ITALY 2026 CITY GUIDE

Climb to the rooftop terraces among the Gothic spires — the single best view in Milan, best in morning light before the heat.

Europe's oldest shopping gallery — the ornate iron-and-glass arcade connecting the Duomo to La Scala, lined with historic cafés.

Cobblestone lanes, the Pinacoteca di Brera art gallery, independent boutiques, and some of Milan's best coffee bars.

Milan's aperitivo heartland — the Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese lined with bars, vintage markets, and studios still open from mid-morning.

The 18th-century Reggia di Monza — the race circuit runs through its vast royal park, and the palace interior is open for guided tours.

The classic Milanese tradition — find a bar in Brera or the Navigli and enjoy the free buffet that comes with a spritz from around 6pm.

The charming historic centre of Monza — the Iron Crown of Lombardy is kept in the Cathedral, just minutes from the circuit entrance.

September in Lombardy is perfect gelato season — seek out the best artisan parlours in Monza or Brera for the race-day ritual.

Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper — an extraordinary experience available if you book months in advance. Numbers strictly limited.

Europe's most beautiful lake — the train to Como takes 40 minutes, and the ferry network opens up Bellagio, Varenna, and the lake's astonishing Villa del Balbianello.

The Quadrilatero della Moda and the Porta Nuova skyline district — for deeper Milan, Castello Sforzesco and the Leonardo museum are both excellent.

A short train ride to one of Italy's most perfectly preserved medieval upper cities — Bergamo Alta's fortress walls, Piazza Vecchia, and views to the Alps.