1. Just like as in most Italian cities, most of Milan's cathedrals and churches are free to visit. Many of them are also some of the city's most beautiful buildings. Notable ones include Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio with its gold altar, Chiesa di San Maurizio where you'll find some of the city's most remarkable paintings, and Chiesa di San Marco which dates back to 1254.

2. Not far from the city centre at Piazzale del Cimitero Monumentale is Cimitero Monumentale, a graveyard with some of the most outlandish tombstones you are likely to ever see. One is a 3D version of Da Vinci's 'The Last Supper'. This is the resting place for many famous Italians. Open Tues-Sun from 8.30am-5.30pm.

3. No matter what city in the world you are in, there is nothing more pleasurable than relaxing in one of its parks when the crowds of downtown begin to irritate. Milan's two main open spaces are Giardini Pubblici and Parco Sempione. The former is the city's largest park and always busy in the summer while the latter is behind Castello Sforzesco.

4. Housed in a building where Napoleon once lived, Milan's modern art gallery is one of the city's most intriguing galleries and, since it's free to get in, is well worth visiting. Located at the foot of Giardini Pubblici, it is home to some of Italy's best modern art. Open Tues-Sun 9.30am-5.30pm; admission free.

5. Your bank balance may not permit you to shop around Quadrilatero D'Oro, but it’s one of the best places to people-watch in the city. Saturday afternoons are best when the really beautiful people come out.