12 Cafes to Visit in Milan, Milan, Italy

The industrial capital of Italy and one of the world's fashion and business centers, today's Milan is teeming with chaotic urban rush on a daily basis. Although it can't compete with Rome in terms of history, art and architecture, there are hidden gems in Milan well worth searching out - the places where the locals like to retreat from the hectic Milanese life for a while. Here are the top dozen of them!

Ostello Bello is adored by the young crowd of Milan. It is, in fact, a hostel in the center of the city, but is frequented by the locals for its cafe/bar lounge area. If you find yourself staying in a different hotel or hostel in Milan, do not worry, because Ostello Bello is just a short walk from the Duomo. The main seating area, just through the front doors, is a collage of wooden tables, bookshelves and the great exchange of cultures you hope to find at a fun, young hostel. There is also a large hang-out in the basement where they host concerts, art shows, and even a Christmas market in early December. Many students find it a perfect place to study in the early afternoon and a fun bar for aperitivo or after dinner drinks. It is an ideal place for anyone looking to meet travelers and locals alike while staying in Milan! ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).