Sophistication reaches new levels in Milan. The financial and commercial centre of Italy attracts fashion fundis, opera lovers, the young, the beautiful and the bold. Shopping, eating and clubbing is serious business here and it is no surprise that the city boasts the world's most beautiful shopping mall, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Equally vying for admiration are the Milanese icons of La Scala Theatre (Teatro della Scala) and the Gothic Duomo, one of the world's largest churches. Milan's frenetic pace surges ahead in its drive towards progress, forsaking the lengthy siestas enjoyed in other parts of the country. The city's urban tentacles stretch for miles, although the significant historical attractions are contained between the two landmark sites - the Duomo and the Sforzesco Castle. These reside within the inner loop of the city's concentric design, which is split into four squares: Piazza Duomo, Piazza Cairoli, Piazza Cordusio and Piazza San Babila. The modern civic centre lies to the northwest, around Mussolini's colossal train station built in 1931. The area around here is dominated by a skyline of skyscrapers from which the sleek Pirelli Tower emerges. The Fiera district that stretches around Porta Genova station is the nub for trade and fashion fairs.

Duomo (Cathedral)

Address: Piazza del Duomo 18 Milan

Admission: Cathedral free; Roof EUR4 by stairs, EUR6 with elevator; Crypt EUR1.50; Baptistery EUR1.50 Cathedral 6.50am to 7pm; Roof 7am to 7pm; Crypt 9am to 12pm and 2.30pm to 6pm; Baptistery Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 12pm and 3pm to 5pm; Museo del Duomo Tuesday to Sunday 9.30am to 12.30pm and 3-6pm

Telephone: (02) 8646 3456

The looming Duomo, the world's largest Gothic cathedral, presides over the Piazza that bears its name. Its construction began in 1386 and continued sporadically until Napoleon ordered its completion in 1809. Its lengthy creation bestowed on it 3,400 statues, 135 spires and 96 gargoyles. It is best visited in full sunshine when the interior is illuminated by the colourful mosaic of its stained glass windows. The church is a five-aisled cruciform seating 40,000 worshippers. The 16th-century marble tomb of Giacomo de Medici lies in the south transept and lying buried at its heart is St Charles Borromeo, the cathedral's most important benefactor. Every year in May and September a nail from the cross of Christ is displayed to worshippers and is retrieved from its resting place by the bishop who is hoisted to the nivola to reach it. Across the piazza in the Palazzo Reale is the Museo del Duomo that displays the treasures from the cathedral. It also houses the Museo d'Arte Contomporanea, showcasing a collection of Italian Futurist art.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Address: Piazza del Duomo Milan

This four-storey, glass-domed arcade is entered from the Piazza in front of the Cathedral and extends to the Piazza della Scala. It was originally built as a link to the opera house but has become a fashionable place to hang out, sip coffee or camparis, or take a stroll through its many exclusive shops. Milanese gather in this conservatory to escape the winter rains or to socialise after a busy working day.

Theatre Museum at La Scala (Museo Teatrale alla Scala)

Address: Largo Ghiringhelli 1, Piazza della Scala Milan

Admission: EUR5, concessions available Daily 9am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 5.30pm

Telephone: (02) 8879 2473

This world famous opera house rests on the site of the Church of Santa Maria alla Scala, its namesake. The Museum provides a wealth of mementos from the opera house dedicated to the nation's beloved composers and performers. These include Rossini, Puccini and Toscanini. Two halls are devoted to Verdi alone and contain memorabilia such as the spinet on which he learnt to play, hand-written scores and the baton given to him after the momentous reception of Aida.

Santa Maria delle Grazie

Address: Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie 2, Corso Magenta Milan

Admission: Church free; Painting EUR6.50 plus EUR1.50 reservation fee Tuesday to Sunday 8.15am to 7.30pm. Reservations are essential and visitors must arrive 15 minutes before allocated time of visit

Telephone: (02) 8942 1146

Located next to the church in the former monastery's refectory is Leonardo da Vinci's famous painting, The Last Supper (Cenacolo Vinciano). The fresco depicts the moment of Christ's revelation of the betrayal. Judas hovers to the right of the painting with his hand placed protectively on the bag of silver. Scaffolding covers the bottom of the painting (an ongoing restoration project), leaving the rest in full view. Controversy has erupted over the removal of layers of corrective over-painting completed in the 18th and 19th centuries. The painting has endured more than hot debate however as it escaped the bombing during WWII that destroyed the roof of the refectory.

