day trips from milan to another country

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to do
• Restaurants
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The 10 best day trips from Milan

If you've made the journey to Milan, don't sleep on the rest of Italy right around the corner

For food, fashion and culture, everyone knows how great Milan is as a city break. There’s a reason people love it so much, and if you’ve been there, you’ll know what we mean. But if there’s one thing that’s underrated about Milan, it’s how close it is to a load of other great cities.

No, seriously. Spend a weekend here and you’re just an hour from a foodie capital, from one of the most famous lakes in the world, and a number of under-the-radar Italian spots you can show off about when you get home. We’ve compiled a list of the best day trips from Milan, all reachable by train in under two hours. Happy exploring!

RECOMMENDED: 🇮🇹 The best places to visit in Italy 📍 The best things to do in Milan 🍝 The best restaurants in Milan 🛍️ Where to go shopping in Milan 🏛️ Must-see attractions in Milan

Emma Harper is a writer based in Milan. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . 

An email you’ll actually love

Best day trips from Milan

1.  Bologna

A one-hour train from Milan.

Bologna is one of Italy’s most underrated cities, so there’s no better time to give it a go than when you’ve just about had enough of Milan. Though it gets overshadowed by the likes of Venice, Rome and Florence, Bologna is a cultural hotspot (and is sometimes called the foodie capital of the world!) . Come for the pasta, stay for the cobbled streets and medieval architecture. 

All’Osteria Bottega is one of the last authentic “osterie” standing in Bologna, and we highly recommend you visit and eat everything, starting with the pork-heavy selection of local cold cuts and the tortellini.

Head to Boavista if you want an atmosphere that’s both old-timey and lounge-like: the venue is known for its mojitos, its muddled, fruit-based cocktails and the notable selection of gin.

Walk off whatever you had for lunch by taking a stroll through Piazza Maggiore, where you will see the odd-shaped  Basilica of San Petronio  (the bottom is made of marble and the top of bricks).

Aemilia Hotel  boasts views of the rolling hills outside the city, and its roof garden is even home to a jacuzzi.

If you do just one thing...

Sure, you might feel part of a quintessentially medieval city in Bologna – but a visit to  MAMbo  will change that. At the contemporary-art museum, jump into an unprecedented array of Italian visual arts dating back to the end of World War II.

2.  Pavia

A 43-minute train from Milan to Pavia. 

Milan can be a little hectic, and we’ve got just the antidote if it’s all getting a bit much. Peaceful Pavia, in Italy’s Lombardy region, is a goldmine of beautiful architecture, medieval towers and lots and lots of wine. The kind of place where you can pull up by its winding river and sit for hours, or people-watch from a café in the centre with an espresso. 

Situated in a medieval tower,  La Torre degli Aquila  is a favourite spot among locals who enjoy the creative spin on traditional Italian dishes. 

Despite Italy’s reputation as a wine country, locals have gradually fallen in love with craft beers, as seen in Il Birratoio, which took over the space formerly occupied by a longstanding wine bar with a rotation of 10 taps. A selection of cold cuts,  panini  and  piadine  (a local variety of flatbreads) rounds out the beer menu.

Churches galore! Indulge in some Catholic regalia by visiting Romanesque churches such as San Michele Maggiore and San Teodoro, Renaissance masterpieces such as Santa Maria di Canepanova and gothic works such as San Francesco D’Assisi and Santa Maria del Carmine.

Revel in some old-time opulence by staying at the  Arnaboldi Palace : the octagonal shape houses an inner courtyard topped with a glass dome, and the hotel also has a ballroom.

Visit the Certosa di Pavia, a monastic complex originally intended for Carthusian monks. Its highly ornate style, replete with carvings and reliefs, combines Gothic and Renaissance influences. Don’t miss the cloisters, which are in full bloom in the warmer months.

3.  Camogli

A two-hour train from Milan to Camogli. 

The seaside town of Camogli is the perfect antidote to landlocked Milan. It offers trompe l'oeil palazzi, pine forests and azure water in spades. While nearby  Portofino  is a popular spot among luxury travellers, this equally pretty town retains a more working-class feel and doesn’t get quite as crowded, which is why in the summer it’s filled with well-heeled Milanese and Turinese who come on their annual holiday for some peace and quiet. (As they always say, the best travel finds come when you go where the locals go.)

De Laura serves the best food in the tiny beachside hamlet of San Fruttuoso. Be sure to try whichever pesto pasta dish is on offer – Liguria is Italy’s most famous basil-growing region and the home of pesto. 

Grab an outside table at Pub la Cage Aux Folles, located on the main coastal drag in Camogli, and sip an Aperol spritz as you watch the sun go down.

Hire a  private boat  or hop on the ferry from Camogli to Portofino. The area’s vertiginous hills and cliffs of the Ligurian coast are even more stunning when seen from the water. 

Housed in an impeccably restored 1907 palazzo, the  Villa Rosmarino  has a welcoming staff, an outdoor pool and great views above the historic centre of Camogli. 

If you do just one thing… 

Hike the trail from Camogli to the 10th-century  San Fruttuoso . The abbey is in a stunning location, abutting a small pebble beach and with a hillside forest as its backdrop. Only accessible by foot or by boat, San Fruttuoso feels like a hidden paradise.

4.  Varese

A one-hour train from Milan to Varese. 

Located 30 miles north of Milan, Varese is known as “Garden City” given the plethora of public parks and gardens that dot the cityscape. This, coupled with a robust representation of Art Nouveau works and 18th-century villas, gives the town a countryside-like feel. If sightseeing is not on the menu, you can indulge in shopping.  Baseblu , a multi-story boutique, has a vast selection of major and independent high-end fashion brands.

You have to ring a bell to access  La Perla , an added extravagance to the excellent seafood-forward menu and the room-facing, cloister-like inner courtyard that makes a meal here a relaxing and rewarding experience.

End your night in the charming outdoor area of  Ultimo , where, on top of a good selection of classic cocktails and beers on tap, the owners also offer their own eclectic creations, such as the very summery, celery-based “Celery Bastard,” and the tea-and-rum-based “Tea Bagging.”

After the obligatory stroll through the city centre, visit  Villa Panza Biumo , an 18th-century mansion housing an impressive collection of American contemporary art, including several installations by Dan Flavin.

Art Hotel  is a refurbished 18th-century villa located close to the city centre. Its sprawling garden is the ideal location for a post-sightseeing or pre-dinner aperitivo.

Climb Sacro Monte, originally a “holy road” dotted with chapels and sanctuaries that repentants had to climb during Lent to mirror Christ’s passion, but now a great excuse to enjoy a breathtaking view of the surroundings.

5.  Lake Garda

A one-hour train from Milan. 

Lake Garda is the biggest and cleanest of the local lakes, and its crystalline water will make you forget that you’re not on a secluded beach in Sardinia. Lake Garda is not just for beach bums, though. Surrounding the lake are charming towns such as Bardolino, with its two Romanesque churches, Sirmione, home to oh-so-awesome Roman thermal baths dedicated to poet Catullus and Gardone Riviera, with its over-the-top gardens and villas. 

Enjoy a menu that combines the Mediterranean and continental traditions at  Tancredi . Whether seated on the terrace overlooking the lake or in the indoor area with its floor-to-ceiling windows, the superb vista will delight you.

Italian poet, writer, and dandy Gabriele D’Annunzio (1863-1938) enjoyed lounging on the terrace of what is now Hotel Villa del Sogno, which he defined as “the most beautiful [in] the Garda area.” Its  American Bar , complete with a piano and an old-timey atmosphere, offers a wide selection of cocktails, including the house speciality Del Sogno.

Whether you’re in Desenzano, Salò, Sirmione or Gardone, all area towns, start your exploration by just taking a stroll on the  lungolago  (the lakeside promenade).

Lake Garda is a favourite family holiday destination for tourists from all over Europe, but if you want to enjoy a child-free stay,  AQVA Boutique Hotel  in Sirmione is a great option.

Visit the  Vittoriale , a hillside estate in Gardone Riviera, where poet D’Annunzio spent his twilight years. The over-the-top and kitschy décor might not be the quintessence of Italian elegance, but it’s indicative of the aesthetic of  fin-de-siècle viveurs .

6.  Lake Como

Its steep wooded shoreline and pristine sapphire water make Lake Como the most beautiful of the northern Italian lakes. The destination draws in visitors who are seduced by the ample opportunities for villa hopping, lavish lunches, and long boat rides – a jaunt in nature has arguably never been so luxurious. A day trip usually means either a day spent in the larger town of Como, located on the southern tip of the lake or a day that begins in smaller Varenna and involves hopping over to Bellagio on the ferry. 

Located in the backstreets of Como, Ristorante Sociale offers the best bang for your buck in this pricey region, with its home-cooked meals attracting a large crowd of locals. The restaurant’s interiors, not least its massive stone fireplace, make up for the fact that it’s not lakeside.

The outside terrace at Bar Il Molo in Varenna is the most sought-after spot come  aperitivo  hour, as it affords incredible views of the lake. 

Como has been Italy’s silk capital since the 16th century, and while the spun thread is now imported from China, the fabrics woven by Como’s artisans are still coveted. Stop by A Picci in Como, one of the last remaining silk shops in town, to get your own silk tie or scarf.

A lakeside hotel not far from Como,  Villa d’Este  was built as a summer palace in the 16th century and turned into a hotel in the late 19th century. It’s understandably pricey but a perfect spot for a romantic getaway. 

If you do just one thing…

Spend some time on the lake. This can be done on the cheap – riding one of the ferries between towns – or in a more upscale setting, like on one of the mahogany cigarette boats operated by Barindelli in Bellagio.

7.  Turin

A 45-minute train from Milan. 

Despite being the fourth largest city in Italy, Turin flies under the radar. The historic centre contains clues to Turin’s royal past (it was a seat of the House of Savoy and the first capital of the Kingdom of Italy): radiating from Palazzo Reale, one of two splendid House of Savoy palaces situated on Piazza Castello, are long porticoed arcades, allegedly instituted by the monarchy to keep the royals dry. It is also home to a world-class soccer team – Juventus – and boasts a distinguished culinary scene due to its location in Piedmont, a region famed for food and wine.  

The relatively simple interior of Ristorante Consorzio, reminiscent of an old country house, belies the wow factor of the menu, which pays homage to Piedmont producers. This is a place to be adventurous: try one of the raw meat dishes and order from the impeccable natural wine list.

The bar at Astoria is always a good spot for a drink with friends, but what makes this place special is the basement stage that attracts Turin’s hipsters with various live music and DJ sets.

Perhaps more exciting than its royal heritage is Turin’s past life as a hotbed of resistance during World War II. The wonderful Museo Diffuso Torino (Museum of the Resistance) charts the history of the defiant groups that opposed the occupying German forces and the Italian Fascist regime.

The excellent staff at Tomato Backpackers Hotel gives this spot, which offers both dorms and private rooms, an inclusive and relaxed feel.

Visit one of the city’s historic cafés, which were revolutionary and literary hotbeds in the 19th century. The refined Baratti & Milano, complete with crystal chandeliers and bow-tied bartenders, is a prime example of Turin’s unique café heritage.

8.  Cremona

In the Middle Ages, musical activities in the town revolved around the 12th-century Cremona Cathedral, which contributed to its rise as a musical centre in the 16th century – it was here that the modern instrument was invented and Antonio Stradivari made his world-famous violins, making Cremona a must-visit for music lovers. Just over an hour south of Milan by train, the town boasts one of the most beautiful piazzas in northern Italy – the Piazza del Comune – and is mostly off tourists’ radar. So even if you don’t have a passion for stringed instruments,  Cremona  is worth a visit for its quiet scene, all-around impressive architecture and vibrant food scene.

Cremona has several local specialities, such as  marubini  (stuffed pasta) and gnocchi vecchia Cremona (giant, sausage-stuffed gnocchi). The best place to get all things local is Osteria La Sosta.

Centrally located on the Piazza Della Pace, Hobos Cocktail Bar whips up a mean pisco sour, and its outdoor terrace is popular in the warmer months. 

Museo Civico “Ala Ponzone” is the town’s best art gallery with a fine collection of excellent paintings dating from the 15th to the 19th century. If your interest in stringed instruments lies beyond the violin, the collection of guitars and mandolins is sure to delight you. 

Cremona Hotel Impero  is close to the historic centre of Cremona and within easy walking distance of many of the town’s sites. The rooms are spacious and simple, but it can get noisy on weekend nights.

Visit the  Museo del Violino . Opened in 2013, this high-tech museum allows visitors to get up close and personal with some gorgeous Cremona-made violins. Be sure to ask about recital dates and concerts in the auditorium.

9.  Verona

A one-hour-15-minute train from Milan. 

The stomping ground of star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet, Verona is so much more than the setting of a Renaissance ill-fated romance. It boasts quaint architectural wonders such as the Castelvecchio fortress, the quintessentially Italianate garden Giardino Giusti (a favourite of Mozart and Goethe), the second-century-AD arena and Piazza delle Erbe, with its town hall (complete with a tower, Torre dei Lamberti), its baroque masterpiece Palazzo Maffei and its baroque fountain, whose statue called  Madonna Verona  dates to the fourth century AD. 

Pizza is not a typical Veronese dish, but chef Simone Padoan devised a gourmet pizza with top-quality ingredients and natural yeast that will delight your taste buds. His pizzeria  I Tigli , located on the outskirts of Verona, is both a local favourite and a destination eatery.

Verona is nestled in a wine region, so suggesting craft cocktails would be pointless. Instead, go to  Enoteca Segreta . As its name suggests (“secret wine bar”), it’s difficult to spot, but it offers a curated selection of both local and national wines in addition to some solid food options, too (remember: Italians never drink on an empty stomach).

Romance might be saccharine, but Juliet’s balcony does deserve a visit, especially because Romeo and Juliet’s tragic love story takes inspiration from a local, historically-documented family rivalry. Nearby is Piazza delle Erbe, the town's forum during the Roman Empire era.

Eager to pair your downtime with wine tasting?  Massimago Wine Suites  offers just that.  

Make sure you visit the  Arena di Verona  during the summertime opera season, where famous works by Verdi, Rossini and Puccini are performed  en plein  air.

10.  Lake Maggiore

A one-hour train will take you to Stresa, where you can catch a 20-minute ferry to the islands.

The main draw of  Lake Maggiore  is its three distinct islands:  Isola Bella , Isola Madre and Isola Superiore. The centrepiece of Isola Bella is the baroque Palazzo Borromeo: while the interiors are sumptuous, the 10-tiered garden is a true masterpiece of Baroque garden design that has miraculously remained intact. Isola Madre is also home to a fabulous palace and gardens, while Isola Superiore harbours a quaint fishing village. 

Isola Superiore is home to some excellent seafood restaurants, of which Restaurant Casabella is the best.

The swanky  Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees  in Stresa was the backdrop for part of Ernest Hemingway’s novel  A Farewell to Arms , making it a well-known name all over the world. Room prices are astronomical, but you can always get a drink on the terraces overlooking the lake.

Embrace all the relaxation you can find. Get comfortable with a good book (the aforementioned  A Farewell to Arms,  maybe) and let the majesty of the lakes do the rest.  

La Palma Hotel , a lakeside property, has an old-school façade but modern interiors. Amenities like the Sky Bar and the panoramic spa will have you feeling like you’re in the lap of luxury.

Go on a search for the Borromeo family’s flock of white peacocks that are roaming the grounds on Isola Bella. It isn't every day you can peep a white peacock, is it?

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide
• Android app

15 DAY TRIP DESTINATIONS FROM MILAN (Italy & Switzerland)

Milan is one of many beautiful Italian cities that tourists often include in their itineraries. This Northern Italian destination is a global city with thriving industries in fashion, art, finance, and tourism, just to name a few.

But if you have more time, you can also visit any of its surrounding cities and towns. Other beautiful destinations in Italy and neighboring Switzerland can be easily accessed from Milan. If you have limited time to explore the country, you can visit any of these on a day tour.

All of these are easily accessible by train or bus, so you can easily pull a DIY. If you are going to take the train, the cheaper option is the regional train; the fastest but more expensive is, of course, the high-speed train. But if you’re more interested in joining a guided tour, we also included a link to Klook, where you can book them.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

1. Lake Como

A cruise down Lake Como paints a picture of affluence and beauty. The picturesque view of the villas with striking architecture and the lush mountains draw tourists to the lake, which is also located in Lombardy. The scenery might be familiar, especially to Star Wars fans, as you might have seen it from Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones .

Another popular destination in the area is the town of Bellagio , a resort town with cobblestone streets and old structures. The cruise around Lake Como usually leads to Bellagio.

From Milan, it will take about 1.5 hours to reach Lake Como. For those who plan to pull a D-I-Y trip, the most convenient public transportation is the train. The usual jump-off points from Milan are Milano Centrale Station and Milano Cadorna Station. The fare range is €4.80 – €15, depending on the train type and class.

Nearest Train Station: Como S. Giovanni Station (if coming from Milano Centrale) and Como Nord Lago Station (if coming from Milano Cadorna)

If you prefer to join a guided tour, you can book via Klook.

2. Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a famous attraction in the Province of La Spezia. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the national park encompasses a cluster of five colorful towns — Monterosso Al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore — perched on rocky cliffs. All of the five towns’ western borders face the Ligurian Sea, blessing each town with breathtaking views of the coast.

Because of the proximity to the sea, Cinque Terre is known for its seafood offerings. From Milano Centrale, the travel time is 3-4 hours, depending on the type of train. The fare range is €18.85 – €44, depending on the train type and class.

Nearest Train Station: Monterosso Station

Genoa, the shining gem of the Italian Riviera. This port city is integral not only to the Italian but also the Mediterranean trade routes. Playing a major role in the region, it serves as the capital of Liguria. Walk around the heritage city of Genoa where you can see the San Lorenzo Cathedral, Piazza de Ferrari, and Teatro Carlo Felice. Then go on a cruise to the villages of Santa Margherita and Portofino!

From Milano Centrale, there are direct trains to Genoa. The travel time is 1.5-3 hours, depending on the type of train. The fare is €13.45 – €30, depending on the train type and class.

Nearest Train Station: Genova Piazza Principe Station

Bologna, Italy’s red city and culinary capital. With its flourishing industries like agriculture, finance, publishing, education, and transportation, it is one of the richest cities in Italy. It serves as the regional capital of Emilia-Romagna in Northern Italy.

The city is a delight for those who love marveling at historic sites, especially the medieval and Renaissance-era structures. Some of the noteworthy places are Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, and the University of Bologna, said to be the oldest university in Europe. It is also home to many ancient towers and churches.

After the cultural and historical tour, go on a gastronomic tour and sample tagliatelle alla Bolognese (ragù), tortellini, and mortadella di Bologna in between the historic spots! From Milano Centrale, there are direct routes to Bologna. Travel time is 1.5-3 hours and the fare is €16.80 – €48, depending on the train type and class.

Nearest Train Station: Bologna Centrale Station

More info here: Bologna Travel Guide!

Venice, the floating city! The city comprises over a hundred small islands in the Venetian Lagoon. Instead of roads, the city is navigable by its canals and hundreds of bridges. Trade and export are some of the economic drivers of Venice, which is the capital of the Veneto region in Northern Italy. But the main contributor to the city’s income is the tourism industry.

Explore the island’s narrow alleys and bridges on foot, then ride a gondola and see the city from its famous canals. Don’t miss St Mark’s Basilica and its square. From Milano Centrale, there are trains that travel directly to Venice, but these are usually high-speed trains. If you are taking the regional train, you will need to transfer to another train at Verona Porta Nuova Station. The whole duration of the trip is 3-4 hours and the fare is between €20.70 – €64, depending on the train type and class.

Nearest Train Station: Venezia Santa Lucia Station

6. Florence

Florence is one of the famous cities in Italy in terms of fashion, arts, and history. Its economy thrives mostly on tourism, which focuses on cultural exploration. The city is home to many museums and galleries. Architectural structures with significant cultural and historical backgrounds abound and attract millions of tourists yearly.

It’s not only the administrative capital of Tuscany but also the region’s historic capital. The most prominent landmark is the Duomo, while the masterpieces at the Accademia Gallery including Michelangelo’s David sculpture are equally noteworthy. From Milano Centrale, There are direct trains to Florence. The travel time is 2-5 hours and the fare is €25.50 – €77, depending on the train type and ticket class.

Nearest Train Station: Santa Maria Novella Station

More info here: Florence Travel Guide!

7. Lake Garda

Lake Garda , the largest lake in Italy, spans three provinces in Northern Italy — Verona, Brescia, and Trento. Verona on the southeast is known for its namesake capital city, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Verona City’s fame is amplified by William Shakespeare when he used it as the setting for his novels Romeo and Juliet and The Two Gentlemen of Verona .

Brescia on the southwest boasts the resort town of Sirmione and its hot baths, Grotte di Catullo, and Rocca Scaligera. Trento’s capital city is also a popular tourist destination with various resorts and architectural wonders like Trento Cathedral and Piazza Duomo.

From Milano Centrale, there are direct train routes to Lake Garda’s main gateways in Verona and Brescia. The travel time is 1-2 hours.

Nearest Train Station: Peschiera del Garda Station (Verona) and Desenzano del Garda Station (Brescia/Sirmione)

Klook is offering a day trip to Verona and Sirmione. If you are interested, you may book a guided tour here!

8. Interlaken, Switzerland

Interlaken is a town situated between two lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, in Bernese Oberland region of Central Switzerland. The area is known for its mountain and ski resorts, as well as hiking trails and the lakes. Interlaken is the jump-off point to the Swiss Alps’ outdoor and adventure spots.

From Milano Centrale, the journey to Interlaken by train involves one train transfer at Spiez. The travel time is 3-4 hours, depending on the type of train. From Spiez to Interlaken the travel time is about 15 minutes by train. The fare may reach as much as €68.

Nearest Train Station: Spiez Station

Marvel at the scenery when you cross Simplon Pass, one of the most stunning views in Switzerland. Book a guided tour here!

9. St. Moritz, Switzerland

St. Moritz is a popular ski resort town in the Engadine region in Southern Switzerland. A number of major sporting events have taken place here; Winter Olympics was held here twice already. It also features an Olympic-size outdoor ice rink and the Cresta Run. Because of its high-altitude location, most of the activities here are snow-based.

From Milano Centrale, getting to St. Moritz requires a train transfer at Tirano. The travel time is 3-4 hours, depending on the type of train.

Nearest Train Station: Tirano Station (Transfer) and St. Moritz Station

Get on Bernina Express and enjoy the scenic Bernina Pass on the way to St. Moritz. To board the Bernina Express, you have to cross the plaza from Tirano Station to get to the other station. Book a guided tour here!

10. Bergamo

Bergamo is the second most popular city in Lombardy, next to Milan. The city is a combination of old and new, with quite an apparent distinction — the lower portion, called the Citta Bassa , is more on the modern side where commerce happens and where most of the population resides, while the upper portion, called Citta Alta , is where the heritage and cultural sites are concentrated.

From Citta Bassa, you can get to Citta Alta via a funicular, a cable railroad. The historical walled upper city is where tourists flock to when they visit Bergamo. One of the notable landmarks is the Duomo di Bergamo.

From Milano Centrale or Milano Lambrate, there are direct train routes to Bergamo. The travel time is about an hour. The fare is €5.50.

Nearest Train Station: Bergamo Station

Located in the Emilia-Romagna region, along the major road and railway between Milan and Bologna, Parma is easily accessed from either city and a possible day trip destination. It’s known contribution to the culinary world are the (drumroll) Parmesan cheese and Parma ham (prosciutto di Parma)!

It’s also where you’ll find Parma University, one of the oldest universities in Europe, gaining the title “university city”. Other remarkable structures are the Parma Cathedral, Palazzo della Pilotta, and the National Museum of Antiquities among others.

From Milano Centrale, there are direct train routes to Parma. The travel time is 1-2.5 hours and the fare is €11.10 – €27.50, depending on the type of train.

Nearest Train Station: Parma Station

Also situated in the Emilia-Romagna region is the city of Modena . The city has a lot to boast — the home of balsamic vinegar, the birthplace of some of the world’s luxury sports car brands (Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati), and renowned opera singer Luciano Pavarotti to name a few. It also houses cultural landmarks that are listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site: Piazza Grande, Torre della Ghirlandina, and Modena Cathedral.

From Milano Centrale, there are direct routes to Modena by train. The travel time is 1.5-3 hours, depending on the type of train and route (direct or with transfers). The fare range is €15.55 – €35.

Nearest Train Station: Modena Station

Turin is the capital of the Piedmont region in Northern Italy. Four rivers flow through the city; one of them is Po River where most part of the city lies on its western bank. As the city used to be the capital of the Kingdom of Sardinia, the Baroque-style architecture flourished during this rule.

Today, the traces of that bygone era could still be seen around some streets. Other notable structures are located within the vicinity of Piazza Castello and Piazza San Carlo. The city also has numerous churches, museums, parks, villas, palaces, and gardens.

From Milano Centrale, there are frequent train services that run directly to Turin. The travel time is 1-2 hours. The fare is €12.45 – €36, depending on the train type and ticket class.

Nearest Train Station: Torino Porta Nuova Station

14. Parco Nazionale Gran Paradiso

Italy’s premier national park. Situated between the two regions in Northern Italy — Piedmont and Aosta Valley, Gran Paradiso National Park beckons those who love the wild and the outdoors. The park lies in the Gaian Alps where many hiking trails snake through the rich flora and different landscapes of the area.

One of the highlights is the mountain the park was named after, the Gran Paradiso Mountain, which rises up over 4000 meters. There are many jump-off points, depending on which part you want to explore, but the most accessible is the one located in Cogne Valley.

From Milano Centrale, getting to Aosta (Cogne jump-off point) requires two train transfers at Turin and then Ivrea. The total travel time by train from Milan to Aosta, including the transfers, is 3-4 hours. From Aosta, take the bus (SVAP) to Cogne or your preferred jump-off point. There are also direct bus routes (SAVDA) from Milan to Aosta. If you are taking the bus, make sure to book in advance as the route is popular among travelers.

Nearest Train Station: Turin Porta Nuova Station (Transfer 1) and Ivrea Train Station (Transfer 2)

15. Lugano, Switzerland

Lugano has a peculiar mix of Swiss-Italian culture, thanks to its location, the Ticino region, which shares the border with Italy. It’s not surprising that the majority of the population is fluent in Italian.

The city features natural and cultural tourist spots that make it one of the most visited in Switzerland. Museums and historic sites, like the Piazza della Riforma, dot the city’s map and the surrounding mountains appeal to the adventure-seekers. Lake Lugano is one of the highlights in the region.

From Milano Centrale, there are trains that travel directly to Lugano in 1.5-2 hours and the fare may reach as much as €24, depending on the type of train.

Nearest Train Station: Lugano Station

Edited by Asta Alvarez

2020 • 8 • 28

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Is this post helpful to you?

Related Posts:

• Milan: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Itinerary by Unique Tours Factory
• MILAN TRAVEL GUIDE with Sample Itinerary & Budget
• MILAN: 25 Best Things to Do & Places to Visit
• WHERE TO STAY IN MILAN: 6 Best Areas Around the City Center
• MILAN AIRPORT TO CITY CENTER: From Malpensa & Linate Airports by Bus & by Train
• VENICE TRAVEL GUIDE: Itinerary, Budget, Things to Do
• 15 DAY TRIP DESTINATIONS from BOLOGNA, ITALY
• BOLOGNA: 20 Best Things to Do & Places to Visit

• Recent Posts

• 13 Places to Visit in CENTRAL JAPAN in SPRING (including Cherry Blossoms Spots) - 14 February 2022
• List of Travel Requirements for the Best Beach Destinations! (Boracay, Cebu, Palawan & More) - 3 December 2021
• How to Get VAXCERTPH Online (Digital VACCINE CERTIFICATE Download Steps) - 9 September 2021

Featured On

We heard you!

Your comment is now queued for moderation! We’ll try to get back to you soonest. While waiting, follow us on these channels.

Subscribe on Youtube! Follow us on Instagram!

13 BEST Day Trips from Milan, Italy

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Whether the Italian lakes or the Bernina Express, the seaside charm of Portofino or the romance of Verona, these are the best day trips from Milan!

Welcome to Milan, one of the most beautiful cities in all of Italy.

This city is famous for all sorts of reasons. Its impressive architecture – it’s home to both the Duomo Cathedral, the 5th largest in the world, as well as the mediaeval Sforza Castle.

There’s also the art – Leonardo Da Vinci spent 18 years of his life in Milan and his legacy is recognised throughout the city with museums, statues, and a dedicated art trail.

But to me, a main highlight is the location. There are some seriously cool day trips from Milan just moments away. It’s a really good base for exploring more of northern I t aly and Switzerland too.

There’s the famous Italian lakes – Como, Garda and Maggiore are all easily reachable – to coastal towns like Rapello and Portofino. 

Not to mention that you can easily make it to parts of Switzerland (catching picturesque views of the Swiss alps on the train along the way). There are so many Milan day trips it’s hard to choose which one to do first!

That’s what this blog is for though, to help you decide which one is for you. I’ve also listed some of my favourite tours too so you don’t need to worry about a thing.

Right, that’s enough chit chat. Let’s get to it!

Best Day Trips from Milan, Italy

Italy’s biggest lake, and one of the most famous in the country, Lake Garda is an awesome place to spend your day.

It’s a pretty simple journey: a two hour journey by car, or just under an hour by train (the most convenient station is Peschiera del Garda). 

At Lake Garda you can enjoy the views of the pristine lake and the mountains that surround it, though in my humble opinion the best way to experience the lake is via boat tour. If you’ve got kids, take them to Gardaland , one of Italy’s best theme parks.

Otherwise, spend some time strolling around the beautiful nearby town of Sirmione. There’s tons to see here, from the Medieval Scaliger Castle and thermal baths to the Roman ruins.

Bernina Express

If you want the best views of the mountains, the Bernina Express is the experience for you.

This is one of my favourite day trips from Milan by train, and it’s not even entirely in Italy. You’ll start out in the Swiss alpine town of St Moritz before boarding one of Europe’s most picturesque and panoramic train rides. Finally, you’ll finish in the Italian city of Tirano.

One of the simplest ways to do this trip is to take a guided tour. It’ll save you lots of hassle; otherwise you’ll need to drive 2 hours to Tirano to kick things off. I’d recommend this one as it’ll give you free time to explore both locations.

Want to spend a day in another part of Switzerland? Head to Lugano .

This is one of the prettiest Swiss cities. Sitting on the northern shore of Lake Lugano , there’s tons to see and do here. First up, there’s obviously the lake – a great spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, or boat rides. 

There’s also Monte San Salvatore, a mountain with incredible views at its peak. Be sure to head to the top for a look at the views, you can either hike or take the funicular. 

Otherwise, stroll around Old Town or wander around the Parco Ciani gardens for the best lake views.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is one of the most beautiful places in Italy so it’s well worth a day trip from Milan.

This is a series of 5 colourful, coastal villages, standing on cliffs overlooking the sea. Cinque Terre is about 3 hours from Milan by car, and there’s no direct train, so I’d recommend taking a guided tour . 

On this particular trip you’ll get a guided tour of Monterosso al Mare, the largest village, as well as a boat trip to La Spezia. That easily makes it one of the best Milan tours in my book.

This is one of the most famous lake in Italy, and the Milan to Lake Como day trip is as popular as they come.

