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A weekend of cultural treasures and chic shopping in Milan

  • Peregryn travel writers
  • Jun 7
  • 9 min read
Aerial view of a cityscape with illuminated cathedral at dusk. Buildings, streets, and distant mountains visible under a clear blue sky.

Milan has long reigned supreme as a global fashion capital, its name synonymous with runway-ready sensations and high-end fashion trends. But beyond the allure of chic boutiques and designer labels, Milan offers a rich tapestry of cultural treasures waiting to be discovered.


From famous sights such as the cathedral Duomo di Milano and Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper” to hidden gems tucked away in the city’s charming neighborhoods, the city has a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveler. And with its superb transportation system and walkable streets, it's easy to navigate, meaning you can savor a Milan shopping trip in style while immersing yourself in the city's cultural riches.



Shopping in Milan: the fabulous Fashion Quadrangle

Crowd inside luxurious Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan. People walking under a grand arched glass roof, with ornate gold details.

Start in Via Montenapoleone, arguably the most prestigious and expensive Milan shopping district. You’ll find flagship stores of top designers like Gucci, Prada, Versace, Valentino, Bottega Veneta, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Fendi, as well as an array of high-end jewelers like Cartier and Harry Winston.


Zip down a side street and you’ll arrive in Via della Spiga, a bustling pedestrian-friendly street teeming with haute couture boutiques and designer jewelry shops, including brands like Gucci, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, and Sergio Rossi. A short stroll away is Via Sant'Andrea, another luxurious street with boutiques of renowned designers and a sophisticated ambiance.


Nearby Via Manzoni is home to high-fashion showrooms and elegant boutiques, blending fashion with cultural landmarks like the Museo Poldi Pezzoli and Casa del Manzoni. Bordering the eastern edge of the Fashion Quadrangle, the elegant Corso Venezia features high-fashion brands in grand palazzos, offering a mix of tradition and innovation.


Set in the heart of the city center, the majestic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a converted 19th-century glass-covered arcade. At once a historical landmark and a modern cultural beacon, this stunning shopping mall houses luxury boutiques, including Louis Vuitton, Prada, Gucci, and Versace, alongside upscale cafes and restaurants.


For those visiting Milan’s famous cathedral, the Duomo di Milano, stop for a fix of fashion at the adjoining department store Rinascente Milano Piazza Duomo, where you’ll find a selection of designer clothing, accessories and beauty products. Head to the wonderful rooftop terrace for incredible panoramic views of the city.



Alternative retail spots and Milan shopping streets

Colorful buildings reflect in a canal at sunset. People stroll along the walkway, enjoying the vibrant and lively evening atmosphere.

Aside from Milan’s legendary fashion quadrangle, you’ll also find fashion treasures in an array of lesser-known retail spots.


Corso di Porta Ticinese

Running parallel to the Giovanni Paolo II park to the south of the city, Corso di Porta Ticinese offers a more alternative and youthful vibe with small boutiques, vintage outlets, record stores, indie streetwear labels, and handcrafted jewelers. International brands like Vans can be found alongside indie favorites such as Dolly Noire and ‘size?’.


Brera District

Known for its artistic and bohemian style, Brera offers a blend of fashion boutiques, artisan shops, art galleries, and unique home decor outlets. It's an essential spot to find one-of-a-kind curios and unique souvenirs when visiting Milan.


Navigli District

Famous for its picturesque canals and vibrant nightlife, Navigli in the very center of the city is also great for quirky boutiques, thrift stores and artisan workshops. Spend the day shopping for fashion finds then take a relaxing canal boat cruise as the sun sets.


Corso Como

A peaceful pedestrian street lined with outdoor cafes, stylish restaurants and independent boutiques, Corso Como is renowned for its concept stores, a set of retail complexes that combine fashion, literature, art and design. Come for the tranquility of the day and stay for the vibrant evening, when the area is transformed into a bustling night spot.


