Italy has long been on my travel bucket list, and our journey began in Milan (also known as Milano). This city, steeped in history, is home to the striking Duomo. This dazzling cathedral, completed over centuries, stands as a testament to Milan’s artistic heritage.
Nearby, the Castello Sforzesco, a once-mighty fortress, now houses world-class museums filled with treasures. Additionally, shopping through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II offers a historical experience. This stunning 19th-century arcade is adorned with intricate details.
STAY HERE…
Avani Palazzo Moscova Milan, hidden behind a magnificent neoclassical façade, exudes modern charm. It features 65 rooms and suites in soothing white and beige tones, creating a minimalist ambience. Housed in an iconic building designed by Italian engineer Giulio Sarti, the hotel was once Milan’s first train station. It’s conveniently located just 450 metres from Garibaldi station.
During our two-day stay, we enjoyed the Avani Superior Room. This room showcases Milan’s renowned design ethos with minimalist decor and inviting accents. Its mezzanine level offered a cosy retreat bathed in natural light. The well-appointed bathroom featured plush towels, a full range of toiletries, and a rejuvenating rain shower, ensuring a comfortable urban escape.
WITHIN THE PREMISES
Descend to the basement, once Milan’s first train station, and discover the tranquil AmaTi Spa. Guests are welcomed into a world of wellness. Bespoke treatments restore balance, while the sauna, hammam, and hydromassage tub provide relaxation. After a long flight, I enjoyed a deep cleansing facial. The skilled therapist performed a multi-step process, starting with gentle cleansing and exfoliation. This was followed by a relaxing face mask and facial scrub. The treatment concluded with a soothing mask, calming massage, and toner and moisturiser, leaving me ready for my next adventure.
Forte Restaurant, located within the hotel, offers a perfect dining experience. Start your day with a buffet spread featuring freshly baked bread, eggs, and flaky croissants. There are also fruits and yoghurts, as well as an array of cured meats and cheeses for those craving savoury delights.
For dinner, enjoy Mediterranean flavours at Forte Restaurant. Start with an aperitivo on the terrace at sunset, then move to the maritime-inspired dining area. Rustic charm, with exposed brick walls and fishing nets, sets the scene. A display of fresh catches on ice invites exploration of the seafood menu. Must-try dishes include the Seafood risotto, bursting with the essence of the sea, and the Mixed grill featuring succulent prawns, grilled squid, and tender fish fillets. To end your Italian culinary journey, indulge in smooth, creamy gelato topped with candied nuts.
The Avani Superior Room is available from AED1,168 per night. To book, visit website.
EAT LIKE A LOCAL
Stendhal Milano: In Brera, Stendhal offers a taste of Milanese heritage from the late 1800s. Established 35 years ago by Italo Manca, it features contemporary touches like daily-changing wildflower table settings. Try the Fiori di zucca, ricotta e pesto alla Genovese, which showcases courgette flowers with creamy ricotta and Genoese pesto. The Mondeghili tradizionali are tender Milanese meatballs bursting with flavour. The outdoor terrace, adorned with lights and art pieces, provides an ideal setting for aperitifs and social gatherings. (stendhalmilano.it)
View this post on Instagram
Osteria Serafina: Located in Milan’s De Angeli area on Via Sacco, Osteria Serafina offers a welcoming atmosphere. Inside, the open-plan kitchen is the focal point, where chefs display their culinary artistry. The restaurant’s nostalgic charm, reminiscent of the 1970s, is evident in its retro decor and warm lighting. Begin with classic dishes like Pappa e burrata (Tuscan tomato-bread soup) and enjoy main courses like Milanese & midollo (Risotto Milanese with marrow) and Tajarin al tartufo (Tagliolini with truffle). (osteriaserafina.com)
LITTLE BLACK BOOK
Unique things to do in Milan
Sarah Zarrillo’s Vintage Shopping Tour: For those who love vintage treasures but have limited time, this tour offers a quick exploration. Via Gian Giacomo Moro is home to several shops within walking distance. Bivio Milano offers high-end labels like Louis Vuitton and Versace at discounted prices, along with rare Hermes ties from the 1960s. Cavalli e Nastri features designer gowns reminiscent of Hollywood’s Golden Age, while Foto Veneta Ottica offers vintage eyewear worn by Elton John. Humana People to People provides diverse clothing and accessories, and Humana Vintage offers an industrial-chic experience with a variety of vintage clothing. Finally, Vesto Milano has high-end menswear and womenswear, along with unique furniture and shoes.
From AED173 per person. (getyourguide.com)
Fiat 500 Vintage Tour: This spectacular tour, organised by Federico and available through Airbnb, transforms your Milan adventure. Cruising through the streets in a classic 1971 Fiat 500, guided by Federico’s charisma and knowledge of hidden gems, feels like a personalised exploration. The tour offers picturesque stops and whimsical charm, fostering genuine connections and laughter. It provides an authentic glimpse into Milanese life, leaving you with stunning photos and a deep appreciation for “La Dolce Vita.”
AED495 per person. (airbnb.com)