Introduction
Our trip to Milan happened very unexpectedly, and we didn’t expect anything special, but it turned out to be absolutely wonderful and unforgettable. Milan stayed in our hearts for a long time and became one of our favorite cities we’ve visited.
Arrival in Milan: A Warm Welcome
We arrived in Milan in the summer, greeted by warm, beautiful weather. The city was alive with energy, and we felt an instant connection. The first thing we did was visit the district with the green towers, a modern architectural marvel that set the tone for our adventure. After picking up our Milan Pass cards, which made transport and museum visits cheaper, we indulged in some delicious pizza and headed to our hotel. Although it wasn’t in the city center, it was a quiet and convenient base for our explorations.
Day 1: Exploring Milan’s Heart
Our first destination was the city center, where we started with the magnificent Duomo. This stunning Gothic cathedral is a must-see. Although we didn't go up to the top, we admired its grandeur from below. Instead, we chose to visit the Galleria d’Italia. This gallery, with branches all over Italy, was a serene and inspiring experience, showcasing fascinating artworks without the usual crowds.
Given that Milan is the fashion capital, we couldn't resist a shopping spree. The city’s boutiques and stores left us with big shopping bags and lighter wallets. We highly recommend saving up and indulging in some retail therapy here.
After a day full of sightseeing and shopping, we returned to the hotel, picked up some pizza on the way, and relaxed on the hotel roof, enjoying the peaceful evening.
Day 2: Cultural and Historical Treasures
The next day started with a small hiccup—we missed breakfast at the hotel. Undeterred, we ventured out to find a local café. We discovered that croissants with pistachio cream are a popular and delicious treat in Milan. This became our go-to breakfast for the rest of our stay.
Fueled by coffee and croissants, we visited the Leonardo da Vinci Museum. Initially, our expectations were modest, but the museum exceeded them. It houses not only works by da Vinci but also many technological exhibits. The highlight was a beautiful terrace with columns, perfect for photos.
Determined to fully experience the Duomo, we decided to climb to the top. Despite our tired legs, the climb was worth it. The views were breathtaking, and we felt connected to the cathedral’s rich history. We celebrated our achievement with a bottle of wine and some berries back at the hotel, savoring the moment.
Day 3: The Magic of Lake Como
We dedicated our last day to visiting Lake Como, a decision that proved to be the best part of the trip. We woke up early to make the most of our time there. The journey was quick, and the lake’s beauty was instantly captivating. The city around the lake resembled Florence in some ways, with charming shops and picturesque views.
We walked to the middle of the lake on a bridge, watching yachts glide by and people swimming. Although we missed the funicular ride, we made a note to return and experience it. Craving a swim ourselves, we found a local resort with a restaurant and sunbeds. It was the perfect spot to relax, enjoy the view, and savor a delicious meal.
Our serene afternoon was interrupted by a sudden downpour, but even this turned into a memorable experience. The resort owners organized an impromptu party, complete with a DJ, cocktails, and pizza. We danced, laughed, and made new friends. As the rain subsided, we sprinted several kilometers to catch the last train back to Milan, hearts racing with excitement and joy.
Conclusion
Our trip to Milan, though unexpected, turned out to be an absolutely amazing adventure. From the architectural wonders and cultural treasures to the spontaneous moments and delightful surprises, every aspect of our journey left a lasting impression. We fell in love with Milan and eagerly look forward to returning to explore even more of this enchanting city.
