Milan overview

Milan is the heartbeat of Italian fashion and economy, a seemingly soulless city of pretentious catwalk models and investment bankers that revolve around the home of the Italian stock exchange. However, beneath the make-up lie treasures unspoilt by 20th century tourism and an unrivalled, eccentric creative streak which touches streets, clothing and people. The Milan cathedral still houses da Vinci’s The Last Supper and the iconic La Scala opera house is as impressive as its many celluloid representations, but designer fashion is what has made modern Milan famous. Gucci, Prada, Versace, Armani et al all launched their glittering careers on the city runways, making Milan a fashionistas Holy Grail. Muggy and virtually empty in summer, the city has never been a tourist favourite – reason enough to visit. Milan is a city of inner beauty, bland and industrialized on the outside, sizzling with imagination and flair within.