The Capital of Lombardy…
The most important city in northern Italy, Milan stands at the centre of the Padana Plain at the foot of the Alps and the river Po, and between the Adda and the Ticino rivers. A financial and economic capital as well as major political and culture centre, it is the second most populated city in Italy. Milan is a hub of European industry, with its concentration of major Italian companies. Enjoying a favourable geographic location, Milan is a communications centre of great importance, well-connected by, air, train and road both nationally and internationally. It is a central point for the Italian motorway system, with fast road links Venice, Bologna, Roma, Naples, Genoa and Turin.

Discovering Milan!
Milan tourist highlights begin with the superb, lustrous white Duomo. This colossal Gothic cathedral took 500 years to complete, and reflects the change of fashion in a fantastic fusion of architectural styles. A trip out the roof is an unmissable experience; you can sunbathe among the marble pinnacles and enjoy a spectacular view as far as the Alps. Next to Piazza of Duomo is the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, an elegant nineteenth century glass-covered shopping arcade, where you can have a coffee while watching the stylish Milanese go by (rub your feet on the genitals of the bull in the central mosaic for good luck!). A tragic story is attached to the Galleria; the architect Giuseppe Mengoni died the day before it was opened, falling from the roof. Other notable sights of Milan include Leonardo’s Last Supper, in the church of “Santa Maria delle Grazie” (you must book in advance), the row of Roman columns outside the church of San Lorenzo and the mighty “Castello Sforzesco”. As well as a gentle, grassy courtyard where you can rest, this business-like fortress now contains a number of museums, one of which (the Museo d’Arte Antica) contains Michaelangelo’s strange last work, Rondanini Pietà, which he worked on for nine years without completing.

Unmissable Shopping
Milan is recognized worldwide as the fashion Italian capital, and you will easily understand why. For designer shopping the best area is the Quadrilatero, around Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga. For an interesting stroll, try the Navigli, the fascinating regenerated canal district, or the Brera, a picturesque quarter with a trendy, arty vibe. These last two are also good areas for going out at night.