Western Mediterranean Cruise Days 10-11: Exploring Genoa and Milan
On the 10th and 11th days of our 9-night, 11-day Western Mediterranean cruise, we visited the charming cities of Genoa in Italy and Milan. This journey, which took place from September 8th to 18th, 2023, concluded with visits to the Neptune Ships, Palazzo San Giorgio, Genoa Cathedral, Piazza Ferrari, and Milan’s Scala Theatre and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
Exploring the Main Attractions of Genoa
Our first activity in Genoa was to explore the Neptune Ships (Vascello Neptune). Located at Porto antico, Molo Ponte Calvi, 16124 Genova GE, this ship boasted a magnificent presence. Although we didn’t have enough time to tour the interior, its sheer existence was impressive.
Next, we visited the Palazzo San Giorgio (Palazzo San Giorgio), the first public palace in Genoa. Situated at Palazzo San Giorgio, 2, 16126 Genova GE, this historic building was interestingly located right in front of the ferry terminal. The early morning streets of Genoa were quiet, allowing for a leisurely stroll.
The Genoa Cathedral at Piazza S. Lorenzo, 16123 Genova GE, captivated us with its beautiful details. Its exterior was so charming that we took many photos, but unfortunately, interior photography was prohibited.
Genoa is also famous for its focaccia, which is said to be a good light breakfast option. Walking through the streets of Genoa, we also noticed unique souvenir shops selling items like handmade chessboards, but we postponed purchases due to price and portability concerns. Additionally, we bought cold medicine from a pharmacy in preparation for the significant temperature fluctuations, and were surprised by the higher prices compared to Korea.
Into the Splendor of Milan
After concluding our activities in Genoa, we headed to Wu Taiyo Fusion Ranzoni 6 Milano (Viale Daniele Ranzoni, 6, 20149 Milano MI) for our final lunch. The salmon salad and assorted sushi we had here were excellent, and we particularly enjoyed the salmon so much that we had it twice. Hot udon and crispy tempura were also served, but we were too full from the previous dishes to do more than taste them. The watermelon served as our final dessert was sweet and added to the enjoyment of the trip.
After lunch, we visited Milan’s iconic landmarks. The Scala Theatre (Teatro alla Scala) at Via Filodrammatici, 2, 20121 Milano MI, a world-renowned opera house, overwhelmed us with its grandeur. We took a short break at the adjacent Scala Theatre restaurant (Ristorante Teatro alla Scala il Foyer), enjoying refreshing drinks. The caramel macchiato, in particular, was better than expected.
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II at P.za del Duomo, 20123 Milano MI, was filled with numerous luxury boutiques, creating a glamorous atmosphere. With an overwhelming number of people, just a brief look was enough to grasp its scale. The adjacent Piazza Duomo was also bustling with crowds, allowing us to feel Milan’s vibrant energy.
We enjoyed souvenir shopping and shopping at Zara in Milan, savoring the final moments of our trip. The Genoa at Piazza della Scala, 5, 20121 Milano MI, was our meeting point, and we paused briefly in front of the Scala Square located there. Although we didn’t capture it in photos, our last gelato was also an unforgettable memory.
On our way back, we ate kimbap we had packed from a kimbap restaurant in Milan, missing the taste of Korea. Arriving at Incheon International Airport via Milan Malpensa International Airport, we felt a great sense of regret that the trip had ended. Although the small scratches on our luggage were not compensated, we were proud of ourselves for managing to fit souvenirs into our 20-inch suitcases. Starting our first European trip by cruise made us feel our standards had become too high, and we now dream of a world cruise next time. The travelogue of the hot summer of 2023 has finally concluded.
