Travel around Milan with Bobby
Day 1Arriving in Style – Duomo di Milano and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Upon arriving at Milan Malpensa Airport, I was immediately struck by the city’s vibrant energy and modern charm. After settling into my boutique hotel near Piazza del Duomo, I made my way to the iconic Duomo di Milano, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. Climbing to the rooftop, I marveled at the intricate spires while taking in panoramic views of Milan’s skyline and the distant Alps, a breathtaking way to start my journey.
From there, I walked to the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a 19th-century arcade famous for its stunning glass dome and luxury boutiques. While admiring the architecture, I stopped for a perfectly brewed espresso at a traditional Italian café, enjoying the lively ambiance of Milanese culture. As evening approached, I savored my first authentic taste of risotto alla Milanese at a cozy trattoria nearby. The rich, creamy dish with saffron was the perfect introduction to Milan’s renowned cuisine.
Later that night, I wandered through the illuminated streets, soaking in the dynamic nightlife and artistic energy that permeated the city. From bustling piazzas to charming side streets, Milan’s pulse remained lively and inviting, leaving me excited for the adventures that lay ahead. The seamless blend of history, modernity, and culinary excellence made it clear that Milan offers an experience like no other.
Climb to the Duomo’s rooftop for the best views in the city. And don’t miss exploring the Galleria; it’s not just about shopping but also experiencing Milanese elegance.
- Bobby
Day 2Art and History – The Last Supper and Sforza Castle
On my second day, I immersed myself in Milan’s artistic and historical treasures. Visiting Santa Maria delle Grazie to admire Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, The Last Supper, was an awe-inspiring experience that brought Renaissance history vividly to life. Standing before the mural, I could feel the weight of centuries of artistic achievement and the delicate restoration work that has preserved it for future generations. From there, I ventured to the Sforza Castle, an imposing fortress brimming with history. I spent hours exploring its museums and courtyards, marveling at works by Michelangelo, da Vinci, and other renowned artists that make the castle a cultural gem.
For lunch, I indulged in Osso Buco at a local osteria, savoring the dish’s rich flavors complemented by creamy polenta—an unforgettable taste of Milanese tradition. In the afternoon, I strolled through the Brera district, where narrow streets lined with art galleries, boutiques, and charming cafés exuded a bohemian vibe. The district’s lively spirit, teeming with artists and performers, was infectious. As night fell, I found the perfect end to my day at a cozy wine bar, enjoying a glass of Barolo while soaking up Brera’s artistic ambiance. The district’s blend of creativity, history, and nightlife left me enchanted, making it clear why Milan remains a city of inspiration for so many.
Book your ticket to see “The Last Supper” in advance, as spots fill up quickly. Spend some time in the Brera district for a taste of Milan’s artistic and nightlife scenes.
- Bobby
Lunch at a local osteria introduced me to Osso Buco, a traditional dish slow-cooked to perfection with a side of creamy polenta. The tender meat and rich sauce were a true testament to Milanese cuisine. Dining at a cozy wine bar in Brera with a glass of Barolo was the perfect way to end the day.
Food
My hotel continued to offer great service and easy access to major attractions. The breakfast buffet was well-prepared, featuring fresh Italian pastries and coffee. While the room was comfortable, the street noise at night could be slightly disruptive.
Accomodation
Visiting Santa Maria delle Grazie and seeing Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Exploring Sforza Castle's museums allowed me to discover masterpieces by Michelangelo and da Vinci. The artistic vibe of the Brera district made for a perfect afternoon stroll.
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Day 3 Modern Milan – Porta Nuova and Navigli
On my third day, I explored Milan’s modern charm, beginning in the sleek Porta Nuova district, where futuristic skyscrapers stand tall among the city’s historic streets. A highlight was visiting the Bosco Verticale, an innovative pair of residential towers covered with lush greenery, embodying sustainable architecture. The blend of contemporary design and greenery felt like a refreshing contrast to the city’s ancient monuments.
A quick tram ride took me to the Navigli district, known for its picturesque canals, vibrant murals, and artistic vibe. I enjoyed a leisurely lunch by the water, savoring fresh seafood pasta paired with an Aperol Spritz, perfect for soaking up the district’s lively ambiance. The afternoon was spent on a scenic boat tour of the canals, where I learned about their role in Milan’s history and their importance to trade during the Renaissance.
