The pulsating industrial heart of Italy, Milan has never been one to brag about its artistic heritage. Yet visitors who come to shop at designer boutiques or to clinch a business deal at one of the many trade fairs and exhibitions find that Milan has much more to offer: from the breathtaking beauty of the spires of the Duomo, to some of the most important art collections in Italy. Not to mention a wealth of A-list restaurants and bars, a throbbing nightlife and a multiculturalism unseen in most of Italy. And when you've had enough of sightseeing, shopping and living in the fast lane, within a relatively short distance from this hive of activity is one of the world's most scenic lake regions - the ideal destination for a little R&R.