How to visit Franciacorta from Milan: what makes Italy’s traditional-method sparkling wine special, guided tours vs self-drive, the best estates, Lake Iseo and Monte Isola.
The best villas and gardens on Lake Como: Villa del Balbianello, Villa Carlotta, Villa Melzi, Villa Serbelloni, Villa Monastero, when to go and how to visit them by boat.
How to ride the Bernina Express from Milan and Lake Como to St Moritz: tours vs independent travel, the best seats, Valtellina wine and a night in the Engadine.
Milan for style lovers: the Quadrilatero della Moda, Villa Necchi Campiglio, Fondazione Prada, the Triennale, Armani/Silos, the Salone del Mobile and where to drink like a local.
How to plan Milan: Duomo rooftop tickets, the Teatro alla Scala museum, Castello Sforzesco and the Pietà Rondanini, shopping in the Quadrilatero, aperitivo on the Navigli and a two-day itinerary.