For Simone Barlaam, home is where the heart is - or rather, it's where the pool is. The 23-time world champion swimmer, Olympic gold medallist and ambassador for the Milano Cortina Winter Olympic Games, may have won three golds and a silver medal in Paris, but his true love is Milan.
First things first, food. If you're training like Simone, you need fuel that'll keep you going all day long. He's a fan of Pasticceria Grossi in Piazzale Udine, where the coffee is top-notch, and Panificio Storico Vailati on Via Vitruvio for its delicious pastries. But his go-to spot? Pizzeria da Mimmo near Chinatown, where he can indulge in a slice (or three) of that famous thick, soft and fluffy pizza.
While eating out, Simone's always on the lookout for great value food - and that's why Grano e Caffè in Viale Romagna is his top spot. Not only does it serve delicious grub at reasonable prices, but it's also a great place to study (he was a student at the Politecnico di Milano).
Now, for fashion, Milan is the city of Armani - and Simone can't get enough of its style. As someone who's worked with Giorgio Armani on designing his racing suits, he has nothing but admiration for the legendary designer's legacy. But it's not just about high-end fashion; he loves browsing through Chinatown's streets at night, taking in all the sights and sounds - and maybe even popping into a karaoke bar or two.
Of course, there are plenty of other things to keep Simone busy in Milan. His love of swimming is clear - whether it's training, competing or just relaxing in the pool, water is his happy place. And speaking of water, he's a big fan of the Acquario Civico di Milano, one of Europe's oldest aquariums.
But for all its glamour and glitz, Milan has its quiet spots too. Simone loves exploring Parco Sempione, which offers stunning views and a sense of serenity - not to mention being close to some of the city's best museums and cultural attractions. And while it may not be the most obvious destination, he's a fan of the Museum of Natural History in Parco Sempione too.
As someone who's lived all over Italy (he grew up in Milan, but also spent time in other cities), Simone knows that accessibility is key - especially when you're on the move. And speaking of being on the move, his advice to anyone visiting Milan? Get out there and explore! There are so many hidden gems waiting to be discovered - from street food stalls to underground art galleries.
In short, for Simone Barlaam, Milan is more than just a city - it's home.
First things first, food. If you're training like Simone, you need fuel that'll keep you going all day long. He's a fan of Pasticceria Grossi in Piazzale Udine, where the coffee is top-notch, and Panificio Storico Vailati on Via Vitruvio for its delicious pastries. But his go-to spot? Pizzeria da Mimmo near Chinatown, where he can indulge in a slice (or three) of that famous thick, soft and fluffy pizza.
While eating out, Simone's always on the lookout for great value food - and that's why Grano e Caffè in Viale Romagna is his top spot. Not only does it serve delicious grub at reasonable prices, but it's also a great place to study (he was a student at the Politecnico di Milano).
Now, for fashion, Milan is the city of Armani - and Simone can't get enough of its style. As someone who's worked with Giorgio Armani on designing his racing suits, he has nothing but admiration for the legendary designer's legacy. But it's not just about high-end fashion; he loves browsing through Chinatown's streets at night, taking in all the sights and sounds - and maybe even popping into a karaoke bar or two.
Of course, there are plenty of other things to keep Simone busy in Milan. His love of swimming is clear - whether it's training, competing or just relaxing in the pool, water is his happy place. And speaking of water, he's a big fan of the Acquario Civico di Milano, one of Europe's oldest aquariums.
But for all its glamour and glitz, Milan has its quiet spots too. Simone loves exploring Parco Sempione, which offers stunning views and a sense of serenity - not to mention being close to some of the city's best museums and cultural attractions. And while it may not be the most obvious destination, he's a fan of the Museum of Natural History in Parco Sempione too.
As someone who's lived all over Italy (he grew up in Milan, but also spent time in other cities), Simone knows that accessibility is key - especially when you're on the move. And speaking of being on the move, his advice to anyone visiting Milan? Get out there and explore! There are so many hidden gems waiting to be discovered - from street food stalls to underground art galleries.
In short, for Simone Barlaam, Milan is more than just a city - it's home.
. I mean, who wouldn't want to train at Pasticceria Grossi and eat all that delicious food? And shopping in Armani's flagship store? 
