While not always held in the same esteem as Rome or Venice as a vacation destination, Milan is an active and reasonably attractive city in the far reaches of northern Italy. Alive with culture, shopping, nightlife and-of course-fashion, 'Milano' is one city where you'll never be bored.
Try to find accommodations near the Piazza del Duomo or the Via Montenapoleone, a vibrant avenue of superb shops and department stores. The Four Seasons is a can't-miss choice if your budget allows, and the Antica Locanda Solferino is a smaller, somewhat-more-affordable charmer.
It would be hard to miss the massive structure, but make sure to set aside some time for the Duomo, one of Italy's most famous cathedrals and a bastion of sculptures and artwork inside and out. Climb the stairs or take an elevator to the rooftop for even more statues and an awesome view.
For a truly authentic taste of local cuisine, head west from the Duomo to La Milanese on Via Santa Marta. This warm and unpretentious eatery serves up some of the best traditional Italian fare you'll ever savor, and the neighborhood atmosphere only adds to the experience.
Feast your eyes on da Vinci's 'The Last Supper' at the Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie. The church is a wonderful treasure in itself, but taking in one of the world's most famous paintings is an experience you won't forget.
For an intimate night of tasteful libations and charming live tunes, visit El Brellin on Vicolo della Lavandaia, a cozy piano bar with its very own mini-canal. The bar is in the Navigli district, so-named for the man-made canals dissecting the neighborhood.
You'll likely have to purchase tickets months in advance to take in a performance at the legendary La Scala, but even if you don't catch a show the eccentric museum adjoining the famous opera house is beyond worthwhile. You'll take in superb paintings, antique costumes and instruments, and even a lock of Mozart's hair.
A breathtaking glass-roofed promenade that connects La Scala to the Duomo, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is the most attractive shopping corridor you'll ever encounter. The arcade showcases a variety of elegant shops, several bars and restaurants, and a dramatic iron and glass dome at its center.
