Although you may not realise it, Milan is every bit as romantic as Venice or Verona. In fact, it has its own canals and palaces that can make you feel that you’re in a tale about princes and princesses. It is true that Milan is one of Europe’s major centres for finance and business, and that it is famous for its glamorous side, being home to some of the world’s most famous and sought-after names in design and fashion. But behind this shiny exterior lies a romantic city, whose streets exude the magic so typical of Italian cities. Make sure you don’t miss out on any of the romance that Milan has to offer, with our suggestions for a visit that will earn Milan a place in your heart forever.
Spectacular views from the heights
Milan offers beautiful, panoramic views from high vantage points. From its cathedral, the Duomo, for example. Over 70 metres above the ground, surrounded by sculptures, statues and marble towers, you can enjoy one of the most spectacular sunsets you could ever imagine. The breathtaking view can be enjoyed every day from 9.00 a.m. onwards (that is when the city comes to life) until sunset at around 7.00 p.m. See how the city’s historic centre takes on different lights and brilliant colours.
Feel like a character in ‘Pretty Woman’ at the Milan opera
At the Teatro alla Scala, one of the greatest opera houses in Italy and, indeed, in the world, you can act out the famous scene from ‘Pretty Woman’, in which Richard Gere and Julia Roberts enjoy a romantic evening at the opera. The Teatro alla Scala dates from the eighteenth century, and its lavish décor will leave you open-mouthed with wonder. Submit to its charms as you fall in love while enjoying one of the classic works performed on its stage. But make sure you book your tickets early.
Pamper yourselves at a spa
Milan’s luxury and its love of beauty are also reflected in the number of spas in many of the city’s hotels, among the most prestigious in the world. The Bangkok Benessere Thailandese, the Spera Hot Yoga, the AmaTi SPA, or the Golden Thai Milano await you, offering a great opportunity for you to relax and enjoy treatments together. Treat yourselves to a massage or a beauty treatment to make your relationship even more special.
Visit Castello Sforzesco
Milan’s castle, Castello Sforzesco houses works by great Italian Renaissance painters such as Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. It also has a library and a museum. A romantic stroll around this fifteenth-century fortress would be a wonderful romantic experience in Milan. You can wander the underground passages or stroll around the pleasant gardens that surround the palace, the Parco Sempione.
A romantic stroll along the banks of the Navigli
Milan has canals, just like Venice. The canals are in the Navigli district, known by Milanese residents as the Navigli (internal link). This canal was rendered navigable in the fourteenth century in order to transport the marble needed for the construction of the magnificent Duomo. This is one of Milan’s most delightful spots, with old houses now converted into antique shops and with lots of places where you can have a snack, a drink or a dance. From April to September, these establishments’ terraces spread out onto the canal bank, lending even greater life and colour to the Navigli.
A stroll around the Brera area
To the east of Castello Sforzesco lies the Brera neighbourhood (internal link). Nowadays, it is one of Milan’s trendiest neighbourhoods. Its narrow streets are packed with charming cafés, street artists, and elegant and fascinating shops. There is a very interesting and original street market, held on the third Sunday of each month in Via Fiori Chiari. You could buy souvenirs and other curios in this pleasant market. Moreover, this district’s narrow streets and soft light as the day draws to a close make it the perfect place to share a few intimate moments away from the crowds.
Romantic restaurants in Milan
The perfect finishing touch to a romantic break in Milan is the chance to sample the city’s extensive and varied cuisine. As it is such a cosmopolitan city, it offers a plethora of restaurants of all kinds, from the typical ‘truly Italian’ establishments to those offering dishes from all over the world. But there are also perfect places to have dinner by moonlight, in a courtyard surrounded by gardens, or at a table in the city centre, in true Milanese style.
If you go in the spring, you’ll find a pretty garden with special flowers at the Al Freso restaurant, at Via Savona, No. 50. Here, the little tables are decorated with exquisite lamps, providing soft lighting and an intimate ambience. Perfect for couples in love.
A nineteenth-century house at No. 41 Via Marco Cremosano is home to the Ribot restaurant. Along with this establishment’s romantic atmosphere, you can enjoy its chargrilled meat dishes and its Tuscan cooking.
With pretty lime trees on its terrace, La Brisa (in the street of the same name) is one of Milan’s most romantic restaurants. It is in the heart of the old city, and every aspect of the place exudes elegance and good taste. Here you can enjoy the Lombardy capital’s mouth-watering typical cuisine.
