My Milan City Guide: My Favorite Places to Eat, Explore, and Vintage Hunt
sharing my favorite vintage shops, museums, restaurants and hidden spots
Two weeks ago, I found myself back in Milan for Salone del Mobile, the city's annual design fair, and, as always, it completely stole my heart. Milan has this unique quality. It’s understated on the surface, but if you take the time to wander, you'll uncover so many special places hidden behind its facades.
I wanted to share some of my favorite spots in Milan. These are places I always return to, along with a few new gems I discovered this time. Whether you're planning a trip soon or just saving ideas for later, I hope this guide will inspire you to experience a quieter, more layered Milan, the version that’s often missed on the typical tourist route.
This is also the beginning of a new series I’m launching: city guides based on the places I visit, filled with personal favorites, hidden gems, and the kind of addresses I always seek out when traveling. I hope they inspire your future trips.
What to See:
Villa Necchi Campiglio – I never miss a visit when I’m in Milan. Designed by Piero Portaluppi in the 1930s, the villa is an architectural gem, and every single detail is a feast for the eyes. It's a place that invites you to slow down and take it all in. One of my favorite parts of the villa is the room that houses original works by Pablo Picasso, Lucio Fontana, Henri Matisse, and Amedeo Modigliani.
You might recognize the villa from the I Am Love movie, starring Tilda Swinton. It’s such a stunning place to see on screen, but nothing compares to experiencing it in person. I love sitting in the garden when the weather’s nice. It’s a peaceful, hidden oasis that feels miles away from the busy city, but it’s right in the heart of Milan. I always leave feeling inspired and a little bit calmer.
Casa Museo Boschi Di Stefano - a true hidden gem in Milan, offering free entrance to explore an extraordinary 20th-century art collection (just make sure to pre-book your visit on the website). Housed in a historic building designed by Piero Portaluppi, it feels like stepping into a stylish, art-filled Milanese apartment, with works by Lucio Fontana and other modern masters.
Fondazione Prada – Always a must. The art exhibitions are fantastic and the architecture alone is worth the trip. Don’t miss Bar Luce, designed by Wes Anderson, it’s the perfect spot for an aperitivo or a casual lunch, with its playful, cinematic atmosphere.
Galleria Massimo de Carlo – One of my favorite contemporary art galleries in Milan. The space is always impeccably curated.
Poldi Pezzoli Museum - This 19th-century house-museum is tucked away near Teatro alla Scala, filled with Renaissance masterpieces. What I love most is how the museum preserves the atmosphere of a private home, making it feel more like stepping into someone's personal art collection than a traditional museum.
Galleria d'Arte Moderna (GAM) - a beautiful villa with a stunning collection of 19th- and early 20th-century art. The gorgeous courtyard adds to the charm, making it the perfect spot to enjoy masterpieces by Hayez, Segantini, and early Picasso in a serene setting.
La Vigna di Leonardo – a hidden gem in the heart of Milan. This historic vineyard once belonged to Leonardo da Vinci, and visiting it feels like stepping into a piece of history. The peaceful garden and vineyard offer a serene escape from the bustling city. It’s located near the Santa Maria delle Grazie church, where Leonardo painted The Last Supper.
Lucio Fontana’s iconic Ear Door Entrance – one of my favorite hidden spots in Milan. It was crafted in 1930 in collaboration with sculptor Adolfo Wildt and artist Luigi Broggini. Tucked away at Via Serbelloni 10, just a short walk from Villa Necchi, it’s such a special little detail, a bronze ear originally designed to work as an early intercom. Visitors would announce themselves by speaking directly into the ear.
Where to Eat:
(Perfect for a coffee break, long lunch, or late dinner.)