Milan Travel Guide
Location
Northern Italy
Climate
Temperatures in the summer months (June - August) stay around a humid 30 degrees C, while winter months are damper and cooler. The city is protected by the Alps to the North, which protects it against more severe weather from the continent and the Mediterranean. More moderate temperatures, which will suit those planning extensive walking, occur in spring and autumn when Milan is also quieter.
Currency
Euro
Time Difference
GMT +1
Transfer Time
Milan Linate Airport is situated four miles to the east of the city, with a number of buses available to transport new arrivals, such as the 73 which can connects to the underground system and a regular coach system. Malpensa is 29 miles north-west of Milan, with an express train service running to the centre of the city in 40 minutes. Shuttle buses, which take 75 minutes, run between the two airports
Hotels
A trip to such as stylish city deserves a stylish hotel. Try the Hotel Principe Di Savoia, located by the Repubblica underground station, or the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Milano. The Gran Duca di York, although less sumptuous than the Four Seasons, offers a very central location in a 19th century palace.
Attractions
No trip to Milan would be complete without visiting the gothic wonderment of the Duomo Cathedral, the third largest cathedral in the world, which features stunning stained glass windows, as well as the Museo d'Arte Contomporanea. Art lovers may be interested by the Museum of Historic Art, situated in the 15th century Sforzesco Castle, while the Leonardo da Vinci National Science & Technology Museum displays some of the ground-breaking designs from the iconic genius. The Last Supper is also on display in the city, but be prepared for long queues at the Piazza Santa Maria.
Shopping
It's all about clothes in Milano, with every high-fashion label known to shopper forming part of the incredibly stylish landscape. Head to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele for the classic names, such as the original Prada boutique, or other streets in the Fashion District, such as the Via Monte Napoleone, Via della Spiga and Via Sant'Andrea. These are also great places to grab a cappuccino and watch the beautiful people go by.
Excursions
Milan is surrounded by some magnificent lakes, such as Lake Maggiore, Lake Como and Lake Garda - all of which can offer a fresh-aired trip for those feeling over-shopped. Other sites in the Lombardy region, of which Milan is the capital, include the complex of rock drawings located at Val Camonica dating from 8000 BC.
Family
The Europark Idroscalo Milano, complete with scary banana mascot, should keep younger visitors occupied once they're bored of history and Gucci, which features the interactive ride the Flying Fury. The Idropark Fila on the Via Circonvallazione Idroscalo is packed full of slides and aqua-adventures for all the family. Meanwhile, closer to town are the beautiful public gardens - perfect for picnics and games on a summer's day.
Getting Around
With a choice of metro, bus, trolleybus and tram, Milan is a very user-friendly city, especially with the integrated ticket system available which means a one euro ticket can be used anywhere within 75 minutes. Passes are also available for one or two days, with one pass valid for an adult and child. Taxis are also readily available.
