Milan is well known as a fashion capital. The short list “New York, London, Paris, and Milan” sums up the cutting edge of fashion, and there is no hyperbole here. This is the site of a densely-packed acre of shops known as the “golden triangle”. For those not enchanted with these material goods (or who cannot afford them), Milan also offers a wealth of art, architecture, and food. Things to do in Milan:
1. The Last Supper
Leonardo’s Renaissance mural is located in Milan’s church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Its recent restoration took two decades. Visitors are sometimes surprised by the apparent obscurity of its location on the refectory wall behind the tucked-back church entrance.

2. Il Duomo
The size of this cathedral is staggering. It is, in fact, only second to Rome’s St. Peter’s in sheer scale. Begun in the 14th century, the cathedral took five centuries to finish.

3. Via Montenapoleone
This is the shopper’s Mecca. This neighborhood of boutiques, of clothing and design, and of culinary traditions is a nexus of cutting-edge fashion known the world over.

4. Teatro Alla Scala
La Scala is perhaps the world’s best-known opera house. First opened to fame and acclaim in the late 18th century, the opera house was completely refurbished, enjoying a grand re-opening in 2004.

5. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
This is a shopping district sheltering under a roof of iron and glass. The shops, not surprisingly, are high-end, the cafes are pricey, and yet, the experience of luxury is worth it whether visitors can afford to buy, or just to come and gape.

6. Castello Sforzesco
This heavy fortress was built in the 14th century. The courtyards and towers now house museum displays. It is not only a place to see monumental works, including Michelangelo’s unfinished last sculpture, but also a place to relax and picnic.

7. Street Markets
Milan is host to many open-air markets. From the inevitable clothing, shoes, and accessories to fresh market foods, these stalls are a feast for the senses.

The great city of Milan is a true treasure trove. The visitor is offered an embarrassment of riches, from the greatest art works in the world, to the very edge of current design.