Milan
Milan is a city that comes with an image of industry and glamour, and it does live up to the reputation. A lot of the time it reminded me of Manchester.
The large imposing Duomo is a sight to be seen. It has 135 spires and 3159 statues. It dominates the piazza and is stunning. If possible, go up to the roof and have a look at the amazing statues a bit closer.
Next to the Duomo is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. This shopping mall with small boutiques and restaurants is a great place to sit and just listen to the locals around you, looking chic going about their daily life. It is a great way to spend an hour or so. The Piazza side of the building is home to the Rinascente. The top floor of this store also has an amazing view of the top of the Duomo. It is a great department store which sells everything. I still have lots of pots and bowls that I could not resist getting from here, this was when I was just setting up my own home and they have carried with me ever since, along with some Christmas Decorations.
The Galleria connects the Piazza Duomo with the Teatro Alla Scala. Another place to sit and watch people going to the opera. It is a great entertainment for the evening.
For the designer shopping or even just window shopping, head to the Quadrilatero d’Oro. This Golden Rectangle is made up of four streets of pure fashion, the Quadrilatero d’Oro is every shopaholic’s dream. Head to the Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga, Via Manzoni or Via Sant’Andrea for the best of haute couture, with famous names including Armani, Prada, Versace and Roberto Cavalli.
Milan is a great place that does have a piece of my heart. It is a great gateway to Europe with the amazing train connections to other Italian Cities and he rest of Europe. Give it a go for a great weekend.