Milan Vacation for Seniors

As day two begins in Milan, you can savor a morning cappuccino and tasty breakfast. An exploration into the art of Milan will highlight your day, and the tour will begin with a visit to the Brera Art Gallery. The gallery is home to one of Italy’s most extensive collection of paintings. As you journey through the museum, you will see magnificent works of art by renowned artists such as Raphael and Caravaggio. The paintings will depict stories of past times, and you will feel as though you have stepped back in history. Many of these masterworks will take your breath away as they are truly magnificent sites to witness. After leaving the gallery, you can enjoy some time to explore the nearby Brera Botanical Garden, which is filled with beautiful flowers and luscious trees.

You will pause for a light lunch outside in the crisp, fresh air before the tour then continues to the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. The ancient church dates back to the 15th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you arrive, you can see the bright, red bricks and the impressive dome that was designed by Bramante. Once inside, you will marvel at the tall detailed columns and many Gothic style details. The expert guide will then lead you to the refectory or dining hall of the former convent to see a true masterpiece: Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper. The painting is an exquisite depiction of the Biblical story, and you will almost be able to feel the emotions that are evoked from the realistic features and details in the renowned work. This will be a sight that you never forget, and it will even have you telling stories once you return home.

As the sun rises over the Duomo, another day will begin in Milan. The city is recognized around the world as a fashion capital, and this morning, you will have the opportunity to explore Italy’s oldest shopping mall: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Your local guide will greet you upon your arrival at the Galleria and provide a brief look at its intriguing history and design. You will admire the glass and iron details and ornate storefronts of the mall as you learn that the construction of the mall dates back to 1865. Then, enjoy several hours at your leisure to discover the many high-end shops. The biggest names in fashion, from Gucci to Prada, will be found around every corner, and the distinct smell of leather will emanate from the many fine shops and fill your nose with desire. You can find a soft, Italian leather bag or a gorgeous piece of gold jewelry as you journey from one boutique to the next with the rich aroma of Italian leather following your every step. A tasty mozzarella and tomato panini from one of the mall’s many cafes will be a delicious lunch and a great way to conclude your visit.

Later in the day, you will bask in a unique perspective of the city when you take an evening cruise along the Naviglio Grande Canal. Milan’s canal system dates back hundreds of years, and today, only two of the canals are open to tourists. As the boat glides around the water, you will feel completely relaxed and enjoy the soft breeze. You will learn about the Darsena, which is Milan’s historical dock as you pass beautifully illuminated buildings and conclude another wonderful day in Milan.

The pleasant smell of fresh bread from a local bakery will waft into your hotel room window and be a welcome wake-up call on the morning of day four. A day trip to the nearby area of Franciacorta, in the Province of Brescia, will highlight the day. After breakfast, board the private transfer for the short but scenic ride through the Lombardy Region. Soon, arrive at a winery perfectly perched among the picturesque hills. As a guide begins a tour, you will learn about the history of winemaking in the area. Franciacorta is known for its premier variety of sparkling wine which holds the distinct denominazione di origine controllata e garantita or DOCG status. Literally meaning a controlled and guaranteed designation of origin, this special status is awarded by the Italian government and ensures the wine’s quality. A delicious platter of sharp Parmigiano cheese and salty olives will pair perfectly with your glass of sparkling wine. The bubbles of the tasty Franciacorta blend will dazzle your taste buds, and you will savor every sip.

The private transfer will return to Milan by early evening and the night will be at leisure. You can indulge in a tasty dinner at a local restaurant, stroll around the winding streets of the city, or simply relax in the comforts of your hotel as another exciting day comes to a close.

