My Post Pandemic Trip to Milan

This pandemic put an unrecognizable fear in me. I wanted to get back to international travel, but I kept hearing people getting stuck due to testing positive for covid, a new variant, and/or additional restrictions. I had to finally put those fear to rest. COVID is here and I need to understand that we have a “new normal”. With that being said, I booked my first international trip – Milan!

I found a sweat deal with Gate 1 that allowed me to fly on Emirates from JFK to Milan. Emirates was on the travel to-do list, and I just could not resist. A two for one – post-pandemic trip and Emirates! Now that destination has been selected and it was time to start planning.

Milan

The Fashion Capital of the World is inherently a name that many people know when it comes to the Italian city of Milan. Besides being considered a shopping paradise, Milan is also very famous for its greatest, most magnificent architecture in the world. In addition to skyscrapers and high-end fashion boutiques, Milan also owns plenty of valuable art and historical attractions. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect “post-pandemic” trip for the first time?

Accommodation

The deal I found had a hotel, but I needed to upgrade it to something that I am familiar with – the Marriot Brand – and its proximity to the city center. The AC Marriott Milano was a phenomenal choice as it is less than two miles from the city center and within walking distance to nightlife and restaurants.

Things to Do

I had an itinerary filled with things to do during my 4-day visit. However, it did not go as planned. By the time we landed and made it through Customs, half the day was over. The plan was to take the train into the city, however, we were exhausted and opted for Uber. Note: The airport is about 45-minutes outside the city of Milan and the cost is about $100.00.

Day 1 – Milan

After showering and resting for about an hour, we went exploring. Milan is an extremely walkable city, and you get to see and enjoy the beauty by simply walking rather than being stuck in a car.

Once we made it to the City Center, you will encounter the crown jewel of Milan – the Duomo Di Milan. It holds the title of the second-largest in the world Catholic church and is one of the most impressive Renaissance buildings in Italy.

However, what steals the show when it comes to this beautiful building is the Duomo di Milano rooftop terrace. Even though the entry into the Duomo Di Milan is free (make sure to be mindful of those who are praying); however, the rooftop is not. The rooftop requires a ticket which can be purchased at their website.

Since we arrived late in the afternoon and just before closing, it was fast access and less crowded. With this beautiful view, we could have stayed all day.

Day 2 – Cinque Terre

From five sleepy Italian fishing villages to one of the most famous coastal landscapes in the world – the Cinque Terre has been through a few changes over the years, but it still looks every bit as gorgeous as you’d imagine.

It’s now a National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with up to 2.4 million people a year visiting the Cinque Terre to walk, boat and train their way through its dramatic cliffs and pretty coastal villages.

Cinque Terre is about 3.5 hours from Milan either by car or train. The day was long, however, it was worth it.

Our first stop was Manarola which is the second-smallest of the five towns of the Cinque Terre.

Then a train ride to Monterosso which is the largest of the five coastal villages of Cinque Terre.

Finally a boat ride to La Spezia to pick up our bus ride back to Milan.

Day 3 – Milan

On our third day, we were exhausted and so we slept in, went shopping, and drank lots of wine lol. One of the best things to do 😊

Day 4 – Como

Como/Lake Como was a last-minute decision. After doing some research, I found that it was a 20-minute train ride from Milan for about 10 euros roundtrip. Why not? I am always ready for an adventure and I love it when I can share it with friends.

After some wine 🙃, we ended up causing Lake Como.

Conclusion

Overall, this was a well needed trip to get over that pandemic fear and it was even better to have friends join me. I was able to let go, relax, and enjoy.

I hope you enjoyed my adventure. 😍

Make sure to check out my other blogs. Contact me when you are ready to travel domestically or internationally. I am here to curate a trip for you, your friends, and your family.

Follow me on IG @internationalcaty

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