The Brera Gallery was officially established in 1809, even though a first heterogeneous collection with educational purpose existed already from 1776 – and then increased in the following years – alongside the Accademia di Belle Arti, requested by Mary Therese of Austria to offer the students the opportunity to study lofty masterpieces of art close up. Brera become a museum to host the most important works of art from all of the areas conquered by the French armies. So unlike other important museums in Italy such as the Uffizi, Brera did not start out life as the private collection of a prince or nobleman but as the product of a deliberate policy decision. Paintings confiscated from churches and convents throughout Lombardy with the religious orders’ dissolution began to pour into the museum in the early years of the 19th century, soon to be joined by artworks of similar provenance from other areas of the Kingdom of Italy. This explains why the collection comprises chiefly religious works, many of them large altarpieces, and accounts for Brera’s special aura on which later acquisitions have had only a minor impact.

Craving proper Milanese food? Risoelatte is the answer to your prayers. Set in a cozy, 60's inspired location (complete with an original and working jukebox), Risoelatte is the perfect answer to the eternal 'what to do for Sunday lunch' questions.

Uberta Zambeletti is a storyteller, and this shop is the one truly favourite fairytale she likes to tell the most. Wander around this cabinet of curiosities and discover how to live your own fairytale through clothing; how to look cool every day, at any moment.

Cute cafe designed by Wes Anderson at the Prada Foundation. The interior is in the style of a Milanese bar from the 1950s/60s and has a good selection of sandwiches, coffee and alcoholic drinks.

Tiny wine bar and store in Milan's Chinatown area, selling wine by the bottle and by the glass, alongside small plates/snacks. Friendly staff and great selection of wine. Always popular so be prepared to stand!