day trips from milan via train

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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 . 

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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?

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

Last Updated on March 12, 2024 by Michela

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 !

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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!

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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 July 2019 and updated February 2021

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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!

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12 Top-Rated Day Trips from Milan

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Jul 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Milan's position in Western Lombardy puts it within easy reach of several rewarding day trip destinations. The Alps are so close that you can see them from the roof of the Duomo. Fabled Lake Como is less than an hour by train, and there are several towns near Milan with magnificent churches and cathedrals.

The beautiful cities of Verona and Bergamo are easily accessible, as is Lake Garda. Because Milan is the rail hub of northern Italy, getting to any of these places by train is easy, and high-speed trains make it possible to take a day trip from Milan to Venice or even to the Cinque Terre. Packaged day tours often make it even easier to explore beyond the city.

You can choose the best places to visit by referring to our handy list of the top day trips from Milan.

1. Lake Como

2. verona and lake garda, 3. bernina express to st. moritz, 5. florence, 7. cinque terre, 8. lake maggiore and the borromean islands, 9. bergamo's citta alta, 10. brescia's roman treasures, map of day trips from milan.

Direct trains from either Milan's Stazione Nord or Stazione Centrale take about 30 minutes to reach the small city of Como, at the southern shore of Lake Como. From here, boats leave regularly, stopping at one after another of the lakeside towns, each prettier than the last and each with its own attractions for tourists .

Within a few minutes' walk of the landings are beautiful gardens and villas, art-filled churches, and narrow lanes of smart shops. One of the prettiest towns on Como is Bellagio , set at the tip of a peninsula that divides southern Lake Como into two long arms.

Como itself is worth some time to see its cathedral; the rare frescoes in the 11th-century Basilica of Sant'Abbondio ; and the views from the top of the Brunate funicular, which climbs from the lake shore near the boat landing.

You can easily see Como's Roman origins by the neat grid of streets; one impressive Roman gate survives. The fact that Como was once a major center for silk production makes shopping for silk neckties, scarves, and clothing one of the most popular things to do here.

You can combine a guided walking tour of the town of Como with a scenic lake cruise on the nine-hour Lake Como Day Trip from Milan . The tour varies seasonally, with a stop in lovely Bellagio from April to October and a funicular ride up to Brunate for sweeping lake and mountain views November through March.

• Read More From Milan to Lake Como: Best Ways to Get There

The happy blend of Roman antiquities, medieval streetscapes, and the romance of Shakespeare's tragic (though fictional) heroine Juliet puts Verona near the top of everyone's best places to visit in Italy list . In the center of the historic district stands one of Italy's best-preserved Roman arenas , the site of a major summer opera festival .

A few streets away, the riverside castle has been brilliantly repurposed into an art museum, with fine views of the castellated bridge below. At least four of the city's churches are landmarks of Italian architecture and decorative art. There are several Roman gates and subterranean excavations from the same period to explore, but few of Verona's attractions get as many tourists as Juliet's house and balcony.

The two-hour train ride from Milan to Verona passes along the southern shore of Lake Garda , Italy's largest lake. The well-kept town of Sirmione , at the tip of a peninsula that extends into the lake, is worth a stop for its moated castle and the extensive remains of Grotte di Catullo, a Roman villa and spa.

Or you can combine romantic Verona with a visit to Sirmione on a full-day Verona and Lake Garda Day Trip from Milan . The two-hour guided walking tour of Verona is highlighted by visits to the Roman arena and the house commemorating the story of Romeo and Juliet. There is plenty of time to explore Sirmione and its castle before the coach ride back to Milan.

It's a long day, but you can get a taste of the magnificent Alpine scenery north of Milan by making the two-hour train ride to Tirano and boarding the scenic Bernina Express. In two and a half hours, you'll cross 196 bridges, go through 55 tunnels, and cross breathtaking gorges as you climb the Bernina Pass and descend into Switzerland .

The "Little Red Train" has wide vista windows for full views and good photography from every seat. The Bernina Express ends in the legendary Swiss ski resort of St. Moritz , overlooking a lake and the Engadin Alps. The train runs year-round, and the views are equally good in summer or winter.

On the guided Swiss Alps Bernina Express Rail Tour from Milan , you can travel by coach to board the train in Tirano, with time to explore not only that Alpine town but chic St. Moritz as well.

Venice is only 2.5 hours from Milan, and it would be a shame to visit northern Italy without seeing this fabled city, one of the most popular places to go in all Italy. On a day trip, you can easily see the highlights of Venice , including St. Mark's Square , the Basilica of St. Mark , the Grand Canal , the Bridge of Sighs, the Doge's Palace , and Rialto Bridge, and wander in the maze of streets and along the colorful canals.

You can get here by train or travel by coach on a Venice Day Trip from Milan , with a guide who will add historical insights to your visit. The 14-hour trip includes a guided walking tour and a visit to a glass-blowing workshop, along with plenty of free time to sample Venetian restaurants and take an optional gondola ride.

Read More: From Milan to Venice: Best Ways to Get There

Because of Italy's high-speed train lines, you can whizz from Milan to the Renaissance city of Florence in just two hours, leaving plenty of time for seeing the main tourist attractions .

Several of the top sights are an easy walk from the train station: Piazza del Duomo , with the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and Baptistery; Santa Maria Novella; Michelangelo's magnificent Medici tombs in San Lorenzo; Piazza della Signoria ; and the Palazzo Vecchio .

An easy and time-saving way to get from one attraction to the next is with a hop-on-hop-off bus ticket, included in a Florence Day Trip from Milan by Train tour. This tour not only stops at the attractions in the old Centro Storico (historic center) but will take you across the Arno to the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens and up to the scenic overlook of Piazzale Michelangiolo. If art is on your agenda, you can add a skip-the-line admission ticket to the fabled Uffizi Gallery to this tour package.

In only 1.25 hours from Milan by train, you can spend a day in the city that the Dukes of Savoy designed as the Paris of the South . This elegant city of broad avenues and piazzas lined by arcades is a pleasure just to stroll around, but the sightseeing opportunities include a sumptuous Royal Palace , a heart-stopping ride in a glass elevator to the top of The Mole for views of the snowcapped Savoy Alps, and one of the world's foremost collections of Egyptian antiquities .

