Milano: A Gray Day with Spires and Salad

 

Sunday, November 2, 2025

I missed breakfast today — slept straight through it. I didn’t open my eyes until nearly 10:00 a.m., and oh, did that feel good. The night was rough; I tossed and turned until around six, then finally crashed hard. Jet lag is no joke.

Eventually, I rallied and made my way to the Duomo for a self-guided tour. After circling the perimeter a few times (surely I’m not the only one who can’t immediately find the “audio guide” pickup spot?), I finally had my headset and joined the so-called “skip the line” line. Pro tip: you never truly skip the line — though paying extra does make it move a little faster.

This wasn’t much of a “tour,” but it did include access to the terraces via elevator. Worth it. Even with the rain and slick stone underfoot — the terrace is sloped, which did nothing for my nerves — the view from up high among the spires and statues was surreal. I climbed the final stairway to the very top, and let’s just say: not recommended for the faint of heart or anyone unsure on their feet. (Alex, your balance drills are paying off!)

The view itself? Honestly… underwhelming. Milan’s skyline doesn’t exactly inspire poetry, and under a gray, rainy sky, it all felt a bit muted. Still, standing amid centuries of carved marble — that part was extraordinary.

The descent was by foot — no elevator down — which deposited me right onto the main floor just as Mass was underway. The altar and its surrounding splendor were stunning; the scale of everything inside that cathedral is humbling.

I spent the afternoon wandering Milan’s streets, walking about a mile to an optical shop where I’d spotted some eyeglass cases during Saturday’s tour. Despite Google Maps’ optimism, the shop was closed. Grrr.

I strolled back to Hotel Sina De La Ville and parked myself in the bar for a while (more on that later). Dinner was simple and perfect: Caesar salad and calamari — exactly what I needed.

I managed to stay awake for the first half of the Chiefs game, which kicked off at 10:00 p.m. Italy time. I gave up before the end. They lost. Così è la vita.