Matteo Banchi

Milan

Spotter since 2015

About me

About Me

Ciao! I’m Matteo, a Milanese explorer with a knack for uncovering the unexpected and an insatiable curiosity about the world around me. Born and raised in Milan, I’m easy-going yet always seeking that next unforgettable moment, whether it’s tucked away in a quiet piazza, caught in the buzz of an open-air market, or found on some wild adventure far from home.

I’m fascinated by people—their quirks, their stories, and the small connections that make life feel big. Whether it’s a stranger’s laugh, a perfect sunset, or a hidden corner of Milan that nobody seems to notice, I live for those moments that make you stop and think, “Now, this is what it’s all about.”

I’ve filled my life with travel, photography, and writing, and I’m not stopping anytime soon. I’ve leapt from planes over Egypt, hitched rides across Europe with strangers who became friends, and sailed under stars on the Atlantic Ocean. And yet, it’s often the quiet, hidden spots in Milan that surprise me most.

Why Milan?

Milan is a city of contrasts. One day, I was near the Duomo when I stumbled upon a street pianist surrounded by a crowd, all spellbound. His music drew in everyone—families, students, tourists, even businesspeople lost in their routines. For those few minutes, life was paused. When I asked him why he played there, he smiled and said, “Because the unexpected is always spectacular.”

That’s Milan. It’s a city full of secrets, where beneath the concrete, there’s always a touch of green, a spark of creativity, and a bit of magic waiting to be found. Come along—I’d love to show you the Milan that’s waiting to surprise you!

Where can you find me online?

Website: click here
Instagram: click here

My spots (20)

San Bernardino alle Ossa

Unusual church

"San Bernardino alle Ossa" in Milan always makes me feel a mix of scared and amazed. This church is almost entirely covered with skulls and bones...

002-building
Art & culture

by

Matteo

Banchi

Apr 4, 2025

Santa Maria Podone

Not just another old church

"Santa Maria Podone" is not just another old church in Milan. It's actually the city's oldest, and there's proof for that, and it was 'moved' once...

002-building
Art & culture

by

Matteo

Banchi

Apr 4, 2025

Colonne di San Lorenzo

Chillin' like a villain

"Colonne di San Lorenzo" in Milan occupies a special place in my heart, as well as for other Milanese and visitors. It's where the people here chill...

002-building
Art & culture
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Relaxing

by

Matteo

Banchi

Apr 4, 2025

Vico dei Lavandai

Secret history of Navigli

"Vico dei Lavandai" is small surviving corner in Milan that can take you back to an ancient and forgotten Milano. Join me and let's travel through time!

002-building
Art & culture

by

Matteo

Banchi

Apr 4, 2025

Aristide Calderoni Garden

Disappeared Milan

"Aristide Calderoni Garden" behind Milan's Cattolica University's main building is a part of an almost forgotten town. I've done my research for it...

002-building
Art & culture
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Relaxing

by

Matteo

Banchi

Apr 4, 2025

Gelati-Crepes "Le Colonne"

It's ice cream time!

"Gelati-Crepes 'Le Colonne'" is one of the most delicious ice cream shops in Milan. Its sweet smell hovers around you like in Hansel and Gretel...

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Snacks

by

Matteo

Banchi

Apr 4, 2025

Village Cafe

What to choose at Navigli

"Village Cafe" in Milan is a place of memories and fun for many locals as well as myself. Staying for the aperitivo is an impressive experience...

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Bars
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Snacks

by

Matteo

Banchi

Apr 4, 2025

Palazzo della Ragione's colonade

Talking stones

"Palazzo della Ragione's colonade" is one of the places in Milan I really love to show friends and visitors to see their reaction. Great acoustic effect...

002-building
Art & culture

by

Matteo

Banchi

Apr 4, 2025
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