Effortlessly glamorous, Milan may have made its name as a fashion capital but it’s also filled with history and charm. Its location near the Italian Lakes makes it the perfect place to enjoy the thrill of the city and the picturesque tranquillity of a lakeside retreat.
Fashion capital
Swagger shoulder-to-shoulder with the elegant Milanese through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the world’s oldest shopping mall. Built in the 1860s this glass-topped arcade connects Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Scala, two of Milan’s must-see spots.
But the gallery is a landmark in its own right, with a striking mosaic floor and decorated arches. Stop for a cappuccino in any of the boutique cafés among the designer shops, to set yourself up for more browsing. Hunt for the latest Gucci shoes and Louis Vuitton bags in the city where these iconic designers made their names.
Views and voices
The imposing Duomo di Milano looms over Piazza del Duomo with its impossibly ornate spires stretching up to the sky. You can get a new perspective on this architectural masterpiece by taking a walk on the roof.
From your lofty vantage point you’ll be able to see every intricately carved detail of those famous spires, high above the crowded square below. The roof walk is popular so buy tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
Milan has been hitting high notes with its history of opera for centuries. Dip into the memories of actors, singers, ballerinas and composers at the quirky Museo Teatrale alla Scala, which has been a Milanese landmark since 1913. Feast your eyes on the sumptuous operatic costumes on display, visit the handsome library and venture through to the grand finale – the Scala Theatre’s impressive auditorium.
Lakeside relaxation
Take a revitalising trip to Lake Como in your hire car. Just over an hour’s drive north, the town of Lecco is flanked by craggy mountains and lapped by the glistening lake. Catch a water taxi to many of the little villages and Roman villas perched over the water.
Just a short drive from Lecco is the mountain resort of Piani D’erna. Tackle peaks of varying inclines and hike up high to take a deep breath of the fresh mountain air. For unforgettable views over the idyllic lake, take the cable car to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the stunning vistas surrounding you.
Driving two hours east from Milan will find you at Sirmione, a tiny, colourful town perched on a peninsular jutting into Lake Garda. The town is still separated from the mainland by an ancient castle gate, and you’ll need to park up and head in on foot if you want to amble round the history-steeped centre. At the very tip of the peninsular, dip your feet in the shallow, forget-me-not blue waters of Lake Garda.
Lake Maggiore is the less visited, but no less majestic, of the major lakes. A two-hour drive to Stresa is the best access point to the sites this lake has to offer. Boat trips to the many islands run from this chic, fashionable town.
A visit to Milan is a richly rewarding experience and the ideal city to begin any trip to Italy, whether you’re driving onwards to Rome and Venice, or looking for a peaceful lakeside break. Car rental in Milan makes it all possible.
