What a memorable evening last night at the Belfast Grand Opera House for The Barber of Seville, presented by Lyric Opera Ireland in partnership with the Grand Opera House, with the wonderful support of the Istituto Italiano di Cultura di Edimburgo!
As Honorary Consular Correspondent, it was a true honour and a pleasure to attend such a remarkable cultural event, together with Federica Ferrieri. A heartfelt thank you to Stefano De Angelis, the newly appointed Director of the Italian Institute of Culture in Edinburgh, whose presence from the very outset of his tenure speaks volumes about his commitment to promoting Italian culture across the region.
And it was truly thrilling to meet Vivian J. Coates, Artistic Director of Lyric Opera Ireland, and his husband at the end of the performance, both wonderful people whose warmth and passion for music are simply infectious.
Evenings like this remind us of the extraordinary power of Italian culture to bring people together and inspire.
Metro: Efficient system with 4 lines (M1-Red, M2-Green, M3-Yellow, M5-Purple)
Day Pass: €7 for unlimited public transport
Walking: Many attractions are within walking distance in the city center
Bike Sharing: BikeMi stations throughout the city
Day 1 – The Historic Heart of Milan
☕ Breakfast: Marchesi 1824
Address: Via Santa Maria alla Porta, 11/a, 20123 Milano MI Metro: Duomo (M1/M3)
What to try: Veneziana pastry or cream-filled brioche with a cappuccino.
Description: Founded in 1824, Marchesi is one of Milan’s oldest and most elegant pastry shops. Located inside the stunning Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, its refined atmosphere offers a perfect introduction to Milanese culinary tradition.
🏛️ Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano)
Address: Piazza del Duomo, 20122 Milano MI Metro: Duomo (M1/M3) – 2 min walk from Marchesi
Description: The Duomo is the iconic symbol of Milan, a monumental Gothic cathedral with an elaborate facade featuring 135 spires and over 3,400 statues. Construction began in 1386 and extended over nearly six centuries, reflecting evolving architectural styles. Visitors can explore the vast interior, including the nave and crypt, and climb to the rooftop terraces for panoramic views of the city skyline and the Alps on a clear day.
Ticket: Approx. €16 including rooftop access; advance booking recommended. Recommended visit duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.
🖼️ Museo del Novecento
Address: Piazza del Duomo, 8, 20123 Milano MI Metro: Duomo (M1/M3) – Adjacent to Duomo
Description: Situated in the Palazzo dell’Arengario near Piazza del Duomo, this museum showcases an extensive collection of 20th-century Italian art, including works by futurists like Umberto Boccioni and spatialists such as Lucio Fontana. The museum’s modern design incorporates a suspended glass walkway offering spectacular views of the cathedral square below.
Ticket: €10.
🛍️ Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Address: Piazza del Duomo, 20123 Milano MI Metro: Duomo (M1/M3) – Connected to Duomo square
Description: Opened in 1877, this is one of the world’s oldest shopping arcades. It is renowned for its magnificent glass-and-iron vaulted roof and intricate mosaic floor patterns, including the famous bull mosaic. The gallery houses high-end boutiques and historic cafes, making it a vibrant place for both shopping and people-watching. Tradition says that spinning three times on the bull’s testicles mosaic brings good luck!
🍝 Lunch: Riso e Latte
Address: Via Manfredo Camperio, 6, 20123 Milano MI Metro: Cairoli (M1) – 5 min walk
What to try: Risotto alla Milanese (saffron risotto), ossobuco (braised veal shanks), or cotoletta alla Milanese (breaded veal cutlet).
Description: This trattoria has a retro 1960s vibe, evoking the warmth of a Milanese home kitchen. It’s well known for classic local dishes made with traditional recipes and fresh ingredients.
Fun fact: The Milanese orecchia di elefante (elephant ear) cutlet famously competes with the Austrian schnitzel, with locals proud of their breaded veal’s unique thinness and flavor.
🏰 Castello Sforzesco & Parco Sempione
Address: Piazza Castello, 20121 Milano MI Metro: Cairoli (M1) or Lanza (M2) – 10 min walk from lunch
Description: Originally built in the 14th century by the Visconti family and later expanded by the Sforza dynasty, this fortress served as a military stronghold and ducal residence. Today it hosts several museums, including the Museum of Ancient Art and the Pietà Rondanini by Michelangelo. The adjoining Parco Sempione is a large urban park with ponds, walking paths, and landmarks like the Torre Branca observation tower.
Ticket: Museums €5; castle courtyards and park free. Recommended visit duration: Minimum 1.5 hours.
