In spite of its frenetic urban pace, you can sill appreciate Milan’s rich history and culture by visiting its passionate operas, unique art treasures, delightful churches and museums.

NICE SIGHTS

Duomo
Dating back to 1300, the Duomo is Milan’s most outstanding artistic and religious monument. Also the world’s third largest Christian church, this Gothic wonder has one of the best views in the city.

La Scala
Since 1778, this famous opera house is dedicated to Italy’s most celebrated composers and performers. It was here that Rossini made his name, where Verdi premiered most of his works nad Puccini’s “Madame Butterfly” had its first airing.

Santa Maria delle Grazie
A pilgrimage for all Leonardo Da Vinci’s fans, this church houses Milan’s greatest art treasure – Leonardo da Vinci’s “The last Supper”. The recently restored fresco can be admired on the refectory wall. And unlike most of the church, the refectory miraculously escaped the bombs of World War II.

BE IN VOGUE

Arguably one of the world’s fashion and design capitals, it’s no surprise that shopping is a religion here. Check out these exciting and must-sees and must-do, especially if you are a fashionista.

Monte Napoleone
Shop till you drop. Or maybe just window-shop if your budget doesn’t stretch to designer goodies. It is still worth taking a stroll down Milan’s high-fashion emporia, Monte Napoleone, and its equally chic sister street, Via Spiga.

photo by Luisfran

Milan Fashion Week
In recent years, the Milan Fashion week has been extended to include some 100 shows. Expect to see hot new creations of the world’s top designers like Versace, D&G, Armani and more.

burberry

Galleria Vittorio Emmanulle II
Designed by Gluseppe Mengoni in 1864, Galleria Vittorio Emmanulle II is a stunning glass-domed arcade lined with chic restaurants, cafes and bookstores – a great place to sip coffee and watch the world go by.

photo by James Martin

INDULGENCE IN STYLE

There will never be a shortage of stylish places to wine, dine and party in Milan. Here are the hot spots not to be missed.

Teatro 7
One of Milan’s most popular restaurants – known for its hip decor and open kitchen where flamboyant chefs Rico Guarnieri and Claudio Colombo cook up complicated delicacies effortlessly.

10 Corso Como
Located in a former mechanic’s workshop, it is a 13,000 square foot complex housing a restaurant, bar, bookstore and homeware/ fashion boutique all rolled into one. It even has an exhibition space for art that attracts collecotrs and enthusiasts alike.

II Volo
Trendy and unique, this bar is at the forefront of the Milanese aperitif revolution. Set in a typical Milan house, there’s a special garden where Armani-suited clientele sip on cocktails under the trees.