MILAN
MILAN
Dubbed the fast-paced metropolis of Italy, Milan is a city full of endless things to do, places to see, clothes to be bought and most importantly: food to eat. One of the fashion capitals of the world, Milan is our top go-to for destination for when we’re in the mood for a quick getaway. We love people, the fashion, the food, the wine and the culture. Whilst the city has so much to offer for people after a fun vibe, there are an equal amount of places for people who just want to sit back and relax. You truly have the best of both, all in one gorgeous city. Ti Amo, Milano.
We hope you love it,
K, R & D x
WHERE TO GO:
10, 20124 Milano MI, Italy
Founded by the former fashion editor and publisher Carla Sozzani, 10 Corso Como is one of our favourite boutiques in Europe. It’s an oasis of high style, combining an art gallery, a design bookshop, an idiosyncratic fashion boutique and a charming courtyard café – the perfect place to people watch during Fashion Week. Dare we say it, we prefer it to Colette.
Via Montenapoleone, the most famous street in Milan's rectangle of fashion is home to many luxury boutiques. Needless to say, it’s every shopper’s paradise and is a destination in its own right.
The Duomo, Europe’s third biggest Church, sublimely dominates both the great piazza on which it is located and the city of which it has long been the centre. Five hundred years in the making, it contains 3,500 statues. Its 135 spires can be viewed up close on the roof, accessible by lift or stairs. This Gothic cathedral should be on everyone’s to do list.
Okay, so technically it’s not in Milan. But seeing as it’s a 45 minute train ride away from Milan’s gorgeous Stazione Centrale (think of a European Grand Central Station), Lake Como should always be on the cards when visiting Milan. Yes, Lake Como can definitely be planned as a day trip but we highly recommend staying for at least a night. Start your day with breakfast at Villa d’Este, followed by Bellini’s at Harry’s bar finished with an indulgent meal at Gatto Nero. The best views / drinks / food you will experience in Europe – we guarantee it.
WHERE TO STAY:
Via Andegari, 9, 20121 Milano MI, Italy | +39 02 8731 8888
Though there are many gorgeous hotels to stay in Milan, the Mandarin Oriental is our top choice every time purely because of its enviable location in the city’s modish Montenapoleone district. When we travel, we love to walk around everywhere (weather permitting) and this hotel allows you to do that with its close proximity to the city’s best stores, sites and restaurants. The hotel’s incredible spa is the perfect place to come back to after a busy day of exploring and the whole hotel itself is gorgeously Milanese. It really is a traveler’s dream.
WHERE TO EAT:
Via Santo Spirito, 10, 20121 Milano MI, Italy | +39 02 7600 1123
Hands down our favourite lunch spot in Milan. Located just off Via Montenapoleone, aka the shopper’s paradise, this is the perfect lunch spot after an afternoon of shopping (or just for a long lazy lunch). We love everything about this restaurant from the food, to the wine list to the impeccable service, not to mention how incredibly chic the whole place is. We personally prefer to eat al fresco in the courtyard. Warning: reservations are a must – this restaurant is always full all year round!
Via Benvenuto Cellini, 14, 20129 Milano MI, Italy | +39 02 545 5654
Inspired especially by the typical dishes of China and Japan, this avowedly fusion restaurant is led by executive Chef, Jeff Tyler, who previously worked in London restaurants Roka and Zuma. Ingredients of the highest quality are the soul of dishes and with the well-stocked cellar you’ll certainly be able to find worthy pairings for the sophisticated food. During the warmer months, outdoor seating is available by way of a garden with sixty seats distributed around the fountain – the perfect ambience for a summers evening.
Multiple locations
Hands down to the best gelato in Milan. Not only do we eat Grom in every city we find in, but it tastes exceptionally good in Milan. Every flavour is worth trying but our go to every time is the Pistachio.
Via Santa Radegonda, 16, 20121 Milano MI, Italy | +39 02 8646 1917
Want to eat like a local? Luini Panzerotti is the ultimate local spot. Made to go (and only to go), it’s quick it’s simple and it’s oh so good. The queue may be long but the service is fast, you’ll be waiting 10 minutes tops. And they have…everything. It’s cheap enough to buy whatever catches your eye to munch around on whilst you carry on with your day. This place is the definition of cheap and cheerful.
Multiple locations
We’ve done the (very hard) task of finding you the best pizza in Milan. This place believes that great ingredients make great pizza, and they’ve really nailed it. Light, airy, perfectly doughy, tomato-ey and cheesy (sorry if we’re making your mouth water) – it really is the perfect pizza. No reservations so go early to avoid the crowd!
Via Brera, 5, 20121 Milano MI, Italy | +39 02 7862 3698
This super cute French café is surprisingly one of the tastiest gelato spots in Milan. Located in the quaint brera area, you could easily pass an hour or two here trying out all the pastries your heart desires. A definite go to for anyone with a sweet tooth!
Via Pasquale Sottocorno, 6, 20129 Milano MI, Italy | +39 02 7602 3313
Made for all pescatarians out there - the cuisine at Giacomo is seafood prepared with wonderful Italian simplicity. The fresh food and charming ambience more than make up for the journey to get to this restaurant. A definite recommendation for seafood lovers.
Multiple locations
This is Italian style tapas at its best. Small plates, large variety and credits to the staff who can handle this busy a crowd. The menu is large, don’t be alarmed – it’s designed to be shared, but we recommend ordering more appetisers and less of the main course (if any). Our top tip: go in a big group, book ahead and order plenty of starters.
Via Gastone Pisoni, 1, 20121 Milano MI, Italy | +39 02 6231 2645
Whilst we realise that Nobu may be seen as the standard Japanese in every town in which it resides, it must be said that the one in Milan is far from standard. Located in the Armani Hotel, Nobu Milano is the perfect mix of Japanese dining with an upbeat Italian vibe. We recommend you go for the second sitting at 10pm when the lights are dimmer, the drinks get stronger and the ambience is buzzing.
Via Privata Raimondo Montecuccoli, 6, 20147 Milano MI, Italy | +39 02 416886
Tucked away in a quiet suburb of Milan is this Michelin star, family run restaurant. Serving modern Italian cuisine, the best way to experience the food at this place is to go for the tasting menu. They were awarded their first Michelin star in 1980 and their second in 1990, which the restaurant has held ever since. It's one of the highest expressions of Italian cuisine, with every dish always being made with simple yet fresh ingredients. A heaven of gourmet classic Italian cuisine where the quality of food is everything.
WHERE TO PLAY:
Via Gastone Pisoni, 20121 Milano MI, Italy | +39 02 6231 2645
This Japanese style nightclub with a tatami floors, mirrored walls, bamboos, lights and lanterns is the perfect spot for a fun night out. Great music from international djs makes for a good playlist no matter what day you go.
Via Molino delle Armi, 16, 20123 Milano MI, Italy | +39 342 797 6858
For fans of house music only. Personally, we’re more hip hop girls ourselves but it’s always nice to switch things up now and again. Warning: do not go dresses up in your typical dress/heel Saturday night attire – this place is all about the low key chilled vibe.
Torre Branca, Via Luigi Camoens, 20121 Milano MI, Italy | +39 02 311817
The early evening tradition of aperitivo is sacred in Milan and starting your night off with a drink at Cavalli Club is never a bad idea. We don’t recommend spending your entire night there but it definitely is a place to stop by for a drink, especially if you’ve never been before.