☕ Break: Starbucks Reserve Roastery
Address: Piazza Cordusio, 3, 20123 Milano MI Metro: Cordusio (M1) – 5 min walk from Castello
Description: Italy’s only Starbucks Reserve Roastery, located in a former post office building with impressive industrial architecture. Visitors can watch coffee beans roasted on-site and sample exclusive blends or inventive espresso-based cocktails.
🍸 Aperitivo: Camparino in Galleria
Address: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, 20121 Milano MI Metro: Duomo (M1/M3) – 3 min walk from Cordusio
What to try: Negroni Sbagliato, Aperol Spritz, or the classic Campari Soda with complimentary appetizers.
Description: Historic bar dating to 1915, perfect for experiencing Milan’s aperitivo culture (typically 6-8 PM). The tradition includes free small bites with your drink – a light dinner substitute for many Milanese.
🍽️ Dinner: Osteria del Binari
Address: Via Tortona, 1, 20144 Milano MI Metro: Porta Genova (M2) – 15 min by metro
What to try: Traditional Milanese dishes such as cassoeula (pork and cabbage stew), risotto alla Milanese, and seasonal polenta specialties.
Description: A cozy and authentic osteria near the Navigli area offering hearty local cuisine in a rustic setting, perfect for a relaxed evening.
Day 2 – Art, Neighborhoods & Green Spaces
☕ Breakfast: Pavé
Address: Via Felice Casati, 27, 20124 Milano MI Metro: Porta Venezia (M1) – 5 min walk
What to try: Pistachio cream-filled pastry or artisanal pain au chocolat.
Description: Pavé is a modern bakery-café beloved by locals for its innovative take on classic pastries, emphasizing quality local ingredients and seasonal flavors.
🎨 Pinacoteca di Brera & Brera District
Address: Via Brera, 28, 20121 Milano MI Metro: Lanza (M2) or Montenapoleone (M3) – 10 min walk from breakfast
Description: The Pinacoteca di Brera is Milan’s premier art gallery housing an exceptional collection of Italian Renaissance and Baroque art. Highlights include Raphael’s The Marriage of the Virgin and Caravaggio’s dramatic works. The surrounding Brera neighborhood is an artistic and bohemian quarter filled with galleries, antique shops, and charming cafes, perfect for strolling.
Ticket: €15. Recommended visit duration: 2 hours for museum + 1 hour exploring neighborhood
🍝 Lunch: Langosteria Bistrot
Address: Via Savona, 10, 20144 Milano MI Metro: Porta Genova (M2) – 20 min by metro
What to try: Fresh seafood dishes such as crudo misto (mixed raw seafood), spaghetti alle vongole (clam pasta), or fritto misto.
Description: A contemporary and lively seafood restaurant favored by locals for its fresh and authentic flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.
🖼️ Villa Necchi Campiglio
Address: Via Mozart, 14, 20122 Milano MI Metro: San Babila (M1) – 15 min walk from Porta Genova
Description: A stunning 1930s villa, preserved as a museum by the FAI foundation. The villa showcases the elegant lifestyle of Milanese high society with its original furnishings, private swimming pool, and tranquil gardens.
Ticket: €14. Recommended visit duration: 1 hour
💡 Alternative Option: If Day 2 feels too packed, consider visiting Villa Necchi on Day 3 morning instead.
⛪ Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio
Address: Piazza Sant’Ambrogio, 15, 20123 Milano MI Metro: Sant’Ambrogio (M2) – 10 min by metro
Description: One of Milan’s oldest churches, founded in the 4th century by St. Ambrose, the city’s patron saint. It is a prime example of Romanesque architecture, featuring a beautiful rose window and an intricately decorated altar. The crypt houses the remains of St. Ambrose.
Address: Piazza Gae Aulenti, 20154 Milano MI Metro: Garibaldi (M2/M5) – 5 min walk
Description: This modern district symbolizes Milan’s contemporary face, featuring innovative skyscrapers and the award-winning Bosco Verticale — residential towers covered in lush greenery. The piazza has interactive fountains and hosts popular cafes and bars, with Corso Como nearby for nightlife and aperitivo.
🍸 Aperitivo: Ceresio 7
Address: Via Ceresio, 7, 20154 Milano MI Metro: Garibaldi (M2/M5) – 3 min walk
What to try: Signature cocktails with stunning rooftop views of the Bosco Verticale.
Description: Trendy rooftop bar perfect for sunset aperitivo with panoramic city views.
🍽️ Dinner: Osteria alla Grande
Address: Via Pola, 9, 20154 Milano MI Metro: Garibaldi (M2/M5) – 8 min walk
What to try: Classic Milanese dishes such as ossobuco (braised veal shanks with gremolata), risotto alla Milanese, and traditional desserts.
