Places to visit in Milan

You will not have a problem finding places to visit in Milan. The problem is choosing. Therefor, this article will not include the most iconic Milan point of interests, like the iconic Duomo di Milano or the Sforzesco Castle, because these are famous attractions you will visit anyway. In this article you will find places to visit in Milan that will complement your trip, like unique cafés, exclusive vintage shops and hip cocktail bars. Here are 7 places to visit when you are in Milan. 

10 Corso Como – in the Brera area

You don’t want to miss this! In the heart of Brera area you will find 10 Corso Como – a dining and shopping complex that combines art, fashion, music, design, food and culture. The brain behind it all is previews editor for a lot of Italian magazines, Vogue included, and you can find this complex in both New York, Seoul, Shanghai and Beijing. Enjoy a nice Italian coffee in the lush backyard after browsing through all the amazing designer pieces.

Pavé – artisan bakery

Sunday brunch? This is the place to go. Pavé is an artisan bakery where everything is made in front of your eyes. Very cozy atmosphere with both Italians and internationals – a place for both chilling with friends and working. They even have a little working corner. If you have a sweet tooth, you wont manage to go here only for a healthy lunch. The counter consists of freshly baked cakes, croissants, cookies, brioches and cheesecakes – yes, you name it, they have it. My favorite in Italy in general – Cornetto Créma…. They also serve heavenly coffee.

The Botanical Club – in the Isola area

Can you ever go wrong when combining contemporary food culture with the finest handcrafted Gin? I don’t think so. The Botanical Club is located both in Isola and Navigli. Hip, wealthy crowd, good looking bartenders and always fully booked. Go there for a snack and drink after a day of shopping, or book a table several days in advance. I recommend the scallops with plancha, chestnut cream and late radish while sipping on El Chullo (the menu changes every month).

Fioraio Bianchi Caffè – in the Brera area

Stroll around in the beautiful Brera area and end up here for a cup of tea or coffee. Old fashion café and florists. The whole place is covered with seasonal flowers, and beautiful wooden interior. Calm and not particularly crowded.

The separate cake counter reminds me of a tea party at grandma with relatives, where everybody brought a cake to be shared. A memorable visit.

Cavalli E Nastri – vintage shops

I thought I had experience some of the best vintage shops before, living in Paris and all. But when I came to this little store in Via Brera, I knew that was wrong. It is like taking a journey into the past. You can stay here for a long time, even though the shop is not that big. Dresses, jewels, shoes, bags and hats are color assorted through the whole shop. Everything is masterly completed. This is a real inspiration to your wardrobe even though you don’t buy anything. Playing dress up in vintage Chanel and YSL is a must when in Milan.

MAG – cocktails in Navigli area

One of the most famous bars in Navigli, and in Milan in general. If you ask a Milanese or someone who lived here for quite a while, Mag always comes up as one of the top three bars. You can go here for a coffee and breakfast in the morning, but the real Mag-experience is at night. Signature drinks and an overcrowded bar with bartender showing off their cocktail skills. Sit outside and observe the nightlife of Navigli or hang out in the comfy, bohemian chairs inside. If you go here for a couple of nights, the bartenders will remember you and then the real fun begins – behind the facade is another bar…

Navigli area – Milan point of interests

This area is know for it’s artistic, hipster vibe and if you want to meet Milanese’s when visiting Milan, this is the place to hang out. Lot of vintage shops, cool bars and restaurants. When you are a bit tired of pasta and pizza, you will find many other options in this area. Cuisines from all over the world are represented here. On Sunday you can enjoy the canal market with everything from food to fur.

This is also where I recommend staying when you visit Milan. Living in a house from the 1800s right by the Naviglio canal will make you feel like you are living in a romantic poem. The apartment is on the first floor, with plenty of space and a huge backyard to your disposure. Like this is not enough –the guard dog is a beautiful golden retriever who will give you the most loving welcome.