Milan

This fast-paced Italian city is famous for its fashion scene, and people flock to Milan in their millions each year to strut around the city, breathing in its heritage of huge fashion legends like Versace, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, and Bottega Veneta.

Sip espresso alongside Milan’s chic residents in Quadrilatero della Moda, the main square of Milan's upscale fashion district, before you can shop ‘til you drop in the high-end boutiques and designer flagship stores. There are a number of 5-star hotels around here too, if you want to holiday in Milanese luxury, but there are countless more affordably chic places to stay close by, too.

But for all its modern glitz and glam, Milan maintains its respect for the old, and culture-seekers will find beautiful historic architecture, ancient ruins, world-renowned art and opera at every turn. Spend the evening at La Scala, ‘home of the opera’. Or visit the Brera district, the artists’ quarter, filled with contemporary art galleries. And be sure to sip on an Aperol in one of the city centre’s terrace bars, with views of the magnificent cathedral, Duomo di Milano.