Milan, Italy’s fashion and design capital, is a vibrant blend of historic charm and contemporary creativity. From its majestic Duomo to sleek modern architecture, the city pulses with innovation and style year-round. But right now, the energy is especially high as Salone del Mobile is just around the corner. The world’s design elite, emerging talents, and curious travelers are all converging on Milan to celebrate groundbreaking ideas in furniture, art, and lifestyle—making this the perfect time to experience the city at its most inspiring.
This week, KHAMSA explores Milan with Dina Adlouni (@dinaadlouni on Instagram) who’s a brand and creative consultant with over 10 years of experience in fashion, design, arts, and culture. She has built a dynamic network of designers, artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs, connecting people to brands in authentic and meaningful ways. She studied fashion and design management at SDA Bocconi in Milan, a city that has always inspired her and deepened her connection to the world of fashion and the arts.
Top must-visit food spots?
Il Salumaio di Montenapoleone – Lunch or Dinner
Langosteria – Dinner
Da Giacomo – Dinner
Al Baretto San Marco – Authentic Cuisine
Sant Ambroeus – Dinner
Marchesi 1824 – Coffee & Bakery
Bar Luce – Coffee & Bakery
Pasticceria Gattullo – Coffee & Bakery
I love walking in the city, stopping by a café for a coffee and pastry, then discovering art galleries and design stores. It’s a city with so many hidden gems.
Must-visit cultural spots?
Fondazione Prada
Palazzo Reale Milano
Palazzo Citterio
Fondazione Luigi Rovati
Pinacoteca di Brera
Best places for an afternoon/sunset catch up with a friend?
Corso Como 10
Bar Basso
Portrait Hotel
Villa Necchi Campiglio
Milan is a city where vintage and contemporary blend so naturally. You can see it in the streets, from the architecture to the galleries and stores, and that’s what I love most about the city.
Must Visit Shops?
Nilufar Depot
Triennale di Milano
Bitossi
Antonia
Cavalli e Nastri – Vintage
Small Small Space
Best boutique hotels to stay in?
Room Mate Giulia
Casa Brera
Chateau Monfort
Underrated places?
The pink flamingos of Villa Invernizzi
QC Terme – Porta Romana
Brera Botanical Garden
Milan is not just about fashion, for me it’s about the architecture, the food, the people and the way the city moves.
What should you avoid?
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and Duomo Restaurants
Any tips and tricks to tackle the city?
- Use bikemi, you can easily cycle across Milan.
- Walk around and find hidden gems. The city is super walkable and some of the best
spots, hidden courtyards, boutiques, cafes are only found on foot.
