If you’re heading to Milan for Design Week, here are some things to do in between the different events in the Brera and Zona Tortona.
April is approaching, which means that Milan is gearing up for Salone del Mobile, or Design Week and Fuori Salone, Design-Week-related events around the city. Although the bulk of the city’s events take place in the Brera and Tortona districts, you can still admire installations that combine design, technology, and creativity in every part of the city. If you’re in Milan for Salone del Mobile, here’s a look at some ways to kill time between the different events.
1. Go to Mudec to see the Frida exhibition
Mudec (Museum of Cultures) has become a crucial venue for Milan thanks to its innovative exhibitions and its extraordinary permanent collection. It now hosts the exhibition of the season: A temporary exhibition dedicated to the great Mexican artist Frida Kahlo that opened in 2018. The exhibition revolves around the themes that dominate Frida’s work and is divided into four corresponding sections: ‘Woman’, ‘Earth’, ‘Politics’ and ‘Pain’.
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2. Stroll across Biki
The Porta Genova iron bridge has always been a necessity for those Via Tortona dwellers catching the subway at Porta Genova…and vice versa. Thanks to its urban and vintage charm, this bridge is where many models and aspiring models have their pictures taken for their portfolios. Despite the models, photographers and designers, the so-called Artists’ Bridge has been undergoing a restoration over the last few years. However, Biki–awalkway named after a famous Milanese designer–opened last year. Industrial materials comprise the pathway’s smart minimalist design, adding a sense of continuity to the railroad tracks over which it crosses.
3. Relax at the Darsena
After the Biki walkway, it’s time to explore the Navigli district, one of Milan’s most picturesque quarters and the hub of the city’s nightlife. Stroll along the Darsena, the historical Milanese port that has returned to its former glory after extensive renovations, having reopened in 2015. The red bricks, indoor market, pubs overlooking the canal and of course the people bring this place alive with a European–yet also typically Milanese–character.
4. Shop and sightsee in Brera
With cobblestone alleys, artisan shops, and high-fashion boutiques, Brera district boasts a unique atmosphere. Easel-toting students rush past the fortune tellers to get to class at the Brera Academy, all typical street scenes that help the district keep its bohemian charm despite the touristy pizzerias. Have a cup of coffee at Jamaica Bar – the place where artists and writers such as Ugo Mulas, Mario Dondero and Allen Ginsberg used to meet to discuss their ideas – and shop in the district’s super chic boutiques.
5. Eat pizza at Berberè in Via Vigevano
Between all the walking and showroom browsing, you’ll be ready for a decent meal or two. The new Berberè outpost on Via Vigevano is certainly the right place: all pizzas are excellent (especially if gourmet), but the Berberè Pizza is soft, fragrant, and topped with the most succulent seasonal ingredients. Every pizza is well worth a try, and it’s possible to taste them all thanks to the tasting menu. The selected pizzas are brought to the table one at a time, already and ready to be tasted by all guests.