Milan City Guide

Positioned in the heart of northern Italy, Milan is the second-most populous city and the capital of the Lombardy region. Renowned as the art and fashion capital of Europe, Milan is a vibrant, modern city that flaunts striking architecture, historic works of art and some of the best food on earth.

To make your visit all the more memorable, here’s our guide to the stylish city of Milan.

How to get around

To the airport – Milan-Malpensa Airport is approximately 40 kilometres northwest of the city centre, so it’s best to plan your transportation in advance. Choose to catch the 50-minute Malpensa Express train for just €13 or arrange a private airport transfer service.

Around the city – Most of Milan’s most popular attractions are concentrated in the historic centre, making it a breeze to explore the city by foot. Milan also has a fantastic public transportation system, so trust that you can get everywhere you need by using the metro, bus and tram network.

Where to go

Duomo di Milano – Milan’s most important landmark is impossible to miss. The Duomo di Milan is a magnificent Gothic cathedral, recognisable for its marble pinnacles and spires. Take the elevator to the rooftop terraces for prime views across the city and to the Italian Alps beyond.

The Last Supper –Leonardo Da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper’ is a must-see in Milan. The original mural was painted between 1495 and 1497 on the refectory wall at Santa Maria delle Grazie – be sure to make reservations in advance if you wish to visit the world-renowned painting.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – No visit to Milan is complete without a shopping trip. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is an opulent indoor shopping mall, complete with glass roofs and mosaic floors. Here, you’ll find all your favourite high-end brands, in addition to a selection of bars and restaurants.

La Scala Opera – First opening in 1778, La Scala Opera is one of the world’s most famous opera houses. Catch a performance of the latest opera or symphony or take a guided tour of the auditorium to admire the glorious red and gold interior.

What to eat

Risotto alla Milanese – As Milan’s quintessential dish, be sure to sample some Risotto alla Milanese during your stay. Made with rice, cheese, beef, butter, white wine and saffron, this delicious regional specialty is simply bellissimo.

Polenta – Northern Italians are serious about their polenta, a staple dish made from coarsely ground yellow corn. In restaurants, polenta is often served fried with marinara sauce or as a creamy accompaniment to chicken or pork.

Minestrone Milanese – This isn’t your typical minestrone soup as, unlike other Italian regions, Milan uses rice in place of pasta. Served hot in winter and cold in the summer, minestrone Milanese is packed with a range of healthy vegetables, including cabbage, beets, celery and tomatoes.

Panettone – A delicious type of Italian fruitcake, panettone is usually made with raisins, candied fruit peels, almonds and brandy. While best known as a Christmas dessert, panettone is available in Milan year-round and is the perfect complement to a cup of coffee or a glass of sweet wine.