Landmarks
Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral) took nearly six centuries to complete and it's fair to say that all who witness it would agree that it was worth the wait. Construction of this Italian Gothic masterpiece began in 1386 and finished in 1965. Adorned by more than 2,500 statues, the craftsmanship is apparent in every nook and cranny of the incredible stonework. Climb to the terraced roof and from this lofty position you'll have spectacular views of the city below.
A ten-minute walk from the Cathedral brings you to Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore (Church of Saint Maurice), a Renaissance-Baroque church built in 1518. Just to see the nun's chapel is worth the visit alone. Its walls are covered with glorious 16th-century frescoes, with St Luke, by Vincenzo Foppa, a particular highlight.
Close by is Santa Maria delle Grazie (Holy Mary of Grace), a church that contains the masterpiece by Leonardo da Vinci, the iconic The Last Supper.
I Rossoneri e I Nerazzurri (The Red and the Blacks and the Black and the Blues)
Come the football season, supporters of either AC Milan or Internazionale head to the city's 80,000-capacity stadium. It is either known as the San Siro – when Milan are at home – or Stadio Giuseppe Meazza – when Inter play their home games. And when the footballing behemoths meet in the Derby della Madonnina, the noise and spectacle is something to behold.
Shop in style
Milan's haute couture hotspots can be found at Via della Spiga, Via Manzoni, Via Sant'Andrea and Via Montenapoleone. Within these streets you'll discover everything from Armani, Dolce & Gabbana and Gianni Versace, to Prada, Louis Vuitton and Bottega Veneta. Even if you're not looking to buy, the opportunity to witness the latest season of clothes is an experience in itself. And for the sublime architecture and shops of the world's oldest shopping centre, head to Gallerie Vittorio Emanuele II, which opened in 1877. Not only will you have access to a huge selection of shops on four storeys, you'll do it in elegant and luxurious surroundings that transcend the usual retail experience.
Eating and drinking in Milan
This being Italy, it's really not very hard to find great places to dine. Nerino Dieci Trattoria is a very popular restaurant that doesn't cost the earth and it's feted for its food, atmosphere and service. For top Japanese cuisine, IYO is well worth your attention and whether you have sushi and saké or Kobe beef and lobster rolls, you're sure to find something to delight your taste buds.
