Hotels in Milan

Milan is Italy's working capital of fashion and design, and it shows itself off differently to Rome or Florence — less open-air museum, more polished commerce with genuine treasures tucked inside. The Duomo's rooftop walk among the spires is the essential sight, Leonardo's Last Supper needs booking weeks ahead, and the Brera district hides the city's best gallery behind its aperitivo bars.

Come during Design Week or fashion week and the whole city hums; come without a plan and it can feel like a smart business city, because it is. Aperitivo on the Navigli canals is the reliable evening. Stay in Brera for charm and walkability, around Porta Romana for value with metro access, or near Centrale only if you're using the excellent rail links.