Travel Eye on Milan (Italy)

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Overview:

Milan has much in common with the cities of northern Europe; a fast-moving city with a work-hard, play-hard ethos. Rome may be the capital and the seat of government, but Milan is the business heart of Italy, the place where deals are made.

The city has always been important, occupied by successive powers, and like most important cities it has been rebuilt many times. Consequently it lacks the medieval informal charm of other Italian towns, and is sometimes overlooked as a holiday destination. But in fact Milan has a lot to offer the visitor. The city is vibrant and has many sights of interest, as well as being a good jumping-off place for other North Italy destinations, such as Lake Como and the Alps. It's a good spot to spend a city break or a long weekend, or as the starting point for a two-centre holiday.

The designer style and shopping are only for the well-inlaid, but sitting outside a cafe by the fantastic Duomo and admiring the well-dressed world go by is something within everyone's grasp.

In its museums and galleries are some great works of art, while more simple pleasures include climbing up to the Duomo's roof and enjoying the tranquillity and the view over the city to the mountains. The Brera and the Navigli (canal) districts are both appealing for evening strolls.

Locality:

Milan is situated in the Lombardy region of northern Italy.

Entertainment/Facilities/Attractions/Things to do:

For a pleasant evening passeggiata, or stroll, the Brera area is one of the nicest places to wander, dropping into enticing bars or restaurants, or people-watching from a pavement table. There's a trendy buzz, and on busy evenings the little streets are thronged with tourists, Milanesi and itinerant chancers trying to sell you trinkets or read your fortune.

There are many good restaurants in Milan offering all kinds of cuisine and ambience. Many cheaper options, including fast-food restaurants, can be found in the area close to the Duomo - head just off the main streets if you're looking for a quieter trattoria or pizzeria.

The Brera area has several stylish restaurants as well as bars, and other good areas for eating out include the Navigli and the Ticinese neighbourhoods. Regional specialities to sample include risotto alla milanese (rice which is yellow with saffron and bone marrow), ossobucco (a veal dish with vegetables), polenta and a wide range of cakes and desserts.

Milan is Italy's clubbing capital, and there's plenty to do at night, especially around the Navigli and Brera districts. Check a listings magazine like Hello Milano or ViviMilano to get an idea of which venues might suit your tastes.

For designer shopping (or window shopping), the best area is the Quadrilatero, around Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga. For an interesting ramble, try the Navigli, the shabby but fascinating canal district, or the Brera, a picturesque quarter with a trendy, arty vibe. These last two are also good areas for evening promenades and nightlife.