

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Founded in 1817, Pasticceria Cova is a Milanese institution renowned for its exquisite pastries, chocolates, and coffee, enjoyed in an elegant setting.

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GROM

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Gelateria Grom is celebrated for its artisanal gelato made from high-quality ingredients, with flavors ranging from classic to innovative.

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Botega Caffe Cacao Milano

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Cocktail Bars

In Milan, cocktail bars offer a diverse and vibrant nightlife experience. From legendary establishments serving classic cocktails to innovative bars crafting creative concoctions, each venue exudes its own unique charm. Whether you seek retro elegance or contemporary chic, Milan's cocktail scene promises an unforgettable evening of sophistication and indulgence.

Bulgari Hotel Milano

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Enjoy signature cocktails in a luxurious setting at this upscale bar located within a prestigious hotel.

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IT Milano

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Dry

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Discover a trendy cocktail bar known for its innovative drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and stylish decor.

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Backdoor 43

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Backdoor 43 holds the title of the world's smallest bar, offering an intimate and exclusive setting for enjoying bespoke cocktails made with precision and care.

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Nottingham Forest

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Known for its whimsical and creative approach to mixology, Nottingham Forest Cocktail Bar offers a menu of inventive cocktails inspired by literature and pop culture.

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Justme Milano - Restaurant & Club

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Mag Cafe

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Mag Café is a cozy and atmospheric bar known for its extensive selection of cocktails, including creative twists on classic recipes, served in a relaxed and inviting setting.

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Happy Travelling, 

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