Description: A traditional and warmly atmospheric osteria, offering a genuine Milanese dining experience away from the tourist crowds.
Day 3 – Renaissance Masterpieces & Contemporary Milan
☕ Breakfast: Panificio Pattini
Address: Corso Magenta, 31, 20123 Milano MI Metro: Conciliazione (M1) – 3 min walk
What to try: Pan de mej (millet bread), mini pastries, and classic Italian espresso.
Description: A historic family-run bakery known for authentic Milanese breads and pastries made with traditional methods.
🏛️ The Last Supper (Cenacolo Vinciano) & Santa Maria delle Grazie
Address: Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2, 20123 Milano MI Metro: Conciliazione (M1) – 5 min walk from breakfast
Description: Leonardo da Vinci’s legendary fresco depicting Christ’s final meal, housed in the refectory of the Santa Maria delle Grazie convent. Viewing is strictly by reservation due to limited access, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Ticket: €15, advance booking required (book weeks in advance!) Visit duration: 15 minutes viewing + 30 minutes in church
🍝 Lunch: Casa Tua Osteria
Address: Via Lomazzo, 25, 20154 Milano MI Metro: Garibaldi (M2/M5) – 15 min by metro
What to try: Milanese specialties like ossobuco, cotoletta alla Milanese, and seasonal vegetable sides.
Description: A cozy neighborhood osteria celebrated for its authentic, well-prepared traditional dishes and friendly atmosphere.
🎭 Fondazione Prada
Address: Largo Isarco, 2, 20139 Milano MI Metro: Lodi TIBB (M3) – 20 min by metro
Description: A cutting-edge contemporary art complex located in a renovated early 20th-century distillery. Known for its innovative exhibitions, the striking golden “Haunted House” structure, and the Bar Luce café designed by filmmaker Wes Anderson.
🏛️ Museo della Scienza e Tecnologia “Leonardo da Vinci”(Alternative Option)
Address: Via San Vittore, 21, 20123 Milano MI Metro: Sant’Ambrogio (M2)
Description: Italy’s largest science and technology museum with interactive exhibits on Leonardo’s inventions, transport, energy, and telecommunications. Suitable for all ages and interests.
Ticket: Around €10.
💡 Note: Choose either Fondazione Prada OR the Science Museum to avoid a rushed day.
🍸 Aperitivo: Navigli District
Address: Naviglio Grande area Metro: Porta Genova (M2)
Recommended spots:
Mag Café (Via Forcella, 6) – Canal-side with great Aperol Spritz
Description: Milan’s most famous aperitivo district along historic canals designed partly by Leonardo da Vinci. The area comes alive from 6 PM with locals enjoying drinks and free appetizers along the waterways.
🍽️ Dinner: LùBar
Address: Via Palestro, 16, 20121 Milano MI (inside GAM) Metro: Palestro (M1) – 15 min by metro from Navigli
What to try: Sicilian dishes such as arancini (rice balls), pasta alla Norma, and cassata cake.
Description: An elegant Sicilian restaurant housed in a Liberty-style building, offering refined regional cuisine in a stylish setting — a perfect way to conclude your Milanese adventure.
📝 Additional Tips
Aperitivo Culture
Timing: 6:00-8:00 PM
Etiquette: Order a drink and enjoy the complimentary food buffet
Popular drinks: Negroni, Aperol Spritz, Negroni Sbagliato
Best areas: Brera, Navigli, Corso Como
Food Specialties to Try
Risotto alla Milanese: Creamy saffron rice
Cotoletta alla Milanese: Thin breaded veal cutlet
Ossobuco: Braised veal shanks with gremolata
Cassoeula: Winter stew with pork and cabbage
Panettone: Traditional Christmas cake (available year-round)
Money-Saving Tips
Many churches are free (Sant’Ambrogio, Santa Maria delle Grazie exterior)
Aperitivo can replace dinner with substantial appetizers
Standing at coffee bars is cheaper than sitting
Parco Sempione is perfect for picnics
Booking Essentials
Last Supper: Book 1-2 months in advance
Duomo rooftop: Book online to skip lines
Restaurants: Reserve dinner spots, especially weekends
What an afternoon, speaking of the unspeakable—words lost in translation between different cultures, different worlds. Words that long to be inscribed on pages, carrying with them the history and traditions of the universe they belong to. And the passion that sweeps you away when writing, creating a bridge between devotion and everyday practice.
Thank you, Laura Imai Messina, for sharing your precious words with us. Thank you, Federica Ferrieri, for going above and beyond to organize this event. And thanks to everyone who participated and shared their thoughts.
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