Turin is known for its cafés, where you'll feel as though you'd stepped back into the city's Golden Age as you sip a bicerin - Turin's own signature coffee/chocolate drink - and nibble delectable pastries.

For those who feel they must include something of ancient Rome in their Italy trip, there is an impressive Roman gate within sight of the church that houses the legendary Shroud of Turin (which is not on public display).

The trip between the five villages known as the Cinque Terre , whether by boat, train, or on foot, is one of the most enjoyable experiences in Italy. The tiny towns are separated by stretches of steep cliffs and connected by a narrow and often precipitous walking trail, and by a train line that tunnels through the rocky headlands between towns.

The colorful villages ooze charm, and although they are clearly not undiscovered, they still look much as they did before they became one of the most popular destinations in Italy.

While exploring the Cinque Terre in one day on your own is more complicated, from April through October you can take a 12-hour Cinque Terre Day Trip from Milan to see the highlights of this beautiful coast. The five villages of this UNESCO-listed region sit on a steep, cliff-lined shore south of Genoa , and after a scenic coach ride along the Mediterranean coast, you'll travel between them by boat and train.

There's free time to explore Monterosso and Manarola, have lunch in your choice of local restaurants, or to take a walk on the coastal path for even more breathtaking views. The trip between the five villages, whether by boat, train or on foot, is one of the top itineraries in Italy.

• Read More: From Milan to Cinque Terre: Best Ways to Get There

One of the favorite things to do on Lake Maggiore , north of Milan, is island hopping among the three islands near the holiday town of Stresa. After a ride as short as 1.25 hours by fast train, you can take a boat to visit all three islands, their gardens, and palaces - and have time for a lakeside dinner in Stresa before boarding the train back to Milan.

Go first to Isola Bella , entirely filled by the sumptuous 17 th -century summer palace of Count Vitaliano Borromeo and his over-the-top terraced gardens. Citrus and cedar trees, cork oaks, and camellias overlook manicured beds of colorful flowers, with the lake and mountains as a backdrop.

More gardens and a less elaborate palace are on Isola Madre , and the small Isola dei Pescatori is a quaint fishing village with - as you might expect - restaurants serving lake fish. A good way to see all three on your own schedule is on a Lake Maggiore Isola Bella Hop-On Hop-Off Ferry Tour from Stresa, spending as much time exploring the palace and gardens as you like.

On a steep hill, directly above the tidy street grid of new Bergamo, the old city is a tangle of narrow, stone-paved streets lined by buildings dating to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Reach it by a funicular or by streets that wind upwards to the impressive gates in the 16th-century bastions .

Inside this atmospheric walled village lie most of Bergamo's artistic and historic attractions , many of them clustered around the sloping Piazza Vecchia .

The 12th-century Palazzo della Ragione, with its triple-arched loggia and impressive stone staircase, joins with the tall tower, Torre del Comune , to form the upper side of the square, which is bounded on the other sides by noble houses and a Renaissance palazzo.

At the top of the city, just behind the Palazzo della Ragione, are the Duomo and Santa Maria Maggiore , a Romanesque basilica begun in the early 1100s. The latter church is sumptuous inside and out, with Gothic entrance porches, Baroque stucco work, and beautiful Renaissance choir stalls.

Adjoining it is the Cappella Colleoni , an early Renaissance funeral chapel decorated inside and out with multicolored marble inlay, and a ceiling painted by Tiepolo. Opposite the chapel is an unusual octagonal Baptistery dating from 1340. About 40 kilometers from Milan, Bergamo is on a direct train line.

Brescia is in good company – too good, in fact. Surrounded by some of Italy's top places to visit – Lake Como, Lake Garda, Verona, Milan – many tourists seem to hurry past without stopping. That's a shame because Brescia is only an hour from Milan by train (half that on a fast train) and has the finest collection of Roman remains in northern Europe .

You can stand in the forum and look down into the ancient street with its excavated shop fronts; above rise the impressive columns of the first-century Tempio Capitolino , which you can tour to see its remaining chambers and colored marble floors. Next to it is the 3rd-century Teatro Romano.

But the highlight of Brescia's Roman treasures is the Civici Musei d'Arte e Storia Santa Giulia , a complex that includes an original Roman villa and other homes with stunning mosaic floors. Walkways allow you to admire the fine detail at close range, and artifacts of this and later eras are beautifully displayed and interpreted. But this is only part of the museum that contains entire Lombard and Romanesque churches, a frescoed Nuns' Choir, and a treasury filled with gold work.

This is no ordinary museum, and you won't be sharing the experience or the rest of the attractions in Brescia with a lot of other tourists.

From its prominence as a major Roman capital, Pavia grew into an important university city, known today for its medieval and Renaissance buildings, and for the remaining examples of its original 100 medieval towers.

The impressive 14th-century Castello Visconti retains two of its immense towers and now houses history and art museums. Emperors, including Charlemagne, were crowned in the Romanesque Church of San Michele , and Pavia's cathedral is based on the designs of da Vinci and Bramante.

To see the remaining medieval watch towers , head for Piazza di Leonardo di Vinci, where there are several. The Ponte Coperto is an arched covered bridge over the Ticino River, rebuilt after World War II bombing destroyed the 14th-century bridge. That one was itself a reconstruction of the original Roman bridge.

The crowning attraction of Pavia lies eight kilometers to the north, the Certosa di Pavia , whose monastery is one of the finest Renaissance buildings in all Italy, showing the transition from late Gothic to Renaissance styles. The facade is a riot of marble inlay, friezes, delicate columns, and statues of saints.

Designed as the mausoleum for Milan's ruling Visconti family (you can see the magnificent tomb of the founder, Gian Galeazzo Visconti), it used many of the same artists and architects that created Milan's Duomo. You can tour the church on your own, but to see the exquisite small cloister and the artistic highlights of the monastic buildings, you must join one of the frequent free tours given by the monks.

