The Amalfi Coast may have been the hottest destination as seen on Instagram this summer, but September is Milan’s shining month. Italy’s preeminent fashion week, which takes place from 20-26 September this year, sees the cobbled streets flooded with editors, influencers and publicists running from show to show (many if you are wearing heels). But it’s the nights and downtime between shows where the city really shines.

Get ready for an endless parade of pasta, pizza, and wine…it’s Italy, after all.But the city is full of interesting art and architecture. Often hidden just behind intimidating large doors or in unexpected courtyards. See works by Leonardo da Vinci and take a short walk to Fondation Prada. Here, you can wander through his galleries of unexpected modern art and end the day with a Negroni or a large dose of Gianduia his gelato. However, it is a city that can be enjoyed with all five senses.

Before you book your next visit, we recommend attending a runway show or bookmarking fashion insider recommendations for everything from five-star hotels to hidden lunch spots for your own enjoyment. To do. And of course shopping.

accommodation

For a luxurious experience, artist Jenny Walton We recommend the 5-star Grand Hotel (if you get the chance, stop by the jeweler Gioielleria Pennisi on the ground floor). For a more affordable option, it’s her suggestion that her roommate Julia is centrally located. “You can wake up and have breakfast at Marchesi in Galleria (then shop at Prada).” If you prefer a modern approach, try Viu Hotel Her Milano. It’s a bit far from the city center, but the rooftop deck (and pool) offers great views. Publicist Federica Paruccini’s go-to hotel is Hotel Senato. For me, it’s an oasis from the MFW madness. ”

where to have dinner

Da Giacomo is a popular destination for those who want to see and be seen during Fashion Week. Another favorite (hidden) in the Brera district is La Lateria. Tip from Walton: “[There are] No reservations so you need to go early as it is very small. ” for The Cutsenior fashion writer Emilia Petrarca, hard to go wrong in Milan, but she keeps an inside secret. They recommended it, and I trust their taste more than anyone else,” she says. “I’ve been on every visit since. Nothing fancy, but that’s why I like it. There are also tables in the public square and you can watch someone get slapped.” Have you ever been. Classic!”

La Specialita is one of Puccarini’s recommended restaurants if visiting the city, especially if you have a special dietary need. “It’s an extensive menu and always caters for any dish that’s hard to find in Milan,” she says. “It is family run and by extension the owners and staff treat you like family. This is one of my favorites in Milan…every restaurant has a unique family atmosphere , makes the city feel like home.” She also recommends Lugantino, a Roman restaurant that proposes for large groups.

where to have lunch

Speaking of lunchtime, pasta seems to be the theme ( teeth Italy after all). “Maybe I shouldn’t say this because there are only a few tables, but it’s pasta fresca brambilla,” Petrarca says. The last time she went, the lady making the pasta served it directly from the kitchen. “Delicious spaghetti from the Bvlgari Hotel. She loves Pomodoro, and Armani pasta is excellent,” she says. If you’re in the mood for more pizza, Puccarini recommends Paper Moon. “Why can’t we have pizza for lunch like this in America?” she says. She said, “In Milan, I eat a whole pie, drink a small glass of wine, and an hour later sit front row greeting her press.

place to drink

“Everybody says Bar Basso, and they’re not wrong,” says Petrarca of the Milan bar where the Negroni was first invented. “It may seem gimmicky, but it’s worth it.” If you’re looking for a drink with a view, Walton recommends his sunset drink at his upstairs bar at the Armani Hotel. If you’re near the Duomo, head to Cracco. His Marchesi pastry shop is popular for snacks and drinks between shows.

A place to stop for coffee between shows

Marchesi is great for an evening drink, but it’s also popular as a morning coffee. Petrarca suggests visiting Prada Her Marchesi by the Duomo. “It’s like going to a plaza for tea and just making it Prada (and Italian),” she says. If you want an afternoon or evening espresso (Italians usually put milk in their morning coffee, but straight after 11am), check out Bianco Latte. “This is a new spot, open from morning to night,” says Puccarini. “It’s very Italian and you won’t find Americans.”

where to shop

Milan is a shopping city. While you’ll find iconic Italian brands such as Gucci, Prada, and Bottega Veneta, the city also boasts an impressive vintage selection. “Try Cavalli e Nastri or Madame Pauline,” suggests Walton. 10 Corso he Como (and its outlets) is also a popular destination. A final tip from Petrarca: ‘For gift giving, also go to the top floor of La Rinascente Mall, where you’ll find nice packaged food that easily fits in your suitcase.’

Tourist attractions

According to both Petrarca and Walton, Fondazione Prada is a must if you have time in town. You can also stop by Bar Ruth, an attached cafe designed by Wes Anderson. “Depending on the time, you can go on a simple trip. [Lake] Have lunch in Como,” suggests Paluccini. “Twenty minutes by train. When you’re there, hop in a taxi and go to Villa d’Este for a nice glass of wine or stroll through town. It’s so beautiful and peaceful.”

Where to Find Zen Moments

When Walton needs a break, he heads to Parco Sempione or Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli. When Petrarch needs a break, she turns to the zen of luxury. “Bulgari Hotel,” she suggests. “I couldn’t afford to stay here, but their gardens are hidden and incredibly gorgeous.” We propose to visit La Viña di Leonardo, a hidden vineyard behind the old house. “Probably the most beautiful place in Milan,” she says. When all else fails, a plate of fresh pasta and red wine is always a good way to relax.