Milan

Holidays to Milan are for dusting off your finest clothing and surrounding yourself with all the Italian elegance and finery you could desire. The city’s known as the fashion capital of Italy for its fashion houses, Milan Fashion Week and stylish boutiques on every corner. Everything is done with a touch of sophistication here – the food, the ever-popular aperitivi, Michelin-starred restaurants and a growing number of groundbreaking museums. Milan’s rich history seamlessly combines with the ultra-modern - glitzy architecture which stands alongside iconic sights like the Duomo Cathedral. Couples can enjoy dipping in and out of boutiques, having fancy lunches in sun filled terrazzas, strolling through the arcaded ceilings of the Pinacoteca di Brera art gallery and admiring mind bending attractions like vertical forests. A holiday in Milan offers the perfect balance of culture and historic sights paired with classic good food and wine to satisfy all your cravings on a city break.

Things to do Discover the best of Milan, even if it means going off the tourist trails. Visit cafés such as Pasticceria Cova, a historic Milanese spot which has been serving cappuccinos and tiramisu under grand chandeliers for over 200 years. And if you enjoy browsing a vast selection of Italian cheeses, cured meats, olive oils and other goods, you’ll love Peck – a deli and café which has been open since 1883. Then there’s Al Fresco Restaurant, which is located in the hip Zona Tortona neighbourhood where your drink or meal is served in the romantic garden terrace. There’s nothing quite like a walk at dusk around Navigli, Milan’s canal neighbourhood, which is dotted with relaxed aperitivo spots by the water – perfect for a sunset view with an Aperol spritz. One of the best views of the Duomo cathedral comes from the top of the Museo del Novecento, a modern art gallery. Finally, after a few days of sightseeing, you’ll be ready to head to QC Terme Milano, the open-air thermal baths set within ruins.

Local Food When in Milan I would suggest trying classic Milanese dishes like Risotto alla Milanese, Cotoletta alla Milanese, and Ossobuco. For street food, look for Panzerotti, and for breakfast, a cappuccino e brioche is a must-try. Another highlight is the Negroni Sbagliato cocktail, a local creation, and recommend visiting spots like Bar Basso or exploring areas like Via Dente for a great dining experience

Twin a Milan city break with a stay in Lake Como There’s no short supply of things to do in Milan, but during its super-hot summer months you might find yourself needing a break from its busy streets. Italy’s lakes are within reach of the city and make a perfect match if you’re looking to escape for a few hours, or even a day or two. Lake Como is your closest spot – it’s an hour’s drive from the centre of the city. Or, if you don’t fancy hitting the road, there are plenty of direct train services to the lakes from Milan’s main train station.

Italy is a dream that keeps returning for the rest of your life." – Anna Akhmatova