We have a little over a month left in Europe before it’s back to Los Angeles – mixed emotions about that. In my wildest dreams I couldn’t have imagined that Zack and I would live abroad. But I am looking forward to getting settled back in at home, seeing all my friends and family, and spending an entire day at Target (joking but kinda not. . .).
But until then, I’m still trying to soak in every last bit of the experience as possible. My most recent trip? A quick visit to Milan, Italy!
Milan was one of the places I hadn’t visited in Italy, and as a huge fashion capital, it was on my list. But the best part was Zack and I managed to surprise his mom with the trip! She was visiting us in Budapest, but going to Italy was her dream, so we decided to make that happen!
If you’re visiting as a tourist, you really don’t need more than a day to see all the big sights. Check out my one day itinerary below:
ONE DAY ITINERARY
Start your morning off at the Duomo, the largest church in Italy and one of the largest churches in the world. I recommend buying tickets online to cut down on your wait time. Climb to the rooftop terraces for stunning views then head back down to explore the interior of the incredible cathedral.
Time for a mid-morning snack. Head to Luini’s and grab a panzoretti (located minutes from the Duomo). Then stroll through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the oldest and most beautiful shopping malls.
Head to Obica Mozzarella Bar for lunch, which is located on the rooftop of the La Rinascente department store and has a prime view of the Duomo!
Spend the afternoon exploring the city. Walk down Via Montenapoleone, one of Milan’s most luxurious shopping streets, stroll through Brera, the arts district, and wander the grounds of the Sforzesco Castle.
Then hop on the metro and check out the canals in Navigli. AND it’s the perfect time for an afternoon snack: GELATO!
Find a nice place to enjoy dinner then head to the Dolce & Gabbana Bar Martini for some fancy + fashionable cocktails to finish off your day.
TIPS
• Buy a day pass for the metro. It’s well connected and is an easy way to get around the city if your feet need a break from walking.
• Buy your Duomo tickets in advance to cut down on the amount of lines you have to wait in. If you want to skip the lines all together, fast track options are available.
• One of the other main attractions in Milan is the Last Supper, but it sells out MONTHS in advance, so if you want to see that, you’ll need to buy your tickets ahead of time.
Italy will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s where I studied abroad in college (which was also my first trip to Europe) and where Zack and I spent part of our honeymoon. And even though we’ve been living in Europe for months, I wasn’t sure if I’d make it there this year, but I’m so glad I did – and was able to share it with my mother-in-law (Zack, unfortunately, had to work.)
Even though our visit was quick, we had a great time and left feeling like we really experienced what Milan had to offer. And of course our bellies were full of all the delicious wine, pizza, pasta, and gelato. Until next time, Ciao!
– Courtney
hardys on holiday 