Milan: 7 things to know before you go

But go beyond the banks and boutiques and Milan offers a world of subterranean secrets, surreal meals andwhen its party scene gets too muchsilence.

Above all, Milan offers an experience of Italy that sometimes feels very un-Italian.

Here are a few things to know before you go.

1. All roads lead away from Rome

Rome might be Italy’s eternal city, but it has an intense rivalry with Milan.

While Rome is the seat of political power, Milan has the banks, the stock exchange and, of course, Italy’s power houses of style.

Romans have been known to say the best thing about Milan is the train back to Rome.

But that doesn’t stop them having the time of their lives partying here.

7. Navigli rules the night

Navigli is the city’s most stylish district, the pulsing heart of Milan’s party scene, where the young, hip and effortlessly cool hang out at bars and restaurants lining a network of canals.

Among the best places to eat is Eppol (Via di Porta Ticinese 65; +39 2 36 79 82 90), home of the odd-sounding ham and whiskey club sandwich.

Once you’re partied out, you can hit the dreamy quiet of Milan’s Quadrilatero del Silenzio.

Art historians at Milano Guida offer tours of this “silent” neighborhood’s mosaics, weird statues, secret gardens swarming with flamingos, and quirky architecture that includes a huge, ear-shaped door bell.

MORE: The fashion model’s guide to Milan

Silvia Marchetti is a freelance journalist and writer based in Italy.

CNN