day trips from milan winter

16 of the Best Day Trips From Milan in Winter

Looking for the best day trips from Milan in winter? You’ve come to the right place!

Lombardy ‘s capital has much to offer travelers in the colder season, including fascinating surrounding cities, towns, lakes, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, so let’s get started with these amazing day trips!

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Quick suggestions for your trip to Milan: Highly-rated day tours from Milan (available in winter): 1. Lake Como day tour or a wintertime Lake Como tour (one of the most popular choices) 2. Lake Garda and Verona day tour (with a visit to Sirmione, The Pearl of Lake Garda) 3. St. Moritz (Switzerland) day tour with a ride on the Bernina Express train

Highly-rated accommodations in Milan: 1. Cà Bèla – Porta Romana (where I stayed) 2. Missori Suites (only a 5-minute walk from the Duomo) 3. Porta 92 Romana (only 2 Metro stops away from the Duomo) 4. Brera Prestige B&B (in the beautiful Brera district near the Sforza Castle)

Top Milan attractions: 1. Duomo di Milano: a cathedral & rooftop ticket or a full pass . 2. Da Vinci’s Last Supper guided tour .

Day trips from Milan in winter: A Milan Italy winter guide for the city's surroundings

Table of Contents

Taking Day Trips From Milan in Winter

Some destinations can be visited with a guided tour, but most of the places on this list are easily reachable by train from Milano Centrale, one of the main train stations in Italy, or from the stations of Milano Cadorna and Milano Porta Garibaldi.

Be sure to book your ticket in advance to save time (and reserve your seat, depending on the train and ticket you’re choosing). I personally love using Omio for that as it compares bus and train prices in one place.

Places to Visit Near Milan in Winter (+Map)

See here the map of some of the best cities and towns to visit near Milan in winter.

Tip: After accessing the map, you can also open it on your Google Maps app. Simply open your app, tap the ‘saved’ icon at the bottom, scroll down and tap the ‘maps’ icon, and choose the MyMaps map you want to see (you can do the same on your computer).

Lake Como, Lombardy

By Megan from Megan & Aram

Situated just an hour’s train ride from Milan, a day trip to Lake Como in the winter offers stunning scenery and a breath of fresh air without the crowds of summer.

From the end of November to early January, check out Como’s lovely traditional Christmas market in Piazza Cavour, go ice skating, and enjoy the brilliantly lit Christmas tree in Piazza Duomo.

Don’t miss the “Citta dei Balocchi,” a fun festival that’s been running for the past thirty years, offering tons of events, markets, decorations, and festive activities across the towns of Como and Cernobbio.

If you’re keen to be outdoors, don’t miss walking the Lake Como Greenway, a 6-mile (10km) walk that passes through some of the lakeside villages and past monuments, offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding snow-covered landscape.

Another option is to take a private boat tour, which allows you to get out on the water as well as visit several of the villages. If you’re into skiing, head up to Piani di Bobbio for some amazing ski trails.

Lastly, warm up with a traditional meal from the area, such as pizzoccheri , buckwheat pasta, or missoltino , a sun-dried fish.

Book your train ticket from Milan to Como in advance or opt for a guided Lake Como day tour or a wintertime Lake Como tour !

Colorful houses on the waterfront of Varenna, Lake Como, Italy

Verona, Veneto

By Martina & Jürgen from PlacesofJuma

A wonderful recommendation for a day trip from Milan in winter is a visit to Verona. This city is truly easy to fall in love with and delights with historical charm and a captivating atmosphere.

There are so many amazing things to do in Verona . This Italian city, known for its Shakespearean heritage as the setting for Romeo and Juliet, unleashes a unique romantic charm during the winter months.

At this time, there are slightly fewer tourists than usual, and you get to see the old town at its best. Remember to pack warm clothes and comfortable shoes for your exploration in wintertime.

As you stroll through the cobblestone streets adorned with twinkling lights, you’ll discover many layers of history in the city’s well-preserved architecture.

Verona’s ancient Roman amphitheater, the Arena, is a testament to the past and offers a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage. It is decorated every year for Christmas, and the giant poinsettia conjures up a unique ambiance.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the picturesque Piazza delle Erbe, where a lively market takes place even in winter. Be sure to visit the House of Juliet, a pilgrimage site for romantics, with the iconic balcony where Juliet is said to have serenaded.

Getting to Verona from Milan is a breeze, as frequent train services connect the two cities in just 1:15 hours. In addition, guided tours are also available.

Purchase your train ticket from Milan to Verona in advance or book a guided Verona & Lake Garda day tour !

LAKE GARDA, LOMBARDY & VENETO

By Alice from Adventures of Alice

Lake Garda is a beautiful destination in Italy to visit all year round, but it’s exceptionally special in the winter months.

During this time of year, Northern Italy has a surprisingly warm (metaphorically) atmosphere, with entertaining Christmas markets, an abundance of hot chocolate and mulled wine, and cozy vibes in most hotels, apartments, and restaurants.

Winter is a great time to visit Lake Garda for fairs and festivities. The Christmas season makes it truly special, with events taking over the small towns.

Particularly in Sirmione , you can see the gorgeous Scaligero Castle lit up with twinkling fairy lights and skate on the annual ice rink.

If you’re traveling to the Italian lakes as a family, don’t forget to take a trip to Gardaland, where you’ll find plenty of rides and attractions dressed up in their Christmas gear.

The food here also takes on a festive twist in the winter months, and you’ll find plenty of hot chocolate and warm soups to keep you toasty.

Lastly, Lake Garda in winter is also the perfect spot to hit the slopes. The nearby Monte Baldo will allow you to test your skiing or snowboarding abilities.

There’s also a slope for beginners, so you don’t need to be an expert to try your hand at winter sports.

Purchase your train ticket from Milan to Lake Garda in advance or book a guided Verona & Lake Garda day tour !

Tirano, Lombardy

By Kenny from Knycx Journeying

Italy is one of the most famous countries to visit because of its history, classical art, food and fashion. In fact, the country also has breathtaking natural sceneries, like in north Lombardy adjacent to the Alps, bordering Switzerland.

Tirano is a small town in Valtallina, about 166 kilometers away from central Milan; it takes about 3 hours to get there from Milan, but it’s totally worth visiting.

Tirano is home to many impressive attractions and outdoor experiences for worldwide tourists.

In winter, Tirano is located close to a number of ski resorts in the Alps. The old town is also very easy to explore on foot. Check out the architecture on the cobbled road and tranquil river, and the Catholic shine of the Madonna di Tirano is also a highlight in the area.

The train ride from Milan to Tirano itself is a scenic journey because the train runs along the famous Lake Como, a well-known resort area at the foothills of the Alps.

Tirano is also famous for being the starting and arrival point of the popular scenic train Bernina Express, operating all year round and connecting with Chur in Switzerland.

Winter is a wonderful time to kick start or complete the train journey because passengers will be witnessing how the train makes its way through the steep and rugged terrain, passing over 196 bridges and 55 tunnels in the snow.

Purchase your train ticket from Milan to Tirano in advance or book a guided tour to Tirano and St. Moritz (Switzerland) with a ride on the Bernina Express train !

Bologna, Emilia-Romagna

By Martha from May Cause Wanderlust

Bologna makes a great day trip from Milan because it’s easy to get to (a direct train takes just over an hour) but quite different. While Milan is a big, smart, fashionable city, Bologna is smaller, older, and arguably more charming.

You could visit Bologna year-round, but winter is a great time to go because it’s the kind of place that you’ll want to explore by foot, which is not always that pleasant to do in the baking heat.

For example, one of the best things to do in Bologna is to walk the Portico of San Luca, the world’s longest portico. It’s nearly 4km of handsome covered walkway, of which half is unrelenting uphill steps. You wouldn’t want to do that on a hot Italian day!

And that isn’t the only attractive portico in Bologna: the city center is full of these arched walkways: some simple, some ornate, and all painted in a harmonious palette of reds and yellows.

Whilst Bologna’s architecture is captivating, another big draw is the food. Bologna is in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, the region from which originates Parma ham, Parmigiano Reggiano, and Aceto Balsamico di Modena.

Taking a food tour is highly recommended: Delicious Bologna is a good option that includes food education and tastings.

And winter is the perfect time to try a Bolognese specialty. No, not Spaghetti Bolognese! Tortellini in broth is actually the quintessential pasta dish of Bologna.

Get your train ticket from Milan to Bologna in advance and book this highly-rated food tour !

Venice, Veneto

By Lavina from Continent Hop

Venice is a fantastic travel option for a day trip from Milan. The two cities are just two and a half hours away, and you can take direct trains from Milan’s central train stations.

If you are staying in Milan, a 2-day Milan itinerary will help you plan your trip better. If you wish to explore more of Italy when in Milan, a Venice day trip is the perfect option.

You can stroll across the iconic City of Bridges on foot or use the public Vaporetto system or private water taxis. The experience is truly unique.

Winter in Venice is romantic, as the city is less crowded and cheaper. The weather is a bit cold, but you won’t mind it once the city mesmerizes you.

Teatro La Fenice is a must-visit and one of the most iconic opera houses in Italy. It’s been around for about three hundred years! An opera performance on a cold winter evening is the perfect way to stay warm.

Attend the Carnevale Di Venezia if you are visiting in February. This carnival is full of entertainment, including masks, fancy balls, and period costumes. It takes place all across the city for two weeks in February.

Visit the Riatro Bridge and Doge’s Palace, which are immensely beautiful destinations, and head to Piazza San Marco, one of the most happening places in Venice. You can also take a city tour.

A special attraction in winter is the ‘Natale di Vetro’ (Christmas of Glass) on Murano Island, where you can witness a glass Christmas tree and other stunning glass decorations.

The Christmas markets of Venice are also worth visiting. You can shop for various handmade objects, glass ornaments, and lace decorations.

End your day trip while sipping a delicious cup of Venetian hot chocolate.

Book your train ticket from Milan to Venice in advance and take this highly-rated Venice walking tour !

Lugano, Switzerland

By Nicola from All About RosaLilla

Just an hour’s drive from Milan, Lugano in Switzerland is a stunning destination for a day trip to break up a colder month in the city.

Nestled on the northern shore of Lake Lugano, this tranquil area is sure to enchant anyone with its picturesque mountain peaks and cobblestoned streets.

Imagine wandering through the old-world charm of the city center, while the snow-covered Alps loom in the background. You could explore the area’s colorful Christmas markets and one-of-a-kind boutiques, or take in its rustic beauty with a stroll along the lakefront.

With plenty to do and see while enjoying the gorgeous winter weather, one day in Lugano is a perfect getaway for anyone looking for the ultimate Swiss winter experience.

Lugano at Christmas is what you would expect from a traditional Swiss city. They have a beautifully impressive Christmas tree in the main piazza and about 50 picturesque chalets lined up along the main squares and pedestrian streets.

The biggest Christmas celebrations are held at Piazza della Riforma, Piazza Manzoni, and Via Nassa, all of which are lined with market stalls selling one-of-a-kind handmade presents. You can discover a ton of ornaments, fluffy mittens, hats, and scarves that you can’t resist buying to keep you warm.

Local favorites, including bratwurst, pretzels, sausages, and potatoes au gratin, are available at several kiosks. The majority of stands will serve some mulled wine. The weather is mild at this time of year, making Lugano the perfect winter getaway.

You can also book train tickets from Milan to Lugano (only an hour and 18 minutes away)!

Florence, Tuscany

By Mal of Raw Mal Roams

Tucked in the heart of Tuscany in central Italy , a living testament to the Renaissance era, Florence is a fantastic city to visit during the winter months, and not just for art enthusiasts.

Did you know that Florence was shortly the capital of Italy before Rome? Florence was also the birthplace of the iconic poet Dante and home to artists such as Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Brunelleschi.

Today, Florence is abundant in monuments and UNESCO treasures and a real treat for any traveler who can appreciate such a rich heritage.

Why visit in winter? Well, you’ll find fewer tourists, much more affordable accommodation rates, and if you visit in December – festive lights and local Christmas markets that add a unique charm to the city.

While you’re there, visit the stunning Uffizi Gallery, snap a photo at the picturesque Ponte Vecchio, and climb to the top of the awe-inspiring Duomo. If you’re a foodie, here are some of the best Florence food tours .

Getting to Florence is super easy – take one of the high-speed trains from Milan Central Station. The trip takes 1.5 to 2 hours, and you’ll get off in the city center at Florence Santa Maria Novella Station.

Stay at MyForte Relais de Charme, one of the best Florence hotels with an indoor pool and a fantastic spa, where you can pumper up after a day of sightseeing.

Get your train ticket from Milan to Florence in advance and book your Duomo ticket !

Be inspired by this Rome-Florence-Venice itinerary !

Parma, Emilia-Romagna

By Kate from Our Escape Clause

As the second-biggest city in Emilia-Romagna, visiting Parma offers much of the same appeal as its neighbor Bologna, though with a fraction of the crowds (something that is even more true in winter – this is an Italian city where you’ll have plenty of space to stretch out!).

The best things to do in Parma include visiting the remarkable 12th-century Duomo and Baptistery, exploring the impressive (all-wooden) Teatro Farnese, and checking out Teatro Regio, the city’s beautiful opera house.

Even more important than sightseeing in the historic center is that you take time when visiting Parma to eat!

As the origin of both Parmigiano-Reggiano and prosciutto di Parma, to say that Parma has delicious food is a bit of an understatement, and the region’s hearty meat dishes and cozy plates of pasta (including the popular pumpkin-stuffed Tortelli) shine in the cooler months.

One of the most popular things to do in Parma is to book a tour of a Parmigiano-Reggiano factory and a prosciutto di Parma factory (complete with tastings, of course) – the experience is unforgettable!

Thirteen direct trains run between Milan and Parma each day, and depending on the route you book, it takes an average of 1-2 hours to travel between the two cities.

Book your train ticket from Milan to Parma in advance!

Turin, Piedmont

Being the first capital of the unified Kingdom of Italy and the main seat of the House of Savoy, Turin is a royal city you don’t want to miss.

Located only an hour from Milan, it’s home to the Savoy family’s UNESCO-listed royal residences, a museum powerhouse, the birthplace of solid chocolate and the aperitivo tradition, and a fantastic place to immerse yourself in hearty Piedmontese food, especially in winter.

Some of the best places to visit in Turin include the Royal Palace, Palazzo Madama, Villa della Regina, the Egyptian Museum, and the National Museum of Cinema (housed in the iconic Mole Antonelliana building).

If it’s not too cold, you can also take a stroll through Valentino Park, home to the beautiful Medieval Village and Castello del Valentino.

If you’re visiting Turin in December , you can enjoy Christmas events, unique light installations, decorated shops, and maybe even some snow.

Winter is also the perfect season to devour local risotto and pasta dishes (like risotto al Barolo and agnolotti ) and head to Turin’s historic cafes to savor a cup of Bicerin, a local hot drink made from coffee, chocolate, and milk.

Purchase your train ticket from Milan to Turin in advance and book this highly-rated Turin walking tour !

Villa della Regina in Turin Italy and its front facade and gardens

Bergamo, Lombardy

By Maria & Katerina of It’s All Trip To Me

Picturesque Bergamo in Northern Italy is one of the best places to visit on a day trip from Milan in December.

The fourth-largest city in Lombardy, Bergamo is amazing any time of the year but particularly enchanting around the Christmas holidays when the medieval town sparkles with festive cheer.

Bergamo is split between the Upper and the Lower Town. The Upper Town is the old part of Bergamo, built in the heart of gorgeous rolling hills and encircled by dramatic UNESCO-listed walls. The Lower Town is the modern part of the city.

If you’re visiting Bergamo on a day trip, you’ll most probably want to spend your time in the Upper Town as this is the historic part of the city and where all the magic happens.

While in the Upper Town of Bergamo, you’ll be taken aback by the charm of Piazza Vecchia, the Old Square, and the impressive Duomo that’s only a few steps away.

Another thing not to miss in Bergamo is a ride on the city’s funicular that has been around since 1887.

The best way to get from Milan to Bergamo is by train. From Milan’s train station, the journey to Bergamo takes less than an hour.

Purchase your train ticket from Milan to Bergamo in advance!

Modena, Emilia-Romagna

By Margherita from The Crowded Planet

Modena is a wonderful day trip from Milan, especially for food enthusiasts.

This medium-sized city in Emilia-Romagna is the birthplace of balsamic vinegar, and you can also visit parmigiano factories, go wine tasting, and explore one of the most beautiful covered markets in Italy.

Winter is the best time to enjoy local food, which can be a bit heavy in the warm season with lots of pasta and meat-based dishes. There are plenty of restaurants offering traditional cuisine at far more affordable prices.

Two recommendations are Da Ermete, a lunch-only place with delicious fresh pasta, and Lo Stallo del Pomodoro, housed in a historic building and offering traditional dishes with a creative twist.

And if you’re not into food? There are many more things to do in Modena – it’s where Ferrari comes from, so you can visit two Ferrari museums and drive a supercar on a race track.

Alternatively, there’s a stunning UNESCO-listed cathedral, interesting museums, and the home of Pavarotti, one of the greatest opera singers of all time.

Getting to Modena from Milan is super easy by train. There are hourly departures, and travel time is between 1 hour and 20 to 2 hours, depending on whether you opt for a fast Frecciarossa or a slow Regionale train.

Get your train ticket from Milan to Modena in advance and book your Ferrari museum ticket !

Genoa, Liguria

By Soline from On the Road Diary

Located on the Italian Riviera coastline, Genoa’s warm Mediterranean climate and mild winters make it an ideal destination for a winter day trip.

Not only is there plenty to see and do during the colder months, but you’ll also enjoy some of the best cuisine and nightlife Italy has to offer.

It is easily reachable from Milan on a one-day trip. You can either take a direct train between the two cities that lasts 1 hour and a half or drive 2 hours.

Unlike Cinque Terre , which is touristy all year round, Genoa’s streets won’t be too busy in winter. You will be able to enjoy its history and culture without the crowds.

You can walk around the magnificent Old Town district with its narrow alleyways and medieval buildings to the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza De Ferrari.

Then, head towards Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, D’Albertis Castle, and the Old Port of Genoa. However, the best way to visit Genoa is to get lost in its many alleys!

Get your train ticket from Milan to Genoa in advance and book this highly-rated food tour !

