Milan, a name synonymous with Mecca in the world of fashion and haute couture. The whole planet is flocking there for shopping. But Milan has much more to offer as well, a stay in one of the biggest Italian cities is enough to realize it. The kind of dream destination for a long weekend, a few hours' flight from France, to visit a dynamic and festive city.
An important city for a long time
The capital of Lombardy is racing ahead of the most dynamic Italian cities, from an economic and cultural point of view. It must be said that the city of Milan has a long history, having notably welcomed painters such as Leonardo da Vinci and Caravaggio. Modernized by the unification of Italy in 1870, Milan has always known how to maintain a leadership in the country.
Bosco Verticale in Milan, Italy
Milan: a global city
“Global city”, like Paris, New York or Hong Kong, Milan has a large hotel base. All categories of accommodation are represented, so backpackers will be happy to know that there are many budget hotels in the city center. However, the many events that take place there, including “Fashion week”, require you to prepare your stay well, and not to book your room at the last minute!
The Vittorio Emmanuelle II gallery in Milan
Enjoy a cultural stay
Even if Milan is not Florence or Venice, it has a remarkable heritage. At the top, the Duomo, one of the tallest cathedrals in the world - the spire rises to 108 meters - has spanned the centuries and today mixes several influences, from Gothic to neoclassical, including baroque. The XNUMXth century also saw the construction in Milan of the La Scala opera theater. A very famous, magnificent room, which notably hosted the Italian composer Verdi, author of La Traviata et Aïda.
Milan cathedral
Milan under the sign of shopping
Fashion therefore occupies a prominent place in Milanese life. And many visitors come here to enjoy a magnificent place dedicated to shopping: the Vittorio Emmanuelle II gallery. Dating from the XNUMXth century, it joins two of the most important squares in Milan and houses a large number of stores: luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, or the boutiques of major international brands. Very popular in the hearts of the inhabitants, the gallery also brings together several restaurants and cafes, antique shops ...
The Vittorio Emmanuelle II gallery in Milan
Green weekend around Milan
The region around Milan is also home to beautiful lakes, the two best known of which are Lake Como and Lake Maggiore. Their shores welcome every year foreign visitors on vacation and Italians who come for the weekend.
Menaggio on Lake Como, Italy
Trendy bars and restaurants
Milan also gives pride of place to recognized Italian know-how: gastronomy. Pizza and pasta are obviously in the spotlight, but the restaurants offer many other typical dishes such as the Milanese schnitzel. The "aperetivo" is also a specialty of the city. Many bars are now putting it on their menu: it is an all-you-can-eat buffet served between 18 and 21 p.m. and accompanied by a cocktail. This sympathetic and convivial formula allows you to dine inexpensively, before for example going out to frequent one of the many nightclubs in the city.
Restaurants and bars along the Grand Canal in Milan
Pratical information
Tourist Office : IAT - Tourist Information and Reception Office, Piazza Duomo 19 / A.
Also visit the website of the tourist office
Getting to Milan: Compare flight prices to get the best rates. Do not hesitate to complete your research by also comparing the prices of the hotels.
Getting around Milan: Although walking is the most efficient way to explore the city center, there is an extensive public transport network in Milan. Three metro lines provide efficient travel. In addition, a large number of bus lines crisscross the city from 6 am to midnight each day. Finally, there are transport tickets valid for two days and usable throughout the Milan network. Ideal for a weekend.
