Milan, the heart of northern Italy, is a city that effortlessly blends history, fashion, and culture. But it’s not just for the young and trendy—Milan offers a treasure trove of experiences perfect for travellers of all ages, especially those in their 50s, 60s, and beyond. On a special trip to celebrate my mum’s 60th birthday, we set out to explore Milan and its surroundings in November. Our goal? To embrace the adventure, indulge in the city’s beauty, and create memories that would last a lifetime.
Navigating Milan: The Metro and Trams
Getting around Milan was a breeze, thanks to its efficient public transport system. Mum and I relied on the underground metro and overground trams to explore the city with ease. The metro took us to iconic spots like the Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral), Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and the Santa Maria delle Grazie, where da Vinci’s The Last Supper resides. Meanwhile, the trams allowed us to take in Milan at a slower pace, offering glimpses of picturesque neighbourhoods and everyday life.
One of my favourite moments was watching Mum figure out the tram schedule with a sense of pride. She laughed as we navigated together, proving you’re never too old to pick up a new skill!
Tips:
- Purchase a day pass or multi-day pass for unlimited travel—it’s both budget-friendly and convenient.
- Avoid peak hours on the metro if you prefer quieter journeys.
Where We Stayed: AirBnB and Accommodation Tips
For this trip, we chose to stay in an Airbnb, which offered both affordability and the comforts of home. Our charming apartment was tucked away in a quiet neighbourhood but still close to transport links. We loved having our own little retreat to relax in after long days of exploring.
However, it’s worth noting that Milan is a hub for events, from Fashion Week to trade expos, which can drive up accommodation prices. If you’re planning a trip, try to book well in advance, especially during high-demand seasons.
Accommodation Tips:
- AirBnB are a great option if you want more space and flexibility.
- Milan has a variety of boutique hotels, which combine comfort with the city’s iconic sense of design.
- If travelling on a budget, look for lodging slightly outside the city centre but close to a metro line.
Cultural Highlights: Art and Architecture
Milan is a treasure trove for art and history enthusiasts. One of our first stops was the magnificent Duomo di Milano. Its intricate Gothic spires left us in awe, and Mum was delighted to find a lift to the rooftop, which meant she could enjoy the breathtaking views without tackling the stairs.
Seeing Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper was another highlight. The intimate, timed entry system ensured we had a moment to soak in its beauty without feeling rushed. Mum was particularly moved by how the painting captured both history and emotion in a single frame.
Tips:
- Book tickets for major attractions like The Last Supper well in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Many museums and attractions offer senior discounts—don’t forget to ask!
Cuisine: A Feast for the Senses
Milan’s culinary scene is as diverse as its architecture. We indulged in everything from hearty risottos to decadent pastries. For lunch, a traditional Risotto alla Milanese paired perfectly with a light aperitivo (Aperol Spritz). Dinner often featured Osso Buco, a Milanese specialty that is both comforting and flavourful.
One evening, we ventured to Navigli, a historic canal district lined with charming restaurants and cafes. Dining al fresco by the water, surrounded by the lively hum of locals, felt magical. Mum even joked that the Aperol Spritz was the “best birthday cocktail” she’d ever had!
Tips:
- Seek out smaller lunch portions or set menus for a cost-effective way to sample multiple dishes.
- If you’re visiting during colder months, embrace the comfort foods Milan is famous for.
Milan and Design: A City of Creativity
Milan’s reputation as a global design capital was evident at every turn, from the sleek interiors of cafes to the cutting-edge fashion on display. Mum, who loves interior decorating, was inspired by Milan’s effortlessly chic aesthetic. For those with a creative streak, exploring Milan’s design districts or window shopping at its high-end boutiques is a must.
Bonus Tip: If you’re visiting during Milan Design Week or Fashion Week, prepare for crowds but also incredible energy and inspiration.
Venturing Beyond Milan: Day Trips by Train
Milan’s central location and excellent rail connections make it an ideal base for exploring nearby cities. From Milano Centrale station, Mum & I ventured out to a few remarkable destinations:
- Verona: Known as the city of love, Verona enchanted us with its Roman amphitheatre, Juliet’s balcony, and charming streets. Just an hour and a half by train, it’s a manageable and a rewarding day trip.
- Monza: A shorter journey, Monza surprised us with its beautiful royal villa, expansive park and formula one racetrack – a quiet yet quick escape from Milan’s bustling streets.
- Lake Como: Although this was part of another trip, it’s worth mentioning that Como is just a short train ride away and made it an easy addition to our Milan itinerary.
Tips: Pre-book your train tickets online for smoother travel. The Italian rail system is reliable and affordable, but seats on popular routes can fill up quickly. Apps such as Trenitalia worked well for us.
Hidden Gems and Relaxing Moments
For quieter moments, we loved wandering through the Brera District, a bohemian area filled with galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. The Sforza Castle and its gardens were another favourite, offering a tranquil spot to rest and recharge.
Afternoons were often spent indulging in coffee and pastries. Mum developed a fondness for buttery Cornetto’s, while I couldn’t resist the seasonal Panettone.
Practical Tips for Milan:
- Comfortable Footwear: Milan’s cobblestone streets and tram rides call for supportive shoes. Although Milan is the fashion capital of the world, don’t strain yourself in heels if you’re walking far!
- Pace Yourself: Milan’s attractions are plentiful, but there’s no need to see everything in one trip. Build in downtime to relax and savour the city at your own pace.
- Accessible Travel: Most of Milan’s public transport and major attractions are accessibility-friendly, but it’s worth checking specific facilities if you have mobility concerns.
- Pack Smart: Layered clothing is ideal for Milan’s changing weather, especially if you plan to visit in spring or autumn. When we visited in November, the sun was hot during mid-day, but by the evenings, the nights were chilly.
Milan: A City for Every Season of Life
Overall, our time in Milan was a perfect blend of cultural discovery, culinary indulgence, and scenic exploration. The city offers a chance to experience Italy’s vibrancy at a pace that suits you. Whether you’re marvelling at masterpieces or hopping on a train to a new destination, Milan is a city that inspires and delights all ages.
For those over 50 and beyond, Milan is a city that invites you to embrace every moment with style, grace, and just the right amount of indulgence.
