Milan: Italy’s Cultural Capital

The stereotypical vision of Italy includes pizza and palm trees, with a side dish of hot sun and sparkling waves. Visitors to the northern Italian city of Milan may be surprised.
For one thing, Milan is decidedly cooler and milder than its southern counterparts. The temperature ranges from 7 degrees in December to 30 degrees in August, with the majority of the rainfall occurring in October, November, and April. Snow is not unusual in the winter, but it tends to melt quickly. Milan itself is known, first and foremost, as Italy’s capital of business and banking. Travelers looking beyond its serious exterior are rewarded by unique food and cultural opportunities.
First of all, the food. Northern Italian food uses butter or lard instead of olive oil. Since the climate is colder, the food is heartier. Signature dishes include osso buco (tender braised veal shanks) and risotto alla Milanese (rice cooked in milk and white wine).

Cultural attractions include the famous opera house, Teatro la Scala, and its museum. And here in Milan, shopping itself can be a cultural experience. Options range from fabulous (Prada, Gucci, and Versace, among many others) to funky (secondhand clothing stores and handmade accessories).

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Finally, Milan can serve as a gateway to other regions. International flights generally land in the Malpensa (MXP) airport. From there, travelers can proceed to Milan’s central train station for connections to France, Switzerland, Germany, and other parts of Italy. Nearby, the natural wonders of the Alps and the Lakes compete for attention.
Milan can be the starting point for many things, or an adventure all on its own.