About the region
Travel to Milan
Milan is a vibrant city located in northern Italy and is known for its rich cultural heritage, world-famous fashion industry, and stunning architecture. The city is home to many famous landmarks such as the iconic Milan Cathedral, the historic Sforza Castle, and the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade. Visitors can also enjoy delicious Italian cuisine, explore museums and art galleries, and take a stroll through the picturesque Brera district. Milan is an excellent destination for shopping and nightlife, with plenty of trendy bars, clubs, and designer boutiques. Don't forget to try some of the local specialties like risotto alla milanese and panettone during your stay!
Getting to Milan
Milan can be easily accessed by plane, train, or car. There are two major airports, Milan Malpensa and Milan Linate, both offering frequent international and domestic flights. Trains are also a popular and efficient mode of transportation, with Milan being well-connected to other major cities in Italy and Europe. Driving to Milan is also an option, with several highways leading into the city. Once in Milan, visitors can use the city's extensive public transportation system, which includes buses, trams, and a subway system, to easily navigate and explore the city.
Alternative and off the beaten track stays and experiences in Milan
Milan is a city that offers a wide range of alternative and off the beaten track stays and experiences for visitors who want to explore beyond the usual tourist destinations. Here are a few suggestions:
One great option is Cascina Cuccagna, an 18th-century farmhouse that has been converted into a cultural and social center. Located in the heart of Milan, it offers a range of activities and events, including organic food markets, workshops, and art exhibitions. Visitors can also stay in one of the farm's stylish and eco-friendly guest rooms, which are decorated with vintage and recycled materials. This unique stay provides a chance to experience a more sustainable way of living in the heart of the city.
Another off the beaten track experience is a visit to the Navigli Canal, a picturesque waterway that runs through the heart of Milan. Visitors can take a boat tour of the canal or explore the surrounding area on foot or by bike. Along the canal, there are many small shops, cafes, and bars that offer a more authentic and local experience than the touristy areas. This is a great way to get a taste of Milan's unique urban culture.
For a truly unique experience, visitors can head to Bagni Misteriosi, a hidden gem that is a public bathhouse that was built in the early 20th century. Recently restored, it has been transformed into a cultural center and event space. Visitors can take a dip in the historic pools, attend a yoga or dance class, or enjoy a drink at the bar. This is a great way to experience Milan's local culture and relax like a local.
Finally, visitors can explore Milan's thriving street art scene by taking a guided tour of the city's street art hotspots. Milan is home to many murals and graffiti artworks hidden throughout the city, offering a unique perspective on the city's art and culture. This is a great way to explore the city's hidden corners and discover its vibrant and dynamic creative scene.
These are just a few examples of the many alternative and off the beaten track stays and experiences that Milan has to offer. Whether you're interested in art, culture, food, or just exploring the city's hidden corners, there is something for everyone in Milan.
Top 10 things to do in Milan
- Visit the Duomo di Milano: The city's most famous landmark, the cathedral is an impressive Gothic structure that took over 600 years to build. Visitors can climb to the rooftop terrace for stunning views of the city.
- Explore the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: One of the world's oldest shopping malls, the Galleria is a beautiful example of Milanese architecture and houses a variety of luxury shops and restaurants.
- See Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper: This iconic mural is located in the refectory of the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie and is considered one of the most important works of art in the world.
- Wander through Brera: One of Milan's most charming neighborhoods, Brera is full of art galleries, shops, and cafes, and is a great place to explore on foot.
- Visit Sforza Castle: This impressive castle houses several museums, including an art museum with works by Michelangelo and Caravaggio, and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.
- Take in a show at La Scala: One of the world's most famous opera houses, La Scala hosts performances by some of the world's best musicians and singers.
- Explore the Navigli district: This picturesque neighborhood is home to Milan's canals and is a great place to wander, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops to explore.
- Enjoy an aperitivo: Milanese tradition dictates that before dinner, locals enjoy a drink and some snacks, and there are countless bars and cafes in the city that offer this experience.
- Visit the Pinacoteca di Brera: This art museum is one of the most important in Italy, with an impressive collection of Renaissance and Baroque art.
- Take a day trip to Lake Como: Just a short train ride from Milan, Lake Como is one of Italy's most beautiful lakes, surrounded by picturesque towns and scenic landscapes.
The climate of Milan
Milan has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters with moderate rainfall throughout the year. The city experiences four distinct seasons, with temperatures ranging from an average high of around 29°C (84°F) in July to an average low of around 1°C (34°F) in January.
Summer in Milan is typically hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F) in July and August. This is also the driest season, with occasional thunderstorms providing relief from the heat. Fall and spring are transitional seasons, with mild temperatures and some rainfall.
Winter in Milan is cold and damp, with occasional snowfall and temperatures sometimes dropping below freezing. However, it is not uncommon for sunny and mild days to occur throughout the winter months. The city is also known for its occasional "foggy days," when a dense fog can blanket the city for hours.
Overall, Milan's climate is mild and enjoyable throughout much of the year, with the exception of the hot and humid summer months and the occasionally chilly winter weather. Visitors should come prepared for a range of temperatures and weather conditions, depending on the season of their visit.