ahoyne9Heading to Milan this morning, August 10th, 2021, I embarked on my journey from Como to Milan. The train ride was incredibly convenient and quick, covering the 50-kilometer (31-mile) distance in just 35 to 45 minutes. Regional train tickets cost between €5 and €7, while intercity options range from €7 to €12. With trains departing every 30 minutes from either Como San Giovanni or Como Nord Lago and arriving at Milan’s main stations, Milano Centrale or Milano Porta Garibaldi, the journey was a seamless transition from the picturesque beauty of Lake Como to the bustling streets of Milan.
I’m only spending one night in Milan before heading off to Florence in the morning, as I decided to postpone my trip to San Marino. That will have to wait for another day. There were a few key attractions on my Milan checklist: the Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral), Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” (Cenacolo Vinciano). Unfortunately, due to strict COVID regulations, I needed to book in advance for “The Last Supper,” which I hadn’t done. However, I was able to visit the Duomo di Milano right away.
A quick negative COVID test was required to enter the cathedral, but it was relatively easy and affordable, thanks to a pharmacy conveniently located across the street. The Duomo di Milano, or Milan Cathedral, is an awe-inspiring piece of Gothic architecture and one of Italy’s most iconic landmarks. Construction began in 1386 and took almost six centuries to complete, resulting in the largest church in Italy and the third largest in the world. Its exterior is adorned with over 3,400 statues, 135 spires, and the renowned golden Madonnina statue atop its central spire. Inside, the vast nave can accommodate up to 40,000 people, and the cathedral boasts some of the largest stained glass windows in the world.
Exploring the Duomo’s intricate details and taking a trip to the rooftop is an unforgettable experience. From there, you get panoramic views of Milan, including the surprising modern skyline dotted with skyscrapers—a part of the city I didn’t even know existed until I saw it from above. Entry to the Duomo ranges from €3 to €10, and rooftop access costs €10 via stairs or €15 for the elevator, I did the stairs. Located in the bustling Piazza del Duomo, the cathedral is a must-see, offering a unique glimpse into Milan’s rich history, art, and culture. It’s also conveniently near other attractions like the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and Teatro alla Scala.
After the Duomo, I wandered over to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, located nearby. The arcade is stunning, and I couldn’t resist taking a quick photo while observing the hordes of influencers, dressed to the nines, attempting to capture the perfect shot amidst the crowd. I also stumbled upon the Ferrari store, which turned out to be a fascinating and free experience.
Tomorrow, I’m off to Florence, where I’ll meet up with Oron. We’ve never met or spoken before, but we have a mutual friend, and since we both happen to be traveling through Italy simultaneously, we decided to split an Airbnb in Florence and Rome. I’m excited to see what adventures await!
Cheers!