Kahani 10: From Swiss Alps to Italian Charm – A Birthday in Lake Como


From Alps to Aperitivo: Celebrating Love, Birthdays & First Steps into Italy

 




Sadly, it was time to say goodbye to the magical Swiss Alps and close this unforgettable Swiss chapter for the next time. Our hearts were heavy — Switzerland had given us more than just memories; it had given us stories, laughter, and a sense of wonder that will stay with us forever. But as one journey ends, another begins...

A Sweet Farewell & A Birthday Morning

 
That morning was special. It was my partner’s birthday, and we celebrated it in our own simple, heartfelt way. The night before, we had picked up a little cake from Coop (yes, we practically hopped into every Swiss local store — Coop, Migros, Denner — in every city we visited!).
 
So, with sleepy eyes, laughter, and hearts full of love, we cut the cake. A little sweetness before a big journey. And a lot of giggles too — because by now, our suitcases were overflowing with Swiss chocolates and souvenirs, leaving hardly any room for clothes.
 
Truly, we were carrying Switzerland with us in the form of chocolate treasures!

Luzern to Lugano to Lake Como


We boarded the train from Luzern, heading first towards Lugano and then landed to – Lake Como (our very first step in Italy).With some time in hand before our connecting train, we left our luggage safely at the station and decided to step into the Italian vibe.



A Birthday Lunch by Lake Como


And what better way to celebrate a birthday than with Italian food right by the lake?

We sat down to a cozy lunch overlooking the shimmering waters of Lake Como — indulging in truffle pasta, freshly baked pizza, Italian drinks, and lots of laughter. A little bird even kept us company, waiting patiently for our “munchkins” to drop a crumb or two — a moment that made us smile even wider. After lunch, we bought a heavy to heavy Gelato and strolled around the lake (with a realisation, why they say summer in Europe are hotter). 

The timeless Italian architecture, serene lake views reflected the elegance of Como. We had limited time, but even those short moments were enough to understand why Lake Como is one of Italy’s gems.

Hello Milan!


Yes, you heard it right — the city of fashion, style, and streets buzzing with energy. We boarded our train and soon arrived in Milan. The contrast was instant — from the quiet elegance of Lake Como to the fast-paced hustle of Milan. We navigated our way through the station, hopped onto a crowded local bus, and reached our hotel. After a quick check-in, a change of clothes, and a little refresh , it was time to see Milan come alive at night.

Navigli Nights


With our freshly purchased 2-Day Milan Pass, we jumped onto the metro and headed to Navigli, Milan’s lively canal district. The atmosphere was electric — glowing streetlights reflecting in the canals, cafes buzzing with people, and the sound of chatter and laughter filling the air.

We enjoyed an amazing dinner, walked by the canals soaking in the vibrant nightlife, and just let ourselves be swept up by Milan’s charm. As the night approached, we returned to our hotel with tired, happy, and ready for the next adventures.

Final Thought

Leaving Switzerland wasn’t just about crossing a border; it felt like leaving behind a piece of our hearts. The mountains, lakes, trains, and little encounters had stitched themselves into our story, making it harder to say goodbye. Yet, as we stepped into Italy, there was excitement in the air — a new country, new flavors, and new adventures waiting to be written. Sometimes, the beauty of travel lies in this bittersweet rhythm — holding on to memories of yesterday while opening your arms to the wonders of tomorrow.


💡 Travel Tip


  • Lake Como in Transit: If you’re traveling with luggage, most stations like Como and Milan offer luggage storage at a nominal fee. This gives you the freedom to explore stress-free.
  • Quick Como Round: If you have just a few hours, focus on lakeside walks, local eateries, and a short boat ride as it gives you enough to feel Como’s charm.
  • Milan Pass: Buying a 2-Day Milan Pass is worth it if you’re planning to use public transport often and visit multiple attractions. It saves both money and the hassle of individual tickets.
  • Evenings in Milan: For your first night, skip the tourist crowds at the Duomo and head straight to Navigli for dinner and a real taste of Milan’s nightlife.

 


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