I envisioned a more industrial, sprawling, even dirty, city, but was happily surprised at the almost quaint feel of certain areas, particularly the cobblestoned, old-Europe feel of the Brera neighborhood. The Duomo was far more impressive, the fashion presence less intimidating and the cemetery delightfully surprising (don’t think me morbid, but it was the highlight of this trip). It is a large city, so covering it on foot is not as engaging as, say, Paris, but the underground system is extensive and easy to use. Even in February, in rain and cold, the Duomo and “Golden Triangle” fashion and shopping areas were overrun with tourists (mea culpa); I hate to imagine fighting through the crowds in the heat of summer. That said, in all, the food choices, history, architecture, museums and sheer beauty of the old town make it a place worth seeing- Fashion Week or no.
The Brera Neighborhood
When you go, see the fashion district if you must (keep your eye out for the square manhole covers designed by various fashion house designers), take a spin around (and up) the Duomo, the Piazza Reale and the old town area, but don’t miss the Brera neighborhood. While I am sure it is full of shoppers and diners in the summer, they are there for good reason: it has character.
Brera is a beautiful neighborhood, replete with flower boxes under the windows- even on the top floors of the olive green and mustard yellow façades (don’t forget to look up), cobblestones, and shop windows, which will make you stop in your tracks for their creativity.
Il Duomo
The intricate design of this building’s silhouette is quite striking, as is the carving, which is often so detailed it is hard to believe it is done in a medium as unforgiving as stone. How did they carve that arch without it collapsing? There are gargoyle-like faces decorating every ledge, and closer to the ground are fist-size faces peering down at us, each its own, moody character. Each of the saints’ likenesses carved along the roof have beautiful scenes in stone below them- all unique. These, along with several beautiful statues adorning the interior rings of the roof, can only be seen by those lucky enough to be on the rooftop. So do go up! And don’t miss walking around the entire roof, not just the torso. The views of the mountains, stretched out beyond the tops of the city- red domes interspersed with modern constructions, is worth the climb (and the 7 Euros).
The inside is much darker, but the stained glass windows, the organ, the floors, and the wood carvings are works of art to be revered. In order to photograph, you will need to purchase a photography pass. Otherwise, entrance is free.
Cimitero Monumentale
Don't think it morbid, but I contend that this cemetery is one of the most extraordinary places in Milan. Put it on your list as a must-see if you are interested in sculpture, history and some truly breathtaking architecture. Only a mile from the city center, it is an easy walk. And don't forget your camera. Strolling through this place will make you feel as if you have entered into an intimate relationship with the city. Plus, it's outside, so no stuffy museum tour. And did I mention it's free?
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II I must preface this preamble by qualifying my tastes a bit. I like the homey, the quaint (but not cutesy), the inviting, dimly lit, brick-walled, unfussy but tastefully considered decor. I don’t like fluorescence or the too-brightly lit. I like a touch of character and quirk. No waiters with attitude, soft-talkers or lingerers. A genuine welcome and an appreciation for the craft are the essence of a good restaurant. Buffets- no thank you. I love exploring new towns with the aim of picking my lunch spot. Ranch Roberta Ristorante So, it was not only a surprise but also a lesson-to-self to have the best pasta dish I have ever eaten at the restaurant across the street from my hotel- in a too-brightly lit room with outdated décor. But once we walked in to Ranch Roberta, we were welcomed with wide grins, a bar of fresh seafood on ice, and a wood-fired pizza oven. Even the appetizer buffet was filled with fresh, beautiful salads and foodstuffs. We treated ourselves to an enormous plateful of prosciutto and a fresh ball of mozzerella bigger than my fist. I had a cream fetuccine dish that gave me a “Harry Met Sally“ moment. I loved that the waiter suggested a substitution of their freshest pasta, which he served and then left us alone to enjoy. It was casual, unrefined, and an absolutely wonderful experience, which, even though outside of the city center, I would seek out again. Eataly At the North end of the Brera neighborhood, on a bright pedestrian square, lies Eataly. This place is a mini trip through Italy without ever leaving Milan. Forgive them the name and go in. You will find yourself in an open-plan marketplace full of some of the most beautiful food and packaging to be found. I'm not sure even Paris has anything on this place. It contains four floors of delectable foodstuffs, each devoted to a different food segment: fresh produce, wine, fish, cheese, charcuterie, chocolate, and, of course, pasta... All so beautifully displayed you won’t be able to resist pulling out your camera. Each floor sports a restaurant of the same theme. Grab a quick sandwich or gelato, or sit elbow to elbow with the business folks having lunch. I could have spent all morning in here!
I had heard so much about the shopping that this place deserved a peek. This is a “shopping Emporium”- well, really, a department store, complete with perfume sprayers at the entrance (at least they ask before squirting). If you had a week, it might be fun to peruse some of the Italian housewares and clothing, but I had more important things to do, like eat. And find some gifts to bring home. So to the rooftop I headed (up six floors of escalators). There is a sushi bar, sandwich shop and 3 or 4 other restaurants with rooftop access overlooking the Duomo. As long as you don’t mind sitting amongst your fellow tourists, it is an absolutely lovely place for a glass of wine and a Margharita pizza. On the way out, grab some Italian nougat and chocolate for your friends back home.
