The El Camino Travel Guide to Milan, Italy
Written by Kayla Doris
Benvenuti a Milano—Welcome to Milan, a city that breaks away from the stereotypical image of Italy. Don’t arrive here expecting to find aesthetic grandeur as you would in Venice, Rome, or Florence. Milan is more of an industrial and international city—as Italy’s economic capital, it’s a business and financial hub that’s home to a global crowd. It feels more modern than other Italian cities, and as a result, it has more of a pace to it. Do arrive here expecting to discover Milan’s creative and cultural credentials. As a global fashion and design capital, it has a history of artisanal and quality craftsmanship woven into the city's fabric. That means exceptional shopping, artisanal markets, renowned design events, and an eclectic mix of architecture all waiting to be explored. And when you’re ready to escape cosmopolitan life, its northern location means that you can easily reach some of Italy’s most beautiful natural attractions such as Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, Monte Resegone, and the Alps. Ready to discover the best of the city?
We’ve collaborated with local insiders, Giorgia Matrone—luxury travel curator and Valentina Morandi—graphic designer at LuBar. We’ve also included tips from ECT Italy Experts, Livia Hengel—travel journalist and founder of The Italy Edit, and Zoe Shapiro—founder of Stellavision Travel, plus friends of ECT.
Eat
“Milan is filled with gorgeous restaurants but LùBar is special. Set within a greenhouse filled with tropical plants and bohemian furnishings, LùBar serves Sicilian-inspired Mediterranean dishes—perfect for a light lunch bathed in natural light. Right near the Modern Art Gallery and the lush Giardini Indro Montanelli, it's also just a short walk from Villa Necchi Campiglio and Villa Invernizzi (famous for its colony of pink flamingos),” says ECT Italy Expert and travel journalist, Livia Hengel. Visitors can take a piece of LuBar home with them by snagging a souvenir from their on-site shop, which sells quality homewares and food products such as extra virgin olive oil, jars of chocolate-covered almonds, and ancient grain pasta.
Also included in the guide:
A coffee shop and wine bar famed for its creative baked treats
A recently opened Greek restaurant serving delicious dinners by candlelight
A legendary restaurant that’s been serving famed fashion designers, American politicians, Italian filmmakers, and the local community for six decades
Image credit: Wait and See
Stay
Check into Room Mate Giulia and you’ll be greeted by a pink marble lobby, geometric patterns, color clashing furnishings, and terracotta bricks. The founder has previously described it as a "perfect combination of original design, fashion, luxury and architecture" that has been created to reflect the city. Beyond the rooms, you can make use of the gym, spa, and buffet breakfast served until noon. The location is in the city center, close to the Duomo.
Also included in the guide:
A design lover’s dream created by an architect whose combined unconventional materials and stunning art to make a minimal but inviting space
The best hotel in the city according to our local insider, featuring beautiful tiled bathrooms and artisan furnishings
Image credit: Lubar
Shop
“Wait and See is a cool boutique that’s perfect for gifts,” shared ECT members and fashion designers Ana and Laura Marin Jaramillo. The concept store is housed in an 18th-century former convent, offering a selection of women's clothing, accessories, jewelry, stationery, and vintage pieces. The founder's obsession with colorful and playful pieces has made it a treasure trove for fashion lovers who will love hunting through the racks. Find it in the 5 Vie neighborhood.
Also included in the guide:
Dreamy pop ceramics from small, independent and female-owned business
A contemporary pantry that specializes in colorful tableware
The cultural landmark known for its blend of underground culture and high fashion
Image credit: Room Mate Hotels
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