Home to more than 50 Michelin-starred restaurants, Lombardy is the heart of Italian fine dining. And this food is best enjoyed in the winter months, especially the region’s beloved Risotto alla Milanese, with foodies flocking to Milan’s Ratanà to try its take on this classic dish.

For those seeking something more experimental, head to the MUDEC building in Tortona’s design district where Enrico Bartolini Mudec serves a contemporary three-Michelin-star menu of world flavours.

Handily placed in Milan’s cultural scene is the Senato Hotel – just a 10-minute walk from the Duomo piazza, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Pinacoteca di Brera and other must-see sites.

Lesser known, but equally spectacular sights, such as Piero Portaluppi’s Villa Necchi Capiglio and the Church of San Bernardino alle Ossa are also all within walking distance. The perfect base for a weekend of exploring.

Milan is a melting pot of cultural history, wrapped up in prestigious galleries, cathedrals and medieval architecture.

Milan’s Cathedral and its breath-taking gothic statues should be first on your list to see, followed by the Basilica of Santa Maria dell Grazie, home to Da Vinci’s The Last Supper.

Finally, add a touch of contemporary to your visit at Armani/Silos, for a lesson on one of Milan’s most celebrated fashion designers.

Since 1824, family-run Pasticceria Marchesi has been an emblem of Milano’s coffee culture. Belonging to the Prada family, its décor is just as sweet as its revered cremini bites. Think pistachio-hued walls and matching velvet armchairs for a picture-perfect break from the cold.

For something more central, art-nouveau bar, Camparino, can be found at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Serving steaming cups of coffee from 8am, arrive early to secure a window seat and enjoy some spectacular views of Duomo piazza.

Just outside of Milan's historic centre stands Castello Sforzesco. This fifteenth century fortification is one of the largest in Europe and home to endless exhibitions, archives and libraries, including the Rondanini Pietà - the last and unfinished sculpture from Michelangelo.

Finish your day at Teatro alla Scala, one of the world’s leading opera and ballet theatres. The winter schedule boasts a selection of old theatrical favourites, including the Nutcracker, this season.

Fidenza Village has all the winter warmers and apres-ski essentials for a stylish getaway. Revel in a relaxed atmosphere while you browse more than 120 boutiques for the latest fashion. Might we also suggest a stop at one of the Village’s many cafés and restaurants to keep you fuelled for a day browsing?