Milan Hotels
Château Monfort, a luxurious five-star hotel in Milan, is a masterpiece of elegance and imagination housed in a historic building from the 1900s, designed by the renowned architect Paolo Mezzanotte. Since its opening in January 2012, the hotel has enchanted guests with its fairy tale-inspired décor, drawing on the magic of famous operas and ballets. The 2016 renovation has perfected the experience, offering 77 exquisitely designed rooms, including 5 suites and 3 junior suites, each a whimsical blend of sophisticated retro style and modern luxury. Guests can revel in themed rooms that evoke fantastical worlds, such as the Superior Rooms, which feature fine woods, hidden owl eyes, and antique travel trunks. For those seeking romance, the attic suites offer skylights that open to the night sky, perfect for stargazing. Château Monfort’s Restaurant Rubacuori, with its artful cuisine, transports diners into a unique fairy tale, while the Bar Lounge Mezzanotte adds a touch of enchantment with its secret recipes and Champagne aromas. The hotel’s wine cellar, La Cella di Bacco, offers an elegant setting for tastings and private events, making Château Monfort a true haven for those seeking an unparalleled, dreamlike stay in Milan.
Perks when booked through Viewfinder:
Upgrade to next room category, based upon availability at check-in
Complimentary welcome drink per guest, per stay
Welcome treat in room on arrival
Complimentary daily breakfast (max 2 guests)
Galleria Vik Milano is where art and luxury seamlessly intertwine, making an unforgettable impression from the moment you arrive. This boutique hotel, set within the heart of Milan’s iconic Galleria, offers more than just a place to stay—it’s an immersive experience where each room and suite is a unique masterpiece crafted by individual artists. From abstract installations to vibrant pop art, and even Renaissance-inspired frescoes, the hotel’s artistic flair is evident throughout. The interiors pay homage to heritage with stucco Veneziano and polished parquet floors that lead you to Vikissimo, the hotel’s flagship restaurant. Here, guests dine amidst an architecturally stunning space that offers panoramic views of the Galleria, making it an ideal setting for breakfast, lunch, or a sunset dinner. For those seeking a more casual yet equally impressive dining experience, I Dodici Gatti Pizzeria, perched on the rooftops, serves some of Milan’s finest wood-fired pizzas with a side of breathtaking city views. And if you’re curious about the pizzeria’s name, just ask—the tale of Milan’s legendary 12 cats is as charming as the setting itself.
Perks when booked through Viewfinder:
A credit worth $50-$100 (USD) per room, per stay to be spent only on extras such as F&B or Spa, only on property and during the stay
Daily Continental breakfast for two people
Room upgrade to next room category, subject to availability at the time of check-in
Early check-in, subject to availability at the time of check-in
Late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary WIFI
In Milan's fashion and design district, Hotel Magna Pars Suites Milano offers a refined blend of contemporary luxury and industrial chic. Once a perfume factory, this all-suite hotel now features sleek interiors with a modern mix of steel, glass, and beautifully crafted wood floors, creating a spacious and minimalist atmosphere. The design is elevated by elegant cream and white furnishings, providing a sophisticated backdrop for the hotel’s amenities, which include a fine dining restaurant, a gym and spa, a stylish cocktail bar, a roof deck with city views, and a well-curated library.
Perks when booked through Viewfinder:
A credit worth $50-$100 (USD) per room, per stay to be spent only on extras such as F&B or Spa, only on property and during the stay
Daily Continental breakfast for two people
Room upgrade to next room category, subject to availability at the time of check-in
Early check-in, subject to availability at the time of check-in
Late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary WIFI
Viewfinder Travel company is a boutique travel agency that designs unique, life enhancing experiences, and provides exceptional service. Whether you are in search of cultural sustenance, a relaxing island unwind, a gourmet escape, a picturesque countryside or the invigoration of a city, Viewfinder Travel will find your recipe for travel magic. We are reliable, detail-oriented, and have a flare for finding the beautiful, off the beaten path, “boutique” experiences so you can put your efforts into finding the fun and not into the logistics.
Our trips are curated with love, as if they were our own. Let our experience inform your discovery!
Copyright 2024 Viewfinder Travel
©HolmanPhotography, LLC
#MilanTravel #VisitMilan #MilanFashionWeek #MilanArchitecture #DuomoMilan #BreraNeighborhood #CimiteroMonumentale #GalleriaVittorioEmanuele #ExploreMilan #MilanHistory #ItalianArchitecture #FashionDistrictMilan #MilanShopping #HiddenGemsMilan #LuxuryTravel #ItalianCulture #MilanArt #TopOfTheDuomo #TravelItaly #MilanRestaurants #EatalyMilan #MilanTravelGuide #ItalyAdventures #DiscoverMilan #HistoricMilan #TravelWithViewfinder #LuxuryTravelWithViewfinder #ExploreWithViewfinder #ViewfinderTravelAdventures #ViewfinderTravel #LuxuryTravelAgency #ExploreItaly
コメント