As locals and tourists alike start to fill the streets, another day will begin in Milan. Day five will feature visits to Sforza Castle and the famous La Scala Opera House, which will both tantalize your senses. With coffee in hand, you will first head to the ancient Sforza Castle. The towers and courtyards of the castle complex will be immaculate. The site was previously everything from a fortress to a residence, but today it is the home of multiple fascinating and educational museums. As you are led through the castle, you can admire the paintings and antique furniture that adorn the walls and halls. A highlight of the visit will be seeing the great artist, Michelangelo’s, last sculpture: the Rondanini Pietà. He worked on this until his dying days, and the intricate details will prove to be absolutely astounding. Sempione Park, which is located near the castle, will be a great place to spend some time after your tour ends. The over 100 acres of greenery and sweet-smelling flowers will delight you and provide a peaceful afternoon atmosphere.

Later in the day, your tour will continue to La Scala Opera House. Marvel at the lavish interior of the legendary building as you are led on a private tour. The decadent chandelier will sparkle above the gold and velvet décor, and your chance to walk across the famous stage will be a very memorable experience. Next, you will explore the opera house’s museum and have the exclusive opportunity to see the old costumes and instruments that once graced the stage. It will be like taking a trip through time as you imagine all of the instruments and costumes coming to life for a private show. The opera will then truly come to life as you return to the main auditorium to indulge in a live opera show. You will feel the power and passion of the performers’ stunning voices, and it will be an unforgettable night.

Day six of your vacation through Milan will be highlighted with an exciting excursion to the lakeside city of Como. You will board your private transfer after breakfast to begin your short and picturesque ride. Upon your arrival in the city, you will automatically feel relaxed when you set your eyes on the gorgeous Lake Como. The lake is a popular destination, and the water will shimmer in the daylight. The historic city of Como borders the lake and is filled with age-old attractions. An expert guide will lead a tour of some of these sites. Charming buildings and old churches can be found around every corner, and you will discover the main square, Piazza Cavour, while you head to the 14th-century Como Cathedral. The stone carvings, statues, and combination of Gothic and Renaissance styles will make the Cathedral a fascinating destination.

Then, you can take some time to explore some of the silk shops or dine on a lakeside lunch before you venture out on a private afternoon boat ride around Lake Como. With a glass of Italian sparkling wine, or spumante, in hand, you will glide around the picturesque and peaceful waters. Stunning villas and waterfront towns will captivate you as the boat journeys around this amazing locale. When the boat ride concludes, you will board the private transfer to return to Milan by the evening. The rest of the evening will be at your leisure, so you can retire to the comforts of your luxurious accommodation or take a stroll along the intimate, Milanese streets.

Savor a morning espresso as storefronts around the city open for the day. The seventh day of your trip will be highlighted with visits to the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio and the Monumental Cemetery. The Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio was dedicated by Saint Ambrose who would later become the patron saint of the city in the fourth century. The current day structure was completed years after in the 11th century, and as you are led around the ancient Basilica, you will marvel at the large atrium, detailed carvings, and golden altar.

The delectable smells from a local café will draw you in for lunch before the tour then continues to the Monumental Cemetery. Considered to be an open-air museum, this intriguing destination features a collection of statues and monuments that have been dedicated to the prestigious families of years past. Massive and intricate sculptures pay homage to the Campari Family who is famous for their liquor aperitif in addition to the great Italian conductor Arturo Toscanini. You will find yourself in awe of the gorgeous statues that will fill you with feelings of calm and peace.

After the day’s tour concludes, you will delight in a delicious dinner of veal cutlet Milanese at an authentic restaurant. The streets will be beautifully illuminated under the night sky as you enjoy your final evening in the city.

On the morning of day eight, you will watch the sun rise over Milan one last time. High-end boutiques will display their leather goods in the windows while bakeries prepare the fresh pastries of the day. Stroll around the city to take in the wonderful sights and smells of Milan before returning to the hotel where a private transfer will wait to bring you to Malpensa Airport for the return flight. This will be the ideal time to take one last, savory breath of the rich Italian leather or to pick up any last-minute souvenirs that you may need. You will have experienced the best of Milan during this memorable 8-day senior vacation.