But what really gets me is how he balances his love of swimming with exploring all the city has to offer. The Acquario Civico di Milano is actually one of my faves too, I could spend hours there 
. I'm not surprised he loves Parco Sempione, it's so peaceful and pretty. And yeah, accessibility is everything, especially for someone on-the-go like him 
. My only thing would be that with all the glamour comes some crazy touristy areas... just saying 
I think what's really cool about Simone's love for Milan is how he balances his high-profile life with the city's everyday charm. You can't help but feel like you're getting a glimpse into the real person behind the athlete. And let's be real, who wouldn't want to spend their days fuelled by Pizzeria da Mimmo and sipping coffee at Pasticceria Grossi? 
The way he highlights the city's hidden gems is also super refreshing – it just goes to show that even in a bustling metropolis like Milan, there's always room for discovery.
. For Simone, it sounds like he loves having his cake and eating it too - indulging in high-end fashion and amazing food, but also appreciating the quieter side of Milan 
. I mean, who doesn't love a good slice (or three) of pizza or a coffee at Pasticceria Grossi? 
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. There's so much to see and do beyond just the famous landmarks - and I think that's what makes travel so exciting 
. For me, it's all about finding that balance between comfort and adventure 
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I'm loving this article about Simone Barlaam's fave spots in Milan... the guy's passion for swimming is infectious 
and I can see why he'd want to spend time at the Acquario Civico di Milano, it looks stunning! 
But what really gets me is how much food plays into his life - who wouldn't want a slice (or three) of that famous Pizzeria da Mimmo pizza? 
... anyway, can't wait to check out Grano e Caffè for some delicious grub on the go! 
. Like Simone Barlaam, he loves Milan because it's where his heart is, not just 'cause it's got a sweet pool 
. I mean, what's the point of being a world champion if you're just gonna live in some boring mansion all day? Get out there and explore the city, discover those hidden gems... that's where the real joy is 
You'd think he's got some insider info or something. And what's with all the free passes to top spots just 'cause he's a famous swimmer? Sounds like some PR stunt to me.
I mean come on, 23-time world champion swimmer and Olympic gold medallist is still raving about Pizzeria da Mimmo? That place can't hold a candle to any of the authentic Neapolitan pizzerias in Naples! 
Simone needs to get his priorities straight. And what's up with Grano e Caffè being his top spot for value food? It's like he's trying to be some kind of middle-class poster child for Milan's culinary scene. 
Anyway, I do love that he's a fan of the Acquario Civico di Milano - who isn't, right? 
. Food, fashion & water all got a spot in this city 
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Simone Barlaam, man... that guy's got style for days! I mean, have you ever seen someone rock a poolside vibe like he does? 
His love for Pizzeria da Mimmo is on point, btw. Three slices? Yes please! 
but Milan has some amazing hidden gems u just gotta explore the city properly dont be afraid 2 wander around chinatown at night its lit 
- no distractions, just me and my books! But seriously though, it's cool to see someone who's passionate about their hometown. My favorite place in school is probably the outdoor courtyard during lunchtime 
, we can hang out and people-watch without being stuck inside all day. Maybe one day I'll be a world champion like Simone too... haha, not gonna hold my breath though 
. The guy's got taste in food, fashion, and culture that's on point... but at the same time, he's not afraid to explore the lesser-known spots too. Like, who knew he was a fan of Panificio Storico Vailati for pastries? Sounds like a total hidden gem! 
He's literally my idol when it comes to swimming and I can tell he loves Milan just as much as I do 
And Parco Sempione is such a underrated gem in the city, so peaceful after all the hustle and bustle. Plus, it's great to see someone who loves exploring Milan just as much as I do 
. The city has everything: food that'll fuel your body and soul (pizza, anyone?), fashion that's straight fire (Armani, I'm loving it), and water that's just the best 
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. You never know what hidden gems you might stumble upon... and who knows, maybe you'll even find your own version of home 
! The guy knows how to live life to the fullest, from fueling up on delicious food at Pizzeria da Mimmo (three slices? yes please!) 
️ to finding serenity in Parco Sempione. I'm all about trying out new things and discovering hidden gems, just like Simone 
