8 unusual things to do in Milan – a secret places guide

Perhaps you've already been to Milan many times and have seen all the must-sees. Or perhaps you just don't care about must-sees and try to stay as far away from the tourist traps as possible, focusing instead on local mysteries and off-the-radar spots. In either case, we've got you covered. Follow our guide to the secret, fascinating places hidden under the surface of Milan - we've even provided a treasure map to help you organize your adventure.

Take a selfie with the middle finger

This ubiquitous symbol of human mockery stands right in front of Milan's stock exchange headquarters in Piazza Affari. The provocative Italian sculptor Maurizio Cattelan created it in 2010 and it was initially supposed to be a temporary installation. However, clearly seeing the humor in the statue, the local government decided to leave it there permanently. Cattelan never commented on the meaning of the sculpture, so you're free to interpret it as you wish.

The Middle Finger in Milan | Photo: Joyce S. Lee

Discover the Navigli antique shops

Milan's version of Venice is a small quarter with a few canals, a few boats and some floating restaurants (but no gondolas, sorry). Bustling with bohemian energy, Navigli is known for its flea markets and creative atmosphere. Unlike the city's famous shopping malls and boutiques, which offer the latest crazes (at the highest prices), here you can find retro fashion treasures to impress even the strictest hipsters. Stepping inside the antique stores along the Ripa di Porta Ticinese is like entering into a past reality, one where you can find 50-year-old Chanel bags among collections of original clothes from a range of iconic brands.

Navigli's Canals, Milan | Photo © Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com