Esencia

Milan, Italy

Where Style Meets the Gateway to the North. Milan is the heartbeat of Italian fashion—sleek, confident, and always a step ahead. But beyond its runway-ready streets and iconic shopping avenues, it’s also the perfect launchpad for some of Italy’s most breathtaking escapes. From here, the shimmering waters of Lake Como, the storybook canals of Venice, and the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites are all within reach. Whether you're sipping an aperitivo in a hidden courtyard, strolling beneath the gothic spires of the Duomo, or planning day trips to the Italian Riviera, Milan offers the rare blend of cosmopolitan energy and proximity to nature’s grandeur. It’s not just a destination—it’s a stylish beginning.

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Dream

Four Seasons Milan
A beautifully restored 15th-century convent in the heart of the fashion district. The lush courtyard and buzzing lobby bar make it a refined oasis after a day in the city. Ideal location for exploring Via Montenapoleone and Milan’s glamorous design scene.

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Dine

  • Il Salumaio di Montenapoleone: Elegant courtyard dining with classic Milanese dishes and impeccable service. A hidden gem just steps from the fashion district.

  • Luna Rossa: A casual and charming spot for wood-fired pizza and Italian comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere.

  • Bacaro Montenapoleone: Great for a stylish, low-key lunch in between shopping stops. Italian small plates with a modern touch.

  • Zelo (at Four Seasons): Refined seasonal Italian cuisine in an understated luxury setting. A good choice for dinner or a sophisticated lunch.

  • La Briciola: A classic Milan institution with warm interiors and a lively local crowd. Traditional dishes, big personality.

  • Paper Moon Giardino: Set in a tranquil garden courtyard, this upscale restaurant serves Milanese and Mediterranean classics with polished flair.

  • Langosteria: One of Milan’s most sought-after tables. High-end seafood and pasta, modern decor, and a serious wine list.

  • Bar Luce (Fondazione Prada): Designed by Wes Anderson, this pastel-toned café inside Fondazione Prada is playful, retro, and perfect for a stylish lunch or coffee break.

  • Four Seasons Bar: One of Milan’s best places for aperitivo. Elegant lounge setting with Milanese classics and expertly made cocktails.

  • Cova & Marchesi: Milan’s most iconic pasticcerias. Head to either for a classic espresso and pastry, or pick up signature Milanese cakes and chocolates.

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Do

  • The Duomo: An awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral with centuries of history and intricate spires. Head to the rooftop for panoramic city views. Book tickets online to skip the queue.

  • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: This 19th-century glass-vaulted shopping arcade is a masterpiece of architecture and fashion. Even if just window shopping, it’s a must-see.

  • Teatro alla Scala (La Scala Opera House): One of the most renowned opera houses in the world. Even without a show, the museum and interior tours are well worth it.

  • Castello Sforzesco: A grand fortress-turned-museum complex. Stroll through the grounds or dive into the collections of art, history, and design.

  • Leonardo’s The Last Supper: Located at Santa Maria delle Grazie, this is one of the most iconic artworks in the world. Access is extremely limited, book through a tour operator well in advance.

  • Shopping in Via Montenapoleone: Milan’s premier luxury shopping street. A showcase of the world's finest fashion houses and Italian style.

  • Other Museums & Galleries: Milan is full of cultural treasures: Pinacoteca di Brera, Museo del Novecento, and the contemporary exhibits at Fondazione Prada are all worth exploring.

Your next vacation awaits.