On the shores of the lake sit vibrant, colourful villages and sweeping luxury villas, and surrounding it all are scenic views of the mountain.

You can explore the city of Como and its gothic architecture, have fun on the promenade, or take a boat cruise along the lake. 

Alternatively explore some of the surrounding villages – I’d recommend Bellagio and Varenna the most. A guided tour like this one will take you to both.

If lakes aren’t your thing, head to the Italian coast instead. Genoa (sometimes known as Genova), is just the place.

One of the highlights is the ancient city centre, Centro Storico. In this neighbourhood you’ll find historic architecture plus landmarks like the bronze fountain on the Piazza de Ferrari, plus churches and Gothic cathedrals that have been standing for centuries. 

Don’t forget to check out the palaces or the iconic Porto Antico where you can spot ships along the water. 

Genoa can be reached by train (1.5 hours), by car (2 hours) but there are lots of Milan tours that’ll take you here too. On this one you’ll also get to visit Portofino!

Rapallo and Portofino

You don’t have to visit Genoa to visit Portofino though. Instead, combine with a trip to Rapello for a proper day on the Italian coast.

Rapallo is a town on the Italian riviera, reachable in just two hours by direct train from Milan. As well as enjoying views of the water, check out the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montallegro on the hilltop (take the cable car up for the best riviera views), as well as Rapallo castle on the shore.

From Rapallo, take a boat to Portofino and soak up the riviera. 

Bologna 

Bologna is everything you’d want from a classic Italian city: pretty, historic, and home to some pretty incredible food. I mean, it’s literally the birthplace of Bolognese sauce. 

It’s also home to the oldest university in the world, dating back to the 11th century. 

Anyway, I’d highly recommend a day trip to Bologna. Explore Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno (the latter of which is home to the incredible Fountain of Neptune). Head up one of the many towers to take in breathtaking city views and whatever you do, don’t skip lunch.

To get to Bologna, board a direct train from Milan. The journey will take just under an hour and a half. Alternatively, it’ll take two hours in the car. 

If you’re planning a trip to the city, then you can check out some of the best free things to do in Bologna here which should save you some £££.

Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore is another one of Northern Italy’s famous lakes. But that’s not the main draw of this location as a day trip from Milan.

Actually, the Borromean Islands are usually the main enticer. This is a group of islands right in the middle of the lake, famous for their biodiversity, though the most popular for visits are Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori. 

There’s tons to see on these islands, from grand palaces to botanical gardens. If you’ve got extra time, explore the town of Stresa, or take the scenic train ride on the Centovalli Railway – this will take you through the Hundred Valleys where you’ll see waterfalls and picturesque villages.

To visit Lake Maggiore, take the train to Stresa – it takes just under an hour.

Bergamo 

Bergamo is one of the quickest and easiest trips from Milan; it’s just 40 minutes on the train, or an hour by car.

Surprisingly, despite being an incredible city in its own right, Bergamo isn’t as popular with tourists as others. It’s a bit of a hidden gem actually.

Bergamo is divided into two sections: Lower Town and Upper Town. Upper Town is my favourite part – it’s ancient and the funicular up there almost acts as a time machine. Step through the iconic Porta San Giacomo gate and you’ll be greeted with historic Venetian walls, Palazzo della Ragione, and the bell tower. 

Explore Piazza Vecchia, the Accademia Carrara, and much more (I genuinely could go on and on).

Another super easy Milan day trip is Turin. Again, it’s just 40 minutes on the train, and there’s tons to see and do here. 

A city set with the picturesque alps on the horizon, Turin is home to striking neo-classical and Art Nouveau architecture. 

In terms of what to see, there’s the Royal Residences, including the Palazzo Reale, and museums like the Turin City Museum of Ancient Art and the Egyptian Museum . There’s also the landmark of Mole Antonelliana, which is home to the National Museum of Cinema, plus an observation deck over the city.

Nestled at the foothills of the alps, you’ll find the city of Varese. One of the main appeals of this day trip is the Sacro Monte di Varese , a collection of 14 ornately decorated chapels which are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Other things to see around Varese include Villa Panza, an 18th century villa, as well as museums, ancient churches, and of course Lake Varese.

Varese can be reached in 50 minutes by train or an hour by car. 

Verona 

Finally we have Verona , probably best known as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. You can even visit Juliet’s house – Casa di Giulietta, thought to be the house that inspired Shakespeare – complete with its famous balcony.

There’s tons to see in this city even if you’re not a fan of 16th century tragedies: Arena di Verona (a preserved Roman Amphitheatre), the Ponte Pietra bridge, the Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore. There’s also the Piazza della Erbe, Verona’s busy and bustling centre, where you can find shops and restaurants housed in Mediaeval buildings.  

Verona is just over an hour away by car or two hours by train. Alternatively, take a guided tour combined with a trip to Lake Garda. 

Those are my favourite day trips from Milan, but what are yours? Tell me all about them in the comments!

If you’re heading to the big capital city, then check out my guide to the best food tours in Rome . This is perfect for eating your way through the city!

Like this blog post? Then Pin it for the future!

About the Author

Georgie Cunningham is a freelance content writer and strategist based in Bristol. When she’s not writing (or thinking about) content, she’s writing fiction, travelling, or chasing after her crazy cocker spaniel, Cosmo.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

12 Can’t-Miss Day Trips From Milan (& How To Reach Them)

Milan is the perfect Italian city to make your home base, due to its wide array of transportation options and proximity to some of the most beautiful spots in the northern corners of the country. Plus, planning day trips is one of the best ways to make the most out of your trip to Italy itinerary. Make good use of those extra couple days in your trip plans to explore beyond the city and venture into famous and hidden gem spots alike in northern Italy with these day trips from Milan .

Milan is the financial capital of Italy, situated in the wealthiest region of Lombardy. The region features all types of geography – from shimmering lakes to the fields of the Po River Valley to the beginning of the Italian Alps.

There are so many beautiful places in Lombardy, but Milan is also easily connected to other regions like Veneto or Liguria. If you don’t mind a longer drive or train ride, you can still make places in these regions doable day trips. Reference my complete guide to using trains in Italy so you’re prepared before embarking on your day trip.

Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through that link, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full disclosure !

The Best Day Trips from Milan

In this travel guide, you’ll find not only a description of each place, but also a breakdown of your best options for transportation from Milan according to each destination.

Some are more easily reached by car , while others are more cost-effective trips using trains. The furthest ones (at the bottom of the list) are more easily accomplished by booking a tour!

Whatever your mode of transportation, they’re all covered in this guide. I hope you are inspired by these ideas for day trips from Milan and are able to incorporate some into your northern Italy itinerary!

The second-largest city in the Lombardy region is nothing like Milan – which is why it’s an incredible day trip.

While Milan’s historical structures weave themselves between the modern office buildings and designer shops, Bergamo showcases its place in history more boldly. Entering Città Alta, or the Upper Town, transports you into the past. This hub of historical piazzas, palazzos, and castles are all confined within the 16th century Venetian Walls, once built to protect the city from intruders.

The contrast between past and present is so stark, from the dramatic Medieval hilltop of the old town, with the bustling financial district of Città Bassa below.

I’m lucky to call this beautiful city home, so I compiled the ultimate list of things to do in and around Bergamo if you’re thinking about doing this easy day trip.

How to Reach Bergamo from Milan

Bergamo is one of the easiest day trips from Milan to make, which is why it tops the list.

You can take a regional train from Milan to Bergamo for around 10 euros roundtrip, with the journey lasting 45 minutes to an hour, based on what kind of train you take. I recommend the route from Milano Centrale to Bergamo Stazione , as these stations are the main stations in their respective cities, therefore centrally located so you can waste no time exploring!

Flixbus also connects Milan and Bergamo for as little as 5 euros roundtrip. Plus, you can always travel by car using the A22 Highway. Just remember you’ll have to pay tolls and parking fees if you choose that option.

Everyone has Lake Como on their bucket list – and it’s easy to understand why. Between the luxury villas, the brightly colored towns, the mountains framing each curve of the lake, every detail of this part of northern Italy is magical.

It’s exactly what you picture Italy to feel like, and while it can be a luxurious destination, there are ways to do Lake Como on a budget . You can do everything from renting a boat if you’re a water baby or stick to exploring the small, yet popular, towns nestled on the shoreline.

The towns of Varenna and Bellagio have to be high on your list – both boast stunning views and aren’t too far from each other, so you can fit them into one day.

How to Reach Lake Como from Milan

Lake Como is north of Milan. The journey is about 50 minutes to the southernmost part of the lake and one of the main cities, Lecco.

If the train is your transportation of choice, I recommend the Milan to Lecco route as the easiest starting point for traveling around the lake. In my opinion, Lecco is also a prettier city that’s less trafficked by tourists than Como.

From Lecco, you can take a ferry to reach towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio. Tickets will be from 5-8 euros one way, depending on which season you are traveling in.

If you navigate Lake Como by car, keep in mind that parking can be limited in small towns . Plus, you will be restricted to just one side of the lake – unless you pay to take your car on the ferry transport.

I would suggest also starting your journey in Lecco with a car, as there will be more parking options available. Then you can take the ferry around the lake from there. However, overall, this day trip is probably more suitable to a combination of train and ferry for budget-friendly and easy transport.

And if all that transportation information gives you a headache, you can leave it up to the professionals and book a day trip tour from Milan to Lake Como!

Parco di Monza

If you want to get outdoors but aren’t much of a sportsman, then a relaxing day at Parco di Monza , or Monza Park, could be a perfect day trip or afternoon break from the bustling city of Milan.

Parco di Monza is twice the size of central park – it’s HUGE!

With beautiful little lakes, wide tree-lined promenades, and the grand Villa Reale, Parco di Monza has a lot to offer. It’s particularly ideal for families to let their kids explore or couples looking to take romantic strolls throughout all of the greenery.

I recommend this day trip for those looking for something light and carefree to do – the park if beautiful, but it’s not a bucket list destination to visit. It’s also ideal if you’re spending an elongated time in Milan, for example, studying abroad or working.

How to Reach Monza from Milan

Monza is actually the closest out of all the day trips from Milan. The city is the next major city outside of Milan. In the next years to come, it will conveniently be connected to Milan’s metro, but for now the easiest way to reach Monza from Milan is by car or train.

Why not go to a different country for a day if you have the chance? One of the coolest things about being in northern Italy is realizing how close you are to the countries of France, Switzerland, and Austria. Switzerland is especially close to Milan – only one hour away.

The southernmost part of Switzerland is the Ticino canton, or region. It’s actually Italian-speaking, so even if it says you’re in Switzerland, you may still feel that Italian energy from the scenery and people around you!

Lugano is one of the main cities of this region, on the banks of Lake Lugano (which also stretches into the Italian border.)

You will fall in love with the glitz and glamour of Lugano, from its beautiful lakeside promenade to the high-end stores and casinos. Make sure to make the short (but steep) walk to the Cathedral of Saint Lawrence for a beautiful view over the city.

Also consider day tripping to the Swiss Alps using the Bernina Express. This iconic red panorama train has routes that start in Italy that go through the Swiss Alps and then return within the day! Find out everything you need to know in my guide to riding the Bernina Express train .

Also check out Locarno, Switzerland , another beautiful city in the Ticino region and easily reachable from Milan!

How to Reach Lugano from Milan

To reach Lugano from Milan, you will obviously have to cross the border. Check ahead of time that you have the right documentation to enter Switzerland .

Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area, so they are in agreement with other European countries to not have border controls. There still is border control, but they likely won’t stop you when crossing over because of this agreement.

Things get much more expensive when traveling in Switzerland, so it’s more cost-effective to take a train. You can travel from Milano Centrale Station to Lugano starting at 15 euros.

You would definitely spend more on gas money and parking fees!

But driving in Switzer land has its ups too, as you can personalize your itinerary more.

If you are really strapped for time, you can actually visit Lugano and multiple towns on Lake Como in one day with a tour! It’s a more expensive option, but it’s a stress-free way to travel that guarantees you’ll see a lot in one day.

Val Brembana/The Italian Alps

One of the wonders of the northern regions of Italy is being set at the foot of the Alps.

The truth is, there are many areas to explore the Italian Alps that are reachable from Milan. Even Lake Como is technically part of them!

But if you really want the feeling of exploring the mountains, then my favorite spot is Val Brembana .

This valley is north of Bergamo and features towns like San Pellegrino Terme , famous for the San Pellegrino water, and Branzi , famous for its local cheese.

But there are also tiny hidden gem mountain towns like Cornello dei Tasso and the Laghi Gemelli, two lakes that you can hike to high up in the peaks. You’ll even see tons of waterfalls!

How to Reach Val Brembana from Milan

Val Brembana is about a two-hour journey from Milan by car, which would be how I recommend you get around.

The valley is obviously mountainous and as you venture further into the Alps, the towns are small and hard to reach.

Therefore, traveling by train is not a viable option!

It may be one of the more difficult day trips from Milan to make, but the scenery is well worth it.

Venture into a new region on one of your day trips from Milan, Veneto. One of the most beautiful cities in this region of romance is Verona.

Coined Italy’s City of Love, Verona is the home of opera and the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet. There are so many amazing things to do in Verona – from visiting the Casa di Giulietta and seeing Juliet’s balcony to exploring the vibrant squares of Piazza Bra and Piazza delle Erbe .

My personal favorite is making the climb up to Castel San Pietro on the other side of the Adige River and taking in the panoramic view over the rose-colored city. It is a must-do!

How to Reach Verona from Milan

Verona is a two-hour drive from Milan. This drive is all highway, so it’s a nice and easy day trip to navigate. Park at Parcheggio Porta Palio, which is free – unlike most parking in Italy’s cities!

The two major cities are also connected by train and bus if you don’t have a car at your disposal.

A unique way to visit Verona and the next destination I’m about to mention all in one day is to book a tour! While booking tours can be more expensive than DIY-ing your day trips from Milan, they can be way more time-effective. You won’t have to worry about navigating the roads yourself or dealing with multiple public transportation changes.

This tour takes you to Verona and Lake Garda in one day from Milan, maximizing your itinerary.

Pro Tip: Verona is a walkable city, but still wear comfy shoes. You’ll be walking on lots of uneven cobblestones in the historic center!

Because Lake Como boasts the Insta-fame for its gorgeous villas and the celebrities who flock there on vacation, Lake Garda happens to be underrated. It’s the largest lake in Italy and while there’s no shortage of visitors or tourists in the high season, the extra space still makes it comfortable to explore and enjoy.

The lake is so large that it is in three regions of Italy – Lombardy, Veneto, and Trentino Alto-Adige. The closest towns to Milan are those in the Lombardy region – Limone sul Garda or Salò, for example.

I’ve already covered the best towns to visit on Lake Garda , so reference that post if this spot is on your bucket list. However, the ones I would recommend as must-visit spots are Sirmione and Limone sul Garda .

How to Reach Lake Garda from Milan

Due to the mountainous terrain, there are only a few spots that you can reach Lake Garda by train . On the southern end of the lake, you can arrive at the stations Desenzano del Garda Sirmione or Peschiera del Garda .

On the northern end is Rovereto , but arriving here is still quite a distance from the lake itself. As a day trip from Milan, you can maximize your time better by exploring the southern end of the lake. In either case, you will probably still need to take public buses or the ferry ( timetables here ) to reach nearby towns.

If you have a car, you can be much more flexible with your itinerary. You can drive up the western coast of the lake to visit towns like Limone sul Garda, Riva del Garda, or Gardone, where there is Mussolini’s villa (for the history buffs!)

There are quite a few lakes on this list, but that’s because this is Italy’s lake region! They are all uniquely beautiful and if you’re one to go off-the-beaten-path, then you’ll adore Lake Iseo.

See my full travel guide on Lake Iseo for planning your visit!

Being that it’s a smaller lake than the others, you can maximize your time and explore a lot in one day. What makes Lake Iseo extra special is that it has a massive island in the middle of the lake – the largest island in a lake in all of Europe, called Monte Isola .

The best way to explore Lake Iseo is by boat , so if you can rent one for a day, go for it! It’s a magical moment to drift right up to the tiny communities on Monte Isola and take in the size of this natural mountain formed in the middle of the lake. Plus, there is the Isola di Loreto nearby, an island with a castle.

Towns like Sarnico and Lovere are wonderful starting points at each end of the lake, south and north respectively.

If you can fit it in, I also recommend ending your day with an aperitivo at a unique bar that’s on a dock, Darsena21. The hanging lanterns glow against the sunset as you sit beside the water enjoying a Spritz – it can’t get more Italian than that!

How to Reach Lake Iseo from Milan

Lake Iseo is most easily accessible by car . The drive takes up to two hours, depending on which town you want to stop in.

Sarnico, the southernmost point, is the closest to Milan, but not connected by ferry. If you plan to ferry around the lake rather than drive, then consider Predore as a starting point.

Without a car, you can take a combination of train and bus to reach Lake Iseo. The journey could take up to 3 hours, so I would suggest skipping a Lake Iseo day trip if you don’t have a car this time and fit it in on the next trip!

Crespi d’Adda

Forty-five minutes from Milan, in the province of Bergamo, is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and hidden gem of northern Italy. Add the town of Crespi d’Adda , a municipality of Capriate San Gervasio, to your list of day trips from Milan.

Crespi d’Adda is an Industrial Age town built in the early 1900s by Cristoforo Benigno Crespi, a cotton manufacturer. The town was designed to host the workers at his factory, providing them housing, community buildings and more.

Today you can visit the old buildings of the Industrial Age-style designed by architect Gaetano Moretti and the surrounding areas of the Adda River valley, like the Taccani Hydroelectric Plant and Castello Visconteo in Trezzo sull’Adda.

How to Reach Crespi d’Adda from Milan

The only way to reach Crespi d’Adda from Milan is by car. The nearest train stop is in the town of Treviglio, but you still have a ways to go before reaching Crespi d’Adda.

Crespi d’Adda is conveniently close to the A4 highway, so you just take that road east and exit at Capriate.

As the list of day trips from Milan nears the end, these last few destinations are a bit further from the city but so worth seeing they must be on the list!

Bologna is the food capital of Italy. All the pasta, cured meat, and delicious cheeses come from the fertile region. of Emilia-Romagna.

Bologna also boasts so much beautiful architecture and interesting history, appealing to anyone who visits. The Basilica di San Petronio is a gorgeous cathedral in the main square, complementing many other beautiful churches like the Basilico di Santo Stefano .

You must also admire the famous “ Le Due Torri ” in the city center and stroll to the University of Bologna , the oldest university in Europe.

Consider taking a walking tour to make sure you visit all the can’t-miss sites. Plus, the city is so full of history that having a guide explain the many historical structures to you allows you to fully experience and understand the city!

How to Reach Bologna From Milan

Bologna to Milan is nearly a three hour drive. While six hours driving in a day is pretty tough, it can still be feasible.

However, I suggest taking the train from Milan to Bologna. The tickets are cheap and you can take a high-speed train and arrive in Bologna in just over an hour!

I researched tours from Milan to Bologna, but I didn’t find any that I felt confident in suggesting. In this case, the best transportation option for this day trip is clear – go by train!

Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre, or Five Towns, are world-famous as the most picturesque colorful cliffside villages of the Italian Riviera.

Riomaggiore, Vernazza, Manarola, Corniglia , and Monterosso al Mare , all have something special to offer. You can swim at the beach in Monterosso, enjoy the easy-to-reach viewing point at Manarola, or take in the sunset on the rocks in front of the Riomaggiore harbor.

Read my Cinque Terre One-Day Itinerary to know exactly how to make the most of your time!

Being that Cinque Terre is one of the top tourist attractions in Italy, you may want to consider places less popular but still on the sea. Visit lesser-known towns in Liguria for a day trip – Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, and my personal suggestion, Porto v enere , a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the Cinque Terre, and one of the most romantic places in Italy .

How to Reach Cinque Terre from Milan

One of the easiest ways to make Cinque Terre a feasible day trip from Milan is to book a tour. With transportation and guides sorted out, you will avoid all the stress of driving or navigating the multiple stops of public transportation to reach Cinque Terre. Therefore, spending more time enjoying it!

That being said, you can also DIY your trip by driving the three hour journey. However, you have to keep in mind that most of the towns are car-free zones. You will have to either hike or take the local train between them.

Journeying by train means arriving at Monterosso station and then choosing to hike or take the local train from there. The first leg of your journey can cost upwards of 60 euros per person and you’ll have to buy a ticket of 16 euros per person for the local train.

So, the costs can add up on the train journey or car journey when considering the cost of gas (double what it is in the USA, for example. This is why I believe a tour is the way to go if you only have one day to visit the Cinque Terre from Milan.

It may be one of the further day trips from Milan, but everyone knows the Cinque Terre are worth it.

To wrap up this epic list of day trips from Milan is one of the most iconic spots in all of Italy, Venice.

Venice is a must-do on any Italy trip. From St. Mark’s Basilica to the Rialto Bridge to the islands of Burano and Murano , there is so much to see and do in Venice.

The best thing about Venice is that outside the touristy neighborhood of San Marco, you feel like you have the whole city to yourself. You can find many of the narrow streets empty between the maze of canals.

And if you want to go off-the-beaten-path, there are unique things to do in Venice too, from rooftop views to an incredible piece of architecture, the Scala Contarini del Bovolo .

It’s also one of my favorite cities in Italy to take photos, as the landscape feels so magical in every picture. Check out my Instagram guide to Venice if you love taking beautiful travel photos too!

How to Reach Venice from Milan

The last one is the longest one – the trip to Venice from Milan is just over three hours. Being major cities, they are easily connected by both bus and train. The fastest train takes about 2 and a half hours, so it saves a little bit of travel time.

Although it’s a long drive, it’s a very easy one. You will virtually just use the A4 Highway. The only thing to keep in mind is that the actual center of Venice has no cars. You will have to park either at the edge of the historic center in one of the parking garages or on the mainland and take a ferry, bus, or train to the center.

I found this thorough and helpful article about parking in Venice if you plan to travel by car.

However, to get the most bang for your buck and explore as much as possible with only one day, I suggest going with a tour. For 129 euros, you can get a guided tour through the city, a boat ride, and stress-free transportation to Venice.

You can also check out my guide to Venice on a budget so you save as much as possible.

Final Thoughts and Tips for Taking Day Trips from Milan

Taking day trips is one of the best ways to make the most of your itinerary. It eliminates the stress of changing accommodation frequently and increases the potential of taking advantage of long-stay discounts!

Here are some extra tips to consider when embarking on your day trips from Milan:

Always factor in extra little costs – or at least expect them!

Often when planning a trip, especially on a budget, we underestimate how much we actually will spend. Consider the money you may spend on gas, tolls, parking fees when traveling by car. If traveling by public transportation, think about snacks or magazines you might buy for the journey. Little costs add up!

Always validates your ticket on public transportation!

Italy’s trains, buses, trams, cable cars – basically any kind of public transportation have a little machine where you insert your ticket and it’s stamped with the date and time. If you don’t do this and an officer comes around to check, you’ll be charged with a fine!

Leave as early as possible when taking a day trip with a long travel time!

Especially if you are taking public transportation, utilize the opportunity to catch up on sleep during the journey and leave early in the morning so you have tons of time to explore further destinations!

Consider buying a one-way ticket if you are unsure of what time you want to leave!

Again referring to public transportation, whatever time you choose to depart back home is the only time that ticket is valid. So, if you decide at the moment that you want to leave earlier or later, you have to buy a whole new ticket! I made this tourist mistake and it cost me an extra 50 euros to switch tickets.

Use Via Michelin to Estimate Fuel and Toll Costs

I just found out about this tool while planning my last road trip and I can’t believe I didn’t know about it before!

Via Michelin helps you not only plan your route but will also tell you based on the make and model of your car how much fuel you can expect to use and how much it will cost. This is a perfect way to create an accurate budget if you decide to use your own car or rental car to reach these destinations!

Those are my extra tips to take into consideration when planning your day trips from Milan!

Which one of these day trips from Milan are on your bucket list?

Italy Trip Planning Resources

• Accommodation : For Italy, I mainly use Booking.com to search and book places to stay.
• Booking flights : I like to search for flights through Skyscanner , but I also book direct depending on the airline.
• Activities & experiences : For things to do that require a ticket, and for more unique trip activities, I use Musement .
• Road trip : For renting a car, I get the best prices by comparing companies with AutoEurope . I then use ViaMichelin to estimate road trip costs and Autostrade.it to find gas stations/have live updates on traffic.
• Transportation : Traveling by public transportation is a great way to see Italy. I use Trenitalia or Trainline to book tickets for trains and Flixbus for long-haul bus trips.
• Accessories : I always travel with this portable charger to stay connected and with a universal adapter to accommodate Italy’s plug types.
• Need help planning an itinerary? Fill out my form for a custom itinerary request !

Save these ideas on Pinterest!

I hope your Italy itinerary is coming together and that these ideas for day trips from Milan are just what you needed to decide what’s on the top of your bucket list!

Michela is a travel writer and photographer living in northern Italy. She is passionate about helping people make the most of their travels by sharing advice gained from her personal experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations and time-saving quick itineraries. Browse her top articles or have her help you plan your itinerary to your dream destination!

Find me on: Web | Instagram

You may also enjoy:

18 can’t-miss things to do in bratislava: ultimate one-day itinerary, your ultimate tuscany road trip, planned: best itinerary ideas & practical tips, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Website URL

Sign me up for the newsletter & access to resources from The Travel Library!

JOIN MY FACEBOOK GROUP

Check this out

• The Travel Library
• Privacy Policy

BUY ME A COFFEE

I love creating free resources for your travels and personally responding to your questions over chat and email.

Planning a trip to Italy?

Looking for Something?

The 8 best day trips from Milan to experience the Lombardy life

Feb 25, 2021 • 8 min read

Attractions around Milan range from medieval townships to stunning vantage points overlooking Lake Como © Marco Bottigelli / Getty Images

Milan may be Italy's capital of fashion and glamor, but it's also the gateway to a whole region of rich culture, fine food and even finer scenery. Within a few hours of the city, you can splash or boat on gorgeous lakes, scramble over rugged mountain ranges, wander the laneways of medieval towns and gape in awe at Unesco-listed hill villages, ancient relics and sacred sites.

Tear yourself away from Milan's chic events, fine dining and cosmopolitan nightlife, and the rewards are many and varied. Whether it's a stroll through the medieval alleys of Bergamo or a boat trip on Lake Como, a day trips from Milan will broaden your experience of this wonderful corner of Italy, and it's a beautiful region to explore in spring, before the summer crowds arrive. Here are eight of the very best day trips from Milan.

Why go?: To experience la bella vita

Studded with lavish villas and backed by the dramatic scenery of the Italian Alps, languid Lake Como was a playground for the rich and famous long before George Clooney showed up on the scene. Perhaps the best way to experience the lake is by renting a boat (no boat license is required) to cruise from one charming town to the next.

Highlights include touristy but beautiful Bellagio , with its sweep of terracotta-tiled rooftops, and the pretty towns of Varenna, Menaggio and  Como . Take time to admire imposing villas such as Tremezzo's Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianiello in Lenno – you might recognize the latter from movies including Star Wars: Episode II Attack of the Clones and Casino Royale .

How to get to Lake Como:  Trains leave regularly from the Cadorna, Porta Garibaldi and Centrale train stations in Milan, stopping at Como Nord Lago. The trip takes up to 90 minutes (depending on whether the train is direct or not). Alternatively, you can drive here in about an hour from central Milan via the E62 and A9 highways.

Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands

Why go?: For an island escape

While less celebrated than Lake Como, Lake Maggiore is no less beautiful, and it's home to the three treasured Borromean Islands. Named for the aristocratic family who acquired these lovely specks of land in the 16th and 17th centuries, the islands each have their own distinctive charm, and it's worth taking time to explore all three.

Isola Bella is famous for its luxurious baroque palace and romantic Italian-style gardens, while Isola Madre has 20 acres of landscaped botanical gardens complete with exotic plants and birds, part of the elegant Palazzo Madre. Finally, Superiore (also known as Isola dei Pescatori, thanks to its origins as a humble fishing village) was largely left to its own devices. It has 25 or so residents today, who continue to follow a simple, traditional way of life. 

How to get to Lake Maggiore: Take a train from the Porta Garibaldi or Centrale stations in Milan and get off at Stresa (worth a visit in its own right), where you can arrange a boat trip to the islands. The trip to Stresa takes about 90 minutes whether you travel by train or by car. The prettiest road routes hug the lake's west bank, climbing up through the Val Cannobina and then down to Locarno.

Why go?: For the historic architecture

With the rugged mountain ranges of the Alps in the distance, Bergamo is blessed with stunning views, and that’s not all. Divided into upper and lower districts, the lower  Città Bassa shows off Bergamo's modern face, while the upper Città Alta sprawls across the hillside and has a beguiling fairytale-like charm.

Nestled inside 3 miles (5km) of 16th-century Unesco-listed Venetian walls is a timeless world of winding medieval alleys and elegant Renaissance buildings. Wander the streets or walk along the walls and soak up the history. Devote some time to exploring the Piazza Vecchia , lined with elegant palazzi, and the baroque Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore.

How to get to Bergamo: Trains for Bergamo leave every hour from Milan's Porta Garibaldi and Centrale stations, and take around an hour. If you're driving from Milan, take the A4 motorway and follow the Bergamo exit signs. Traffic is restricted in the Città Alta, but you can find limited parking outside the city walls.

Why go?: For the lake views

Covering 370 sq km (143 sq miles), Lake Garda (Lago di Garda) is the largest of the Italian lakes, straddling the border between three Italian regions. It's visited by nearly one in ten visitors to Italy, for its views, fine food, flanking vineyards and cultural cachet. Like an Italian lunch, exploring this region is something to be savored slowly. Many drive, visiting the lake as a stop en route to Verona , but it pays to narrow down your expectations and devote a day to exploring parts of the lakeshore in depth.

The western Lombardy-facing shore of Lake Garda is the most beautiful, lined with historic towns, stately villas, mountain-backed roads and frothing flower-filled gardens. Oriented toward the Veneto , the eastern shore has a different character, with silvery olive groves lining the shoreline. On a day trip from Milan, maximize the experience by homing in on a town such as Sirmione  or  Desenzano del Garda  for a focused taste of the larger region.

How to get to Lake Garda:  Desenzano del Garda is on the Milan–Venice train line with a fast train service that takes about an hour (and it's another half hour to Verona). The drive from Milan to Lake Garda takes approximately two hours.

Why go?: For the romantic mood

Verona  is best known for its Shakespeare associations, attracting a multinational gaggle of tourists to its pretty piazzas and knot of lanes. Most come in search of Romeo and Juliet associations, which the city is very happy to provide, but it's the city backstreets rather than the touristy sights that leave the longest-lasting impression of this attractive Veneto city.

Verona's heart is dominated by a mammoth, remarkably well-preserved amphitheater from the 1st century CE, plus countless churches, a couple of architecturally fascinating bridges over the Adige River, regional wine and food from the Veneto hinterland and some impressive art galleries . It's just a short hop from Lake Garda, so the two can be combined in a long (but rushed) day trip if you're not planning to linger at the sights. 

How to get to Verona: It's just over an hour on the fast train from Milan, but the trip takes closer to two hours by car. The trip between Verona and Lake Garda takes about 25 minutes.

Why go?: For art without the crowds

Varese is a prosperous provincial capital with a pretty old town and some grand villas that are worthy day trip material. On a hill overlooking the town sits the glorious 18th-century  Villa Panza  with its impressive collection of contemporary American art. Donated in 1996 to the Fondo Ambiente Italiano not-for-profit organization, the mansion holds a collection that Count Giuseppe Panza began amassing in the 1950s.

