Milan: Fashion capital of the world
Milan's prestigious title, “The Fashion Capital of the World”, resonates far beyond its borders. The city stands at the forefront of the fashion industry. The roots of Milan's fashion dominance can be traced back to the Renaissance period when the city emerged as an epicentre of artistic innovation. This creative spirit paved the way for Milan to become a hotspot for luxury craftsmanship. Today, it is a spot for top-notch designers, renowned fashion houses, and cutting-edge styles that redefine the fashion landscape. The fashion district of the city, famously known as the "Quadrilatero della Moda," is a network of elegant streets that showcase an exhibition of high-end boutiques. Milan Fashion Week showcases Italy's finest craftsmanship and reinforces the city's position as a trendsetting powerhouse.
Milan's inhabitants are known for their impeccable taste in almost every arena. Cafés like Crazy Cat Café and Orso Nero Coffee throughout the city provide the perfect backdrop for discussions. Milan's culinary scene with dishes like Aperitivo and Ossobuco also reflects its reputation, with gourmet restaurants and relaxed cafes offering delectable experiences to match the city's refined aesthetics. The city embodies the spirit of trend-setting. With a rich history steeped in artistry and a contemporary pulse that beats with innovation, Milan continues to shape the global narrative.
Places to visit in Milan
Let’s learn more about how to make an itinerary covering all the significant places you wouldn’t want to miss.
- Sforzesco Castle: Incepted in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, the Duke of Milan, Sforzesco Castle was intended to symbolise grandeur. Its strategic location, surrounded by lush gardens and defensive walls, emphasised its importance as a stronghold during turbulent times. Over the years, it underwent various modifications and expansions. The castle houses several museums that highlight different aspects of Milan's heritage. You can learn more about the paintings and sculptures and embrace the legacy of Milan.
- Santa Maria delle Grazie: Santa Maria delle Grazie is a famous church and convent recognised for housing Leonardo da Vinci's iconic fresco, "The Last Supper." Built in the late 15th century, the church features a blend of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles. The interior of the place boasts impressive vaulted ceilings and ornate decorations. Home to da Vinci's masterpiece, Santa Maria is a significant cultural and artistic treasure designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The Quadrilatero della Moda: The Quadrilatero della Moda, often called the "Fashion Quadrangle," is a high-end fashion district in Milan. It's renowned as one of the world's most influential fashion and shopping destinations. This shopping district is home to flagship stores of luxury fashion brands like Gucci, Prada, Versace, and Armani, along with top jewellery and design boutiques. Its elegant streets, including Via Monte Napoleone and Via della Spiga, offer a glamorous shopping experience amid beautiful historic architecture.
- Pinacoteca di Brera: The Pinacoteca di Brera is a museum whose origins trace back to the late 18th century when Empress Maria Theresa of Austria established the Brera Academy and enriched it with an impressive collection of artworks. Today, this institution houses an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, providing a detailed overview of Italian art from the Middle Ages to the modern era.
- Monumental Cemetery: The Monumental Cemetery of Milan, called Cimitero Monumentale, is a renowned monumental cemetery known for its impressive funerary art and architectural grandeur. Established in the 19th century, it's a captivating open-air museum of sculptures, mausoleums, and graves that pay homage to Milan's history and culture. The cemetery features a diverse range of artistic styles, including neoclassical, art deco, and modernist, in memorials dedicated to prominent Milanese figures. Notable highlights include the Famedio, a memorial chapel, and the stunning sculptures adorning many tombs.
- Cathedral Square: Cathedral Square is one of Milan’s prime squares and deserves a spot in your itinerary. At the heart of Cathedral Square stands the Milan Cathedral, or Duomo di Milano, a true masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The cathedral's façade, embellished with thousands of intricately carved statues and soaring spires, seems extraordinary and divine. The square also features the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an ornate shopping arcade, and the Royal Palace of Milan. The square is a hub for cultural events and gatherings and the starting point for many city tours.
Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)
Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) is about 40 km northwest of Milan. It is well-connected to the city centre by the two train routes: the Malpensa Express and Trenitalia. Cabs and car rentals are also available so that you can pick the most convenient option. IndiGo regularly operates flights to Milan to this airport in a codeshare partnership with Turkish Airlines. Milan Airport has two terminals for domestic and international travel. A free shuttle connects them and runs between them every 7 minutes. Facilities and services like duty-free shops, eateries, ATMs, and currency exchange are available at the airport.
