Image by Patrick Nouhailler.
License: Creative Commons image source
Do you enjoy culture, art, fashion and food? If the answer is yes, consider yourself at home in Milan,the style capital of the world. If there was ever a place to explore a true passion for the delights of modern society, intermingled with the artistry of ancient Italy, this is it.
Here’s how to spend 48 hours without missing any of the majesty.
Eat
Start your trip off at Trussardi alla Scala Ristorante, and enjoy the contemporary Italian creations of chef Andrea Burton, who invokes the flavours of earthy Milanese cuisine, and seasonal dishes such as grilled scallops with ginger power and peanut cream.
Stop for lunch at Pizzeria Spontini, and enjoy a slice of Italian style whilst standing up. This spot is renowned for creating the best pizzas in the Stazione Centrale since 1953. That’s over 60 years of pizza practice!
Help yourself to dinner with a sumptuous meal at theAntica Trattoria della Pesa, and experience a true taste of Milanese cuisine. Highlights include the funghi porcini pasta, osso bucco and the breaded veal.
If you find yourself longing for a midnight snack, or a quick meal on the go, head for Princi – a quaint bakery serving the likes of cornetto and stracchino.
Shop
When you’ve tasted and drank your way through contemporary and traditional cuisine, take a break and go shop; it’s a popular sport in Milan. Unfortunately you’ve missed Fashion Week 2013, but all the hottest trends can be found in Milan’s prevalent and opulent shops.
Head to the Via Dante Street between the Duomo and the Castle. Alternatively, take a trip to the Golden Quadrangle, and find the hottest fashions in stores known the world over;Armani, Chanel, Missoni, Prada and Versace, to name but a few.
Not into the high fashion scene? Head over to the flea markets. The Fierra di Senigallia is top here, sporting avant garde items such as seventies wear, CDs, clothes and comic books.
Love
Discover the club scene in the Corso Como area of Milan. Loolapaloosa is the perfect dance scene for the young and hip.
If you’re in the mood for the joys of theatre, head to the La Scala Opera House to enjoy the dramatic stylings of top class opera singers. However beware, you need to book in advance or you won’t be able to appreciate this pleasant assault on the senses.
Enjoy sports in the style capital. Visit San Siro Stadium for a heated football match, or a tour of the museum section, where you can view anything from old photographs to the stylistic progression of football boots.
Explore
The Duomo (the cathedral of Milan) is the highlight of any trip. It took nearly 500 years to complete, and is the oldest Gothic cathedral in the world. Its roof displays 135 spires and countless statues. Missing the Duomo is to miss the epicentre of Milan.
Visit the Pinacoteca Di Brera and discover the arts. Housing paintings by Bellini, Raphael and even Piero della Francesca, if you love arts you must see this museum.
Castello Sforzesco serves as a wonderful break from the bustling city. Wander the halls of the castle itself, or enjoy a time-out in the courtyard which serves as a city park. Failing that, visit its museum which houses Michelangelo’s sculpture the Rondanini Pieta.
Why not extend your stay? After all, 48 hours is hardly enough time to discover the wonders of Milan. The last bastion of style, integrity, art, love and couture.
Do share your experiences of Milan in the comment box below!
Caitlin is an avid traveller. When she’s not planning her next trip, she’s writing about it. She recommends Hotelopia for all your accommodation needs.