Ascona, Switzerland

By Zoe from Together In Switzerland

For a Milan day trip destination in winter, consider your next trip to the Ticino canton of Switzerland, specifically Ascona. Located South of the Alps, Ascona is next to Lake Maggiore, with the most picturesque views of the local mountains.

Ascona is reachable by train from Milan, such as with the RE80 or EC train into Switzerland, and then change to a local train or public bus. Alternatively, driving from Milan to Ascona takes only 1 hour 40 minutes without traffic.

During winter in Ticino, Ascona is very cozy, with local restaurants providing heaters and blankets, as well as sparkling lights hung up through the trees.

Find a restaurant along the promenade for the best lake views in winter. For a specific restaurant tip, check Piazza Ascona!

Don’t expect much snow in Ascona during winter, as it can be rather sunny with its Mediterranean charm.

However, there are local mountains with hiking and snow sledding options, most topped with a sprinkle of snow from mid-December onwards. For example, Cimetta is a great place to ski.

Alternatively, head up the Locarno chairlifts for a warm bombardino or gluhwein to drink!

For those wanting to relax, visit a local spa, such as the Termali Spa . They have some amazing massage and relaxation packages, where you can also book a private room with a balcony, hot tub, and sauna access.

Get your train ticket from Milan to Locarno (from where you can take a short bus ride to Ascona) in advance!

Crespi D’Adda, Lombardy

By Michael from Time Travel Turtle

In the 19th century, most European companies weren’t thinking about things like employee welfare, which is why Crespi d’Adda was so significant at the time.

The small town was founded in 1875 by the Crespi family to provide accommodation for its factory workers and along with houses, they created a community with things like a school, theatre, and church.

It was the first company town in Italy, which provided a blueprint of enlightenment for a new trend across the continent.

Although the factory is now closed, the town remains and has been listed as a World Heritage Site.

Visiting today gives you the opportunity to see how it all came together, from the cottages and gardens to the looming chimney of the cotton mill.

There are no official opening hours or entrance fees, but you can book a guided tour .

It’s relatively easy to visit Crespi d’Adda from Milan. The drive is about 40 minutes, or there are bus routes that will drop you about 20 minutes’ walk from the site, the whole journey taking about 1.5 hours each way.

In winter, the snow creates a particularly beautiful landscape in the town and the surrounding forest, while the local church holds special services.

Varese, Lombardy

By Lisa from Travel Connect Experience

Among the most beautiful winter scenery in Lombardy is that surrounding the city of Varese.

By train, you will reach Varese from Milan in about an hour. At the top of the experiences this northern Italian city offers are those devoted to sampling the local cuisine.

The most popular dishes Varese offers are typical winter dishes, such as polenta e bruscitt, a hearty dish based on cornmeal, beef, and butter. Those who do not eat meat can delight in risotto with pumpkin or risotto with perch.

Another one of the best things to do in Varese in winter is to enjoy the typical local hot drink, the “buosino”.

This is a coffee to which hot chocolate, foamed milk, and chocolate chips are added. The buosino is usually served with the local dessert, “Dolce Varese,” a cake made from cornmeal.

After filling your tummy, spend some time admiring the art in the enclosed places. Varese’s iconic landmark, namely the Palazzo Estense with its gardens, houses the Civic Archaeological Museum.

Instead, the spectacular Villa Panza houses, in its luxurious interiors, about 100 works of contemporary art.

Book your train ticket from Milan to Varese in advance!

Is Milan Worth Visiting in Winter?

Milan is a wonderful Italian winter destination all on its own, thanks to a variety of cozy Christmas markets, decorated streets and stores, and an overall inviting atmosphere.

But as you can see, it’s also worth traveling to Milan in winter to see another side of all of these beloved cities and towns.

You’ll be only a short train ride away from immersing yourself in the wintertime magic of northern Italy and Switzerland.

Views of Milan Cathedral and its christmas market

Other Milan and Italy Travel Guides

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Milan in winter – 28 incredible things to do in winter in Milan, Italy

December 20, 2022
Italy , Europe

Milan might not be the first destination you think of when traveling in winter, but Milan is a vibrant and beautiful city any time of the year and visiting the fashion capital in winter certainly has some incredible perks.

Winter in Milan is the best time to enjoy the city and museums sans the crowds, indulge in the local cuisine, see Milano twinkle with Christmas lights and attend the Milan Fashion week.

Milan in winter is a delight and if you’re planning a city trip this winter, this is the guide you need. Below I tell you everything you need to know to plan your winter escape to Milan – from where to stay, what to do, and more.

Why visit Milan in winter

Where to stay in milan in winter, climb up the roof of the duomo di milano, see the last supper at santa maria delle grazie, visit leonardo’s vineyard, marvel at the galleria vittorio emanuele ii, qc termemilano, see a show at la scala theatre, do a food tour, ride the tram, enjoy a milanese aperitivo, labirinto di pomodoro, mudec museum in milan, visit the castello sforzesco, stroll through parco sempione, see the arco della pace, go on a day trip, visit the brera art gallery, see the christmas lights, visit the milan christmas markets, visit the natural history museum of milan, hit the slopes, fernet branca distillery, dress up for the ambrosian carnival, cimitero monumentale, visit la fabbrica del vapore, binario 21- shoah memorial, marvel at piazza gae aulenti & bosco verticale, shop til you drop, attend milan fashion week, celebrate new year’s eve in piazza duomo, winter holidays and events in milan, does it snow in milan, what to pack for winter in milan, how many days in milano in winter, getting to milano, getting around milan, where to eat and drink in milan, planning a trip to italy.

Book your winter Milan essentials:

Milano tram tour Milan walking tour The Last Supper guided tour Duomo di Milano Rooftop Lake Como Day Trip

Milan is a city that offers a wealth of attractions, from world-renowned architecture to rich history and incredible cuisine.

For many, the reason they visit Milano in winter is that they’re attending the world-famous Milan Fashion Week, which happens every year in February or March.

But even if you’re not all that into fashion, visiting Milan in winter is a fantastic idea. December is particularly special when Milan lights up with Christmas decorations and is buzzing with Christmas Markets.

Winter in Milan sees less tourism so you’ll also get to enjoy this beautiful city without the crazy crowds and for a more affordable price. Plus you’ll have the perfect excuse to warm up with coffee and hot chocolate!

The best area to stay in Milan is in the historic city center or Brera which is also very central. This way you’ll be close to the majority of the attractions and have plenty of restaurant and bar options. Check this article for more info on where to stay in Milan , including the best areas to base yourself and hand-picked hotels and apartments.

While accommodation in these areas tends to be on the pricey side in summer, you can snug a room for a great deal in winter.

Casa Baglioni Milan

LUX BOUTIQUE

With 30 rooms and suites, a restaurant by Michelin-starred Chef Claudio Sadler, and a wine cellar, Casa Baglioni is among Milan’s newest 5-star hotels.

CHECK PRICES

Matilde Boutique Hotel

OUTSTANDING SERVICE

The hotel’s perfect balance of tradition and innovation is apparent in every detail, from the elegant decor to the modern amenities.

Check prices

Galleria Vik Milano

IMMERSIVE ART

Not just a luxury hotel but also a private gallery, situated inside Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II featuring unique furniture and design elements.

Read next: Where to stay in Milan – best areas and accommodation in Milan Best hotels in Milan

30-ish amazing things to do in Milan in winter

The main attractions like the Duomo, Sforzesco castle and The Last Supper are sights you’ll want to visit any time of year, but in winter you’ll get to enjoy them without the crowds.

But visiting Milan in winter also offers the opportunity for some incredible experiences that are only possible during winter.

Below you’ll find the most incredible things you should add to your Milan itinerary when you visit in winter. It includes popular attractions, some off-the-beaten-path curiosities, and unmissable winter highlights!

Refer to this map of Milan attractions to find the things mentioned below.

The Duomo cathedral in Milan is and architectural masterpiece and one of the most iconic and impressive landmarks in all of Italy. This magnificent Gothic cathedral was built over six centuries, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Milano Cathedral is full of beautiful frescoes, gorgeous stained glass and there is even a crypt underneath the cathedral. But the absolute best part about a visit to the Duomo is climbing to the top of the roof! From the rooftop you’ll get unforgettable views of Milan and the surrounding, including the snow-covered Alps on the horizon.

You can join this tour of the cathedral and the rooftop for a guided experience so you can skip the line. Or combine your visit to the Duomo with a walking tour of the city and a visit to the Last Supper by joining this tour.

The Last Supper is an iconic fresco housed on the walls of the Santa Maria delle Grazie church. It depicts the moment when Jesus Christ reveals that one of his disciples will betray him. This masterpiece of Renaissance art was painted by Leonardo da Vinci in the late 15th century and is one of the most famous and iconic paintings in the world.

Due to the fresco’s fragile condition the daily visits are limited and tickets are very hard to get. While slightly pricier, it is much easier to find a spot on a guided tour but you still need to make sure to book it well in advance.

You’ll get the best value with this walking tour which includes tickets to the Duomo and the Last Supper.

Near the Santa Maria delle Grazie church you’ll find Leonardo’s Vineyard (La Vigna di Leonardo) at Atellani House which used to be his home while he was working on The Last Supper.

The museum houses an impressive collection of his artworks and gives you insights into the life of one of the most impressive artists of all time. Join this tour to learn more about Leonardo’s life, the story of the Vineyard and the amazing architecture of Atellani House.

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele is a beautiful shopping arcade located in the heart of Milan, Italy. Built in the 19th century, it’s one of the oldest and most famous shopping malls in Europe. The arcade is named after Victor Emmanuel II, who was the first king of a unified Italy. Inside you’ll find high-end shops, restaurants, and a stunning mosaic floor created by Giuseppe Verdi.

Pay special attention to the bull of Turin, you’ll notice a hole where his family jewels used to be. That’s because it’s said that spinning around three times with a heel on the testicles of the bull brings good luck.

Although a popular attraction any time of the year, the Galleria is especially enchanting in winter, when it’s wrapped in Christmas decorations.

And if you’re a Leonardo Da Vinci fan make sure to visit the Leonardo3 interactive exhibition which includes a number of reproductions of Leonardo’s famous machines. Make sure to book your tickets in advance.

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable winter experience, look no further than QC Termemilano. This amazing thermal spa is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate during the colder months.

The spa is housed in an old art nouveau complex in the centre of town and blessed with stunning architecture and lush gardens. With its many pools, saunas, and steam rooms, QC Termemilano will leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated.

You can grab day tickets for a full day of relaxation or book an evening visit with an apperitivo and snacks.

Since 1778, La Scala theatre hosted some of the world’s most famous operas and performances by Giuseppe Verdi, Arturo Toscanini, and Maria Callas.

La Scala is still one of the most prestigious theaters in the world and continues to attract audiences from all over the world. You can visit the theatre and museum with this guided tour or grab a ticket to a performance for an evening of grandeur.

Milan offers a vibrant food culture and a gourmet food tour is the perfect way to get a taste of all that Milan has to offer. If you love to cook make sure to join this cooking class which includes a market tour.

An absolute must-try is ossobuco , which is special cut of braised veal shank. Risotto milanese is among the most traditional dishes in Milan. Made from rice cooked in beef or veal stock and flavored with saffron, giving it its characteristic bright yellow color.

Milan is renowned for its iconic trams, ranging from the brand new models to those with vintage charm. And they’re the perfect way to explore the city!

Join this tram tour which includes tickets to The Last Supper, followed by a walking tour of Sforza Castle, stops at the Duomo, Piazza della Repubblica, and La Scala opera House. All while getting you from A to B in style aboard a vintage tram.

If you’re on a budget but still want to explore Milan, why not take one of the old-school trams that run on the regular lines? Line 5 is perfect for visiting Ortica and line 2 winds along the ever so charming Navigli. Or hop onto line 1 where you can enjoy epic views of La Scala.

Italy is known for its aperitivo culture, a pre-dinner drink served with appetizers. Traditionally, an aperitivo is a low-alcohol fizzy drink, like an Aperol Spritz and is usually served with a small plate of crackers, olives, meats, cheeses, and bread.

But Milan is not traditional and they take the aperitivo to the next level! Think giant cocktails and all you can eat buffets. Trust me, there will be no need for dinner after this and the evening will soon turn into night as everyone at the bar gets a little bit tipsier and a lot happier. Head to Naviglio Pavese for the ultimate experience.

You can also join this aperitivo and street food tour or combine sightseeing with an aperitivo on this fun sunset bike tour.

Arnaldo Pomodoro is an Italian sculptor and goldsmith, and is considered one of the greatest contemporary Italian sculptors. Over sixteen years, from 1995 to 2011, he built the Labyrinth.

The Labirinto di Pomodoro is an environmental installation that spans over 170 square meters and takes you through Pomodoro’s mind and through time. The installation is a synthesis and reflection of his career as an artist.

You can grab tickets here and explore the exposition on your own or join this guided tour for more insight into the meaning of the artworks.

The Museo delle Culture (MUDEC) is a center dedicated to the interdisciplinary research on the world cultures. This ethnographic museum displays an awe-inspiring collection comprising of more than 7000 fascinating objects from all across the world, from the Far East, Africa and pre-Columbian Americas

From exquisite art pieces to everyday items like fabrics and music instruments – this truly unique gathering features artifacts ranging in age from antiquity up until the 19th century. A must see for anyone looking to explore global cultures past and present!

The Castello Sforzesco has a long and varied history. It served as a military fortress, a palace, and even a prison at various points over the years. Today, it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Milan, thanks to its impressive architecture and fascinating history. If you’re visiting Milan, be sure not to miss this iconic landmark. You can visit the exhibitions hosted in the castle or walk the outdoor grounds for free.

This Sempione park is located in the heart of Milan and is home to a variety of attractions, including the Castello Sforzesco and the Arco della Pace. From the castle, wander through the gardens gardens towards the Arco della Pace to take in some fresh air on a cold winter day.

The Arco della pace (arch of peace) sits at the edge of Parco Sempione, on the opposite side of the Castello Sforzesco.

It was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte to commemorate the French victory over the Austrian army at the Battle of Marengo. Designed by Luigi Cagnola, it was built between 1807 and 1808 from white marble and is quite a sight!

Milan is a fantastic city and has so much to offer, but even more adventure await you outside of town. Milan is relly close to the alps and some of Italys most beautiful cities so make sure to take this opportunity to explore the surrounding area as well.

Some of my favourite day trips from Milan are:

The picturesque Lake Como and Bellagio
Scenic ride on the Bernina Express to the Alps
A day trip to the romantic Venice (but even better if you can spend the night and explore deeper. Make sure to follow this itinerary .)

Read next: Venice itinerary: Best things to do in Venice in 1, 2, 3 and 5 days Venice in winter: Best things to do in Venice in winter

Founded in 1776, the Brera Art Gallery (Pinacoteca di Brera) is home to an impressive collection of artworks from some of the world’s most famous artists, including masterworks by Raphael, Tintoretto, Rembrandt, Titian, Rubens, and others from the 13th to the 20th century.

Grab your tickets in advance to avoid any lines.

The gallery is housed in a beautiful building that was designed by architects Francesco Maria Ricchini and Giuseppe Piermarini.

During the holiday season every street in Milan is dressed up with twinkling lights and cheerful decorations, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the city.

A great place to see the decorations is at Piazza del Duomo which hosts the most popular Christmas market in Milan. Every night, the lights are switched on to illuminate the piazza, leading to some truly magical moments.

Another beautiful area to see the lights is Navigli Pavese where the decorations span across the canal and you can see the lights reflected in the water.

The most popular Christmas Market in Milan is the Mercatino di Natale in the Piazza del Duomo. Here you’ll find over 60 huts and stalls selling a variety of Christmas gifts, decorations, and crafts, as well as food and drinks.

Over the Christmas period, Navigli also bursts into festive life with decorations, lights, and plenty of Christmas market stalls.

The Fiera degli Obei Obei (also known as Oh Bej Oh Bej) takes place in front of Castello Sforzesco. It starts on Sant’Ambrogio Day (7th of December) and runs for 3 days. This is one of the biggest markets in Milan and perfect if you’re not in Milan for actual Christmas, but still want to experience some of the seasonal.

The Natural History Museum of Milan is home to a vast collection of specimens from all branches of natural history, including archaeology, anthropology, geology, and palaeontology.

The museum’s collection includes items from across the natural world, including mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, fish, insects, and plants. One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of fossils, which includes remains from dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures.

Just a couple of hours from the city you can take in the alpine air and hit the slopes. There are many ski fields that are easily accessible from Milan, among the favorites are Piani di Bobbio, Domobianca, Montecampione, Piazzatorre and San Domenico. If you don’t mind a slightly longer drive then Courmayeur if a fabulous options too.

Rent a car, hop on a rain and organize the trip on your own, or join this trip to the Alps for peace of mind.

Branca Distillery, founded in 1845 by the Branca brothers, is located in the heart of Milan. This is where a variety of spirits including Fernet Branca, Sambuca Oro, and Grappa Candolini are produced.

Join a guided tour of the distillery which will that take you through the history history of the company and show you how their spirits are made. The tour also includes a tasting where you can sample some of the spirits.

Ever heard of the Milan Carnival? Following the Ambrosian rite, it is celebrated on the day before the beginning of Lent. This is about one week after Carnival in Venice which follows the Roman rite.

On Saturday afternoon a parade crosses the city streets and heads to Piazza del Duomo where the main event is held. This is a day of incredible fun with people dressed up in costumes and tons of performances to keep you entertained.

From concerts and music to street dances; this celebration truly brings people together for a fantastic show!

The Cimitero Monumentale in Milan, Italy is one of the largest and most famous cemeteries in Europe. It was founded in 1866 and contains the graves of many notable people, but the reason for visiting is not so much who is buried here but how.

While a visit to a cemetery might appear somewhat grim at first, the Cimitero Monumentale can actually be considered an open air museum where most tombs are full on works of art, monuments if you will. Here you’ll find a large collection of Italian sculptures, Greek temples and obelisks.

Join this guided tour to see the most impressive monuments and learn more about the art and the notable people burried here.

La Fabbrica del Vapore is housed in an abbandoned factory used to produce locomotives and railway cars. After being abandoned for many years, the factory was restored and reopened as an exhibition space displaying art, photography, and design. Check what’s on before visiting as the exhibitions change often.

