One of my favorite recovery places near Milano is Bergamo. It's a delightful city, big enough to be entertaining, and with incredible charm. It's one of those citta' alta and citta' bassa places - with the upper city being the old part and the lower city having the more modern flavor. It's only about 60 miles from Milano (I think...) and good for a day or two of sightseeing.

Callie in New Orleans