Introduction

Milan is synonymous with style. It is the largest city in the north of Italy and a Mecca for fashion lovers.

Population

Milan has about 1.6 million inhabitants. Ninety-one percent of this second largest city of Italy is of Italian origin. Many immigrants are from Asia and North-Africa.

Location

Milan is located in the Lombardy region, a province in the north of Italy. It borders on the Alps and the river Po runs through it. Milan is located in the plains immediately below the Alps.

Economy

With 4.8% of the gross domestic product of Italy, the financial capital of Italy has the second largest share in the gross domestic product, after Rome. Milan is the nucleus of one of the richest areas of the world. The city is heavily industrialized. This exclusive city is famous for its fashion houses and shops, of which "Galleria Vittorio Emanuele" is known as the oldest shopping center in the world. Milan is one of the fashion capitals of the world. Together with Hannover, Los Angeles and Paris, "Fierro Milano" is one of the biggest exhibition and trade centers in the world. This new exhibition center is located in the north-west of the city.

Airports

Milan has a large international airport called "Malpensa International Airport" (MXP). It is located on the west side of the city. In addition to rental cars, the city can be reached easily with the Malpensa Express, a train. "Linate Airport" (LIN), which is located in Milan itself, is used for European and domestic transport.

Public transport

Milan has a suburban train network that connects the city to the regional and national networks. In addition, Milan has the "Passante Ferroviario", a subway. In addition to the bus network, Milan has an efficient taxi service, which is run by private companies. The taxis are white.

Traffic and Parking

Heavy pollution has caused Milan's authorities to reduce the traffic coming in and going out of Milan. As a result, none of the city's parking spaces are free any longer. It is possible to park in the center, but between 7 am and 8 pm it is paid.

Hotels

Hotels in Milan are fairly expensive. It is certainly advisable to book in advance. Sometimes, when the exhibition center is in use, hotel rooms may be very scarce indeed. Ask the tourist office.