Binario 21- Shoah Memorial commemorates the victims of the Holocaust. The museum is housed inside Milan’s Central Station and is made up of two main sections: the Memorial and the Memory Lab.

The exhibition includes videos of accounts from survivors, the original livestock wagon that was used for deportation and the Wall of Names commemorating those who were deported from Milan Central Station.

Symbol of contemporary Milan, Piazza Gae Aulenti is a raised circular square designed by Argentine architect Cesar Pelli.

This area is home to some of Milan’s most prominent modern architecture and from the square you can see the Garibaldi Towers, Bosco Verticale, the Galfa Tower, the Municipal Technical Services Tower, the Pirelli skyscraper, the Solaria, Solea, Aria residential towers and a portion of the Diamante Tower.

My favourite is Bosco Verticale, a metropolitan forestation project that helps regenerate the environment and increases biodiversity in urban areas, all without taking up precious land. These two residential towers were designed by Boeri architects and together they form an area of 10,000 m² (107,639 sq ft) of greenery.

Known as the capital of fashion, Milan is the perfect place to do some shopping and in winter you can take advantage of the seasonal sales! If you need some help picking the right outfits you can even book a personal shopper!

The main areas for shopping are Corso Buenos Aires which is home to over 350 shops, Via Torino, and Via Monte Napoleone which is an upscale shopping area with high-end brands and shops. To snug some designer clothes at a fraction of the price make sure to check out Serravalle outlet.

Milan Fashion Week is one of the biggest fashion events in the world, attracting top designers and models from all over.

If you’re lucky enough to be in Milan during Fashion Week, you’ll be able to see all the latest designs and trends firsthand. Even if you don’t attend the fashion shows, you can expect the streets to turn into a runway as the attendees explore the city.

There’s no better way to celebrate New Year’s than by spending it in one of Italy’s most beautiful cities. On New Year’s Eve, the piazza comes alive with music, food, and fireworks. There are also a variety of events and activities that take place throughout the evening, so be sure to check out the schedule before you go.

There are many events and celebrations all throughout winter in Milan and they can provide a truly unique experience.

These events can also impact the opening hours of shops, attractions, bars, and restaurants. Availability of accommodation and tours, as well as prices, might also be affected.

Below is a list of the most prominent dates you should be paying attention to when planning your winter trip to Milan.

8th of December St. Ambrose (Festa di Sant Ambrosio) ST Ambrose is the patron of Milano and this is when the holiday season starts in Milan. Shop, restaurant and tour operating hours might be affected.

8th of December The Immaculate Conception ( Festa della Concezione Immacolata ) Most museums, shops and attractions remain open.

24th of December Christmas Eve ( La Vigilia di Natale ) Expect shops and attractions to close earlier on this day. Dinner reservations are essential.

25th of December Christmas Day ( Natale ) Expect shops, restaurants and tours to function in a limited fashion. Christmas lunch reservations are essential.

26th of December St. Stephen’s Day ( Il Giorno di Santo Stefano ) Shop, restaurant and tour operating hours might be affected.

31st December New Year’s Eve (La Vigilia di Capodanno) Expect shops and attractions to close earlier on this day. Dinner reservations are essential. Celebrate in Piazza Duomo.

1st of January New Year’s Day ( Capodanno ) Shop, restaurant, and tour operating hours might be affected.

6th of January The Epiphany (La Befana) Shop, restaurant and tour operating hours might be affected.

14th of February Valentine’s Day ( San Valentino ) Opening times are not affected. Dinner reservations are recommended.

School holidays Exact dates vary, expect a higher influx of visitors. Italian kids have their school break between Christmas and the Epiphany (exact dates vary each year). Other European countries will also have school holiday breaks during this time.

Ambrosian Carnival Exact dates vary, expect people to be dressed up and loads of events in the streets.

Milan winter temperature & weather

Winter in Milan officially starts on the 21st of December and lasts till late March but often, November feels quite wintery too while March can often feel like spring.

The climate in Milan is continental with cold and dump winters and the sky is often overcast. But winter actually gets less rain than spring or autumn!

January is the coldest month of the year with average temperatures of 3.5 °C (38 °F).

Milan gets snow on most winters. It is usually limited to one or two snowfalls per year of only a few centimeters and it generally melts away quickly.

Winter in Milan is coldest in December and January, but February and March can get some really pleasant and sunny days so what you need to pack will vary on the month.

Make sure to pack some good quality waterproof boots, warm socks, a (preferably long) winter coat, a compact umbrella, gloves, scarf and hat, warm layers, but also sunglasses and sunscreen as the winter sun can be especially sneaky.

Shop these Winter essentials:

HUNTER Tall Boots

Columbia Long Down Jacket

Merino Socks

Columbia Winter Jacket

Wool Blend Wrap Coat

Windproof Travel Umbrella

USB Hand Warmer

Chelsea Boots

Hat Scarf & Gloves Set

Two days are the perfect amount of time to see Milan and its main attractions.

Keep in mind that in winter it gets dark really early so plan accordingly. You can optimize your time In Milan by visiting museums and other indoor attractions after dark.

The best way to get to Milan is by flying into the Milan Malpensa Airport. There are a number of transportation options available to get from the airport into town, including buses, taxis, and trains.

The Malpensa Express trains run between the airport and downtown Milan every 30 minutes, with a journey time of around 40 minutes. Alternativelly, there are also shuttle buses that run between the airport and offer stops in Milan, but they generally take longer than the Express train.

Another great way of traveling to Milan is by train. he central trainstation has great connections to all major cities in Italy as well as Swizzerland and France.

Public transportation in Milan is excellent and includes buses, trams, a metro and trains. There are also a number of taxi companies and Uber drivers.

Taking a tram is not just good for getting from A to be but it’s also a great way to explore the city. There are numerous tram routes that operate throughout the city, and provide a convenient, efficient, and affordable way to get around town, with a view.

Another great option for getting around Milan is using the Metro, which is fast and serves nearly all areas of the city.

Milan is home to some incredible restaurants and bars, too many to list here so I’ll limit myself to a few of the most unique hospitality experiences Milan has to offer:

RoofTop della Rinascente | Dine eye-to-eye with the Spiers on the Duomo cathedral and enjoy sweeping views over Piazza Duomo. While it might sound super fancy this is actually a food court and your dinner can be as cheap as a pizza margarita from one of the chains.

Paolo Sarpi street food | Paolo Sarpi is one of the most popular street food streets and is part of China Town in Milan. It offers a wide selection of delicious dishes from various restaurants and vendors and ranges from traditional Chinese to traditional Italian with some tasty fusion options as well.

Naviglio Pavese | The liveliest area to enjoy an aperitivo an all you can eat buffet. Already discussed above.

Bagni Misteriosi | Experience an unforgettable evening of sipping on aperitifs in their idyllic 1920’s pools. While too cold for a bath in winter, they do open the pools for night swimming in summer.

Nottingham Forest | This tiny bar serves cocktails inside syringes, mini bathtubs, toothpaste tubes and so on and so forth. If you’re a cocktail aficionado, this is not a bar you’ll want to miss.

Italy is such a stunning country that packs beautiful nature, astonishing architecture, rich history, interesting culture, loads of hand gestures, and delicious food. Oh, don’t even get me started on Italian food!

I’ve prepared a whole plethora of articles to help you plan your Italian adventure and if you’re planning a trip to Milan or a winter trip to Italy make sure to check out the relevant resources below:

Things to do in Milan Milan itinerary – 1, 2 and 3 days

Accommodation in Milan: Where to stay in Milan Best luxury hotels in Milan

Winter in Italy: Venice in winter Verona in winter Bologna in winter Italy in winter

Italy travel insurance

Good travel insurance is an absolute must when traveling abroad, and we’ve learned that the hard way!

Now we always get insured before we leave and Travel Insurance Masters is our go-to platform to find the best insurance options for the specific trip.

The TIM platform works as a search engine and suggests the best insurance company and insurance plan for your criteria so you don’t end up paying more for things you don’t need! It also takes into account your age, nationality, destination etc. which can greatly impact the final price.

You can get your quote & provider recommendations here.

Zi @Craving Adventure

Zi is the Founder and Editor in Chief behind Craving Adventure.

The Essential Guide to Visiting Milan in Winter

Last Updated on November 8, 2023

by Hope Brotherton

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Milan is the capital city of the northern region of Lombardy. It’s a busy and bubbling city packed with juxtaposing architecture, mesmerising and immersive culture as well as world-class shopping. No matter the season, this city is worth visiting – even if you’re planning to head to Milan in winter.

The Lombardy capital’s energetic atmosphere doesn’t change in the winter. Instead, the chill in the air, the glow from the sun and the twinkling Christmas markets only add to the city’s energy. Be sure to wrap up warm and stop for an Italian hot chocolate as you wander through the magic of Milan’s Christmas markets.

If you’re after a winter city break, then put Milan at the top of your list. Our guide will cover all the essential information you’ll need about visiting Milan in the winter including a list of the best things to do around Milan specifically during the wintertime.

Table of Contents

Milan in Winter Weather

A Milan winter is cold. From December to February, temperatures will reach a maximum of 10°C (50°F) during the day. Overnight temperatures will drop down to around 2°C (35°F) or even lower.

Because of its more northern location, definitely expect Milan to be a bit colder than Florence or Rome in winter . This means to make you include a warm coat, gloves and a hat when you pack for winter in Milan.

By and large, Milan doesn’t get too much snow. The majority of Milan’s snowfall will happen during January with a few rainy days to be expected too.

Lombardy’s capital is a tourist hotspot, and the same still stands for the winter months. In December, Milan will be busy. It’s packed with hordes of tourists enjoying the Christmas markets.

However, Milan’s tourist season drops off somewhat in January and February, but there’s still plenty to do in Milan at the start of the new year.

Which Month to Visit Milan in Winter?

Now you’ve got an idea of what a trip to Milan will be like in the winter, you’ll be deciding when the best time is to holiday there.

Winter in Milan typically covers three months: December, January and February. Each of these months offers something a little different for the throngs of tourists who arrive into the city.

Milan in December

Milan in December is magical, but, oh boy, it is cold too. You can expect daytime temperatures to reach around 7°C (44°F).

Even though it’ll be cold, it won’t rain too often. Throughout the month of December, you can expect around five days of rain. That being said, make sure you bring an umbrella or a waterproof jacket just in case.

A trip to Milan in December is synonymous with Christmas. While the Christmas markets are truly magical and the Piazza del Duomo is all decked out, you’ll need to pop another date in your December diary. December 7 marks the Saint Ambrogio celebrations.

Saint Ambrogio is Milan’s patron saint. To celebrate their patron, the entire city shuts down for one day. As the city comes to a halt, a Christmas market makes its appearance around Castello Sforzesco. Expect lots of local food stalls and colourful arts and crafts stalls in this part of Milan.

And the celebrations don’t end there either, the day after the Saint Ambrogio celebrations marks the start of the ballet and opera season at La Scala, so if you’re visiting make sure to nab some tickets.

Milan in January

Like December, Milan in January is bracingly cold. But unlike December, it’s not packed with tourists. After the end of the holidays, Milan returns to its working routes.

While the Christmas markets have been packed away for another year, there is one main reason to visit this fashion capital: the sales.

The Milanese are a stylish bunch and their January sales are the perfect time to update your wardrobe with some Italian flair. Head to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II or Piazza Gae Aulenti to grab an item or two in the designer sales.

Milan in February

As we creep into the year, the temperatures lift and Spring starts to feel like it is just around the corner. Milan in February means a maximum temperature of around 10°C (50°F) – and the temperature could climb even higher if you’re lucky.

While Lent and Easter may be around the corner, there is always something to celebrate or a festival to enjoy in Italy.

On 24 February, the Carnevale Ambrosiano festival returns to the city with a bang. The festival typically starts one week before the Venice carnival. However, these dates do change from year to year, so be sure to stay in the loop.

The festivities surround Milan’s formidable cathedral. The square comes alive with street performances, music, concerts, dances and pantomimes too. This carnival will be sure to get you into the festival spirit.

February is also a great time to visit to beat the crowds. So if you are keen to see Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper without hordes of tourists around, this may be the month to do this.

What to Wear in Milan During Winter

With the temperature being extremely low, you’ll need to bring plenty of layers to keep your toes nice and toasty.

The locals in Milan are extremely stylish, so you’ll want to blend in with them as you walk down the chic streets of the Brera district. In Italy, fluffy puffer jackets are very much on trend. If you have one, bring it with you. If you don’t have one, use this trip to grab one.

While it may sound obvious, make sure to bring your winter accessories too. You’ll want to pack a warm woollen hat, a pair of gloves, and a thick scarf. Make sure to bring some winter boots, and thick socks or tights.

These winter accessories will be obvious items to pack but remember to bring your sunglasses too. The winter sun in Milan is fierce, so you’ll need your sunnies to see.

Things to do in Milan in Winter

There is always something going on in the Lombardy capital do it’s great to get to Milan in the winter season. But in the winter months, you’ll want to add a seasonal activity to your Milan itinerary.

There are plenty of things to do in Milan during winter but be sure to squeeze in something festive for a city break to remember.

While you can visit the Duomo ( pre-book tickets here ), see the Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie and indulge in local cuisine (you can book a food tour here ) at any time of year, there are some things that make winter particularly special to visit.

Milan’s Christmas Markets

The Christmas markets in Milan are, to put it simply, perfectly picturesque. There are several markets dotted across the city with solo vendors appearing outside museums and other tourist hotspots too.

While a visit to any of the Christmas markets would be magical, you’ll want to tick the bigger and bolder ones off your bucket list.

On a visit to Milan, you’ll struggle to miss Piazza Duomo and in December you’ll be even harder pushed to miss Mercatino di Natale – the square’s Christmas market.

It’s the busiest Christmas market in the city, so keep a firm hold of your possessions or plan ahead to avoid large crowds. This market has over 60 wooden huts selling homemade Christmas decorations, sweet treats and other festive trinkets.

On your winter trip to Milan, visit the city’s oldest Christmas market outside Castello Sforzesco. Known as ‘O Bej, O Bej’ by the locals, the name of the market literally means ‘oh how wonderful’, and they’re not wrong.

Each year dozens of wooden stalls line the surroundings of the castle. This market’s offering is slightly more versatile too with antiques and children’s toys also being sold here.

Other Christmas markets include Darsena Christmas Village and the artisan market at Rho Fiera.

Milan Duomo

A trip to Milan wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the city’s famous cathedral. Milan’s Duomo stands tall in Piazza del Duomo. In the winter, an enormous Christmas tree is erected just outside the cathedral. The tree is decorated with baubles and fairy lights. Head to the Duomo first thing in the morning to catch a glimpse of the square before it becomes too busy. During December, the best time to climb the stairs to the cathedral’s roof is arguably at sunset. The light orange hues in the sky will give you goosebumps. For a bit of warmth, be sure to head inside the cathedral. You can pre-book tickets here to visit the rooftops, museum and other exhibitions.

Go Skiing in Courmayeur

While there are several day trips from Milan in winter you can enjoy, when you’re this close to the Italian Alps, it would be rude not to visit. Courmayeur is Italy’s best all-round ski resort. This charming village sits in the northwest of Italy. It boasts stunning views of the world-famous Mont Blanc. As well as hitting the slopes for a spot of skiing or snowboarding, you can pamper yourself at a spa or tuck into a sumptuous dinner at a mountain hut. The popular resort village can be reached as a day trip from Milan too. There are several ways to arrive in Courmayeur from Milan to fill your lungs with the fresh mountain air.

Arguably the easiest way to arrive at Courmayeur is to find a provider for an organised day excursion from Milan.

You’ll be able to sit back and relax as your guide organises everything for you. That being said, these day trips are more expensive than other options. If you want to keep the costs down, then make your own way to Courmayeur with several transport options available to you. The first is to hire a car. The drive will take just over two hours, so make sure you’re comfortable driving on Italian roads. You can browse options on Rentalcars.com here.

If you don’t feel comfortable driving, there are some public transport options available too. Flixbus offers a couple of buses a day from Milan to Courmayeur. So you’ll be able to have a good few hours to spend exploring Courmayeur. You can browse schedules here.

Day Trip to Lago Maggiore

Many holidaymakers flock to the Italian lakes of Como , Garda and Maggiore in the summer, but these lakes are often overlooked in the winter months by tourists. That being said, Lago Maggiore provides the perfect day trip from Milan.

Lago Maggiore keeps its charm in the winter months. Make sure to head to Stresa, a resort town on the lake. While it’s a lot quieter in the winter months, a walk along the promenade provides a refreshing stroll compared to the streets of Milan.

In Stresa jump on the cableway, which connects Lago Maggiore to Mount Mattarone. Not only does this mountain provide astonishing views, but it’s also a great spot for winter sports too. Here, you can hit the slopes for a spot of skiing or a little bit of snowshoeing.

The easiest way to get from Milan to Lago Maggiore is by hiring a car or booking a guided tour here in advance.

The drive to Lago Maggiore will take 90 minutes. If you don’t feel comfortable driving, you can arrive to Lago Maggiore on the train. However, you’ll need to take two trains and the journey will take several hours. You can browse schedules here.

Where to Stay in Milan

Lancaster Hotel – For those after a mid-range option, this classic hotel in Milan’s city centre is an excellent option. They have a number of lovely rooms on offer and a buffet breakfast is included each morning. Click here to check availability

Castello Guest House Milano – If you’re after a luxury option, then this hotel is a great choice. Centrally located, they have a number of plush rooms available and are situated within easy walking distance of all of Milan’s top attractions. Click here to check availability

Quo Milano Hostel – This centrally-located hostel is one of the highest-rated in Milan. Perfect for budget or solo travellers who want to meet fellow travellers, they offer both private and dorm rooms with social common areas. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Milan!

Whether you’ve spent your trip enjoying the magic of Milan in the winter, or managed to squeeze in a day trip for a spot of skiing, you’ll have made the most of the winter break in Lombardy’s capital city.

Milan in the winter will be cold, but it doesn’t mean that you won’t have a lot of fun. It’ll be a winter adventure that you’ll never forget.

Are you considering visiting Milan in winter? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Hope Brotherton

Hope is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Birmingham, England, she is passionate about budget-friendly travel and incorporating greener and more eco-friendly travel into her adventures. She keeps returning to Italy but loves to travel around any European country.

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

Feb 25, 2021 • 8 min read

Woman admiring the village of Bellagio during a winter afternoon.

