car hire Milan

Milan's beginnings belie its current standing as a fashion-forward cosmopolitan hotbed of hipness and creativity. According to Celtic lore, a group of Celts spotted a wild boar in the area over 2,000 years ago. Given the pig's mythical status among the Celts, they took the sighting as a sign to settle in what is now Milan. They ran things here until the Romans came in and ousted them in 222 BC. In short time, Milan evolved from a stopping-off point along a trade route into the capital of the Western Empire. The city enjoyed an era of prosperity and harmony until it was brought to its knees by repeated barbarian invasions. In the ensuing centuries, Milan's leadership changed hands several times until it was finally incorporated into the Kingdom of Italy in 1860.

Malpensa International Airport offers easy hire-car pick-up in its terminal. If you've had your fill of the sleek, modern bustle of Milan's city centre (or if you've hit your spending limit!), there is no shortage of side-trip opportunities a short drive away. Cremona, less than 100 kilometres from Milan, is a town distinguished by its music – specifically its musical instruments. Since the 17th century this tiny town has been known to produce some of the most exquisite violins in the world. Back then they were lovingly crafted in the workshop of Nicolo Amati (and his more-famous colleague, Antonio Stradivari). Today Cremona's Scuola di Luteria is regarded as one of the world's elite violin schools.

Milan's Golden Quad is considered the crossroads of Milan's endless string of shops and boutiques. This retail haven boasts some of the world's most exclusive shops and emporiums. Among the preeminent names represented here are Gianfranco Ferré, Missoni, Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, and Armani. Travellers flock to the Armani Megastore, which is the flagship emporium of the Armani empire. Besides the expected dazzling array of clothes, this megastore also features a florist, a bookstore, and a Nobu restaurant, famous worldwide for its sushi (the original is in New York City). Prada has its primary storefront here too, and offers more of an old-school feel, which suits its venerable history (the brand got its start back in 1913).