(CNN)You could be forgiven for thinking that Italy's second city is all about fashion and finance. But go beyond the banks and boutiques and Milan offers a world of subterranean secrets, surreal meals and -- when its party scene gets too much -- silence. Above all, Milan offers an experience of Italy that sometimes feels very un-Italian. Here are a few things to know before you go. 1. All roads lead away from Rome Rome might be Italy's eternal city, but it has an intense rivalry with Milan. While Rome is the seat of political power, Milan has the banks, the stock exchange and, of course, Italy's power houses of style.
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Restaurants off the beaten track might be unwilling to serve you dinner after 8.30 p.m.
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Milanese tend to drink their coffee long, with added water, rather than espressos favored elsewhere in Italy
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Milan's chefs aren't afraid of tinkering with the tried and trusted Italian dining experience
Romans have been known to say the best thing about Milan is the train back to @placeholder.