Milan
The metropolis in the north of Italy has a lot to offer for lovers of city trips
Categories: Milan Lombardy Italy
In the shadows of Rome, Florence and Venice, Milan is often a little forgotten. But the metropolis in the north of Italy has a lot to offer for lovers of city trips.
The voyage of discovery begins in the heart of the city, at the Cathedral Square.
© beatrice prève / Fotolia
The Milan Cathedral is the largest marble building in the world and is known beyond all national borders. A lift takes you up to the viewing roof, from where you can get a better view of the stonemasonry of the Cathedral as well as enjoying a breathtaking view over the whole city.
Just a few steps away from the Cathedral is the legendary Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping centre. This imposing glass-roofed building houses the shops that undoubtedly make Milan the fashion capital of Italy. From Prada to Gucci to Louis Vuitton, every designer label can be found here.
Take a break from shopping at Caffe Miani, where Campari was once invented. In addition to the famous aperitif, guests are pampered with excellent espresso and delicious cakes.
A stroll through the city takes you past the stock exchange and the monastery church of San Maurizio with its magnificent murals to the Dominican church of Santa Maria delle Grazie - home of Leonardo da Vinci's painting 'The Last Supper'. Due to the large crowd it is absolutely necessary to reserve the entrance tickets in advance. It is worth it and you should not leave Milan without having a look at this unique work.
Another highlight of every trip to Milan is the Teatro alla Scala - the Milan Opera. Apart from the Opera Museum, which houses numerous costumes and instruments, you can also admire the neo-classical style stage hall during a guided tour. With a bit of luck you can even witness a rehearsal of the artists.
To see more of the city, you can choose between a boat tour or a ride on the historic tram. The former takes about an hour's journey from the Naviglio Grande along the waterways of Milan, past historic houses and bridges, to the former harbour basin.
The bright orange tram on Line 1 stops at all the city's main sights and is also equipped with audio guides. The perfect way to rest your legs a little and still not miss anything. It is worth stopping at the Piazza della Repubblica and the statue of the activist Giuseppe Mazzini. The journey continues along the shopping street Via Montenapoleona to the Castello Sforzesco. The 15th century castle is surrounded by a spacious park.
In culinary terms, Milan delights with all the delicacies that Italian cuisine has to offer. On the roof terrace of 'Ceresio 7' you can enjoy traditional pasta and fish dishes in a noble atmosphere. Typical for Milan, the restaurant belongs to the successful fashion designer duo Dsquared².
© Minerva Studio / Fotolia
At the 'Risoelatte', near the Piccolo Theatre, it tastes like a typical Italian grandmother. For the smaller purse, the countless restaurants and bars in the trendy Navigli district offer something for every taste. This is also the best place to end the evening with a glass of wine after an exciting day. With the view of the canals, pure Italian joie de vivre is created.