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.

Cruise around the beautiful Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore

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.

View of Bergamo, Italy in the sunset light

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.

Family enjoying a view over Lake Garda, Italy

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.

An aerial shot of a river running through the center of a medieval city

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.

A medieval hilltop town surrounded by a valley

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.

The ceiling of the main nave of the Certosa di Pavia; it is domed and vaulted, and covered in detailed and colourful frescoes and tilework.

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.

Formula One cars drive around the Monza race track

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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Winter in Milan: The Complete Winter Guide to Milan in 2024 (tips by local)

Dreaming of visiting Milan in winter? Our local experts reveal why it's wonderful despite the cold, including the best things to do, cheaper prices, smaller crowds, and Milan's festive holiday charm.

Last Update: March 27, 2024

Destination

Winter in Milan brings crisp, cold air, holiday charm, and fewer crowds—the perfect time to explore this historic Italian city. We have been to Milan many times, seems like our must-visit destination in Italy, afterall. This guide to Milan in winter will highlight everything you should know to have the best time and get back home with unforgettable memories.

Milan in wintertime gets better, with the Christmas atmosphere, lights up, nativity scene in the churches, and cosy bars to taste a fantastic hot chocolate. If you are lucky enough, you can also witness snow, as January and February in Milan get extremely cold.

Join us as we share the best things to do, top tips, and everything you need to know for an unforgettable Milan getaway during the winter months.

Is Milan worth going to in the winter?

Absolutely! Although Milan can get cold and rainy during winter, there are still many amazing things to see and do. As Italy’s fashion and design capital, Milan shines year-round. The crowds are smaller, prices are lower, and the city has a cosy charm during the winter.

You can tour the iconic Duomo, see Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper , browse the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and enjoy the ambience of the Navigli district and Brera . Don’t let winter stop you from experiencing Milan’s elegance and style!

Overview of Milan in Winter

Milan in winter offers a magical atmosphere you won’t find any other time of year. The city sparkles with Christmas lights and decorative holiday displays that transform main plazas and shopping galleries . Locals bundle up in long coats, scarves, and stylish winter fashion as they go about their daily routines and prepare for the festive season.

While December draws the largest crowds to see the magnificent Christmas markets and holiday performances, January and February bring lower hotel rates and thinner crowds at top sites like the Duomo di Milano and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

Milan winters typically bring cold temperatures ranging from 30-50°F and the chance for rain and snow. The winter months are one of the driest times to visit, but we still recommend packing layers and waterproof shoes to combat chill and unpredictable weather.

No matter when you visit in winter, Milan captivates with twinkling lights, festive displays, and seasonal charm around every corner.

Snow in Milan in winter - Duomo Square with the snow is fantastic and glamourous

Milan Weather in Winter

Milan has a humid subtropical climate, which means winters are cold and damp. Here’s an overview of typical weather conditions each winter month:

Milan in December

In December Milan, daytime temperatures average 45-50°F and may dip below freezing at night. December is Milan’s rainiest month, so pack waterproof outerwear and shoes. The first half of December still occasionally sees warm, sunny days, while late December always brings a true winter chill.

January in Milan

After the glamorous December, Milan in January is a bit grey, and we suggest you look directly to explore the Northern Capital of Italy in February. Daytime highs hover around 40°F while night time lows drop to 30°F or lower. January sees a mix of rainy days and cold, sunny days. Snow is possible but rare in Milan city proper.

Milan in February

February in Milan is perhaps the coldest time of the year. However, Milan in February means Carnival. Even though it’s not the best city to celebrate carnival in Italy, it gets the atmosphere a bit warmer. During the day, the temperatures climb back to the 40s Fahrenheit. Nights remain chilly, with lows in the 30s. Rain is common, but snow is unlikely. A warm coat, scarf, gloves, and hat are still essential through the end of February.

What is winter like in Milan?

Winters in Milan are cool and damp. December through February are the coldest months, with average highs of 6-9°C (43-48°F) and average lows around freezing. Milan gets a fair amount of rain during the winter, so bring an umbrella!

The good news is there is very little snow in Milan, and the city is well-prepared to handle winter weather. With plenty of cafés, museums and shopping galleries, there are ample opportunities to warm up indoors. Just be sure to bundle up when venturing outside!

How to spend one day in Milan | Complete itinerary

Best places to visit in Italy in winter

Milano Navigli is one of the most trendy areas in the northern Capital of Italy - Enjoy the night in Milan

Top Things to Do in Milan in Winter

Even with chillier weather, Milan still shines in winter thanks to holiday spirit, festive events, and plenty of indoor cultural attractions. Here are the top things to do:

Climb up to to Duomo di Milano rooftop rooftop

The iconic Gothic Cathedral is even more magical, dusted with snow or illuminated at night. Don’t miss a chance to see the intricate façade up close and gaze up at the spires inside the hollow interior. Pre-book your skip-the-line ticket to avoid a long wait. Climbing the rooftop offers stunning city views, but note the open-air terraces close to high winds or snow.

Roll your heel at the centre of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

Even in winter, the gorgeous 19th-century shopping arcade entices visitors to slow down and window shop. Holiday decorations adorn the elaborate glass-domed ceilings throughout the winter months.

Stop for a coffee, browse the luxury boutiques, or visit historic restaurants like Savini for polished Northern Italian cuisine.

See Da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper’

Milan in winter might be the right occasion to enjoy some museums. The famous Last Supper painting of Leonardo Da Vinci is housed in the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie just outside the city centre.

You’ll need to reserve tickets far in advance, but it’s worth planning ahead to view Da Vinci’s famous depict up close. Also, consider that winter months in Milan are the low season; enjoy the galleries alone if visiting the city around November or January.

Check Out Christmas Markets

From late November through December, Milan hosts traditional Christmas markets perfect for finding unique gifts and feeling the holiday spirit. The largest market is in Piazza del Duomo, while smaller markets are in neighbourhoods like Brera, Porta Genova, and Porta Garibaldi.

Christmas Lights in Via Montenapoleone in Milan - Winter activities in Milan

Best Christmas markets in Milan:

Duomo Christmas Market

This is Milan’s most popular Christmas market, located in front of the gorgeous Gothic Duomo Cathedral. You’ll find artisanal gifts, ornaments, nativity scenes, sweets, and local food products among over 140 colourfully lit stalls. There’s also a kid’s area, entertainment, and a towering Christmas tree.

Oh Bej Oh Bej Market

Dating back to the 16th century, this traditional market runs every December near the Castello Sforzesco. It sells handmade crafts, home decorations, toys, and speciality Milanese holiday treats. You’ll find crowds browsing the 300 stalls, sampling street food, and enjoying live music.

Winter Market at Porta Garibaldi

At this lively Christmas market, walk under the dazzling arches illuminated by over 600,000 LED lights. Browse stalls selling unique artisanal gifts, sweets, wines, and more. There’s also an ice-skating rink, Santa’s house, petting zoo and other kids’ attractions.

Brera District Christmas Market

Brera hosts an intimate, artsy Christmas market in its cobbled streets and alleys. Find handmade jewellery, ceramics, knitwear, ornaments, and foods from local shops and vendors. It’s a great spot to mingle with locals and get in the holiday spirit.

Artigianarte Christmas Market

Shop for quality handmade crafts and art at over 100 stalls in the pedestrian area of Via della Spiga . Besides gifts, you’ll also find traditional treats like panettone, pandoro, torrone nougat, and strudel. It’s open on the weekends in December.

Winter Village at Gae Aulenti Plaza

This popular market has a Swiss Alpine theme with wooden chalets . Shop for clothing, accessories, gourmet foods, and health and beauty products from Italian artisans. Enjoy the festivities, including live shows, Santa’s sleigh, and game stands.

Go Shopping in the Quadrilatero d’Oro

Milan is a shopper’s paradise, with the “golden rectangle” neighbourhood near Duomo being the epicentre of luxury boutiques. Even if your budget is small, it’s fun to window shop the chic stores and upscale shopping galleries like Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

Take in Leonardo Da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper’

You’ll need to reserve tickets far in advance, but it’s worth planning ahead to view Da Vinci’s famous mural up close. The painting is housed in the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie just outside the city centre.

Visit some local shops in Brera

Brera might be one of the most characteristic neighbourhoods in Milan’s city centre. We suggest you spend some time in the well-curated alleyways,

Explore Sforza Castle

Transport back to Renaissance days wandering the grounds of this grand castle complex that once housed Milan’s ruling family. Spend time admiring the artefacts in the castle museums and climb the tower for views over the Sempione Gardens.

See Michelangelo’s ‘Pietà Rondanini’

One of Michelangelo’s final sculptures, this “unfinished” Pietà, resides in a museum at Sforza Castle. It’s a rare opportunity to view one of the Renaissance legend’s original works up close in Milan.

Stroll Through Sempione Park and Arco della Pace

When you need a breath of fresh air, retreat to Milan’s largest park, situated behind Sforza Castle. The grounds offer leafy walkways, statues, fountains, and great views of the Arco della Pace triumphal arch.

Catch an Opera at Teatro alla Scala

Attending a winter opera or ballet at Milan’s famed Teatro alla Scala is an only-in-Milan experience. The theatre’s season runs from December to March. Book well in advance as performances sell out fast. If you can’t catch a show, do a museum tour to glimpse behind the scenes.

Navigli area - Most trendy place in Milan with aperitief bar always open

Sip Winter Drinks in Navigli

While summer draws big crowds to Navigli for aperitivo, the neighbourhood maintains its charm in winter. Rain or shine, sip vin brulé (mulled wine), cioccolata calda (hot chocolate), or spritz cocktails canalside or at one of many cosy cafes and bars.

Take a Day Trip to Lake Como

Escape the winter chill with a day trip to the glittering shores of Lake Como, about an hour from Milan by train. Enjoy postcard views on a scenic cruise, check out lakeside villas, or simply find a cafe with a view to relax over coffee or dinner.

Best Winter Events & Festivals

Beyond the Christmas season, Milan hosts fun events and entertainment to beat the winter blahs all season long. Here are my top picks:

Carnevale Ambrosiano – Costumed carnival floats and crowds fill the streets in late January before Lent begins. A highlight is the giant puppet parade.
Milan Fashion Week – The winter edition in February sees glamorous runway shows and parties. While events are exclusive, fashion spotting is fun citywide.
La Vendemmia – During the winter grape harvest in January, wine bars host tastings and workshops on winemaking. Even novices can sample Lombardy’s best vintages.
Chinese New Year Festival – There is Chinatown in Milan too, and the community is lively. Late January/early February the celebration starts with dragon dances, firecrackers, and festive street food to ring in the Lunar New Year.
Art Exhibitions – Catch blockbuster shows at Pinacoteca di Brera , Museo del Novecento, or Fabbrica del Vapore highlighting Old Master painters or modern artists.
Teatro alla Scala Season – Beyond the opulent opera, ballet performances also run from December through March , featuring classics like The Nutcracker and Swan Lake.

Panettone is a traditional cake eaten in Northern Italy at Christmas

Holiday Season in Milan

During December, Christmas transforms Milan into a magical winter wonderland. Here are the top holiday experiences:

Duomo Christmas Market – Hundreds of artisan stalls fill Piazza del Duomo, selling handmade gifts, ornaments, and delicious Italian treats. An enormous Christmas tree towers over the square.
Presepe at Duomo – Inside the Cathedral, find a large nativity scene made with intricate wood figurines and sculptures. It’s been a beloved tradition since the 16th century.
Panettone – Milanese bakeries overflow with this sweet fruit bread eaten during the holidays. Locals debate whose panettone reigns supreme: Cova or Marchesi are top contenders.
Christmas Concerts – Teatro alla Scala and Duomo di Milano host special holiday music performances like Handel’s Messiah. Check websites for details and tickets.
New Year’s Eve – Italians observe San Silvestro on December 31st with lavish parties and public celebrations. Fireworks light up the sky around Duomo to ring in the new year.

How to get to Milan

Milan is accessible year-round by plane, train, bus, and car. Here are your transportation options for getting to Milan in winter:

Fly into Milan Malpensa Airport or Milan Linate Airport. Both airports operate year-round. Malpensa handles most international flights, while Linate serves domestic Italian routes. Shuttle buses, taxis, and trains whisk you from either airport to downtown Milan in 30-50 minutes.

TO MILAN BY TRAIN

Milan is a major rail hub in northern Italy. High-speed Frecciarossa and Italo trains provide frequent connections from cities like Venice, Florence, and Rome in 3-5 hours. Slower regional trains also connect Milan to destinations across Italy and Europe.

TO MILAN BY BUS

Eurolines and Flixbus offer affordable bus routes throughout Italy and Europe with Milan service. The main bus station is next to Milan Central Station.

REACH MILAN BY CAR

Milan sits on several major motorways if driving from elsewhere in Italy, Switzerland, France, or Slovenia. Underground parking garages around the city centre provide convenient parking.

How to get around Milan - The city is sustainable and locals gets around mainly by bike

Getting around Milan in winter

Public transports.

Metro – Milan’s efficient subway system includes 4 lines that connect major attractions like Duomo, Cadorna, and Centrale stations. Purchase tickets before boarding.
Tram: Old fashioned way to get around Milan, but still one of the best ways to see the city. The trams complement the metro system with routes through key areas like Navigli and, of course, the city centre.
Bus: Like the tram, buses conveniently fill transit gaps with connections throughout the city and suburbs. It’s easy to pick accommodation outside the outskirts and get into Milan, staying on a budget. Tickets for buses cost only 1.5€, and you can purchase them at a “Tabacchi” or “Edicola”.

We love walking, and Milan offers one of the best pedestrian-only city centres in Italy. Lace up your walking shoes! Milan’s compact centre is perfect for exploring many attractions on foot, from the Cathedral to the shopping road, Palazzo Sforzesco and more. You can get around Milan in two days , just walking around.

BIKE SHARING

Take two wheels on Milan’s bike paths using shared bike bikes available to rent by the hour or day. Check BikeMi for more info.

TAXI IN MILAN // UBER AVAILABLE

Official white taxis queue at stands around the city and can be hailed on the street when the white “taxi” sign is lit. Remember that you can always get an Uber in Milan .

Best area to stay in winter in Milan

Milan offers stylish accommodations fit for every budget. Here are some top neighbourhood picks for your winter visit:

Duomo District: Situate yourself right in the heart of the action near Milan Cathedral and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. While the area is filled with 5-star hotels, it’s still possible to find budget options and B&BS if booking in advance.
Brera: Milan’s artsy district dazzles with boutique hotels full of character. You’re steps from Pinacoteca di Brera and many shops and eateries.
Navigli – Base yourself in Milan’s hip canal quarter to enjoy charming cafes, wine bars, and evening aperitivo scenes. Access to nightlife and restaurants is unbeatable.
Porta Garibaldi: This newer district features Milan’s skyscraper skyline. It’s popular with business travellers but offers easy sightseeing transport links.
Near Milano Centrale: Lodging options around the central train station range from budget to luxury. It’s a convenient transportation hub for day trips outside the city.

Milan Sforza Castle - Column of St. Ambrogio

Where to stay in Milan in winter

Budget: Ostello Bello is the best option to socialize and visit Milan on a budget. Two locations are offering a central position within the sights of Milan. Check the rates and availability.

Mid-Range: Hotel Metropoli – Located right behind Milan Train station, it is one of the best mid-range hotels in Milan. Boosting an incredible rate with over 2000 reviews, it is within walking distance from the centre and also offers a direct link by bus and train from the airports. CHECK ALL THE AMENITIES.

CHECK OUT PRICES AND AVAILABILITY FOR MILAN HOTEL METROPOLI!

Luxury in Milan: Via della Spiga n50 is one of the most luxurious options to stay in Milan in winter. A fantastic loft in one of the most trendy districts of Milan. This sustainable apartment is located 800 metres from Villa Necchi Campiglio and 700 metres from San Babila Metro Station.

Book your stay at Via della Spiga 50 HERE!

Lake Como is one of the most popular day trips from Milan

Best Day Trips from Milan

With an excellent transportation network, taking day trips from Milan to see more of Italy’s beauty is easy. Top winter picks include:

Lake Como: Ride the train an hour north to check out charming lakeside towns like Bellagio, Varenna, or Menaggio. Centuries-old villas and mountain scenery astound. Also, consider that locals reaches the shores for the closest beaches to Milan , well, not in winter.

Bergamo & Città Alta : You might have heard of Bergamo because it is one of the closest airports to Milan (cheaper with low-budget carriers). Bergamo is a medieval city on a hilltop that wows visitors with its UNESCO-listed architecture and sweeping valley views. It’s under an hour away by train.

Verona: The best thing about Milan, is that it is centered within Northern Italy. In fact, you can journey west to Verona (just over an hour by train) to see Juliet’s balcony and ancient Roman ruins before warming up with a cup of hot chocolate.

Pavia: Little unknown Pavia is a hidden gem in Northern Italy. Hop a 30-minute train south to this off-the-radar town boasting Italy’s oldest university and excellent dining options.

Outlet shopping at Serravalle Scrivia: Winter in Milan means sales. Take advantage of bargains and get some fashionable accessories to get some great photos while in Milan . Take a day trip to Milan’s outlet malls; Serravalle Scrivia is about 1.5 hours away by train. You’ll find designer brands at discounted prices.

Tips for Visiting Milan in Winter

Follow these tips and tricks to make the most of your winter visit to Milan:

Pack waterproof shoes – Puddles and wet sidewalks are common. Waterproof boots will keep your feet warm and dry. Bring shoe grips for extra traction.
Check opening hours – Some museums and smaller shops close on Mondays or have reduced hours in the winter off-season. Plan ahead.
Reservations are key – Book tickets for The Last Supper, Duomo roof access, La Scala shows, and food tours well before your trip.
Dress in layers – Milan’s layered fashion comes in handy to adapt to fluctuating temperatures throughout the day. Under layers keep you warm indoors and out.
Mind your belongings – Pickpockets can lurk around crowded tourist sites, metro stations, and Christmas markets. Use anti-theft bags and keep valuables secure.
Visit covered food markets – When it’s too cold or wet to be outside, duck into the Mercato Centrale or smaller neighbourhood markets to sample Italian cheeses, cured meats, pastries, and street food.
Don’t wait for summer – With fewer crowds, winter is arguably the best time to visit Milan, and you’ll avoid the sweltering summer heat!