Sitting at the foot of Mount Campo dei Fiori, Varese is best known for the Sacro Monte di Varese , a series of 17th-century chapels with frescoes and larger-than-life figures depicting Biblical scenes. The tradition of the Sacro Monte is unique to Italy's northern Piedmont and Lombardy, and Varese's joins eight other hillside pilgrimage sites on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Unlike the others, Varese's is surrounded by a village that climbs the steep hillside, surrounding the chapels with tree-shaded streets and villas in the Art Nouveau style - called Liberty style in Italy. In the center of Varese, Palazzo Estense is the richly decorated former villa of the d'Este family, built in the 1700s below a hillside park and terraced formal gardens.

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Where to Go from Milan : Italy shares both Lake Maggiore and the smaller Lake Lugano with Switzerland, and this Swiss region known as the Ticino is an appealing blend of Swiss and Italian cultures. Winter sports enthusiasts will find Milan a perfect base for reaching Italy's top ski resorts , as it is close to the Dolomites, the Savoy Alps, and Europe's highest Alpine peaks along the Italian/French border.

Exploring More of Italy : After seeing the beautiful gardens around northern Italy's three major lakes, you may want to visit more of the most beautiful gardens in Italy . For suggestions of other places to visit, see our page on the top things to do in Italy .

More on Italy

15+ Best Day Trips From Milan You Must Take

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 4th February 2022

Categories Italy

Last Updated on 4th February 2022 by Sophie Nadeau

When heading to Northern Italy, Milan is a perfect place to base yourself. After all, it’s the capital of Lombardy region, has some of the best transport links in the boot-shaped country and is a perfect starting point for plenty of excursions. Here are 15+ day trips from Milan worth taking (and I’m sure you’ll find one you’ll like, there’s enough for each day of an entire fortnight!):

#1 University town of Pavia

#2 pretty town of padua/ padova.

• #3 Lake Como (towns of Como and Lecco)

#4 Alpine city of Turin/ Torino

#5 hilltop town of bergamo, #6 the historical town of brescia, #7 certosa di pavia, #8 city of parma, #9 sleeping beauty town of mantua/ mantova, #10 the town of lodi, #11 romeo and juliet’s verona, #12 the canals of venice/ venezia, #13 the seaside resort of genoa/ genova, #14 art nouveau city of varese, #15 the five lands of the cinque terre, #16 the unesco bernina express, #17 lake maggiore, #18 university town of bologna, things to know before visiting milan, enjoyed reading about the very best day trips from milan you simply must take pin it now, read it again later:.

Book now: From Milan Full-Day Pavia & Oltrepo Pavese Tou r

Designated a UNESCO world heritage site, the city of Pavia has a Duomo Da Vinci had a hand in designing, plenty of cobbled lanes and one of the oldest universities in Italy. As such, it is packed with historical things to do (including plenty of university museums), and a covered bridge that finds its roots in medieval times.

Milan to Pavia: The easiest way to get to Pavia is by train. After all, the city of Pavia is located on the tracks between Milan and Genoa and Pavia takes just over forty-five minutes to reach from Milano. Alternatively, you can book a guided tour.

Famously known as the setting for Shakespeare’s ‘The Taming of the Shrew’, Padua is located in the province of Padua in Italy’s Veneto region. Some of the best things to do in Padua include visiting the city’s huge Byzantine basilica, visiting the University of Padua (the place of learning dates all the way back to 1222) , and enjoying some of the city’s café culture.

Milan to Pauda: The best way to reach Padua is by a train which takes just under two hours. Get up earlier in the day to make the most of your time in the city.

#3 Lake Como (towns of C omo and Lecco)

Book a tour now: Lake Como and Bellagio day trip

Glistening lakes overlooking snowy peaks: no, this isn’t the opening scenes of a Disney movie. It’s real life and you can find these fairytale scenes on the fringes of Lake Como in Northern Lombardy.

Best visited in the late spring, summer, or early autumn (you’ll want warm, sunny weather to best enjoy the lakes of Italy), highlights of Lake Como include plenty of castles, as well as the beautiful towns of Como and Lecco.

Milan to Como: Reaching the lakes of Lombardy from Milano is much easier than you might expect. You’ll want a car if you want to explore some of the Italian countryside on the way to Como.

However, if you’re sticking with public transport, then there’s a direct train from Milan to Como and it takes just under an hour each way. Alternatively, you can book a guided tour from Milan.

Located in the Piedmont region of Italy, Turin is surrounded by mountains and filled with history. Often dubbed the chocolate capital of Italy, you can’t go wrong by dedicating a day of your Italian adventure to exploring the city’s many attractions.

Highlights of Torino include visiting the cathedral where the Turin Shroud is housed (the Shroud itself is only placed on display once every decade or so for preservation purposes) , ascending the Mole Antonelliana (often dubbed the ‘Eiffel Tower of Italy’) and sampling some local Piedmontese cuisine. Turin is also home to one of the most important Egyptian collections housed outside of Egypt.

Milan to Turin: You can reach Torino in just over an hour from Milano if you opt for one of the regular high-speed trains that will whisk you from the city centre to city centre. While this option is admittedly faster, if you want to budget, then you can take a slow train that is half the price of the speedy one.

Book now: Bergamo Bus Transfer to/from Milan City Cente

Of all the cities near Milan, the city of Bergamo should top your list as one of the best places to visit in Italy. After all, one of the biggest mistakes people planning a trip to the North of Italy make is that they miss out on the beautiful town of Bergamo!

When booking budget flights to Bergamo’s international airport, people often assume that this underrated gem of Italy is not worth a visit, and so they skip the city entirely. However, Bergamo is beautiful, filled with historical sites and is a must-see for architecture lovers.

Milan to Bergamo: Just under an hour. That’s all you need to get away from the hustle and bustle of busy Milan life and straight into the time warp that is Bergamo. The easiest way to reach Bergamo is by train and tickets cost just 6 or 7 euro each way. Alternatively, you can get a bus between the two Italian cities.

The Celtic turned Roman town of Brescia is located in the Lombardy region of Italy, just like Milan. Highlights of this historically rich settlement include a castle, museums filled with Roman aretefacts, and ecclesiastical buildings filled with frescoes dating back centuries.

Milan to Brescia: If you want to reach Brescia, then the easiest way to do so is by train. One single train takes just thirty-five minutes and so Brescia makes an easy day trip from Milano. A trip to Brescia can easily be combined with a visit to nearby Lake Garda. After all, the beautiful town lies on the shore of the iconic lake.

