Majestic Milan

Planning my next getaway, I found myself torn between cities and continents — until I spotted something that made the decision easy.

Oman Air was offering direct flights from Muscat to Milan, and suddenly, everything fell into place. A city of fashion, food, art, and history, all just a smooth flight away? I booked immediately.

Flying with Oman Air has always been a pleasure with its affordable fares. This time on boarding their Boeing B787-9 Dreamliner felt exceptional.

The flight departed Muscat at 14:55 and was perfectly timed to land me in Milan by evening. With four weekly departures (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday), the flexibility suited my travel style perfectly.

As soon as I stepped onboard, I was greeted with warmth and efficiency. I flew economy, but it never once felt like a compromise. The cabin was quiet and airy — ideal for relaxing after a day long hectic work schedule. The seats were spacious, the service was attentive, and the two hearty meals served during the flight were delicious. I chose a lamb dish for my main course, and it was tender, flavourful, and far beyond what you’d expect at 35,000 feet. When I couldn’t sleep, I browsed the inflight entertainment system — a surprisingly deep collection of the latest Arabic and international films, TV shows, music, and games. The hours quite literally flew by.

Touchdown in Milan
Arriving at Milan Malpensa just before 8pm, I still had time to enjoy a gentle evening stroll at the city centre.

Milan instantly captivates the soul but at its own pace. My first stop was the iconic Duomo di Milano, a cathedral so grand it defies words.

The Gothic spires transported me to the 13th century and I time travelled the entire history of 72 years if not more for a couple of  hours to capture its present grandeur. There was no hurry so my feet ambled through it’s streets and took me to stop and admire the Romanesque splendour - Duomo di Milano.

The piazza was alive with energy — tourists snapping photos, locals sipping espresso, and couples taking in the sunset. I joined them, cappuccino and a cornetto in hand, absorbing the beauty around me. Inside the Duomo, towering marble columns and dramatic stained-glass windows created a space that felt sacred and monumental all at once. In glass caskets around the nave, elaborately dressed saints seemed to rest in eternal reverence.

Just few steps from the cathedral is Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the oldest active shopping mall in Italy — and arguably the most beautiful. With its soaring iron-and-glass dome, mosaic floors, and ornate facades, it felt more like a palace than a mall.

I wandered past window displays of Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton — even if I was not buying brands, yet the experience of window shopping and the luxurious vibrancy that sprinkled itself on the crowd made me feel in tune with the surroundings.

I treated myself to an espresso at Café Biffi, a Milan institution since 1867, and imagined the generations who had sat in the same spot, watching the city evolve.
When in Milan: 

Eat gelato
You can’t be in Milan and not indulge in gelato — and I made it a ritual during my stay. One scoop turned into two (and sometimes three), and I quickly learned that “just going out for ice cream” in Italy is an event in itself. Each neighbourhood had its own charm, and I let my appetite guide me.

I also visited Il Cenacolo to see Da Vinci’s The Last Supper — a moment that felt almost spiritual. Later, I explored immersive art exhibitions like Van Gogh: The Experience, strolled through elegant piazzas, and dined at trattorias where the food tasted like it was made by someone’s grandmother.

What made the trip seamless wasn’t just the city’s beauty — it was how easily I got there.

Oman Air’s direct service meant no layovers, no stress, and a flying experience that left me refreshed and ready to explore. Whether you’re travelling for art, shopping, culture, or simply to soak up la dolce vita, Milan checks every box.

As I boarded my return flight at 21:50, content and a little sun-kissed, I was already planning my next visit. By 6:10 the next morning, I was back in Muscat — full of stories, flavours, and memories.

If you’re planning a summer escape: let Milan be your destination and Oman Air be your carrier. 

From sky to street, the experience is unforgettable.

Quick Travel Guide:
Milan with Oman Air
• Flight Schedule (Muscat–Milan):
Operated by Oman Air on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday & Friday
Departure (MCT): 14:55
Arrival (MXP): 19:50
Return (MXP): 21:50
Arrival (MCT): 06:10 (next day)

• Aircraft:
Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
30 Business Class seats
258 Economy Class seats
Excellent inflight meals & entertainment

Top Things to Do in Milan
Duomo di Milano: Marvel at one of the world’s largest Gothic cathedrals. Don’t miss the rooftop views!

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Luxury shopping, historic cafés, and stunning architecture.

Il Cenacolo: See Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper (book tickets in advance).

Piazza del Duomo: The heartbeat of Milan, perfect for people-watching and local eats.

Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience: A modern digital exhibit for art lovers.

Gelaterias: Treat yourself to Italy’s famous gelato — a daily ritual here!