Destination focus • May 2017
Milan: six reasons to visit
A fusion of classic elegance and edgy modern design, Italy’s industrial powerhouse has been a global tastemaker for centuries. But with cool new neighbourhoods, contemporary culture and a thriving culinary scene, there’s always something new to discover in this booming metropolis, says Milan-based journalist Tom Jenkins
Hit the markets
It may be home to iconic fashion houses, but the best way to rub shoulders with both old-school Milanese and younger fashion kids is to visit a flea market. On Saturday mornings, head to the Naviglio Grande district to browse the stall-lined canalside, while every third Sunday of the month, East Market (above) comes to life in the Design District, selling vintage and contemporary crafts, with a party atmosphere.
Go down to Chinatown
Just north of the wonderful Parco Sempione is Chinatown – Italy’s oldest and largest. Via Paolo Sarpi is the main thoroughfare, where you’ll find Ravioleria Sarpi (above), a one-window shop front serving dumplings and spicy crepes. For a sit-down meal, Wang Jiao is a good bet.
In the mood for Mudec
Milan’s Mudec (Museum of Cultures) is a must-visit attraction for culture lovers. Housed in a former factory, it has hosted exhibitions by the likes of Basquiat, Miró and Kandinsky since opening in 2015. There’s also a two-Michelin-star restaurant.
Buon appetito
Don’t hit the aperitivo too hard, as Milan has one of Italy’s most exciting contemporary dining scenes, with openings all the time. Contraste, which takes an experimental approach – be sure to order donut alla bolognese (above) – and Trippa, an offal-forward trattoria, are possibly the two most-talked about restaurants in the city right now.
Neighbourhood watch
What used to be a notoriously tough area in the north of the city, Isola now rivals hip Navigli in the south for nightlife – and is a hotbed for creative talent. The bars, restaurants and late-night hangouts will keep you going until the early hours. Head to Frida or Deus (above) for drinks, Berberé for sourdough pizzas with seasonal toppings, and the famous Blue Note for live jazz – though prepare to queue for the latter.
Fancy a dip?
Milan in the summer can be stiflingly hot, so why not cool down at one of the many al fresco swimming pools? Try newly opened Bagni Misteriosi; Ceresio 7 (above) on the roof of fashion house DSquared2; or, most famous of them all, Lido di Milano – built during the Mussolini era, it now has a purpose-built beach.
British Airways now flies to Milan from London City and Stansted airports, as well as London Heathrow
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