Museo Poldi-Pezzoli

Address: Via Manzoni 12 Milan

Admission: EUR8, concessions EUR5.50 Free audioguides in English, Italian and Japanese available Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 6pm

Telephone: (02) 796 334

The Museo Poldi-Pezzoli contains a spectacular private collection that was bequeathed by its namesake Poldi Pezzoli to the city in 1879. Numerous masterpieces hang from the walls of the Golden Room with its vista onto a picturesque garden. Antonio Pollaiolo's Portrait of a Lady has become the symbol for Milan's own style and elegance and depicts the profile of an elegant woman. Other famous paintings include a Virgin and Child by Andrea Mantegna, Bellini's Ecco Homo, Piero della Francesca's St Nicholas and Guardi's Gray Lagoon.

Museum of Historic Art of the Sforzesco Castle

Address: Piazza Castello Milan

Admission: Castle: free. Museums: EUR3, concessions available. Free admittance daily from 4.30pm to 5.30pm (admittance until 5pm), Fridays from 2pm to 5.30pm Castle: Daily 7am to 6pm (winter), closing at 7pm in summer. Closed 25 December, 1 January and 1 May, Easter Monday. Museums are closed on Mondays

Telephone: (02) 8846 3700

The gargantuan Sforzesco Castle built in the 15th century is one of Milan's foremost monuments. It was restored after being bombed in 1943. The vast interior, which is broken here and there by smaller courtyards, contains three museums, the most notable of which is Museum of Historic Art (Museo d'Arte Antica del Castello Sforzesco). Within its collection of sculptures is the famous Pieta Rondanini, Michelangelo's final work. The picture gallery features paintings by Mantegna, Bellini, da Vinci and Fra Filippo Lippi. The two other museums within the Castle's ramparts are the Museum of Applied Arts and the Archaeological Museum.

Leonardo da Vinci National Science & Technology Museum

Address: Via San Vittore 21 Milan

Admission: EUR8 (adults), concessions EUR6 Tuesday to Friday 9.30am to 5pm. Holidays and weekends 9.30am to 6.30pm

Telephone: (02) 485 551

Within the Leonardo Gallery of the museum is a collection of Leonardo's ingenious designs from war machines to architectural visions. Applied physics is the focus of another room in keeping with the museum's tribute to the history of science.

The Gallery of Modern Art

Address: Villa Reale, Via Palestro 16 Milan

Admission: Free Tuesday to Sunday 9.30am to 5pm

Telephone: (02) 7600 2819

The Gallery of Modern Art (Civica Galleria d'Arte Moderna) is housed in the building, which once served at Napoleon's summer palace and was occupied by the famous statesman and Josephine between 1805 and 1814. It is now recognised for its collection of modern art with works by Picasso, Matisse, Renoir, Gaugin and Cézanne.

Portofino

Address: Milan

Telephone: (0185) 269 024 (tourist office)

Nestled in a sheltered inlet within the stretch of the Italian Mediterranean is the coastal village of Portofino. It has long been the playground for the rich and famous, attracting the likes of Humphrey Bogart, Sophia Loren, Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor and Princess Grace. It is not surprising therefore that its exclusivity and prices rose to match its holidaymakers. The scenic surrounds can be explored from the outlying nature reserve graced with cypress and olive slopes. Set off from here on a 90-minute trek to San Fruttuoso or a 2½-hour hike to Santa Margherita. Other sights around Portofino include its castle and the lighthouse (faro) with its breathtaking view of the coastline.

Cinque Terre

Address: Milan

Cinque Terre means 'Five Lands'. These are the five related fishing villages that nestle precariously on the cliffs overlooking the azure ocean of the Italian Riviera, off the country's northwestern coast. It is a picture postcard dream of sparkling clear waters and dramatic vistas contained within the tranquil embrace of the villages that are connected to one another by a scenic pathway that curves through the hillside among olive groves and vineyards. Monterosso is the largest of the towns and is recognisable through the huge statues carved into the rocks facing its shores. The village of Riomaggiore is quickly identified through the myriad fishing boats festooning its shores and is linked by the 'lovers lane' to the charming town of Manarola. Corniglia perches precariously onto the mountainside and is accessed through a steep climb and Vernazza's promenade and piazza have beautiful sea vistas.

Pinacoteca di Brera

Address: Via Brera 28 Milan

Admission: Adults EUR10, concessions EUR7.50 Open Tuesday to Sunday from 8.30am to 7.15pm

Telephone: 02 92 800 361

Housing one of Italy's finest collections of medieval and Renaissance art, the 17th-century Palazzo is by far the best collection of northern Italian paintings. Many of the masterpieces here are the work of Napoleon, who used the Palazzo as a storeroom for all the art he confiscated from public and private holdings and his a bronze sculpture in his likeness greets visitors as they enter the courtyard. Three of Italy's great masterpieces can be found here, namely Andrea Mantegna's Dead Christ, Raphael's Betrothal of the Virgin, and Piero della Francesca's Madonna with Saints (the Montefeltro Altarpiece).

