Editor Maria, here. The 2026 Winter Olympics have got me itching for a slice of Milan without the price of airfare. With the help of some local businesses, you can make the Queen City feel like "la capitale morale" for just one day, no Duolingo needed.

Morning

Wake up and smell the caffe and cornetto (croissants). You’re going to want to start your day by fueling yourself — the Italian way. Grab a coffee, biscotti, or a lobster tail from Dolce & Amaro or Villani's Bakery.

Afternoon

Spend the mid-morning hours perusing Italian masterpieces on display at the Mint Museum in Uptown. Psst... a special exhibition on Caravaggio opens on April 26.

The pastas will be available in small and large sizes for $9 and $15. | Photos by CLTtoday

Next, make your way over to ESO Artisanal Pasta at Optimist Hall for a sizeable helping of handmade pasta or a soup and sandwich combo from Osteria LuCa.

What is a day in Milan without a little shopping? Splurge on the latest fall fashions by high-end Italian brands, like Gucci at SouthPark Mall.

Evening

Wine down after a long day of exploration at Ever Andalo or Fontana di Vino, or consider a personal pizza from Stagioni.

Don't forget la dolce finale. Cap off the evening with a nightcap and tiramisu from Toscana or gelato from Tutti Gelato & Cafe.

Hit the road

Itching for a real getaway? Ronda, NC — where you can see a European-style vineyard — is only about a 1-hr drive from the Queen City.

Have you ever been to the real Milan, Italy? Walk us through your version of an Italy-filled day in Charlotte.