Hello my darling tutu-loving friends! It's your favourite pink-tutu-wearing ballerina, Emma, back from another fabulous adventure, this time all the way in the heart of Italy – Milan! The city of fashion, the city of culture, and the city of...delicious food? (Yes, I had to add that one in!)
I touched down in Milan on Tuesday afternoon, the train journey from the airport was so picturesque, passing by fields dotted with brightly coloured flowers and rolling hills bathed in golden sunlight. It felt like a fairytale come to life, which is how I felt stepping off the train and into the bustling energy of Milano Centrale station.
Tutu-fying Milan
Let me tell you, I felt right at home here in Milan, a city with a similar passion for elegance and style as my own Derbyshire. I'm not just talking about fashion, though that is something that takes centre stage in this city, but the architecture, the grand buildings with ornate detailing, even the charming cobbled streets ooze sophistication. I must confess I almost forgot I was in a country that uses a different language! That's because the moment I set foot on Milanese soil, the familiar thrill of the theatre coursed through me. The streets felt alive with creative energy, with artists showcasing their work, street musicians creating magical soundscapes, and an undeniable air of romance that only a city brimming with passion could provide.
You know what the best part is? Milan has the most amazing trams! I've already clocked up miles on them, whizzing through the streets, admiring the glorious gothic architecture. It feels so wonderfully glamorous and chic. I can just picture a scene from a classic ballet movie, the tram slowly chugging along with a dancer, in her shimmering pink tutu, peering out the window. Oh, wouldn't that be fabulous?
Pink Tutu Adventures: La Scala, Fashion and Beyond
So, I've already crammed a ton into my Milanese experience, and it's only Wednesday! I kicked off my exploration with a visit to the iconic Teatro alla Scala, which for those of you who haven’t heard, is like a mecca for opera and ballet. Honestly, it took my breath away! Stepping into this magnificent venue felt like entering a different world. The intricate design, the plush velvet seating, the glorious stage, and, most importantly, the energy crackling through the theatre, all transported me back to the golden age of ballet. It was utterly magical.
After my Scala escapade, I embarked on a shopping spree that even the most avid fashionista would envy. I can't resist a good window shopping opportunity, and let me tell you, Milan is bursting with designer boutiques, with everything from classic elegance to edgy contemporary fashion. My suitcase might be looking a bit heavy, but my pink tutu collection? Well, that's growing exponentially!
My love of clothes shopping extended to visiting the beautiful Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. It is a stunning, historic arcade filled with incredible fashion, gourmet delights and luxurious coffee houses. I must confess, I indulged in a perfectly made macchiato amidst the grandeur of the Galleria. Pure bliss.
But it's not all tutus and shopping in Milan! On Wednesday, I got my ballet fix with a fabulous performance at the Teatro dell'Arte. It was a dazzling display of grace and technical brilliance, leaving me awestruck and completely inspired. I think I might have a few steps in my repertoire to try later in the week – I just need to find somewhere big enough to dance in!
The Week Ahead in Milan: Ballet, Food and More
I've only just begun my Milan adventure and I can tell this city is going to keep me very busy! This week promises an abundance of delicious food, fabulous fashion, and more spectacular ballet performances.
The list of what I want to achieve this week is lengthy, here's a snippet of the delicious itinerary I have lined up.
Thursday: More shopping! My shopping bag is ready for the Duomo, the most incredible gothic cathedral and one of Milan's architectural gems. And I'll be exploring more hidden alleyways, where I'm sure there will be some truly unique finds, hidden away.
Friday: It’s back to ballet and the grand Scala. This time for a magnificent opera, because you can't come to Milan without soaking up the Italian opera scene, right? My love of pink tutus doesn't stop me from appreciating beautiful music. And for this one, I am even planning a slightly different ensemble!
Saturday: More delicious delights! You see, Milan has a world of culinary treasures to discover, with authentic trattorias serving up divine pasta dishes, pizzerias where the dough practically sings, and gelato parlors tempting you with rainbow coloured delights!
Sunday: A ballet performance and, yes, even more fashion! I will make a final visit to one of Milan’s fabulous art galleries and spend time reflecting on the stunning beauty of Italy, before heading back to Derbyshire to rest before a busy week ahead.
This blog is just a tiny glimpse of what's been happening in my pink-tutu-filled Milan. Make sure you keep an eye on my website for even more photos and tales of my adventures here, and maybe, just maybe, a little peek into what will be coming up for the remainder of the week.
Until next time, my darlings, ciao bella and remember… life is a stage and every single one of us deserves to dance!
