The Reality Reports

Day One: Getting Your Bearings In The Historic Center: Start your adventure in the Zócalo, one of the largest public squares in the world. This area serves as the heart of Mexico City and gives you a perfect introduction to the country's rich history.  Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and take a tour of the National Palace to see Diego Rivera's famous murals depicting Mexican history.  Walk down Madero Street, a pedestrian avenue filled with shops and street performers.  End your first day at the Palacio de Bellas Artes, where you can admire the building's stunning architecture even if you don't catch a performance inside.

Start Your Morning at the Duomo: Begin your day at Milan's stunning cathedral, the Duomo di Milano. This Gothic masterpiece took nearly six centuries to complete and stands as the third-largest church in Europe.  Arrive early, around 8 AM, to beat the crowds and enjoy the intricate marble facade in peaceful morning light. If you have time, buy tickets to climb to the rooftop terraces where you can walk among the spires and see the city spread out below you.  The golden Madonnina statue at the highest point has watched over Milan since 1774.