I loved Milan even before I lived here. There was always something about its energy, its understated elegance, and its mix of tradition and modernity that drew me in. Now that I call it home, the city never stops giving me inspiration and new ways to see the world around me.

Living in Milan means embracing a fast rhythm, days full of energy, and a city that never stands still. Daily life is marked by small rituals: an espresso at the counter before the day begins, the yellow trams clattering past both historic palazzi and shining skyscrapers, the scent of fresh pastries escaping from bakeries early in the morning.

Milan has two souls: the sophisticated one, made of fashion, design, and striking architecture, and the intimate one, hidden behind courtyards, in the quiet alleys of Brera, or in the peaceful cloisters that feel almost secret. It’s a city that reveals itself little by little – to those who live it and let themselves be surprised.

My Milan is made up of countless small pleasures: a quick risotto alla Milanese in a trattoria, aperitivo by the canals when the light softens at sunset, or wandering through the city center on a Sunday morning when the streets are still calm. Over the years, Milan has also become a city that truly loves breakfast. From historic pasticcerie to modern cafés, the choice is endless – you can enjoy a traditional cappuccino with brioche, or explore new, international takes on the most important meal of the day.

There is also another side of Milan I cherish deeply: the sciura lifestyle. This is the world of timeless elegance – ladies who meet for coffee at historic cafés, afternoons spent between cultural landmarks and old boutiques, and an atmosphere that feels both refined and familiar. To me, this is where you really feel the Milanese spirit at its most authentic.

Some of the places that are part of both my everyday Milan and the city’s classic, elegant soul:

• Pasticceria Marchesi / the perfect place to start the day with cappuccino and brioche in timeless style.
• Brera / art galleries, boutiques, and cobblestone streets that make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a village within the city.
• Fondazione Prada / a constant source of cultural inspiration, paired with Bar Luce by Wes Anderson.
• Navigli / at sunset, this is Milan at its most social, with aperitivo by the canals.
• Villa Necchi Campiglio / a hidden jewel of Milanese elegance and calm.
• Cimitero Monumentale / an open-air museum where silence and art coexist beautifully.

And the classic Milanese favorites, loved by generations:

• Teatro alla Scala / the beating heart of Milanese culture.
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II / Milan’s “living room,” always full of elegance and history.
• Pasticceria Sissi / an icon for refined coffee breaks and sweet treats.
• Camparino in Galleria / the birthplace of Milan’s aperitivo tradition, just steps away from the Duomo.
• Peck / the gourmet temple of Milan since 1883.
• Bagatti Valsecchi Museum / an intimate house museum that tells the story of Milanese aristocratic life.
• Giardini Indro Montanelli / a classic park for a leisurely afternoon stroll, beloved by Milanese families.

Milan is a city I loved before living here – and living it now, day after day, makes me realize how much it has to give. Between its modern rhythm and its timeless elegance, it continues to surprise me, to inspire me, and to enrich me in ways I never expected.

Images and story by: Silvia Longobardi / @s_lo96