Double the Italian Adventure: A Perfect Milan and Venice City Break by Rail
Why settle for just one captivating Italian destination when you can effortlessly combine two into a single, enriching holiday? Italy's superb railway system makes it remarkably simple to hop between its most iconic cities, allowing travellers to maximise their experience. On a recent interrail journey, I explored both Milan, the global fashion capital, and Venice, the enchanting city of canals, discovering that this twin-city approach offers twice the culture, cuisine, and charm.
Milan: Fashion, Flamingos, and Culinary Delights
Milan is renowned worldwide for its biannual fashion weeks and abundance of designer boutiques, making it a paradise for style enthusiasts. My stay began at the Avani Palazzo Moscova, a historic hotel in the Porta Nuova district that once housed the city's first railway station in 1840. The hotel's chic, modern rooms provided a comfortable base, and its concierge service offered curated experiences to enhance the visit.
One highlight was a two-hour tour in a vintage Fiat 500, driven by Milan-native Federico. This unique excursion revealed hidden treasures like Villa Invernizzi, a tranquil garden oasis in the bustling city where flamingos roam freely. The open sunroof added to the fun, offering an authentic feel for Milan's vibrant streets.
Another memorable activity was a personalised cosmetics session at City Lab Cosmetics, where I crafted my own lipstick from scratch, selecting the shade, finish, and scent under expert guidance. Shopping followed with an expert-led tour of Milan's vintage boutiques, ranging from bargain finds like a five-euro black bag to upmarket stores featuring Chanel and Gucci pieces.
Milan's culinary scene did not disappoint, with staples like pasta and risotto shining. Avani Palazzo Moscova's restaurant specialised in fish, and their tableside tiramisu was a standout. Nearby, Osteria del Gambero Rosso offered a friendly atmosphere and delicious meals just minutes from the hotel.
Venice: Canals, Crafts, and Sunset Magic
A swift two-hour train ride transported me to Venice, where stepping out of the station revealed a postcard-perfect view of gondolas and water taxis gliding along the canals. It felt like entering a cinematic world. My accommodation was the Avani Rio Novo Venice, nestled in a local neighbourhood away from tourist crowds, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering serene canal views.
As a first-time visitor, a gondola ride was essential, and it lived up to expectations. Our gondolier shared fascinating facts and tips, such as using cash for better rates and splitting costs with groups. The Avani hotel facilitated various experiences, including a visit to Lunardelli Venezia, a workshop where I learned about intricate woodcraft and tried my hand at creating a piece.
A water taxi arranged by the hotel took us to the Murano islands, famous for glass-making. At a workshop that supplies beads for Milan Fashion Week, I crafted my own bead as a unique souvenir. Exploring Venice's landmarks, we crossed the historic Rialto Bridge and wandered through narrow alleys to St Mark's Square, arriving at sunset for a truly magical atmosphere.
Seamless Travel and Practical Tips
Both Milan and Venice exceeded all expectations, showcasing Italy's diverse appeal. The country's efficient rail network makes city-hopping a smart and stress-free option for travellers. To book this dual-destination break, single rooms at Avani Palazzo Moscova Milan start from £205 per night, while standard rooms at Avani Rio Novo Venice begin at £167 per night. This combination offers an immersive Italian escape, blending urban sophistication with timeless romance.
