Milan—famed for its fashion runways and gourmet cuisine—also hides a treasure trove of art and culture that most tourists miss. But thanks to Lufthansa’s Milan Insider series, we’re taking you deep into the heart of this historical city, where travel influencer Tanya Khanijow joins forces with Milanese art expert Elisabetta Roncati to reveal the city’s artistic evolution.Get ready to go beyond the brochure and discover the real Milan, from its ancient roots to modern-day masterpieces.
From ancient marvels to modern masterpieces
Day 1 of the series kicks off with Tanya landing in Milan, greeted by the city’s vibrant culture and artistic flair. But this isn’t your typical tourist route. Armed with insider knowledge from Elisabetta, Tanya embarks on a journey that explores Milan’s transformation through time—starting from its Celtic and Roman roots, through the grandeur of the Middle Ages, and into the bold strokes of its modern-day identity.

The Duomo di Milano: A living canvas of art history
The iconic Duomo di Milano is the perfect starting point for this journey. With over 3,400 statues adorning its façade, the cathedral is more than just a landmark—it’s a towering testament to centuries of artistic mastery. As Tanya gazes up at the intricate sculptures, Elisabetta reveals fascinating details that most visitors overlook. “It’s not just a building—it’s a story, with each statue representing different moments in history,” she explains. Tanya is left in awe, realizing the cathedral is essentially an outdoor museum that spans centuries. Talk about history in 3D!
Sforza Castle: Where Milan’s art and power converge
Next, they explore Sforza Castle, a fortress that once housed Milan’s rulers and is now home to some of the world’s greatest artistic treasures. Elisabetta takes Tanya through the corridors, explaining how this grand castle served as a political and artistic hub. And here’s a fun fact—Leonardo da Vinci himself worked on projects within these very walls, further cementing Milan’s place in art history.

Navigli Canals: Designed by Da Vinci, flowing with culture
The journey wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Navigli canals—a network designed in part by da Vinci to boost the city’s trade routes. But today, these canals are not just an engineering marvel—they’re the heartbeat of Milan’s social and cultural life, lined with galleries, cafes, and studios. Elisabetta shares the fascinating story of how these canals evolved over centuries, while Tanya captures the picturesque waterways, bringing viewers a fresh perspective on this vibrant part of the city.
The insider’s edge: Travel like a local
Exploring Milan like an insider means skipping the tourist clichés and embracing local life. Elisabetta shares essential tips on navigating the city—like a true Milanese. Whether it’s mastering the efficient public transport system or understanding the unspoken cultural etiquette, Tanya learns what it really takes to move through Milan with ease and confidence. No taxis needed here—just a metro card and some insider know-how!

The soul of Milan: Where art, history, and life collide
Through Elisabetta’s expert narration, viewers are treated to an intimate look at how Milan’s past shapes its present. From the ancient ruins hidden beneath the city streets to the Renaissance masterpieces in its museums, each corner of Milan tells a story that connects art, culture, and everyday life. Tanya marvels at how seamlessly the city blends the old with the new, making every street feel like an open-air gallery.

What’s next? Stay tuned for fashion, food, and more
Day 1 is just the beginning of this insider journey through Milan. Over the next few days, Tanya will dive even deeper into the city, exploring its fashion-forward streets, indulging in its rich culinary delights, and unearthing hidden gems that only locals know. If you think Milan’s art scene is impressive, just wait until you see what comes next!
Visual storytelling: Bringing milan to life
Through visually stunning Instagram reels and YouTube videos, the energy of Milan’s art and culture leaps off the screen. From Tanya and Elisabetta standing before the Duomo to their canal-side chats along Navigli, viewers get to experience Milan as if they’re right there, soaking in the city’s rich artistic heritage. So, grab your virtual passport, because this is one Milanese adventure you won’t want to miss.
Disclaimer: This article has been produced on behalf of Lufthansa by Times Internet’s Spotlight team.