Italy

Milan

Activities:

Visit the Duomo: I would recommend purchasing a ticket that allows you to walk on the roof; there are some great views of the city.
Teatro alla Scala
Day trip to Lake Como: Very easy to get to Lake Como via train. We took the train from Milano Centrale to Varenna Esino. From Varenna, we went to Bellagio and Tremezzo and took the speed ferry from Tremezzo to Como to take the train back to Milan. Bellagio and Tremezzo are both very cute towns. However, neither town is great for relaxing at a beach. We found a park in Tremezzo where we set down our things and went swimming.
Shop along Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga

Restaurants / Bars: Dinner time – don’t go earlier than 8:30pm. You will end up with a couple of tourists in an almost empty restaurant. It is easiest to make a reservation for 8pm and just take your time at the table.

Da Giacomo (Via Pasquale Sottocorno, 6): A must. The food there is amazing, it is one of the classic restaurants, not stuffy. It’s known for their high quality food and wine list. There are a few versions of Da Giacomo. When making a reservation, make sure it is the one via Sottocorno.
Riso e Latte (Via Manfredo Camperio, 6): This is a fun spot, with excellent food, no tourist crowds, and made like an old 60’s kitchen. Make a reservation!
28 Posti: A cool spot in Brera. Strongly recommended. Make reservation.
Al Fresco (Via Savona, 50): A bit off the main street. Best to make a reservation in their outdoor garden.
Bottinero (Via San Marco, 3): Meat restaurant, founded and run by a former famous soccer player. The saffron risotto was the best I’ve ever had.
N’ombra de Vin: A really cool wine bar right across the street from Botinero and it is always packed.
Langosteria Bistro (Via Privata Bobbio, 2): Seafood restaurant; most of the dishes (pasta, main, appetizers) contain fish.
La Risacca 6: Classic seafood restaurant.
La Rinascente (the equivalent of a Bloomingdales/Saks): Located on Piazza Duomo and has a spectacular roof top with a view of the Duomo.
Rita’s & Rita’s Tiki Room: Amazing cocktail bars with great vibes and affordable drinks.
The bar tenders at Rita’s suggested the following bars: Ronin, BOB, NICO’S, Officina and Mag Cafe