Milano by train: Lausanne – Milan
We left Lausanne on a bright morning, boarding a train to Milan. Traveling by train always feels like the best way to go: the landscapes flow by gently, with glimpses of Lake Geneva, the Alps, and Lake Como. In just a few hours, we were stepping into Milan, ready for a weekend to remember.
Navigli and our favorite hostel
Our base was Navigli, a district that immediately stole our hearts. We stayed at Combo Hostel, which we already knew from Venice. We love the simplicity and raw charm of these places, perfectly blended into the spirit of the neighborhood. It’s the kind of place where you just want to stay, take it slow, and soak in the atmosphere.
Street art at Giardino delle Culture, bikes, and our first Aperol spritz
Milan’s bike-share system is incredibly convenient, and we found bikes right next to our hostel. Our first ride led us to the Giardino delle Culture, in Via Emilio Morosini. This small square, surrounded by massive murals and vibrant street art, had a unique creative vibe. There, in the middle of colors and art, we decided it was time for our first Aperol spritz. In Italy, aperitivo time is always the right time.
Bosco Verticale: where nature meets design
We kept pedaling until we reached the Bosco Verticale, the iconic vertical forest. Covered with hundreds of trees and plants, this building embodies Milan’s bold blend of sustainability and design.
A sweet evening in Navigli
Back in Navigli, we ended the day by the canal, with pasta, wine, and the lively evening vibe that makes this area unforgettable.
The Duomo and Milan’s monumental side
The next morning, we headed to the historic center. The Duomo was as breathtaking as ever. Its white marble façade, gothic spires, and vast interior always leave us in awe.
Later, we wandered into the university district for a coffee, then made our way to the Monumental Cemetery, which opened in 1866. More than just a cemetery, it is an open-air museum with extravagant mausoleums built by Milan’s most influential families. Walking through it feels like traveling through history.
Parks, castle, and festive vibes
We continued to Parco Sempione and the Castello Sforzesco, a peaceful and historical green oasis. As usual, the day ended in Navigli, laughing over drinks in its buzzing night atmosphere.
Sunday night at Frida: a hidden gem in Isola
On Sunday evening, we followed friends’ advice and discovered Frida in the Isola neighborhood. This place is a hidden gem: part warehouse, part garden, filled with plants, mismatched furniture, and a laid-back, bohemian vibe. The cocktail list is endless, the crowd eclectic—locals, students, artists—and the atmosphere is warm and vibrant. It was the perfect discovery to extend our evening, which of course ended back in Navigli.
A farewell with pasta and gelato
On Monday morning, we enjoyed one last coffee in Navigli, followed by a final stroll along the canals. Before boarding the train back to Lausanne, we couldn’t resist one last plate of pasta and a creamy Italian gelato. The perfect farewell to Milan.
This weekend reminded us how Milan is meant to be experienced: through art, food, design, and its unique neighborhood spirit. And we know we’ll be back.