FAQ – Milan in winter

Is milan good to go in january.

Absolutely, January is a great time to visit Milan! As one of the quieter months for tourism, you’ll avoid major crowds at attractions like the Duomo and Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper. January also hosts Milan Fashion Week and big sales after the holidays, so shopping is excellent. Average temperatures are chilly at 3°C (37°F), but sunny winter days are common. There are plenty of indoor activities available, with numerous museums, churches, shops and restaurants. Just pack warm clothes and an umbrella, and January can be an ideal time to experience Milan’s refined sophistication.

Is Milan colder than Rome?

Yes, Milan is generally colder than Rome in winter. Located farther north, Milan sees lower average temperatures from December to February. While Rome’s winter highs are around 13°C (55°F), Milan’s average out at 6-9°C (43-48°F). Overnight lows frequently drop below freezing in Milan as well. Snow is also more likely in Milan. However, Milan is well-prepared for winter weather, with ample heating and indoor options. With proper attire and realistic expectations, the cold is easy to manage. Choose Milan for fashion and sophistication or Rome for history and outdoor charms.

Is Italy expensive in winter?

No, Italy is generally less expensive in the winter than during the peak tourist season. Hotels, flights, tours and attractions often offer discounts in the winter months between November and March. While Italy is never cheap, you can find lower hotel rates, cheap flights and fewer crowds from December to February. Meals and souvenirs are also easier on your wallet. The trade-off is chilly weather and some venue closures. Overall, winter is an ideal season to experience Italy’s magic on a budget if you don’t mind bundling up!

What is the coldest month in Milan?

January is generally the coldest month in Milan, with average high temperatures around 5°C (41°F) and average lows below freezing. Heavy coats, hats, gloves, and warm layers are a must throughout January, as frosty weather is common. While Milan sees a mix of sun and clouds, overnight temperatures often dip well below 0°C (32°F). February is nearly as cold, while December sees slightly milder weather. No matter when you visit in winter, packing warm winter clothing is essential for exploring Milan in comfort.

What are the cheapest months to visit Milan?

November and January-February tend to be the cheapest months for visiting Milan. Flight and hotel prices dip after summer high season and over the winter holidays. Attractions also offer lower admission in the winter months when tourism declines. You can enjoy Milan’s sophisticated culture without breaking the bank from November to February. Just be prepared for chilly weather and occasional rain – umbrella and warm layers are musts. Ultimately, the trade-off for lower prices is battling the cold Milan winter.

Is Milan crowded in January?

No, Milan is typically not crowded in January. As one of the quieter months for tourism, January offers a respite after the bustling holiday season. Attractions like the Duomo, Sforza Castle and La Scala Opera House are far less packed. Hotel availability is abundant, and you’ll find shorter lines at top restaurants and museums. Flights and trains are easier to book, too. With fewer tourists, experiencing Milan’s refinement and style is more enjoyable in January. Brave the winter chill, and you’ll be rewarded with minimal crowds.

Which is safer, Milan or Rome?

Both Milan and Rome are very safe Italian cities to visit. Violent crime is rare, and police heavily monitor key tourist districts. Use basic precautions like avoiding deserted areas at night, keeping valuables secure, and being aware of pickpockets on public transport. Overall, Milan and Rome present few safety risks for travellers. Milan may feel safer at night, given its bustling nightlife. However, Rome also has very low crime rates in its central areas. You can confidently explore both cities with minimal risk. Focus on the amazing sights instead of safety concerns!

Is December a good time to visit Milan?

Yes, December is a lovely time to visit Milan! The Christmas spirit is in full swing, with festive lights, decorations and markets around the city. Locals are bustling with shopping for the holidays, too. It’s a great time to see the Duomo lit up at night and stroll Via Monte Napoleone’s chic boutiques. With average highs of 6°C (43°F), the weather is brisk but manageable with the right clothing. There’s a bit more tourist traffic than in other winter months, but nothing like summer. December offers a magical Milanese escape before peak New Year’s prices.

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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

View over Isola Bella, Borromean Islands

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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Day Trips From Milan

Best Day Trips From Milan, Italy

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Best known for being a hub for high fashion, Milan is also a good base from which visitors can travel to a lake and other parts of Italy's Lombardy region. Many of the spots on the list below can be easily reached by public transportation, and make fine one- or two-day trips for tourists staying in Milan.

Most of these places can be reached by train from Milan's central train station.

The towns of Como, on the southwest shore of Lake Como , and Lecco, on the southeast shore, are easily reached by train from Milan in less than an hour.

Como is a walled town with a historic center, lively squares, good restaurants and a funicular that goes up above Como for hiking trails and beautiful views. If you want to visit other towns on the lake, there are buses and ferries from both Como and Lecco.

Cristian Ricciardi/EyeEm/Getty Images

Cremona is home to the famous handmade Stradivarius violins and it has a beautiful, compact center that's pleasant for walking and easily reached on foot from the train station. Trains from Milan take a little over an hour.

Most of the sights are centered around the main square including the Romanesque cathedral, baptistery, and the Torrazzo, the 13th-century bell tower with the world's largest astronomical clock. Climb up the tower for fantastic views of the city and countryside.

The old city, Bergamo Alta, sits on a hill above Bergamo Bassa, the modern city. It's about an hour by train from Milan. Bergamo Alta is a medieval walled hill town with old squares, beautiful monuments, and buildings and great views.

Book a Guided Tour of Bergamo, Franciacorta and Lake Iseo with transportation from Milan from Select Italy . In addition to the city of Bergamo, you'll visit a small, charming lake and the Franciacorta sparkling wine region.

Pavia is a university city on the Ticino River 35 km south of Milan. It's about half an hour by train from Milan's central station. Pavia is known as the city of 100 towers but only a few remain intact today. Its interesting historic center has good examples of Romanesque and Medieval architecture. Nearby is the impressive Certosa di Pavia that can be reached by bus from Pavia.

Brescia is a city often overlooked by tourists but it's well worth a visit, for its Roman remains, its castle, its Renaissance squares, and its interesting medieval city center. Be sure to check out the City Museum in the Monastery of Santa Julia if you make the trip. Trains from Milan take 45 to 90 minutes and a local bus connects the station with the city center.

Lake Garda, Peschiera del Garda

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Peschiera del Garda, on the southern shore of Lake Garda , can be reached in a little over an hour from Milan. The train station is within walking distance of the town center and the lake. Peschiera has a small historic center with shops and restaurants inside 16th-century walls built in the shape of a pentagon.

There are small pebble beaches and walks along the lake. Desenzano del Garda, a little closer to Milan, also has a train station. From either town, there are ferries and buses to other Lake Garda towns.

Lake Maggiore, Stresa and Arona

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Stresa has a small walking center with tourist shops and restaurants, a lakeside promenade, gardens, villas and a harbor where you can get a ferry to Isola Bella and other places on the lake.

Arona is a little closer to Milan and a little larger than Stresa. It has very good restaurants and shops but fewer tourist facilities. By train, Arona is under an hour and Stresa is just over an hour from Milan. Both stations are right by the towns.

Parma , in the Emilia-Romagna region , has a compact historical center with several good attractions. Its Romanesque cathedral is covered with beautiful frescoes and the 12th-century Baptistery is one of Italy's most interesting buildings.

As it's the home of the famous Parma ham and Parmesan cheese, Parma has great cuisine and excellent restaurants. Trains take between 60 and 90 minutes from Milan and the center is about a 10-minute walk from the station.

While it's a little farther from Milan than most of the other places on this list, the high-speed train takes just over an hour (and costs about twice what the slower two-hour train does).

Bologna , also in the Emilia-Romagna region, is a beautiful old university city with lavish porticoed walkways and squares, fine historic buildings and a medieval center. It's also known for its excellent cuisine.

Turin or Torino

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Turin , or Torino, is the largest city in the Piedmont region. Turin has Baroque cafes and architecture, arcaded shopping promenades, large squares and museums including a large Egyptian museum.

The Mole Antonelliana is a tall tower that houses the cinema museum and has a lift you can take for views of the city. Trains from Milan take close to two hours. Turin's Porta Nuova station is in central Turin but some trains only stop at Porta Susa, from where you can take a bus into the city.

Mantua or Mantova

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Mantua is a Renaissance city with pretty squares, a good historic center and a huge Ducal Palace with more than 500 rooms, making it the largest residence after the Vatican.

Although it takes almost two hours to get there by train, you can take the Mantua: Lombardy's Sleeping Beauty guided tour that includes transportation from Milan, lunch, and guided tours of the Ducal Palace and other parts of the town.

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Siena Guide: Planning Your Trip

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The 14 Best Day Trips from Rome

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How to Save Money on Your Italian Vacation

Beautiful Day Trips from Milan You Shouldn’t Miss

Are you looking for day trips from Milan and not sure where to start? From lovely Lake Como to the scenic Bernina red train, find out the best excursions from Milan.

Whether you like small charming towns, lakes, mountains, or art cities, there are many beautiful day trips from Milan you can choose from.

Best known as one of the Fashion Capitals and often overlooked, there are plenty of things to do in Milan in 2 days . Furthermore, the city is a perfect gateway to explore enchanting spots within easy reach. One of the reasons I like living in Milan is being near to almost everything. It takes about one hour to go from Milan to Lake Como, and in a couple of hours, you can get to the Alps, and by high-speed train, Florence is less than two hours away. That’s reason enough to add Milan to your Italy travel bucket list .

Over the last few years, I’ve been exploring my own backyard more and more. The result is that I’m increasingly stunned by how many fantastic places there are near Milan, including some of the best Italy hidden gems .

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Beautiful day trips from Milan you shouldn’t miss

I willingly picked up gorgeous places you can easily reach from Milan by train so that you won’t need a car. There’s no better way to spoil holidays than traffic and the stress of finding a parking place. Sometimes, a day tour from Milan is the best and easiest way to discover beautiful spots.

Actually, when planning your trip, you may want to know about the best areas to stay in Milan . Choosing the right neighborhood to visit the city, also conveniently located to experience day trips from Milan, can make a substantial difference.

1. Mesmerizing Lake Como

Lake Como has been a favorite tourist destination for centuries. George Clooney may well have sparked an interest in one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy. However, many other celebrities chose this corner of paradise before him.

There are so many gorgeous places that I never get tired of Lake Como, and every time I try to explore something new. However, if you only have time to visit Lake Como as a day trip from Milan, here are some of Lake Como’s towns and attractions that are a must.

Except in Winter, Bellagio is overflowing with tourists, especially from the United States, but the town is so picturesque that it’s almost impossible to skip it. Stroll along the pretty cobblestone alleys and look at the quaint shops. To get away from the crowds, I recommend you walk toward the town of San Giovanni, and on the way back, stop and visit the stunning Villa Melzi .

A charming town on the Lecco arm, Varenna is another beautiful spot you shouldn’t miss. Furthermore, it’s very convenient to take the boat to Bellagio. You’ll love the colorful houses overlooking the tiny harbor, and if you have enough time, I recommend you visit the gardens of Villa Monastero .

For breathtaking views of Lake Como, walk the steep road up to the Vezio Castle . The ruins are actually lovely, but most of all, you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring scenery. The hike uphill takes about 20-30 minutes but believe me, it’s worth the effort.

A Boat trip

You should absolutely take a boat trip on Lake Como to admire the stunning villas and take in the dramatic beauty of the mountains dropping steeply to the lake. Although Como is usually the most common starting point, you can also board other towns along the lake.

Lake Como Villas

George Clooney aside, Lake Como has been known for its magnificent villas for a long time, and some of them were also the setting for famous films . For example, George Lucas chose Villa del Balbianello for Star Wars II – Attack of the Clones. In the 60s, Luchino Visconti filmed part of Rocco and his Brothers in Bellagio. And some scenes of James Bond Casino Royale took place at Villa del Balbianello and Villa La Gaeta. Last but not least, Ocean’s Twelve is partly set in two famous villas: Villa Erba and Villa Oleandra. This latter is the mansion George Clooney bought on Lake Como.

There are so many villas on Lake Como that to visit them all, you would need to spend days. However, on a day trip from Milan, you’ll likely have time for only one or two. The most famous are Villa Serbelloni, Villa Melzi, and Villa d’Este, but there are indeed many more. So, if you need help to make up your mind, why not buy a book?

Italian Gardens of Lake Como is a beautiful photography book that will undoubtedly inspire you. Travel guides are always helpful; have a look at Lonely Planet Italian Lakes and the Rough Guide to Italian Lakes .

How to plan a day trip to Lake Como from Milan

Getting to Lake Como from Milan on your own is relatively easy. However, a group or private tour is recommended if you want to discover more of this enchanting area. There is no need to figure out train, bus, and boat schedules or draw your itinerary in advance.

Guided day tours from Milan to Lake Como

Lake Como and Bellagio : A full-day excursion to Lake Como and delightful Bellagio, including the bus from Milan and a ferry ride on the lake.
Lake Como, St. Moritz & Bernina Train Day Trip. Discover the beauty of Lake Como and embark on the scenic Bernina train amid one of the most beautiful alpine scenery .
Lake Como Day Trip from Milan : Varenna, Bellagio, and Tremezzo. A day trip from Milan to Lake Como by train and boat. You’ll discover Varenna, hop on a boat, and cruise to Bellagio. Afterward, you’ll hop on another ferry to charming Tremezzo and visit Villa Carlotta.
Lake Como and Valtellina Valley Small-Group Tour from Milan . Discover Lake Como and the beautiful, off-the-beaten-track Valtellina Valley.

However, if you prefer to travel from Milan to Lake Como on an independent day trip, here are a few tips:

How to get to Lake Como from Milan : Frequent trains connect Milan to Como and Lecco. Depending on where you stay in Milan, you can leave from Milano Centrale Station or Milano Cadorna. The journey is about one hour. Check the timetables and buy your tickets .
A boat ride is a must, so check the timetables of the ferries sailing Lake Como .
A fun way to visit Lake Como is taking a 3-hour tour with electric bikes equipped with an iPad mini and Bluetooth headphones.

2. Lake Garda, a gem to discover

Lake Garda has been a favorite destination for Germans for a long time, but to tourists from the UK and the USA, it is lesser-known than Lake Como. The truth is that Lake Garda is every bit as beautiful, even without… George Clooney (who, by the way, is not easy to spot when he stays at his villa on Lake Como).

Sirmione is considered a gem of Lake Garda’s southern shore, whose beauty was appreciated by writers, poets, and artists like Goethe , Stendhal , Lord Byron, D.H. Lawrence, Gustav Klimt, and Maria Callas.

Picturesque and romantic , Sirmione seems far away from the hustle-bustle of Milan. First, visit the famous Scaliger Castle, which dates back to the 13th century. Next, admire the Catullo’s Caves, the remains of a Roman Villa overlooking the lake’s blue water. Next, get lost in the alleys lined with colorful houses. Finally, indulge yourself at one of the alfresco cafés and chill out in this enchanting spot of Lombardy.

Tip: If possible, avoid the weekend when Sirmione is jam-packed with tourists.

How to plan a day trip to Lake Garda from Milan

Lake Garda is a bit farther from Milan than Lake Como and also a little more challenging to visit independently in a day. For that reason, a guided tour is often the best option if you want to have a day trip from Milan to Lake Garda.

Guided day tours from Milan to Lake Garda

Full-Day Coach Trip to Verona and Lake Garda . Have a walking tour of Verona, visit Sirmione and Desenzano, and enjoy a private boat cruise on Lake Garda .
Verona and Lake Garda Day Trip from Milan . See Juliet’s House in Verona and learn about the Arena, the famous amphitheater. Discover romantic Sirmione.

In case you prefer to visit Lake Garda on your own, here are a few tips:

How to get to Sirmione from Milan : Frequent trains connect Milano Centrale to Desenzano-Sirmione (Frecciabianca 1h, Regional 1h 25min). Check the timetables and buy your tickets . From Desenzano, you can reach Sirmione either by bus or by boat (about 20 min for both).

Even if you travel independently to Lake Garda, you can’t miss a boat tour . Here are a few pleasant excursions:

Lake Garda Mini Cruise: Sirmione Peninsula . Discover some of the most enchanting spots in northern Italy.
Lake Garda Afternoon Sightseeing Cruise from Sirmione , including a snack and sparkling wine.

3. A Scenic Train Journey to Switzerland and the Alps

Milan is close to the Switzerland border and the mountains . Therefore, although the trip is quite long, you can discover the Swiss Alps on a day trip from Milan and experience one of the most scenic train rides in Switzerland and overall Europe .

How to plan a day trip to St. Moritz on the Bernina Express

Although you could hire a car and drive, I strongly recommend you take the Bernina train from Tirano to St. Moritz , one of the best mountain resorts in Switzerland. Then, you’ll be off on an unforgettable train journey amid a breathtaking landscape.

The journey is too long and complicated to organize a day trip to St. Moritz independently. There are, however, a few options for a memorable – although very long – one-day excursion from Milan.

Guided day tours from Milan to the Swiss Alps

Bernina & St.Moritz Day Tour from Milan . Travel by GT coach to Tirano and then board the panoramic train and ride the steepest railway in the world.
Swiss Alps Bernina Express Rail Tour from Milan .
Bernina scenic train and Lake Como . If you’re short on time and want to discover Lake Como and the Swiss Alps, you may want to look at this tour. It sure will be rushed, but at least it’ll allow you to enjoy these beautiful areas briefly.

4. Bergamo, the medieval town on the hill

The charming city of Bergamo is one of the most unforgettable day trips from Milan if you want to visit a stunning and romantic medieval city.

Bergamo old town is perched atop a hill and is one of the most enchanting spots in the Lombardy region. Although often overlooked, Bergamo is an easy day trip from Milan, and it’s hard not to fall in love with this charming town.

A cable car (or, if you like to walk, a beautiful footpath) connects the lower city to the historical center, a medieval town surrounded by walls built in the 16th Century. Cobblestone streets flanked by old buildings and elegant shops lead to the city’s main attractions: the old square (Piazza Vecchia), Palazzo della Ragione, the former town hall now a museum, the Colleoni chapel, a magnificent Renaissance building beautifully decorated, the Citadel square (Piazza della Cittadella), with the medieval tower and the Visconti Palace.

Tip: Bergamo is a popular spot for weekend excursions, so you better avoid Saturday and Sunday if you wish to beat the crowds.

