The Best of Milan: Where to Eat, Stay, and Shop
Milan, the bustling financial and fashion capital of Italy, is known for its modern architecture, magnificent museums, and of course, its shopping streets. The city offers an immersive culinary experience with a blend of traditional Italian and global cuisines. Moreover, it offers a wide range of accommodations from luxury hotels to affordable hostels. With so much to choose from, we have curated a list of the best places to stay, eat and shop in Milan.
Where to Stay
Milan offers some of the best hotels in the world. From luxurious suites to cozy apartments, there is something for everyone.
1. Park Hyatt Milan – Located in the heart of the city, Park Hyatt Milan is a five-star hotel that offers the perfect balance of luxury and convenience. The hotel features a 24-hour fitness center, spa, and Michelin-starred restaurant VUN Andrea Aprea.
2. Grand Hotel et de Milán – Located on Via Manzoni, the Grand Hotel et de Milán is situated in the iconic 19th-century building. The hotel is just a stone’s throw away from the city’s major attractions and high-end shopping districts.
3. ME Milan Il Duca – The ME Milan Il Duca is located in the Brera district, which is home to renowned artisan shops and galleries. The hotel features a rooftop bar with stunning views of the Milan skyline.
Where to Eat
Milan’s vibrant culinary scene is a mix of traditional Italian and global cuisine.
1. Trattoria Toscana Spiga – This traditional Tuscan restaurant is located in the city center and offers a wide range of dishes prepared with fresh and seasonal ingredients.
2. Osteria della Vite – Located in Brera, this cozy restaurant specializes in classic Milanese cuisine. The homemade pasta and meat dishes are a must-try.
3. Panzerotti Luini – A Milanese staple, Panzerotti Luini is famous for its fried pockets of dough filled with a variety of savory and sweet fillings.
Where to Shop
Milan is home to some of the world’s most exclusive designer stores, luxury boutiques, and vintage markets.
1. Via Montenapoleone – One of the most famous shopping streets in Milan, Via Montenapoleone is lined with luxury boutiques of international and Italian designers.
2. Brera – This bohemian neighborhood is home to artisan shops, niche boutiques and local designers.
3. Mercato Metropolitano – This marketplace, located in the Navigli area of Milan, offers a selection of local and international cuisine, craft cocktails, and cultural activities, along with urban farming projects.
Top 10 Tourist Attractions
1. Duomo di Milano – The magnificent Gothic cathedral, located in the city center, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Milan.
2. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – One of the oldest and most elegant shopping malls in the world, the Galleria is known for its stunning architecture and high-end shops.
3. Sforza Castle – This 15th-century fortress, located in the heart of Milan, houses several museums and art collections.
4. Teatro alla Scala – One of the world’s most famous opera houses, Teatro alla Scala, hosts world-class performances throughout the year.
5. Pinacoteca di Brera – This art museum is home to a vast collection of Italian Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Raphael, Caravaggio, and Botticelli.
6. Navigli – The Navigli area, with its picturesque canals, charming restaurants, and unique bars, is a popular spot for evening strolls and aperitivo.
7. Porta Venecia – This vibrant neighborhood, known for its rich cultural heritage and contemporary architecture, is home to several museums, theaters, and exhibition spaces.
8. Cimitero Monumentale di Milano – A unique sightseeing attraction, this monumental cemetery is known for its elaborate and unique tombs and sculptures.
9. Piazza del Duomo – The main square in Milan, Piazza del Duomo, offers stunning views of the city’s skyline and the cathedral.
10. Bosco Verticale – This innovative residential complex, located in the Porta Nuova district, is known for its unique vertical forest design, with more than 900 trees and thousands of plants grown on its balconies.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Milan?
The best time to visit Milan is between March and May and September and November when the weather is mild, and the crowds are light.
2. What is the currency used in Milan?
The currency used in Milan is the Euro.
3. Is it safe to travel to Milan?
Milan is generally safe for tourists, but like any other city, there can be instances of petty theft or pickpocketing. Therefore, it is always advisable to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
4. What kind of food can I expect in Milan?
Milan offers a wide range of traditional Italian cuisine, including pasta, risotto, and pizza. Moreover, the city has a diverse food scene, including international cuisines such as Chinese, Japanese, and Middle Eastern.
5. What are some popular local Milanese souvenirs?
Some popular souvenirs in Milan include designer clothing, leather goods, and artisanal objects such as Murano glass and ceramics.
Conclusion
Milan, the city of fashion and design, has something to offer for every traveler. With its iconic landmarks, stunning architecture, luxury shopping, and rich culinary traditions, Milan has gained its reputation as one of Europe’s top cultural and tourist destinations. Whether you’re a first-time or experienced traveler to Milan, our guide provides the best recommendations for the best places to stay, eat, and shop, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant and dynamic city of Milan.