Milan Aquarium

Address: 2 Viale Gadio 20121 Milan

Admission: Free Tuesday to Sunday 9am to 1pm, and 2pm to 5.30pm. Closed Mondays

Telephone: 02 8 846 5750

One of the oldest and largest of its kind in Italy, the Milan aquarium houses 36 gigantic pools filled with more than 100 different species of fish, living in recreated environments ranging from the Amazon to the Mediterranean. The main focus of the pools is more towards native Italian fish life, both fresh and saltwater, and plenty of exotic sea life from other continents. The Amazon freshwater pool contains a wonderful exhibit of the infamous piranha. The aquarium hosts events throughout the year suitable for the family and the library is one of the most important resources for marine biology and oceanic studies in Italy.

Orto Botanico di Brera

Address: Brera Palace, Via Brera Milan

Admission: Free Weekdays

The Orto Botanico di Brera is a botanical garden located behind the Pinacoteca di Brera in the centre of Milan, and is operated by the Istituto di Fisica Generale Applicata of the University of Milan. The garden was established in 1774 under the direction of Maria Theresa of Austria, transforming an existing Jesuit garden to be used by students of medicine and pharmacology. The garden has greenhouses from the 19th century that are now used by the Academy of Fine Arts, as well as flowerbeds and elliptical ponds from the 18th century. Orto Botanico di Brera is home to one of the oldest Ginkgo biloba trees in Europe and various other mature flora specimens can be found within the grounds; a true plant lover's paradise.

Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio

Address: Piazza Sant'Ambrogio, 15 Milan

Telephone: 02 8645 0895

The Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio is one of the oldest churches in Milan, built by Bishop Ambrose in 379-386 AD. Located in an area where numerous martyrs of the Roman persecutions were buried, it was originally called Basilica Martyrum. In 1099 the church was rebuilt in the Romanesque architectural style but the basilica plan of the original edifice was maintained, including a portico with elegant arches in the front entrance. In keeping with Lombard medieval architecture, the hut-like façade has a typically flat appearance. Of the two bell towers, the left and higher tower dates back to 1144 AD. Inside there is an apse mosaic from the early 13th century that portrays the Christ Pantokrator (Ruler of All), an inspirational religious and artistic artefact. The church also houses the tomb of Emperor Louis II, who died in Lombardy in 875 AD.

Antiques Market

Where: On the banks of the Naviglio Grande between Viale Gorizia and Via Valenza,Milan

When: Last Sunday of every month (except July)

The Naviglio Grande is the oldest canal in Milan, built in the 12th century, the stretch between the Darsena of Porta Ticinese and the bridge of Via Valenza being particularly drenched in olde worlde charm. Along the canal banks in this section about 400 vendors gather on the last Sunday of every month to set up stalls selling a fascinating selection of furniture, clocks, porcelain, silver, jewellery, dolls, books and numerous collector's items from comics to walking sticks. On market day the adjacent shops, bars and art studios all remain open, adding to the pleasure of browsing.

Milan Fashion Weeks

Where: Fiera Milano Exhibition Centre,Milan

When: February/March and September/October

Milan has a well-deserved reputation for being the haute couture fashion centre of Europe, and a stroll around the downtown 'fashion block' bounded by Via Monte Napoleone, Via Manzoni, Via della Spiga and Corso Venezia will have fashion fundis drooling over the collections of Italian and international designers concentrated here. The top designers' Autumn/Winter and Spring/Summer collections are showcased on the catwalk during Milan's famed Fashion Weeks, when the big names of fashion come to town. Celebrity spotting is a favourite occupation during the week, but the fashion shows themselves are reserved for invitation only. There are many peripheral events in which visitors can be involved during the week, when the entire city celebrates fashion in high style.

Oh Bej! Oh Bej! Fair

Where: Around the Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio,Milan

When: 7 December annually

The Milanese love Christmas, and start the festivities early on the feast day of the city's patron saint, Saint Ambrose, with the fair known as Oh Bej! Oh Bej! literally meaning 'So beautiful! So beautiful!'. The fair takes the form of a street market arranged around the Saint's Basilica, offering everything from antique stalls and buskers to roast chestnuts and candy floss. The fair provides an excellent opportunity to do some Christmas shopping, and is particularly enjoyed by children. The Saint's day also coincides with the opening of the season of the world famous Milan La Scala Opera. Contact the Milan Tourist Information Office for more information on +39 (0)2 725 24 301 or email apt@netitalia.it

Italian F1 Grand Prix

Where: Monza,Milan

When: 10 - 12 September 2010

Monza is one of the first tracks ever built, but for more than sentimental reasons it remains one of the highlights on the Formula One calender as it is also the fastest. The track is 10 miles (16km) north east of Milan.