How to plan a day trip to Bergamo

It’s very easy to get from Milan to Bergamo as there are regular train connections. The journey takes about 50-55min, and there’s a train every hour. Check the timetables and buy your tickets .

From the train station, you can reach Bergamo Alta – the old town – either by bus or by funicular. Once there, the best way to discover Bergamo is on foot.

Bergamo Guided Day Tours

If you don’t feel like getting to Bergamo on your own, there’s a half-day tour to Bergamo from Milan that might interest you.
For those who love active travel, check out the 3-hour e-bike tour to discover Bergamo’s surroundings.

5. Genoa: Stunning city on the sea

If you’re keen to breathe the sea, don’t miss an excursion to Genoa. Indeed, Genoa is an easy day trip from Milan to explore a lesser-known and beautiful city in northern Italy.

First of all, stroll in the picturesque narrow alleys ( caruggi ) near the harbor (be careful with your belongings, though). Then, take a tour of the Palazzi dei Rolli , the magnificent palaces showing the city’s past splendors, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Finally, enjoy Boccadasse, the old fishermen’s neighborhood with its typical colored houses nestled on a cove.

Don’t miss tasting the local food specialties like focaccia (a flatbread baked in the oven), trenette or trofie with pesto sauce, or cima alla Genovese (veal meat filled with vegetables).

If you leave Milan early enough, you should head a little further along the coast to visit one of the charming seaside villages. Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, and Camogli are not far away.

Tip: Genoa offers many attractions for families, including the Aquarium (the largest in Europe), and the Città dei Bambini, an interactive museum for kids between 2 and 14. Since you’ll have limited time, should you decide to visit the Genoa Aquarium, I suggest you buy your ticket in advance, with the option to choose your time slot .

How to plan a day trip to Genoa

It’s easy to get to Genoa from Milan. Frequent trains connect Milano Centrale to Genoa (Intercity/Frecciabianca 1h 30min, Regional 1h 50min), and you can check the timetables and buy your tickets in advance.

In case you don’t feel like visiting Genoa and the Italian Riviera on your own, a good option is the full-day guided tour to Genoa and Portofino . You’ll discover some of the best sights of Genoa and enjoy a boat tour to Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure. These two colorful towns are among the most beautiful on the Ligurian coast and very popular in summer.

If you decide to organize your own day trip to Genoa from Milan, there are a few guided tours worth looking at.

Guided tours and tickets: Genoa and the Italian Riviera

Genoa can be intimidating for first-time visitors. Therefore, a 2-hour guided visit to discover Genoa’s historical center is a good introduction. Another option is to take a private tour of Genoa with a local and see the most beautiful spots.
Alternatively, you can discover Genoa’s main attractions with a 1-hour rickshaw tour or on a Segway with a guide .
Another terrific way to explore Genoa is by taking a food walking tour to taste the delicious local specialties.
Check out this guided visit to the Rolli Palaces , a must-see in Genoa. When I first discovered them, they took my breath away.

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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to carefully selected products and services. If you purchase any of them, I get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Travel addict and passionate about photography, Simon Falvo started Wild About Travel back in 2009. Leveraging her strong PR background, she developed an extensive knowledge of Digital Communications and Content Creation. Besides travel writing Simon holds workshops and trainings, she collaborated with tourism boards for digital marketing campaigns and participated as a speaker at several events.

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Milan in Winter

Northern Italy is the perfect winter destination when you feel like combining outdoor activities, natural landscapes, entertainment and sightseeing. Don’t be scared by cold weather and choose Milan as a base to explore the Alps!

Let’s see how and when you can plan your next winter trip to Milan!

You might also like: How to spend one day in Milan 25 Interesting facts about Milan Northern Italy Itineraries

Table of Contents

Things to do in Milan in Winter

Milan in november.

Weather in Milan in November

The minimum temperature in Milan in November is 6°C and the maximum temperature is 11°C. November is quite rainy in Milan, so bring an umbrella with you!

Events, celebrations, and traditions in Milan in November

Nov 1st -All Saints : besides going to mass and bring some flowers to the cemeteries, locals are used to eating some biscuits named “Bread of the Dead”. Despite their gloomy name, they are delicious shortbread biscuits with dried figs, almonds, pine nuts, and raisins!

Things to do in Milan in November

Attend the opera at La Scala Theater: the best of the opera season is to be found from November to February and it’s also a great idea to spend a night out despite the cold! Check out the discounted tickets available at Teatro Alla Scala .
Watch some contemporary and futuristic architecture: have a walk around the award-winning Gae Aulenti Square, watch the green explosion of the Vertical Forest and spend a few hours in the brand-new districts of Porta Nuova and CityLife
Enjoy the artistic masterpieces of the Cathedral: November is one of the quietest months in Milan, so it’s the perfect occasion to enjoy a thorough visit to its Cathedral and its panoramic rooftop (more info at Duomo di Milano . – To make the best of your time, choose a guided tour with rooftop entry.

Why visit Milan in November

Pros: fewer tourists than usual
Cons: bad weather

Milan in December

duomo with christmas tree in Milan in winter

Weather in Milan in December

The minimum temperature in Milan in December is 2°C and the maximum temperature is 7°C. December is rather cold but it hardly ever rains. Mid-winter (Dec-Jan) is a dry season in Northern Italy, but it might snow.

Events, celebrations, and traditions in Milan in December

Dec. 7t – Patronal Feast of S. Ambrose: the Holiday Season starts today in Milan! On this occasion, a special fair takes place in the courtyard of the Sforza Castle: the so-called Obey Obey fair, which is a sort of large Christmas market lasting 1 week.
Dec. 8th – Feast of the Immaculate Conception : avoid Milan if you cannot stand some crazy Christmas shopping!
Dec. 25th – Christmas : the day’s program involves going to mass, enjoy a festive meal with family and friends and stay at home!
Dec 31st–New Year’s Eve: Milan has plenty of clubs, so you’ll be spoilt for choice! If you don’t like clubs, there’s a free concert in Piazza Duomo.
Christmas lights : wander around the city center and watch the 35Km of lights decorating 180 streets
Christmas trees : the main one stands in Piazza Duomo, but there are many Christmas trees scattered throughout the city center. For example, watch the sparkling one by Swarovski in the Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery!
Christmas markets : the main one is set up in Piazza Duomo but there’s also the Village of Wonders in the Indro Montanelli park with Santa’s Cabin and some entertainment for kids.
Nativity scene : the annual nativity scenes exhibition takes place in Piazza Duomo
Panettone : the traditional Italian Christmas cake is from Milan and you’ll see it in every bakery shop in all sizes, shapes and with all kinds of decorations.

galleria vittorio emanuele II - Milan in winter

Things to do in Milan in December

Spend some time in the Sforza Castle and take a guided tour to enjoy its many works of art. Then take a guided tour to The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci .
If you’re ok with huge crowds and lines in front and inside shops, boutiques, and shopping malls, enjoy local Christmas shopping !
Skate on ice : there are several skating rinks in town but the best ones are at the Mysterious Baths of Carlo Botta street ( Inverno ai Bagni Misteriosi ), in Gae Aulenti Square ( Gaeaulentionice) , and at the Village of Wonders ( Il Villaggio delle Meraviglie )

Why visit Milan in December

Pros: many events and entertainment options
Cons: large crowds of both tourists and locals

Milan in January

Weather in Milan in January

The minimum temperature in Milan in January is 2°C and the maximum temperature is 7°C. Same as December. Heavy snow is possible.

Events, celebrations, and traditions in Milan in January

Jan 6th – Epiphany: a traditional historical parade starts from the Cathedral to reach the Basilica of S. Eustorgio where the Three Kings offer their gifts to the characters of a living nativity scene.
Chinese New Year: a large Chinese community lives in Milan in Chinatown district and their New Year has become popular among Milanese people who love watching the parade and join the party!

Things to do in Milan in January

Escape the cold inside a museum: the best ones are the Brera Art Gallery, the Cenacolo Vinciano, the Triennale, The Science and Technology Museum, and the Museum of the Twentieth Century.
Enjoy a great view of the snow-capped Alps on a sunny day: you can get to the top floor of the Lombardia Building (Palazzo della Regione) for free on certain dates (Info at Palazzo Lombardia )
When it’s really too cold to go sightseeing, take a tram tour: Milan: 2.5-Hour City Tour by Tram .

Why visit Milan in January

Pros: many events and entertainment options, winter sales, not too many tourists around
Cons: cold weather

Milan in February

Glacier Express in Switzerland in Winter

The minimum temperature in Milan in February is 3°C and the maximum temperature is 10°C. It’s still mid-winter in Milan and spring only comes around late March.

Events, celebrations, and traditions in Milan in February

Feb. 3 rd – St. Blaise’s Day : St. Blaise is the patron of nose and throat but besides his blessings, there’s another thing that locals take on this day: the last slice of panettone which is said to bring health!
Feb. 14th – St. Valentine’s Day: Milan is not particularly romantic, but local restaurants offer special menus on this occasion
Carnival: local Carnival lasts 1 week longer than usual. That’s because S. Ambrose was once in Rome and could not get back to Milan to start the Lenten season, so he asked his fellow citizens to wait for him. Since Carnival shall end the day before the beginning of the Lenten period, they went on with the parties and this tradition still exists!
Milan Fashion Week: models, stylists and celebrities from all over the world gather in Milan for a week full of events and glamour

Things to do in Milan in February

Take advantage of late winter to enjoy a day trip in the Alps and reach Switzerland that’s just a few km away! A scenic way to reach the Alps is taking the Bernina Express: From Milan: Bernina Train & St. Moritz Full–Day Tour.
You cannot leave Milan without having an aperitivo like a local ! Try a themed tour like this one Milan: Aperitivo Tour with Street Food
If your budget does not allow you to tour the luxury boutiques, visit the exhibitions of the Armani Silos, and watch all the iconic outfits of this brand. More info at Armani/Silos – Exhibition Space .

Why visit Milan in February

What to pack for a winter trip to milan.

Scarf, gloves and hat
Comfortable shoes or boots
long trousers/jeans/corduroys
Wool sweaters
Long sleeves t-shirts or shirts
Backpack (and a small bag for the night)

Remember to dress in layers you can take off in heated indoor spaces!

Where to eat and drink in Milan in winte r

Restaurants

Trattoria Testina: taste their yellow risotto and all the other traditional dishes presented with a modern touch (Ristorante Testina )
Osteria Brunello: Milanese veal steak and a glass of red wine in a vintage and authentic location ( Osteria Brunello )

Cafes and Bars

Grezzo Raw Chocolat: a trendy place to taste some raw desserts ( GREZZO RAW CHOCOLATE )
Iter: cocktails inspired by all the Countries of the world ( Iter )
Pica: for a gourmet breakfast cooked by a starred chef ( Massimo Pica )

Why visit Milan in winter

The Holiday Season is really sparkling in Milan thanks to endless decorations, lights and large Christmas trees everywhere!
If you want to enjoy the city without the usual crowds of tourists, choose November and late January to be able to go sightseeing at your own pace
Mountains are so close you can go skiing and snow shoeing whenever you want!
Take advantage of the winter sales to go shopping in the best luxury boutiques
Choose among endless entertainment possibilities and indoor activities to escape the cold
Linger in local restaurants to taste all the local specialties

Planning to Visit Italy in winter? Check out my guides: A complete guide to Italy in winter Venice in winter Rome in winter Florence in winter

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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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15 Best Day Trips from Milan

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

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

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

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

1. Lake Como

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

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

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

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

2. St. Moritz, Switzerland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Franciacorta

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

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

The boutique wineries of Franciacorta really do offer something special.

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

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

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

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

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

6. Cinque Terre

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

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

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

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

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

Pure bliss.

7. Lugano and Bellagio

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

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

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

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

Or keep it to yourself…

8. Lake Maggiore & the Borromean Islands

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

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

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

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

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

9. Lake Garda

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

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

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

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

The port of Desenzano also has a spectacular medieval castle.

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

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

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

Beyond Shakespeare, Verona has other strings to its bow.

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

11. Genova and Portofino

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

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

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

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

12. Interlaken & the Swiss Alps

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

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

13. Maranello Ferrari tour

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

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

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

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

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

14. Florence

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15 Best Day Trips from Milan:

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

Milan in Winter – Weather, Best Things To Do, Top tips & More! (Written By a Local!)

Posted on Last updated: February 2, 2023

Travelling to Milan in winter but not sure what to expect? You’ve come to the right place! I was born and raised in Milan and spent 18 years experiencing winter in Milan, as well as a fair few after I moved out.

I know exactly what winter in Milan is like; what sort of weather you can expect, what holidays are on, the best things to do, how to get around and more. I have put all my local Milanese knowledge in this Milan winter guide.

The weather might not be the most favourable, but that doesn’t mean you should visit Milan in winter.

If you’re ready to brave a few grey skies, you can thoroughly enjoy the gothic architecture of Duomo, or the iconic architecture of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, for cheaper prices and with less crowds.

So without further ado, let’s dive in and discover everything you need to know about visiting Milan in winter!

1.1 November weather in Milan
1.2 Weather in December in Milan
1.3 Weather in January in Milan
1.4 February weather in Milan
2 Milan winter holidays to plan for
3 What to pack for winter in Milan
4.1 See a show at La Scala
4.2 See the Christmas lights and markets!
4.3 Visit the Duomo
4.4 Enjoy a traditional Milanese aperitivo
4.5 See the sights (minus the crowds)
4.6 Visit a museum
4.7 Shop til you drop
4.8 Taste the delicious local cuisine
4.9 Ski in the Alps
5 Is winter a good time to visit Milan?
6 Where to stay in Milan in winter

The Duomo of Milan, Italy, by night with its iconic Christmas tree next to it

Weather in Milan in winter

Spoiler alert: the weather in Milan isn’t exactly great in winter. Travelling to Italy in winter is obviously different from visiting Italy in summer or spring, but that doesn’t say it can’t be great.

Here’s a monthly breakdown of the weather you can expect in Milan in winter.

November weather in Milan

November is when things really start to get colder in Milan. The average temperature is 8.5°C (47°F), so it’s not exactly mild.

It’s quite a wet month, too, with around 12 days on average receiving rainfall throughout the month.

There are 9.5 hours of daylight hours, with only two to three hours of sunshine – that’s because of all the cloud cover. Bring an umbrella.

Sunset over Milan from the rooftop of the Duomo, Italy

Weather in December in Milan

Things get even colder towards the end of the year, when average lows start hitting 1°C (34°F), with average highs only teetering towards 7°C (45°F).

Rainfall is slightly less than in November but only slightly. There’s still only around three hours of sunshine per day on average.

On the other hand, it’s a quiet time of year (until Christmas), so if you wrap up warm and bring waterproofs, you should have no trouble enjoying the city and what it has to offer.

Weather in January in Milan

The year starts on the chilly side in Milan. Temperatures drop as low as -1°C (30°F), with average highs only reaching 7°C (45°F). The month starts off cloudy, but towards the end of the month things get a bit sunnier.

But still: there’s a lot of cloud cover and short daylight hours. If you want to visit Milan in January, you should be prepared for cold weather.

Christmas in Milan, Italy

February weather in Milan

Spring starts to appear in February, but only towards the end of the month. Average temperatures sit around 6°C (43°F), but can still dip as low as 1°C (34°F).

Sunshine hours are on the increase, with an average of five hours of sunshine expected per day. Rainfall, too, only affects six days out of the month.

If you want to plan a day trip to the beautiful beaches near Milan , you’ll have to wait a few more months!

Discovering Eataly in Milan, Italy

Milan winter holidays to plan for

Christmas is the obvious holiday that you might want to plan for on a trip to Milan. This time of year in the city is full of festive fun, with a huge tree in the Piazza Duomo and beautiful lights strung around the city.

If you want to visit this time of year, make sure to book in advance as it can get busy. But Milan has its own way to usher in the Christmas season.

It all kicks off with the Sant’Ambrogio (Feast of St. Ambrose) on 7th December. Sant’Ambrogio is the saint patron of the city, so understandably the Milanese take it as a day off.

Traditionally it’s also the day that Milanese people hang up their Christmas decorations.

Depending on what day the 7th of December falls, Milanese people usually take a few days off before and after this feast day, so some independent shops and eateries may be closed around this time.

Piazza del Duomo in Milan at Christmas, with Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and Milan Cathedral behind it

What to pack for winter in Milan

Besides the usual travel essentials and things you should always pack for an Italy trip , there aren’t many specific items to pack for winter in Milan.

It’s a good idea to bring plenty of layers. That way you can stay warm when you’re outside, but strip off a layer or two when you head indoors where there’s heating.

Considering the rain you’re very likely to encounter in Milan, bringing along a raincoat and an umbrella is a must.

A good pair of shoes , ideally with some level of waterproofing, will help for when you’re strolling around sightseeing or shopping.

Besides clothing, some useful accessories you can pack are a refillable water bottle to refill at the water fountains dotted around the city. Not only does this save money, but it saves on plastic too.

I always suggest also bringing a power bank , so that you can ensure your phone is always charged and ready to go, both to map your way around the city and snap gorgeous photos of it!

Exploring the rooftop of the Duomo cathedral in Milan, Italy

Best things to do in Milan in winter

See a show at la scala.

La Scala is Milan’s premier opera house.

Opening its doors in 1778, this famed venue for opera, ballet and classical music has long been a fixture of the city; many greats have performed there, and many have written about it or depicted it in art.

Frankenstein author Mary Shelley wrote about it in 1840.

It’s a must for any music fan. Simply check the official website for the schedule and book something that sounds good to you.

It’s the ideal way to spend a cold evening in Milan; imagine yourself bundled up against the winter chill as you exit the Scala, ready to find somewhere to eat or drink after an unforgettable performance.

Teatro alla Scala, the most famous theatre in Milan

See the Christmas lights and markets!

If you’re visiting Milan at Christmas – well, anytime after 7th December – you’ll have a very festive city to explore.

In terms of decorations, there’s a beautiful Christmas tree in Piazza Duomo, as well as a particularly ornate tree at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, amongst others.

Christmas markets are excellent in Milan. The most famous one of these is in Piazza Duomo (the main square in town), but there are others to explore, too.

The huge Christmas tree of Piazza del Duomo with Milan Cathedral behind it

Piazza Gae Aulenti, for example, is another great place to pick up unique Christmas gifts (think handcrafted wooden toys among other things) and delicious street food. Other such markets dot the city this time of year.

