All you have to know about Milan, Italy

by vcppow review

► added on 14th of August, 2008

Milan, known for devotion to fashion and design, is the principle city of Northern Italy and a major economic force in Europe. The population of Milan and the surrounding area is over 7,400,000 making it the third largest metropolitan area in Europe. Located in the lush agricultural fields of Lombardy, it is a thriving commercial center and one of the richest EU cities, with luxury brands like Alfa Romeo, Bugatti, Prada and Giorgio Armani headquartered here.Fashion is a cornerstone of Milan life and shopping the favorite pastime. The oldest shopping mall is said to be the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in the Piazza Duomo.

Other plush specialty shops line the area and all the well known designers are represented. Milan is also a cultural hub with many Art and Historical museums and the legendary La Scala Opera House, which has recently been given a face lift. The art of fashion is put on display regularly during the evening hours when locals gather in cafes and along the promenade, dressed to the nines. Sport is also well represented in Milan which boasts a major soccer team and hosted several World Cup and European Champion League finals over the years.

Milan’s rich history is reflected in its castles, palaces and the Duomo or historical site of government. The Borsa Italiana, or Italian Stock Exchange is an interesting place to visit in Milan, as is the new Exhibition Center and trade Fair complex, Fiera Milano. It is easy to see all of Milan’s sites by using one of the three subway lines or the tramway system, which has more than 20 lines that traverse the metropolitan area. A metro runs from the San Raffaele Hospital to the Cascina Gobba station and there are over 93 bus lines. Milan is one of Italy’s main rail centers, with connections to all parts of Italy and throughout Europe.

Milan is serviced by two international airports, Malpensa and Linate and many international airlines. Both airports have transfer connections to the city center and many hotels. There is a host of hotels in Milan that range from 5 star luxury to simple pensions and hostels. It is a city famous for its risotto based cuisine and fine wines. Lombardy is truffle country and they are a favorite ingredient in many Milanese dishes. Coffee is a tradition here and is often accompanied by Pannetone, a rich cake that is a local specialty. Milan is a fascinating visit whatever your tastes.