In Milan, fashion is king whether it’s simply the architecture, the shops or the people everything oozes style. With so many sites to see and a proud heritage to display, Milan is a truly Italian city, in-between sipping delectable macchiatos, americanos, or frappuchinos, you will be seeing some world famous sites in a city that prides itself on its appearance.
San Siro
Italians love their football, home of fiery Italian footballers (Gennaro Gattuso) loose cannons (Mario Balotelli) and generally beautiful stallions of men (Andrea Pirlo), Italy is a special place when it comes to the beautiful game. Nowhere is this more apparent than the San Siro, built in 1926, it has undergone many renovations to become one of the most legendary stadiums in the world which holds a capacity of 83,381 people. Two of Italy’s biggest football clubs - A.C Milan and Inter Milan play their games here. As home to two of Italy’s most famous teams there is always something going on here each weekend and as Italy’s biggest stadium you will be able snap up tickets to a game on most match days. Guided tours are also available; you can visit the stadium’s museum and learn about the magnificent history which surrounds both clubs.
Hit the Duomo
This is a total no brainer, the cathedral is at the heart of all tourist activity in Milan. The enormous white marble facade of the building is a genuine eye catcher. It should not be a shock to discover that it took centuries to build and the last restoration leaves it looking as breath taking as ever, a walk around it is an excellent way to appreciate its size and if you plan to enter make sure you are appropriately dressed, covering arms and legs otherwise you will be not be let in! The stained glass windows are genuine works of art and will have you marvelling in awe, one thing you simply must do too when inside which not everyone knows is about is take an elevator to the roof, walking in-between the huge spires is a thrilling way to spend a morning, especially if it’s a clear day.
Window Shop
As one of the fashion capitals of the world, you can expect cashmere scarves that cost more than moderately priced cars but this should not deter you from wandering the decadent streets of Quadrilatero d’Oro – the fashion centre of Milan. Watching people carrying their overprized goods in their oversized bags, you may feel out of place strolling around fashion boutiques in your travel gear but tucked away down side alleys are elaborate window displays which showcase the famous brands of Prada, Armani, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, Ferragamo, and Valentino. Of course, if you are absolutely desperate to get your hands on some Milanese style then there are a number of cheaper options, notably many fashion outlets.
Coffee
We have Milan to thank for Starbucks’ dash for world domination in the form of squeezing as many branches as possible onto the world’s high streets. The CEO took inspiration from the many niche espresso bars, which hold a dominant social role in Italy and this was transferred to America. Sampling some authentic coffee in an Italian cafe is bucket list worthy, local baristas treat coffee making like an art form. Around the Duomo there are a cluster of elegant cafes. Around the Castello Sforzesco complex, head to Bar Bianco, usually packed with the sophisticated and the stylish drinking a caffè macchiato, you can join them and plan out your itinerary on a sunny weekend.
The Last Supper
No trip is Milan is complete with seeing Leonardo’s da Vinci’s masterpiece “The Last Supper”, found in the church of Santa Maria della Grazie, this is one of the greatest products of the Renaissance and one of the most recognised images from around the world. Naturally as such a famous painting, tickets to get inside and see it can be hard to obtain thanks to strict rules to limits of people who can be in the room at the same time. Plan in advance though and you will easily be able to feast your eyes on one of the most recognisable pieces of art in the world. In the 19th century it was a backdrop to the French invasion and nearly got destroyed in the Second World War. But after undergoing restoration the fresco can now be seen in full colour. Make sure that you reserve a timed, 15-minute slot in which to visit the masterpiece.