Often cited as one of the best examples of Italian Renaissance architecture, the Certosa di Pavia is one of those must-see Lombardy attractions on any trip to Northern Italy. Located 8km North of Pavia, admire the unique blend of Renaissance Architecture meets Gothic style in this family mausoleum turned monastery.

Milan to Certosa di Pavia: A visit to the beautiful monastery of can be taken in conjunction with a trip to the nearby town of the same name, Pavia, or can be done just on its own. After all, if you head there in the early afternoon or early morning, there is rather a lot to see!

The city of Parma, located in Emila-Romagna is named like the ham (yes, really!). Although this city is most famous for its prosciutto meat cuts and cheese, there’s plenty to see for the non-meat eating traveller as well!

From Parma’s beautiful architecture to its extensive collection of Caravaggio’s work located throughout the city including inside the Duomo and in the city’s impressive National Gallery.

Milan to Parma:  Milano to Parma takes an hour and a half if you choose the more expensive train (though fast trains often cost double the price of their slower counterparts, you’ll save oodles of time, ensuring that you can get the most out of your Italian trip!)

If you’re looking for a glimpse into what an Italian city must have been like centuries ago, then head to Mantua. Often dubbed the ‘sleeping beauty town of Italy’ thanks to little change in architecture and pace of life over the centuries, Mantua is well worth a visit and totally worth your time!

Milan to Mantua:  In order to reach Mantova from Milano, you’ll need to take a train (or two depending on times) . If you take just one train and don’t need to change, the trip will take around an hour and fifty minutes. Opt for the slower choice and take two trains, and Milan to Mantua will take over two and a half hours!

Located just 19km south of Milan, the pretty town of Lodi is an easy day trip from Milan. Oh, and if you’re a fan of parmesan, then you’ll love Lodi. After all, it’s said to have some of the best cheese in all of Italy. Once a Celtic village known as ‘Laus Pompeia’, the city has seen plenty of changes over the years, and has a rich history spanning centuries.

Highlights of Lodi include the Piazza della Vittoria (one of the most beautiful town squares in Italy), Visconti Castle (a partially destroyed medieval fortress), and plenty of Baroque churches. Elsewhere in the city, you’ll find plenty of cobbled lanes and some great Italian food. You can even book a hot air balloon ride.

Milan to Lodi:  Head to Lodi if you want to embark on one of the fastest day trips from Milan. After all, if you catch a fast train you’ll end up in the city centre within half an hour. Lodi makes for the perfect trip for those pressed for time and searching for a quirky Italian adventure.

Book a tour now: Verona and Lake Garda day trip from Milan

At two hours away from Milan, Verona is a little further from the Lombardy capital than other day trips from Milan on this list. However, the beautiful city of love, made famous by Shakespeare’s play, is totally worth a visit and is totally worth your time.

Stroll around the city in search of Juliet (Juliet’s tomb and the Casa di Giulietta are both tourist hotspots) , enjoy the architecture and be amazed by the city’s central Roman amphitheatre that has truly stood the test of time.

Milan to Verona:  Train times from Milano to Verona vary depending on the time of day you travel. Journey times to Verona typically take between an hour and a half and two hours. Opt to visit the city earlier in the day to avoid the inevitable crowds you’ll find in Verona later in the day. Alternatively, you can book a guided trip to Verona like this one.

Book a tour now: Venice day trip from Milan

If you’re looking to go a little further afield from Milan yet again, then it’s possible to take a day trip from Milan to Venice. The world famous canals and floating houses are iconic throughout Europe and beyond for their beauty and sheer structural genius.

Highlights of Venice include a wander through Piazza San Marco (the city’s main square has plenty of architectural gems), the Doge’s Palace (a gothic style museum), and Saint Mark’s Basilica (one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe).

Milan to Venice:  As it takes roughly the same amount of time to reach Venezia by car or by public transport, the easiest way to reach the city is clearly by train! Trains from Milan to Venice typically take three hours (a long time to be sitting on a train when there are so many beautiful Italian attractions much closer to Milan!) Alternatively, you can book a guided day trip to Venice.

Book a tour now: Genova and Portofino day trip from Milan

If you were to pick just one place to visit in the Liguria region of Italy, then you should choose the pretty seaside resort town of Genoa. As the capital of Liguria, the city is best known for its maritime history and is the sixth-largest city in the boot-shaped country, meaning that there are plenty of things to see and do!

Must-see Genoa attractions include impressive fountains, the expansive city walls that were once the longest walls in Italy, and an impressive mountainside fort by the name of ‘Forte Begato’. Other Genova highlights include many a museum and plenty of pretty streets!

Milan to Genoa: Milan has a direct train line running through Pavia to Genoa. Trains from the centre of Milan take approximately an hour and a half to reach Genoa if you choose the high-speed train. Alternatively, you can book a guided tour to Genova like this one.

Obscure map of Genoa, dated 1800

Located to the North of Lombardy, in a place where . the alps meet the glittering lakes, the Art Nouveau city of Varese is characterised by its many beautiful villas, nestled in the hills surrounding the city.

Of particular note is the rather impressive ‘Sacro Monte di Varese,’ a sacred calvary comprising of 14 fresco chapels, and a sacred path, culminating in a breathtakingly beautiful chapel at the top of the hill.

Milan to Varese: From Milan to the city of Varese it takes just one hour on the train. Alternatively, it takes just one hour to drive between Milano and Varese, and so the choice is totally up to you! Should you choose to take a car, you’ll soon discover that the countryside surrounding Varese is just as pretty as the city itself.

Book a tour now: Cinque Terre day trip from Milan

Beautiful and popular among tourists and locals alike, Cinque Terre (literally translated as ‘five lands’ in English) is a set of five stunning coastal towns set alongside the Western coast of Italy. Populated by pretty houses and interconnected by winding mountainous pathways.

Milan to Cinque Terre: It’s perfectly possible to take yourself on a self-guided day trip from Milan to the five lands via train. However, the journey takes between three and four hours by train. Even if you rent a car, you’ll be looking at a three hour journey time, making this one of the longest Milan day trips. Alternatively, you can book a guided tour to Cinque Terre like this one .