Elegant rooms decorated with Renaissance furniture provide a grand setting for modern works, many of which explore the concepts of light and color. Dan Flavin’s dazzling neon lights are just some of the works transforming this interesting space. Once you’ve had your fill, take a scenic amble through the Italian-style gardens, complete with views and scattered outdoor installations.

How to get to Varese: From Milan's Porta Garibaldi and Cadorna stations, you can take a train that stops at Varese. Continue on Bus A from Piazzale Trieste (just outside the station) to its final stop at Piazza Litta, close by Villa Panza. The whole journey takes over an hour. It's faster to drive here via the A8 motorway from Milan; just follow the signs to the parking station at Piazza Repubblica.

Why go?: For compact grandeur

Pavia combines the youthful buzz of a university town with the historic grandeur of a medieval township, and its small size makes it easy to explore. A stop at the University of Pavia , one of the oldest universities in Europe, is pretty much mandatory – founded in 1361, the campus has hosted such illustrious students as Ugo Foscolo, Alessandro Volta and some say even Christopher Columbus.

The Romanesque Basilica di San Michele , the 14th-century castle and the main cathedral with its massive dome are also worth a peek. Just outside the city, Certosa di Pavia is one of the oldest monasteries in Italy; built in 1396, it’s an impressive sight, blending Renaissance and Gothic architecture. Some say Pavia is worth a trip just to eat  La Torria degli Aquila – the sensational cooking in this medieval tower is highly creative while still rooted in tradition.

How to get to Pavia: Trains for Pavia depart from Milan's Centrale and Rogoredo stations and take around 30 minutes. The drive is longer, at around an hour.

Why go?: For the thrill of the race

For motoring enthusiasts, the  Autodromo Nazionale Monza racetrack needs no introduction. Constructed in 1922, it’s best known for hosting the Formula One Italian Grand Prix almost since the race’s inception. With its long straights and fast corners, it has a reputation as the "Temple of Speed," and watching a race here is an experience not to be missed.

Non-professional drivers with deep pockets can realize the dream of cruising in a Ferrari, Lamborghini, Gran Turismo or Formula 3 car on this hallowed stretch of tarmac. Those less inclined towards adrenaline and g-forces can experience the track in a minivan or by bike.

How to get to Monza: Trains from Milan's Centrale and Porta Garibaldi stations are the best way to travel to Monza, and the trip takes around 15 minutes. From Monza station, jump on Bus Z221 towards Carate/Mariano and disembark at Vedano al Lambro, which is walking distance from the racetrack's Porta Vedano entrance.

You might also like: The top 22 free things to do in Milan Milan's must-see museums: a design for life The best things to do in Milan, from divine churches to cathedrals of fashion

This article was first published Jul 11, 2019 and updated Feb 25, 2021.

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

May 23, 2024 • 17 min read

Travel Europe like a pro, maximizing your points and miles to stretch your dollar the furthest. Here's the expert guide.

Apr 8, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 7, 2024 • 11 min read

Mar 26, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 15, 2024 • 10 min read

Feb 28, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 27, 2024 • 15 min read

Nov 30, 2023 • 13 min read

Nov 19, 2023 • 11 min read

Nov 16, 2023 • 7 min read

12 Gorgeous Day Trips from Milan by Train

Milan is the perfect place to stay during your vacation in Italy. Why? Because it’s so well connected not only to Lake Como and Lake Garda but also to great Italian cities such as Venice, Bologna, Florence and many others. In this article you’ll find the most useful practical information on amazing day trips from Milan by train – doable also by car! 

Hometown to Panettone , risotto alla Milanese and Cotoletta , Milan not only offers delicious traditional dishes but it is also a beautiful city definitely worth a visit.

The capital of Lombardy is the core of railways in northern Italy, therefore it’s very easy to reach pretty much any destination in Italy : thanks to the combination of Frecciarossa bullet trains, Italo and regional trains it is possible for visitors to travel from Milan to Venice or even Florence in just one day.

Hope this article will help you decide which places to visit on day trips from Milan by train ! 🙂

Day trips from Milan by train

PLEASE NOTE that the following places are easily reachable by train . However, you may also consider renting a car   to reach these destinations! This way you won’t be tied to train timetables and you’ll see that driving on Italian highways is not as difficult as it may look.

• Lake Garda and Verona

Trains in Italy: Frecciarossa VS. Regional Trains

Before reading, you must know a few things on the difference between regional trains and Frecciarossa.

All the locations listed below are worthwhile day trips and perfectly feasible in one day. In regards to Frecciarossa ticket prices , this is the fastest and more comfortable option as they’re bullet trains that reach your destination passing by only a few stops. What you’ll see in the tables below is the cheapest fare that you can get when booking in advance – say at least a month before. 

However, smaller towns such as Bergamo, Mantua and Brescia are not connected by Frecciarossa trains. In this case, you must take regional trains : fares are fixed but seats cannot be reserved , therefore, even though you can easily purchase your ticket the day before traveling, you’re not guaranteed a seat.

1. Lake Como

“This lake exceeds anything I ever beheld in beauty [..] it has the appearance of a mighty river winding among the mountains and the forests”

These are Percy Bysshe Shelley ’s words describing beautiful Lake Como in 1818. 

Even nowadays the lakeside towns are certainly the most famous attractions: Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio are only a few of the cozy small towns rich in historical villas and their well-kept gardens, churches and little shops selling local foods and handicraft, jewellery and clothing. Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio are very well-connected one another: check the ferry timetable to organize your trip in advance!

The villas around Lake Como play an important role in attracting tourists from any part of the globe. If you’re wondering why, the reason is that their beauty is astonishing : built between the 16th and 19th century, the villas are considered architectural masterpieces with gorgeous gardens displaying an unrivalled palette of colors in Springtime. 

Some examples are Villa Balbianello, Villa Melzi d’Eril, Villa Fogazzaro, Villa Monastero, Villa D’Este, Villa Pliniana. Particularly appreciated is Villa Carlotta , in Tremezzo, Como. Here you can get to see works of art by Canova and Hayez , together with the beautiful garden and magnificent architectural structure.

How to Get to Lake Como from Milan by Train

2. lake garda and verona.

Lake Garda is one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy and, therefore, is certainly a top-rated day trip from Milan . 

Bordering with Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino , Lake Garda offers beautiful panoramas and a wide range of typical products: from Lake Garda DOC wines such as Lugana DOC to DOP products like Grana Padano, Provolone Valpadana, extra virgin olive oil and, last but not least, juicy lemons used for jams and lemon-scented liqueurs and olive oil.

Take the train from Milano Centrale in the morning and head for Verona , the romantic city chosen by Shakespeare to set one of his most famous works, Romeo and Juliet . Nowadays, it’s considered a good luck sign to touch the statue of Juliet’s breasts situated below Juliet’s balcony.

In the historical center of Verona you’ll see one of Italy’s best-preserved arenas dating back to Roman times, where major concerts and opera festivals take place. Also the gates around the city are Roman works as well as underground excavations.

When on your way back, stop in Desenzano del Garda, a nice town on the lake ideal for an Italian style aperitivo with Spritz .

How to Get to Verona from Milan by Train

Venice, the capital of the Veneto region, is a must-see for first time visitors to Italy and, therefore, one of the best day trips from Milan . Canals, gondolas , beautiful buildings and magical atmosphere are all elements contributing to the beauty of this city.

Among the most famous attractions in Venice are Rialto bridge, St. Mark’s basilica and square, the Doge’s Palace, Scuola Grande di San Rocco, Ca’ d’Oro and the islands of Murano and Burano, which became famous thanks to the great glass workers. 

However, there are also hidden gems in Venice that not everyone knows! Have you ever heard of Scala del Bovolo in Palazzo Contarini, or Acqua Alta Bookstore , a peculiar Venetian-style bookshop? Also, typical Venetian food is something you want to try. To enjoy a traditional Venetian aperitivo, have a Spritz or a glass of Prosecco with cicchetti or sarde in saor , the typical Venetian-style sardines.

How to Get to Venice from Milan by Train

Padua is a very fascinating city: what makes it so appealing is the presence of cozy bars and restaurants (called “ bacari ”) where you can eat great typical food and wines – think of Prosecco and Amarone della Valpolicella!

All over the city you can see the evidence of how great Renaissance artists such as Giotto, Donatello , Piero della Francesca and many others changed the Italian history of art. An example is certainly the Scrovegni Chapel frescoes , now part of Padova Urbs Picta , the14th-century fresco cycles that have been included in the Unesco World Heritage List.

Padua is famous all over the world for the University of Padua – one of the oldest in Italy – and the Basilica of Saint Anthony , where the relics of Saint Anthony are still visible. Nonetheless there are other top rated attractions to visit in Padua awaiting for you!

How to Get to Padua from Milan by Train

Without stepping out of the Veneto region, it is worth visiting the city of Vicenza , an easy day trip from Milan by train .

In Vicenza you’ll be amazed by the Palladian Villas: Villa Valmarana and Villa La Rotonda are the most well-known and easily reachable on foot . It takes about 30 mins from the city center but the walk is nice as you are along a bike path surrounded by the green .

Andrea Palladio , the famous Italian Renaissance architect, also designed the gorgeous UNESCO heritage Teatro Olimpico (“Olympic Theatre”) in the 16th century. You’ll particularly like the trompe-l’œil onstage scenery designed by Vincenzo Scamozzi as it gives the appearance of long streets receding to a distant horizon. This theatre is one of the three Renaissance theatres remaining in existence in Italy!

As you’re in the land of cod, you cannot leave without trying the Baccalà alla Vicentina , Vicenza-style stockfish: a signature dish of Vicenza.

>> More info on Vicenza and its typical food in my article Veneto, Typical Food and Wine Itinerary .

How to Get to Vicenza from Milan by Train

Bologna is the capital of Emilia-Romagna and is famous mainly for two things: the University and the food. 

First off, you must know that the University of Bologna is the oldest university in Europe : a committee of experts chaired by the famous Italian poet Giosuè Carducci, established its foundation in 1088. 

In Piazza Maggiore you’ll see the famous Neptune’s fountain and a few historical buildings dating back to the 13th and 16th century. The Torre degli Asinelli is a landmark of Bologna you cannot miss: go up the 498 steps and enjoy a wonderful view of the city from above!

Speaking of food , what are Bologna’s signature dishes ? There are many traditional foods in Bologna, but the most well-known are certainly tagliatelle with Ragù alla bolognese and tortellini . 

Have an aperitivo in the area called “ Il Quadrilatero ”, the ancient market of Bologna. Here you can get to taste delicious prosciutto with tigelle , a typical flatbread similar to piadina but smaller, and a glass of Pignoletto Classico DOC .

How to Get to Bologna from Milan by Train

7. florence.

Florence is situated in northern Tuscany and it’s hands down one of the most worthwhile day trips from Milan . Even though it’s hard to see everything one day, if you’re short on time you can select the best things to see in Florence and enjoy them all the same.

The main landmarks are certainly the magnificent Renaissance style Santa Maria Novella Church , Santa Maria del Fiore with its gorgeous bell tower by Giotto and dome by Brunelleschi , Florence Cathedral, Ponte Vecchio , whose original structure dates back to the Romans, Piazza della Signoria , where you can see the Fountain of Neptune.

Explore the Uffizi gallery , hosting important works of art by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, Giotto, Piero della Francesca and many others.

When visiting Palazzo Pitti , which served as the main residence of the Medici family, take a peek into Boboli gardens , a great example of Italian gardens .

Of course, don’t forget to try the Florentine steak (Bistecca alla Fiorentina) and the wonderful Zuppa Toscana .

How to Get to Florence from Milan by Train

Only 1 hour away from Milan is Turin, the capital of Piedmont .

Broad avenues, huge piazzas and arcades characterize this city, together with the main landmarks: the Royal Palace , The Mole , where you can visit the Museo del Cinema , and one of the most important museums in Italy, the Egyptian Museum .

Turin is famous for its cafés: the magical atmosphere will bring you back to the city’s Golden Age while sipping a bicerin , a typical type of coffee invented in Turin.

Also, you cannot miss to try bagna cauda , a convivial dish meant to be shared with family and friends, accompanied by a glass of Freisa d’Asti DOC, and other signature dishes of Piedmont, such as Agnolotti del Plin , fritto misto and vitello tonnato. If you try these foods in a restaurant, ask the staff the best Piedmontese wines to pair them with!

How to Get to Turin from Milan by Train

Pavia , situated about 40 km away from Milan along the Via Francigena, is one of the most attractive art cities in the Pianura Padana. 

In one day you can visit the main landmarks : the medieval Visconti Castle , the Basilica of San Pietro in Ciel d’Oro , the Pinacoteca Malaspina , Pavia Cathedral , to which Leonardo da Vinci contributed, the Ponte Coperto , an arch bridge over the Ticino river connecting the historical center to the rest of the city.

Pavia’s most famous attraction is the Certosa di Pavia , a monastery built by the first Duke of Milan, Gian Galeazzo Visconti , at the end of the 14th century. What’s most interesting about the complex,  composed of the church,  the cloisters and  the museum, is that it displays different artistic styles , from the late Gothic to the Renaissance.

You must try Pavia’s rice , as it is the typical product of the province, traditional dishes with eel, snail, goose and frog, together with a glass of the local Oltrepò Pavese DOC . Pavia is also the hometown of Torta Paradiso , a dessert famous all over Italy.

How to Get to Pavia from Milan by Train

One thing you need to know about the Certosa di Pavia is that it’s not in the city center .

In fact, to get to the monastery , you must take the train from Milano Rogoredo (see table below) as trains from Milano Centrale  don’t stop at the Certosa but go directly to Pavia city center.

My advice is to visit the Certosa in the morning and reach the city center in the afternoon. On your way back to Milan, you can take the regional train from Pavia to Milano Centrale .

10. Bergamo

Bergamo, located 50 km east of Milan , attracts visitors for many reasons.

One of the best things to see in Bergamo is Città Alta (or Bergamo Alta), the upper town, is a hidden gem worth your time. Built in the Middle Ages , Upper Town is surrounded by the Venetian walls , now UNESCO heritage , which once served as protection against the invasors.

Also, Bergamo cuisine is something you want to try. A great example of traditional food in Bergamo is polenta e osei (meaning polenta and birds), not to mention Casoncelli and Scarpinocc. Old recipes have been handed down generation after generation, and now we can enjoy simple but good food and wine .

In fact, here you can discover the Valcalepio Wine Route and its homonymous wine, but also the smallest DOCG wine in Italy : Moscato di Scanzo DOCG . 

Have a glass of Moscato with local cheeses and other typical foods in the best traditional restaurants in Bergamo .

How to Get to Bergamo from Milan by Train

Mantua is surely worth visiting given its historical and artistic importance . It was once the cradle of the Italian Renaissance of which we can still see evidence in buildings like Ducale Palace, Basilica di Sant’Andrea and Palazzo Te, not to mention great Italian Renaissance artists such as Andrea Mantegna , who painted the Chamber of the Bride situated in St. George’s Castle. In fact, in 2016 Mantua was named Capital of Culture .

Also, the traditional food in Mantua is amazing: Pumpkin Tortelli (tortelli di zucca), meat Agnoli in broth and Capunsei (sort of gnocchi made of bread and Parmesan) are the typical stuffed pasta you must try in the city.

As a second course, popular are Bigoli con sarde (thick pasta similar to spaghetti with pilchards) and Pike in sauce (pike served with a sauce made of capers, pickled bell peppers, parsil, garlic and onion). Don’t miss Mantua’s signature dessert: Sbrisolona can be found anywhere in the city so give it a try, you won’t regret it 😉

How to Get to Mantua from Milan by Train

12. brescia.

Brescia has become a famous tourist destination thanks to Christo’s artwork “ The Floating Piers ” visible – and walkable – on lake Iseo in June 2016. 

In Brescia city center, you cannot miss to visit Santa Giulia Museum Complex , offering a journey through Brescia’s history and art from prehistoric times up to the present day. 

Don’t forget to have a taste of the typical cuisine of Brescia : manzo all’olio (beef in oil), Brescia-style Casoncelli , polenta taragna and Bossolà, a traditional Christmas dessert . Of course, all these delicious dishes deserve the right glass of wine : opt for a Franciacorta DOCG , the first DOCG sparkling wine   made with a classic method.

If you have the chance, take a ferry and reach Monte Isola , from where you can admire the astonishing view of the mountains reflected on the water. If you’re lucky enough, you’ll see the island covered with colorful flowers during the “ Santa Croce Festival ”. Taking place every 5 years, this celebration is well-known all over the Sebino   area.

How to Get to Brescia from Milan by Train

Hope my article on day trips from Milan by train will be helpful to plan your visit to Italy! 🙂

Did you Like the Post? Follow Me on Social Media and Stay Tuned for More Content!

Enjoy this blog? Please spread the word :)

Table of Contents

GUIDEMYVOYAGE

Explore World in your budget

• Jan 22, 2023
• 20 min read

Best Day Trips from Milan (A Detailed Guide on How to Explore)

Updated: Mar 26

Milan, the city of Fashion and the financial capital of Italy, is one of the most important cities in Italy and Europe. More than 10 million visitors visit Milan every single year either for Business or leisure purposes.

Apart from the Historic city center, Milan is mostly a commercial city, but it is surrounded by beautiful countryside with typical Italian villages, lake districts, and medieval towns that are easily accessible from Milan.

If you want a weekend getaway from a business trip or have a spare day in your leisure trip, a day trip to fascinating Italian villages is always a rewarding idea.

In this article, we have mentioned the top 16 Italian places you can visit in a day from Milan. The places are ranked from 1 to 16 based on travel time from Milan and level of comfort to avoid over-exertion.

So, let’s start exploring the best day trips from Milan, Italy!

1. Day trip from Milan to Bellagio and Varenna (Villages on Lake Como)

Being very close to Milan, Lake Como is our top pick in the list of the best day trips from Milan.

Lake Como is one of the most beautiful and luxurious Italian destinations. Since Roman times, lake Como has been a popular destination for wealthy people around the world. Lake Como is the second largest Italian lake after Lake Garda with an area covering 146 Square Kilometers. fully exploring the lake and its surrounding villages would need approximately 1 week time. However, the most beautiful villages on Lake Como are Bellagio and Varenna and can be comfortably visited as a day trip from Milan. Spending a day in these two villages would be an unforgettable experience and will leave you with wonderful memories for a lifetime.

Bellagio is the most popular and picturesque destination of Lake Como. The village surrounded by a beautiful lake is a combination of colourful houses and shops, picturesque alleyways, luxurious villas, and mesmerizing views on every corner. Strolling in the village would give you the feel of real Italian living. Bellagio is a perfect destination to take a day off from a hectic week or to spend romantic quality time with your loved ones.

Varenna is another gem of Lake Como and the neighbouring village of Bellagio. The beautiful fisherman village is full of beautiful views with colourful tiny restaurants, shops, villas, and alleyways. The romantic walkway from the ferry terminal to the village is a special highlight of the village. The gardens of the famous villa Monastero offer the best views of the lake, and it is one of the popular tourist attractions in Lake Como.

Guided day trips from Milan to Bellagio and Varenna:-

If you are a first-time visitor, then we recommend taking a Guided day tour to Bellagio and Varenna from Milan. The mode of transport will be an air-conditioned bus from Milan and a lake cruise by private boat. The Guided trips are not just visits to these two villages, but you will be offered lifetime knowledge of the history of Lake Como from Roman times till the modern era. So, why not?

Book your Guided day trip to Bellagio and Varenna

Varenna is directly connected by Train from Milan. The trains left every hour from Milan’s central station. We recommend using the following Itinerary for a comfortable day trip to Bellagio and Varenna from Milan: -

Leave from Milan, at 8.20 AM by Train.

Arrive Varenna at 9.26 AM.

Catch the Ferry boat from Varenna to Bellagio at 10 AM approximately. The ferry timetable usually changes every year. Usually, there is a ferry every half hour or 40 Mins from Varenna to Bellagio and vice-versa.

Reach Bellagio at 10.20 AM.

Stroll the villages, explore its alleyways, take a good photograph, and have your lunch.

Catch the Ferry from Bellagio to Varenna at around 2.30 PM

Reach Varenna at 3 PM

Visit Villa Monastero first and then explore Varenna Village.

Catch the return train from Varenna to Milan at your comfort and convenience.

Book your train tickets to Varenna

Ferry tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter near the ferry terminal at Varenna which is just a 5 to 10-minute walk from the train station.

Also, check out how to spend 2 days in Lake Como .

2. Day trip from Milan to Stresa (Lake Maggiore and Borromean Islands)

Stresa is another picturesque lake Village on the coasts of Lake Maggiore which is the neighboring lake of Lake Como. The one-day trip to Stresa and Borromean Islands is equally relaxing and worthy as compared to Lake Como.

Lake Maggiore is 3rd largest lake in Italy and part of the Lake is also extended in Switzerland. Stresa was a simple fishermen's village in the old times. From the 19th century due to developed infrastructures, it was later transformed into a resort destination, special thanks to its unique picturesque location.

Stresa is a good starting point to explore the Borromean Islands of Lake Maggiore. The name Borromean comes from the wealthy Borromean family who have owned the islands since the 16th century. Borromean islands are a group of 3 Islands namely Isola Bella (which means beautiful Island), Isola Madre (which means Island of Mother), and Isola dei Pescatori (which means Fishermen’s Island). The Borromean family had transformed the islands of Isola Bella and Isola Madre into luxurious residences. Isola dei Pescatori was left for their original residents who were mainly traditional Fishermen.

All these 3 islands have their uniqueness and are equally beautiful. The islands of Isola Bella and Isola Madre were famous for their Villas and world-class luxurious gardens and the Island of Pescatori is famous for maintaining its vintage touch and simplicity.

Guided day trips from Milan to Stresa: -

If you are visiting for the first time, then it is worth booking a guided trip from Milan to Stresa and Borromean Islands. The guided tour consists of a Transfer from Milan by a private coach and the tour of Borromean islands by ferry boats.

Book your guided day trip to Stresa and Borromean Islands

Stresa is connected by Direct trains from Milan. Trains usually take 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 Mins to reach Stresa from Milan. The islands can be explored from Stresa by Hop-on hop-off boat tour.

Book Hop-on hop-off boat tickets for Borromean Islands.

Train tickets can be booked from Trainline or Trenitalia's official site.

Book your train tickets to Stresa

Check out more details about a day trip to Lake Maggiore from Milan.

3. Day trip from Milan to Sirmione and Desenzano

Sirmione is another scenic village situated on the Peninsula midst of Lake Garda and easily reachable from Milan. Its unique location offers mesmerizing views of the lake which makes it a must-visit place in Italy. Sirmione is also popular as a romantic destination in northern Italy.

Sirmione is a very old village from the Roman Era. Due to its location, it became an important headquarters for the Military during the Middle Ages. The main highlight of the village is its Scaligero Castle from Medieval times which is built at the entrance of the Village. The houses and shops in the village still maintain the medieval touch which gives the feeling of being in another time.

Desenzano is another picturesque village located on Lake Garda and directly connected by Trains from Milan. The attractive fishermen's Village is also popular as a bathing resort. Desenzano is a starting point for buses departing to Sirmione.

Guided day trips from Milan to Sirmione:-

Guided day trips from Milan to Sirmione are more convenient and worth booking. Different travel agencies arrange day trips from Milan to Sirmione which include scenic boat trips around the Sirmione village and transport from Milan to Sirmione Via Desenzano.

Book your guided day trip to Sirmione and Desenzano.

Desenzano is directly connected by Train from Milan. Trains run every 30 minutes from the central station of Milan. The train journey from Milan to Desenzano takes around 1 hour to 1 hour 30 mins. Desenzano to Sirmione is connected by Bus. The bus usually runs every hour from Desenzano to Sirmione.

If the guided tour is not an option, then you should consider booking a romantic boat trip around Sirmione Peninsula.

Book your Boat trip in Sirmione.

Book your train tickets to Desenzano.

4. Day trip from Milan to Lugano

Located on the coasts of Lake Lugano, the picturesque City of Lugano is another gem of a place you can comfortably visit from Milan in one day. The city is surrounded by a beautiful lake and numerous mountains. Geographically Lugano is in Switzerland, however, Italian is the main language of the city. Being on the border of Italy, the culture in Lugano closely resembles the North Italian region of Lombardy. Lugano is also the third most important financial centre in Switzerland. Its historic city centre is traffic-free and has a touch of Mediterranean Architecture. The coast of Lugano offers mesmerizing views of the Lake and mountains from every corner.

The mountains around Lake Lugano offer spectacular Panoramic views of the Alps. The Famous Mount Bre is easily reachable by Funicular and panoramic points can further be explored by walking.

Guided day trips from Milan to Lugano:

There are guided day trips available from Milan to Lugano. En route to Lugano, you will also be having stops at Lake Como including Bellagio.

Book your guided day trip to Lugano.

There are direct trains that run from Milan Central Station to Lugano every half hour. The journey takes around 1 hour and 30 Minutes.

Book Your train tickets to Lugano

5. Day trip from Milan to Florence

Florence needs no introduction. Florence is well known to the world for its rich history and world-class architecture. The city is far from Milan, but it is reachable from Milan in 1 hour and 55 minutes (Thanks to Italy’s super-fast trains). Although just one day in Florence would not do justice to City’s caliber, it would be enough to see just the main attraction of the city and experience the City’s unique atmosphere.

Florence was one of the most important cities in Italy and Europe. The city served as the capital of the Kingdom of Italy in the 18th century for 6 years. Florence has a rich history. The city formed in the Roman era was one of the wealthiest cities in Europe. The city attracts Millions of tourists every year due to its unique architecture, especially the Cathedral of Santa Maria which is one of the largest cathedrals in the world. The dome of Santa Maria Cathedral is the largest in the world.

Florence has so many things to do. During the day trip, you can explore as much as you can according to your pace. However, it is recommended to visit at least the following places in Florence during a day trip. To avoid wasting time in Queue, make sure to book your entry tickets in advance.

Santa Maria Cathedral:

Built in the 14th century, the majestic Santa Maria cathedral is the main attraction of Florence. There is always a waiting line to enter the cathedral, therefore, It is important to book your entry ticket in advance.

The Uffizi:

The art gallery is famous for its world-class collections of sculptures and paintings, the Uffizi is one of the top attractions of Florence and a must-visit place.

Michelangelo Gallery:

The main reason to visit Michelangelo’s gallery is to admire the masterpiece sculpture of Michelangelo’s David.

Piazzale Michelangelo

Piazzale Michelangelo is a square offering a Panoramic view of the city. It’s a great place to experience the romantic Sunset over the city.

Ponte Vecchio

Ponte Vecchio is the bridge from medieval times famous for its shops built along the bridge. It is a notable symbol of the city of Florence.

Guided Day trips from Milan to Florence:

There are guided day trips to Florence from Milan operated by travel agencies. Due to the long distance, the transport during the guided trips is offered by fast trains.

Book your Guided Day trip to Florence.

Florence is directly connected by train from Milan. It is necessary to book fast trains instead of slower ones to save time during travel. Fast trains run every hour from Milan to Florence and vice-versa.

Book Your train tickets to Florence

6. Day trip from Milan to Verona:

Verona, the romantic city, was Home to William Shakespeare’s Masterpiece setting “The Romeo and Juliet”. Formed during the Romans Era, Verona is also a part of UNESCO world heritage sites. The city settled across the Adige River has a rich history of Poetry, art, and music. The famous Amphitheatre from the Roman era is one of the main attractions of the city which hosts numerous events, music concerts, Opera, etc. throughout the year.

The city is said to be a favorite of William Shakespeare. In addition to Romeo and Juliet, Verona also featured in William Shakespeare’s play “Two Gentlemen of Verona” which made the city more popular among tourists around the world.

Verona has many things to do during the day trip, the top attractions of the city are the Roman Amphitheatre, Castelveccio, the House of Juliet, Piazza Ebre, Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, Duomo di Santa Maria, San Fermo Maggiore, etc.

Guided day trips from Milan to Verona:

If you are visiting for the first time, then it is good to try a Guided day trip to Verona.

Book your guided day trip to Verona

Many direct trains are running from Milan to Verona including fast trains and regional trains. Fast trains take around 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach Verona and the regional train takes around 1 hour and 50 Mins.

Book Your train tickets to Verona

7. Day trip from Milan to Bologna

The city famous for its food, Bologna is also called the Gastronomical capital of Italy and would be a great idea for a day trip from Milan. If you are a food lover, then you must visit Bologna to try fresh kinds of pasta with rich Italian flavours.

Bologna is one of the oldest cities in Italy and has a very interesting history dating back to BCE. The well-preserved historic city center of Bologna gives a feel of being in another time. Most of the tourist attractions of the city are walkable from the city center.

The leaning towers built during the Middle Ages are recognized as a main symbol of the city and one of the top attractions to visit in Bologna. The towers offer mesmerizing panoramic views of Bologna city. The other attractions to visit during a day trip to Bologna are Piazza Maggiore, Basilica of St. Petronius, Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, Basilica of Saint Stefan, etc.

Bologna also hosts the Longest-running university in the world. It is recommended to visit the University if you have spare time during the day trip.

Guided Day trips from Milan to Bologna:

There are guided group day trips available from Milan to Bologna. It is recommended to book a guided trip to Bologna if you are visiting in a group.

Book your guided day trip to Bologna

Bologna is directly connected by train from Milan. Since Bologna is far from Milan, it is recommended to book fast trains to save more time for sightseeing in Bologna. Fast trains depart from Milan Around every 30 minutes. Fast trains usually take 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach Bologna from Milan.

Book Your train tickets to Bologna

8. Day trip from Milan to Bergamo (Citta Alta)

The city awarded as a Cultural Capital of Italy for the year 2023, Bergamo is a neighboring city of Milan and easily reachable by trains from Milan. The Citta Alta (which means upper City) is the old city of Bergamo from Medieval times situated on the hill and isolated from modern Bergamo. The old city is circled by massive defensive walls built in the 15th century which are part of UNESCO world heritage sites. The Bergamo Citta Alta is accessible by Funicular or by walk. Simply strolling in Medieval Bergamo Citta Alta gives vibes of being in Medieval times.

The main attraction to visit during the day trip to Bergamo is the old town itself which includes Piazza Vecchia, the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a cathedral of saint Alessandro Colleoni chapel, the city gates, and walls of the old city, etc.

There are no guided day trips from Milan to Bergamo. However, you can easily reach Bergamo by train from Milan. Trains are run from Milan to Bergamo every 30 Mins. Some trains depart from Milan Central Station, and some depart from Milano Porta Garibaldi.

Book Your train tickets to Bergamo

9. Day trip from Milan to Venezia (Venice):

Venice is not meant to be visited in a day. It needs time, that’s the reason we have kept it at number 9 in a ranking of best day trips from Milan. Venice is unique in all of the places mentioned in this article, However, the day trip would not do justice to the city’s potential. If you are really in a hurry, then a day trip to Venice from Milan would be a great idea. During the day trip from Milan to Venice, it is still possible to see most of Venice.

The city of Venice needs no introduction as It is one of the most famous places in the world and of course in Italy. Dating back to the Medieval era, the city was and still is the important trade center of Italy and Europe. The city is entirely located in the water and has no roads, as the boats are the only means of transport in the city if you don’t prefer to walk. The city is unique of its kind in the world, therefore, the city itself is an open museum to explore and admire its unique atmosphere. Saint Mark Square is the main attraction of this old trade center which is home to famous the Saint Mark’s Basilica and its bell tower. Don’t forget to experience the Romantic Gondola ride in the Grand Canal of Venice.

