By Marina C. Acitizentoftheworld.blogspot.com
When one thinks of Milan, the most obvious thing that comes to mind is fashion and shopping. I can assure you that there is much more to it though!
I will start from the classic walk to the center of Milan starting from Piazza del Duomo, where Milan’s cathedral stands. Around the Duomo Square you can shop as well as have an original Italian coffee. Another thing I suggest is climbing to the top of the cathedral, but make sure to go in the morning, as the roof is only open until the early afternoon. On the north side of the square is the Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele II, a covered arcade that hosts shops, cafes, and restaurants. Walking through the Galleria, you will end up at the Scala of Milan. The fashion lovers shouldn’t miss the Monte Napoleone and Della Spiga streets, with all the high-end brands.
After having shopped, you can go and relax in Milan’s Parco Sempione, a two-minute walk from the Duomo square, and visit Castello Sforzesco, Milan’s fortress. Inside Parco Sempione you will also find the Branca Tower. Take a ride with the lift for a magnificent view of the city. Another green site in Milan that is worth a visit is the Giardini Publici, which are a few minutes walk away from Via Monte Napoleone.
For a little bit of culture, it is worth visiting the Triennale, a design museum right by Parco Sempione and the Pinacoteca di Brera for some more classic art. On the Duomo square you will find the Palazzo Reale, which hosts temporary exhibitions, as well as the newly founded Museo del Novecento.
In the evening, the Milanese go out for an apperitivo, or happy hour, where together with your drink, you can choose from a variety of appetizers to go with it. Two of my favorite areas to go in the evening are Brera, which is right behind the Scala of Milan and the Navigli, which is located in the southern part of the city. In both areas you can find a variety of cozy bars to have your drink.
For more information on Italian cities as well as others, visit Acitizentoftheworld.blogspot.com
©Marina C. 2011