Book a tour now: Bernina and St Moritz day trip from Milan

Truth be told, of all the Milan day trips you could take, venturing out onto the Bernina Express for a day of sightseeing from the comfort of a train is one of the best experiences you could hope to have.

The Bernina train is essentially a picturesque train track that connects Switzerland with Northern Italy, passing through mountainscapes as it wends its way past glaciers and ancient towns.

Though slightly less famous than Lake Como, one of the most beautiful day trips from Milan is that of Lake Maggiore, a stunning body of water in the province of Varese to the Northern part of Italy. Once there, some of the best things to do include exploring the Borromean Islands and visiting the many lakeside towns dotted across Maggiore.

Milan to Lake Maggiore: The easiest way to get from Milan to Lake Maggiore is by renting a car as this will allow you the flexibility you need (and without time constraints) in order to see the many different towns and villages and other attractions around the body of the lake.

If you’re looking for one of the very best day trips from Milan with oodles of history, then you’ll find all this and more if you hop on a train to Bologna. The city of Bologna is the oldest in its entire region and has a metropolitan area of around one million people.

Once an Etruscan city, Bologna’s university was established as early as 1088. Asides from wandering the cobbled lanes, checking out Italy’s coffee culture and sampling local cuisine, some of the best things to do in Bologna include climbing to the tops of the Torre Asinelli (medieval towers) , and visiting the stunning Basilica of San Luca (a church which resides on a hill overlooking the entire city). 

Milan to Bologna: To reach the town that’s home to the oldest university in the world, you’ll need to just take one train from Milan, that takes exactly an hour to reach Bologna! This is easily one of the best day trips from Milan as you can soak up some history directly under the Emilia-Romagna sun.

The stunning Northern Italian city of Milano is best-known as being the fashion capital of the boot-shaped country. Mode aside, the capital of Lombardy is also home to an impressive Duomo, beautiful canal district, and even a bar designed by Wes Anderson, Bar Luce. Even if you only have one day in Milan itself, you’ll soon discover that there’s more to this Northern Italian city than meets the eye.

With this being said, Milan has seen a real surge of popularity and an increase in tourism over the past decade or so. This means that even if you visit during the European shoulder season, you’ll likely find that most hotels and B&Bs get booked up pretty quickly.

As such, I highly recommend booking well in advance (as in, as soon as you’ve booked your flights to visit)! Check the best Milan accommodation rates here.

Finally, you’ll soon discover that everyone speaks great English, especially in the tourism industry. However, it’s only polite to learn some basic Italian . I personally recommend learning how to say ‘please,’ ‘thank you,’ ‘hello,’ and ‘sorry’ to get you started.

Otherwise, you might want to bring along an Italian phrasebook like this one . For travelling around Europe, a universal adapter like this one is a must, so you can keep your essentials (phone, kindle, tablet) charged as you travel.

If you’re looking for even more inspiration about the boot-shaped country, then be sure to check out our best travel  quotes about Italy . And if you need to know more information before heading to the South of Europe, check out our  top Italy travel tips.

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Friday 25th of May 2018

in Parma, it is the works of Corregio not Caravaggio that one can see.

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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!

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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 

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.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Nic Hilditch-Short

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Day trips from Milan under a two hour train ride away

by Asdghik Ashley Melkonian

Table of Contents

Verona, Italy

Genoa, italy, lugano, switzerland, lake como, italy, bologna, italy, parma, italy, turin, italy.

Milan is a great base for visiting the beautiful lakes and neighboring regions in Italy and Switzerland. Hop on a short train ride to enjoy amazing day trips at one of these cities that are reachable in under 2 hours:

Travel time from Milan: 1hr 30min                    

The medieval city of Verona is best known for being the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. In fact, you can visit Juliet’s house and climb up the stairs to reach her famous balcony overlooking a small courtyard. I must warn you, it’s usually so overcrowded with tourists and not as impressive as you would imagine. Legend has it that if you rub Juliet’s breast, you will have tremendous luck in your love life, so I just had to try it myself!

My favorite part of visiting Verona was getting lost in the little streets and eating the best Italian food I have ever had in my life. I stumbled across a small restaurant called  “Enoteca Cangrande” and I still dream of their pasta everyday.

Don’t leave Verona without watching one of their world-famous operas in the 1st century arena. The opera is in fully in Italian, but even if you don’t understand a word the experience is well worth it.

Juliet’s Courtyard Verona

Verona Arena

Travel time from Milan: 1hr 40min

The port city of Genoa is famous for its baroque architecture and cozy alleyways. You can spend your day in one of the many cute cafes, go for a boat ride or visit one of Europe’s biggest aquariums. You must try some of their seafood dishes and of course Pesto sauce which originated from Genoa.

Related article: Bergamo Travel Guide

Travel time from Milan: 1hr 10min

Cross the border into Switzerland to visit one of the prettiest towns in the area. Lugano is a small city with colorful buildings and a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains. The best part is that you can see all of it by foot. After you exit the train station, walk downhill towards the lake and enjoy a drink at the cozy cafes. If you pass any of the chocolate shops, you can’t but go inside. With hundreds of flavors to choose from, you will end up getting your sugar fix for quite some time, but don’t worry you will burn all the calories on your way back up to the train station. If the weather permits, rent one of the small paddle boats on the lake to catch the best views of the city.

Hotel recommendations in Milan

Budget hotels: Ramada Plaza Hotel ,  AC Hotel Milano, a Marriott Lifestyle Hotel

Mid-Range hotels:  Crowne Plaza Milan City ,  LaGare Hotel Milano Centrale – MGallery by Sofitel

Luxury hotels: Armani Hotel Milano , Mandarin Oriental Milan , Bulgari Hotel Milano

Lake Como is a spectacular lake popular for its fresh air, mountains, luxurious properties and great weather. Bellagio is the most famous village (with good reason), best known for its world-class hotels and restaurants. The best way to see some of the impressive properties is by taking a boat ride around the lake. Some of the celebrities that own houses in Como include George Clooney and Richard Branson.

Travel time from Milan: 1hr

The historical city of Bologna is a must-visit for food lovers. It’s named “Italy’s gastronomical capital” and is famous for producing some of the most delicious pasta and sausages in the world. Wandering along the medieval streets of the city, you will come across museums, art galleries and cafes.

