Milan Italy

I can now say with certainty, Milan was a one-and-done for me. Just like with the big cities here in the U.S., the hustle and bustle no longer hold the same appeal. These days, give me the charm of a quiet town or a peaceful suburb over crowds and car horns any day.

Milan is vibrant, stylish, and full of life… but if I’m being honest, it left me a little underwhelmed. Still, there were moments of beauty and wonder. Attending Good Friday Mass at the Duomo was an unforgettable experience, solemn, moving, and absolutely breathtaking. Beyond that, we filled our days with long strolls, a fair amount of shopping, and of course, plenty of aperitivo.

Dinner was where Milan really shined. One standout meal featured traditional Osso Buco with creamy Risotto alla Milanese, paired with a Brunello di Montalcino that quite literally knocked me off my feet.

We wandered through different neighborhoods, the fashion district, the canal zone, and took in the impressive Castello Sforzesco. Built in the 15th century atop a 14th-century fortress, it once stood as one of the largest citadels in Europe. The layers of history and architecture were striking.

Some traditions remain the same with each trip to Italy: afternoon Spritzes, pasta-filled lunches, and a little indulgent shopping. A visit to the iconic Pasticceria Marchesi, perched above the Prada store and world-renowned for its panettone, was a sweet midday pause, paired with espresso and people-watching.

One memorable dinner was right at our hotel’s stunning restaurant, which doubles as an art gallery. With panoramic views of the mosaic bull in the Galleria below, the space was as elegant as the food. Speaking of the hotel, Galleria Vik (part of Hilton’s Curio Collection), it was truly special. Half boutique hotel, half private museum, each floor featured different works of art. Wandering the halls felt like its own kind of sightseeing.

The location couldn’t have been more ideal: tucked into the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Italy’s oldest active shopping arcade. And thanks to my longtime Hilton Diamond status, we enjoyed some fabulous upgrades, all booked on points, one of the sweet perks from my former corporate days.

Evenings ended with la passeggiata—a nightly walk, and our last night to admire the Duomo all lit up. It stopped me in my tracks.

That said, a word of advice: venture beyond the tourist zones for meals. Some of the restaurants near the Duomo and Galleria were overpriced, underwhelming, and often came with pushy service. That was a real turn off, but I should have known better honestly.

In the end, Milan was a bit too intense for my taste. I’m glad I saw it, glad I experienced its elegance and energy, but I’m also glad to cross it off my list.