Founded in around 600BC by the Celtic Insubres before submitting to Roman rule in 222BC, the city was later subject to imperial French, German, Spanish and Austrian intrusions. Meanwhile, the governing Visconti family transformed Milan into an art and architectural hub. As a result, spectacular relics such as Leonardo da Vinci’s Il Cenacolo (Last Supper) remain inside architectural wonders like the UNESCO World Heritage Santa Maria delle Grazie church.

It was around 1980 that iconic fashion heavyweights including the likes of Versace and Dolce & Gabbana set up shop here, and fashionistas started flocking. The city is now the second-most populous in Italy after Rome, and hosts eight million visitors per year. Its chief draws, for the couture crowd that is, are the glitzy designer flagship-lined Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga. Maxed out your credit card? Duck into the tranquil environs of the restored Castello Sforzesco, followed by a wander around the immense Duomo Cathedral, which took six centuries to complete.

Food aficionados will have plenty to discover too, from gelateria and pasticceria serving traditional treats, to the Italianate delis offering cured meats and a feast of cheeses. In the world’s Michelin star list, Milan ranks fifth, and you’ll find many of its prime eateries in the sophisticated Brera district. For something more down-to-earth, look for Al Pont de Ferr, a well-loved osteria serving Michelin-starred pasta.

Access to the centre of Milan is limited due to the Congestion Charge Area (Area C) at peak times from Monday to Friday. This area includes the Cerchia dei Bastini, Milan’s historic centre.

If you wish to enter this area during this time, you need to purchase a ticket in advance. The ticket costs 5 euros and can be bought at a range of locations including ATM machines, tobacco shops, newsagents or online. The ticket must be bought before midnight on the previous day.