Title: Unveiling the Hidden Gems of Milan: A Local’s Guide
Introduction:
Milan, a vibrant and cosmopolitan city in Italy, is often associated with fashion, design, and finance. However, behind its bustling streets and iconic landmarks, lies a treasure trove of lesser-known gems waiting to be discovered. In this article, we explore the recommendations of locals and insiders, who share their favorite places in Milan, from historical villas and architectural marvels to picturesque canals and cultural hotspots. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these hidden gems will provide a unique and authentic experience of this dynamic city.
1. Villa Belgiojoso Bonaparte: A Neoclassical Masterpiece
– Step into the enchanting world of Villa Belgiojoso Bonaparte, an awe-inspiring 18th-century neoclassical villa.
– Discover the villa’s park and garden, a serene oasis in the heart of the city.
– Website: [Insert website]
– Recommended by: Paolo Gabriele di Sessa, banker, Milan
2. The Roof of the Duomo: A Spectacular Playground
– Experience the breathtaking views from the rooftop of the Duomo, Milan’s iconic cathedral.
– Marvel at the Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery and panoramic vistas of the city and the mountains.
– Take a short elevator ride from the back of the cathedral to enjoy this unique perspective.
– Website: [Insert website]
– Recommended by: Douglas Lucius, economist, Washington DC
3. Villa Necchi Campiglio: Modernist Architecture at its Finest
– Explore Villa Necchi Campiglio, a private residence turned cultural hub showcasing modernist architecture.
– Admire the stunning interiors and indulge in the beauty of the garden, swimming pool, and former tennis court.
– Visit the on-site restaurant to complete your experience.
– Website: [Insert website]
– Recommended by: Carmelo Raimondo, lawyer, Milan
4. Kasa dei Libri: A Bibliophile’s Haven
– Immerse yourself in the incredible private collection of books at Kasa dei Libri.
– Enjoy art and literature exhibitions at this hidden gem near the Garibaldi neighborhood.
– Savor a delicious breakfast at Momo Milano or a traditional Italian pizza at Berber.
– Website: [Insert website]
– Recommended by: Erica Rosati, Marketing Director, Milan
5. Naviglio Martesana: Milan’s Authentic Canal
– Discover the lesser-known Naviglio Martesana, Milan’s most authentic canal.
– Stroll along its banks, passing parks, residential buildings, and charming bars.
– Eastriver, a unique club with a large garden, is a favorite among families and nature enthusiasts.
– Website: [Insert website]
– Recommended by: Danja Nebuloni, tourism consultant, Milan
6. Alcatraz: A Premier Venue for Live Performances
– Witness world-class bands perform at Alcatraz, one of Milan’s top concert venues.
– Located in the north of the city, it offers easy access and a vibrant atmosphere.
– Enjoy pre-show dining and drinking options, such as Edit, a modern beer and wine lounge.
– Website: [Insert website]
– Recommended by: Matthew McCloy, Marketing Student, Glasgow
7. Idroscalo: Nature’s Retreat Near the City
– Escape to Idroscalo, a green space near Linate airport, perfect for walking, cycling, and water sports.
– Explore the lake by foot or bike, rent a canoe, or try your hand at water skiing.
– Indulge in the surrounding forest for a refreshing run or relax at the bars and restaurants.
– Look out for sporting events and dance parties held in this vibrant setting.
– Recommended by: Paola Cairella, IT consultant, Milan
8. Saint Mauricio in the Monastero Mayor: Milan’s Hidden Gem
– Uncover the beauty of Saint Mauricio in the Monastero Mayor, often referred to as Milan’s Sistine Chapel.
– Experience a serene atmosphere and admire brilliant art away from the crowds.
– Website: [Insert website]
– Recommended by: Marco, journalist, Milan
9. Play More! A Sports Center for All
– Discover Play More!, a unique sports center that offers inclusive and affordable training opportunities.
– Embrace an environment where people with all types of disabilities can exercise and train together.
– Join projects like Run Challenge and Tennis for the blind, contributing to inclusion initiatives.
– Website: [Insert website]
– Recommended by: Cecilia Vicinanza, Key Account Manager, Milan
Conclusion:
Milan holds many secrets waiting to be uncovered by curious travelers. From hidden villas and architectural marvels to serene canals and cultural hotspots, this thriving city offers a myriad of unique experiences beyond its well-known attractions. By embracing the recommendations of locals, you can delve into the true essence of Milan, creating memories that will last a lifetime. So, venture off the beaten path, explore the hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry that Milan has to offer.
