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Six great reasons to visit Milan

Lago d'Orta

1. Lago d’Orta
Milan has such an urban swagger that it’s easy to forget how close it is to some of the world’s most famous lakes. If you have time to visit just one lago, try picture-postcard Lago d’Orta. The medieval towns, such as Orta San, are steeped in history, the scenery is breathtaking, and the whole lake can be seen in just a day or two.

2. Masuelli San Marco
Most of Munich’s clubs either overdo the glitz or the grunge, but the Atomic Café is an honourable exception. The taste here is eclectic, ranging over ska, rocksteady and bluebeat through vintage Latin to drum ’n’ bass. Parties and club nights Tue-Sat till late.
Viale Umbria 80, 02 5518 4138, www.masuelli-trattoria.com

Le Bicicletta

3. Le Biciclette
Le Biciclette is a former bike shop with cycles hanging from every free space, where a trendy after-work crowd gathers for a free happy-hour buffet. The monthly art show it hosts is worth checking out, as is the famous Sunday brunch.
Via Torti, 02 83 94 177, www.lebiciclette.com


4. Plastic
If is a hip nightspot that doesn’t take itself too seriously. The clientele is as eclectic as the music – from Eurotrash to electro and poppy house – but you’ll still need to dress to impress to get in. Gay- and couple-friendly, and loads of fun.
Viale Umbria 120, 02 733 996

Quadrilatero della Moda

5. Quadrilatero della Moda
Dedicated fashionistas pay homage to Milan’s designer shops with the reverence pilgrims offer to Rome. The Quadrilatero della Moda (Fashion Rectangle) between via Montenapoleone and via della Spiga is worth a visit, but for actual shopping, do as the locals do, and trawl through the discount houses (50-70 per cent off) such as Il Salvagente (via Fratelli Bronzetti 16, 02 7611 0328/www.salvagentemilano.it) and Dmagazine Outlet (via Montenapoleone 15, 02 7600 6027/www.dmagazine.it).

6. Low-price fares
Fly to Milan
• London Gatwick from £24.99.
• Up to 4 flights daily.
• All fares are single and include tax.

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