Imagine the perfect combination of art, music and gastronomy… that’s what you will find in Parma. If you think the word Parma sounds familiar, it’s probably because you’ve heard of Parma ham or Parmesan cheese, which both originated from this beautiful city. You can do a pit stop in Parma on your way to Bologna.

Travel time from Milan: 50min

Turin is an elegant city with charming wide streets, but quite often overshadowed by its neighboring well-known cities. Two things that stand out in Turin are sports cars and chocolate. Head for a stroll around Piazza Castello and you will get to see most of the famous sites.

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

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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.

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Bergamo Day Trip from Milan: One Day Itinerary

Before getting to Milan, I heard nothing but not-so-great-things about the city. Determined to walk away from Milan having liked it, I decided to explore anything and everything worth visiting in its area. I knew I had a saved image of this pretty, walled, hilltop town from Instagram a while back, and I recalled it wasn’t far from Milan. So I scrolled back through all my saved images until I finally found it! It was called Bergamo, and upon further research, I learned that walled hilltop town was actually just a portion of the city. Bergamo, as you may or may not know, is divided into two districts . The older district, called the Città (pronounced chee-tah) Alta, sits on top of a hill. The Città Alta is encircled by Venetian walls (named a UNESCO World Heritage site !), and can be reached by funicular from the newer district below, called the Città Bassa . If all this alone doesn’t warrant a visit, I don’t know what does! So without further ado, let’s get straight into how to visit Bergamo on a day trip from Milan .

This is a super detailed guide on how to visit Bergamo via public transport from Milan. You might want to bookmark or Pin this article for later if you don’t have time to get through it now. It includes a secret-ish unlimited travel pass for the day (that many Milanese locals don’t even know about!), key sights in Bergamo, maps , and prices . I did this day trip myself, so if you still have questions by the end of this guide, definitely drop a comment below, and I’ll get back to you on it!

HOW TO GET TO BERGAMO FROM MILAN

Start the day in Milan, and head to Milano Centrale (pronounced chen-tral-eh) train station. This is the only train station in Milan with direct trains to Bergamo . If you are staying closer to Milano Lambrate or Milano Greco Pirelli, you can reach Bergamo via train with one transfer, but I do not recommend this option for two reasons. Firstly, making a connection always complicates a trip. It’s more work, and if your first train arrives late, you’ll miss your second train and be stuck waiting for the next one in the middle of nowhere. Secondly, and as previously mentioned, I’ll be sharing how to use an all-day unlimited travel pass , so you can simply metro over to Milano Centrale for no additional cost for the day!

Recommended reading: The Perfect Two Week Italy Itinerary (especially for your first time!)

From Milano Centrale you will take a fifty-minute train ride to Bergamo . Direct trains leave Milano Centrale for Bergamo at five minutes past the hour, every hour, but always double-check the train schedule the night before on the Trenitalia website . 

Unlimited Lombardy Region Transport Ticket

Instead of buying a typical train ticket , I highly recommend you purchase what’s called the “Io Viaggio Ovunque in Lombardia” ticket . This translates to “I Travel Everywhere in Lombardy,” the region with Milan, Bergamo, Lake Iseo, and even Lake Como. This ticket is good for public transport – buses, trains, funiculars – within Lombardy, except the ferries on Lake Como, high-speed trains, ItaloTreno trains, intercity trains, and some other exceptions you can find on the official site . You can buy a pass for 1, 2, 3, or 7 days , good for until midnight of the last day. (So if you buy a one-day pass, it is good until midnight that first day, not 24-hours later.)

Prices for the “Io Viaggio Ovunque in Lombardia” ticket are:

• 1 day €16.50
• 2 days €27.00
• 3 days €32.50
• 7 days €43.50

The regional train ticket to Bergamo costs €5.50 each way, so €11 round trip. You’ll also need to purchase a round-trip funicular ticket from Bergamo Città Bassa to Città Alta, which will put you close to €16.50. As you’ll see later in the itinerary, I recommend another round funicular trip as well, so before even adding any bus or metro rides, the one-day unlimited pass already makes the most sense . It’s a really good deal, so I’m surprised it seems to be such a secret!!

You can purchase this ticket from a Trenord ticket vending machine in the train station, or from any Milan metro station ticket machine. I’ve linked the official page for this ticket here in case you’d like more info.

Related Reading: The Best Day Trips from Milan – all doable with direct trains.

HOW TO GET TO BERGAMO CITTA ALTA

Once you arrive in Bergamo train station, head straight outside and locate the bus stops on your right side. Take the 1 bus heading for Città Alta . (So the screen on the front-top of the bus should say something like, “1 CITTA ALTA.”) This will take you to the base of the hill, from which you’ll take the funicular up to the walled old town. 

Warning : there are a ton of bus stops clustered all right in the same area, heading both directions, so it can be confusing to find the right one. I had to walk all around for quite some time and ask the staff at an entirely unrelated private tour company before locating the correct one. To make sure you don’t have to do the same, I’ve provided the below map with the exact location for you below.

On the bus ride, you’ll start to see the fairytale-like Città Alta. I wasn’t expecting how cool the contrast of the walled old town right up against the modern Città Bassa would look! And although the Città Alta is what I came to see, the bus ride down the Città Bassa was very pretty as well, inspiring me to make sure to walk around it later on.

Once the bus nears the hill, it will make a right turn upwards. This is your signal to request the next stop !! Get off, and walk across to the other side of the street, where the funicular awaits. I’ve provided a map below, just in case.

THINGS TO DO IN BERGAMO CITTA ALTA

Before you know it (roughly 1.5 hours since departing Milan), you’re finally at Bergamo’s Città Alta! I recommend allocating at least three hours for exploring the Città Alta and eating lunch, but there’s definitely no rush. 

Many places on the main street offer a lunch meal deal , which is what I had. I paid €10 for bread, my choice between two entrees, a drink (alcoholic or non), and a coffee at the end to wash it all down. There was no cover charge, so service was included!

Bergamo isn’t super touristy. Like….at all! It’s awesome. So take your time enjoying the views, finding peaceful streets, and checking out the few “attractions.”

