A Taste of Milan & Lake Como: 4 Days with a Local
A Taste of Milan & Lake Como: 4 Days with a Local
#TheMilaneseWay isn't just a hashtag — it's a lifestyle. When my college roommate came to visit for her fourth trip to Italy, I wanted to show her Milan through local eyes.
Day 1: A Milanese Welcome
Straight from the airport on my Vespa, first stop: late lunch at Il Salumaio di Montenapoleone, surrounded by the fashion-forward atmosphere of Milan's most iconic street. The day ended at Chiosco Mentana — the Friday night spot for Milanese in their twenties and thirties.
Day 2: Lake Como in All Its Glory
A scenic drive to Moltrasio for a luxurious lunch at Passalaqua, a boutique hotel on the shores of Lake Como. Then cocktails by the pool and the TeenageDream festival at Villa Erba — early 2000s DJ sets and nostalgia.
Lake Como Highlights
- Lunch at Mandarin Oriental
- Coffee break at Villa D'Este
- Visit Villa Balbianello (preferably on a weekday)
- Dinner at Le Luci del Lago
Day 3: Friulane Everywhere
Brunch at a friend's house in Milan — my American friend was stunned by the number of girls wearing Friulane shoes. Every girl had a pair, styled differently: with skirts, black jeans, boho dresses. It's exactly how Italians do it.
Day 4: Culture and Cappuccino
Cappuccino at St. Ambroeus, then another at Marchesi — the great cappuccino debate. Barry's Bootcamp, a stroll through Brera, a snack at Jamaica, and Fondazione Prada. Dinner at Casafiorichiari to cap a perfect Milan day.
