Margaret Ross

Milan and the surrounding mountainous region of northern Italy, including the remarkable Dolomites, is an extraordinary destination with a unique landscape and culinary tradition, often overlooked in Italy itineraries. From February 6 to February 22, 2026, the Milano-Cortina region will host the Winter Olympic Games, with sporting events spread across cities, villages, and mountains. To get the most out of the Winter Olympics, see spectacular events, and appreciate the stunning landscapes of the region around Milan, here are the key things to know.

Monte Isola, a mountain that rises sharply from the middle of Lago Iseo in Lombardy, is Europe’s largest lake island. Shaped by geographic isolation, the tight-knit island community maintains centuries-old culinary practices, from traditional fishing to mountain cultivation. Unique island delicacies include sun-dried lake fish, mountain-grown olive oil, capers, salami, and wine from the surrounding Franciacorta region. Because Monte Isola is an isolated island in a mountain region, and is accessible only by ferry, the mountain’s traditions remain well-preserved and offer a unique glimpse into historic Northern Italian life.

Camogli is a hidden gem on the Italian Riviera that blends rugged coastal beauty with irresistible culinary charm. The seaside location makes it perfect for savoring fresh focaccia straight from the bakery while lounging on the beach. Adventurers can hike through olive groves to secluded swim spots or a remote monastery village. As the sun sets, the waterfront promenade offers the ideal spot for an aperitivo with panoramic views. With everything from crispy fried seafood to inventive drinks and melt-in-your-mouth granita, Camogli is a dream destination for food lovers who appreciate tradition and discovery.

Edinburgh is a small, bustling city full of life from eager students and hungry professionals. It can be hard to decide where to eat in Edinburgh when you’re sick of haggis and traditional Scottish fare. Rarely identified as a food city, Edinburgh has a burgeoning restaurant scene of innovative modern cuisine and international influences, from India and Southeast Asia to the Mediterranean. Brighten up the gray days with some fresh and exciting meals, plus casual activities to escape the crowds.

In Milan, major events like Fashion Week and Design Week are coming up that bring busy professionals to the city. Among the hustle and excitement, we all need to slow down and take a moment of self care.

This guide suggests moments of peace, serenity and warmth from the grey and bustling streets of Italy’s economic capital city. Milan might not always radiate the same laid-back dolce vita of southern Italy, but here you can discover the city’s rare moments of calm and wellness.

Make the most of one day in Milan! Milan is often overlooked on Italian itineraries and overshadowed by the big ones: Rome, Venice and Florence. While it might not be as dense with history, museums and sightseeing as those cities, the fashion capital is an important economic and cultural center of modern Italian life. There is the constant influx of major international events like Design Week, Fashion Weeks and countless conventions at Fiera Milano. The city is buzzy and fast-paced relative to the southern end of the boot. But still well-balanced with the Italian dolce vita culture. Milan is also a convenient day trip when visiting Lake Como, the Dolomites or other northern destinations. This is a guide on how to spend one perfect day in Milan.

Malta is an extraordinary archipelago nation in the southern Mediterranean filled with treasures to discover. With thousands of years of influence from ancient Greeks and Romans to French and British presence, Malta has been a strategic military base and point of cultural exchange for thousands of years. One of the world’s most densely populated places, it is also packed with history, culture and natural beauty. Enjoy the dynamic blend of Mediterranean languages and eclectic food over a long weekend with this three-day Malta itinerary.