The thriving metropolis of Milan is now Italy’s principal financial centre, and although the city does not possess the aesthetic beauty of some of its Italian counterparts, it does gleam with idiosyncrasies and a vibrant, enthralling atmosphere.

Rivalling, if not surpassing Paris as haute couture capital, the Milanese are renowned for their love of shopping. Trends flourish and fade, food and wine is superb, and there is no lack of theatres and cinemas. Milan is one of those great cities that boasts all the sights and sounds - this city certainly works hard, but oh, does it play hard too.