Your insider guide to Italy's fashion and cultural capital

🏛️ MUST-DO's

Iconic Landmarks

Duomo di Milano: Skip the elevator and climb the 220 steps to the rooftop for incredible views of the city and Alps. Watch out for pickpockets in the busy piazza.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Even if you're not shopping, this stunning glass-roofed arcade is architectural perfection. Stop for coffee at Marchesi.
The Last Supper: Book tickets well in advance - entry is extremely limited for da Vinci's masterpiece at Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Neighborhood Gems

Brera District: Milan's most beautiful area with warm-colored buildings, antique stores, and the botanical garden. Eat at Vesta or Convivium, but avoid tourist trap restaurants.
Navigli District: Grab a beer and sit by the Darsena to feel like a local. Don't miss 'Vicolo dei Lavandai' - a preserved corner where housewives once washed clothes in the river.
Chinatown (Paolo Sarpi): Perfect for casual strolling and incredible Asian food. Try dumplings at BaoZi, bowls at Tang Gourmet, and sweets at Mr Pie.

Hidden Treasures

San Bernardino Ossuary: A secret chapel filled with human bones near the Duomo. Free entry (bring a tip) for this unique off-the-beaten-path experience.
Crypt of San Sepolcro: Ancient underground gem with stunning frescoes and historical significance.
Colorful Houses on Via Lincoln: Milan's "Rainbow District" with pastel-painted villas reminiscent of Burano.

Art & Culture

Fondazione Prada: Contemporary art in a former gin distillery. Don't miss Bar Luce, entirely designed by Wes Anderson.
Hangar Bicocca: Vast industrial space with monumental installations, including Anselm Kiefer's permanent "Seven Heavenly Palaces."

🚫 MUST-NOT-DO's

Common Mistakes

Overpriced restaurants near major attractions. Watch for establishments specifically targeting tourists and stay away from eateries around Piazza del Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Head to Brera, Porta Romana, or Navigli for better value.
Visiting major attractions without reservations: Book The Last Supper, Labirinto di Pomodoro, and other popular sites well in advance.
Missing the aperitivo culture: Don't eat dinner before 7-8 PM - enjoy aperitivo time (6-8 PM) with drinks and small plates instead.

🍽️ WHERE TO EAT LIKE A LOCAL

Authentic Milanese

Osteria dell'Acquabella (Via San Rocco, 11): Traditional Milanese cuisine in a warm, old-school setting. Try the risotto and ossobuco.
Al Garghet (Via Selvanesco, 36): Worth the trip outside the city center for beloved Milanese classics. Book ahead for their saffron risotto and bistecca alla milanese.

Modern Gems

Tipografia Alimentare (Via Dolomiti, 1): Cozy bistro along Martesana canal, beautiful at sunset with seasonal dishes and natural wines.
Horto (Via S. Protaso, 5): Rooftop dining focused on sustainability and locally sourced ingredients with stunning city views.

Local Breakfast Spots

Pasticceria Alvin (Via Melchiorre Gioia, 141): World-class croissants and cappuccinos, conveniently close to central accommodations.
Pavè (Via Felice Casati): Another local favorite for the perfect morning ritual.

🍷 BEST BARS & NIGHTLIFE

Aperitivo Culture

Frizzielazzi (Via Evangelista Torricelli, 5): True local gem near Navigli with authentic, unforgettable atmosphere.
Triennale Terrazza (Via Emilio Alemagna, 6): One of the best sunset spots in Milan with panoramic city views.

Details from our “Scandinavian Minimal” apartment

Unique Experiences

Officina Milano (Via Giovenale, 7): Hidden cocktail bar in a former mechanic's garage with vintage soul and cinematic atmosphere.
Reverend (Via Gianfranco Zuretti, 9): Laid-back vinyl bar with underground vibes, perfect for music lovers.

🚇 GETTING AROUND

Best Transportation

Metro: Fast, affordable, and easy to navigate. Your best bet for reaching major attractions.
Trams: Great for seeing the city at a slower pace, especially through historic neighborhoods.
Walking: Many attractions are close together, especially around Brera and the Duomo area.

🏨 WHERE TO STAY

Nina & Simone Town Homes, our brand new two-room apartments, located on the 5th floor of a stunning early 1900s period building with a concierge and elevator, in the vibrant heart of the city, only a 10-minute walk from the Central Station.

Three unique vibes for three distinct styles, born from a thoughtful renovation and our passion for hospitality.

Each apartment features a bedroom, a living room with a sofa bed, a fully equipped kitchen, and a modern bathroom, comfortably accommodating up to four guests.

“Mid-century” and “Colorful” both have private garage parking, while “Scandinavian Minimal” has a balcony overlooking the courtyard.

Book Direct & Save: www.ninaesimone.com

Detail from our “Scandinavian Minimal” apartment

📅 DAY TRIP IDEAS

Lake Como (Bellagio): 1.5 hours by train/car for stunning lakeside views and charming streets
Lugano, Switzerland: 1 hour away for Swiss-Italian culture and mountain scenery
Lake Iseo: 1.5 hours for tranquil retreat with Monte Isola, Europe's largest lake island

Download for free our full Milano guide here: ninaesimone.com/milanguide

Curated by a true Milanese for an authentic experience that balances must-see attractions with hidden gems only locals know.

Milan: Must-Do's, Must-Not-Do's, and Local Tips