EAT
Seta is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant that serves fine-dining Italian dishes with a modern twist; Iyo offers creative Japanese dishes in an elegant setting; and Langosteria Café Milano is great for seafood. If you’re in the mood for true Milanese-style cuisine, head to Al Garghet restaurant. For pizza, I recommend Le Specialità that does a wonderful thin crust. Finally, Italy is famous for its coffee, and its pastries aren’t too shabby either. Marchesi 1824 is a Milanese institution synonymous with excellent pastry and chocolate – don’t miss the panettone (sweet bread).
DRINK
If you like your apéritif with a side of panoramas, go to Ceresio 7. But if you prefer to take your tipple with your feet planted firmly on the ground, I recommend Fashion Café, N’Ombra de Vin, Radetzky or Mag Cafè, all of which are extremely lively and hip. For something more refined, Armani/Bamboo Bar is an elegant spot with great views of the city. For an experience that’s more akin to a music hall or jazz club, I suggest Zog and Santeria.
EXPLORE
Stop by the Porta Nuova and CityLife districts; immerse yourself in art while wandering through the streets of Brera; get a breath of fresh air at Sempione Park; and head to the famous Duomo di Milano cathedral. Football fans can take in the sporting action at the San Siro stadium, while art lovers should drop by the Museo del Novecento (also known as Museo del ’900) or attend an opera performance at Teatro alla Scala.
SHOP
The best places for shopping are La Rinascente and Excelsior located in Corso Vittorio Emanuele II near the Duomo di Milano, where you can find offerings by top luxury brands. If smaller fashion boutiques are more your thing, Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga have what you’re looking for.
TIPS
The easiest way to get around is via subway. A day pass costs €4.50 (S$7) and it’ll take you virtually anywhere in the city. A jaunt out of Milan can also yield delightful surprises – I recommend visiting Lake Como or Portofino.
Illustration by Andrea Manzati
Singapore Airlines flies to Milan daily. To book a flight, visit singaporeair.com
SEE ALSO: 5 local spots worth visiting in Milan
This article was originally published in the February 2019 issue of SilverKris magazine