With its picturesque beauty and romantic charm, Milan has constantly drawn travelers all around the world.

Milan maybe Italy’s most modern city as it serves as the financial and fashion capital of the country, it’s still vibrant with different interesting sights to offer. While the metropolis’ atmosphere is dynamic and industrial, it never forgets its past glories with its centuries-old institutions and historical destinations.

Living in Design

Situated at the Lombardy region, Milan is recognized worldwide as a design and fashion capital. Milan has an impressive element of Italy’s heritage: it is an amazing city of art and design. It is Italy’s hub of culture, media, music, and sports. The city is home to various luxury design and fashion brands, and various exhibitions and events showcasing the best of Italian art and design.

While it is a bustling metro with a fast-faced lifestyle, it is never short of exciting and remarkable destinations notable for its historical significance and outstanding architecture. Among these attractions are the Sempione Park, the largest park in the city and the location of the triumphal Arch of Peace; the Naviglio Grande, where tourists can ride a boat along the canal; and the Neoclassical palace, Villa Belgiojoso Bonaparte.

Marvel at the most significant and spectacular art pieces that can only be found in Milan. Visit the famous The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci at the convent of Santa Maria della Grazie. Viewing the mural painting is free of charge but requires strict preparations before seeing it. One may also pay a visit at the Pinacoteca di Brera which houses one of the main art collections of Renaissance art in Italy with over half a thousand art pieces from the 14th-20th century.

Aside from being a fashion-forward and art-filled metropolis with various design destinations, Milan also showcases a wide array of hotels. Visitors may opt to stay in Excelsior Hotel Gallia. The luxury hotel is widely regarded for its stylish interiors that pay homage to true Milanese lifestyle and timeless elegance brought to life by carefully curated furnishings made by Italian craftsmen. Travelers may also stay at Hotel Principe di Savoia.

Since the 1920s, the hotel has been wowing its guests with its posh furnishings and antiques. However, the true star of the shows is its Presidential Suite which offers its own indoor swimming pool and spa amenities, have housed various notable personalities and elites. Lastly, Armani Hotel Milano is also a great stay for its sleek aesthetic and serene and minimalist interior.

A Gateway to History

A great way to learn and appreciate a country is by learning their history. The Northern Italian metropolis evidently reflects its rich history as it is filled with iconic landmarks and places. Start by visiting Via Dante, a pedestrian street distinctive of its old structures set during the 18th and 19th century.

This street named after famous author Dante Alighieri connects the Piazza del Cordusio to the Sforza Castle. Its most famous buildings are the commercial and residential spaces of Casa Broggi, Casa Cicchieri, and Casa Cavalli.

Another is the Piccolo Teatro, or affectionately called as “little theatre”, established in 1947. It showcases the city’s cultural performances such as dramatic plays, musicals, concerts, and film showing. Few blocks away from the Via Dante, tourists can reach the Sforza Castle. It is considered as one of Europe’s largest and most important fortifications.

Another castle to visit is the Palazzo Reale di Milano or commonly known as the Royal Palace of Milan located as the Piazza del Duomo. The neo-classical building used to serve as the seat of government of the Italian city of Milan for many centuries, but is now a cultural center and home to expositions and exhibitions.

Popularly known as Cathedral Square, Piazza del Duomo is the meeting point of locals and as well as tourists sightseeing in the area. In front of the Piazza, one can find the magnificent Milan Cathedral. With its breathtaking architecture, this cathedral is also the largest in Italy.

Glamour of Milanese Fashion

Being one of the world’s fashion capitals, one of the biggest influences Milan has to offer is its fashion industry. A major landmark in the city, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele is the oldest active shopping mall in the world.

Aside from being a fashion destination, the mall is greatly appreciated for its historical significance and regal atmosphere and architecture. Another destination is the luxury shopping street, Via Montenapoleone which is part of part of the Quadrilatero d’Oro also known as Milan’s golden quadrilateral. Via Montenapoleone is an essential destination for luxury shopping in the city. It is home to major Italian designer brands.

A Taste of Italy

A trip to Italy is never complete without enjoying the fine cuisines the country has to offer. For those who wish to try the authentic Milanese flavors, try Ratanà, a neo-bistro which offers classic dishes such as roasted pumpkin with robiola and saffron risotto. With those of discerning taste, one can dine at Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia.

This two-Michelin starred fine-dining restaurant is adored for its seasonal dishes and wide choices of wines. And lastly, Un Posto a Milano gives a sight of countryside Milan. The menu offers fresh farm-to-table food and prides itself for using locally sourced ingredients.

A Perfect Mix of Old and Modern Sophistication

While Milan may be known for its role as Italy’s fashion and design capital, and technologically advanced hub for commerce, the metropolis stays true to its rich history. The real charm of Milan is simultaneously experiencing its centuries-old landmarks, impressive museums, cutting-edge modern design hubs, and highly-acclaimed fashion houses all at once in a single place. It’s truly having the best of both worlds.