MilanItaly

Milan is known as afashion capital and the city’s style is evident in everything from its luxuryboutiques and contemporary museums to its world-class restaurants andnightclubs packed with glitterati. The city is also the capital of northernItaly’s Lombardy region and one of the largest cities in Europe, with apopulation of 5 million residents. Milan’s Central Business District is Italy’sfinancial heart; expect modern skyscrapers amongst the beautiful old monumentstypical of Europe.

You’ll find some of thebest art hidden in Milan’s stunning churches. The Cathedral of Milan, which locals call The Duomo, is one of thebiggest churches in the world and its impressive facade is a sight to behold.Stand in front of the cathedral in the bustling Piazza del Duomo. Cross the square and walk a few blocks to see DaVinci’s famous painting The Last Supper in the Santa Maria Della Grazie, a church and convent. Admire morefrescoes alongside ancient relics in the nearby Chiesa di San Maurizio, which also houses the city’s archaeologicalmuseum.

A trip to Milan wouldn’tbe complete without browsing a few of its many world-renowned art galleries.Head straight to the Villa Reale totake in two of the best. The ContemporaryArts Pavilion plays host to temporary exhibitions from some of the world’sgreatest contemporary artists, while the ModernArt Museum has masterpieces from the 19th and 20th centuries. Enjoy classicart by Raphael and Carravagio among others at the Brera Art Gallery a few blocks away.

Northern Italy is famousfor its cuisine, including hearty risottos and panettone for dessert. Eat pastaand gelati from trattorias and gelati bars on almost every street. Finish theday with a show at the famous Teatroalla Scala theatre in the city centre.

Milan is hot in summerand cool in winter, thanks to its proximity to the Italian Alps. Hiresnowboards and skis and head to the mountains for a weekend getaway in thecolder months.

Milan’s northern locationis accessible through its international airport and trains from many Europeancentres. Once here, get around using the affordable tram and metro systems.Make the most of long summer days and explore the streets on foot to discoverwhy Milan is one of the most fashionable cities in the world.