Torre Civica

The largest cluster of “attractions” are in Piazza Vecchia . Here, you will find the Palazzo del Podesta, el Palazzo del Comune, el Palazzo della Ragione, and the Cappella Colleoni. This is also where you’ll find the Torre Civica . For €5, you can climb the tower for what seems to be a lovely panoramic view. I forwent this climb, so I can’t say from personal experience!

Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore

My favorite building was probably the Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore , also located in the Piazza Vecchia. I loved the pinkish-orange colors of the exterior. The interior of the basilica truly impressed me as well (and, trust me, I’ve definitely seen no shortage of European churches!). The ceilings looked like a painting turned into 3D. I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many sculptures along the top of a building before!

Cattedrale di Sant’Alessandro

Right near this basilica is the Bergamo Cathedral of Sant’Alessandro . I found the exterior and interior of this church less striking than those of its neighbor across the piazza, but still easy on the eyes, nevertheless.

Both churches were closed the first time I walked by them. But when I doubled-back later on, they were open. The hours were very confusing to read for me in Italian, so I unfortunately cannot share those details confidently. I did not pay to enter either church.

In addition to these “attractions,” I highly recommend just walking around town aimlessly for some time! You’ll find additional pretty views, detailed churches, outdoor restaurants, and more.

Ride a Funicular Up to San Vigilio

Before heading back down to the Città Bassa, I highly recommend taking a funicular from the Città Alta further up to San Vigilio . The station is a bit behind the official Città Alta area, so I’ve provided a map below.

Exit to the left once you reach the top. From here, you can finally fully appreciate the full picture of the walled Città Alta high above the rest of the area. Leave the station, and explore the area before heading back down. You’ll find Castello di San Vigilio , as well as views of other nearby towns and vineyards.

I would allocate 30-40 minutes for the round-trip funicular ride, snapping pics, and walking around the area. There are a couple restaurants up here as well, so allocate more time if you might fancy food or drink with a view.

Other Things to Do

Psssst : There’s actually more to see in Bergamo! I was jet-lagged on the day I did this day trip, so I woke up at noon in Milan and got to Bergamo in the afternoon. I missed seeing the Porta San Giacomo (to the left when you enter Città Alta from the funicular) and the Rocca (to the right). Just do a quick Google Images search of these two things, and you’ll see why I’m bummed I didn’t get to them!

THINGS TO DO IN BERGAMO CITTA BASSA

Once you’re done enjoying the Città Alta and San Vigilio, take the funicular back down to the Città Bassa. From there, take the bus heading for Città Bassa back down to the central area. The bus stop is right in front of the funicular station entrance (see map below). 

I recommend hopping off the bus around the street Piazza Giacomo Matteotti to explore the Città Bassa distract for a bit. With the Città Alta behind you, make a right and walk until this street turns into Via XX Settembre . There are a couple main shopping streets, some contemporary art statues, eateries, and pretty government buildings. 

If you decide to do this, I recommend simply walking back to the train station afterwards, as you are only a few long blocks away now. But if you are short on time or interest to see the Città Bassa, you can certainly just ride the bus from the Città Alta straight to the Bergamo train station.

And before you know it, your Bergamo day trip from Milan has come to an end! Once at the Bergamo train station, use your all-day transport pass and board the next train to Milano Centrale. Direct trains leave every hour, at two past the hour, and will get you back in fifty minutes.

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Let me know any questions you have on my guide for how to visit Bergamo on a day trip from Milan. And if you’ve been to visit Bergamo, I’d love to know what you thought!

Like It? Save it for Later on Pinterest.

Further Reading...

One Day Itinerary for Essaouira, Morocco

Free Cinque Terre Hikes (With Better Views than the Paid Hike Trails)

Auxiliares de Conversación Application & Visa Process: Detailed Timeline

16 comments.

Thank you for this wonderful link and information. Presently I am in Milan, looking to buy this one day pass to Bergamo for a day trip as your great information. But how can I use the pass for train tickets though, how can I booked my train , please advise.thank you

That Travelista

Hello! I’m glad to know this post was helpful to you. 🙂

It’s been ~2.5 years since I used this pass, but if I remember correctly, I purchased the ticket at a ticket vending machine in a metro station. Then, I rode the metro to Milano Centrale. This of course required that I insert the ticket before entering the metro, so this validated the ticket and started the time. If you are not going to be using the metro as the first use of the ticket, then I believe you will need to validate it before boarding the train, the same way you would validate any normal train ticket (little machines on the platforms, but ask train station staff for help if you need).

The website states that the ticket must be validated on the first use, and that if you purchase a 7 day ticket without the magnetic strips (I guess there are two kinds of 7 day tickets), you must write your first and last name on the ticket. As far as I know, those are the only rules! I imagine that if a train ticket controller checks you on a train, you show the ticket, they do the math based on the validation time stamp, and that’s it. Just make sure you are using one of the transport types covered by the ticket, which is listed on the website I linked. The types of transport covered by the pass normally aren’t ones you would book in advance.

Hope that helps!! 🙂

Patricia Leung

Thanks for a speedy response, grateful for your info. Best regards, Patricia

Bergamo looks so beautiful, love the architecture! I’ll be sure to check it out next time!

You’ll love it! 🙂

5+ Amazing Day Trips from Milan by Train - Imani Escapes

[…] Bergamo – Check out this Milan-Bergamo day trip guide from That Travelista […]

wow I wish I knew about Bergamo when I visited Milan! It looks so cool there, esp the architecture!!

It’s definitely a bit of a hidden gem! Italy is a repeat destination in my book, so hopefully you’ll be in the area again. 🙂

Every single place in Italy is amazing isn’t it? Personally I’ve never been to Bergamo but I really want to! I’ve heard many great things about it and the airport is very convenient. I’ll be using this article as a reference so thank you!

Right?! Love Italy. And yes, there is an airport in Bergamo!

Mapped by Megan

What a great find! I love non-touristy spots near more mainstream destinations. Thanks for sharing this detailed guide!

Non-touristy spots by mainstream spots are my fave too!

I love how detailed this is! I stumbled onto your blog and now I have new places to visit! Bergamo looks amazing. Thank you for your tips on how to get there! Saved me loads of time trying to figure out if I can squeeze it in my next vacation.

