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The fashion capital of Italy has a wealth of indulgences, from premier pasta dishes to heavenly pastries and more cerebral delights like modern art and historic structures. First-timers won't want to miss the iconic Duomo or the luxurious Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade. Looking to experience even more? We've rounded up our favorite places to eat, imbibe, and absorb Milan's cultural highlights.
Fondazione Prada
Pictured above
Founded by designer Miuccia Prada and her husband Patrizio Bertelli, the Fondazione Prada museum blends modern art with industrial charm in a former gin distillery. Though it's connected to the Prada fashion brand, the foundation focuses on supporting contemporary art and culture through bold exhibitions, innovative installations, and unique film screenings.
Ambrosian Library
Bibliophiles will love stepping into this 17th-century library and art gallery. The building is beautiful, full of manuscript-lined shelves and Renaissance artwork. Looking for something spooky? Inside, you'll find a glass-cased reliquary containing a red-golden hair lock and two pendants that belonged to Lucrezia Borgia, the illegitimate daughter of Pope Alexander VI. The infamous courtesan bewitched men for centuries, and it's said the library is haunted by Lucrezia’s crying ghost.
Ratanà
Pictured above, image via Ratanà
Sitting in the shadow of architect Stefano Boeri’s stunning vertical forest installation, Ratanà is our first pick for a fantastic meal in Milano. The modern menu changes with the season, but there's almost always a fantastic risotto on offer.
Al Cortile
Tucked away in a historic warehouse building in a quiet neighborhood, Al Cortile is perfect for a relaxed dinner surrounded by locals. Ask for a seat in the charismatic courtyard and splurge on the seven-course traditional Italian tasting menu.
Bar Basso
Remember a few years ago when everyone was ordering a Negroni Sbagliato thanks to TikTok? We have Bar Basso to thank for this delicious twist on the traditional aperitivo, which was invented here in 1967. It's an especially popular spot during fashion week, so get here early to see and be seen.
Nottingham Forest
Pictured above
Regularly appearing on the World's 50 Best Bars list, Nottingham Forest is an enchanting bar with decor as eclectic as its cocktails. The shelves hold over 2,000 bottles used to create inventive drinks served in playful vessels. Show up early to get a table.
Bar Luce
Pictured above
It's not even accidentally Wes Anderson—it's intentionally so. The café in Fondazione Prada was designed by the film director to feel as whimsical as one of his movie sets. The menu is equally full of charm, with pastel pastries and adorably aesthetic branding.
Nún
This airy lunch counter is perfect for a quick bite between shows. The Middle Eastern menu features customizable wraps, delicious shawarma, and a ton of vegetarian and vegan options, including fresh-made falafel dishes with an array of add-ons.
Pasticceria Sissi
Pictured above, image via Pasticceria Sissi on Facebook
Perhaps the best pastries in town are found at one of Milan's most charming bakeries. The seasonal treats (Christmas cookies, Easter breads, little chocolate pigs) are the stars, but don't miss out on the cream-filled croissants perfectly paired with a cappuccino.
Inspired by designer Allison Hoeltzel Savini's love of vintage, saddlery, and the country of Italy, Officina del Poggio is a collection of essential leather accessories, bags, and pieces founded in 2014 on the core ideals of timelessness, heirloom quality, and artisanal Italian craftsmanship. With their understated elegance and classic silhouettes, the iconic styles combine modern luxury with thoughtful utilitarian practicality.
