we started our italian adventure with 2 nights in milan and had a blast. milan's food scene was awesome, enjoyed aperitivo and of course, shopping.
stay
we stayed at the nh collection president in central milan, only a 10 minute walk from the duomo. rooms were clean, modern and pet friendly. we scored a great deal on hotels.com for the room. the exterior of the hotel was under construction, so it was slightly difficult to access, but once we got inside, we were greeted by a large and stylish lobby with a very friendly concierge who got us into a room (and upgraded us!) before official check in time. we all took a major jet-lag induced nap before heading out to explore the city.
shop
it goes without saying, i LOVE to shop. milan's dog shopping scene is ON POINT. if you are a dog weighing less then 20 pounds, you've got quite a few chic options.
my faves:
Via Borgospesso, 14, Milano
located in the most luxe shopping area in all of milan, maison sibulet is across the street from bottega veneta home (a good indicator of the luxe factor). shop for exotic skin collars and leashes, bespoke bedding and stylish, bright sweaters and coats.
Via S. Pietro All'Orto, 3, Milano
steps from the duomo and around the corner from some great human shopping (check out excelsior) is for pets only. complete with cushioned dressing tables to ensure your paws don't have to touch the floor while trying on the latest styles, this shop is definitely on trend, if not a little bit girly. i purchased a neon pink hooded tracksuit and have major regret i didn't buy from the selection of valentino rockstud inspired harnesses and leashes.
Via Meravigli, 16, 20123 Milano, Italy
as the name indicates, this store will have you covered if you are seeking a regal vibe. there's no shortage of pink, sparkle, ribbons, lace and bows. as you know, i'm a minimalist so i skipped the lace and found a knit snood to keep my ears warm. i also purchased a gray hooded knit sweater with bunny ears on the hood. don't worry, there were cushioned dressing tables here too. i would never dress on the ground.
dining in style at bice.
eat
Via Privata Cuccagna, 2, Milano
also a guest house where you can stay overnight, un posto a milano serves locally and ethically sourced farm-to-table food. they grow some of their veggies on site in their gardens. everything was fresh and the food and wines were excellent. the menu shows you the source of all of their ingredients so you know exactly what you are eating and where it came from. the prosciutto (aged 24 months) was exceptional!
most important, there is a ton of outdoor and dog friendly seating. make reservations, it's a popular place.
Via Borgospesso, 12, 20121 Milano
so, we're not sure if this spot is actually dog friendly, or just bean friendly, but they welcomed me with a seat to myself and served me my own specially cooked boiled chicken dish. we happened to dine during fashion week, so the restaurant was packed with editors and fashion week-ers. natch, i was dressed for the occasion and enjoyed the attention of all the diners. the humans recommend the famous house made pasta dish and the tiramisu for dessert.
strolling the streets of milan.
one more cappucino!