To experience the unforgettable day trip from Milan to Venice, try to leave as early as possible from Milan and try exploring the city by walking instead of by boat to admire its unique atmosphere. Strolling through the picturesque canals of Venice through the old bridges would leave you with wonderful lifetime memories.

Guided day trips from Milan to Venice would be another great option to see most of Venice in one day. The guided trips also provide precious knowledge of the city’s rich history, art, and culture.

Book your Guided day trip from Milan to Venice

Venice is reachable by train from Milan. It is recommended to book a fast train to reduce transit time. The journey from Milan to Venice takes around 2 hours and 30 Mins. Fast Trains usually run from Milan’s central station to Venice's central station every hour in the morning. Remember to catch the train to Venezia Santa Lucia train station which is the main train station located in the old city of Venice. Don’t book a train running to Venezia Mestre since you need to catch another train to reach Venezia Santa Lucia from Venezia Mestre.

Also, remember that the Old City of Venice has no roads, if you are driving to Venice, then you need to park your cars at Piazza Roma which is located near the entrance of the old city. From there, the city can be explored on a walk or by boat.

Book your train tickets to Venice from Milan

10. Day trip from Milan to Portofino

Portofino is a great idea for a romantic day trip from Milan. Portofino is a charming, romantic, and picturesque coastal town situated on the coast of Liguria in Italy. This beautiful Italian town is rich in culture and famous among the locals for a weekend getaway. The town is surrounded by Ligurian Hills on the one side and clear blue sea on the other, the colorful houses arranged in a curve along the coast, the parked fishermen’s boats dancing in the sea, the scent of delicious Italian recipe, is all Portofino has to offer.

The picturesque abbey of San Fruttuoso is just a 20-minute ferry ride away from Portofino. San Fruttuoso is an isolated place and can only be reached by ferry. Due to its clear blue water, the San Fruttuoso is also famous among Scuba divers. It also has the submerged statue of Jesus Christ which can be seen by scuba diving.

A guided trip would be a great option to visit Portofino from Milan which also takes you through the city of Genoa. Also, guided trips would reduce travel time.

Book your guided day trip to Portofino

Portofino can be reached by train from Milan. Your nearest train station in Portofino is Santa Margarita Liguria. From Santa Margarita Liguria, Portofino can be reached by 15-minute Bus ride. There are direct trains that run from Milan to Santa Margarita Liguria, but the frequency is not so great for a direct train. If you cannot match the timing of direct trains, you can always book trains with 1 change at Genoa.

Book your train tickets to Portofino

11. Day Trip from Milan to Sant Moritz by Bernina Express

Bernina Express is the most famous panoramic train that crosses through most scenic routes in the alpine landscapes of Switzerland. The Scenic route of Bernina Express is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The train passes through dramatic landscapes, snow-covered mountains, numerous bridges, and tunnels.

Although the day trip from Milan to Saint Moritz will be a very long day, at the end of the day, you will be amazed and equally satisfied by the scenic train journey and the beauty of Saint Moritz.

Sant Moritz is a Swiss town located around 1800 Meters from the sea level. Being located at a higher elevation, the town is famous for its ski resorts and winter activities. Saint Moritz has also hosted 2 Winter Olympics so far and is well-recognized in the world. Visiting Saint Moritz in winter is a magical experience. Sant Mouritz Via Bernina Express can be visited from Milan either by Guided trips or personally by trains.

Guided Trips to Saint Mauritz via Bernina Express:-

A guided day trip to Saint Mauritz via Bernina Express is the easiest way to due to the long distance of the journey and travel time. With the Guided trip, the travel time will be reduced due to one-way transport by a private coach.

Book your Guided day trip to Saint Mauritz

To reach Saint Mauritz by Train from Milan, 1st you need to catch the train to Tirano from Milan. The train runs every hour from Milan to Tirano. The journey from Milan to Tirano takes around 2 hours and 30 Mins. From Tirano, you need to catch the Bernina Express to Saint Mauritz. Bernina Express runs from Tirano to Saint Moritz 5 times per day and vice versa. The Scenic train journey between Tirano and Sant Mouritz takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.

The total journey time for the day trip from Milan is around 10 hours. Therefore, try to leave as early as possible from Milan to catch the 1st train running from Tirano to Saint Moritz.

Check the timetable and book tickets for Bernina Express.

12. Day trip to Cinque Terre from Milan:-

Cinque is an Italian word translated in English as the number “Five” and Terre is translated as “Lands”. “Five Lands” is a group of 5 unique Italian villages, together they called Cinque Terre. Being a visit to five villages, the day trip from Milan to Cinque Terre would be a very busy day. Although, if you have time, it is better to spend more time in Cinque Terre (at least 2 days).

The five villages of Cinque Terre are Riomaggiore, Monarola, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Monarola located on the Italian coast of Liguria region. All these five villages are unique and are equally beautiful. The villages with picturesque colorful houses facing towards the coast of the blue sea have a unique atmosphere and give a glimpse of the Italian way of living.

If you don’t have enough time to visit all five villages during a day trip, then at least visit the top 3 villages which are Riomaggiore, Monarola, and Vernazza. All these five villages are connected by trains which run every 20 to 30 mins. To explore the Cinque Terre villages, you can get a Cinque Terre train pass which is valid for one day for unlimited travel within the Cinque Terre.

Cinque Terre can be visited from Milan by trains, cars, or by Guided trips. The guided trips to Cinque Terre are recommended due to the long distance and travel time. Also, for the Guided trips, transport between the villages will be done by cruise instead of train.

Book Your Guided trip to Cinque Terre

By Trains: -

Cinque Terre is Far from Milan, however, direct fast trains run from Milan to Levanto which is the starting point for trains running between Cinque Terre villages. Direct train from Milan to Levanto takes around 3 hours. Therefore, it is recommended to catch the earliest possible train to have more time during the day trips.

From Levanto, you can either purchase a single journey ticket to Cinque Terre villages or you can buy a day pass for unlimited train travel within Cinque Terre villages. If you want to explore villages by boat instead of train, you can purchase boat tickets for one day within Cinque Terre villages. Consider that the Village of Corniglia is not located on the coast, therefore, you cannot reach Corniglia by Ferry boat.

Book your tickets for the Ferry boat in Cinque Terre

13. Day Trip from Milan to Turin

Turin is the capital city of the northern region of Italy called Piedmont. Turin was previously the capital of Italy for some time in the 18th century, and now it is an important financial hub of Italy. Being ruled by many empires including Romans in the past, Turin has played an important role in the History of Italy.

Turin has so many things to offer its Visitors. The most famous attraction of the city is its Egyptian Museum which is an Archaeological Museum with a collection of a wide range of vital Egyptian Artifacts. Some collections of the Museum are said to be 4000 years old.

Book a guided tour of the Egyptian Museum

The next best thing to do in Turin is to explore its royal palace located in the city center. The palace is full of royal interiors and rich decorations. The palace also hosts the world’s largest collection of weapons of old times. Due to its Uniqueness, the Palace is also listed among UNESCO’s World Heritage sites.

Book a guided tour of the Royal Palace of Turin

With a Few minutes walk from the City center, you will find the symbol of the City of Turin called Mole Antonelliana. Mole Antonelliana was built in 1889 and was the tallest building in Europe at that time. The mole Antonelliana offers the best panoramic views of the city.

If you have an interest in the evolution of the Automobile, then visit the Automobile Museum in Turin which has a collection of numerous vintage cars that demonstrates the History of Automobile evolution.

Turin is directly connected by Trains from Milan. Direct trains run from different train stations in Milan every 30 minutes. The train journey from Milan to Turin takes around 1 hour by fast trains and around 2 hours by slow trains.

Book your train tickets to Turin

14. Day Trip from Milan to Genoa and the largest Aquarium in Europe

Genoa, the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, also called the port city of Italy, is the sixth largest city in Italy. Genoa is also home to one of the largest ports in Italy and Europe, which was once a very important maritime trade center for Europe.

The main attraction of the city of Genoa is its Aquarium which is the largest Aquarium in Europe. Home to over 12000, specimens, 600 animal species, and 200 vegetal species, the Hi-tech Aquarium of Genoa is a must-visit place in Genoa, especially if you are travelling with kids. The Aquarium is also home to the species like sharks, Dolphins, and Penguins.

The aquarium usually takes 2 to 3 hours to explore fully. For visiting Genoa Aquarium, you need to buy your entry tickets in advance and reserve your timeslot for entrance.

Buy your entry tickets to Genoa Aquarium

After the visit to the Aquarium, the next best thing to do in Genoa is to visit its old port. The old port is a very important symbol of the city of Genoa and is popular among the locals. The area is also filled with restaurants and bars and a great place to try some delicious Genoese Seafood.

The main city center of Genoa called Piazza de Ferrari is also worth a visit. It is recommended to visit a Palazzi dei Rolli which is a royal palace that was home to Genoese nobilities.

Genoa is directly connected by Trains from Milan. Trains are running for Genoa every 30 minutes from various stations in Milan. The journey from Milan to Genoa takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Book Your train tickets to Genoa

15. Day Trip from Milan to Pavia

Pavia, the little city located in the south of Milan is an Ideal place to have a comfortable day trip from Milan. Pavia was once the capital of the Lombardy region of Italy. Later the capital was changed to Milan. Pavia is mainly famous for Its 14th-century Monastery called “Certosa di Pavia”. The monastery is one of the largest in Italy and it is dedicated to Carthusian monks. Now the Monastery is also open for tourists free of cost.

Pavia is a Medieval city. Therefore, the city has well-preserved Medieval architecture like the Duomo di Pavia, Medieval towers, the Basilica di San Michele, Castello Visconteo, etc. Pavia also hosts 2nd oldest University in Italy called the University of Pavia which was 1st built in the 9th century as a school and later in the 14th century was transformed into a university.

Ticino River passes from the middle of Pavia city, therefore, you will always find a pleasant atmosphere in Pavia, especially at the bridge Ponte Coperto, which is the 13th-century bridge built on the Ticino River. Ponte Coperto is also one of the top attractions in Pavia.

Strolling through the cobbled lanes of Pavia, exploring its city Centre and discovering medieval architecture is always a great idea for a day trip from Milan.

Pavia is directly connected by Trains and buses from Milan. The preferable option is the train. Trains run from Milan to Pavia every 30 minutes. from various underground stations including Milano Porta Garibaldi train station. The train journey from Milan to Pavia takes around 50 Minutes.

16. Day trip from Milan to Varese

Varese is a small Italian city located on the north side of Milan. The town famous for its Gardens and villas, Varese is also called “Garden City”.

The main attraction of the city is Monte Sacro, translated in English as Sacred Mountain, which has 14 chapels situated on the slopes of a mountain. The Monte Sacro is also listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Another main attraction of the city is Palazzo Estene, which was once a summer residence of the Habsburg family.

Varese is also known for its lake called Lake Varese. The soothing and picturesque lake is a great location for spending some quiet time with nature.

Also, walking through the cobbled lanes of the city center will give a glimpse of the city’s history.

Varese is directly connected to Milan by train. The direct trains run every 30 Minutes from Milano Porta Garibaldi train station. The train Journey from Milan to Varese Takes around 1 hour and 15 Minutes.

We hope that this blog will help you to plan the best and most comfortable day trip from Milan. If you need any professional advice or support for planning a trip to Italy, then reach out to Guidemyvoyage experts based in Italy. Also, check out our other blogs on different travel tips for travelling in Europe.

More Related Articles:

Lake Como in 2 days (The Best Places to Visit in Lake Como in 2 days)

Lake Maggiore from Milan

Explore The Best of Puglia in 3 Days

Best Vineyards and Wineries Near Milan to Visit in One Day

Top 5 charming Italian towns you should Visit

Recent Posts

Countryside day trips from Siena to explore the best of Tuscany

Day trip to Lake Garda from Milan (Guide to the self-guided day trip to Lake Garda from Milan)

Portofino From Milan (Detailed guide on a self-guided day trip from Milan to Portofino)

1 comentário

Wonderful article, thank you!

12 best day trips from Milan

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• best-day-trips-from-milan

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Joanne Owen

updated 06.02.2024

In welcome news for travellers who want more from their city breaks, Milan offers easy access to a host of handsome destinations. Interest piqued? Read on to discover the 12 best day trips from Milan. From exploring some of Lombardy's lakes , and discovering Bologna’s gastronomic delights, to revelling in Verona’s romance, this rundown might just leave you longing to extend your trip.

1. Lake Como

2. lake garda.

• 9. Lake Maggiore

11. Bergamo

12. brescia, travel ideas for italy, created by local experts.

8 days  / from 2646 USD

Experience the hit TV show 'The White Lotus' in Sicily

Stay in beautiful Taormina with gorgeous views of Mount Etna and discover Sicily, including famous filming locations. Go on exclusive wine tastings, discover the Greek theater in Taormina with a private guide, visit other Sicilian towns and enjoy the crystal clear water on this week-long trip.

8 days  / from 3289 USD

Enchanting Italian Lakes

Experience the picturesque lakes of Northern Italy, including Lake Garda, Como, Lugano and Maggiore; explore the charming Borromean Islands – former favourites of Ernest Hemingway – and stroll the romantic streets of Verona and Milan. All of this, and much more, with this self-drive trip!

16 days  / from 3289 USD

From Venice to Florence: A Grand Tour of Northern Italy

From the atmospheric canals of Venice and the picturesque coastline of Cinque Terre, to the trendy designer boutiques of Milan and the Renaissance-infused streets of Florence, Northern Italy has plenty to offer. Experience it all with this comprehensive trip.

5 days  / from 1615 USD

Florence: A Trip Back In Time

Florence. A mere mention of the name conjures up grand images of Renaissance romance, awe-inspiring art and astonishing architecture. Come and see for yourself.

4 days  / from 1026 USD

Eternal Rome for the Weekend

Welcome to this whirlwind tour of Rome, also known as the Eternal City. Rome is one of the most photogenic cities on earth, so make sure you pack your camera.

6 days  / from 2700 USD

Wine and food in Tuscany

Stay at a beautiful hotel in San Gimignano, a medieval hill town half way between Florence and Siena. Tuscany is known for its wines and food and that's what you'll be exploring on this itinerary - several wine and food pairings await. All hand-picked by your local travel specialist.

1 hour from Milan by train

Surrounded by lush, green woodland, with shimmering waters to traverse on romantic boat trips, there’s a reason Lake Como is widely considered to be one of the loveliest Italian lakes.

On a day trip from Milan, your best bet is to focus on its southern area. Conveniently, Lake Como’s principal towns, Como and Lecco, are at the southernmost tips of their own branches of the lake — Ramo di Como and Ramo di Lecco. 

Lake Como, Italy — one of the best day trips from Milan © Shutterstock

Set around a small bay at the southernmost tip of the lake’s western fork, Como is an affluent, ancient town. Much of its wealth comes from outlying factories that produce luxury silk items for the fashion houses of Milan, Paris and New York.  

At the centre of the bay, lakeside Piazza Cavour is bounded by hotels. However, it takes only a few steps to find yourself among historic churches and atmospheric streets.

After wandering Como’s once-walled quarter, with pedestrianized cobbled lanes reflecting their Roman origins, visit the Duomo. With an enchanting mix of fairy-tale pinnacles, classical statues, and Renaissance tapestries, this is esteemed as Italy’s best example of Gothic-Renaissance fusion.

Next up, stroll the lakeside promenade that curls through a park to Villa Olmo, a Neoclassical pile with glorious (free) gardens. Then ride the funicular railway past nineteenth-century villas to Brunate. This small hilltop resort has plenty of places to eat and drink while you take in gorgeous views of the lake.

Como city cathedral and city skyline © Shutterstock

With the Grigne mountain range as a broodings backdrop, Lecco is at its most atmospheric in the morning, when mists shroud the lake.  

Love literature? Visit Villa Manzoni, the childhood home of Alessandro Manzoni, author of the great nineteenth-century Italian novel Promessi Sposi (“The Betrothed”). Today this houses the Museo Manzoniano, a local art gallery, and library. 

Another Lecco highlight is the lakefront Basilica, where you can climb the second highest bell tower in Italy for soul-stirring views of the city, lake and mountains

Lecco colorful square view, Como Lake, Lombardy region of Italy © Shutterstock

At 52km long and 17km wide, Lake Garda (Lago di Garda) is Italy’s largest lake. In fact, Lake Garda actually alters the local climate. As a result of a specific pattern of lake breezes, it’s milder here, and often sunnier than might be expected. 

Of all Italy’s lakes, Lake Garda also draws the most visitors, and comes recommended as one of the best day trips from Milan. Take your pick from these two beauties:

At the bottom of Lake Garda, the long, narrow promontory of Sirmione is lined with hotels leading up to a very pretty village that’s accessed through ancient castle walls.  

Sirmione’s picture-postcard charm owes much to the fairy-tale castle at its entrance. Built when the Della Scala/Scaligeri family of Verona expanded and fortified their territory in the thirteenth century, the Rocca Scaligera is almost entirely surrounded by water.  

At the far end of the promontory, a mere fifteen-minute stroll from the castle, you’ll find the remains of a first-century BC/AD Roman villa — the Grotte di Catullo. Scattered among ancient olive trees, the ruins offer superb views across the lake.  

Partway along the route to the Roman ruins, a path heads to a shingle beach, the Lido delle Bionde. Here you can eat, drink, swim in the lake, or sunbathe on the pontoon.

Sirmione, popular travel destination on Lake Garda in Italy © Shutterstock

Desenzano del Garda

At Garda’s southwest extremity, Desenzano is a good access point to the lake, and is also within easy reach of Milan. Its attractive waterfront squares – Piazza Malvezzi and Piazza Matteotti – are lined with bars and restaurants. 

Nearby, the Roman villa on Via Crocifisso boasts marvellous mosaics, while the castle looming over town offers spectacular views.

Love the sound of the lakes? You'll fall head over heels in love with our customisable Enchanting Italian Lakes itinerary. You'd also do well to get  The Rough Guide to the Italian Lakes .

Porto Vecchio in Desenzano del Garda, Italy © Shutterstock

45-minutes from Milan by train

For some respite from Milan’s bustle, head to the small, ancient city of Pavia. Here architectural wonders are served with fine wine, best enjoyed along the banks of the winding Ticino River. 

The main reason people are pulled to the Pavia area is to visit the Certosa di Pavia (Charterhouse of Pavia). Set among the rice fields around 40km south of Milan, this is one of the most extravagant monasteries in Europe. Commissioned in 1396 by the Duke of Milan as the family mausoleum, it took a century to build.

As a work of art, the Certosa di Pavia is one of the most important testimonies to the transformation from late-Gothic to Renaissance and Mannerist styles. However, Pavia also boasts a range of Romanesque and Gothic churches, and a plethora of pretty places to eat.

Aerial view of Pavia, Italy - Certosa di Pavia © Shutterstock

Mad about music? Cremona is definitely one of the best day trips from Milan! 

A cosy provincial town in the middle of the Po plain, Cremona is famed for its violins. Andrea Amati established the first violin workshop here in 1566, followed by his son, grandson, and pupils Guarneri and Antonio Stradivari. 

Today the city is home to an internationally esteemed school of violin making, and the fascinating Museo del Violino. Add to that some fine Renaissance and medieval buildings, the splendid Piazza del Comune and Duomo, plus plenty of scenic spots to sip wine and people watch, and your day trip from Milan will amount to a richly rewarding experience.

Cremona panorama © Shutterstock

2 hours from Milan by train. Fast train: 1h 27m

Exhilaratingly eclectic, “La Superba” — as Genoa was known at the height of its powers — exudes undeniable vibrancy and intrigue. As such, it’s one of our favourite day trips from Milan. 

Stretching behind the revitalised old port, Genoa’s old town is an alluring labyrinth of medieval alleyways. Here you’ll find food shops tucked housed in former palaces, carpenters’ workshops jammed between designer furniture outlets, and no shortage of charming places to sample local seafood.  

Aside from soaking up the city’s cosmopolitan buzz, don’t miss the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, the Palazzo Ducale, and the Renaissance palaces of Via Garibaldi, which contain the best of Genoa’s art collections. 

If it’s art you’re after, you’ll also want to visit the Gesù. Located on the corner of Piazza de Ferrari and Piazza Matteotti, this was designed by Pellegrino Tibaldi at the end of the sixteenth century. Today it houses a marvel of marble and gilt stucco and some fine Baroque paintings. Higlhights include Guido Reni’s Assumption, and two works by Rubens — The Miracles of St Ignatius, and The Circumcision.

Genoa's old town © Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

45-minutes from Milan by train

Turin  is the perfect place to devour hearty, rich  Piemonte  cooking at its finest. Given that  it is a top  destination for foodies , visiting this heritage-rich city might just turn out to be your favourite day trip from Milan.  

Chocolate production in Turin began more than 500 years ago. As a mark of the city’s chocolate credentials, even Swiss chocolatiers train here. It is also worth metioning that Turin’s Pepino gelataria claims to have created the first choco ice, with them patenting their “pinguino” in Turin in 1939. In other firsts for Turin, the city created Vermouth back 1786, and also claims to have invented the Italy-wide tradition of aperitivo.     

With Baroque avenues, opulent palaces and splendid art, Turin also has plenty to keep culture vultures happy. Don’t miss visiting the incredible Egyptian Museum and Royal Palace. While the museum is second only to Cairo’s Egyptian museum, the Royal Palace was the most opulent residence of Italy's House of Savoy royal family. 

Rough Guides tip: Food figure high as a travel priority? Browse our customisable Wine and Food in Tuscany trip, or talk to our local Italy experts to curate your perfect food-focussed experience.

Turin, Italy © Shutterstock

1 hour 15 minutes from Milan by train

Famed for being the home of Romeo and Juliet, Verona is a romantic gem. Think pink-hued medieval buildings, ancient bridges crossing the broad curves of the Adige River, and more pretty piazzas and palazzos than you can wave an opera glove at. On that subject, visit in August for Verona's world-famous opera festival. 

With a bounty of Roman attractions, and historic sites that are only second in number to Venice, unlike Venice, Verona is never overwhelmed by tourists. In addition, despite being the largest city of the mainland Veneto, Verona invites easy immersion. With cars and buses prohibited from many squares and medieval lanes in its historic centre, it’s a place to amble at leisure. 

Don’t miss the remarkable Roman amphitheatre, red-and-white-striped Duomo, 14th-century Arche Scaligere market, Palazzo della Ragione and Piazza dei Signori.  

If you’ve been drawn by the city’s Shakespearean connections, the Casa di Giulietta is the foremost of Verona’s Romeo and Juliet attractions. You can also visit “Romeo’s house”, a private dwelling at Via Arche Scaligere 4, and the Tomba di Giulietta, in the southeast of the city.

Verona © Shutterstock

As with Turin, if you love your grub, bella  Bologna  is one of the best day trips from Milan. Capital of  Emilia-Romagna , Bologna’s restaurants are said to be the best in Italy. It’s not for nothing that the city is known as La Grassa — “The Fat One”. 

To start getting stuck into Bologna’s cuisine, head to the Mercato di Mezzo, where you can buy fresh salads, calamari, platters of ham and cheese, plus wine and beer. We also recommend taking a food-themed walking tour of the city to sample the region’s incredible cheese, tortellini and mortadella. 

Once you’ve had your fill, meander the city’s impossibly pretty medieval streets and the grand central square of Piazza Maggiore. An attractive mass of red brick buildings and balconies, Piazza Maggiore is also a magnificent place to drink decadent hot chocolate while watching the world go by.

The Rough Guides to Italy and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Home to Europe’s first university, Bologna boasts museums and galleries galore. Top of the tree sits the Museo Civici d’Arte Antica, which is home to the Collezioni Comunali d’Arte, the Museo Davia Bargellini, and the Museo Civico Medievale.

Piazza Maggiore, Bologna, Italy © Shutterstock

9. Lake Maggiore 

1 hour by train to Stresa by train, plus a 20-minute ferry to the Borromean Islands

Characterised by crystalline, blue waters, and surrounded by green hills, with palms and oleanders lining the lakeside promenades, Lake Maggiore has a marvellously serene air. At 66km, it’s also Italy’s longest lake. 

Most day-trippers from Milan take the high-speed train to the genteel, sleepy scenic resort town of Stresa. From here, the glorious gardens and villas of the Borromean islands — Bella, Madre and Pescatore — are within easy reach via a 20-minute ferry ride. 

Famed for being a favourite haunt of Ernest Hemingway, this trio of beauties are known for their palatial villas, lush parks, and vibrant endemic flora. Romantics will be especially bowled over by Isola Bella. As well as exploring its sumptuous Baroque gardens, don't miss the island’s opulent palazzo. This boasts a banqueting hall, ballroom and throne room, with mirror- and shell-encrusted grottoes down at water level.

Elegant, charming and out-of-this-world enchanting, it’s fair to say that visiting Lake Maggiore makes for an unforgettable day trip from Milan.

Isola Bella is one of the Borromean Islands of Lago Maggiore © Shutterstock

1.5 hours by train from Milan

Located in the Swiss canton of Ticino , taking a day trip from Milan to Lugano can't come more highly recommended. And the reason? With its compact cluster of Italianate piazzas and tree-lined promenades, Lugano is the most alluring of Ticino’s lake resorts. Which is really saying something. 

Basking on a south-facing bay of Lake Lugano, the city is framed by wooded hills that rise sheer from the water. Less famous than its Italian near-neighbour Como, Lugano is smaller, sassier and even more stylish. 

From its old alleys and winding lanes, to its up-market delicatessens, boutiques, and villa-style hotels, Lugano invites visitors to enjoy the good life. It's also a place to explore churches and galleries, and indulge in strolls under lakeside palms.  

For breath-taking views, take a two-stage funicular to Monte Brè from Cassarate — ten minutes’ walk east of the centre of Lugano. Rising directly above the city to a height of 660m, the vista from the summit showcases the lake and surrounding mountains in all their jaw-dropping glory.

Lugano, Switzerland © Shutterstock

1 hour by train from Milan. 45-minute fast trains also available

50km northeast of Milan, Bergamo looks and feels much closer to the mountains. As such, to mix up your experience, it’s the perfect place to head to on a day trip from Milan. 

A real beauty, Bergamo owes much of its magic to the Venetians, who ruled the town for over 350 years. They gave the city its ring of gated walls. You’ll also see facades and open spaces adorned with the Venetian lion. 

Another unique element of Bergamo is the way it comprises two distinct parts — Bergamo Bassa, the lower town, city centre on the plain, and medieval Bergamo Alta, 100m above. With charming medieval cobbled quarters rubbing shoulders with late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century buildings, Bergamo Bassa is an architectural delight. 

Meanwhile, Bergamo Alta, the upper town, is one of northern Italy’s loveliest urban centres. Attractive and easy-going, in appearance Bergamo Alta remains pretty much as it was in the Middle Ages. The main public spaces – Piazza Vecchia and Piazza del Duomo – combine medieval austerity with the elegance of later Renaissance design.

Bergamo, Italy © Shutterstock

36 minutes from Milan by train

Boasting a scenic backdrop of vine-covered hills, wealthy Brescia has much to offer travellers who love the allure of ancient attractions, art and contemporary verve. 

Overlooked by its Castello, which has been perched on a hill overlook town since the fifteenth century, Brescia boasts Roman remains, Renaissance squares and a magnificent medieval centre. Here you’ll find the marvellous Santa Giulia museum complex.  

Visit the Castello to see one of the most extensive collections of arms and weaponry in Europe, or visit in May for Brescia’s legendary Mille Miglia car race. This sees hundreds of stunning classic cars set off from the city centre to Rome. 

Into art? Housed in a historic sixteenth century building, the Pinacoteca Tosio Martinengo has been the home of Brecia’s impressive art collection since 1908. The exhibition kicks off with works from the fourteenth century, followed by Raphael’s Christ Blessing and Angel, before moving to sixteenth century Brescian paintings.

Meanwhile, the Parco Archeologico di Brescia Romana reveals the remarkably well-preserved Roman ruins of ancient Brixia. Built in the first century, the Santuario Repubblicano here showcases wall paintings that are the only surviving monumental example of Republican Roman painting in northern Italy.

Brescia, Italy © Shutterstock

For more inspiration, browse our customisable  Italy itineraries , or talk to our local  Italy experts .

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

• History Culture Heritage
• Architecture
• Train Journeys
• Inspiration
• See & Do
• Travel Tips
• Where to stay

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Travel advice for Italy

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Italy

• Eating and drinking in Italy
• How to get to Italy
• Getting around Italy: Transportation Tips
• Shopping tips for Italy
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Italy
• Travel Tips Italy for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Italy
• How to spend 7 days In Italy - 8 unique itineraries
• The Best 10-Day Italy Travel Itinerary
• How To Spend 14 Days In Italy - 5 Unique Itineraries
• How to get from Rome to Florence

Find even more inspiration for 35 here

Ready to travel and discover italy, get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Itineraries
• Travel advice

The 33 Best Day Trips from Milan to Explore Italy

• Post author: Naddya
• Post category: Road Trips
• Post published: February 9, 2022

If you’re spending several days in Milan, you’ll love the following:

The city is the perfect base camp for discovering Italy and its neighbors.   

Wondering where to go? On this list, you’ll find 33 ideas for day trips from Milan, Italy .

Just an hour or two away from the lively metropolis lie verdant forests, race tracks, intriguing monasteries, charming historical towns, and magnificent castles.

Foodies, history buffs, nature lovers, and music enthusiasts can choose from a wide variety of destinations.

Let’s jump right in and see what you can explore on a day trip from Milan!

✅ Note : This article contains affiliate links . In case you purchase something through one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping us keep creating the free content on this website!

The Best Day Trips from Milan for Foodies

Italy is world-famous for its incredible cuisine. Everywhere you travel, you will devour delectable dishes . However, the following destinations are renowned not only for their unique products but also for their rich history. Let’s begin the culinary quest.  

• Bologna . Home of the world’s oldest university, Bologna seduces with its countless museums, churches, and eateries. The city is popular as the birthplace of several Italian delicacies, as well as for its covered sidewalks, called porticos . Try the scrumptious tagliatelle al ragu , commonly known as pasta Bolognese, before getting lost in the Old Town’s winding streets or climbing the Two Towers . Your travel time from Milan to Bologna will be just 1:15 hours by train or 2:35 hours by car.
• Parma . For a mouthwatering experience, visit Parma on a day trip from Milan. The university city is famed for the lip-smacking Parmesan cheese and the finger-licking Parma ham . Apart from sampling local delicacies, don’t miss the frescoed Parma Cathedral and the pink Baptistery in the city center. If you want to marvel at incredible art, check out Galleria Nazionale . Located in the majestic Palazzo della Pilotta , the gallery showcases works by Correggio and Canaletto. The travel time from Milan to Parma is about 50 minutes by train and around 2:00 hours by car.
• Modena . The city is famous for its rich balsamic vinegar. The protected condiment follows a regulated recipe. It guarantees the supreme quality and taste of the balsamico di Modena . After you’re done tasting and learning the secrets of vinegar production, discover the opera heritage of Modena. The historical Teatro Comunale Luciano Pavarotti regularly presents the works of Bellini, Donizetti, and Rossini. Casa Museo Luciano Pavarotti in the former residence of the prominent tenor features costumes, photographs, and mementos. Travel to Modena from Milan by train or car. The duration of the trip is 1:15 hours and 2:20 hours, respectively.
• Reggio Emilia . Another great day trip destination for food lovers, Reggio Emilia will enchant you with its Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, Lambrusco wine, and balsamic vinegar. After quenching your gastronomical cravings, satisfy your cultural thirst by exploring the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta or the Civic Museums of Reggio Emilia . The cathedral features Roman floor mosaics and decorations by contemporary artists. The museums offer collections on natural history and decorative arts at five intriguing sites. You can reach Reggio Emilia from Milan by train in 1:10 hours and by car in around 2:05 hours.
• Treviso . One of the most characteristic Italian desserts originates from Treviso. According to locals, the delightful tiramisù was first prepared in Ristorante Le Beccherie . You’ll find the Michelin-starred restaurant in the Old Town. Venetian walls enclose the historic center. On the central Piazza dei Signori , you can explore the Palazzo dei Trecento , featuring ramparts and vaulted arcades. Another popular spot nearby is the Fontana delle Tette. On special occasions, this 16th-century fountain depicting a naked woman used to dispense wine. To reach Treviso from Milan, you’ll need about 3:15 hours by train or 3:20 hours by car.

