Milan

Milan generates 12% of Italy’s GDP, double Florence’s economic output, and its La Scala opera runs 400 shows yearly—triple Venice’s Teatro La Fenice. The Last Supper attracts 2 million visitors, a figure 50% higher than Rome’s Borghese Gallery tickets sold. Average hotel rates here hit €180 per night, making it 20% pricier than the national average, but its fashion week draws 150,000 professionals, outperforming #1 Rome’s Alta Moda events.