Milan, Italy

This year, I planned a special trip to celebrate our 24th wedding anniversary—a weekend abroad, just the two of us, and our first time away without the kids. I was determined to stick to a budget, so I booked EasyJet flights from Bristol Airport to Malpensa, Milan. Little did we know, our adventure would start with a curveball—a train strike (apparently, not just a UK specialty!). With no other options, we hopped into a taxi to our Airbnb, which set us back €140. Ouch! But soon, we found ourselves outside a charming, quintessential Milano apartment, ready to dive into our weekend escape.

Our Airbnb was about a 30-minute walk from the city center, but Milan’s flat streets and captivating sights made it a pleasure to explore on foot. We stayed from Friday to Monday, and the weather was crisp and bright. Thankfully, I found a gorgeous scarf that kept the chill at bay. With the sunshine warming your face, the cold somehow feels less biting, making it perfect weather for wandering.

When it comes to food, Milan offers a little bit of everything. From classic pizzas to sophisticated seafood dishes, there’s something for every palate. To our surprise, the average meal cost around €15—much more reasonable than we had expected! Pro tip: never order a “large” beer unless you’re prepared to be swimming in it. My husband learned that the hard way on our first night!

One highlight of our trip was visiting the Leonardo da Vinci Museum. We spent the entire day immersed in its interactive exhibits and admiring the famous artwork—it was truly a feast for the senses. With everything within walking distance and no kids to keep on a schedule, we enjoyed a leisurely pace, soaking in the charm of the city without a care in the world.

I hope you enjoy the photos below—all captured on my trusty old iPhone 12 Pro, as we packed light for this trip. Milan gave us so much to see and savor, and this anniversary getaway will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Milano in the Autumn

Milan, the vibrant heart of Italy, is a city where history and modernity blend seamlessly, creating a paradise for architecture lovers and photographers alike. From ancient Gothic spires to sleek, contemporary designs, Milan’s cityscape tells a story of innovation and tradition. Walking through its streets feels like stepping into a living gallery, where every corner offers a new perspective to capture.

The Duomo di Milano, the city’s iconic cathedral, stands as a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Its intricate façade, adorned with thousands of statues, draws photographers from around the world, eager to immortalize its soaring spires against the changing sky. Climbing to the rooftop rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views, where the juxtaposition of historic buildings and modern skyscrapers is a feast for the lens.

Nearby, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II offers another architectural wonder. This 19th-century glass-domed shopping arcade combines opulent neoclassical and baroque styles, with its intricate mosaic floors and stunning iron-and-glass ceiling creating endless opportunities for dramatic compositions. It’s a perfect spot for capturing reflections and light interplay, especially during the golden hour.

 

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Milan’s modern architecture is equally captivating. The Porta Nuova district, with its striking skyscrapers like the Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest), showcases the city’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. Meanwhile, the Fondazione Prada and its mix of industrial and futuristic design, along with the cutting-edge architecture of the CityLife district, provide a playground for contemporary photographers.

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Whether you’re drawn to the ornate details of historic landmarks or the sleek lines of modern design, Milan is an endless source of inspiration. With its ever-changing light and vibrant atmosphere, the city invites photographers to capture its essence from every angle—a truly stunning destination for those looking to create visual masterpieces.