The Best Milan Day Trips to Major Italian Cities

Every city in the following section deserves not just a day trip from Milan but a whole separate adventure. However, if a day is all you can spare, that’s OK, too. See which major Italian cities you can visit on a day trip from Milan below.

• Rome . The Eternal City’s history spans over 28 centuries, so don’t even think of exploring every attraction. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . It houses structures from Roman Times, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassicism eras. Lush gardens, magnificent fountains, epic sculptures, and grand arenas await your adventure-thirsty eyes. The Colosseum , Basilica Papale di Santa Maria, the Trevi Fountain, and Piazza Navona are just a few of the sublime spots you can explore in the Italian capital. The travel time between Milan and Rome by train is between 3:00 and 3:30 hours. By car, you’ll need double the time, so we don’t recommend this option.
• Venice . One of the most unique cities in the world, Venice is built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. Out of the 177 canals that connect the isles, the most impressive one is the Grand Canal . Renaissance and Gothic palaces line both its sides. The famous central square Piazza San Marco houses the St. Mark’s Basilica , the Campanile bell tower, and the Doge’s Palace . Tour the basilica for its Byzantine mosaics, the tower for the sweeping views of the city, and the Gothic palace for its opulent interiors. Travel from Milan to Venice by train to reach the city within 2:40 hours or by car to arrive in about 3:00 hours. If you prefer to have a guide with you, book this excellent tour by clicking the link .
• Florence . The capital of Tuscany and birthplace of poet Dante Alighieri houses numerous Renaissance masterpieces. In Galleria dell’Accademia , you can marvel at Michelangelo’s David . The Uffizi Gallery displays Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and da Vinci’s Annunciation . The iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore – or simply called the Duomo – dominates the historic center. Terracotta tiles adorn the Duomo’s gorgeous dome and bell tower, creating the cathedral’s unique vision. Palazzo Pitti and the adjacent Boboli Gardens offer not only art and relaxation but also sweeping panoramas over the city. You can reach Florence from Milan in under 2:00 hours by train or in 3:40 hours by car.
• Turin . The capital of Piedmont will captivate you with its chic architecture and scrumptious cuisine. The city boasts grandiose Baroque buildings and traditional cafés. Wide boulevards and splendid squares dissect the center. Roam the striking Piazza Castello and Piazza San Carlo before sitting at one of the countless trattorias to sample local antipasti and tagliolini with taleggio cheese and black truffle . Film fans should visit the extraordinary National Cinema Museum , located in a monumental 19 th -century tower. The travel time between Milan and Turin is around 1:15 hours by train and 2:00 hours by car.
• Genoa . As a port city and capital of Liguria, Genoa has been an important maritime trade center through the centuries. In the Old Town, you can explore the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. The Romanesque edifice attracts with its striped façade in black-and-white and its vibrant frescoed interior. Get lost in the narrow alleys, which lead to airy squares, such as the central Piazza de Ferrari . Don’t miss checking out the stunning bronze fountain in the middle and the nearby opera house Teatro Carlo Felice . Your travel time from Milan to Genoa will be approximately 1:30 hours by train and 2:15 hours by car. You can also join a tour and discover Genoa plus Portofino in a day .

The Best Day Trips from Milan to the Alps

The magnificent Alps offer a ton of heart-pumping activities and staggering views to sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. You can travel from Milan to several Italian and Swiss destinations in Europe’s most famous mountain range.

• Bergamo . The town at the foot of the Alps entices with its medieval historic center, Città Alta , on top of a hill. Venetian walls encircle the cobblestone streets, which host the Neoclassical Duomo di Bergamo , the Romanesque Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore , and the 15 th -century Cappella Colleoni . Expect to marvel at ornate marble exteriors, lavishly gilded interiors, gigantic tapestries, and vibrant frescoes. You can reach Bergamo from Milan in 48 minutes by train and 1:00 hour by car.
• Como . The postcard-perfect city at the southern tip of Lake Como captivates with its scenic views, posh Renaissance villas, Gothic cathedral, striking waterfront promenade, and funicular railway. Explore the Museo Didattico della Seta to learn the history of Como’s silk industry. Then, visit Tempio Voltiano Museum , dedicated to the inventor of the electrical battery – the Italian physicist Alessandro Volta. After you’ve roamed the streets of Como, take the funicular up the mountain to Brunate for breathtaking panoramas of Lake Como. You can reach Como from Milan by train in 40 minutes and by car in 1:00 hour.
• Bellagio . Another gorgeous town at the shores of Lake Como, the resort town Bellagio enthralls with its cobbled streets and elegant buildings. The most prominent one is Villa Serbelloni . Antique furniture fills its elegant rooms, but the highlight is the lush park. The huge, 18 th -century terraced garden boasts exotic plants and sweeping lake vistas. Other attractions in Bellagio include the exhibition center Tower of the Arts , the Romanesque San Giacomo Church , the rocky Loppia Beach , and the intriguing Museum of Navigational Instruments . The travel time from Milan to Bellagio is 1:35 hours by car. There is no train option, but you can join this excellent tour .
• Garda . The town on the shores of the largest Italian lake, Lake Garda, is one of the smallest towns in the province of Verona. The intact historical center houses several intriguing sights.  The 16 th -century Villa degli Albertini invites with its massive park, full of magnolia trees. Palazzo dei Capitani is a 14 th -century yellow edifice built in the Venetian Gothic style. The Renaissance Palazzo Carlotti hosts a small but charming art gallery. Several scenic spots on the town’s outskirts offer astonishing vistas of the lake. You can reach Garda from Milan by train in around 2:00 hours or by car in 2:15 hours. Alternatively, join this great small-group tour and visit not only Lake Garda but also the vibrant Verona.
• Desenzano del Garda . You can trace the history of the resort on the shore of Lake Garda back to the 1 st century. The remains of the Villa Romana prove that the town was an important site for the Roman Empire. The archaeological site is 2,000-years-old and features elaborate mosaic floors. The medieval hilltop castle Castello di Desenzano del Garda was built to withstand Barbarian invasions. Nowadays, it offers sweeping views of the lake. The Rambotti Archaeological Museum occupies a former convent and displays prehistoric objects. The trip from Milan to Desenzano del Garda takes about 50 minutes by train and 1:40 hours by car.
• The Borromean Islands . Located at the border between Italy and Switzerland, the stunning Lake Maggiore is home to the fascinating Borromean Islands. Three islands and two islets comprise the archipelago. To reach them, you first need to travel to the town of Stresa on the shores of the lake. From there, a scenic hop-on hop-off boat tour will charter you around the main islands. Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Madre host opulent palaces, symmetrical Italian gardens, and quant fishing villages. Your travel time from Milan to Stresa will be 1:00 hour by train or 1:30 hours by car.
• Aosta . The town is the gateway to the Aosta Valley, a beloved Alpine ski area. The Italian ski resort is located near the French border, at the entrance of the Mont Blanc Tunnel. Several medieval castles, including Cly Castle , Saint-Pierre Castle , and Fénis Castle , dot the valley. For winter sports enthusiasts, there are 510 mi (822 km) of slopes and 174 ski lifts waiting. The most popular spots are Courmayeur, Cervinia, and Champoluc. We recommend traveling to Aosta from Milan by car You’ll reach the town in 2:15 hours and you can continue exploring the area.
• Saint Moritz, Switzerland . The luxury alpine resort is a winter sports wonderland. It has hosted the Winter Olympics twice – in 1928 and 1948. You can exploit several of the facilities, built for the best athletes in the world. Slide the unique bobsled Cresta Run , which is made of natural ice, or show your moves at the outdoor Olympic ice-rink. Ski and snowboard enthusiasts can go nuts on 96 mi (155 km) of ski slopes, while cross-country skiers have 143 mi (230 km) of trails to enjoy. Off the pistes, check out the Segantini Museum . The Italian painter is best known for his Symbolist images of nature. If you travel by car, you’ll reach St. Moritz from Milan in 3:15 hours. The train journey takes too long to consider it for a one-day trip. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour .
• Lugano, Switzerland . The city stands on the northern shore of the glacial Lake Lugano, surrounded by mountains. You can spot its Swiss-Mediterranean mix of cultures in the architecture and cuisine. Pastel-colored, Neoclassical townhouses encircle the main square, Piazza della Riforma . Visit the imposing Cathedral of San Lorenzo , the elaborate Church of Santa Maria degli Angioli , and the intricate Church of San Rocco , as well as the contemporary art gallery Museo Cantonale d’Arte and the natural history museum Gabinetto di storia natural . Nature lovers can wander in Parco Ciani and on the scenic lakeside promenade. The trip duration from Milan to Lugano is 1:15 hours by train and 1:30 hours by car. You can also book a tour and explore Lake Como and Lugano in a day .
• Interlaken, Switzerland . The mountain resort in the Swiss Alps occupies a narrow stretch between the emerald-colored Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Traditional timber houses and stone churches dot the streets. The surrounding mountains boast with thick forests, alpine meadows, and crystal glaciers, as well as countless hiking and skiing trails. A funicular railway will take you to a mountain viewing deck. There, you can sample traditional local dishes while taking in the jaw-dropping panoramas. Travel to Interlaken from Milan by train 3:00 hours as the car journey takes too long. If you prefer to avoid planning the trip yourself, join this fantastic guided tour by clicking the link .

The Best Milan Day Trips to Quant Historical Towns

History buffs and nature lovers will love exploring these picturesque destinations on a day trip from Milan. From romantic balconies to rugged cliffs, and from walled cities to university towns, let’s dive right in.

• Verona . The city is most popular as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet . The balcony on a 14th-century building in the medieval Old Town is believed to be the one where Juliet stood while Romeo proclaimed his love. Apart from the Old Town, you can also explore the Verona Arena , a massive Roman amphitheater. It continues to hold concerts and large-scale opera performances even today. Your travel time from Milan to Verona will be approximately 1:20 hours by train and 2:00 hours by car. Alternatively, join this awesome tour and explore not only Verona but also the scenic Lake Garda.
• Cinque Terre . The coastal Five Lands area comprises of several picturesque historical villages. They are famous for their vibrant houses, steep vineyards, rugged coastline, fishing boat harbors, and seafood trattorias. Paths, trains, and boats connect the villages. You can only reach them by car from the outside via narrow, winding roads. If you wish to visit all five towns, take the Sentiero Azzurro hiking trail. It links the villages and offers breathtaking views of the Italian Riviera. Check the current condition of the trail for landslides and closures before starting the hike. Traveling from Milan to Cinque Terre takes between 3:00 and 3:30 hours by train and around 3:30 hours by car. The best way to explore the stunning region is by joining this wonderful small group tour .
• La Spezia . The port city La Spezia is adjacent to Cinque Terre and just as scenic. It boasts several interesting museums. In the Technical Naval Museum ,you can explore a 19 th -century maritime arsenal featuring ship models and navigational instruments. An archaeological museum occupies the hilltop St. George’s Castle and houses artifacts from the dawn of time to the Middle Ages. In the Amedeo Lia Museum , housed in a former convent, you’ll discover an art exhibition of paintings, sculptures, and miniatures. You can reach La Spezia from Milan in 3:05 hours by train or in 2:50 hours by car.
• Brescia . The city’s highlight is the San Salvatore – Santa Giulia complex. The former monastery at the outskirts of the town features a basilica, a museum, and cloisters. Another noteworthy attraction is the Brescia Castle . The fortification stands on Cidneo Hill and has a drawbridge and ramparts. You can reach Brescia from Milan in 40 minutes on average by train and in 1:25 hours by car.
• Padua . The University of Padua , established in 1222, still pulls a young crowd to the arcaded streets and chic cafés of the Old Town. Marvel at the frescoes by Giotto in the 14 th -century Scrovegni Chapel or explore the gigantic 13 th -century Basilica of St. Anthony . The Byzantine basilica contains prominent artworks and the saint’s tomb. You can reach Padua from Milan in 2:10 hours by train and in about 3:00 hours by car.
• Vicenza . The city attracts with its stylish 16 th -century buildings, designed by Andrea Palladio. Explore the Palladian Basilica , the Palazzo Chiericati , and the Teatro Olimpico . Then, visit the architect’s masterpiece, the hilltop Renaissance Villa La Rotonda . The UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts four staggering, symmetrical façades. The travel time between Milan and Vicenza is 1:50 hours by train and 2:25 hours by car.
• Pavia . Another city, known for its centuries-old university, Pavia charms with its museums and rich history. The University of Pavia , established in 1361, is worth traveling to for its History Museum and Botanical Garden . The museum’s collection features scientific and medical equipment, dating back to the Middle Ages. At the garden, the countless breath-taking roses and medicinal plants will enchant you. Don’t miss exploring Certosa di Pavia , a Renaissance monastery complex, too. The site features incredible sculptures and frescoes. You can reach Pavia from Milan within 25 minutes by train or 1:00 hour by car.
• Varese . The city is best-known for its Art Nouveau villas, surrounded by nature. Campo dei Fiori Natural Park on the outskirts of Varese hosts the 17 th -century Sacro Monte di Varese complex. The UNESCO World Heritage Site includes 15 chapels decorated with paintings and frescoes. The elegant Baroque Estense Palace in the city center attracts with its staggering landscaped gardens. And if you wish to enjoy a more active day, the Lake of Varese invites bikers to cycle its paths. The ride to Varese from Milan will take you approximately 1:00 hour by train or car.
• Ravenna . An unmatched vibe pours from the radiant mosaics that adorn the buildings in the center of Ravenna. The must-see structures include the Byzantine Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo , the octagonal Basilica di San Vitale , and the cross-shaped Mausoleo di Galla Placidia . Another notable attrition is the Gothic Mausoleo di Teodorico . The stone tomb with a monolith dome contains the remains of King Theodoric the Great. You can reach Ravenna from Milan within 2:40 hours by train and 3:15 hours by car.
• Piacenza . The city’s history spans over many centuries. This means you can see remains of the Roman Empire, as well as medieval and modern structures throughout Piacenza. The main attractions include several lavish palaces with fabulous gardens. Explore the 13 th -century Palazzo Comunale and the 16 th -century Palazzo Farnese for their intricate façades and incredible frescoes. In the central Piazza Cavalli , admire the astonishing Piacenza Cathedral and take a photo with the two gorgeous equestrian statues. You can reach Piacenza from Milan in 50 minutes by train and in 1:15 hours by car.
• Cremona . Since the 16 th century, Cremona has been an important musical instrument manufacturing center. The most popular are the violins of the Amati, Ruggeri, Guarneri, and Stradivari families. Due to their exceptional work, the violin craftsmanship of Cremona is included in the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage. At the Violin Museum, you can marvel at the striking Stradivarius collection. On Piazza del Comune , visit the Cremona Cathedral and the Torrazzo bell tower. An intricate astronomical clock adorns the tower. The travel time between Milan and Cremona is around 1:10 hours by train and 1:40 hours by car.

The Best Day Trips from Milan for High-speed Fans

Italy is world-renowned for manufacturing some of the best sports cars in the world. If you love a high-speed adrenaline kick, the following day trip ideas from Milan are perfect for you. However, remember that racing on the Italian Autostrade (highways) is never a good idea.

• Monza . The easiest and fastest day trip destination from Milan is the home of the legendary racetrack, Monza Circuit . Apart from it, the city also seduces with its frescoed Teodolinda Chapel and a 16th-century bell tower. The Neoclassical Royal Villa of Monza stands on the border of the extensive Monza Park and is also worth exploring. The travel time from Milan to Monza is only 15 minutes on average by train and 40 minutes by car.
• Maranello . The sleepy town near Modena is home to the world-famous Ferrari and its Formula 1 racing team, Scuderia Ferrari . Similar to Monza, Maranello is a must-visit day trip destination from Milan for all high-speed fans. You can even test drive a Ferrari 458 . If that’s too hair-raising for you, check out Museo Ferrari . It showcases trophies, photographs, and other objects, dedicated to the brand’s history. The highlight is the massive collection of Ferrari road and track cars. You can travel from Milan to Maranello in 2:30 hours by train or 2:25 hours by car.

There You Have it – the 33 Best Day Trips from Milan

Although there’s a ton of (free) things to do in Milan , you might want to explore outside the city’s limits.

Italy is full of great destinations, and these 33 day trips from Milan prove it.

Whether you’re a fan of race cars, delectable cuisine, historical places, or breath-taking nature, we’re sure you can fill your itinerary with a ton of exciting destinations.

Pick a few for your next visit, and don’t forget to have fun!

Now, tell us:

Which day trip are you going to make next time you’re in Milan?

Or maybe you’ve already explored some of the places on the list?

Either way, let us know in the comments below.

You Might Also Like

Where to stay in vienna – the 9 best areas for tourists, 33 budapest travel tips: how to best visit hungary’s capital, is sofia worth visiting: 33 reasons to explore the city, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Cookies Consent

Privacy overview.

Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Day Trips from Milan

15 Best Day Trips from Milan

Milan, Italy’s fashion capital, is resplendent with options for the visiting tourist.

With its chic high-end shops, myriad winding streets to explore, and plentiful beautiful buildings to admire, there is a lot to keep you occupied.

Don’t venture further afield before you’ve climbed up to view the city from the roof of Milan’s Duomo, sampled a rainbow of flavours from one of the many gelato vendors around the city, and of course, snatched a peek at Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper – after elbowing your way through all the crowds.

Only then can you think about exploring the best day trips from Milan :

1. Lake Como

Head to Italy’s third largest lake for the day, and experience a luxurious cruise around its waters.

You’ll admire the stunning alpine scenery from the bow of the boat, as well as getting the chance to take a sneak peek at the beautiful waterside properties on its shores.

Combine the lake visit with a tour around Como city at its southern tip, whose historic centre is sure to charm you.

Spend a relaxed couple of hours meandering through its pretty streets, and perhaps take a ride on its funicular, taking it all in before you return to the bustle of Milan.

2. St. Moritz, Switzerland

You might be surprised to learn that Switzerland is just a day trip away from Italy’s capital.

Hop on the Bernina Express from Tirano and you’ll be there in just two and a half hours.

The journey itself is worth it: this is the steepest rail journey in the world, ascending from 429 metres up to over 1800 in the Swiss mountains.

The stunning alpine scenery viewed from the train window will mean you won’t want to leave the train.

You’ll end up in the Swiss town of St. Moritz, one of Switzerland’s most famous mountain resorts.

There’ll be time enough to fully explore before you head back down the mountains on the train.

A visit to Bergamo is often combined with a trip to Lake Como, but it’s well worth a day of exploration in its own right.

With historic walls stretching for five kilometres to encircle the old town, and plentiful medieval architecture to look at, it holds significant intrigue for tourists wanting a pretty place to spend the day.

Ride the funicular from the bottom to the top of the town, and take a look at Bergamo’s significant monuments, such as the St. Maria Maggiore Cathedral and the Colleoni Chapel.

Finally don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate Bergamo’s incredible surrounds, with hills stretching for miles, all the way down to distant Lake Como.

4. Franciacorta

The Franciacorta region offers some spectacular, award winning wines for you to sample, in amongst splendid Italian scenery.

Get the chance to meet the wine producers themselves, and ask questions about the process of wine making, and what makes their particular brand so delicious.

The boutique wineries of Franciacorta really do offer something special.

And of course, what would a visit to Milan be without setting aside time for shopping? The Franciacorta design outlet has plenty of bargains to offer a savvy shopper, so make sure to get your hands on the goods here.

What could be better than taking a trip to one of Italy’s most prized romantic cities, waterway-crossed Venice? Though it’s hard to fit all of Venice’s delights into just one day, you can certainly try.

Wander its cool, cobbled streets, have a coffee in the famous Piazza San Marco, and perhaps stretch to riding a gondola through the canals for a truly luxury experience.

You’ll no doubt be suitably charmed by the sparkling lagoon and fantastic architecture that characterises one of Italy’s most popular cities for tourists.

If you still have time, head over to one of Venice’s nearby islands, such as Murano with its famous glass-blowing traditions, and perhaps purchase a trinket to take back home.

6. Cinque Terre

The picture-perfect Cinque Terre is a brilliant place to visit, especially for those who might want to get that perfect Instagram shot.

With layer upon layer of rainbow-hued houses perched upon hillsides, the five villages of Cinque Terre are sure to surprise and delight visitors.

Keep your camera out for this visit: you certainly won’t regret it.

These UNESCO World-Heritage listed lands are certainly one of the most picturesque sights in all of Italy.

You likely won’t have time to explore all five, but there’ll be time enough to wander round Monterosso al Mare and Vernazza, grab an ice cream and watch the fishermen at work.

Pure bliss.

7. Lugano and Bellagio

Often referred to as the ‘pearl of Lake Como’, it’s easy to see why Bellagio merits a spot on the list of best day trips from Milan.

Simply sit back and enjoy the ambience of this wonderful city, sampling its best food and drinks.

Afterward, head over the border to Lugano, and enjoy the fabulous scenic delights of the Swiss Alps along the way.

This is your chance to sample world-renowned Swiss chocolate, and perhaps buy some as a souvenir for friends and family back home.

Or keep it to yourself…

8. Lake Maggiore & the Borromean Islands

Lake Maggiore and its cluster of pretty islands is certainly worth a day away from Milan.

Grab a hop-on, hop-off ferry pass and spend the day jumping from island to island across the sparkling water.

Start from Stresa, on the shore, and make your way slowly to Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori to check out their individual charms.

With the sun in the sky there could hardly be a more tranquil way to spend some time on your Italian holiday.

Be sure to take a look at the Palace Museum and Gardens on Isola Madre, and spend some time browsing for souvenirs on Isola dei Pescatori.

9. Lake Garda

You could hardly take a trip to Italy without paying a visit to its largest and most famous lake, Lake Garda.

Travel by train through the beautiful Lombard countryside to reach it, and enjoy its Mediterranean climate on arrival.

You’ll be able to spend some time out on the water on a quick cruise, as well as travelling to the gorgeous lakeside towns of Sirmione and Desenzano.

The ‘pearl’ of the lake, Sirmione has much to offer tourists: a fortress, a Roman villa, and the Catullo caves.

The port of Desenzano also has a spectacular medieval castle.

Shakespeare’s fair Verona certainly merits an excursion – and it is surely just as pretty as he described.

Follow in the footsteps of the world’s most famous lovers, Romeo and Juliet, through the streets immortalised in his play.

You’ll get the chance to see the very balcony from which Juliet wondered ‘wherefore art thou Romeo?’

Beyond Shakespeare, Verona has other strings to its bow.

Check out the fantastic Roman amphitheatre, built in the first century AD, or head downtown to take a look at the Piazza Mercato.

11. Genova and Portofino

This day trip away from the busy city sees you explore the gorgeous Ligurian coast.

Genova, Italy’s largest port, holds much delight for tourists, with many important monuments and an old town which has in part been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

While you’re exploring the coastline, move further along to spend some time in the colourful village of Portofino and its neighbour Santa Margherita Ligure.

Take in the picturesque sight of fishing boats bobbing along the water, and breathe deeply in the salty air, before you head back city-wards.

12. Interlaken & the Swiss Alps

Who’d have thought that just a few hours’ journey from Milan lay the glorious Alpine scenery of Interlaken? After a journey on the ‘Green Train of the Alps’ you’ll find yourself in a different world from the busy city: mountain lakes and lofty peaks and gorgeous green countryside.

Interlaken is a great place simply to get lost, but if that’s not tempting enough for you, how about a sample of that famous Swiss chocolate?

13. Maranello Ferrari tour

One of Italy’s most well-known and well-loved appeals is the Ferrari brand.

If high-speed cars zipping round race tracks is your thing, this day trip will certainly be high up on your list.

Spend the day immersing yourself in all things Ferrari, with a trip to Maranello.

Check out the test track where factory-fresh cars are put through their paces, learn more about the brand and its history in the Museo Ferrari, and glory in the exhibits of old-style cars in the gallery.

For more Formula 1 fun, head to the Museo Casa Enzo Ferrari to learn about its 40-year history.

14. Florence

Beautiful Florence is certainly a must visit on an Italy adventure.

It’s a brilliant place just to spend a few hours wandering round, but it also has a whole host of important cultural attractions, such as the famous Uffizi art gallery and the impressive Duomo offering panoramic city views from the top.

Make sure you check out the Ponte Vecchio, where the Medici family once trod, and the jewellers who set up shop along its length.

Italy’s first capital, Turin, is of course most famous for its shroud depicting the face of Jesus.

However, there’s a lot more to it than a length of cloth.

During your visit you should certainly make time for the baroque church of San Lorenzo and the cathedral, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.

Even just strolling along Turin’s tree-lined boulevards is a highly enjoyable way to spend your day, or sitting back to relax in one of its many cafes.

15 Best Day Trips from Milan:

• St. Moritz, Switzerland
• Franciacorta
• Cinque Terre
• Lugano and Bellagio
• Lake Maggiore & the Borromean Islands
• Genova and Portofino
• Interlaken & the Swiss Alps
• Maranello Ferrari tour

An Italian Mama's Guide to Italy

12 weekend trips and day trips from Milan you will love

Great weekend trips and day trips from Milan, for a relaxing getaway in some of the most beautiful destinations in northern Italy.

Milan is a wonderful base to discover the north of Italy . Close to lake, mountains and pretty cities, Milan is well connected to the rest of Italy by roads and trains.

These are some of the best day trips from Milan you can take on your own or by private tours and some weekend getaway ideas for Milan, for when you feel like a proper break from the city.

This is our round up of the best day trip and day tours from Milan.

Trip idea: combine one day in Milan and a day trip to one of the destinations below for a fantastic long weekend!

Please note: this post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase, we might make a small commission.

Day trips from Milan Map – our top picks

Our favorite day trips from Milan, Italy

Lake como – the most popular day trip from milan.

Lake Como is the most popular day trip from Milan for locals and visitors alike.

Nestled at the bottom of the Italian Alps, the lake has the shape of an upside-down Y, with its arms framed by beautiful mountain peaks.

Lake Como appears in the incipit of the famous Italian novel ‘The Bethroted’, which opens with the dreamy description of the Southern arm of the lake, and it is easy to see why this place has such an important role in Italian literature.

This place is simply idyllic. Whether you are here for boating, strolling along the lakes or visiting villas, it is hard to resist its charm.

Famous locations along the lake are glamorous Bellagio and Varenna, regularly featuring among the best day trips from Milan and Como itself, which is a pretty town with a relaxing city center and promenade.

In the good season, it is possible to enjoy lake Como from the water too, joining a lake cruise , swimming, or trying out watersports such as kayaking , SUPping and canoeing.

Tip for families with kids : do not miss ‘Jungle raider park’ in Bellagio, a fun adventure park for kids of all ages!

You can get to Lake Como by car or train or join an organized tour like the following:

Lake Como, Bellagio and Varenna day tour from Milan

Lake Como and Bellagio Day trip from Milan

Day trip from Milan to Lake Como, including a visit to Bellagio and Lugano , in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland.

Lake Maggiore – great day trip from Milan in spring and summer

To the West of Lake Como and a short drive to the North West of Milan lies stunning Lake Maggiore (Lago Maggiore), one of the most beautiful lakes in northern Italy .

Glamorous, elegant and plain beautiful, Lake Maggiore is a great day trip from Milan if you like architecture and enjoy strolling around elegant gardens overlooking a placid lake scenery.

The places to see here are pretty Stresa, the impressive Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso (museum and terraces) and the Borromean islands , in particular Isola Bella, about which Dickens said ‘For however fanciful and fantastic the Isola Bella may be, and is, it still is beautiful’.

Tip for families with small kids : bring the kids to Parco Zoo di Villa Pallavicino and enjoy the beautiful gardens and wildlife park (flamingoes, foxes, alpacas, raccoons and more!) or treat them to a day at the local adventure park for an afternoon of guaranteed fun!

Stresa is about 1h by car from Milan. Once in the area, you can use the local hop on, hop off boat to explore islands and gardens at your leisure.

Bernina Express – best day trip from Milan for mountain lovers

If you love trains or mountains, then the best day trip from Milan for you is a trip on the Bernina Express!

The Bernina Express is a train serving the Bernina pass, a beautiful Alpine pass between Italy and Switzerland and holds the record for being the steepest railways in the world.

The train connects Tirano to St Moritz, in Switzerland, and is a great way to spend a day in this glamorous resort town. Organized day tours from Milan take the planning stress away: have a look at tickets and prices here .

Lake Garda is the biggest lake in Italy and a popular summer vacation destination for locals and tourists alike. People usually spend anything between a weekend and a week here however, you can also easily visit it from Milan for a day or an overnight stay (recommended).

From Milan, the easiest and best places to visit on Lake Garda to visit are Desenzano and Sirmione , where you have the stunning Castello Scaligero, Aquaria (thermal baths) and of course the lake itself with its beautiful shores.

The best way to visit Lake Garda from Milan is by car since this allows you to explore several town in one go.

Once you are in the area, a cool way to enjoy the lake is by joining a lake cruise or participating in a wine tour . If you can, stay the night to make the most of this wonderful area.

Verona -best weekend getaway from Milan for couples and history lovers

Verona is world famous and can be easily reached from Milan on a day trip or, better for a weekend getaway.

The city has a wonderful historical center, a stunning position along the river Adige and two main landmarks, that attract visitors from all over the world: the Roman amphitheater and the so called Juliet’s balcony.

Verona is easy to visit independently so if you don’t mind making your own way there, I would advocate allocating a couple of day for the visit and allowing yourself to get lost in its center and soak up the atmosphere.

The city center has enough attractions and shops to keep you busy for a couple of days or you can combine a visit to Verona with an extra stretch to the countryside around Verona, for instance joining a wine tour in the production area of Amarone wine.

Trains depart from Milan at regular intervals during the day (sometimes as often as 3 times per hour) and take between 1 and 2 hours to reach Verona.

Bergamo – great day trip from Milan for UNESCO site lovers

Lovely Bergamo is one of the easiest and most pleasant day trips from Milan if you love charming old towns, beautiful architecture and sweeping views.

Bergamo develops at the bottom and a top of a hill: the lowest part of town is Bergamo Bassa (bassa=low) and the one on top is Bergamo alta (alta=high), the ancient part of the city, still surrounded by Bastions now UNESCO World Heritage.

