---

Milan – the global capital of fashion and design – is one of Italy’s most glamorous and trendsetting cities. Home to iconic brands like Valentino, Versace, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana and Armani, Milan isn’t just stylish, it defines style. Designers have transformed it into a true fashion mecca, a city where creativity and couture walk hand in hand.

Though Milan is quite large, I found that 2–3 days were more than enough to explore city’s main highlights. Here’s what stood out to me most:

🛍️ Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – this place is breathtaking. It’s not just a shopping arcade, it’s a masterpiece. Luxury brands under soaring glass ceilings and intricate mosaics, shopping has never looked so elegant.

✨ Duomo di Milano – a gothic marvel. The delicate spires, the grand scale of it and the rooftop views, made it one of the most memorable sights of my trip.

🌿 Parco Sempione – after the hustle of the city, this peaceful green space was the perfect place to unwind. Locals walking dogs, couples picnicking. it’s relaxed, charming and right next to Sforzesco Castle.

For the Art Lovers.

Seeing Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” in person was surreal. It’s housed in the original dining hall of the Santa Maria delle Grazie convent, the exact place where it was painted over 500 years ago. No photo does it justice.

Milanese Flavors.

Milan is also known for its refined, high-end cuisine. After visiting Italy many times, I can confidently say: Italians know how to cook! From gourmet pastas to espresso so perfect, it feels like a small ritual, every meal I had there was five stars. Dining in Milan is more than eating, it’s an experience.

And a Little Side Trip to… Como.

Just under an hour’s drive from Milan, I visited Como, near the Swiss border and it completely stole my heart. Nestled on the edge of Lake Como and backed by the Alps – this place feels like a dream. Elegant, peaceful and incredibly picturesque.

Here are the highlights from my time in Como:

🚤 Boat ride across Lake Como – the views from the water are unbelievable. You get panoramic glimpses of the mountains, historic villas and charming towns dotting the shoreline.

🚶‍♀️ Wandering the Old Town – cobblestone streets, local markets, beautiful churches… it was the perfect blend of history and charm.

🍨 Gelato & Local Cuisine – naturally, I ate way too much gelato (no regrets). But the regional food here is also amazing – fresh, flavorful and comforting in the best way.

If you’d like to read more about my Italian adventures, check out my posts about Sicily and my journey from Rome to Venice. Italy never runs out of wonders 🇮🇹

---