From mountains to metropolis: first evening in Milan

The train from Zermatt to Milan took about four hours, with a change at Brig. I watched as Switzerland's dramatic mountains gradually gave way to the Italian countryside, and finally to the urban sprawl of Milan. The contrast couldn't be more stark – from a car-free alpine village to Italy's bustling fashion and design capital.

I arrived at Milano Centrale around 16:30 and was immediately struck by the station itself. The massive fascist-era architecture with its towering hall and ornate details made me stop and stare for a few minutes before navigating toward the exit. Stepping outside, the city noise enveloped me – honking cars, street vendors, chattering pedestrians. After the quiet of Zermatt, it was almost overwhelming.

I'd booked a small hotel about 20 minutes from the station by metro. After checking in and dropping my bags, I decided to take a short evening walk to get oriented. The November air was surprisingly mild compared to the mountain chill I'd grown accustomed to. I didn't even need my heavy jacket, just a light sweater as I strolled through the streets near my hotel.

My first impression of Milan is that it's a city of contrasts – elegant designer storefronts next to humble cafés, ancient churches alongside modern office buildings. The streets pulse with energy even in the evening hours. I found a small restaurant about two blocks from my hotel and decided to treat myself to my first proper Italian meal in Italy.

The restaurant was busy but not packed, with mostly locals from what I could tell. I was seated at a small table near the window, perfect for people-watching. The waiter recommended risotto alla milanese, explaining it was a local specialty made with saffron. It arrived golden yellow and fragrant, with a richness that seemed to capture the essence of the city – sophisticated yet comforting. I paired it with a glass of local Lombardy wine and savored every bite.

As I ate, I pulled out my phone to check tomorrow's weather. Looks like rain is expected – a yellow warning for thunderstorms starting early morning. I might need to adjust my plans. I had hoped to visit the Duomo first thing, but perhaps I'll start with indoor activities instead. The Brera Art Gallery or maybe even trying to get a ticket to see "The Last Supper" might be better options if the rain is heavy.

It's strange how quickly the mind and body adjust to new surroundings. Just this morning I was in Switzerland, breathing the clean mountain air and gazing at the Matterhorn. Now I'm surrounded by the sounds and smells of an Italian metropolis. The journey continues to surprise me with these juxtapositions.

I finished my meal around 8:00 pm and walked slowly back to the hotel, taking in the evening atmosphere. Street lamps illuminated the buildings with a warm glow, and despite being a stranger here, I felt a curious sense of belonging. Perhaps it's because after 67 days of traveling, I'm becoming more comfortable with the state of transition itself.

Tomorrow I'll begin exploring Milan properly. The Duomo, Sforza Castle, and the Last Supper are high on my list, though I'll need to be flexible with the weather. For now, I'm content to rest and reflect on how far I've come – both literally and figuratively – since leaving Kristiansand just over two months ago.

The clock reads 20:20 as I finish writing this. Outside my window, Milan continues its evening symphony of urban sounds. I have 433 days left on this journey, and tonight, I feel both small in this vast city and somehow exactly where I need to be.