The city is medieval in architecture and a delight to discover on foot. Piazza Vecchia and Piazza Duomo are among the most beautiful corners of the city but the best way to explore Bergamo is to allow yourself to get lost and let its medieval street take you.

If you prefer a guided tour, have a look a this private guided our of the old city and this fun Bergamo food tour , perfect for foodies!

Regular trains connect Milano Centrale to Bergamo in about 50 minutes.

Genoa – fantastic day trip from Milan to the coast by train

Genoa is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy and one that is easy to visit from Milan.

Good train connections allow you to reach Genoa city center in less than two hours and, from there, you can easily visit the main Geona attraction on foot.

There are two main areas worth visiting in Genoa: the historical city center, which is right outside the main station, and the Old Port, a short stroll downhill from the town center. Both can easily be visited in one day, but you need an itinerary as there are a good few attractions you don’t want to miss. Find our recommended one-day Genoa Itinerary here.

Tip for families with kids : The area of the Old Port is a paradise for small kids. It is home to a children’s museum, a pirate ship, a submarine, a panoramic lift and one of the biggest Aquariums in Europe, all in the same place! You can find our tips for visiting Genoa with kids here.

Weekend trip from Milan to Cinque Terre

If you have a couple of days and are looking for a weekend getaway from Milan on the coast, then you should do to Cinque Terre, one of the most beautiful places in the whole of Italy.

Cinque Terre are a series of 5 villages , perched on vertical cliffs plunging into the sea. They are famous for their scenic and colorful villages and they can easily be visited from Milan by train.

Getting there takes a bit of effort since there i snot direct train, but once you are there, moving around is easy and the views worth it.

Stay the night to have the time to train hop between all of them, hit the trails and admire the sunset from pretty Vernazza – unforgettable!

If you don’t have a weekend, you can also visit the area by joining a day tour from Milan such as this one : it is worth it but it is a long day, so be prepared for staying out morning to evening.

Top tip for families with kids : Cinque Terre are not easy to visit with a stroller. If you are planning on visiting with small kids or toddlers, first read our guide to Cinque Terre with kids .

Bologna – city day trip from Milan by train

International tourism mostly ignores gorgeous Bologna but ask any Italian and they are likely to launch in extensive praise for this city.

Home to the oldest university in Europe and famous for giving the world the sauce visitors call ‘Bolognese’, Bologna is a delight to visit and a very easy day trip from Milan.

The two cities are connected by the high-speed train Italo and it takes a little over an hour to get from one to the other.

The train leaves you in the center of the city and you can easily discover Bologna on foot. Not to be missed here are the city’s main landmarks such as Piazza Maggiore, San Petronio and Torre degli Asinelli, and of course, the city’s legendary food, which you can get to know by joining a traditional food tour such as this one .

Parma – the best day trip from Milan for foodies

Parma is mostly known abroad for its food, namely Parmesan and ham, and indeed if you are into food and produce, there is hardly a better place to be than this quaint and cute Italian town.

However, there is more to Parma than just restaurants and cellars: the city is home to an old University, has beautiful churches and gardens and is home to composer Giuseppe Verdi, still celebrated in Parma opera house, worth visiting.

Parma is easy to enjoy on your own but to tap into the culinary tradition of the city, there is no better way than by joining a traditional food tour such as this one . If you have a couple of days, you can also join a factory tour, perfect if you love parma ham and parmesan in particular.

Top Tip for families with kids : Parma has a child friendly side. Discover what to do in Parma with kids in this guide!

Pavia – historical university town

Pavia is a university town along the river Ticino, less than an hour South of Milan.

The city was the capital of the Longobard kingdom between 572 to 774 and is home to thee second most ancient university in Italy after Bologna.

This long history means that Pavia still retains a lot of interesting and beautiful medieval sights (the duomo, the Basilica di San Michele and the city’s ancient towers are just some examples) and mixes them with a cool, university town type of vibe.

Just outside the city also lies the Certosa di Pavia, famous for being a beautiful example of Italian Reinassance architecture.

Pavia can be easily reached from Milan with a 40-minute drive or you can check out this day tour from Milan that also allows to you visit the Certosa and the Oltrepo Pavese countryside

Turin – an elegant city with Umbertine charm

Turin is very different from other Italian towns and has a distinctive Northern charm heavily influenced by nearby France.

The city has a quiet, elegant atmosphere and has impressive buildings in Umbertine architecture, churches and museums. I personally love it and find it an unmissable city, even a hidden gem!

Some non to miss spots in Turin are la Mole Antonelliana, towering above the city, Palazzo del Valentino and the famous Turin Duomo.

As well as impressive sights, Turin is also a city of indulgence and a trip here wouldn’t be complete without some foodie stops.

Turin is famous for chocolate, meat and truffle and not many realize it is also the birthplace of Italian aperitivo ! When visiting, make sure you have enough time for this early evening tradition.

To make the most of your time in Turin, you can consider the city’s hop-on hop-off bus tour or you can join a historical walking tour and learn about Turin as first capital of Italy.

Top tip for families with kids : the Egyptian museums of Turin is world-famous and very impressive for kids, with mummies and papyrus. If your kids love cars, they will love to know Turin, home of Fiat, has an automobile museum which you can visit at a discounted rate when buying the hop-on, hop-off bus tour

I hope you enjoyed this selection of day trips from Milan. Safe travels!

12 fantastic short trips from Milan – Pin this!

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is an Italian mama of two. Born and raised in Rome, Marta has a passion for travel and especially enjoys showing off Italy to her kids, who are growing up to love it as much as she does! A classics graduate, teacher of Italian as a second language and family travel blogger, Marta launched Mama Loves Italy as a way to inspire, support and help curious visitors to make the most of a trip to Italy and learn about Italian culture on the way.

You May Also Like

Sesto-Sexten Italy with kids: why you’ll love it for your next vacation on the Dolomites with family

The best places to stay in Venice: Venice neighborhoods and hotels you’ll love

One day in Cortona: best things to see and do

Privacy overview.

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Day Trips from Milan

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on May 17, 2024

Whether you’re fascinated by fashion, visiting on business or just enthralled with Italian culture, Milan is a fantastic home base for all kinds of getaways. You will love that the city is home to world-class museums, breathtakingly beautiful churches and vibrant central plazas.

For those interested in the modern culture, there is no end to incredible eateries serving up Milanese specialties, and the nightlife is some of the best in all of Italy. As your base in Northern Italy, you will be in a prime position to set off on day trips from Milan to each of the following destinations.

Famous for being the setting of William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona is a very romantic city to stroll around, with a much more relaxed feel to it than nearby Venice. At the heart of the city lies the delightful Piazza delle Erbe; here you can find its well-preserved Roman amphitheater, and Juliet’s House is just a stone’s throw away.

Lots of lovely old churches are scattered around the city, and among Verona’s many highlights are its splendid cathedral and the red brick Castelvecchio, which is home to a brilliant art museum. For a fantastic view over the city, make sure to head to Castel San Pietro, which is located on a hillside overlooking Verona with the river Adige flowing below it.

Getting to Verona

• From Milano Centrale, it only takes an hour and 15 minutes to get to Verona Porta Nouva railway station. Trains run between the two cities every half hour. Once you arrive, you can either take a short bus journey to Piazza delle Erbe or walk 20 minutes to get there.
• If you don’t fancy driving yourself and also want to see Lake Garda, you may want to consider taking a guided tour that combines a visit to the lake with a sightseeing tour around Verona. You’ll learn all about the history of Verona as you wander around the city. The scenery and sights at Lake Garda are equally impressive to behold.

Lying directly to the east of Milan, the city of canals needs no introduction. Indeed, Venice is a must-see city, and while crossing its numerous bridges or taking a gondola ride along its canals, you’ll be greeted with stunning architecture everywhere you look, with almost every building dating back centuries.

A magical place to explore, Venice has much more to offer than just the Doge’s Palace, the Rialto Bridge, and Saint Mark’s Basilica; getting lost amongst its narrow alleys is a lovely way to see the city. While Venice certainly can feel crowded, especially around the main sights , it is a sprawling place, so you’ll certainly get a feel for its authentic side if you stray off the beaten path. Its surrounding islands and delightful Lido are well worth a visit too.

Getting to Venice

• By train, it takes roughly two and a half hours to get to Venice from Milan, and direct trains depart from Milano Centrale every half hour. From the Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia, you can either amble through the Venetian streets taking in the beautiful architecture or take a vaporetto (a water bus) along the Grand Canal to get to incredible sights like Piazza San Marco and the Rialto Bridge.
• To really make the most of your time in Venice, it is well worth taking a guided tour from Milan to the city of canals. This will take you around all the main sights, including Il Fenice opera house, the Bridge of Sighs, and of course, Piazza San Marco. With a gondola ride, a visit to a glass-making workshop, and an informative and interesting walking tour included, it is a fantastic day out that covers as much of Venice as possible. See prices

Home to the Italian royal family, Turin is perhaps not as famous as many other Italian cities but the setting is pleasant with the Italian Alps visible in the distance. You should visit the former royal residence called the Palazzo Madama, and tour the opulent rooms filled with Baroque furniture, gold details and lush tapestries.

Dine at one of the upscale eateries located in the Piazza Carignano, and then head to the many bars and lounges located next to the banks of the River Po. If you want to do some souvenir shopping, but can’t afford the upscale boutique prices, then swing by the Porta Palazzo street market instead.

Getting to Turin

• With regular trains running to Turin from Milan, visitors wishing to see the fabulous city can find themselves strolling peacefully along the banks of the river Po around an hour after leaving Milano Centrale. Simply hop on a train and alight at Torino Porta Nouva railway station, which is conveniently located not far away from many of the city’s most famous sights.

In just a short time, you can travel to Pavia, making it an ideal day trip from Milan. Once you’re in Pavia, you’ll be able to take things slow, soaking in the medieval and Renaissance architecture as well as the vibrant outdoor markets.

A highlight of any visit to Pavia is a walk across the Ponte Coperto, a stunning bridge that provides you with great views, and equally great photo ops, of the city. Then, make your way to historic landmarks like the Basilica San Michele Maggiore, the Duomo Di Pavia and the Basilica di San Pietro in Ciel d’Oro, three incredibly important religious structures in the heart of the city. Right outside the city of Pavia, you’ll want to check out the Certosa di Pavia, a 14th century abbey that also serves as one of the most notable buildings from the Italian Renaissance.

Getting to Pavia

• Lying just 40 kilometers to the south of Milan, Pavia is simple to get to by train; the journey should only take you half-an-hour from Milano Centrale. Once you alight in Pavia, the fantastic Duomo and beautiful basilica are just a short walk away through the picturesque town.

6. Lake Maggiore

To the northwest of Milan is Lake Maggiore, a body of water that also happens to be the longest of the Italian lakes. This is one of the most relaxing, scenic and attractive spots in the region, and the size of the lake means there is no shortage of coastal paths, restaurants overlooking the water or beautiful views to choose from.

Hop on a ferry that traverses the lake for a unique perspective on the landscape, or admire the gorgeous gardens of the Villa Taranto. If possible, spend some time in the many weekly markets of Lake Maggiore, where you can shop for souvenirs as well as tasty fresh produce and homemade culinary delights.

Getting to Lake Maggiore

• By public transport, Lake Maggiore is only around an hour to an hour and a half train journey away. This will take you to Stresa, which acts as a gateway to the rest of the lovely little towns that litter the shores of the lake – and, of course, the beautiful Borromean Islands.
• Another option is to take a guided tour; this really is one of the best ways to see all Lake Maggiore’s amazing sights. You’ll learn all about the area’s fascinating history as you explore Stresa and the Borromean Islands. One of the highlights of the tour is taking a two-hour scenic cruise around the lake. See prices

5. Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre translates to Five Lands, and it is made up of five smaller coastal villages on the Ligurian Sea. If you want to explore stunning scenery and hike on amazing trails overlooking the water, then there is no better day trip from Milan.

The paths are often steep, but the rewards are the often-secluded beaches, the traditional fishing villages and the amazing restaurants waiting for you in the towns of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso. Indulge post-hike with a refreshing swim in the sea or a meal of baked mussels in fresh herbs.

Getting to Cinque Terre

• While some direct trains do run to the picturesque villages of le Cinque Terre from Milan, the odds are that you’ll have to make one or even two changes to get there, stopping off in Genoa along the way. To get to Monterosso – the largest town along this beautiful stretch of coastline – takes three to four hours depending on the train you take. As such, it is a good idea to plan your journey well in advance. Regular trains connect the five villages, so once you’re there, it is relatively quick and easy to travel between them.
• To make the most of your time in le Cinque Terre, it is worth taking a guided tour. This means that you won’t waste any time navigating the Italian train system, and instead, maximize your time seeing both Manarola and Monterosso. With a 90-minute boat trip from Monterosso to La Spezia included, you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the Italian Riviera. See prices

Genoa is a port city with a rich history and a splendid historic center. Don’t miss world-renowned museums like the Museum of Fine Arts in the White Palace, the historical picture gallery housed in the Palazzo Reale, the Museum at the Prince’s Palace or the Ligurian Archeological Museum. You can also see the former home of famed explorer Christopher Columbus, and you won’t want to miss a stroll along the Corso Italia, or the main pedestrian promenade of Genoa.

Foodies will want to try local foods popular in the region, such as pesto, which originated in Genoa , or focaccia, a bread that can be flavored simply with olive oil and salt or as a full meal with ham, cheese and sliced tomatoes.

Getting to Genoa

• Lying almost directly south of Milan, Genoa is an hour and a half to two hours away by train, so in no time at all, you’ll find yourself with the Mediterranean before you. Just hop on a train at Milano Centrale and enjoy the scenic train journey through the Italian countryside.
• Many visitors wishing to see Genoa opt to take a guided tour. These not only take you around the port city, but also to the charming Santa Margherita Ligure and pretty Portofino. With a knowledgeable guide accompanying you, you’ll learn a lot about the Italian Riviera, and a lovely boat trip between the towns enables you to bask in the beautiful scenery. See prices

Just 90 km (55 miles) north of Milan is Bergamo, a smaller city that rests at the foothills of the Alps. As such, Bergamo is a scenic town, as well as a must-see spot for lovers of architecture. Bergamo is essentially two distinct cities: the Città Alta, or upper city, is encircled by walls from the 16th century, and the Città Bassa, or lower city, is decidedly modern.

Most visitors will want to spend time in the Città Alta, home to the Piazza Vecchia, or the heart of the city where architecture dates back to the medieval and renaissance periods. For the best views of the city without a hike, ride the funicular up to the Città Alta, where you’ll be treated to mountain scenery and unparalleled vistas.

Getting to Bergamo

• An hour away by train, Bergamo is very easy to get to; a direct train leaves from Milano Porta Garibaldi once every hour. While many of its main sights are just a stone’s throw away from the station, the Citta Alta is a 20-minute steep walk or short funicular ride away.

Thanks to the convenient location of Milan, day-trippers can even head over the border into Switzerland. The Swiss city of Lugano is the only Italian-speaking canton in the country. The lakeside destination is beautiful, and the abundance of palm trees and blue sparkling water gives it an almost tropical atmosphere right at the base of the Alps.

In Lugano, you can ride the Monte San Salvatore funicular to take in beautiful views, or you can stay closer to the water and swim at one of the beaches on the lake. Hiking and mountain biking are also popular pastimes, with the trails of Mount Brè being ideal for both recreational activities.

Getting to Lugano

• To get to Lugano by train is very simple and only takes an hour and 15 minutes from Milano Centrale. Trains depart frequently, and once you arrive at Lugano, you’ll find that the beautiful lake is just a short walk away – although you may have to take a bus to get to the starting point of some of the lovely mountain hikes. Make sure to pack your passport, however, as you’ll be crossing over the border into Switzerland.
• If you’re pressed for time and want to visit both Lugano and Lake Como in one day, it is a good idea to take a guided tour that combines both of them into one unforgettable trip. Cruising around on Lake Como is a lovely way to see the luxurious lakeside villas and stunning scenery, while stops at Bellagio and Lugano are equally memorable for the amazing sights they offer. See prices

1. Lake Como

Boasting mountain views, crisp air and blue waters, it is easy to see why Lake Como is the epitome of Italian scenic beauty. Thousands of visitors from around the world flock to Lake Como, making it a playground for celebrities and tycoons alike.

The lake itself is a major attraction, with many people choosing to spend their days sipping cocktails or tanning on yachts moored in the water. You could also spend your day trip in Lake Como touring Villa Carlotta, hiking one of the trails along the banks of the lake, riding the hillside trolley for spectacular views over the water or tasting gelato in the town of Como.

Getting to Lake Como

• By public transport, it takes about 40 minutes to get to Lake Como from Milan. Simply hop on a train at Milano Centrale; in no time at all, you’ll find yourself at Como San Giovanni station with Lake Como lying enticingly before you..
• A guided tour will take you to many of the most beautiful spots around the lake without you having to worry about public transport or parking the car. With visits to elegant lakeside villas and delightful churches included, alongside a scenic cruise on the lake itself, a tour is a great way to see as many sides to Lake Como as is possible in just one day. See prices

Map of day trips from Milan

Share this post:

23 Top Tourist Attractions in Milan

14 Best Places to Visit in Lombardy, Italy

10 Top Destinations in Northern Italy

Where to Stay in Milan: 8 Best Neighborhoods

14 Amazing Things to do in Capri, Italy

9 Best Day Trips from Naples

14 Best Things to do in Bari, Italy

12 Best Places to Visit in Calabria, Italy

14 Best Things to do in Positano, Italy

17 Best Things to do in Lecce, Italy

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

16 of the Best Day Trips From Milan in Winter

Looking for the best day trips from Milan in winter? You’ve come to the right place!

Lombardy ‘s capital has much to offer travelers in the colder season, including fascinating surrounding cities, towns, lakes, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, so let’s get started with these amazing day trips!

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Quick suggestions for your trip to Milan: Highly-rated day tours from Milan (available in winter): 1. Lake Como day tour or a wintertime Lake Como tour (one of the most popular choices) 2. Lake Garda and Verona day tour (with a visit to Sirmione, The Pearl of Lake Garda) 3. St. Moritz (Switzerland) day tour with a ride on the Bernina Express train

Highly-rated accommodations in Milan: 1. Cà Bèla – Porta Romana (where I stayed) 2. Missori Suites (only a 5-minute walk from the Duomo) 3. Porta 92 Romana (only 2 Metro stops away from the Duomo) 4. Brera Prestige B&B (in the beautiful Brera district near the Sforza Castle)

Top Milan attractions: 1. Duomo di Milano: a cathedral & rooftop ticket or a full pass . 2. Da Vinci’s Last Supper guided tour .

Table of Contents

Taking Day Trips From Milan in Winter

Some destinations can be visited with a guided tour, but most of the places on this list are easily reachable by train from Milano Centrale, one of the main train stations in Italy, or from the stations of Milano Cadorna and Milano Porta Garibaldi.

Be sure to book your ticket in advance to save time (and reserve your seat, depending on the train and ticket you’re choosing). I personally love using Omio for that as it compares bus and train prices in one place.

Places to Visit Near Milan in Winter (+Map)

See  here  the map of some of the best cities and towns to visit near Milan in winter.

Tip: After accessing the map, you can also open it on your Google Maps app. Simply open your app, tap the ‘saved’ icon at the bottom, scroll down and tap the ‘maps’ icon, and choose the MyMaps map you want to see (you can do the same on your computer).

Lake Como, Lombardy

By Megan from Megan & Aram

Situated just an hour’s train ride from Milan, a  day trip to Lake Como in the winter  offers stunning scenery and a breath of fresh air without the crowds of summer.

From the end of November to early January, check out Como’s lovely traditional Christmas market in Piazza Cavour, go ice skating, and enjoy the brilliantly lit Christmas tree in Piazza Duomo.

Don’t miss the “Citta dei Balocchi,” a fun festival that’s been running for the past thirty years, offering tons of events, markets, decorations, and festive activities across the towns of Como and Cernobbio.

If you’re keen to be outdoors, don’t miss walking the Lake Como Greenway, a 6-mile (10km) walk that passes through some of the lakeside villages and past monuments, offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding snow-covered landscape.

Another option is to take a private boat tour, which allows you to get out on the water as well as visit several of the villages. If you’re into skiing, head up to Piani di Bobbio for some amazing ski trails.

Lastly, warm up with a traditional meal from the area, such as  pizzoccheri , buckwheat pasta, or  missoltino , a sun-dried fish.

Book your train ticket from Milan to Como in advance or opt for a guided Lake Como day tour or a wintertime Lake Como tour !

Verona, Veneto

By Martina & Jürgen from PlacesofJuma

A wonderful recommendation for a day trip from Milan in winter is a visit to Verona. This city is truly easy to fall in love with and delights with historical charm and a captivating atmosphere.

There are so many amazing  things to do in Verona . This Italian city, known for its Shakespearean heritage as the setting for Romeo and Juliet, unleashes a unique romantic charm during the winter months.

At this time, there are slightly fewer tourists than usual, and you get to see the old town at its best. Remember to pack warm clothes and comfortable shoes for your exploration in wintertime.

As you stroll through the cobblestone streets adorned with twinkling lights, you’ll discover many layers of history in the city’s well-preserved architecture.

Verona’s ancient Roman amphitheater, the Arena, is a testament to the past and offers a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage. It is decorated every year for Christmas, and the giant poinsettia conjures up a unique ambiance. 

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the picturesque Piazza delle Erbe, where a lively market takes place even in winter. Be sure to visit the House of Juliet, a pilgrimage site for romantics, with the iconic balcony where Juliet is said to have serenaded.

Getting to Verona from Milan is a breeze, as frequent train services connect the two cities in just 1:15 hours. In addition, guided tours are also available.

Purchase your train ticket from Milan to Verona in advance or book a guided Verona & Lake Garda day tour !

LAKE GARDA, LOMBARDY & VENETO

By Alice from  Adventures of Alice

Lake Garda is a beautiful destination in Italy to visit all year round, but it’s exceptionally special in the winter months.

During this time of year, Northern Italy has a surprisingly warm (metaphorically) atmosphere, with entertaining Christmas markets, an abundance of hot chocolate and mulled wine, and cozy vibes in most hotels, apartments, and restaurants.

Winter is a great time to visit Lake Garda for fairs and festivities. The Christmas season makes it truly special, with events taking over the small towns.

Particularly in  Sirmione , you can see the gorgeous Scaligero Castle lit up with twinkling fairy lights and skate on the annual ice rink.

If you’re traveling to the Italian lakes as a family, don’t forget to take a trip to Gardaland, where you’ll find plenty of rides and attractions dressed up in their Christmas gear. 

The food here also takes on a festive twist in the winter months, and you’ll find plenty of hot chocolate and warm soups to keep you toasty.

Lastly, Lake Garda in winter is also the perfect spot to hit the slopes. The nearby Monte Baldo will allow you to test your skiing or snowboarding abilities.

There’s also a slope for beginners, so you don’t need to be an expert to try your hand at winter sports.

Purchase your train ticket from Milan to Lake Garda in advance or book a guided Verona & Lake Garda day tour !

Tirano, Lombardy

By Kenny from Knycx Journeying

Italy is one of the most  famous countries to visit  because of its history, classical art, food and fashion. In fact, the country also has breathtaking natural sceneries, like in north Lombardy adjacent to the Alps, bordering Switzerland.

Tirano is a small town in Valtallina, about 166 kilometers away from central Milan; it takes about 3 hours to get there from Milan, but it’s totally worth visiting.

Tirano is home to many impressive attractions and outdoor experiences for worldwide tourists.

In winter, Tirano is located close to a number of ski resorts in the Alps. The old town is also very easy to explore on foot. Check out the architecture on the cobbled road and tranquil river, and the Catholic shine of the Madonna di Tirano is also a highlight in the area.

The train ride from Milan to Tirano itself is a scenic journey because the train runs along the famous Lake Como, a well-known resort area at the foothills of the Alps.

Tirano is also famous for being the starting and arrival point of the popular scenic train Bernina Express, operating all year round and connecting with Chur in Switzerland.

Winter is a wonderful time to kick start or complete the train journey because passengers will be witnessing how the train makes its way through the steep and rugged terrain, passing over 196 bridges and 55 tunnels in the snow.

Purchase your train ticket from Milan to Tirano in advance or book a guided tour to Tirano and St. Moritz (Switzerland) with a ride on the Bernina Express train !

Bologna, Emilia-Romagna

By Martha from May Cause Wanderlust

Bologna makes a great day trip from Milan because it’s easy to get to (a direct train takes just over an hour) but quite different. While Milan is a big, smart, fashionable city, Bologna is smaller, older, and arguably more charming.

You could visit Bologna year-round, but winter is a great time to go because it’s the kind of place that you’ll want to explore by foot, which is not always that pleasant to do in the baking heat.

For example, one of the  best things to do in Bologna  is to walk the Portico of San Luca, the world’s longest portico. It’s nearly 4km of handsome covered walkway, of which half is unrelenting uphill steps. You wouldn’t want to do that on a hot Italian day!

And that isn’t the only attractive portico in Bologna: the city center is full of these arched walkways: some simple, some ornate, and all painted in a harmonious palette of reds and yellows.

Whilst Bologna’s architecture is captivating, another big draw is the food. Bologna is in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, the region from which originates Parma ham, Parmigiano Reggiano, and Aceto Balsamico di Modena.

Taking a food tour is highly recommended: Delicious Bologna is a good option that includes food education and tastings.

And winter is the perfect time to try a Bolognese specialty. No, not Spaghetti Bolognese! Tortellini in broth is actually the quintessential pasta dish of Bologna.

Get your train ticket from Milan to Bologna in advance and book this highly-rated food tour !

Venice, Veneto

By Lavina from Continent Hop

Venice is a fantastic travel option for a day trip from Milan. The two cities are just two and a half hours away, and you can take direct trains from Milan’s central train stations. 

If you are staying in Milan, a  2-day Milan itinerary  will help you plan your trip better. If you wish to explore more of Italy when in Milan, a Venice day trip is the perfect option. 

You can stroll across the iconic City of Bridges on foot or use the public Vaporetto system or private water taxis. The experience is truly unique.

Winter in Venice is romantic, as the city is less crowded and cheaper. The weather is a bit cold, but you won’t mind it once the city mesmerizes you.

Teatro La Fenice is a must-visit and one of the most iconic opera houses in Italy. It’s been around for about three hundred years! An opera performance on a cold winter evening is the perfect way to stay warm.

Attend the Carnevale Di Venezia if you are visiting in February. This carnival is full of entertainment, including masks, fancy balls, and period costumes. It takes place all across the city for two weeks in February.

Visit the Riatro Bridge and Doge’s Palace, which are immensely beautiful destinations, and head to Piazza San Marco, one of the most happening places in Venice. You can also take a city tour.

A special attraction in winter is the ‘Natale di Vetro’ (Christmas of Glass) on Murano Island, where you can witness a glass Christmas tree and other stunning glass decorations.

The Christmas markets of Venice are also worth visiting. You can shop for various handmade objects, glass ornaments, and lace decorations.

End your day trip while sipping a delicious cup of Venetian hot chocolate.

Book your train ticket from Milan to Venice in advance and take this highly-rated Venice walking tour !

Lugano, Switzerland

By Nicola from All About RosaLilla

Just an hour’s drive from Milan, Lugano in Switzerland is a stunning destination for a day trip to break up a colder month in the city.

Nestled on the northern shore of Lake Lugano, this tranquil area is sure to enchant anyone with its picturesque mountain peaks and cobblestoned streets.

Imagine wandering through the old-world charm of the city center, while the snow-covered Alps loom in the background. You could explore the area’s colorful Christmas markets and one-of-a-kind boutiques, or take in its rustic beauty with a stroll along the lakefront.

With plenty to do and see while enjoying the gorgeous winter weather,  one day in Lugano  is a perfect getaway for anyone looking for the ultimate Swiss winter experience.

Lugano at Christmas is what you would expect from a traditional Swiss city. They have a beautifully impressive Christmas tree in the main piazza and about 50 picturesque chalets lined up along the main squares and pedestrian streets.

The biggest Christmas celebrations are held at Piazza della Riforma, Piazza Manzoni, and Via Nassa, all of which are lined with market stalls selling one-of-a-kind handmade presents. You can discover a ton of ornaments, fluffy mittens, hats, and scarves that you can’t resist buying to keep you warm.

Local favorites, including bratwurst, pretzels, sausages, and potatoes au gratin, are available at several kiosks. The majority of stands will serve some mulled wine. The weather is mild at this time of year, making Lugano the perfect winter getaway.

You can also book train tickets from Milan to Lugano (only an hour and 18 minutes away)!

Florence, Tuscany

By Mal of Raw Mal Roams

Tucked in the heart of Tuscany in central Italy , a living testament to the Renaissance era, Florence is a fantastic city to visit during the winter months, and not just for art enthusiasts. 

Did you know that Florence was shortly the capital of Italy before Rome? Florence was also the birthplace of the iconic poet Dante and home to artists such as Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Brunelleschi.

Today, Florence is abundant in monuments and UNESCO treasures and a real treat for any traveler who can appreciate such a rich heritage. 

Why visit in winter? Well, you’ll find fewer tourists, much more affordable accommodation rates, and if you visit in December – festive lights and local Christmas markets that add a unique charm to the city. 

While you’re there, visit the stunning Uffizi Gallery, snap a photo at the picturesque Ponte Vecchio, and climb to the top of the awe-inspiring Duomo. If you’re a foodie, here are some of the best Florence food tours .

Getting to Florence is super easy – take one of the high-speed trains from Milan Central Station. The trip takes 1.5 to 2 hours, and you’ll get off in the city center at Florence Santa Maria Novella Station.

Stay at MyForte Relais de Charme, one of the best  Florence hotels with an indoor pool  and a fantastic spa, where you can pumper up after a day of sightseeing.

Get your train ticket from Milan to Florence in advance and book your Duomo ticket !

Be inspired by this Rome-Florence-Venice itinerary !

Parma, Emilia-Romagna

By Kate from Our Escape Clause

As the second-biggest city in Emilia-Romagna,  visiting Parma  offers much of the same appeal as its neighbor Bologna, though with a fraction of the crowds (something that is even more true in winter – this is an Italian city where you’ll have plenty of space to stretch out!).

The best things to do in Parma include visiting the remarkable 12th-century Duomo and Baptistery, exploring the impressive (all-wooden) Teatro Farnese, and checking out Teatro Regio, the city’s beautiful opera house.

Even more important than sightseeing in the historic center is that you take time when visiting Parma to eat!

As the origin of both Parmigiano-Reggiano and prosciutto di Parma, to say that Parma has delicious food is a bit of an understatement, and the region’s hearty meat dishes and cozy plates of pasta (including the popular pumpkin-stuffed Tortelli) shine in the cooler months.

One of the most popular things to do in Parma is to book a tour of a Parmigiano-Reggiano factory and a prosciutto di Parma factory (complete with tastings, of course) – the experience is unforgettable!

Thirteen direct trains run between Milan and Parma each day, and depending on the route you book, it takes an average of 1-2 hours to travel between the two cities.

Book your train ticket from Milan to Parma in advance!

Turin, Piedmont

Being the first capital of the unified Kingdom of Italy and the main seat of the House of Savoy, Turin is a royal city you don’t want to miss.

Located only an hour from Milan, it’s home to the Savoy family’s UNESCO-listed royal residences, a museum powerhouse, the birthplace of solid chocolate and the aperitivo tradition, and a fantastic place to immerse yourself in hearty Piedmontese food, especially in winter.

