During my Christmastime visit to Poland, I decided to grab an easyJet over to one of my favorite cities in one of my favorite countries - Milan.
This was my 5th time in Italy, and fourth time in Milan. There’s something about this city - the mix of beautiful Italian architecture, easygoing people, great food, and high fashion keep pulling me back here year after year. Outside the main plaza the city is relatively quiet and full of sidestreets, shops, and restaurants to explore which makes for a really great relaxing place to getaway to.
I decided to stay in the Brera district at the Carlyle Brera Hotel, the same place I stayed in 2017 when I was last there. A great location just steps away from the metro, restaurants, gelato, and even at Eataly.
One of Milan’s most popular landmarks is Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the city’s oldest shopping mall named after the first King of the Kingdom of Italy. Finished in 1867 it’s downright brand new new by Italian standards, however the enormous glass vaults and dome along with the ornate interior facade give it a classic, timeless look. Every time I see it in person, it’s hard to not stop and stare at it all and take in the beauty. During Christmas it’s especially gorgeous, with the center dome full of lights along with a Christmas tree by Swarovski decorated with 10,000 individual crystals.
No matter what time of day it is, the streets will always give you something interesting to photograph whether it be the beautiful architecture, seasonal decorations, or vibrant hustle of the city itself.