Via Torino

The go-to destination for shoe lovers, this kilometer-long stretch is home to a selection of excellent footwear stores. From global brands like Footlocker and Dr.Martens to local brands like Mauro Leone you’ll find everything from everyday sneakers to more high-end options.



The dates to look out for

Colorful umbrellas with various patterns hang above a narrow street, bordered by yellow and white buildings. Text reads Milano Fashion Week.

If you want to do Milan like a true fashionista, you need to keep an eye out for key dates. Yes, hotel prices will soar, but if you head to the city in Fashion Week or during any other sartorial event, you have the chance to pick up exclusive entry tickets and mingle with the fabulous set. Here’s what to look out for:


Milan Fashion Week: In reality, this is a culmination of various different weeks throughout the year. Seasonally, Fashion Week takes place in spring and fall. Then there is Men’s Fashion Week. The dates change slightly every year, so stay up to date with the official website.  


In April, Milan Design Week takes place and a key part of it is Salone del Mobile, which is dedicated to the home furnishing and design sector. Make the most of the event and head to the elegant Brera design district, which hosts its own outpost, with top brands - from cars to fashion - showcasing their creativity at stores and event spaces. 



Milan’s fabulous flea markets

Outdoor antique market with framed art, statues, and a horse sculpture on display. People browse under white canopies, stone path visible.

Milan is home to a buzzing thrift store market scene where you can discover unique treasures and immerse yourself in the local culture. An intriguing counterpoint to the city’s haute-couture reputation, these vibrant hubs offer a fascinating glimpse into local life and culture. And you may even unearth a treasure or two.


Spend a Saturday browsing for locally made threads at the Via Fauchè market in Milan's northwest Bullona district. Looking for designer sneakers? Make a beeline for the stalls adjacent to the Piazza Gerusalemme. For vintage clothes, shoes and cashmere jumpers, head to stalls near Piazza Caneva.


In the southwest, the Viale Papiniano market offers amazing bargains including brand new items that are sold as surplus from boutiques and outlets. Just north of Milan’s Fashion Quadrangle, in the upmarket Brera district, you’ll find the Via San Marco Market. As it’s close to the city’s famous fashion center, the clothes are notably more expensive than in many other markets. But expect to find the most exclusive brands at a discounted price.


Milan’s original flea market, Fiera di Sinigaglia dates back to 1880. With its canalside setting on the Ripa di Porta Ticinese, it’s a picturesque place to dig for vintage clothing, books, vinyls and antiques.



Milan’s cultural treasures

The image shows Milan Cathedral at sunset with a vibrant pink and blue sky. People are walking in the plaza, with illuminated buildings around.

Aside from retail bliss, you’ll also find some remarkable things to visit in Milan, from historic galleries to legendary opera houses. 


Milan’s showpiece attraction, this majestic cathedral is an absolute must-visit for those visiting Milan. The intricate Gothic architecture is truly jaw-dropping, both inside and out. Ascend to the rooftop and you’ll be treated to a breathtaking panorama of the city.  


Often referred to by locals as “Milan’s drawing room”, the city’s impressive 19th-century glass-domed arcade is so much more than a shopping destination. You’ll be struck by the intricacy of its architecture and mosaic floors, as well as the historical significance of this stunning 19th-century arcade.


Take a journey through Milan's history at this magnificent medieval castle. Dating back to the 15th Century, it was originally constructed as a military structure and a residence for Italian dukes. Today, it’s home to some of the city’s best museums, including the Museum of Ancient Art and the Pinacoteca di Brera art gallery... 


A haven for art lovers, Pinacoteca di Brera is one of Italy's most important art galleries. You’ll find important works by legendary artists such as Raphael, Caravaggio, Mantegna and Bellini. 


One of the most interesting facts about Milan is that it’s home to one of the world’s most iconic masterpieces, housed in its own museum. To witness Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper up close is a truly unforgettable experience – be sure to book in advance, weeks or even months ahead. 



