Two Days Exploring Milan, Italy

Welcome to Milan, the world’s fashion capital! Once you arrive in the city, the first thing you need to do is get a coffee. Pan Milano is a contemporary cafe and bakery in the east of the city, perfect if you’ve just arrived at Milan's Linate Airport. I would recommend trying the cinnamon and miso bun, a unique but amazing combination. Afterwards, hop on a tram, both convenient and part of the Milan experience, to the Brera district to the east. It is well-known for its artistic culture and is considered the most beautiful part of Milan. It is also home to the Gucci Art wall that spans the entirety of a building's wall. In this district, you can also grab some lunch at Princi. I would recommend the pesto pasta along with a couple slices of pizza.

As we had arrived early in the morning, our first day was super relaxed. After exploring the neighborhood where we were staying, we headed to Via Pasteria, a modern Italian restaurant next to the Arco della Pace. The bruschetta al Pomodoro del Piennolo was incredible, which I would highly recommend as well as the pasta dishes. Once finished, don’t forget to grab some gelato at the nearby traditional hole-in-the-wall gelataria, Gusto 17. I tried the tiramisu stracciatella, which was delicious.

On your second morning in Milan, head to LúBar for brunch. This quaint restaurant filled with flora and fauna has a wide menu with Sicilian flavors throughout. They offer both sweet and savory dishes alongside great coffee and flavorsome smoothies. It has a laid-back and relaxed feel, so take your time and soak up the atmosphere.

Later, make your way to Milan’s center-point, Piazza del Duomo. Start by wandering around Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping center. The architecture is breathtaking, especially if you look up. There are designer stores everywhere you turn, so for most people it will be window shopping only! After you have finished exploring, take the rooftop tour of the Duomo. These tickets are different to the general cathedral entrance but are worth it as you also get great views over the city. Take your time to observe each statute and gaze over Milan’s traditional buildings, as well as its modern city in the distance. When you’re back down on the ground, head to the famous Starbucks Reserve nearby. These are large Starbucks roasters that offer a much larger menu than the normal locations. There are only 9 in the world, so even if you’re not a massive coffee fan, it’s worth the visit.

Once you have finished your coffee, walk over to Museo del Novecento, which showcases mostly Italian twentieth-century art. It is housed in the Palazzo dell'Arengario building, which is beautiful in its own right and has large windows that offer an amazing view of the Duomo from a different angle.

In the evening, make your way to Maio restaurant, situated on the rooftop of Rinascente department store. Its ambience is accompanied by great city views, alongside traditional Italian dishes. Order a few Aperol Spritz’s and enjoy your evening.