Some of the best places to visit in Turin include the Royal Palace, Palazzo Madama, Villa della Regina, the Egyptian Museum, and the National Museum of Cinema (housed in the iconic Mole Antonelliana building).

If it’s not too cold, you can also take a stroll through Valentino Park, home to the beautiful Medieval Village and Castello del Valentino.

If you’re visiting Turin in December , you can enjoy Christmas events, unique light installations, decorated shops, and maybe even some snow. 

Winter is also the perfect season to devour local risotto and pasta dishes (like risotto al Barolo and agnolotti ) and head to Turin’s historic cafes to savor a cup of Bicerin, a local hot drink made from coffee, chocolate, and milk.

Purchase your train ticket from Milan to Turin in advance and book this highly-rated Turin walking tour !

Read more about Turin:

• Reasons to visit Turin
• Turin chocolate guide
• Hidden gems in Turin
• Where to stay in Turin
• Turin travel tips
• Long weekend in Turin
• Aosta Valley road trip from Turin
• Places to visit in Piedmont

Bergamo, Lombardy

By Maria & Katerina of It’s All Trip To Me

Picturesque Bergamo in Northern Italy  is one of the best places to visit on a day trip from Milan in December .

The fourth-largest city in Lombardy, Bergamo is amazing any time of the year but particularly enchanting around the Christmas holidays when the medieval town sparkles with festive cheer.

Bergamo is split between the Upper and the Lower Town. The Upper Town is the old part of Bergamo, built in the heart of gorgeous rolling hills and encircled by dramatic UNESCO-listed walls. The Lower Town is the modern part of the city.

If you’re visiting Bergamo on a day trip, you’ll most probably want to spend your time in the Upper Town as this is the historic part of the city and where all the magic happens.

While in the Upper Town of Bergamo, you’ll be taken aback by the charm of Piazza Vecchia, the Old Square, and the impressive Duomo that’s only a few steps away.

Another thing not to miss in Bergamo is a ride on the city’s funicular that has been around since 1887.

The best way to get from Milan to Bergamo is by train. From Milan’s train station, the journey to Bergamo takes less than an hour.

Purchase your train ticket from Milan to Bergamo in advance!

Modena, Emilia-Romagna

By Margherita from The Crowded Planet

Modena is a wonderful day trip from Milan, especially for food enthusiasts.

This medium-sized city in Emilia-Romagna is the birthplace of balsamic vinegar, and you can also visit parmigiano factories, go wine tasting, and explore one of the most beautiful covered markets in Italy.

Winter is the best time to enjoy local food, which can be a bit heavy in the warm season with lots of pasta and meat-based dishes. There are plenty of restaurants offering traditional cuisine at far more affordable prices.

Two recommendations are Da Ermete, a lunch-only place with delicious fresh pasta, and Lo Stallo del Pomodoro, housed in a historic building and offering traditional dishes with a creative twist.

And if you’re not into food? There are many more  things to do in Modena  – it’s where Ferrari comes from, so you can visit two Ferrari museums and drive a supercar on a race track.

Alternatively, there’s a stunning UNESCO-listed cathedral, interesting museums, and the home of Pavarotti, one of the greatest opera singers of all time.

Getting to Modena from Milan is super easy by train. There are hourly departures, and travel time is between 1 hour and 20 to 2 hours, depending on whether you opt for a fast Frecciarossa or a slow Regionale train.

Get your train ticket from Milan to Modena in advance and book your Ferrari museum ticket !

Genoa, Liguria

By Soline from On the Road Diary

Located on the Italian Riviera coastline, Genoa’s warm Mediterranean climate and mild winters make it an ideal destination for a winter day trip.

Not only is there plenty to see and do during the colder months, but you’ll also enjoy some of the best cuisine and nightlife Italy has to offer.

It is easily reachable from Milan on a one-day trip. You can either take a direct train between the two cities that lasts 1 hour and a half or drive 2 hours.

Unlike  Cinque Terre , which is touristy all year round, Genoa’s streets won’t be too busy in winter. You will be able to enjoy its history and culture without the crowds.

You can walk around the magnificent Old Town district with its narrow alleyways and medieval buildings to the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza De Ferrari.

Then, head towards Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, D’Albertis Castle, and the Old Port of Genoa. However, the best way to visit Genoa is to get lost in its many alleys!

Get your train ticket from Milan to Genoa in advance and book this highly-rated food tour !

Ascona, Switzerland

By Zoe from Together In Switzerland

For a Milan day trip destination in winter, consider your next trip to the Ticino canton of Switzerland, specifically Ascona. Located South of the Alps, Ascona is next to Lake Maggiore, with the most picturesque views of the local mountains.

Ascona is reachable by train from Milan, such as with the RE80 or EC train into Switzerland, and then change to a local train or public bus. Alternatively, driving from Milan to Ascona takes only 1 hour 40 minutes without traffic. 

During winter in Ticino, Ascona is very cozy, with local restaurants providing heaters and blankets, as well as sparkling lights hung up through the trees.

Find a restaurant along the promenade for the best lake views in winter. For a specific restaurant tip, check Piazza Ascona! 

Don’t expect much snow in Ascona during winter, as it can be rather sunny with its Mediterranean charm.

However, there are local mountains with hiking and snow sledding options, most topped with a sprinkle of snow from mid-December onwards. For example, Cimetta is a great place to ski.

Alternatively, head up the Locarno chairlifts for a warm bombardino or gluhwein to drink!

For those wanting to relax, visit a local spa, such as  the Termali Spa . They have some amazing massage and relaxation packages, where you can also book a private room with a balcony, hot tub, and sauna access.

Get your train ticket from Milan to Locarno (from where you can take a short bus ride to Ascona) in advance!

Crespi D’Adda, Lombardy

By Michael from Time Travel Turtle

In the 19th century, most European companies weren’t thinking about things like employee welfare, which is why Crespi d’Adda was so significant at the time.

The small town was founded in 1875 by the Crespi family to provide accommodation for its factory workers and along with houses, they created a community with things like a school, theatre, and church.

It was the first company town in Italy, which provided a blueprint of enlightenment for a new trend across the continent.

Although the factory is now closed, the town remains and has been listed as a World Heritage Site.

Visiting today gives you the opportunity to see how it all came together, from the cottages and gardens to the looming chimney of the cotton mill.

There are no official opening hours or entrance fees, but you can  book a guided tour .

It’s relatively easy to  visit Crespi d’Adda  from Milan. The drive is about 40 minutes, or there are bus routes that will drop you about 20 minutes’ walk from the site, the whole journey taking about 1.5 hours each way.

In winter, the snow creates a particularly beautiful landscape in the town and the surrounding forest, while the local church holds special services.

Varese, Lombardy

By Lisa from Travel Connect Experience

Among the most beautiful winter scenery in Lombardy is that surrounding the city of Varese.

By train, you will reach Varese from Milan in about an hour. At the top of the experiences this northern Italian city offers are those devoted to sampling the local cuisine.

The most popular dishes Varese offers are typical winter dishes, such as polenta e bruscitt, a hearty dish based on cornmeal, beef, and butter. Those who do not eat meat can delight in risotto with pumpkin or risotto with perch.

Another one of the best  things to do in Varese  in winter is to enjoy the typical local hot drink, the “buosino”.

This is a coffee to which hot chocolate, foamed milk, and chocolate chips are added. The buosino is usually served with the local dessert, “Dolce Varese,” a cake made from cornmeal.

After filling your tummy, spend some time admiring the art in the enclosed places. Varese’s iconic landmark, namely the Palazzo Estense with its gardens, houses the Civic Archaeological Museum.

Instead, the spectacular Villa Panza houses, in its luxurious interiors, about 100 works of contemporary art.

Book your train ticket from Milan to Varese in advance!

Is Milan Worth Visiting in Winter?

Milan is a wonderful Italian winter destination all on its own, thanks to a variety of cozy Christmas markets, decorated streets and stores, and an overall inviting atmosphere.

But as you can see, it’s also worth traveling to Milan in winter to see another side of all of these beloved cities and towns.

You’ll be only a short train ride away from immersing yourself in the wintertime magic of northern Italy and Switzerland.

Other Milan and Italy Travel Guides

Read more about Milan:

• Hidden gems in Milan
• Things to do on a rainy day in Milan , one of the best winter breaks in Europe
• Milan or Turin
• Road trips from Milan

More Italy guides:

• Things to do in Vicenza
• Hidden gems in northern Italy
• Best places to visit in northern Italy in October
• Best Italian road trips
• Piazzas in Italy
• Gifts for Italy lovers
• Romantic novels set in Italy
• Italy travel quotes

Related posts:

• Day trips from Bari, Italy
• Day trips from Basel by train
• Day trips from Madrid
• Things to do in Vienna in winter
• Where to stay in Vienna for Christmas markets

About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

*Your emil address will not be published. By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

12 VERY BEST EASY DAY TRIPS FROM MILAN, ITALY

While any day is an enjoyable day in Italy’s fashion capital, day trips from Milan will lead you to adventures, exploring captivating medieval cities , cultural gems and simple, beautiful lakeside towns where moments are frozen in time .

With high-end shopping galleries, finest architectural and artistic masterpieces, along with a myriad of winding streets, Milan offers so many things to do for a visitor on any given day. If you can build into your itinerary a day or two to venture out of the city on a day trip , to experience something different, exploring the hidden cultural gems of medieval cities, castles and lakeside towns, then selecting from this article on 12 very best day trips from Milan curated just for you will be a great starting point to a perfect itinerary and timeless travel.

EASY DAY TRIPS FROM MILAN, ITALY

Here are our selection of the very best 12 day trips from Milan specially curated for you:

1 | Lake Como | Day trips from Milan

Spend a day at Lake Como, Italy’s third largest lake and only a stone’s throw from the city of Milan. In under an hour in what is a seamless train journey, you will experience the most beautiful of the northern Italian lakes. The natural beauty of its settings, steep wooded shoreline and pristine aquamarine waters has been the playground for the aristocrats and wealthy since Roman times.

1.1 | What to do in Lake Como

Enjoy a luxurious cruise around its waters and take in the sights of beautiful villas and stunning alpine scenery. Combine this lake visit with a tour of the larger town of Como , located in the southern tip of the lake. Spend at least a couple of hours exploring the hidden gems of Como city , notably the neoclassical building of Villa Olmo , Como Cathedral and Piazza Duomo. Don’t forget to ride the historical Brunate Funicular , operating since 1894. It connects Como city with the village of Brunate. A 7-minute ride up gives you panoramic views over the lakes and the Swiss Alps.

Along with the stunning landscapes and medieval villages, Lake Como has been Italy’s silk capital since the 16th century. World famous, Como is home to Mantero , just 15 minutes drive from Como city centre. If you can’t get to Mantero, then stop by at A.Picci , trading since 1919 and is the last remaining silk shop in town, dedicated to selling Como silk.

A day trip to Como typically involve a visit to the smaller town of Varenna and hopping onto a ferry to Bellagio. All three offering different landscapes to the lake.

1.2 | Best time to go to Lake Como

The best time for visiting Lake Como is between March and November. The warm temperature allows you to enjoy boat tours and walks.

1.3 | Best ways to experience Lake Como

There are two best ways to experience Lake Como when visiting Milan:

Day trips from Milan

1.3.1 | Self-guided

A self-guided visit to Como allows you to explore at your own pace and longer day as you could take the last train or bus back from Como. Both are seamless and cost-effective.

Como by train

The average travel time between Milan and Como is 48 minutes. The quickest route is 37 minutes. There are about 58 direct trains connecting Milan to Como everyday.

1.3.2 | Join a group tour with an established tour operator in the travel industry for your day trips from Milan

Join a group tour and enjoy a full-day to Como from Milan on a luxury coach with a knowledgeable guide. Guided tours takes you to some of the key points in Como and you do get to see and experience quite a lot in a day! Guided tours are offered by way of a train journey or a coach. If you opt for a coach tour, you can be assured of a relaxing and comfortable journey back to Milan after all the walking you’d do in Lake Como 🙂

Timeless Travel Steps Best Tips on day trips from Milan to Lake Como:

1 | From Milan > Guided tour of Lake Como & Como

2 | From Milan > Lake Como with Bellagio and Lugano Day Trip

3 | From Milan > Best of Lake Como Experience, Cruise and Landscapes

You may like also:

4 | From Milan > Full day Lake Como romantic tour

5 | From Milan > Lake Como, Bellagio and Varenna – Full-Day Tour

6 | From Milan > Lake Como, Varenna & Bellagio

7 | From Milan > Italy and Switzerland in one day

8 | Small Group Lake Como and surrounding wine region tour from Milan

Lake Como is often combined with other nearby destinations such as Bergamo which is a great idea. However, after having spent almost a week in Lake Como, I think a full day should be dedicated to exploring this picturesque area of the lake district in Italy. There are plenty of things to do and see in Varenna, Bellagio, Menaggio, Tremezzina and Argegno.

2 | Lugano and Bellagio day trips from Milan

2.1 | lugano.

Known as “Monte Carlo of Switzerland”, Lugano sits on the southern Swiss border, Italian Canton of Ticino, south of the first ridge of the Alps. Lugano is easily reached in less than an hour from Milan offering breathtaking vistas of the Swiss Alps and shopping opportunities, a destination often high on a tourist list to this region.

2.1.1 What to do in Lugano

Immerse in the wild beauty of the lakeshore, the dominating San Salvatore and Brè Mountains. Fall in love with the Italianate architecture in the city, chic shopping streets where you buy the best Swiss chocolates. The villages are huddled to the mountainsides over the lake, offering picturesque sights for perfect photo opportunities.

San Salvatore – From Paradiso, take a 12-minute ride up onboard a funicular to reach the 900 metres for amazing views over the lake and the Alps.

Monte Br̬ РAt 925 metres above sea level, Monte Br̬ is regarded the sunniest mountain in Switzerland and a perfect home to a special flower, Christmas Rose, which usually only found in the Mediterranean climes.

2.2 | Bellagio: Day trips from Milan

Known as the “Pearl of Lake Como” , Bellagio is located in less than an hour from Lugano. Bellagio is unique – for its cobbled lanes, elegant buildings and an 18th-century terraced garden with lake views.

2.2.1 | What to do in Bellagio:

Enjoy the charming town with its cobblestones and Villa Serbelloni, an 18th century terraced garden with lake views.

2.3 | Best ways to experience Lugano and Bellagio:

2.3.1 | Self-guided

Best way to reach Lugano or Bellagio is by train from Milan. The journey time from Milan Centrale to Lugano is a little over an hour.

If you want to reach Bellagio by train, take the train from Centrale to Varenna, nearest station to Bellagio. From Varenna take the ferry across to Bellagio. The are regular services to Varenna.

2.2.2 | Group tours

Join a small group tour from the centre of Milan, seeing the very best of Lugano and Bellagio and plenty of time to explore on your own. There are various options offered, with some tours taking off from Como. Check and book now, on the one that best fits your itinerary.

TTS recommends the following tour:

1 | Lugano & Bellagio Cruise experience

Suggested tours:

2 | Bellagio Hike Tour & Villas

3 | Bellagio Walking Tour, Villa Melzi & Lunch

4 | Cooking lesson in Bellagio

5 | Private Water Bike Tour on Lake Como

2.4 | For off the beaten path adventure in Bellagio:

Join a 2-hour activity exploring a wilderness trail in a place that is so close to Bellagio and yet, little known and little visited. The village of Lezzeno, between the mountains and the lake.

The Devil’s Bridge Wilderness Walk

3 | Bergamo – Day trips from Milan

A visit to Bergamo is often combined with a visit to Lake Como but I think it’s worth dedicating a day exploring this historic town . With hills stretching for miles and its incredible surrounds, a remarkable experience awaits.

3.1 | What to do in Bergamo

This charming, yet hidden and unexplored city has plenty of medieval architecture to marvel at including the 5 kilometres of medieval wall encircling the old town. Explore Bergamo Alta, the hidden city at the top of the town, accessed via a funicular. Visit the Venetian Works of Defence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site for incredible views over Bergamo.

Other incredible experiences at Bergamo Alta not to be missed: Bergamo Cathedral, St. Maria Maggiore Basilica, and the Colleoni Chapel.

3.2 | Best ways to experience Bergamo:

3.2.1 | Self-guided

Getting to Bergamo:

There is a direct train from Milan Centrale Station. Journey is about an hour.

3.2.2 | Group tours

Spend a day on a walking tour of this medieval city and explore its history and culture.

Timeless Travel Steps Best Tips:

1 | Bergamo: 2.5-Hour Private Upper Town Tour with a guide

2 | From Milan: Full-Day Food & Wine Experience in Franciacorta

3 | Bergamo: 3.5-Hour Traditional Food Tour

Suggested tours

4 | Bergamo: 2.5-Hour Private Lower Town Walking Tour w/ Guide

5 | Bergamo Half-Day Tour from Milan

4 | Lake Maggiore & the Borromean Islands – Day trips from Milan

Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Island are perfect destinations as day trips from Milan, an escape to the peaceful haven from the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy a day hopping-on and off the 11 islands that form this cluster of pretty charm.

4.1 | What to do in Lake Maggiore and surrounds

The main attraction here are the three distinct islands, Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori (also known as Isola Superiore). Explore their individual charms at leisure and enjoy the tranquility of the natural beauty of the islands. Visit Palazzo Borromeo, a unique 10-tiered baroque garden design in Isola Bella that has remained intact. Isola Madre is home to a fabulous Palace Museum and Gardens which should not be missed. Isola dei Pescatori is a fisherman’s village and the only village inhabited all year round.

4.2 | Best ways to experience Lake Maggiore

4.2.1 | Self-guided

Begin your day of island hopping at Stresa , a lakeside town which is about 1 hour 7 minutes from Milan by train . All the islands are a short ferry ride of each other.

Travel by train to Lake Maggiore from Milan options :

To get to Lake Maggiore from Milan by train , you can take one of the direct trains offered by Trenitalia . There are direct trains from either Milan Centrale Station or Milan Porta Garibaldi stations with stops at Arona, Stresa and Verbania-Pallanza.

4.2.2 | Group tours

1 | Stresa: 1-Day Borromean Islands Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour

2 | Stresa to Isola Bella Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Ticket

3 | Stresa: Lake Maggiore and Borromean Islands Sunset Cruise

5 | Verona – Day trips from Milan

Made famous by Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, the beautiful town of Verona is as pretty as was described. With temperate weather and regarded by Mozart and Goethe as the perfect holiday spot , Verona has many other strings to its bow which must be explored and certainly merits a day trip from Milan.

5.1 | Best time to visit Verona

Anytime between March and September is a great time to visit. July and August are the busiest months of the year for tourism – expect to pay premium prices for accommodations and long queues at attractions. From mid February/March to June and September to early November, the weather is mild with less rain, which also makes a perfect time to visit Verona.

5.2 | What to do in Verona

Visit the Arena di Verona , Piazza delle Erbe with its town hall and a clock-tower, Torre dei Lamberti . Splash out if you wish in the Centro Storico . Certainly do not miss Juliet’s balcony . The centre of town is compact, walkable with barely any need to take public transport . Don’t miss Castelvecchio , a Roman fortress just outside of the city walls.

5.3 | Best ways to experience Verona:

5.3.1 | Self-guided

If you have just one day in Verona, then start your journey early so you can cover most of Verona. Take the fast-train as this is the quickest way to get to Verona. For a comprehensive guide on Verona, visit this page on City of Verona Guide – A Complete Travel Resource

How to reach Verona from Milan

Getting to Verona: Verona can be reached in a little over an hour from Milan. The average travel time between Verona and Milan is 1 hour 23 minutes. The quickest route takes 1 hour 15 minutes. There are 23 trains in a day between Milan and Verona, leaving approximately every hour.

TTS tip: Verona is a beautiful town and offers so much to see, do and experience. I spent 3 days in Verona and wished I could have stayed longer. Dedicate one day in its entirety at the very least in Verona, because Verona is so much more than Juliet’s balcony.

Recommended read: Unique experiences in the City of Verona

5.3.2 | Group tours

4-Day Italian Lakes and Verona Tour from Milan

6 | Lake Garda – Day trips from Milan

Lake Garda, the largest, cleanest and the most famous of lakes in Italy definitely warrants a visit. It’s crystalline waters, the beautiful backdrop of snowcapped mountains, charming towns of Bardolino, Sirmione and Desenzano will captivate you from the moment you arrive here.

6.1 | What to do in Lake Garda:

Take a quick cruise out to scale the shores and be captivated with the villas of the rich and famous. In Bardolino, there are two Romanesque churches which you simply must see. Sirmione, the “Pearl of Lake Garda” has so much to offer visitors including a medieval fortress, Roman villa and the Catullo caves.

6.2 | Best ways to experience Lake Garda:

6.2.1 | Self-guided

Getting to Lake Garda :

There are  two ways  to get to Lake Garda from Milan by train. First option is to arrive at  Desenzano del Garda  from Milan. The journey is 51 minutes and there are 25 trains each day. Secondly, a train journey to  Peschiera del Garda  will take 57 minutes, also 25 trains in a day.

6.2.2 | Group tours | Day trips from Milan

For convenience, group tours are a popular option. Day trips from Milan by coach to Lake Garda are in comfortable air-conditioned coaches accompanied by a knowledgeable guide. As well, day trips from Milan to Lake Garda often combined with a trip to Verona. This makes an excellent value for money experience.

Timeless Travel Steps Best Tip:

1 | Verona and Lake Garda Day Trip from Milan

7 |  Venice  â€“ Day trips from Milan

Venice needs no introduction! This romantic city of canals, bridges, cobbled streets and gondolas must be in everyone’s list of things to do when in Italy.

7.1 | What to do in Venice:

You may not be able to fit all of  Venice’s delights  in a  day trip from Milan  but if a day is all you have, then allow yourself to be charmed by the fantastic architecture that characterises one the world’s favourite cities. Wander the little  alleys  and stop for coffee at the infamous  Piazza San Marco . Hop over to Venice’s nearby island,  Murano  and experience the colours of the island and its historic tradition with  glass-blowing . If you could do a  gondola ride  through its many canals at  sunset , it will surely be memories well worth the money!

7.2 | Best ways to experience Venice on day trips from Milan

7.2.1 | Self-guided

If you wish to explore Venice independently, the best way to do so is to make your way to Venice is by train. Make an early start so you have a full day in Venice.

Getting to Venice: 

Takes a little over 2 hours to reach  Venice by train   from Milan.  The average travel time between Milan and Venice is 2 hours and 32 minutes. The quickest route is 2 hours and 10 minutes. There are 22 trains in a day between Milan and Venice, leaving approximately every hour.

7.2.2 | Group tours

Group tours are highly popular and the following tours have been carefully selected for you.

1 | From Milan > Full day trip to Venice with guided city tour

2 | Venice full-day guided tour from Milan – Hotel pick up

8 | Cinque Terre – Day trips from Milan

Visit one of Italy’s  most scenic landscape  with layer upon layer of  rainbow-hued medieval houses perched upon hillsides  â€“ the five villages of  Cinque Terre  are sure to captivate and delight visitors of all ages. A  UNESCO  World-Heritage is also one of the most Instagrammable site!

8.1 | What to do in Cinque Terre:

A day is too short a time to explore all five medieval villages but there will be enough time to wander round  Monterosso al Mare  (the largest of the Cinque Terre villages) and  Vernazza.

8.2 | Ways to experience Cinque Terre: 

8.2.1 | Self-guided

Getting to Cinque Terre:  

There is a direct train from Milan to Monterosso which takes about 3 hours. There are other routes that require a change at Genoa.

8.2.2 | Guided Group tours

Book a coach tour from Milan to Monterosso. Spend one day exploring this picturesque Italian villages. Some tours include a 1.5 hour boat trip to Vernazza, a beautiful fishing village in every sense.

1 | From Milan > A full day tour to Cinque Terre

2 | Cinque Terre Day Trip from Milan With Hotel Pickup

You may like also the following popular tours

1 | 4 Day Italian Riviera from Milan

2 | Cinque Terre Sunset Boat Tour

9 | Genova and Portofino – Day trips from Milan

Get away for a day and go on a scenic drive along the coast to the three colourful gems in the beautiful Ligurian Coast. Genova is Italy’s largest port and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Together with the colourful villages of Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure, it is a delightful area of the Italian Riviera to explore as day trips from Milan.

9.1 | What to do in Genova & Portofino:

The historic streets of Genova is home to monuments dedicated to its maritime history and memorials to Christopher Columbus. Sail along the coast to the glamorous fishing village of Portofino that dates back to Roman times, take in the picturesque sights of the fishing boats and spend some time exploring the Santa Margherita Ligure.

9.2 | Ways to experience Genova & Portofino

9.2.1 | Self-guided

You can explore independently by car or train. However, parking is very limited here and the recommended option is to take the train.

Getting to Genova or Portofino:

When taking a train to this area, you may have to decide between Genova or Portifino. Genova has a lot to offer and can typically involve a full day of discovery if you wish to explore the off-the-beaten paths as well.

Alternatively, take the train from Milan to Santa Margherita and from here, walk to Portofino. It is quite an easy trek . When in Portofino, take a boat ride to visit the abbey – San Fruttuosa . To catch your return journey from Santa Margherita, you could get the bus from Portofino .

9.2.2 | Guided group tours

A coach tour from Milan city centre with a tour guide. This day trip from Milan includes a boat trip to Portofino.

Timeless Travel Steps Best Tips: from Milan to Genova & Portofino

1 | From Milan > A full-day tour to Genova and Portofino

You may like also the following popular tours in Genova

1 | Food Tours > Do Eat Better Experience

2 | Genoa Day Tour: 4 hours of Wine Food History and Joy

3 | Gulf of Portofino Private Boat Tour

4 | Portofino Boat and Walking Tour with Pesto Cooking & Lunch

5 | Andrea Boat Charter Portofino

6 | Ligurian Sea Day Sailing Trip by Set Sail Tours/ Lavagna, Italy

Note: For those who do not know – Genova is the original Italian word for this city while Genoa is the English version of the word.

10 | Interlaken & the Swiss Alps – Day trips from Milan

Venture to another country while visiting Milan! Just a few hours and you would arrive in Interlaken – one of the most scenic places on earth!

10.1 | What to do in Interlaken:

Enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the Swiss Alps onboard the Green Train of the Alps.as it takes you on a journey through Simplon pass, one of the most beautiful crossings in Switzerland. Take an amazing cruise on Lake Thun and explore Interlaken at your own pace before your return journey.

10.2 | Best way to experience Interlaken & the Swiss Alps

Onboard a high-speed train from Milan to the town of Domodossola to board the Green Train of the Alps.

From Milan: Interlaken & Swiss Alps Day Trip

11 | Florence | Day trips from Milan

Florence is an unmissable destination for most visitors to Italy, especially so for art aficionados. Considered to be the birthplace of Renaissance, Florence is home to many Renaissance masterpieces, architectural delights and monuments.

11.1 | What to do in Florence, Italy

One of the most iconic sights in Florence is the Duomo . The Cathedral with a terracotta-tiled dome was designed by Brunelleschi and a bell tower by Giotto . This impressive Duomo offers panoramic views from the top. Make time to visit the Uffizi Gallery , exhibiting Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus”.

The Ponte Vecchio is another experience not to miss – the first arch bridge built in the west which crosses over the Arno River. There are many jewellery and souvenir shops along here as well.

11.2 | Best ways to experience Florence as day trips from Milan:

11.2.1 | Self-guided

Getting to Florence by train is the best option if you are not driving. You can reach Florence from Milan in under 2 hours on the high-speed trains! There are 36 trains in a day. The last train leaves Florence at 10:00 p.m. giving you ample time to explore the city.

Florence Day Trip From Milan By Train – this option includes the following :

City map and guidebook;

Florence hop-on hop-off bus tour ticket (valid for 24 hours);

Round-trip high-speed train ticket between Milan and Florence;

Skip-the-line ticket for the Uffizi Gallery (if option selected);

Book Florence day trip from Milan by train

Note: This is not a guided tour

12 | Turin – Day trips from Milan

Last but not least is the Unmissable Turin! The capital city of Piedmont in northern Italy is captivating. It’s refined architecture of baroque buildings , old cafes and grand boulevards makes Turin one of the best Italian cities to visit. The bustling piazzas of Castello and San Carlo draws many and so are the miles of arcades to be explored. To top it off are a number of Michelin-starred restaurants .

Certainly, of course, Turin is most famous for “Shroud of Turin” also known as “Holy Shroud”. A piece of linen believed to be the garment in which Jesus was covered with after his crucifixion. The garment has been preserved since 1578 in the royal chapel of the cathedral of San Giovanni Battista .

12.1 | Best ways to experience Turin when visiting Milan

12.1.1 | Self-guided

The most convenient way to get to Turin from Milan when exploring the city independently is by train. Take the high speed train for a journey time of 1 hour 27 minutes. There are about 40 trains in a day. Last trains are at 10:00 p.m. giving you plenty of time to explore.

Tours you may like while in Turin, Italy :

1 | Turin Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: 24 or 48-Hour Ticket

2 | Turin: Egyptian Museum Skip-the-Line Guided Mystery Tour

3 | Turin: Egyptian Museum & City Tour Guided Experience

Important tips to consider:

1 | train travel in italy.

When planning ahead on your train travel journeys, one thing to bear in mind is that in Italy, point-to-point train journeys work cheaper. Therefore, when planning your day trips from Milan and if your trip is a one-off journey, purchase a return ticket for your trip.

However, if you are visiting a couple of the cities, including day trips from larger cities such as Rome and you plan on travelling by train over several days, then the Interrail Pass is a cost-effective option.

2 | Places to stay in Milan

A selection of hotels carefully selected for you to consider > Beautiful places to stay in Milan

Final thoughts on day trips from Milan:

These are the very best day trips from Milan which we have put together for you to design your itinerary your way. You have options to explore either independently or by joining a group tour for when you visit Milan.

We recommend group tours because we find day trips are excellent value for money excursions. You can’t experience everything a destination offers but it certainly gives an overview of a destination, essential experiences and opportunities to return to explore deeper.

We hope that this list on 12 very best day trips from Milan is of value to you. Our suggestions are carefully curated for the discerning traveller who wants to create their very own timeless travel memories. As well, consider using the links to book your flights, train travel, places to stay and activities. We earn a commission from qualified stays and bookings at no cost to you at all. As always, we appreciate your continued support. You may wish to support us in other ways also.

Have a great time exploring Milan and surrounds.

More Travel Inspiration?

Before you go, take a look at the following articles about other destinations in Italy, including things to do and where to stay.

If you are planning to travel around wider Europe, take a look at our dedicated pages about England . More specifically about London , Barcelona, Amsterdam , Budapest, Seville , and The Highland .