Another particularly famed market is Fiera Obei Obei. This is a traditional Milanese affair held across the Sant’Ambrogio weekend, and takes place next to Castello Sforzesco.

They might not be quite as grand as some of the German Christmas Markets, or others that you can find around Europe in winter , but the markets and decorations in Milan in December are still worth seeing.

You can also visit Rome in winter if you want to see beautiful Christmas decorations, while also taking in the fun Italian festive atmosphere.

The Christmas tree and lights in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Milan

Visit the Duomo

Visiting the Duomo Cathedral should be on your Milan itinerary (as well as Italy bucket list !) regardless of the season, but especially so in winter.

Piazza Duomo isn’t just home to Christmas trees and markets; it’s also home to the Duomo itself, aka Milan Cathedral. Milan’s cathedral is the second largest in Europe and the third-largest in the world.

It also took a very long time to build: starting in 1386, the final touches were finished in 1965. That’s six centuries of construction!

Click here to skip the queues and book your Milan Cathedral & Rooftop Ticket!

Or click below to see prices & availability for your chosen date!

Piazza del Duomo in Milan, Italy

It’s an ornate, imposing structure on the outside and doesn’t lack any wow factor on the inside, either.

As well as lapping up the sprawling Gothic glory of the Duomo’s soaring columns, check out its stained glass windows and the sea of geometric floor tiles.

For epic views across the Milan skyline, you can even head up onto the rooftop for a fee. Note that if it has snowed or rained recently, rooftop access may not be allowed due to ice.

Not interested in the inside of the Duomo? Book only the Milan Cathedral rooftop access!

Or click below to see prices & availability!

Enjoy a traditional Milanese aperitivo

Milanese people are used to the weather, so the cold, rainy evenings that characterise the city in winter don’t stop them from having a good time.

You’ll still see locals out having a good time enjoying an aperitivo – or apericena as they call it here.

Thankfully, most places have indoor seating. If they also have outdoor seating, it will most often come with heaters in winter. To find the most buzzing, atmospheric aperitivo spots, head to districts such as Arco della Pace or Brera.

The latter is a warren of cobblestone lanes with dozens of bars and eateries (for some retro charm, try N’Ombra de Vin). Elsewhere, the canal district of Navigli may be very cold in winter, but that doesn’t stop Milanese people.

This trendy district is awash with cool bars and chic eateries that make for a perfect aperitivo spot. Cosy up with the locals and enjoy.

Wandering along the canals of Navigli in Milano, Italy, by night

See the sights (minus the crowds)

That’s right. Except for the Sant’Ambrogio weekend, and the Christmas period (which is when Milanese people whip themselves up into a frenzy of Christmas shopping), Milan is relatively free of crowds in winter.

And that means you’ll get to see its top sights without having hordes of tourists to deal with. As well as the Duomo I mentioned earlier, one of the other top spots in Milan is the Castello Sforzesco .

Built between 1360 and 1499, this mediaeval fortress was once home to the noble Sforza family and is one of the most famous landmarks in the city. Still imposing to this day, it’s a must-visit on any Italy itinerary .

Arco della Pace in Milano, Italy

Another important landmark is the Arco della Pace – a 19th-century triumphal arch that is situated on the site of the former ancient Roman walls of the city.

For something more commercial but also impossibly elegant, you should make a beeline to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. The oldest shopping mall in the country, it’s well known for its stylish decor.

Built between 1865 and 1867, this four-storey glass-domed shopping arcade is the place to come for shopping, eating and generally just lapping up the opulence.

Click here to book a Milano city tour by bike!

Castello Sforzesco in Milan, Italy

Visit a museum

There are many museums in Milan. And when the temperature really drops, these places are great spots to warm up and get a good dose of culture.

If you plan on visiting all the most famous museums of the city, you’ll have to spend at least two days in Milan , if not more! One of the most famous museums is La Triennale, a design and art museum in Parco Sempione.

To learn about one of Italy’s greats, go to the Leonardo Da Vinci Museum . Or to see his The Last Supper , head to the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. For more art, head to Brera Art Gallery. The list goes on!

The queue for seeing The Last Supper can get huge, especially during holiday periods, so make sure to purchase your queue jump ticket online beforehand!

Click here to book your Last Supper skip-the-line entrance & guided tour!

Shop til you drop

Milan is an international fashion capital, so it’s no wonder that the city boasts a whole lot of shopping streets for those who love to shop.

The main areas to hit up are Corso Buenos Aires, featuring over 350 shops; Via Torino which connects Piazza Duomo with Navigli; and Via Monte Napoleone, a decidedly upscale shopping area with high-end brand outlets.

Corso Buenos Aires, one of the main shopping streets in Milan, Italy

Taste the delicious local cuisine

Milanese food is perfect for winter. The rich risotto Milanese is a hearty option to warm you up on a cold day.

There’s also Cotoletta alla Milanese – breaded and fried veal (or sirloin) cutlets sure to tempt you into more than one sampling.

And if you’re here for Christmas, you must try panettone. This Christmas cake is ubiquitous around Italy, but the sweet treat is originally from Milan.

The awesome pizza of Spontini

Ski in the Alps

Had enough of the city? Well, if you like skiing, it’s easy to escape for a day on the slopes.

It’s a short drive to the Trentino and the mountains, where you will find some of the best ski resorts in Italy , as well as stunning Alpine lakes !

If you’re staying long enough (i.e. more than a week), then getting out to the Alps is a must – especially if you’re already a keen skier. Just remember to purchase an Italy travel insurance with extreme sports extra!

It can be a great way to combine more than one type of experience in your Italy itinerary !

Skiing at the top of Ghiacciaio Presena close to Passo del Tonale

Is winter a good time to visit Milan?

Absolutely. If you don’t mind bad weather, by which I mean cold and rainy, then it’s great! It’s a city after all, and has plenty to see, do, eat and buy come rain or shine.

The bonus? It’s cheaper and there are far fewer tourists. All you’ll need is warm clothing, a nice coat and always carry an umbrella.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele seen from across Piazza del Duomo in Milan, Italy

Where to stay in Milan in winter

There are lots of great places to stay in Milan , regardless of the season.

Maybe in winter you’ll want to stay somewhere more central, to reduce the amount of time spent outside travelling to places in the city, or maybe somewhere with a view, so you can snuggle up on the couch and still admire the beautiful sights of Milan.

Whatever your preference, I have listed below a few places to stay in Milan for every budget.

Budget: Ostello Bello – There are two hostels of this chain around Milan and both are good budget options, with a lively atmosphere, spacious dorms and convenient central locations, perfect for exploring Milan by night !

Click here to book your stay at Ostello Bello in Milano!

Mid-range: Ibis Milano Centro – Part of the Ibis chain, this is a good mid-range hotel, with a guaranteed standard of room set up and a great central location.

Check out prices and availability for Ibis Milano Centro here!

Luxury: Galleria Vik Milano – If your Italy trip budget allows for it, this is a great place to splurge a bit. Located in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, it couldn’t get any more central than this, with stunning views over the galleria just outside your window.

Don’t miss out, book your stay at Galleria Vik Milano here!

Admiring the perfect symmetry of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in Milan, Italy

Final thoughts on visiting Milan in winter

There you have it, a local’s guide to travelling to Milan in winter! Have you been to Milan before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

Growing up I wasn’t a fan of Milanese winter, but in hindsight I can see that it’s actually a pretty good time to visit the city. Milan isn’t as famous as Rome , Cinque Terre , Venice or Florence , but it’s still worth a visit.

As long as you’re ready for the bad weather, you’ll still be able to make the most of this beautiful city, with the added bonus of cheaper prices and less crowds!

Milan in winter is still a gorgeous city, which offers plenty of choice. I hope you will find this guide useful in planning your perfect winter trip to Milan! If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!

Enjoyed reading my Milan winter travel guide? Pin it!

Photo collage of the Duomo of Milan, the view from the rooftop of Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and text overlay saying

15 Best Day Trips from Milan Italy

Milan is one of the most fascinating cities in Italy. Moreover, Milan is surrounded with beautiful destinations that are perfect for a day trip! There are plenty of lakes, mountains and stunning towns and cities to visit, so if you’re planning to discover the North of Italy, you should definitely start with a trip to Milan . Then, you can plan Lake Como day trips from Milan, day trips from Milan to Bellagio trips from Milan to Cinque Terre, or day trips from Milan to Verona and Lake Garda. We will be going through some great tips for 1 day trips from Milan, as well as ideas for different parts of the year, like day trips from Milan in December, summertime, and more! Let’s see the 15 best day trips from Milan Italy !

15 day trips from Milan… As I have mentioned, there are many amazing locations for 1 day trips from Milan. Imagine if you’d want to do them all, you’d need at least 15 days, and these are just the important highlights! Let’s discover together the Lake Como day trip from Milan, the best day trips from Milan in November , or day trips from Milan in January.

We’ll also share details for the day trip to Portofino from Milan, as well as for the day trip from Milan to Lake Como and Lugano among many others! We know many of you ask whether or not can you do a day trip to Venice from Milan? So within this post, we’ll also discuss the day trip from Milan to Venice by train. Also, if you’re planning to stay a few nights in Milan , make sure you check out our affordable hotel list , and the luxury hotels too!

1. Day trip from Milan to Lake Como and Bellagio

Lake Como is one of the most beautiful day trip from Milan! If you’re planning to see some stunning lakeside towns, but you don’t want to travel too much, then Lake Como is the closest you can pick! You can easily plan Lake Como day trip from Milan by train as well!

From Milano Centrale to Como the train ride takes about an hour, and it’s really cheap as well. So if you want to do a one day trip to Lake Como from Milan, or a day trip from Milan to Bellagio you’ll still have enough time to explore or to relax at the lake. If you’d prefer to stay a few days, make sure to check out our list of beautiful hotels at Lake Como !

2. Lago Maggiore

Lake Maggiore, or Lago Maggiore is not as famous as Lake Como or Lake Garda, though it is right near them. It’s one of the biggest lakes in Italy , and indeed Lake Maggiore has amazing landscapes to get lost in and fall in love with. You can plan a boat day, or some hiking in the area if you want to do 1 day trips from Milan .

Instead of a Lake Como day trip from Milan if you choose Lake Maggiore, make sure to visit the stunning Isola Bella and the breathtaking villa and gardens there. It’s one of a kind experience, and we really do suggest not missing it!

3. Lake Iseo

Lake Iseo isn’t that popular among visitors from abroad still, but for those who seek a quiet place, a stunning lake with amazing scenery over the surrounding mountains, it’s still the greatest option! If you’re looking for a one-day trip to Lake Como from Milan, but you’d actually prefer something more peaceful, Lake Iseo is the greatest alternative!

For those seeking ideas for day trips from Milan, I must say, the experience, the view, the peace, and the whole area are really worth visiting. Lake Iseo is one of the best-hidden gems, and one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy!

4. Lake Garda

One of my favorite day trips from Milan is definitely Lake Garda ! I’ve done so far 4 times day trips or two-day trips to Lake Garda. Two times I went to one of the most magical towns at Lake Garda , to Sirmione . The two other times were at Peschiera del Garda and Riva del Garda.

Sirmione is a great place to visit in the summer. You’ve got the lake, the beaches , the boats, the stunning town, along with the castle. However, Sirmione is also one of the best day trips from Milan in November, or a day trip from Milan in December , since there is a spa that’s perfect for cold getaways! If you’re planning day trips from Milan to Verona and Lake Garda, make sure to calculate one day at the lake and one day in Verona, since that city can’t be visited in a few hours.

For a day trip from Milan to Lake Garda, I really suggest that to add to your list Desenzano, Sirmione, and Peschiera. Or at least one of them! The area of the lake is just stunning, just like the lake itself!

5. Portofino

Portofino is like mini heaven. Is one of the most stunning coastal towns in Italy , and it is indeed the most beautiful spot in Liguria! The lands where Portofino was built offer indescribable sceneries on the sea, with these beautiful and colorful towns just above.

The clear water and amazing views are already a great reason to visit Portofino, but the whole town is just magical. However, you must know that it’s not the cheapest 1 day trips from Milan, and everything has skyscraper prices. But a day trip to Portofino from Milan is definitely an amazing option and it’s a perfect choice for summertime!

6. Trentino

Hands up who loves skiing! Trentino is the heaven of ski resorts in Italy ! Stunning mountain scenarios, and beautiful mountain villages and towns. If you’re visiting the Trentino region , but you’re not doing it for sports, we’ve got you covered! If you’re planning 1 day trips from Milan, and more important day trips from Milan in December, or day trips from Milan in January, and you’re up for skiing, Trentino is the place for you!

However, if you’re looking for day trips from Milan during the warm month, you should still consider Trentino. You can visit the fabulous town of Bolzano or the one that we love, even more, Trento . In Trento, you can plan a quick visit to the stunning Buonconsiglio Castle as well, and eat as much as you can while enjoying the view over the giant hills right outside the town.

7. Limone sul Garda

Limone sul Garda makes you feel like you’re on the seaside. The town near Lake Garda does really have this warm, coastal town vibe, and that’s why we love it. It’s a beautiful place to explore, eat, and cycle near the lake.

If you’re thinking of alternatives for the Lake Como day trip from Milan, definitely consider Limone sul Garda! You can do boating, water sports, relax on the beach, or do hiking. It’s a great spot for nights out as well, so for those traveling with friends might be a great option!

10 best medieval cities in Italy - Italy Best

I already mentioned at Lake Garda, that if you’re planning day trips from Milan to Verona and Lake Garda, plan one day at each. Verona is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy , and I can’t get enough of it, no matter how many times I return. The stunning medieval town of Verona is definitely one of the best day trips from Milan!

In the summer, Verona can be really hot and humid, which for many isn’t really comfortable. In the winter, though it’s not warm outside, Verona still remains stunning. So if you’re looking for the best day trips from Milan in November, December, or day trips from Milan in January, or February, Verona can still be a good option!

9. Cinque Terre

When it comes to 1 day trips from Milan, Cinque Terre is always a star! You can do easy day trips from Milan to Cinque Terre. It’s a long train ride getting from Milan to Cinque Terre, but if you wake up early enough, or better yet, if you do two days in Cinque Terre, you can see it all!

When you’re planning trips from Milan to Cinque Terre you must know that the towns of Cinque Terre are really close to each other. You can get around in Cinque Terre by train, where the travel time between the towns is an average of 5 minutes.

Knowing this, you can plan trips from Milan to Cinque Terre either for one day and rush through as much as you can, then return in the evening. However, I do suggest thinking about at least 2 day trips from Milan to Cinque Terre to make sure you’re able to see it all without the rush.

10. day trip from Milan to Venice by train

Can you do a day trip to Venice from Milan? Yes, you can! Direct trains from Milano Centrale do about 3 and a half hours to Venice. So the same as I’ve said for the trips from Milan to Cinque Terre, I must say the same for Venice. If you’re planning a day trip from Milan to Venice by train, you must either wake up really early, either plan 2 days in Venice!

Venice is big, and there are so many things to explore! If you want really to do just a 1 day trip from Milan to Venice by train, you must plan ahead what you want to see, and how to get there. Otherwise, you’ll waste the day and you won’t get anywhere. To see the most important landmarks in Venice , you can easily do a day trip from Milan to Venice and return at the night.

11. Genoa – day trips from Milan

Genoa is probably the most famous coastal cities in northern Italy. If you plan 1 day trips from Milan, and you’d like to see the seaside and a lovely city, then Genoa is definitely a great option!

Especially during the summertime, Genoa is a great destination in Liguria, also if you’re up for some amazing nightlife . Not to mention the great food, and beautiful landmarks and museums .

Chocolate , famous Italian brands, and a fast-developing city at the feet of the mountains? That’s all Torino (Turin). Explore the beautiful city center, great landmarks, and stunning buildings of Turin, while visiting the Egyptian museum as well. If you want to do city day trips from Milan, especially if you’re looking for the best day trips from Milan in November or day trips from Milan in December, Turin can work well.

You can explore the city easily even if you’re looking for day trips from Milan in January. It might be a bit cold, but some chocolate and wine will keep you warm enough while you explore all the amazing things Turin has to offer. Don’t forget though, if you’ve got more days, you could visit the nearby mountains too!

13. Piacenza

Piacenza is located in the region of Emilia Romagna, about 55 minutes by train from Milano Centrale train station. If you’re looking for the best day trips from Milan in November or day trips from Milan in December, Piacenza might not be the best fit. However, in the spring and summertime, it’s definitely a great option for 1 day trips from Milan.

The historic center of Piacenza is just stunning, with many beautiful buildings, churches, and stunning streets. If you’re visiting this lovely town in Emilia Romagna , make sure to try some local specialties like the cold cuts like salumi, pancetta, and the coppa from Piacenza. Imagine this place to be really isolated, peaceful, and still beautiful where you can eat well!

Since we’ve mentioned the cold cuts from Emilia Romagna, and the great food of the region , we must highlight another idea for day trips from Milan. Parma is right the second city in Emilia Romagna after Piacenza. This city is really famous for the Parmigiano Reggiano ( parmesan cheese ) and the Prosciutto di Parma, which is the most famous type of ham in Italy.

Parma can be one of the best day trips from Milan in November or day trips from Milan in January, but just if you’re looking for a foodie tour. Outside being cold, you can’t really enjoy the outdoor tables, sunshine, and life in the city. However, Parma has many beautiful landmarks to see, and a factory visit at Parmigiano Reggiano or the ham factory is definitely an amazing option for a day trip from Milan!

15. Bergamo

Bergamo is right outside Milan, and you can reach it either by train or bus. One of Milan’s airports , the Bergamo airport is near the town too, so if you’re planning 1 day trips to Milan and you’re flying out from Bergamo, you can plan to spend your last day in Bergamo.

The historic center of Bergamo is on top of a hill, and the town itself is just fascinating. The main square, old houses, and charming streets will make you fall in love with Bergamo! Also, if you’re thinking about the best day trips from Milan in November, or over the winter months, Bergamo could work well, though consider that the temperature is pretty low.

Wrapping up the 10 Best 1 day trips from Milan Italy

As you can see, there are dozens and more possibilities for a day trip from Milan. We’ve discussed some of the most popular options, like the Lake Como day trip from Milan, or day trip from Milan to Bellagio. Also, you’ve seen how you can do a day trip to Portofino from Milan, and a day trip from Milan to Venice by train.