In the evening, I headed to a trendy restaurant in Porta Garibaldi, where I enjoyed a Milanese-style schnitzel, crisp and flavorful. My day ended on a high note at a rooftop bar, where I relaxed with a cocktail, taking in the stunning view of Milan’s illuminated skyline. Watching the city sparkle under the night sky was the perfect conclusion to my journey through Milan’s modern and historic sides.
Don’t miss a visit to the Navigli district. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon and offers a unique glimpse into Milan’s history.
- Bobby
Lunch in the Navigli district featured fresh seafood pasta paired with an Aperol Spritz, perfectly fitting the canal-side ambiance. Dinner at a trendy restaurant in Porta Garibaldi introduced me to Milanese-style schnitzel, crisp and full of flavor. Both meals reflected Milan’s modern culinary scene with traditional roots.
Food
The boutique hotel’s central location made it easy to explore the city’s modern and historic areas. Staff recommendations for nightlife and restaurants were spot-on. The amenities were excellent, though a bit more storage space in the room would have improved the stay.
Accomodation
Exploring Porta Nuova and visiting the Bosco Verticale showcased Milan’s dedication to sustainability and modern design. A boat tour of the Navigli canals provided a fascinating glimpse into Milan’s history. Ending the night at a rooftop bar with stunning skyline views was the perfect way to wrap up the day.
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Day 4Cultural Immersion – La Scala and the Last Hurrah
My final day in Milan was dedicated to embracing the city’s rich cultural offerings. I began with a visit to the legendary La Scala opera house, where a guided tour revealed its fascinating history and role in shaping the world of opera. Standing in the grand auditorium and learning about past performances by iconic artists was a captivating way to connect with Milan’s artistic heritage.
Next, I ventured to the luxurious Quadrilatero d’Oro, a high-fashion district where I indulged in some window-shopping among prestigious brands like Prada, Gucci, and Armani. Lunch was an unforgettable experience at a Michelin-starred restaurant, where every dish was a perfectly crafted culinary masterpiece. In the afternoon, I found tranquility at the Pinacoteca di Brera, an art gallery filled with masterpieces from the Italian Renaissance, offering a serene escape from the bustling streets.
To end my journey on a high note, I spent the evening at a popular jazz club, soaking in live music and enjoying the city’s vibrant nightlife. The lively tunes and warm atmosphere captured the essence of Milan’s cultural pulse, leaving me with cherished memories of my time in this dynamic city.
Take a guided tour of La Scala to fully appreciate its history. And if you’re in Milan, splurge on at least one fine dining experience to truly savor the city’s culinary excellence.
- Bobby
Lunch at a Michelin-starred restaurant delivered a culinary experience that felt like an art form, with each dish carefully crafted and beautifully presented. Every bite was a blend of tradition and innovation, offering a fitting finale to my food journey in Milan.
Food
The hotel remained a comfortable and convenient base for my final day in Milan. The staff provided seamless check-out service, and I appreciated the luggage storage option before my evening departure. The personal touches, like farewell treats, added to the charm.
Accomodation
A guided tour of La Scala opera house immersed me in Milan’s artistic heritage, while window-shopping in Quadrilatero d'Oro gave me a taste of high fashion. The tranquil Pinacoteca di Brera provided a moment of serenity amidst Renaissance masterpieces. Finishing the night at a lively jazz club was the perfect way to end my journey in Milan, blending culture and nightlife seamlessly.
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Milan is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity. From its iconic landmarks to its vibrant neighborhoods, there’s something for every traveler. My four days in Milan were filled with unforgettable experiences, delicious food, and inspiring art. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a new adventure, Milan should be at the top of your list.
My first meal in Milan was a delightful dinner at a cozy trattoria, featuring risotto alla Milanese. The creamy texture and saffron-rich flavors perfectly introduced me to the city’s culinary heritage. Every bite felt warm and comforting, setting high expectations for the meals to follow. A great start to my Milanese food adventure!
Food
I stayed at a boutique hotel near Piazza del Duomo, offering charm and convenience with its proximity to key attractions. The room was elegantly decorated, and the service was friendly, though the space was a bit compact. Still, the ambiance and location made it an excellent choice for my stay.
Accomodation
Visiting Duomo di Milano and climbing to the rooftop offered breathtaking panoramic views of Milan and the distant Alps. Strolling through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II afterward added an architectural wonder to the experience. These activities seamlessly blended sightseeing with culture and history, making for a memorable first day.
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