Da Claudio

Address: Via Ponte Vetero 16 Milan

Food Type: Seafood

It may be a landlocked city, but somehow Milan manages to get some of the freshest seafood in the country and Da Claudio knows how to prepare it! Affordable and stylish, this is one of Milan's finest fish eateries. Most popular is the mixed pate, consisting of raw tuna, sea bass, salmon, red snapper, sturgeon, shrimp, prawns and cod which is eating standing at the counter with a free glass of presecco (sparkling wine). Open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 10pm. Closed Sunday. Reservations not accepted.

Ponte Rosso

Address: Ripa di Porta Ticinese 23 Milan

Food Type: Italian

With small tables dotted along the banks of a canal, this trattoria serves simple, hearty and unfussy fare. Guests can sample some Triestino cuisine by starting off with a mixed platter of cured meats called salumi friuliani, from the region famous for the most delicate prosciutto in Italy and the minestrone soup is to-die-for. Other favourites are Triestino sarde in saor (vinegar-kissed fried sardines) and for the carnivores, the manzo in salsa verde (beef in a herb sauce). Closed Sunday lunch and Wednesday dinner. Reservations recommended.

Il Verdi

Address: Piazza Mirabello 5 Milan

Food Type: Italian

This trendy Milan eatery earned itself the distinction of spawning the city's first yuppie scene in the 90s. The clientele are still young but the menu is much more diverse, offering something for just about any taste. Favourites on the menu include risotto with pears topped with a drizzling of balsamic vinegar, and the crabmeat and avocado salads are fabulous. Diners will find the right wine to ccompany their meal as the wine list is just about as varied as the menu. Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. Reservations accepted.

Premiata Pizzeria

Address: Via Alzaia Naviglio Grande 2 Milan

Food Type: Pizza

One of Milan's most popular pizzeria is bustling from early dinnertime until the night owls pop by for a late-night snack. The restaurant exudes a wonderfully rustic ambience with exposed copper pipes tracing across the ceilings of rooms overflowing with laughter and long, raucous tables. The wood oven pizzas are excellent while the menu of pastas and meat dishes is equally as appetising. Open Wednesday to Monday for lunch and daily for dinner. Reservations recommended.

Da Giacomo

Address: Via Pascale Sottocorno, 6 Milan

Food Type: Italian

Giorgio Armani and other trendy fashionistas frequent Da Giacomo restaurant, and its elegant dining area was put together by world-famous interior designer Renzo Mongiardino. The menu features a selection of traditional Tuscan cuisine such as grilled turbot, or linguini with scampi and zucchini flowers. Open for lunch and dinner daily, reservations essential.

Trattoria Milanese

Address: Via Santa Marta, 11 Milan

Food Type: Local

Established in 1933 and located down a narrow lane in one of the oldest sections of the city, the Trattoria Milanese has a three-beamed ceiling sheltering its long, communal tables. Serving traditional local cuisine such as risotto alla Milanese, with saffron and beef marrow, and an excellent minestrone soup, this is a favourite with locals. Open Monday to Friday for lunch and dinner, reservations essential.

Cracco Peck

Address: Via Victor Hugo 4 Milan

Food Type: International

Linked to the Peck Store, adorned with beautifully modern décor and with masterchef Carlo Cracco at the helm, this is a fantastic choice for a night of fine dining. Serving first class starters and mouth-watering mains, this restaurant was voted one of the world's top 50 by Restaurant Magazine. Closed Sundays.

Armani/Nobu

Address: Armani World, Via Manzoni 31 (restaurant entrance at Via Pisoni 1) Milan

Food Type: Asian

This eatery is the place to be seen! As part of a worldwide chain of exceptional restaurants, this is where trendoids can sample such famous dishes as black cod in misu sauce, as well as sushi and sashimi, while sipping on sake with gold leaf. Closed for Sunday lunch. Reservations essential.

Anema e Cozze

Address: Via Palermo, 15 Milan

Food Type: Italian

Famous for its Neapolitan pizzas topped with the freshest selection of seafood, such as clams, mackerel, mussels and sardines, Anema e Cozze is a firm favourite in this neighbourhood. It may not be Milan's most stylish restaurant, but it serves tasty affordable food and the fish infused pastas and other antipasti are also delicious. Bookings advisable.

Al Pont de Ferr

Address: Ripa di Porta Ticinese 55 Milan

Food Type: Italian

'Good cooking is the friend of living well and the enemy of a hurried life' is the welcoming quip you'll find as you open the menu. Known for its tranquil setting overlooking the canal with tables set out on the flagstones, Al Pont de Ferr is famous for its delicious fare. The paste e fagioli is a taste explosion with bits of sausage, and the tocchetti di coniglio (oven-roasted rabbit with potatoes), is a must. Or for those with a taste for cheese, order a tavolozza selection of excellent cheeses accompanied by a great selection of half-bottles of wine. Closed Sundays. Bookings recommended.