Hi, I’m Gianluca.
I studied cultural anthropology, and I’ve always been fascinated by the different ways people live, move, and experience a place.
Rome is not only my city – it’s the environment I love observing, understanding, and sharing through these small stories.
Together with my wife Connie, we host travellers in our small hotel near the Vatican, where we enjoy meeting people from all over the world and exchanging perspectives – just as I do here in the blog.
If you ever feel like saying hello while exploring Rome, you’ll find us on our terrace as well, where every morning we serve breakfast with a view.
Gianluca
After a restful night at NH Hotel Collection Milano Touring, we began our second day in Milan with a delightful breakfast. Fueled and ready for the day, we set off on foot to explore the city at a leisurely pace, embracing both its modern flair and timeless elegance.
Morning in the Fashion District
We started our day in Milan’s Quadrilatero della Moda, the city’s luxurious fashion district. Strolling along Via della Spiga and Via Monte Napoleone, we were surrounded by stunning window displays from some of the world’s most iconic fashion houses. Even if shopping wasn’t on the agenda, the beauty of these streets, with their refined facades and chic atmosphere, made for an enjoyable experience.
Afternoon in Piazza del Duomo
Our next stop was Piazza del Duomo, the heart of Milan and home to the city’s most famous landmark, the Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano). While we didn’t climb to the rooftop this time, simply standing in the square, marveling at the intricacy of the Duomo’s Gothic design, was breathtaking. The vibrant energy of the piazza, with street performers and bustling cafes, added to the charm of the moment.
A Touch of Culture: La Scala and Manzoni’s Home
On our way through the city, we took a moment to admire two of Milan’s most significant cultural landmarks:
- Teatro alla Scala: Known as one of the world’s most renowned opera houses, La Scala is an architectural and cultural icon. Its elegant exterior hints at the grandeur within, making it a must-see for any visitor to Milan.
- Casa di Alessandro Manzoni: A stop at the birthplace of one of Italy’s greatest authors, best known for The Betrothed (I Promessi Sposi), added a literary touch to our journey. Standing before the house, we reflected on how his works have shaped Italian literature and culture.
Dinner at La Vecchia Guardia
As evening approached, we treated ourselves to a traditional Milanese dinner at La Vecchia Guardia, a warm and inviting restaurant known for its classic dishes. The menu highlighted two of Milan’s culinary treasures:
- Risotto alla Milanese: A creamy saffron-infused risotto that’s as much a feast for the eyes as for the taste buds. Its golden hue and delicate flavor perfectly captured the essence of Milanese cuisine.
- Cotoletta alla Milanese: A breaded and fried veal cutlet, tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. This iconic dish, served in a generous portion, was a true delight.
Back to the Hotel
With satisfied appetites and a day well spent, we made our way back to the hotel. The evening stroll through the illuminated streets of Milan added a magical touch to the end of our second day. Tomorrow, we would dive deeper into the city’s artistic and cultural heritage, but for now, it was time to rest.