Tuesday, December 06, 2011

Milan city guide

One of the greatest Italian cities, the fashion and design capital of Milan is an inspired choice for any continental break away. There is so much available for you to sample, in everything from art and fashion to cuisine. It is the perfect place to simply sit back at a coffee shop somewhere in town, watching all the passers-by whilst relaxing and enjoying the atmosphere.

Indeed the coffee bars are integral to the local culture and way of life for the Milanese. Start your day with an espresso to kick off, or sample something from the typically varied menu on offer for you.

Try the marocchino, a mini cappuccino served in a glass, or the cafe corretto, which is an espresso served with a shot of grappa. A popular local spot is the Cafe Royal situated on Via Agnello 2, frequented by people on their way to work, always an energetic, buzzing place to go.

The cultural highlights on show in Milan are truly breathtaking, and worth taking the time to fully explore and engage with.

Milan is one of Europe''s fashion capitals, and the swanky boutiques are a major attraction for visitors. If you''re after some serious shopping, then Milan has it covered. In Via Saint Andrea you''ll find Missoni, Trussardi, and of course Dolce and Gabbana who seem to be as significant to Milan as any painter.

As a style capital of the whole world, never mind just Italy, Milan has so many boutiques and hot shops for you to explore through the day. Go to the Via Saint Andrea and you''ll get to walk into the stores of top brands like Missoni, Trussardi, and Dolce and Gabbana, iconic names in this city. Their men''s boutique is even set in a gorgeous old palazzo.

If you head somewhere to enjoy the city''s fine food, you''ll be in for a treat. When you''ve finished shopping and seeing the sights, there are so many great places to settle down for a meal, such as the Gran Hotel Pub on Via Ascanio Sforza 75, where you can enjoy great cuisine in traditional surroundings.

Set in a great Milan courtyard, the trattoria serves splendid local meals such as gnocchi and cotoletta alla Milanese, or fried cutlet. Moreover you''ll recognise straight away an informal feel to the place which makes it an ideal location to unwind at the end of a busy and exciting day.

A cultural and fashion destination of choice, Milan is quite simply a fine city to which you can head for a continental break.

Article Source: http://www.articlemarketing.org

Huong Keri is a travel writer with a love of European travel. They recommend Octopus Travel for Milan hotels.