Known around the world as a fashion capital, the Italian city of Milan draws a wide variety of fashion divas and business tycoons year round. The city is as artistic as it is historic and features a number of distinguished museums, opera houses, palazzos, and galleries. Have you ever considered ogling some of da Vinci’s original drawings in between trips to upscale shopping malls? If not, a trip to Milan is certainly in order.

When to Visit Milan

Milan is an incredible destination throughout the entire year, though individuals who don’t like rainy weather should avoid the city during the spring months, although temperatures are reasonably cool. Summer temperatures tend to hover around 80 degrees Fahrenheit (26 Celsius) and then taper back down to a cooler temperature for the fall months. Truth be told, the temperatures in Milan are relatively stable throughout the year except for during the winter months when they fall to anywhere between 25 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit (-4 to 7.2 degrees Celsius).

What to Wear in Milan

Despite its status as the fashion capital of the world, not everyone walks around the city wearing designer clothing. As a matter of fact, if you look around you’ll see a wide variety of fashion trends ranging from ethnic dress to falling jeans (on teens, of course) and completely sloppy tourists. It’s best to try to look at least somewhat put together during your stay but dressing up every moment of the day is inappropriate.

What you don’t want to do is wear brand new white sneakers as they’re a sign that you’re a tourist. Shorts and tank tops are usually acceptable but you can’t wear them inside of churches so they’re best avoided, unless you’re absolutely positive you won’t be going near a house of worship on any given day.

Safety Considerations within Milan

Milan is an incredibly safe city for both locals and tourists but, as in any place, you should use caution when moving about. The most common crime in Milan is theft but if you are careful to lock up  your belongings, pay attention to  where you leave your purse, and lock your rental car at all times you should have no problems.

The city is usually very busy, even at night, so you should feel safe exploring the nightlife as well. Individuals traveling alone should consider renting a cab, though – better safe than sorry, especially if you find yourself lost in an unfamiliar neighborhood.

Photo: orsorama

Speaking the Language in Milan

This may come as a bit of a surprise but locals often prefer it when tourists speak their own native languages. You will, most likely, still experience a language barrier but waitresses and shop owners prefer speaking slow English than attempting to decipher your broken Italian.

Unless you are fluent in Italian, greet your host in his native language and then assess the situation. Many Milan locals, especially those who deal with the public, are fluent in English and it will be easier for everyone involved if you just slow you speech, avoid slang, and communicate effectively.

Transportation in Milan

Image Credit:LHOON

Most of Milan can be explored by foot, especially if you’re staying near the center of the city. You’ll enjoy being able to wander from shop to museum to restaurant at your own leisurely pace and at the same time you’ll have a better opportunity to witness life in Milan through your own two eyes.

It’s highly recommended that you avoid attempting to drive through Milan as it can be incredibly confusing – not to mention adventurous. The city bus system is highly recommended and taxi drivers are friendly and knowledgeable. Both are much better options than driving which, by the way, comes with an extra pollution surcharge.

Things to Do in Milan

If you’re visiting Milan for the first time we highly recommend you join one of the city’s myriad of sightseeing tours. They’re a bit expensive but will ensure you’re able to see several major highlights – including a view of the original Last Supper – and will help you to locate some of the other attractions you wish to see later on during your trip.

Those interested in understanding exactly why Milan is the fashion capital of the world should head towards Quadrilatero d’Oro. The triangle shaped plaza is where you’ll find the storefronts of most of Italy’s major fashion designers. If window shopping depresses you (or if you simply aren’t interested in high-end clothing) you should skip this section of the city entirely.

Photo: scalleja

By the way, you haven’t had a real gelato until you’ve visited Riverano Gelato. Inside you’ll be presented with a menu full of both familiar and unusual names (though you might be able to sample one of the strange ones if you ask). The creamy texture is unlike any you’ve ever tasted – and you certainly won’t find yourself licking up a watery mess like you would in some other shops. Don’t leave Milan without visiting this establishment.

Milan is a vibrant city full of sophistication and class. Explore as much as you can while you’re there. You won’t be sorry!