Aperitivo time

No trip to Milan is complete without experiencing the beloved tradition of the aperitivo. As the sun sets on the city, join Milanese crowds for a pre-dinner drink and a selection of local delicacies. It’s the perfect way to unwind and savor the evening after a day of sightseeing and shopping.


Here are some of the best aperitivo places in town.


Crowd gathered outside Bar Basso under red neon sign at night. The building features ornate architecture, creating a lively atmosphere.

A favorite with locals and visitors alike, Bar Basso’s pink decor and neon lighting give it a glorious vintage glamour. It’s been serving up fabulous cocktails, including the famous Negroni Sbagliato, since the 1950s.








Elegant bar with wooden counter, ornate mirror, and colorful murals. Bottles are neatly arranged; tiled floor enhances the classic ambiance.

A popular aperitivo place for more than a century, you’ll find Camparino in the dazzling Victorian arcade Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Bowtied bartenders, a wood-panelled bar and the black and white checkered floor give it a classic feel. 





Close-up of a row of wine bottles on a wooden shelf, labels visible. Soft lighting creates a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere.




An excellent old-school wine bar, La Coloniale offers sublime northern Italy reds and delicious champagne, together with traditional Milanese cheeseboards and cold cuts.





Wooden table with sliced meats, bread, wine bottles, and glasses in an outdoor setting. Brick wall and greenery in the background. Cozy ambiance.





Renowned for its large selection of natural wines, this plush aperitivo bar is nestled in the heart of the upscale Brera neighborhood. The wonderfully rustic outdoor terrace beautifully evokes the Italian ambiance.




Bottles of wine line a wooden bar counter under hanging glasses with red lighting. The background features framed art on beige walls.





A famous Milanese spot where artists, writers and painters would meet, Minerale features minimalist interiors and a great selection of natural wines. Come for the history, stay for the atmosphere and excellent wine, cheese and cold cuts.




Wicker chairs with red cushions are arranged around wooden tables in a sunlit patio with lush green plants. A relaxed and inviting mood.




If you’re looking for a high-end aperitivo experience, head to this luxury five-star hotel. You’ll have to pay a premium, but exquisite food and wine, elegant, chic decor and an impossibly cool crowd make it worth every penny. 




A well-stocked bar with shelves of liquor bottles and glasses, counter with stools, espresso machine, and a potted plant in a cozy setting.





Set on the third story of a townhouse in the Quadronno neighborhood, this elegant bar serves classic cocktails with a twist, all at an affordable price. Try the house G&T, made with real cucumbers and cracked black pepper. 









Alla Milanese food – what to eat in Milan

Milan is not just a fashion capital –  it's also an excellent culinary destination with a rich and diverse food scene. From traditional Milanese dishes to innovative Michelin-starred creations, the city offers an epicurean adventure for every palate.


There are many great restaurants in Milan – here are just a few:


Elegant restaurant interior with wooden long table, gray chairs, and neatly set glassware. Warm lighting, patterned wall, bar in background.

A spin-off of Milan’s three-Michelin-starred Da Vittorio, you’ll find this dazzling restaurant at the top of one of Italy’s tallest skyscrapers in the vibrant City Life district. The paccheri pasta is legendary among the locals. 



Street view of a stone building with two arched entries, one open, displaying wine bottles inside. Cobblestone pavement in foreground.







Don’t be fooled by the old-school Italian dining room decor – this bistro is sensational, with a menu that mixes taste-bud-tingling fusions such as cod and coconut with classic Milanese dishes like risotto.  




Cozy cafe with beige seating and wooden tables. Framed photos on brown walls, modern white lamp above, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.






One of the best, up-and-coming cool restaurants in Milan, this Navigli-set eaterie puts an inventive twist on traditional dishes. The tasting menus are sensational, with all manner of exciting, unexpected surprises, including rigatoni tossed in miso. 


Pizza with prosciutto, basil, and sprig of rosemary on a white tablecloth with candles and wine bottle in the background.






