Italy for me From Italy with love
The idea that Milan is Italy’s fashion and financial capital is widespread. Yet behind the city’s banks and boutiques lie mysteries and charms unique to Milan. Many of the city’s secrets and quirks can hardly be called traditionally Italian. Still, before you set off on a journey to this remarkable city, take some time to discover more about it.
We’ve gathered five of the most useful, unusual, and surprising facts about the fashion capital.
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All Roads Lead from Rome
Though Rome is known as the Eternal City, it maintains a kind of rivalry with Milan. While Rome is the country’s political hub, Milan is home to many banks, stock exchanges, and, of course, fashion houses. Romans often joke that the best thing about Milan is the train back to Rome. However, this slightly biased opinion doesn’t stop them from vacationing in Milan.
Read more about how to get from Rome to Milan.
Restaurants Often Close Early
Milan is located in northern Italy, which means life here follows its own rhythm and different rules that often don’t align with those of the southern and central regions. Unlike the many boutiques and clubs, restaurants may observe unusual hours, often serving lunch only after 1:30 PM and dinner after 8 PM. Locals are very punctual, so if you book a table, make sure to arrive on time.
Less Espresso, More Lungo
If you’re tired of endless cups of coffee from popular chains, Milan will feel like paradise. But don’t expect a small, strong, and slightly bitter Italian espresso. Milanese prefer their coffee with more water. This certainly helps them fully enjoy a pastry or two.
“Happy Hour” – The Aperitivo Hour
Milan is a city where you simply must enjoy stunning, elegant cocktails. A popular drink here is the “Spritz”—a light alcoholic mix of sparkling wine (Prosecco), soda water, and the aperitif Aperol.
Basso Bar (Via Plinio 39) is where the Negroni Sbagliato was first created by accident. A local bartender mixed up the ingredients for a classic Negroni, accidentally replacing the gin with sparkling wine.
At Armani Bamboo Bar (Via Manzoni 31), traditional Italian dishes are transformed into cocktails. The Caprese Mary combines vodka, tomato juice, basil, and mozzarella. And this is far from the only unusual mix you can try exclusively here.
Navigli – King of the Night
Navigli is Milan’s trendiest district and the heart of its nightlife. This is where young people gather in the evenings—and for good reason. Countless restaurants, bars, and cafes regularly offer new programs and entertainment.