Hello milanese people! With temperatures going down by the minute, here is a guide that can help you find a destination to try in order to avoid the cold or immerse into it even deeper for the month of December.

We are going to Monte Carlo!

As Leighton Meester would say in the famous 2011 movie, “we are going to Monte Carlo!” 

Right off the French riviera, Monte Carlo is known for its wealthy inhabitants, luxury shops all around the place and the streets being a Formula 1 circuit. While people mostly visit Monaco during the summer season, many fail to recognise the beauty of it during off-season. There are far less crowds and the weather makes it the perfect escape from the Milanese winter frost. 

Just a four hour train or car ride away from Milan, the monegasque land is really an amazing idea for a long weekend away. Even though it only takes up about 2 sq. Km, there are many gems to enjoy around the area. 

To fully immerse in the Monaco lifestyle, the first spot on the list has to be The Casino. It is open to visitors both for tours and to test their luck (advised to be done carefully). For the F1 fanatics, even the main square in front is an attraction within itself, being part of the circuit that then to the right continues towards The Hairpin turn. 

For the more adventurous people, a good hike to The Royal Palace is a picturesque treat! On the way there, one can soak up the beauty of the entire principate and also pass by the port area. On the off season, this area is home to many famous yachts but also other unique boats. But for the people who don’t fill like getting their steps in, there’s always the option to go to The Lavrotto Beach and watch the sunset. A good restaurant over there is Giacomo, part of the Big Mamma Group, that serves traditional Italian dishes with a twist. 

Budapest, travelling to two places in one

The history of Budapest narrates that the city we now know as the hungarian capital, was formed by unifying Buda and Pest that are separated by the Danube. The influences of the old towns can still be seen today, as the Buda side is rich in old historical buildings, while Pest is the side that accommodates people in their day to day lives.

This destination is usually overlooked, but for no good reason. There is something for everyone in Budapest. While the weather may not be any better than the one in Milan, there are many activities for any kind of taste. If you are looking for a relaxing getaway, trying the Budapest Thermal Baths can be the solution for you. While leisure is important, the culinary experiences are not ones to miss during the stay there. The kurtos (chimney cake) is a traditional sweet treat that is smothered in sugar, but it can also come with different toppings. One must also try the goulash soup and the langos (hybrid between a doughnut and a pie).  Last but not least, for a fun experience, bar hopping is certainly recommended in Budapest.

In search of scandi vibes in Copenhagen

We all dream of seeing the Northern Lights at some point in our life. For the ones that do not see themselves travelling to Lapland or any other destination in the arctic circle in the near future, maybe a trip to Copenhagen this December might be the solution. While the chances are relatively low, the aurora borealis could make an appearance while star gazing in the capital of Denmark. 

Scandi style has been a trend ever since Mathilda Djerf became viral. The charm of the danish, finnish, swedish and norwegian people and customs cannot be ignored. By being simple yet elegant, they have some of the best style choices in the entire world, that have heavily influenced our generation. 

So, for whoever is in search of a unique destination for this December, Copenhagen is just the place. Not only does it give off Christmas vibes, but it also has a little bit of everything. Coffee lovers can get lost in minimalistic coffee shops and pastries, party people can hop on the clubbing scene and fashion enthusiasts can enjoy long walks through the city streets and get inspiration for the whole winter season to come. 

Which destination would you choose to run away from Milan for a weekend?