Expert: Francesco Marchesani - 8/27/2009

Question
We are flying into Milan and driving to a villa outside of Florence.  We arrive very early in the morning and are wondering if you can recommend things to see/do or places to stop from Milan to our villa?  Additionally, can you advise the 'top things' to see/do in Milan, as we may spend the day there before our drive.  

Thank you for your time!
Joan

Answer
Hello,
on your way from Milan to Florence you'll most probably drive on the Autostrada (highway) A1, along which you'll encounter several interesting towns: Parma, Modena, Reggio Emilia, Bologna.
Bologna is the biggest among them, and surely well worth a visit for her ancient university (the first in the world), and interesting medieval centre, not talking about her gastronomical importance.
The other towns are, however, also interesting historically and artistically: I would suggest you to visit Parma or Modena if you want to spend just a couple hours there, or choose Bologna for a longer stay (4-5 hours).
In Milan, try and reserve a ticket for the Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci (www.cenacolovinciano.org) and also visit the cathedral and the area around it (Vittorio Emanuele gallery and the Scala theatre), as well as the Sforzesco castle. All these places are within walking distance or easily reached by subway.

Have a great trip!