Milan

Looking around Milan, it's easy to see a passion for design and aesthetic. The architecture of the city features gothic designs like the Santa Maria delle Grazie and the Duomo di Milano; the art deco Torre Velasca and Museo del Novecento; and modern structures like La Torre Arcobaleno, Bosco Verticale, and Casa della Memoria.

It is virtually impossible to say Milan without mentioning the fashion icons that call the city home. As far back as the 16th century, Milan has been considered a fashion city. Along with London, Paris and New York, Milan is one of the four fashion capitals of the world. Design headquarters for Prada, Armani, Valentino, Versace, and Dolce and Gabbana call the city home. Twice a year Milan hosts Fashion Week, one of the most anticipated events in the international fashion industry.

As one of the major railway hubs for northern Italy, Milan makes an ideal place to stop and spend a few days as you travel the country. While Milan does not have the historic architecture and ancient buildings like other parts of the country, it holds its own when it comes to art collections. The Pinacoteca di Brera features masterpieces from regions conquered by the French army. Museo Novecento features more than 400 works from 20th-century Italian artists displayed in chronological order to showcase the evolution from early 1900's art to avant-garde movements.

Cuisine in this region differs from other areas of Italy. Combining the fruits, herbs, and spices of the Mediterranean with the cooking methods and pastry techniques of France, chefs were able to develop a flavor profile that is uniquely Milanese. An example of this blend of influences is the staple dish Risotto ala Milanese, a saffron-infused risotto. Indulge in the Milanese tradition of an evening aperitivo, a happy hour where guests receive a buffet of finger foods and sandwiches when they buy a beverage.