Unfamiliar territory even to many Italians, this multilingual border town and seaport proves both distinctive and distinguished.

Rising into the blue, the high-altitude slopes, après ski lodges and hot springs of alta Valtellina offer a life above the clouds.

As night falls in Milan, the locals take to the bars. By luring them in with cocktails of myriad colors and the promise of gratis buffets, the city’s barrooms have created a steadfast social custom. A tour inside these pre-dinner hot spots finds eight not to miss.

With sweeping mountains and spotless beaches, this Italian island makes a perfect summer getaway.