“Milan Like a Local — Our Personal Picks for an Unforgettable Visit”
Planning a trip to Milan?
Most guides will send you to the Duomo and the Galleria (and sure, we do too 😉) — but there’s so much more to this city than the obvious.
That’s why we created a free Milan guide filled with places we actually go to — from cozy trattorias to quiet sunset spots and even a few weird secrets you’d never find on your own.
Here’s a little taste...
🌆 Places to Wander
We’re all for the big sights — the top of the Duomo is absolutely worth the climb — but Brera is the district that truly stole our hearts. Between pastel houses, hidden courtyards, and botanical gardens, it feels like a city inside the city.
And then there’s Navigli — yes, it’s lively and popular, but if you know where to look (we do), there are corners that still whisper old Milan. Let’s just say there’s a cobblestone alley with a very poetic name we won’t spoil here...
🍝 Where to Eat (Like You Live Here)
We’re a little obsessed with Milanese food.
We’re talking risotto giallo, cotoletta, and warm bowls of comfort in places where nonna could easily be cooking in the back.
A few of our go-to spots:
A rustic osteria with real charm (and prices locals actually pay)
A hidden garden restaurant just outside the center
A rooftop place with city views and a surprisingly calm vibe
Want the full list with names, addresses, and our favorite dishes? It’s all in the guide 💌
🎨 Unexpected Art & Secret Spaces
Yes, Milan has amazing museums (and we list our top 5 in the guide), but what about:
A chapel filled with bones (eerie but beautiful)
A maze inspired by the Epic of Gilgamesh
A rainbow-colored street that looks like it’s from a fairytale
We’re not naming names here — some things are better discovered with a bit of mystery 😉
🎁 Want the full guide?
This post only scratches the surface — the full PDF guide includes:
📍 Google Maps links
🍷 Local aperitivo spots
🌳 Day trip ideas
🎵 Bars with vinyls and secret cocktails
✨ ...and a few surprises
🎉 Download it for free here: https://ninaesimone.com/milanguide
(It’s our gift to curious travelers, dreamers, and new Milan-lovers everywhere.)