Thanks so much! Glad to be of use 🙂

Chelsey Evans

Never been here but looks beautiful!

It is beautiful! And not crowded at all!

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train strike // best way from Venice to Varenna (Lake Como)? - Italy Forum

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train strike // best way from Venice to Varenna (Lake Como)?

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So we are trying to figure out the best way from Venice to Varenna. Ideally we would find a solution that is easy, relatively hassle-free, and not super expensive.

I am struggling to understand our options, since there are so many transportation providers, and all the search engines default to "train" as the easiest way to make our journey. Can anyone help advise us?

It seems we can do:

-- Car rental from Venice to Como (3:45 duration, plus time to pick up and return car ). Then either a bus from Como to Bellagio (1:10 duration) and ferry from Bellagio to Varenna (0:20 duration); or, a boat from Como to Varenna if the timing works out and tickets are available. This seems stressful; my husband is not eager to drive in Italy .

--Flixbus from Venice (Tronchetto) to either Milano bus station (4.25 hrs), or Bergamo airport (3.5 hrs). Flixbus is very inexpensive. Then a taxi (or perhaps car service, arranged in advance) from Milano or Bergamo to Varenna. (1 hr from Milano, or 1.25 hrs from Bergamo.) Google estimates a taxi at $125+.

Would a taxi actually drive us all the way from Milano or Bergamo to Varenna? Would we be better off arranging a private transfer? A private transfer from Bergamo to Varenna seems to be around 225 Euro which is pretty costly.

I see we can also take Flixbus to Milan, transfer to another Flixbus to Como, and then take a third bus from Como to Bellagio and then the ferry to Varenna, but this would take forever.

Flixbuses depart Venice Tronchetto. What is the best way to Venice Tronchetto (we are staying in a hotel near St. Mark's.) Am I correct in thinking that we would take the vaparettos from our hotel to the big bus station at Piazelle Roma, and then take the people mover from Piazelle Roma to Tronchetto? (Does the people mover get shut down during strikes that affect national trains?) Or can we take a vaparetto all the way there?

Is there another option we haven't considered? This is such a hassle; trains are so easy and we're familiar. But this is just all part of the travel experience! :)

We do have travel insurance, and it does include travel delays due to strikes. I'm not exactly sure how to file a claim or what might count, but we will save our receipts and screen shots showing the strike actions and that our trains were affected, and hope we can be reimbursed some of the extra expense. (Are our tickets refunded if canceled by the italian train company? We purchased direct from them and spent around $100 total.) Thank you.

11 replies to this topic

Have you looked at italo and Trenitalia (italo only runs high speed trains)? There should be some trains running on that day.

If car becomes an option you could drop it off in Lecco. From Lecco you can use the ferry to Varenna .

Which of your days and day of the week is affected by strikes?

From Milano Centrale to Varenna -Esino, on Mondays to Saturdays Trenord will run a guaranteed train at 18.20, which may be very crowded.

As for high speed trains from Milan to Venice , you'll have to refer to the list of guaranteed trains that will be published by Trenitalia and Italo in due course.

Should you decide to travel by Flixbus, then buy tickets to Bergamo airport, and ask for a quote for a private transfer from https://www.lariobus.com/en/ , a reliable local operator.

While Trenord does run trains during peak hours on Monday to Saturday strike days, it also publishes a list of those trains which it will run.

Thank you all for the helpful and specific information. This is very helpful.

This is for next Monday 22 April.

And regarding the comment that some trains run even if not guaranteed: when might they decide this, with respect to my 10:48 train from Venice to Milano? The day prior? The morning of? At 10:47?

Would we be better switching that Venice - Milano train to an earlier departure, if trains between 6:00-9:00 have a higher chance of running? (I need to look at my ticket and see if I can switch it. I bought it a long time ago but I think I chose the ticket type that allows changes.)

For the 18:20 regional train from Milano to Varenna : should I buy that ticket now? Or will they honor my earlier ticket on the 18:20 train that day? Or do I exchange at the station (and if so, do I need to allow extra time to wait in line and do this, because everyone is making adjustments at the station)? Do these regional trains ever “sell out” or do they just cram everyone in?

Lots to think about. I don’t like uncertainty when traveling. I am afraid to wait too long to figure out a Backup Plan, in case FlixBus or our other good options sell out. But maybe it will be okay and I just need to embrace the uncertainty as part of the adventure.

Thank you so much.

The list of long distance Trenitalia guaranteed trains in case of strikes up to June 8 is here https://www.trenitalia.com/content/dam/tcom/allegati/trenitalia_2014/informazioni/TABELLA_A_Treni_garantiti_DPLH.pdf

It appears that yours (Frecciarossa 9724 ETD 10.48) is not on that list.

If I were you, I would start to make alternate arrangements.

If you do so, remember you can ask for a refund!

Thank you. The strike messages say:

Sciopero locale Veneto - Trenitalia, 8 ore: dalle 9.01 alle 17.00. OSR FILT-CGIL, FIT-CISL, UILT-UIL, UGL FERROVIERI, SLM-FAST-CONFSAL, ORSA FERROVIE

Sciopero locale Lombardia - Trenord, 23 ore: dalle 03.00 del 22/4 alle 02.00 del 23/4. OSR UILT-UIL, ORSA FERROVIE

Does the Veneto strike ONLY affect the Trenitalia trains? Or is Italo affected also? (I am not familiar with the train unions, and which unions support which companies, so I am struggling to understand our opportunities and limitations.)

Thank you so much, you're all very helpful.

I cannot find a current list for Italo trains.

My original tickets from Venice to Milano were "Super Economy" and non-refundable, which is unfortunate. (Although I only paid 30 Euro each, so not a terrible loss.) But, if the train is canceled by Trenitalia, are they required to refund my money? I tried to read the Terms & Conditions but the document is around 100 pages long and appears on my screen as a PDF, which I am not able to translate.

Thank you all so much for your help, I appreciate it.

Use https://reclami-e-suggerimenti.trenitalia.com/rimborsi/en/Anagrafica.aspx if the train is definitely cancelled.

But as I said earlier, very often Frecciarossa trains are not cancelled even when they are not guaranteed trains.

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