• Where to Stay in Milan: 5 Best Areas
• Top 3 Leonardo’s Last Supper Tours
• 12 Very Best Easy Day Trips from Milan
• An Overview of Milan Centrale Station
• 5 Attractions in Parco Sempione, Milan Not to Miss
• Sforza Castle and Museum, Milan
• Getting Around Milan like a Local: A Simple Guide to Milan’s Public Transportation
• Arco della Pace, Milan
• Quotes about Milan that makes the City Irresistible
• Milan at a Glance: An Overview of What to Expect
• Milan Bucket List Ideas: Best 19 Attractions
• How to Enjoy the Best of Milan in One Day
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan

Milan Cathedral: How to Make the Best of Your Visit

• The Best of Milan: The Sunset from the Rooftop Milan Cathedral
• The Ultimate Milan City Guide
• Where to Stay in Lake Como, Italy
• How to Travel Around Lake Como
• A 5-Day Itinerary in Lake Como for a Fabulous Stay
• Best 8 Towns in Lake Como You Must Visit
• From Milan Malpensa to Lake Como by Train
• Argegno: The Perfect Off-beat Charm in Lake Como
• Varenna: 10 Best Things to do
• 18 Best Things to Do See in Bellagio, Lake Como
• 17+ Best Things to do in Como City, Italy
• Complete Guide to Lake Como, Italy
• 9 Charming Walking Tours in Verona
• 3 Best Food Tours in Verona
• Verona by Bike: 6 Fun Cycle Tours
• Best 7 Places to Stay in Verona
• 31 Best Things to do in Verona
• Verona Wine: 11 Best Garda Wines
• Food in Verona: Best 16 Traditional Food to Try or to Know About before you go
• Romeo and Juliet in Fair Verona
• An Incredible Valpolicella Winery Visit in Verona
• Mazzanti Houses, Verona, Italy
• Verona Arena
• Piazza delle Erbe, Verona
• Piazza Bra, Verona
• The Lamberti Tower, Verona
• Majestic Gran Guardia Palace, Verona
• Verona at a Glance
• Complete Guide to Verona, Italy

Georgina xoxo

ESSENTIALS FOR MILAN TRAVEL

1 | From Bergamo Airport to Milan City Centre  â€” Direct Bus Transfer

2 | From Malpensa Airport to Milan Central Station

3 | Linate Airport to Milan Central Station

4 | Private transfer from Milan Airport

5 | Milan 48-hour City Pass

6 | Entry to Milan Cathedral and Rooftop

7 | Milan Hop-on Hop-off Bus Ticket

8 | Milan Cathedral + Terraces Fast-Track Guided Tour

OUR BEST SELLING ACTIVITIES IN MILAN

1 | Fast-track Milan Cathedral and Terraces Guide Tour

2 | Day trip from Milan: Lake Como + Bellagio + Lugano

3 | Day trip from Milan: Lake Como + Bellagio + Varenna

4 | Leonardo Science & Technology Museum Entry

5 | Leonardo da Vinci Last Supper and Santa Maria delle Grazie Tour

6 | Milan City Food Tour

Share to Social Media

I would love it if you could share this article on your social media and follow me on Pinterest .

Introducing Georgina, the insightful Content Creator behind Timeless Travel Steps. A champion of off-season journeys and cultural immersion for the mature traveller, Georgina has explored 4 continents and over 30 countries. Her blog offers practical tips and personal insights into responsible, comfort-oriented travel along with slow travel destinations. Accompanied by classical, country, and jazz tunes, Georgina's solo adventures and time with her adult children, A & M, enrich her unique travel narrative. Join her for inspiring, immersive global explorations.

Similar Posts

Getting around Milan like a local: An Easy Guide to Milan’s Public Transport

PARCO SEMPIONE, MILAN: 5 MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Why you should visit

RIVETING FUN FACTS ABOUT THE MILAN CATHEDRAL, ITALY

WHERE TO STAY IN MILAN: 5 BEST NEIGHBOURHOODS

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• Day Trips From Milan: 13 Places To Visit From Milan In 2024 For A Rejuvenating Escapade

18 Jan 2023

No holiday in Italy is complete without Milan. By showcasing its splendid palaces, churches, opera houses and other heritage structures, Milan attracts tourists around the year. Not only that, while holidaying in this beautiful city, you can also visit other scenic places in close proximity. These will make for perfect day trips from Milan , from where you can return the same day after a heart-warming excursion.

Let’s take a peek and discover the places that are perfect if you don’t want to venture too far from Milan.

13 Best Day Trips From Milan To Take In 2023

Not only sightseeing, but there are also a lot of local weekend trips from Milan that you can head to. These are some of the most amazing places to explore near Milan:

1. Pavia- The former Roman capital

Known for renaissance monuments and around 100 medieval towers, Pavia is the perfect choice if you are looking for half day trips from Milan, Italy. While churches and cathedrals showcase beautiful medieval art and sculptures to cement its position as a culture-rich destination, Pavia is now popular as a university town and is frequented by tourists around the year. If you too have a soft spot for medieval art, vintage villas, old bridges, and aged cobblestone streets, Pavia is the place for you.

Distance from Milan: 35 km Places to see in Pavia: Castello Visconteo, Pavia Cathedral, Ponte Coperto and San Michele Maggiore. If you are visiting the century-old University of Pavia, explore the garden which houses an exotic collection of roses and medicinal plants.

Must Read: Milan Restaurants: 10 Restaurants For Italian Flavours

Europe Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

Explore the most beautiful places to visit in Europe, from Paris to the Venice canals and from the Greek islands to the Swiss alps. Book customized packages by expert agents on TravelTriangle. Inclusive of airport transfers, cab, resort, sightseeing and meals. Best holiday experience Guaranteed. Book Now

Magnificent Switzerland Holiday 6D/5N Package @ Rs 69,999

Plan your trip today!

Magnificent Europe Tour 7D/6N Package @ Rs 70,975

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

France & Switzerland Tour Package 8D/7N @ Rs 90,000

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

Scintillating Spain & Portugal Tour 11D/10N @ Rs 101,150

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

6 Country Europe Tour Package 12D/11N @ Rs 118,650

Best prices guaranteed. EMI option available.

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

2. Bergamo- The walled city

Image Source

Bergamo is a walled city of the ancient era, located in the Lombardy region of Italy and is best known for its immense natural beauty. It is only a few hours away from Milan. With walls stretched out for nearly 5 km, the quaint city boasts of vintage buildings, churches, cathedrals and palaces. The old city of Bergamo is composed of an old walled core known as La Citta Alta. As it is located upslope, a funicular is used to shuttle tourists uphill. Thus, making it a splendid option if you want day trips from Milan by train.

Distance from Milan: 41 km Places to see in Bergamo: Citta Alta, Cappella Colleoni, Santa Maria Maggiore and Piazza Vecchia

3. Bellagio- A spectacular lake town

Bellagio is counted among the most beautiful lake towns of Italy. Located by a peninsula that divides Lake Como into two, Bellagio is a sight to behold and is known as the ‘Pearl of Lake Como’. With sprawling gardens, vintage churches, shops, and restaurants, Bellagio is one of the best options for day trips from Milan. If you are a big fan of water sports, don’t forget to visit Pescallo, an old village just 10 minutes away from Bellagio. Located southeast of the main town, you can go kayaking or water skiing before returning to Milan.

Distance from Milan: 58 km Places to see in Bellagio: Lake Como, Villa Carlotta, Villa del Balbianello and Giardini di Villa Melzi

Suggested Read: 20 Places To Visit In Milan To Know About Its Cultural Past & Rich Heritage

4. Franciacorta- For a heart-warming visual treat

Treat your eyes and soul with the view of sprawling vineyards at Franciacorta. If it is one among the many day trips you take from Milan, then your trip to Italy can be considered complete. Franciacorta is a wine-growing region of Italy and known for housing the best wineries. If you are taking a trip to Milan, make sure it is in your ‘places to visit’ checklist. Also, do visit some of the vineyards, take guided tours to see how wine is processed, and taste the exotic varieties before leaving the city.

Distance from Milan: 70 km Places to see in Franciacorta: Natural Reserve Sebino, St. Nicholas Abbey and Castello di Passirano

5. Lugano- The surreal Swiss beauty

Lugano is located on the Switzerland-Italy border and is the only Italian-speaking Swiss city. Lugano is hands down among the best places to visit in Italy . Featuring sparkling lake and stunning views of Swiss Alps, Lugano looks like a colorful picture-postcard and fascinates every avid traveler. It also has a throng of apparel stores which can enchant the shopaholic in you. So, if you want day trips from Milan to Switzerland, a visit to Lugano is a must.

Distance from Milan: 79.5 km Places to see in Lugano: Lake Lugano, Villa Carlotta, Monte San Salvatore and Chiesa di Santa Maria degli Angeli.

Suggested Read: 13 Places To Visit To Experience The Lively Milan Nightlife

6. Sirmione- A beautiful lake city

If you wish to enjoy the surreal beauty of Lake Garda – Italy’s largest freshwater lake – travel to Sirmione. As one of the top places for day trips from Milan in winter, Sirmione falls in the Lombardy countryside and exudes immense natural beauty and aura. Take leisure strolls on the beach or go on a cruise, there are numerous ways to explore the ancient Roman city. As an insider tip, do enjoy the breathtaking sunset at Sirmione before returning to Milan.

Distance from Milan: 132 km Places to see in Sirmione: Scaligero Castle, Jamaica Beach, Grottoes of Catullus and Chiesa di San Pietro

Suggested Read: 10 Things To Do In Milan That Let You Absorb The Essence Of The City

7. Turin- City with historical significance

As the first capital of Italy, Turin has a global fame factor. Also, owing to its proximity to Milan, it has made its way as one of the best getaways near Milan. From age-old cafes, shops to vintage architecture and renaissance monuments, Turin has everything. If you are an incorrigible foodie, don’t forget to make time for Turin, the city that gave the world its first hard chocolate. If possible, spend an evening here for Magic Turin Evening Tour before returning to Milan.

Distance from Milan: 145.2 km Places to see in Turin: Museo Egizio, Royal Palace, Mole Antonelliana and Palazzo Madama e Casaforte degli Acaja

Suggested Read: Shopping In Italy: 6 Best Places For The Shopaholics To Indulge In An Extravaganza

8. Genoa- Awe-inspiring view of the harbor

This is Italy’s largest port as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its scenic coastal location and stunning panorama are perfect for one and all, while the monumental public squares, boulevards, opera houses, bronze fountains and age-old Roman cathedrals make Genoa one of the top places to visit near Milan. While it may not be one of the easy day trips from Milan, it is, for sure, a place worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.

Distance from Milan: 117 km Places to see in Genoa: Aquarium of Genoa, Piazza de Ferrari and Via Giuseppe Garibaldi

9. Florence

Marvel at ancient architecture and wander around the iconic landmarks at this Italian destination. Stroll in the Uffizi art gallery and witness the breathtaking views from the Duomo from the top. Florence makes for a great place to meander around in floaters and soak in some sunshine.

Distance from Milan : 315 km Places to visit in Florence : Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi art gallery, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

10. St. Moritz, Switzerland

Image source

This might come as a surprise, but Switzerland is just a day’s trip away from Italy. This stunning Swiss town of Switzerland is full of scenic views of the Alps and includes most famous mountain resorts. Hop on the Bernina Express from Tirano and enjoy a scenic two and a half hours journey ascending from 429m up to over 1800 in the Swiss mountains making it one hell of a ride.

Distance from Milan : 166 Km Places to visit : Corviglia, Lake St. Moritz, Piz Nair, Segantini Museum

Venic is Italy’s one of prized romantic cities that possesses several hidden gems and charming characteristics of a city that leave you dazzled you in every nook and cranny. The city’s majestic charm captivate you to take a trip from any part of the world, Venice is about a 3 hours journey from Milan and though it’s hard to fit all of Venice’s treasures into one day, a day trip certainly seems all worth it. Wander the cobbled streets, take a gondola ride in the waterways, and have a coffee in the famous Piazza San Marco.  

Distance from Milan: 270 Km Places to visit : Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Square, Saint Mark’s Basilica, Rialto Bridge

12. Cinque Terre

This picture-perfect scenic place is absolutely instagram-worthy from every angle. A day trip to this picturesque town will include unraveling the hills and rainbow hued houses, the five villages of Cinque Terre are going to be a delight to any traveler’s heart and soul. Capture the picturesque landscape views and enjoy a scenic drive down here.

Distance from Milan : 230 Km Places to visit : Doria Castle, Via Fegina, Church of San Giovanni Battista

This historic city was the setting of Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo & Juliet’, with a medieval old town built between the meandering Adige River making a stunning backdrop for a romantic revival. Unravel the place of the world’s most famous lovers, Romeo & Juliet, through the streets immortalised in his play. Get a chance to see the balcony from which Juliet wondered ‘Where art thou Romeo?’.

Distance from Milan : 160 km Places to visit : Lake Garda, Juliet’s House, Verona Arena, Osteria Sottocosta

Further Read: 14 Milan Shopping Places That Highlight The City’s Fashion Sense

Milan is a regional powerhouse in Italy, but more than that it is a testament to the country’s past and future. Not only for the unmatched shopping experience, but Milan should also be on the list of every traveler for the awe-inspiring landscape it showcases. Now that you know about all day trips from Milan, do include them while chalking out Italy packages with TravelTriangle .

Disclaimer:  TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Day Trips From Milan

Is Tuscany in northern Italy?

Tuscany is in central Italy.

What travel modes are available for day trips from Milan to Switzerland?

The best way to travel from Milan to Switzerland is via trains.

How far is Lake Como from Milan?

Lake Como is about 84 km far from Milan.

How long is the train ride from Milan to Lake Como?

The average travel time between Milan and Como is 33 minutes.

Where should I visit near Milan?

Lake Como. Lake Maggiore. Lake Garda. Cinque Terre. The Wine Region. Franciacorta. Bergamo. Venice. Florence. Bologna. Pavia.

Looking To Book An International Holiday?

Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.

Trip to Sri Lanka at Rs 13,500/-

Plan Your Vacation Today!

Trip to Singapore at Rs 20,499/-

Get Quotes From Local Experts

Mauritius Holiday Starting at Rs 65,000/-

Talk to Our Experts Today

Maldives Honeymoon Trip at Rs 39,800/-

Pay with easy EMI Option

Europe Trip at Rs 89,999/-

All Inclusive Deals

Vacation in Dubai at Rs 27,499/-

Hong Kong Holiday at Rs 24,999/-

Money Safe Guarantee

Thailand Holiday at Rs 7,999/-

Flights Excluded

People Also Read:

Day Trips From London Day Trips From Paris Day Trips From Luxor

Recent Posts

10 Endroits touristiques en Italie qui sont incroyablement magnifiques

14 Spectaculaires attractions touristiques de la Suisse qui méritent une visite en 2024!

11 Facts About Roman Forum: A Glimpse Into Rome’s Rich History

Explore 9 Hidden Gems In Italy For A Unique Experience

10 Plages près de Naples où vous adorerez sortir votre crème solaire en 2024

Mount Abu In Monsoon: 10 Best Experiences For Witnessing The Town In All Its Glory In 2023

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2024 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• Destinations » Italy »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan

Travelling is ultimately a tool for growth. If you want to venture further, click this banner and take the leap 😉

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » Italy » 12 Epic Day Trips from Milan, Italy [2024 Edition]

12 Epic Day Trips from Milan, Italy [2024 Edition]

Every time we find ourselves in a new place, we have a choice. We could either explore it like a wide-eyed tourist or live the life of a local. When I landed in Milan six months ago, I vowed to myself that I’d revel in this city like a true Milanese.

Milan has a gritty splendour like no other. The old-world charm and the urban allure of this city kept me occupied for months. However, once I had explored every nook and cranny, I felt myself craving some more of the romance, literature, history, and architecture, Italy is famous for.

What better source to hit up than my local friends, they helped me explore the best of Italy via some incredible day trips from Milan, creating memories to last a lifetime!

Now, it’s time for me to share those experiences with you!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Half-Day Trips from Milan

Full-day trips from milan, final thoughts.

Milan is a brilliant hotspot for all things fun and adventurous and there really is so much to do there . Its ideal location in Western Lombardy puts it within hours of some of the best attractions in Italy . Even if you have just half a day to spare, make sure you check out these Milan half-day trips for some thrilling experiences.  

Day Trip to The Fidenza Village 

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

You might have shopped at many malls in your life, but have you ever shopped at an outdoor shopping mall, housing more than 100 luxury brands? Let’s be honest, the Italians don’t do understated when it comes to fashion and shopping!

The famed Fidenza Village brings you up close to the envied collections of fashion powerhouses. This cathedral of shopping offers an unrivalled collection of designer items from the likes of Armani, Coach, Frette, Loro Piana, Missoni, Prada, Belstaff, Dolce & Gabbana, Jimmy Choo, and Versace. It’s definately one of the most intreguing places to visit in Milan .

The best part of this unique day trip from expensive Milan is that despite first impressions, there is something here for every price range… even us backpackers can pick something up with a ‘Made in Italy’ tag on it! The boutiques of this designer outlet not only offer great shopping opportunities for those with the means but also an interesting look into the culture of fashion in Italy.

Once you’ve built up an appetite from carrying those heavy shopping bags around this massive complex, or the freshly highlighted weight of poverty, it’s time to hit the restaurants. It will come as no surprise that this is no run of the mill food court. The wide gastronomic choices on offer are just as elegant and sophisticated, however many can be sampled without breaking the bank.

  Suggested Trips – From Milan: Fidenza Village Shopping Outlet Trip  

Day Trip to Pavia 

Just an hour from Milan, situated along the beautiful river Ticino, is a university town called Pavia. The short distance and the calming aura of this town make it a perfect destination for those seeking to escape the fast-paced life of the city.   

This town exists at the crossroads of ancient history and modern urban flair. The University of Pavia was founded in 1361, making it the second oldest in Italy. As you stroll through the town you’ll come across an endless amount of fascinating and intricate buildings from the medieval and renaissance era. Every now and then on your wistful wanderings, you’ll happily stumble across a dazzling local market to lure you in with its dizzying array of unique trinkets.  

After your stroll, make your first stop at Certosa di Pavia, a Carthusian monastery from the 17 th century. Time will pass quickly while you soak in the stunning Italian Renaissance architecture, roaming street to street getting lost in the historic atmosphere of the town. Be sure not to miss the town’s biggest highlight, The Ponte Coperto. This bridge is a symbol of the city, the original Roman version that saw the rise and fall of empires was destroyed during WW2. The reconstruction and reopening of the bridge in 1951 represented the rebuilding of this area postwar.

If you still manage to save some time, head over to La Torre Degli Aquila and relish in their creative meals, while enjoying the views of Maria’s medieval tower. A perfect way to end your Milan day trip exploring this town steeped in the tales of the past.

It’s always difficult to leave a charming town like Pavia, so the next time you visit, book some cosy accommodation and stay a while longer.  

Day Trip to Franciacorta  

A day trip from Milan to Franciacorta is an ideal way to spend some of your limited time in this region. If you have yet to experience the famous vineyards of Italy then this is the perfect opportunity to frolic in the green pastures and take some insta worthy selfies. The rows of perfectly lined lush plantations hug the rolling hillsides as the magnificent Swiss Alps loom in the background. Bloody gorgeous!

The wine regions of Franciacorta have remained a favourite of Italy’s aristocrats for centuries. If you want to spend a day experiencing the finer vices of the Italians, there’s no better place than Franciacorta. The tranquil fields also offer a perfect opportunity to take a respite from busy city life in buzzing Milan.

Here, the winemakers stick to traditional methods. They harvest the grapes by hand and leave them to ferment in oak barrels for a year and a half. Some of the finest wines in the world are prepared in this very place. It isn’t just the sparkling wines of Franciacorta that attract the aristocrats, but also the breathtaking landscape that keeps them coming back time after time. 

If you wish for a day of relaxation where you can treat yourself like royalty, then Franciacorta is the place to be. It’s also an ideal place to pack a flowing red dress and pretend to walk through a vineyard if that’s your sort of thing!

Suggested Trips – From Milan: Full-Day Food and Wine Experience in Franciacorta  

Day Trip to Lake Garda 

It’s an absolute travesty to miss out on Lake Garda – the largest and cleanest lake of Italy – if you are already in Milan. This majestic lake is just 2 hours from the city and is loved by the locals and the tourists alike so be sure to add it to your Italy itinerary . 

In addition to being expansive, Lake Garda’s crystalline water is breathtakingly beautiful, with incredible mountains rising magnificently as a backdrop. From the shore, you’ll spot numerous islands on the lake, each steeped in its own unique history.

On the southern shores of the lake is the charismatic and historic town of Sirmione. The town is littered with evidence of human civilization dating back 7000 years. One stunning example is the fortress of Scaligero Castle, surrounded by the lapping waters of the azure Lake Garda. The museum that the castle now houses tells the town’s rich history and the stories of the elite Roman families who used to reside here.

Before leaving, don’t forget to visit the famous Aquaria, the town’s spa known for its thermal bath. Perfect for relaxing at any time of year, but especially wonderful in the cooler months.

Heading to Lake Garda is an easy day trip from Milan, but once you get there, you might feel like extending your mini-vacation. If you do change your mind, check out Hotel Eden and enjoy its terraces that overlook the charming area or many of the other incredible places to stay in Lake Garda .

Day Trip to Bergamo 

The small city of Bergamo is a treat for all those who are searching for Roman history, medieval architecture and scenic sights. Situated in the foothills of the Alps, and littered with houses built in the Middle Ages, this city simply can’t be missed. 

Bergamo is less than an hour’s drive from Milan and is one of its most enjoyable day trips. The highlight of this city is the charming old town situated on top of a steep hill overlooking the “lower town” and the surrounding countryside. The monumental 16th-century Bastions and their imposing entrance gates provide the ultimate welcome.

Before you explore the modern part of the city at the bottom of the hill, take in the Venetian Old Town on foot first. Walking is the perfect way to take in this fascinating town and all its beautiful intricate details. Stop by Piazza Vecchia or Piazza Duomo and let the town transport you to times of long-gone eras and empires.

The charm of this city lies in exploring the twists and turns of the avenues, chic cafes on street corners and enchanting history down each street.

This is the kind of place you would want to lose yourself in, and if you feel like being a part of this old era for a night, check into Al Calicanto and experience Italy like a local, if not then there are plenty of great hostels in bergamo for those on a buget.  

If the high-end fashion malls, winding streets, colourful neighbourhoods, and iconic paintings of Milan have awakened your desire to explore some more of Italy , you’re in luck. Due to its central location, Milan offers a variety of wonderful day trips and with great public transport, they are easier than ever to take.

Day Trip to Lake Como

If you have been to Lake Garda, then you’ll know just how unforgettable the lakes of Italy are. Milanese are truly lucky because they aren’t just close to the largest lake in Italy, they are also less than two hours away from what is considered to be the most scenic lake in Italy – Como.  

Situated at the foothills of the Alps, this lake is shaped like a wishbone and houses some of the most vibrant and picturesque villages along its meandering shores. The calming aura and enchanting views surrounding the lake make it the perfect place to escape, unwind, and take a breath. Equally, if you’re after a fun filled day of adventure then there is plenty to do around the shores of Lake Como .

Visiting the many quaint and charismatic villages along the edges of the tranquil turquoise water is the perfect way to explore this region, whether by foot, boat, bike or car. This getaway is popular with locals escaping the city as well as the modern-day rich and famous from the world over. Just like in the days of ancient Rome, people flock to the opulent villas and lakeside towns of Lake Como.  

Suggested Trips – Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna: Full-Day Tour from Milan , Lake Como and Bellagio Day Trip from Milan

Day Trip to Turin 

Less than two hours from Milan, sitting right beside the river Po, Turin is a pleasant and captivating city. Turin was once the capital of Italy, and way before that, an epicentre of activities for the Romans. The city today has a thriving cosmopolitan buzz with an undercurrent of Roman charm.  

Like most cities in Italy, this one too can only be truly appreciated on foot. Walk the streets and be enchanted by the baroque architecture from up close. Once you’ve enjoyed a relaxing walk through the city, visit Mole Antonelliana. The spire of this former synagogue is an iconic part of the skyline of Turin. Today, this building serves as the National Museum of Cinema, one of the most visited museums in Italy.

Make your next stops Palazzo Reale and Palazzo Madama, two landmarks of the city. These two breathtaking structures are steeped in history and offer a glimpse at some of the most impressive Baroque architecture ever constructed. Designed by the legendary Filippo Juvarra, Palazzo Madama made such an impression on Napoleon he chose it as his place of residence in Turin.

History buff or not, a day trip from Milan to Turin is akin to travelling back in time. 

Suggested Trips – National Museum of Cinema & Mole Antonelliana Tour , Turin: Zoom Torino Admissions

Day Trip to Lugano

When we said Milan was ideally situated, we meant it. Visiting Milan means one day you’re in Italy and the next, you’re looking at the stunning mountain lakes of Switzerland. You can’t miss out on the opportunity to jump over the border, especially when one of Switzerland’s most beautiful towns is only an hour and sixteen minutes by train. 

Lugano is a lakeside city in the Italian speaking region of Switzerland. Located in the popular Ticino the city has a modern outlook with all the charm of a small Mediterranean town.

Located on the shores of the beautiful lake Lugano there is ample opportunity to explore on foot along the waterfront of the Old Town or on a cruise to one of the many smaller neighbouring villages. One of the highlights of the city is the San Lorenzo cathedral which dates back to the middle ages.

The two closest mountains to the city are Monte San Salvatore and Monte Brè, each offering incredible panoramic views of Lake Lugano, the town itself and the surrounding alpine scenery. The village of Brè on the slopes of the mountain offers a well preserved typical Ticino village to explore. So make sure to pack your walking boots for this trip!

If you fancy spending a little more time exploring this region a little further then why not stay at the lovely Luganodante in the city centre.

Day Trip to Genova

Nestled along the northern shores of the Ligurian Sea, the port city of Genova has an unmatched character you can’t find elsewhere. When the city defeated its rival, Pisa, in the 10 th century, it gained a reputation for its maritime power and is still home to the largest port in Italy. Its industrial side is contrasted by its reputation as the beautiful gateway to the Riviera, gothic cathedrals and grandiose architecture including the Unesco-listed Palazzi dei Rolli.

The narrow, hilly, and twisting alleys ( caruggi ) that make up the Old Town date back to the Middle Ages and have remained largely unchanged. Walking through the caruggi , you’ll get glimpses of huge houses, palazzos, and churches built by wealthy Genoese merchants of times gone by. The maze-like streets are a delight to wander, here you can be transported back to a time when the Republic of Genoa ruled over the Mediterranean. A bit like the bronzed ex-pats of the Costa-Del-Sol do these days!

This two-hour day trip from Milan is definitely worth taking. Genoa is in fact the largest medieval town in Europe, so it’s a pretty cool place to spend the day. Be sure to also check out the massive indoor market at Mercato Orientale Genova for a look at local life.

If you fancy visiting for a little longer the city has some wonderful hostels to stay the night.

Suggested Trips – Genova & Portofino Full-Day Tour from Milan  

Day Trip to Venice City

Take the high-speed train from Milan and reach the renowned city of Venice in just two and a half hours. Venice might be popular , but with good reason. The aura and mystic surrounding this city are well-founded, it really is like nowhere else in the world. Ornate marble palaces and grand piazzas built floating in a lagoon in true audacious Venitian style. Instead of cobbled streets, a warren of narrow canals leading to the aptly named, Grand Canal.

There is good reason this is one of the most hyped Milan Day trips, this floating city has endless amounts of charm offering a unique experience due to the outlandish nature of the ancient Venetians. From opulent gothic palaces and sumptuous domed basilicas to local neighbourhoods where the washing dries strung over quiet canals and kids play football in tiny courtyards. I’d be raging if some kids knocked my undies in the water!

Begin your exploration of this great city with St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), the beating majestic heart of Venice. This is the ultimate introduction to Venitian culture and architecture and it’s also home to many of the main sights you’ve come here to marvel at. The Byzantine spectacle of the Basilica di San Marco, the gothic Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s clocktower, and the Campanile are all here. The clocktower, in particular, gives great panoramic views over the city.

Make your next stop the Bridge of Sighs, the tragic yet beautiful architectural landmark that can’t be missed. The beauty of its design is only amplified by the irony that many prisoners crossed well aware of their ill fate, hence the sighs as they took their last look out at Venice.

Whilst exploring give yourself time to escape the busy streets and alleyways around St. Marks and just simply allow yourself time to get lost in the quieter more local areas too. If you decide to extend your trip, have a look at the awesome hostels Venice has to offer.

Suggested Trips – Venice: Full-Day Trip from Milan with Guided City Tour   

Day Trip to Bologna

Just under two and a half hours away is Bologna, a city of contrasts, it combines down to earth grit with regal opulence. Known as “Las Grassa” or “The Fat One”, it’s home to come of Italy’s finest restaurants, which is quite some feat lets be honest. You might have guessed already from the name, but the city is famous as the home of the ever popular ‘Bolognase’ sause. It would be rude not to give the authentic version a try… just don’t call it gravy (I’m looking at you America!)

If you fancy a challenge on your day trip from Milan to Bologna, how about scaling the Asinelli Tower, one of “ Le due torri ” that have become a symbol of the city. Both of these thin towers, constructed between 1109 and 1119 lean in opposite directions (Seriously, what is it with Italians and leaning towers !) Burn off some of that delicious food climbing the 498 narrow and rickety wooden steps to the top. If you dare to complete the climb you’ll be rewarded with some breathtaking views over the city, especially at sunset.

Bologna is also home to Europe’s oldest university – the University of Bologna– established in 1088. Despite it’s age, this is where the rebellious and politically active youth hang out, in graffiti filled piazzas and trendy cafes.

Then it’s time to walk the endless porticoes of Bologna and admire the unmatched architectural designs, the play of light and shadows, the symbolic columns, and the magnificent frescos. Many of the porticoes are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and some of them date back to the Middle Ages, while others were built as late as the 20 th century, to accommodate the ever-growing student population.  

Fancy staying a little longer? Check out the wondeful hostels Bologna has to offer.

Suggested Trips – City Centre Walking Tour

Day Trip to Varese

If you’re not in the mood for metropolitan hustle and bustle, and instead need some respite from chaotic city life, head over to sleepy Varese. Just 50 minutes from Milan, Varese is the ultimate getaway destination to help you stop, relax and take a breather.

Nicknamed “Garden City,” Varese is home to numerous public parks and gardens. It sits nestled at the foot of the Campo dei Fiori di Varese mountain and is surrounded by several expansive national parks including Cinque Vette Park which is home to another five mountain peaks. Here you get the charm of the countryside in a vibrant little city.

Varese is also known for it’s many Art Nouveau buildings and villas, including the famously abandoned, Grand Hotel Campo Dei Fiori that sits on the mountainside overlooking the city. How very ‘accidentally Wes Anderson!”

Once described as Milan’s little Versailles, it’s easy to see why when you visit the glorious Palazzo Estense. This Baroque palace completed in 1760 was once the home of dukes and nobility, today its the local town hall. Take in the best views from nearby Belvedere hill.

Take a laidback stroll down the main street of Corso Matteotti taking in the Mera Arch, the Basilica of San Vittore and the 12th century Baptistery of San Giuseppe which houses some amazingly preserved frescos.

If you want to take more time to explore, or even use Varese as a base to explore Milan and it’s surroundings given how close it is, why not check out this farmstay with a Lakeview .

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

When you visit Italy there really is so much to see and do and it’s all so varied with stunning mountain towns, majestic lakes dotted with villages and well preserved historic cities. Italy has something for everyone and it can be hard not to want to explore the entire country.

Thankfully, Milan is perfectly placed to take in the highlights of Northern Italy. The real challenge if you have limited time is picking which ones to visit, especially when there’s so much to do in Milan itself too. It is the perfectly preserved medival town of bergamo. The legendary floating city of Venice or the effortlessly sophisticated charm of Lake Como or Garda.

Which one-day trip from Milan will you choose for your adventure? Remember to stay somewhere in Milan close to good public transport links in order to maximise your time to explore.

Nic Hilditch-Short

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.