Elite Traveler HRS 2023

etr li at ve eler HOTELS, RESORTS & SPAS 2023 29

To wear by day...

Dolce & Gabbana Small dauphine leather Sicily bag, $1,495, matchesfashion.com

Casadei Webster loafers, $675, casadei.com

Marvelous Milan Arguably the most recognizable of Milan’s architectural icons, the Duomo is a magni fi cent Gothic cathedral and the third-largest church in the world. Five hundred years in the making (construction began in 1386 and was only completed in 1965), you can appreciate why: more than 3,500 statues and 135 spires make up this great building. Climb to the top of the stairs where you can walk along the roof (it’s safer than it sounds) for some close-ups of the spires and unbeatable views over Milan. Next, head to Castello Sforzesco. Built in the 15th century, the castle was once the city’s hub of power but today houses multiple museums and archives covering everything from ancient art to Renaissance history. Take a stroll around the beautiful grounds, and the otherwise busy Milan will feel worlds away. Of course, no trip to Milan would be complete without seeing one of the most famous works of art: The Last Supper . An experimental piece by Leonardo da Vinci, it has stood the test of time despite being a victim of neglect. Napoleon’s soldiers turned the monastery in which the artwork was housed into a stable in the 19th century, and during World War II the monastery was bombed, reducing the surrounding walls to rubble. Nevertheless, the artwork remains (although how much is the original painting is a hot topic of debate) and can be found at Museo del Cenacolo Vinciano. Make sure to book tickets well in advance as they sell out quickly. To conclude your sojourn, make sure you pick up a souvenir (read: handbag). Italy is the epicenter of high fashion, and Milan is its crown jewel. Start at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, opposite the Duomo, where the soaring arcade of stone and glass make for a grand entrance. Inside you can fi nd international favorites like Fendi, Prada, Gucci and Dior alongside smart eateries. Just next door, La Rinascente is your one-stop shop for high-end purchases (and it has a great view of the Duomo from the rooftop). For something a little di ff erent, visit Peck. A benchmark of Milanese gastronomy since 1883, this charming food hall is a haven for authentic products. As you wander around the city, Casadei’s loafers are a stylish yet comfortable companion. Wear with a classic Dolce & Gabbana bag for a put-together but practical look. Finally, keep time with a heritage Italian watch from Bulgari.

From top Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II; Armani/ Ristorante

Bulgari Serpenti seduttori watch, $8,550, bulgari.com

...and by night

Buccellati Colored cocktail ring, $50,000, buccellati.com

Italian eats On the seventh fl oor of the Armani Hotel Milano, Armani/Ristorante (armanihotelmilano.com) boasts thrilling vistas of the city, from the unmissable Duomo cathedral to the Porta Nuova, thanks to its fl oor-to ceiling windows. The menu brings seasonal ingredients to the table, taking you on a journey of Italy with an Eastern twist — think ramen alongside ravioli and sea bass with wasabi and yuzu. Simple, informal and retro are three words that come to mind to describe Trippa (trippamilano.it) . But it’s in these unassuming haunts where some of the best Italian food can be found. Its traditional and yet innovative menu uses the best quality ingredients, earning it a coveted Bib Gourmand. Uncomplicated, the restaurant has an old trattoria feel with a fresh look and a skillful young chef behind the scenes. The menu changes daily, with pasta, risotto, meat and fi sh specials. If you’re feeling adventurous, opt for the signature dish of tripe ( trippa is tripe in Italian). But be sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment. Pair a classic Italian dinner with an equally Italian out fi t. This dress (left) from Versace is simple but oh-so-elegant. And complement it with a fun cocktail ring from Milan-born high jewelry house Buccellati.

Sergio Rossi sr Twenty, shoes $1,100, sergiorossi.com

Versace Sweetheart-neck maxi dress, $4,320, farfetch.com

Photos Resul Muslu/Shutterstock.com