Milan: A Mini Guide
Milano
Just like in my little guide to Paris, I’m not claiming to be an authority on what to do in Milan as I’m a total beginner, but thought I’d share the gems we found on our weekend away in the hope it’ll help introduce you to the city if you’re planning a trip!
Expect gelato and panzerotti…
Somewhere to stay
First things first – where to stay in Milan! Lucy and I spent ages looking for a suitable hotel, but things were pretty last minute, so we tried our luck on Airbnb. If you’re not already familiar with the concept, it’s a site where you can rent a room or an apartment owned by somebody else in your city of choice.
Miguel and I used it last year when we stayed in New York, and I was excited to give it another shot.
I came across this beautiful apartment owned by sisters Ludovica and Giulia, and the price was far better than we’d get in a hotel.
They had told us on our first night they were hosting a house party – this didn’t bother us one bit – we simply put on our glad rags and joined in, making new friends and getting recommendations from the locals! I wouldn’t want to experience the city any other way – it was amazing living in the apartment and made for such an authentic experience.
Shopping
Milan is one of the fashion capitals of the world, so of course, the shopping is going to be pretty damn good. You’ll spot Prada and Gucci everywhere, and if you’re in the market for designer you’ll want to head straight to Via Montenapoleone. I spent far too long crying over all the Miu Miu I couldn’t afford.
If you prefer smaller independent boutiques and vintage, head to Corso di Porta Ticinese!
202
Okay, so burgers aren’t an Italian delicacy, but we were told we HAD to check out 202, just around the corner from out apartment. Anyway, I feel it’s my personal mission to make my way round the best burgers in the world ; )
The chips in this place are insanely good, and the burger wasn’t half bad either. A big thumbs up from us!
Corso di Porta Ticinese, 6
Duomo di Milano
The Duomo is at the top of anyone’s list when visiting Milan, and with good reason. The building is beautiful, and even more breathtaking from the inside.
You can take a trip to the roof to look out over the city, too. This costs €12 if you go up in the lift and €7 if you feel like hiking up 250 steps on a tight staircase. Guess which we picked? Yup. And I was in platform boots. Still, a great leg workout ; )
Luini
This is probably some sort of Italian crime, but I’d never heard of panzerotti before being told that we just had to visit Luini one lunchtime.
You’ll recognise it from the two queues that stretch down the road and the security on the door. Panzerotti at Luini is a serious business!
After queuing for about 20 minutes we finally got our hands on the sweet fried dough, full of tomato and mozzarella. I immediately wanted another as soon as I was finished!
Via Santa Radegonda, 16
Gelato
There seems to be a bit of debate about the best gelato in the city. We were told by our new pals that we should head to Grom (they have a few locations across the city) – but since I’ve had lots of you comment that Cioccolati Italiani, opposite the famous Luini, is in fact the best to pick it up.
My chocolate ice cream from Grom was some of the best I’ve had, so I’m impressed there is somewhere even better!
Pinacoteca di Brera
Both times I’ve been to this art gallery, I’ve never actually been able to make it inside! The first time was because of a quick change of plan, and this time I wanted to use the beautiful courtyard to shoot some pictures before we explored the rest of the area.
Even though I’ve not been inside, it comes highly recommended from the people we met, so thought I’d include it for you to add to you to-do list!
Via Brera, 28
Brera
Brera has been called the “Milanese Montmartre”, and is an amazing historic and artistic quarter of the city. Here you’ll find narrow streets, markets, restaurants and beautiful buildings.
This area has a slightly different character from the centre, and we could have easily spent ages there. It’s walkable from the city centre, so make sure you look it up!
Brera
Di Viole Di Liquirizia
I’m cheating slightly as the picture above wasn’t from the exact little cafe that I’m talking about, but I’m sure you’ll forgive me ; )
Di Viole Di Liquirizia is a wonderful little pasticceria in Brera, and came as a welcome treat after a day on our feet. Lucy ordered cioccolata calda (hot chocolate) and a pistacchio cupcake that tasted like a dream, whilst I sipped on tea.
It’s only little, but worth the wait for a table!
Via Madonnina, 10
Zerodue
This was totally lazy of us, but we decided to check out the restaurant directly next to the burger place mentioned above. They share the same owner, so we knew we’d be in for a treat, and once again, it came highly recommended!
Zerodue serves authentic Italian food, including traditional Milanese dishes such as veal and risotto. Being the picky eater than I am, they were totally happy to create something a little simpler for me (honestly, I’m like a child!), whilst Lucy chowed down on ravioli.
Not to mention, the place is totally beautiful. Definitely one for the ol’ Instagram.
Corso di Porta Ticinese, 6
Navigli
This canal-covered area seems the place to be on an evening. The bars there are buzzing with people at Aperitivo, drinking wine with buffet of antipasti.
We were told by our new Airbnb pals that this is how most young people spend time with their friends, so if you’re in a group or looking to make new friends (we found everyone really approachable and up for a chat) then head out here!
Navigli
Ti Amo
That’s all for this trip, but I’d love to hear any of your tips on the city too! Until next time, Milano! x
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