We’ve also checked the temperature, and seen some of the best summer destinations as well as day trips from Milan in December, and day trips from Milan in January. You’ve got some ideas now for day trips from Milan to Verona and Lake Garda, and a day trip from Milan to Lake Como and Lugano.

We’ve also answered the question on can you do a day trip to Venice from Milan, and shared a few tips to know. Milan is gorgeous, and the whole of northern Italy deserves to be seen! So how about discovering the best medieval cities in Italy next?

Pin it: 10 Best day trips from Milan Italy

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Milan Mastered: An Insider’s Guide to Italy’s Capital of Cool

With captivating contrasts of vintage grandeur and gritty glamour, Milan has a way of seducing visitors in every season.

Milan may be Italy's economic engine, but this city runs on an intoxicating fuel of spritz, style and sheer creativity . The undisputed capital of cool seamlessly blends centuries of heritage with a cutting-edge verve that makes it utterly inimitable. With captivating contrasts of vintage grandeur and gritty glamour, Milan has a way of seducing visitors in every season.

But come spring, when the entire town is engulfed in Salone del Mobile 's creative crescendo, Milan reaches rapturous new heights. The world's premier furniture fair transforms the city into an unparalleled design mecca; this year it takes place from April 16 to April 21. The main event takes over the sprawling Rho Fiera fairgrounds, while Fuorisalone turns Milan into a citywide gallery with brands, studios and more installing mind-bending displays in unexpected spaces. Recent years have seen visionary collaborations with talents like Formafantasma, Hélène Binet and even David Lynch .

For the ever forward-thinking Milan—a place of big ideas, major investment and rapid innovation busily sprouting new subway lines, cutting-edge hotels and infrastructure for the 2026 Winter Olympics—hosting Salone is simply second nature. After all, creative devotion courses through this city's veins year-round. The home of Prada, Campari and da Vinci’s The Last Supper knows a thing or two about splashy reinvention. And let's not forget about Milan Fashion Week, every February and September.

Once one of Italy's most underrated gems, Milan now draws visitors from all over Europe and around the world with its globally renowned fashion pedigree and artistic quarters brimming with bohemian bravura. Whether your religion is retail worship or the hallowed rites of aperitivo hour, this once-overlooked city has truly blossomed into La Capitale del Cool. Forget skipping Milan—you'll want to go the distance to soak up every last spritz of its stylish spirit.

An Insider's Luxury Travel Guide to Milan

Portrait milano, bulgari hotel milano, vico milano, casa cipriani milano, museo cenacolo vinciano (the last supper museum), milan's canals, brera district, fondazione prada, 10 corso como, pettinaroli, nilufar depot, signor lievito, langosteria cucina, terrazza aperol, camparino in galleria, where to stay.

Corso Venezia, 11, 20121 Milan, Italy

Move over, corporate Milan—this baroque bombshell is the the Italian fashion capital's newest hit. Portrait Milano struts its stuff in the heart of the Quadrilatero della Moda (Fashion District), having traded its former convent life for a glamorous reinvention. Beyond the courtyard-turned-public-piazza awaits utter indulgence—from the brand-spankin’ new Longevity Spa with its stunning vaulted swimming pool to fashion boutiques and wine-paired bliss at the restaurant. But the real showstoppers? The sumptuous suites dripping in velvet, walnut and custom leather details.

Via Privata Fratelli Gabba, 7B, 20121 Milan, Italy

The Bulgari, which already boasts a luxury hotel in Rome, seduces Milan's most stylish set with lush garden revelry and impeccable Italian hospitality. Sip spritzy aperitivi under shady horse chestnuts before retreating to rooms adorned in sleek marble, bronze and rich woods. The spa's gilded mosaic pool practically demands a dip, while the restaurant wows with chef Niko Romito's classic fare. Whether lounging al fresco or cocooned in Bulgari's polished environs, you'll feel utterly invigorated—and utterly glamorous—at this oasis of la dolce vita.

Corso Genova, 11, 20123 Milan, Italy

Looking for the hottest under-the-radar address in Milan? Then keep Vico Milano's fashionable digs to yourself. This seven-room jewel box, dreamed up by boutique hotel savant Neri Baccheschi Berti , seamlessly fuses global influences into an eclectic, art-filled haven. Every detail delights, from the Moroccan-tiled bathrooms and antique Greek marble to the rotating gallery installations. Cuddle up in the library or sip craft cocktails at the spiffy local artisan bar—just don't reveal this hidden gem's whereabouts. It's our little secret.

Via Palestro, 24, 20121 Milan, Italy

Consider this your VIP pass to elegant Italian living, Cipriani-style. The hospitality heavyweights have created Milan's premier members-only urban palazzo, oozing cultivated luxe at every turn. The vibe marries serene pied-à-terre and grand residenza in just 15 sumptuous Michele Bonan -designed rooms that scream yacht club chic. Linger over bellinis and cicchetti at the polished wood-paneled bar before heading to the pampering spa. Don’t forget to pack a jacket for dinner, where you'll truly feel like Milanese aristocracy.

What to Do:

Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2, 20123 Milan, Italy (inside the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie)

Step into the holy grail of Renaissance art—the refectory housing Leonardo da Vinci 's legendary Last Supper. This jaw-dropping 15th-century mural captures Jesus' dramatic betrayal revelation with innovative mastery. But don't linger too long; visits are capped at 15 minutes to preserve the delicate fresco. Book well in advance to secure your audience with this iconic masterpiece.

Once Milan's vital arteries for trade, today, these tamed 12th-century waterways (navigli) offer a delightful detour from the city's hustle. Meander along the Naviglio Grande and Pavese, the last remnants, and embrace the lively al fresco culture of cafes, restaurants and shops lining the banks. Come summertime, the whole district thrums with aperitivo fever.

Eclectic Brera oozes an irresistible bohemian vibe. This artistic enclave seduces with cobblestone charm, antique haunts, too-cool-for-school boutiques and galleries galore. Don't miss the works of art at the masterpiece-laden Pinacoteca di Brera (Brera Art Gallery) and the lush Botanical Garden hideaway. Fuel up at trattorias or buzzy bars—Brera's creative spirit is utterly contagious.

Largo Isarco, 2, 20139 Milan, Italy

Forget traditional art museums—Fondazione Prada rewrites the rules. This former gin distillery now houses mind-bending contemporary art exhibitions curated by style maven Miuccia Prada herself. The avant-garde complex masterfully blends renovated buildings with starchitect Rem Koolhaas ' bold new additions, like the striking gold-tiled "Haunted House." Embracing the unconventional is a given here.

Where to Shop:

Corso Como, 10, 20154 Milan, Italy

Where art, fashion, food and life itself converge into one dazzling mosaic—that's the manifesto of 10 Corso Como. Founder Carla Sozzani's living gallery/restaurant/boutique hotel blends cultural curiosities into a tantalizing immersive experience. Wander from covetable Italian designs to photography exhibits, then linger over aperitivo on the verdant courtyard patio. It's Milan's most marvelous micro-cosmos.

Corso Magenta, 10, 20123 Milan, Italy

Hidden between Milanese historic buildings, Raw&Co is an ever-evolving concept store that resembles an eclectic apartment spread across multiple floors. Each room tells a different story through a thoughtfully curated melange of vintage, modern and handcrafted pieces from around the globe. With decor inspirations rotating seasonally, every visit to this house of treasures is more compelling than the last.

Via Brera, 4, 20121 Milan, Italy

Step into Pettinaroli and be transported to a bygone era of Italian artisanship. This 1881 stationery-turned-printing house has mastered exquisite craftsmanship for over a century. Whether it's leather-bound albums, letterpress wedding invites or antique maps adorning the shelves, every piece exudes timeless elegance. Pettinaroli redefines what it means to put pen to paper.

Viale Vincenzo Lancetti, 34, 20158 Milan, Italy

For interiors aficionados, Nilufar Depot is the ultimate objet d'art playground. Nina Yashar 's legendary design warehouse takes "more is more" to sublime heights. This three-story stunner channels La Scala's dramatic ambiance with vintage Italian furnishings dramatically staged across balconied walkways. Even window shopping feels like wandering through a curated design museum.

Where to Eat:

Via Panfilo Castaldi, 26, 20124 Milan, Italy

Bread is the star at Signor Lievito, where model-turned-baker Natalia Nikitina works magic with a 120-year-old mother yeast. Before it even opened, carb connoisseurs were buzzing about the boulangerie's obscenely flavorful baguettes, bulkas and Apulian focaccias. Who knew bread could be this seductive?

Via Savona, 10, 20144 Milan, Italy

Like being invited to an intimate dinner party at a well-traveled friend's home—that's the vibe at Langosteria Cucina. Designed by Dimorestudio, the cozy 40-seater eschews industrial kitchens for a plush, lived-in aesthetic blending ‘70s moodiness with Japanese restraint. Tuck into the day's freshest catch or try classic risotto while surrounded by collected treasures from the owners' global jaunts. Don't forget to end with an order of gelato.

Largo Isarco, 2, 20139 Milan, Italy (inside Fondazione Prada)

Step through Wes Anderson 's whimsical time portal recreating 1950s and ’60s Milan at this ode to mid-century Italian cinema. Retro formica chairs, jukeboxes, pinball machines and terrazzo floors channel classic films like Rocco and His Brothers . The wallpaper's Galleria Vittorio Emanuele flourishes make you feel you've shrunk down to miniature—in the most delightfully Anderson-esque way.

Via Evangelista Torricelli, 15, 20136 Milan, Italy

Milan's neo-trattoria trend finds a standout in canal-side charmer Nebbia. The seasonal menu spotlights elevated Lombardian comfort fare like duck liver brioche and octopus with pork cheek, best washed down with a natural wine from the tightly curated list. With its rich flavors, forward-thinking twists and unfussy vibe, it embodies the future of Italian dining.

Where to Drink:

Piazza del Duomo, 20121 Milan, Italy

When Milan sheds its winter coat, it's time to party al fresco at the one and only Terrazza Aperol. This piazza-side aperitivo hotspot is the ultimate ostentatious orange homage to Italy's beloved pre-dinner tipple. Designer Antonio Piciulo captured the cocktail's effervescent essence with vibrant hues and an unbeatable duomo-facing terrace. Sunset spritzes pair perfectly with crunchy chips and mouthwatering cicchetti for the ultimate afternoon affair.

Via Plinio, 39, 20129 Milan, Italy

Behind gilded doors, Maurizio Stocchetto’s Bar Basso's is like being transported back in time. This dimly-lit, mirror-lined cicchetteria is a bonafide mid-century nightlife time capsule where aperitivo culture was born—quite literally, as the Negroni Sbagliato was invented here by happy accident. Sip the frothy original from a vintage Venetian goblet alongside a cross-section of old-school Milanese; from fashionistas to neighborhood regulars, all roads lead to this hallowed haunt.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, 20121 Milan, Italy

They don't come much more quintessentially Milanese than this 1915 Galleria bar, the birthplace of the iconic Campari. With its original mosaics, frescoes and soaring ceilings, Camparino epitomizes Italian aperitivo grandeur. It's the perfect elegant pit stop for locals and culture vultures fresh from the Teatro alla Scala opera house or an exhibition at the Palazzo.

Via Lecco, 11, 20124 Milan, Italy

Old-world wine bar meets new European chic at Bar Nico, already crowned one of Milan's trendiest indirizzi. The Studio Sagoma-designed interiors subtly nod to the site's history as a tire shop and pasta factory, while championing their rigorously pared-back, environmentally-conscious aesthetic. Sink into sculptural seating savoring the thoughtfully curated natural wine list amidst an atmosphere that could be plucked from Paris, Madrid, New York or London—yet unmistakably maintains its Milanese soul.

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I’m reaching on 24th 8pm to Milan , and departing from Milan on the 31st at 10 pm

I want to stay in Milan and take day trips to lake como and Venice

I also want to spend some days in Florence and stay the night in Milan

How can I manage to do it ?

6 replies to this topic

What month?

If you have 7 nights consider:

—Train to Florence - 1/2 day

—Florence 3.5 days/4 nights (day trip Venice **, day trip Siena , 1.5 days Florence)

—Train to Milan -1/2 day

—Milan 1.5 days/2 nights (day trip Lake Como , 1/2 day Milan)

—Depart Milan

Pace is 1-4-2.

** Venice is not day trip material but I included it so you had an option….OR consider….head to Venice after first night in Milan. Stay in Venice 3.5 days/4 nights with day trip to Florence. Head back to Milan for 1.5 days/2 nights. You can’t see everything in such limited time. Encourage you to prioritize and create a manageable and enjoyable trip.

I agree #3...

Venice is not a city for those in a hurry...you have to move on foot and wait patiently for your turn even to get on the vaporetto...the vaporettos are slow to avoid the wave motion...for most famous attractions you have to do minimal queue...same thing to eat or go to the toilets...

https://www.yesmilano.it/en/see-and-do/itineraries

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Beyoncé suits up in Western style for second W Magazine cover

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She’s back for act two.

One week after W Magazine dropped a rodeo-themed photoshoot featuring Beyoncé, the publication decided to release a second cover showcasing the artist in yet another stunning look.

For the two new shots , the “Texas Hold ‘Em” singer can be seen wearing a Western-inspired custom Louis Vuitton outfit, which includes a beige blazer, coordinating flared trousers and matching hat, all embellished with brown leather details.

Bey, 42, opted to skip layering a shirt underneath, showing a bit of cleavage as she stared at the camera.

She accessorized with sunglasses, a pair of pointed-toe Schiaparelli boots and Dries Criel earrings and rings, with the turquoise buttons on her suit jacket adding a pop of color.

The superstar wore her platinum blond hair sleek and straight past her shoulders.

Still, while Beyoncé outfit was no doubt stunning, she was slightly upstaged by her cute costar: a brown and white horse, who stood by her side in both photos.

For more Page Six Style …

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The previously released photos from the fashion glossy included, of course, lots of other cowboy hats as well as an enormous fur Alexander McQueen jacket, sheer black lace dress with a topper featuring a silver crown and a pair of high-fashion brown leather chaps.

After releasing her “Cowboy Carter” album last week, Beyoncé is fully in her country era, having worn tons of Western-wear in recent months.

These days, she’s rarely spotted without her signature wide-brim hats, and this past Monday, arrived at the iHeartRadio Music Awards 2024 in a fringed black leather Versace getup.

The Cécred founder has seemed to be enjoying her bold, blond hair as well, rocking the bright shade since the world premiere of her “Renaissance” concert film in November 2023.

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What's open and closed for Easter? See which stores and restaurants are operating today.

By Khristopher J. Brooks

Edited By Anne Marie Lee

Updated on: March 31, 2024 / 12:49 PM EDT / CBS News

Millions of Americans celebrate Easter with family and friends this Sunday, which could require a last-minute run for treats before the egg hunt begins. Luckily, many retailers and restaurants will be open on March 31.

Here's a list of what is and isn't open on Easter .

What places are open on Easter Sunday 2024?

Barnes & Noble
Bass Pro Shops
Bath & Body Works
Capital Grille
Dollar General
Dollar Tree
Family Dollar
Half Price Books
Kirkland's Home
Marshall Grain
Rally House
Tractor Supply Company
Trader Joe's
Whole Foods

Restaurants and fast-food chains open on Easter

Boston Market
Buffalo Wild Wings
Cheesecake Factory
Cracker Barrel
Golden Corral
Longhorn Steakhouse
McDonald's
Olive Garden
Outback Steakhouse
Red Lobster
Ruth's Chris
Texas Roadhouse
Waffle House
Whataburger
White Castle

Places with special hours of operation on Easter Sunday 2024

Some stores or restaurants may special hours of operation, depending on their location — including Burger King, Domino's, Firehouse Subs, Jersey Mike's, Jack in the Box, Panda Express, Panera, Popeyes, Shake Shack and Subway.

Stop & Shop's grocery section will be open but the pharmacy will be closed.
Staples will be open from noon to 5 p.m., local time.

What places are closed on Easter Sunday 2024?

Bloomingdale's
Brookshires
Calloway's Nursery
Container Store
Dick's Sporting Goods
H-E-B Grocery
Hobby Lobby
Hollywood Feed
Honey Baked Ham Company
Macy's
Market Basket
Nordstrom & Nordstrom Rack
Office Depot

Restaurants and fast-food chains closed on Easter

Raising Cane's

Correction: This story has been updated to note that Chik-fil-A is closed on Easter.

Khristopher J. Brooks is a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch. He previously worked as a reporter for the Omaha World-Herald, Newsday and the Florida Times-Union. His reporting primarily focuses on the U.S. housing market, the business of sports and bankruptcy.

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Here are eight of the very best day trips from Milan. Lake Como. 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 ...
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Restaurants and fast-food chains closed on Easter. Chik-fil-A. Chipotle. In-N-Out. Raising Cane's. Correction: This story has been updated to note that Chik-fil-A is closed on Easter. Khristopher ...

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Taking Day Trips From Milan in Winter

Places to Visit Near Milan in Winter (+Map)

Lake Como, Lombardy

Verona, Veneto

LAKE GARDA, LOMBARDY & VENETO

Tirano, Lombardy

Bologna, Emilia-Romagna

Venice, Veneto

Lugano, Switzerland

Florence, Tuscany

Parma, Emilia-Romagna

Turin, Piedmont

Bergamo, Lombardy

Modena, Emilia-Romagna

Genoa, Liguria

Ascona, Switzerland

Crespi D’Adda, Lombardy

Varese, Lombardy

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The 10 best day trips from Milan

Best day trips from Milan

1. Bologna

2. Pavia

3. Camogli

4. Varese

5. Lake Garda

6. Lake Como

7. Turin

8. Cremona

9. Verona

10. Lake Maggiore

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Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands

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Winter in Milan: The Complete Winter Guide to Milan in 2024 (tips by local)

Is Milan worth going to in the winter?

Overview of Milan in Winter

Milan Weather in Winter

Milan in December

January in Milan

Milan in February

What is winter like in Milan?

Top Things to Do in Milan in Winter

Climb up to to Duomo di Milano rooftop rooftop

Roll your heel at the centre of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

See Da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper’

Check Out Christmas Markets

Best Christmas markets in Milan:

Go Shopping in the Quadrilatero d’Oro

Take in Leonardo Da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper’

Visit some local shops in Brera