Holidays to Milan whisk you away to one of Northern Italy’s most captivating cities. Synonymous with elegance and sophistication, Milan is among the most fashionable places across the globe, home to iconic brands such as Prada, Gucci and Versace. Here, the streets are lined with trendy boutiques filled with everything from designer clothing to vintage jewellery – every shopaholic’s dream.
Aside from being the style capital of Italy, this trendy city is also renowned for its impressive art, fascinating architecture and luxury dining scene. Stroll around the Pinacoteca di Brera and marvel at the works in the Museo Novecento. Or explore the city’s extraordinary Gothic cathedral before heading over to the Navigli district to enjoy a delicious meal. While Milan holidays are ideal for avid fashionistas, there’s something to delight everyone in this Italian powerhouse.
Fashion capital
Milan is one of the most important fashion capitals in the world, along with Paris, London and New York. It’s particularly famous for its role within the prêt-à-porter clothing category (clothes that are sold ready to wear instead of made to measure). Milanese style denotes charm and glamour, and the city is the birthplace of many of the world’s most influential brands.
Milan hosts its famous Fashion Week twice a year, where fashion lovers come to witness catwalk shows and presentations of the latest trends. The city also showcases other important fashion events, such as the Milano Unica Event. This takes place annually and allows up-and-coming designers the opportunity to showcase their work.
Naturally, there are plenty of places to shop in this vibrant city. The Quadrilatero della Moda is one of Milan’s most popular shopping streets, dotted with high-end shops and local and international brands. Corso Vittorio Emanuele II is home to other fashion stores, such as Zara and H&M.
Cultural landmarks
Milan city breaks are an opportunity to visit fascinating landmarks. This cultural haven is full of awe-inspiring buildings and monuments that tell the tale of Milan’s rich history.
Its most famous structure is the Duomo di Milano, the third-largest cathedral in the world. Complete with 135 spires and 3,400 statues, this Gothic building stands proudly in the Piazza del Duomo, the main city square of Milan. The Duomo di Milano took nearly 500 years to complete and required thousands of artists and sculptors for its construction. Here, visitors can climb up to the roof terrace to enjoy stunning panoramic views across the city.
Another of Milan’s must-visit landmarks is Santa Maria delle Grazie, a unique church and symbol of the city’s Catholic tradition. It's at this outstanding building that you can see Leonardo da Vinci’s unrivalled masterpiece, The Last Supper, displayed across the north wall.
Dazzling city
If you’re looking for places to relax after the sun sets, Milan has it all. Its Navigli district is one of the most-loved places to enjoy an evening of merriment, home to a plethora of restaurants, nightclubs and cocktail bars.
As well as a range of picture-perfect eateries and delightful waterside bars boasting a lively atmosphere, you'll find a choice of high-end restaurants, including Al Pont de Ferr and Carlo e Camilla.
To soak up the party atmosphere, head to Apollo Club, a popular venue that offers a combination of a disco space, a cocktail bar and a restaurant. Or for something truly unique, spend an evening at Nidaba Theatre, where you can enjoy live music performances. Whether you’re after a refreshing tipple or want to dance the night away, look no further than this fabulous canal district for an unforgettable night out.
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