Arguably Milan is the world capital for all matters concerning style and fashion. It is among the largest cities in Europe with a population of more than 7 million in the Greater Milan area. There are several new construction projects under way in an effort to rehabilitate or revamp some of the industrial areas. Several acclaimed architects, such as Renzo Piano, Norman Foster, Zaha Hadid, Massimiliano Fuksas and Daniel Libeskind are participating in the development of Milans new skyline.



Both Izmir (Turkey) and Milan are bidding to host Expo 2015. Milans proposed theme is: Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life.

It is not necessary to pack a hardhat while visiting. The new buildings complement the citys rich history, while the overall growth of the metropolis demands expansion. Here is look at some of citys luxury hotels, best restaurants, and things to see and do while visiting.

Luxury Hotels in Milan

The Straf is a suave, sexy boutique hotel with 64 guestrooms designed with a provocative configuration of exotic woods, metals, and stones. The hotels bar is a stylish haunt with decor on par with the guestrooms and the lobby. Additionally, check out the sensual healing powers of the Japanese massage chairs in the spas chromo and aromatherapy rooms. Let me hear you say aaahhhh!

The Straf is located close by to Duomo Cathedral, La Scala Opera House, and Montenapoleone where the best of haute couture have shops. Townhouse 12 also is a boutique hotel that offers great proximity to local sites of interests to travelers. The elegant 18 guestroom deluxe hotel is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

The Petit Palais Hotel de Charme is a converted 17th century mansion located in the center of the city. Three of the hotels 18 guestrooms have a fireplace and a terrace. The stunning decor makes the place look more like a museum of style than a hotel. The Piazza Duomo, the worlds oldest shopping mall, is within walking distance of the Petit Palais lobby.

Best Restaurants in Milan

Foodies frequently flock to Antica Osteria del Ponte to savor Ezio Santins innovative gourmet cuisine the restaurants extensive wine collection. Chef Ezio opened the restaurant and then became an award winning chef. Previously, cooking was a hobby for Santin. It is all about the food at the Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia. However, the artwork adorning the walls by Paolo Ferrari is as appealing to the eyes as the delicious food is to the palate. However, it is like dining inside an art gallery at times. Owner chef Claude Sadler's of Ristorante Sadler is a culinary genius. Although Sadler's devotion to prime ingredients is viewed as obsessive by pundits, he always delivers with surprising tastiness from simple dishes, such as spaghetti roasted wild duck. The cuisine is Italian, and there also is a full bar. Reservations are recommended.

To Do in Milan

The southwest area of the city is among the best for bars and cafes. The Shocking Club is where you go to shake, find, probe, seek, or establish your groove thing. It is a pulsating dance club with VIP ambiance, multiple bar stations, secluded areas, and a great dance floor. It is big on fun yet cozy enough to be a smoldering nightspot. Milan has highly regarded venues for both theatrical and operatic events, such as La Scala Opera house and the Auditorium di Milano. The Teatro Piccolo is a foundation that has strongly influenced Italian drama since being established in 1947. Masterfully produced works can be seen at three different theaters Teatro Grassi, Via Rovello, and Teatro Studio.

Obviously Milan is hallowed grounds in fashion and design circles. It is the home of such fashionista stalwarts as Armani and Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, Ext, Ferragamo, Gucci, Missoni, Prada, Trussardi, Valentino, and Vuitton. These are just a few of the vendors of Montenapoleone. Top designers in home decor are found at the Quadrilateral in Corso Matteoti. Most of the shops are closed on Sundays.