Sadly, I can’t say I am a local or an even an ‘insider’ when it comes to Milan. However, it is one of my favourite cities, especially for a quick getaway. Whether visiting our offices or just heading there with friends for the weekend, it’s the perfect destination that is always teeming with energy. Irrepressible Italian glamour, incredible architecture and not forgetting the gastronomic delights – it’s one of my favourite places in the world.
STAY…
For a central location, perfect for a short-stay business trip, I head to the Galleria Vik in the heart of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This super-stylish design hotel really is a must stay. Each room has a striking, unique design – think palatial furnishings, mosaics and artistry from the past and present, not to mention a short walk from that beautiful ‘wedding cake’ of a church – the Duomo. Just make sure to get a room with a view of the Galleria.
Slightly further out from the tourist centre, (which can also be nice) and nearer to the trendy Brera design district – is the Hotel VIU. This is worth a visit for the rooftop pool alone, I love the lively cocktail bar and 360-degree view of Milano!
DO…
For beautifully designed art objects and unique gifts, 10 CORSO COMO is an absolute must.
And another gorgeous boutique to visit with the most current and a curated selection of cutting edge designers is Antonia.
To see contemporary art on a monumental scale, visit Pirelli Hangar Bicocca. Free to visit, the permanent exhibition by Anselm Kiefer is immense.
The Isola area and vertical forest, ‘Bosco Verticale' is another must-see. An outstanding piece of architecture, incorporating a modern green space covering the exterior of the residential towers. Each season brings a new palette and dimension to the build.
Also worth a visit is the Brera Design District. You can stroll through the luxury antique and design shops, as well as a host of galleries, before stopping for a coffee at the elegant Caffè Fernanda in between exhibitions.
No trip to Milan would be complete without a visit to Teatro alla Scala for that truly authentic opera experience. Like the city itself, it really is unforgettable.
EAT…
There are so many incredible options when it comes to eating in Milan! Start the day with breakfast in Bar Luce at Fondazione Prada. Designed by Wes Anderson, you feel like you’ve just stepped into one his films, the café brings 50/60s Italy to life; formica furniture and candy pastel tones, old fashioned jars of sweets and delicious coffee – of course!
For lunch, try Bacaro Montenapoleone. The most intimate of courtyard dining - this is a hidden gem with its homemade pasta and cloud-like tiramisu – perfecto!
In need of an afternoon sweet treat (even after that tiramisu!)? Stop off at Pasticceria Marchesi 1824, in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. Super chic, picture-perfect pastries and cakes – it’s all (almost) too good to eat!
I really love the Navigli district. It has an historic, ‘old town’ feel but is still packed and buzzy on a summer’s evening. The perfect place for ‘aperitivo hour’ before dinner is one of its hidden restaurants tucked away in the side streets. It’s a great place to watch the world go by after a busy day’s sightseeing!
Bang in the heart of the city is Risoelatte with its unique 60s-style interior and menu. Nostalgic, simple, home-cooked meals – it brings me straight back to the kitchen of my Swiss grandmother!
TAKE…
Don’t forget how sweltering Milan/Italy can get in the summer months. Make sure to pack free-flowing fabrics: palazzo pants and a white cami or tailored city shorts are perfect.
I’ll be wearing my organic cotton poplin dress by Iris & Ink with some minimalist black sandals and very large Prada (of course) sunglasses!
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