Saul Schwartz and his wife Fern decided to reignite their love for Europe by embarking on a trip to Northern Italy, their first visit since the pandemic. Their itinerary included Milan, Florence, Pisa, and Venice, all possible to visit within two weeks if well-organized.
Their journey began in Milan, widely known for its fashion but underrated as a tourist destination. Fern enjoyed shopping at upscale stores, finding offerings superior to U.S. stores. Late April provided ideal weather, with mild temperatures and only a short period of rain.
Their first stop was Milan’s monumental central train station, an architectural masterpiece built in 1931. Decorated with art deco and art nouveau styles, the station features numerous sculptures and stunning interior designs. Adjacent to the station is a plaza with the “Big Apple of Milan” sculpture by Michelangelo Pistoletto.
In the Brera district, they enjoyed a leisurely afternoon at Bar Brera, people-watching and savoring vegan desserts. The Metro conveniently took them to various city sites, starting with a walking tour from Piazza Duomo, guided by the engaging and knowledgeable Marco. The tour covered key spots like the Vittorio Emanuele II Galleria, the University of Milan, and various historic churches.
Their exploration included lunch at the Starbucks Roastery in Piazza Cordusio, featuring unique drinks and a striking interior design. They visited the Cimitero Monumentale, a cemetery known for its artistic tombs and memorials, including a poignant World War II concentration-camp memorial.
Saul and Fern pre-booked tickets to see an opera at the iconic Teatro alla Scala. They were impressed by the theatre’s elegant décor and rich history. To avoid the long lines, they booked a guided tour of the Duomo, Milan’s gothic masterpiece, offering breathtaking views from its rooftop.
For lunch, they opted for the Rinascente department store’s food court with views of the Duomo. They also visited Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” at Santa Maria delle Grazie, appreciating its historical significance despite its ongoing deterioration. Their tour included the Church of San Maurizio, known for its beautiful frescoes and antiquity.
Their Milan adventure concluded with a visit to Sforza Castle. Although they couldn’t tour the fortress due to time constraints, they felt their three-day stay in Milan was well-spent, experiencing the city’s key attractions.
After Milan, they took a train to their next destination, Florence, eager for more adventures in Northern Italy. For Saul and Fern, this trip marked the rediscovery of Europe, starting with the vibrant and historical city of Milan.
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