Things to do in Milan
Dress up for a night at the opera
La Scala (tel: +39 02 88 79 1; www.teatroallascala.org) is one of the world’s principal opera houses. Its performances are eagerly anticipated and a major event on the Milan social calendar. The venue’s looming red and gilt boxes are so sought after they are considered a highlight of the opera’s behind-the-scenes tour. Book early.
Get the best views of the city from the cathedral roof
Grandly gothic, Milan Cathedral (tel: +39 02 7202 2656; www.duomomilano.it) is perhaps the most striking of all of the city's religious buildings. Constructed using light-pink Candoglia marble, the Duomo's most famous features are its pointed roof top pinnacles. Those with a head for heights can walk among them.
See a game at the San Siro stadium
Inter Milan and A.C. Milan, two giants of European football, call the San Siro stadium (tel: +39 02 4879 8201; www.sansiro.net) home. Tours explore the changing rooms and visitors can walk through the tunnel, and although the museum offers an insight into the rich history of these clubs, nothing beats the atmosphere of a game.
Take a seat at The Last Supper
As a destination, Basilica di Santa Maria (tel: +39 02 467 6111; www.legraziemilano.it) is a triple threat. Leonardo Di Vinci’s The Last Supper is its biggest draw, but visitors shouldn’t miss Codex Atlanticus, a collection of 1700 drawings by the artist. Both are housed in a splendid UNESCO-listed building with exceptional Bramante dome.
Walk the Via Ferrata routes in the Dolomites
A natural playground for hikers and bikers in the summer (and skiers and boarders in the winter), the Dolomites are three hours from Milan by car. Here, limestone peaks rise above green valleys and glacial lakes. Adventurers should try the Via Ferrata trails equipped with ladders, bridges and iron ropes.
