We started it sipping a cappuccino along the Canal.
After breakfast and making sure the kids were set to be alone for the day, we set off for our romantic day trip to Milan - just the two of us. On the train we enjoyed a picnic with wine.
Arriving to Milan, however, is where the romance ended. This trip was no joy ride for Greg - we were picking up our car to begin the next phase of our journey. He is the designated driver, which currently wasn't boding well (he likes trains!). The 2 1/2 hour drive from Milan to Venice is very easy - a straight shot on the freeway.
The driver is a bit stressed
Relieved to be off the road and back in Venice
It was a long day that we ended with a late, delicious home cooked meal. Unfortunately we waited until our last night in Italy to try real Italian sausage - it has a great flavor!
Logistics:
- Walking from Rialto Bridge to the train station took us 20 minutes. Add in extra time if 1) you are carrying luggage, and 2) you don't know how to get around - you will get "lost".
- We took the train to Milano Centrale and then the Starfly airport bus to Linate airport (€5 each). We could have picked up the car at Malpensa but it is €10 each to get there and an hour further away from both Milan and Venice.
- Train vs Car: one way train for 2 to Milan $16. One way car to Venice: Parking $21, toll $19.30, gas ~$25 - plus rental cost!
- We parked on Venice in the Trochetto parking lot (by the cruise terminal). The people mover (like a monorail) took us to Piazzale Roma for €1.30 each. You can also walk; it is not far.
