Milan Hotel &

I don't have children, but here are some ideas off the top of my head. The gargoyles on top of the Duomo are fascinating for all ages. And in modern Milan, you don't have to climb to the top unless you want to - there's an elevator. There is a science museum with wooden models of Leonardo da Vinci's machines, if your kids like that sort of thing. The Galleria might be of interest, since it's a "shopping mall" that's over 100 years old (therefore, very different from the ones they've seen at home). Milan is a large city, so your kids may enjoy the stimulation if you've been only in smaller places. And if they miss non-Italian foods, it's by far your best opportunity in Italy for these.

Whenever we are in Milano we always stay at the Hotel Berna on Via Napo Torriano located 400 meters from Stazione Centrale. It is a 4 star property, highly rated on tripadviser.com, and serves the best/biggest breakfast in the city. The staff is extremely friendly and helpful. When you are in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele look for ceramic "Il Torino" (little bull) in the floor, place the heel of your shoe on its testicle and spin. This is an old Milanese custom for good luck. It's easy to find because there is always a crowd around it spinning. When you enter from the Piazza del Duomo walk to the intersection and turn left and there it is. You will easily notice the worn tile on the bull. The piece of ceramic tile is replaced every few years due to wear. The Leonardo Museum is also another neat site. They even have an Italian Navy submarine to tour. After dinner you can take your passeggiatta (evening stroll) in the Navigli District. It is a canal section, which was once a factory section. Now it has been gentrified into restaurants, cafes, bars, gelatories, bakeries, a flea market, and assorted other venues. Buon viaggio,

Great suggestions...esp Gargoyles and De Vinci's models and the spinning tradition. Love that!