Stylish Milan Stay (one disappointment but more highlights!)

September time in Milan is perfect for a visit to this amazing City! My wife and I spent 3 nights in Milan this last September, and overall, the experience exceeded our expectations in almost every way. The city center is a vibrant blend of history, high fashion, and unmistakable Italian attitude—and we loved every moment of it. We stayed at the Sospeso Boutique Hotel, which has one undeniable strength: location. Situated right in the heart of the city, it gave us easy access to the best of Milan, from the Duomo to designer boutiques and charming cafes just steps away. Unfortunately, that’s where the praise ends for the hotel. While the exterior and location promise a boutique experience, the service didn’t live up to the standard you'd expect at this price point. The staff felt inattentive, and overall, it lacked the warmth you’d hope for from a property calling itself a “boutique.” It was our only real logistical disappointment in an otherwise spectacular trip. I would advise looking for less pricey hotels unless your primary concern is location this is perfect for a short stay. (maybe try my budget recommendation attached for a wallet friendlier stay) Milan itself, however, more than made up for it. We were blown away by the sheer style of the city—not just in the fashion-forward outfits everywhere, but in the way people carry themselves and in the city’s no-nonsense, confident energy. It’s fast-paced, unapologetically chic, and completely addictive. We especially enjoyed the iconic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, not just for its stunning architecture and high-end shopping, but also for one of the best meals of our trip. Tucked inside one of the elegant indoor restaurants, we started with incredible seafood antipasti (see images) - fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented—followed by two unforgettable pizzas. It's rare to find a place that balances elegance with true Italian comfort food, but this one did it effortlessly. Dining there while watching the world go by under that glass-domed ceiling felt like a quintessential Milan moment. Of course, we visited the Duomo, which is every bit as breathtaking as it looks in photos—if not more so in person. We spent hours exploring its interior and soaking in the panoramic views from the rooftop. Our only regret? Missing out on seeing The Last Supper—we didn’t realize how far in advance tickets sell out. If you’re planning a trip, definitely book that ahead of time. All in all, Milan left a lasting impression. It’s a city that celebrates art, fashion, food, and self-expression. While our accommodation fell short, everything else—especially the shopping, the food, and the unmistakable Milanese flair—made this trip truly special. We’d go back in a heartbeat, just maybe to a different hotel next time. #milano #milan #september2025 #place2be