Summary:
Discover the hidden gems of Milan through the eyes of locals, insiders, and experts. This article takes you on a journey to explore lesser-known attractions, including the enchanting Villa Belgiojoso Bonaparte, the breathtaking rooftop of the Duomo, the modernist marvel Villa Necchi Campiglio, the literary haven of Kasa dei Libri, the authentic Naviglio Martesana canal, the vibrant Alcatraz concert venue, the tranquil Idroscalo nature retreat, the artistic splendor of Saint Mauricio in the Monastero Mayor, and the inclusive sports center Play More! These secret spots offer a unique and authentic experience of Milan, allowing you to delve deeper into the city’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. So, go beyond the tourist trail and uncover the hidden gems that make Milan truly special.
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This article is part of a Milan guide by FT Globetrotter
The ceiling of the Duomo
The roof of the Duomo is fascinating. Stroll among the needles as if it were the most spectacular playground in the world. See the Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery and much of the city; and without straining your eyes too much, you can see the mountains to the north of the city. All just a short elevator ride from the back of the cathedral. Website; Addresses
—Douglas Lucius, economist, Washington DC
Villa Necchi Campiglio
My favorite place in Milan is Villa Necchi Campiglio. It used to be a private residence and is now in the custody of the FAI (Fondo Environmentale Italiano), which is a kind of [equivalent of the UK’s] National trust. It is open from Wednesday to Sunday and is probably the best example in Milan of modernist architecture applied to residential housing. There is a garden, a swimming pool and a space that was formerly the tennis court. There is also a restaurant. The interiors represent the pinnacle of 1930s Italian design. Website; Addresses
— Carmelo Raimondo, lawyer, Milan
House of books
Kasa dei Libri: home to an incredible private collection of books. Not far from the Garibaldi neighborhood, it also organizes exhibitions focused on art and literature. Where to eat there: Momo Milano for a delicious breakfast; and Berber for a proper Italian pizza. Website; Addresses
— Erica Rosati, Marketing Director, Milan
Naviglio Martesana and Eastriver
Naviglio Martesana. It is the least known canal in Milan, but also the most authentic. It is in the northeast of the city, near the Turro and Gorla metro stations (both on the Red Line (M1)). Along the canal you will find parks, residential buildings and also interesting places to stop for food and drink (from breakfast to after-dinner drinks). It’s ideal for pub hopping during the summer months as there are plenty of nice bars. Addresses
And my favorite place on the canal is Eastriver: a kind of club with a large garden, ideal for families with children. Fair prices, good food and drink: here you can spend an evening surrounded by trees and interesting objects. You can also rent canoes in summer. Website; Addresses
— Danja Nebuloni, tourism consultant, Milan
Alcatraz
Milan is a regular stop on world tours for countless bands. The city is ideally located and perfectly connected to attract visitors from all over Italy and beyond. There are plenty of venues to choose from, although I recently visited to see Australian rock band King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard play at Alcatraz, one of Milan’s best-established venues, in the north of the city and well served by public transport. to the center. With its tiered interior and large stage, it’s not hard to see why it attracts such an international crowd, with plenty of eating and drinking opportunities on your doorstep, including Edit, a modern beer and wine lounge. This area is perfect for those looking for an experience beyond the city center and for those who want to see their favorite artists while traveling through Europe. Website; Addresses
— Matthew McCloy, Marketing Student, Glasgow
Idroscalo
Milan has some lovely green spaces for walking and cycling. Near Linate airport is Idroscalo. You can arrive by bicycle, car or bus. Once there, you can walk or bike around the lake, rent a canoe, or go water skiing. The forest surrounding the lake is great for running and there are also bars and restaurants. Keep an eye out for various sporting events or dance parties. Addresses
— Paola Cairella, IT consultant, Milan
Play more!
Play more! It is a sports center for everyone. People with any type of disability can practice and train with others in a safe and inclusive environment. It’s much cheaper than anywhere else and the trainers are trained and certified. It is in the center, surrounded by some of the best tourist spots in the city. His projects include Run Challenge and Tennis for the blind. Anyone can join both, with or without disabilities. The first, in particular, aims to participate in the Milan City Relay Marathon to raise funds for inclusion projects. Website; Addresses
— Cecilia Vicinanza, Key Account Manager, Milan
What is your favorite place in Milan? Tell us in the comments below. And follow FT Globetrotter on Instagram at @FTGlobetrotter
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