Set on a bustling cobblestone street in the Brera district, this casual, family-friendly spot serves classic Milanese dishes and southern Italian stapes, from cotoletta veal cutlets and risotto to Sicilian swordfish and classic Neapolitan pizza.




Modern restaurant interior with black tables, chairs, green plants, and a large wine rack. Neutral tones and industrial decor create a cozy ambiance.




Renowned chef Cesare Battista serves up a contemporary take on Milanese cuisine at this fantastic restaurant housed in a converted cinema. Don’t miss the incredible risotto alla Milanese con ossobuco, veal shank risotto.









Best places to stay in Milan

Milan is a city where you can go glam with accommodation like the fashion set does. Whether you’re looking to indulge in the lap of luxury at one of the city’s historic hotels or prefer the allure of one of the city’s chic boutiques, there’s a variety of fabulous accommodations to cater to all tastes.   


Here’s a selection of some of the best hotels in Milan:


Elegant building with a green roof at sunset. Open terrace with chairs visible. Pink and blue sky creates a calm, serene atmosphere.


A luxurious hotel housed in a former 1950s tobacco factory, Casa Cipriani offers a blend of old-world charm and modern elegance. Plush fern green velvets, dark mahogany finishes and soft walnut accents bring old-school flair, while the black and white marble bathrooms, dedicated butler service and top-floor cocktail lounge are Milan at its pure indulgent best. 




Elegant room with white sofas, a round coffee table, and dining set. Wood accents, green cushions, and framed art create a cozy atmosphere.


Housed within a renovated baroque religious college in the heart of Milan’s main shopping district, Portrait Milano offers stunning apartments decked out cream, walnut and red velvet tones and Art Deco designs. The lush courtyard is one of the city’s premier destinations for an early evening aperitivo.



Modern living room with beige sofa and armchairs, glass coffee table, shelves with decor. Large windows show cityscape. Bright, cozy ambiance.




Casa Baglioni is a 5-star hotel located in the heart of Milan's fashion district. It offers luxurious accommodations and a range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and a rooftop terrace with stunning city views.



Modern white building with large windows, surrounded by lush green trees and plants. Clear blue sky in the background, with a calm atmosphere.







A favorite with Milan’s fashionista crowd, this opulent hotel is located in the heart of the famous Milan shopping district, the Fashion Quadrangle. Impossibly stylish interiors feature black marble and Burmese teak while the shaded gardens are a popular aperitivo spot with the local glitterati. 



Luxurious indoor pool with ornate murals and a vaulted ceiling. Red lounge chairs accent the room, offering a relaxing, opulent atmosphere.




One of Milan’s best hotels, this luxurious five-star hotel is known for its blend of classic Italian elegance and Art Deco stylings. Don’t miss the state-of-the-art 10th-floor fitness center featuring sweeping views across Milan.




Modern glass-walled sunroom with blue sofa, green trunk, and white planters. Skylight and neutral tones create a bright, airy atmosphere.





Aethos Milan is a boutique hotel and members' club in the vibrant Navigli district, a boutique hotel and members' club in the vibrant Navigli district.




Modern interior with abstract art and grey walls. A cozy seating area has green chairs and cushions. Warm lighting and an open book create a relaxed vibe.






Set in the heart of the city, this boutique hotel offers affordable luxury, with a seamless blend of modern design and historical elements, given that it's housed in a 19th-century building. Caramel, mocha and classic green tones give it an effortless elegance, while its location on a quiet, terraced street in the hip Porta Volta district makes it the perfect place for post-shopping R&R.






Travel to Milan: Italy’s most fashionable city

Yellow tram passes through a historic arch in a sunny urban setting. Trees line the street, with a prominent red sign on the right.

A city where high fashion and historical elegance intertwine, Milan is the perfect place to indulge in chic shopping and cultural treasures. From roaming the streets of the city’s famed Fashion Quadrangle to visiting breathtaking cultural landmarks like the Duomo di Milano and Leonardo da Vinci's “The Last Supper”, a world of wonders awaits on your unforgettable Milanese adventure.

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