Milan

Milan: the global capital of fashion and design, and one of our top Italian destinations. If you're flying to Northern Italy, you'll likely land in Milan, and it's worth spending a few days in this stylish city to take in everything it has to offer.

When to go

Similar to New York City, Milan is best in the shoulder seasons - Spring (March - May) and Fall (September - November). Here's why:

1. Less crowded: Tourists flock to Italy in the summer, so it's great to avoid the crowds and overpriced travel fares

2. Seasonal ingredients: Italy celebrates the season's best produce, so you can savor fresh mushrooms, chestnuts, and greens

3. Ideal weather: Need we say more? It's much more comfortable walking around the city without humidity or icy temperatures

How to get there

Emirates Business Class for 90k points round trip + taxes

For 90,000 points (will vary depending on travel dates), you can experience an unforgettable Emirates roundtrip business class flight on from JFK to MXP**. Having flown business on ANA and American Airlines as well, Emirates is in a league of its own. Between the menu, seat design, Bulgari amenity kits, and service, every aspect of the flight is pure luxury. Not to mention, the exclusive bar which feels like you're on a swanky plane from the PanAm era. 

**A few notes:

• If possible, wait until Valentine's Day (February 14th) to book as Emirates often has discounts on the number of points required. This is how we booked roundtrip flights for our wedding in Italy for ~87k points each.

• Emirates offers the option of upgrading to first class if you have plenty of points and want to make the experience that much more special.

Getting around

It's enjoyable to navigate Milan by foot, and easy to take the metro if you're traversing neighborhoods. Follow these tips:

• Take the Malpensa Express: For €13, this train takes you directly from Malpensa Airport to Milan's main train station in ~50 minutes. A taxi/Uber would take just as long and cost at least €100. The train runs every half hour and has abundant luggage racks, comfortable seats, and free wifi.

• Get a Milano Card: If you plan to take the train often to explore the city, we recommend getting Milan's metro pass. It covers other local transit options and offers free or discounted rates for museums, tours, restaurants and more.

Hotels

While we typically lean towards Hyatts given their great point redemption values, we had a great experience at Milan's Marriott Westin Palace during our recent honeymoon. By letting the hotel know we were celebrating a special occasion like we shared in a past newsletter, we scored an upgrade to an amazing suite complete with its own full marble steam-room (see photos)!

• Top Tier

  • Marriott, Westin Palace Milan

  • Hyatt, Park Hyatt Milan

  • Hyatt, Galleria Vik Milano (a Small Luxury Hotel property directly in the historic Galleria shopping hall)

• Mid Range

  • Hyatt, Hyatt Centric Milan (right next to Milano Centrale)

  • Marriott, Sheraton San Siro (perfect if you're planning to catch a soccer game at San Siro Stadium. The aperitivo is next level!)

  • Marriott, STRAF hotel & bar

Card recommendations

Based on current offers available, we recommend the following cards as you plan your trip:

Chase Sapphire Preferred®

• Chase Sapphire cards offer best in class insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and valuable points for Hyatt, United and many other travel partners. You may only have one Sapphire card at any given point in time, and the lower annual fee of $95 makes the Preferred my suggestion for those getting started in the world of points.

Capital One® Venture X Rewards Credit Card

• If you already have a Chase Sapphire card and you’re looking to take your points game to the next level, it’s hard to compete with the value offered by the Venture X. Not only do you get $300 of your $395 annual fee reimbursed when you book any travel in the Capital One portal, but you’re also awarded 10,000 miles each anniversary year (equivalent to at least $100 when redeemed or transferred), and of course the $100 Global Entry / TSA Pre-check reimbursement. Last but not least, access to Plaza Premium lounges, including my new favorite lounge in NYC, the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse.

Eat & drink

One of the best parts about Italy is the food! Italians take immense pride in the freshest ingredients and Milan is no exception.

• Bar Basso - One of Milan's most iconic aperitivo bars. Get the negroni sbagliato in their signature large glass

• Ristorante Dalla Zia - A hidden gem serving seasonal classics like porcini mushroom pasta in a cozy tavern setting

• Salsamenteria di Parma - Known for their charcuterie and Lambrusco wine served in large bowls

• Piz - An unfussy pizza spot with crispy pies and sauce made using DOP San Marzano tomatoes

• Pasticceria Cucchi - Open since 1936, this pastry shop & cafe turns out delicious traditional pastries, cakes & chocolates

• All'Antico Vinaio - A takeout panini shop with fantastic made-to-order sandwiches

See & do

Shopping

As a fashion mecca, Milan has no shortage of luxury shopping to keep you busy. Some highlights:

• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II - Italy's oldest active shopping gallery and a major landmark. Here you'll find top-tier stores like Prada and classic Milanese restaurants.

• 10 Corso Como - A trendy shopping and dining complex filled with modern designer brands

Sights

• The Duomo - A stunning cathedral that took nearly six centuries to complete (1386-1965) covered in intricate details. Take the elevator to the top for a different perspective.

• Teatro alla Scala - Milan's opera house with gorgeous red velvet interior details. Try to catch a show if you can!

• Sforzesco Castle - A huge Medieval-Renaissance fortress with historical museums & art by da Vinci and Michelangelo

• Sempione Park - Right behind Sforzesco Castle, a sprawling park and gardens great for an afternoon stroll

• Bosco Verticale - Two residential towers in the Porta Nuova district covered in greenery. The name means "vertical woods".

• Santa Maria del Carmine - A striking brick Catholic church built in 1446