Day Trips from Milan
Food, fashion and fun nightlife fuse together to make Milan one of the most popular travel destinations in Italy. Mix up any standard sightseeing experience and escape the city buzz on these top day trips from Milan.
Ah, la dolce vita… Plates of pasta, peculiar outfits and picture-perfect streets steal the spotlight in this vibrant city. And while the list of attractions and activities is seemingly endless, venturing beyond the city bounds can sure add a layer of excitement on your travels.
Milan is home to a huge haul of must-see museums, iconic landmarks and historical hot spots. From the Duomo Cathedral to the sprawling shopping streets, Milan promises an exciting stay for all types of travellers.
Living in Barcelona, I’m lucky enough to dip in and out of Italy as often as I like. I’m fanatical when it comes to all things Italian - from the mouth-watering cuisine to the culture-packed museums. This country has my heart, and that’s certainly no secret.
I’ve travelled all around boot-shaped Italy, from the lemon-fringed Amalfi Coast villages to the bustling streets of Naples. I’m grateful for all my travels in this carb-loving country, but if there’s one place I choose to return time and time again, it’s northern-situated Milan.
On my last trip, we took advantage of travelling during the off-season and planned a few day trips from Milan. I got stuck into the planning process and compiled a massive list of options, from Lake Como to Cinque Terre. So, here’s a rundown of the best places to visit from Milan in 1, 2, 3 or even 4 days. Most of these destinations are easily accessible by train, but there’s a handful that require a car.
Any city break in Milan can easily be elevated by a little adventure elsewhere, and I’m more than certain it’ll have you craving more. This city is so close to ancient ruins, personality-packed towns and quaint villages. Like seriously, you’ve got everything from one of the most famous lakes in the world to the country’s foodie capital…
Day Trips from Milan, Italy
Whether you’re interested in cuisine, culture or exploring off-the-radar towns, there are many different day trips to choose from. Italy is well-known for iconic places like Rome and Venice, but the north is nestled with a world of whimsical finds. And better yet, a lot of them are less-frequented by tourists.
Here’s what we cover in this in-depth travel guide:
Bernina Express to Sant Moritz
Portofino
Varese
Camogli
Cinque Terre
Venice
Vicenza
Lugano, Switzerland
Florence
Carthusian Monastery of Pavia
Monza
Bergamo
Como
Lake Maggiore
Aosta Valley
Bologna
Parma
Turin
Genoa
Sirmione
Verona
23. Bernina Express to Sant Moritz
Let’s kick off this list with the most famous train that crosses from Switzerland to Italy. The Bernina Express runs through the scenic alpine landscapes, snow-laced mountains and cave-carved tunnels of Switzerland and northern Italy.
This train journey is the perfect way to do a day trip from Milan to Saint Moritz, especially because you’ll see the top sights in the Alps. Boarding a train in Milan is easy and ideal in any weather, making it a top activity for the winter months.
Famous for the Rhaetian Railway UNESCO World Heritage site, the Bernina Express promises an all-round enchanting experience. The scenic train journey crosses over 196 bridges and 55 tunnels to an array of awe-worthy attractions, like the Morteratsch glacier, the 65-metre-high Landwasser Viaduct, the Alp Grüm and the Brusio Circular Viaduct.
You’ll admire the beauty of Saint Moritz, a Swiss town that’s situated around 1800 metres above sea level. Famous for its ski resorts and winter sports activities, this well-known town is teeming with adventure-packed experiences. And once you’ve arrived, you could either opt for a guided tour or explore on your own.
Crossing the Alps in the Bernina Express will also take you through three lakes Lej Pitschen, Lej Nair and Lago Bianco. If you’re a fan of nature, you won’t want to miss a day trip from Milan to Switzerland.
22. Portofino
Nestled along the crashing coastline, Portofino is pinned for its postcard-worthy scenery. Located in the Liguria region of Italy, this culturally rich town boasts blue waters, colour-splashed streets and delectable cuisine.
This fishing village on the Italian Riviera sits just southeast of Genoa. Portofino is sandwiched between the rolling Ligurian Hills and the glimmering sea, making it a must-see for nature enthusiasts and beach bums alike.
Immerse yourself in the romantic atmosphere as you stroll through the pastel-painted streets to hidden gems and myriad monuments. Watch the fisherman’s boats dance in the sea and lock lips with local vino on the oceanfront.
You can’t go wrong with a romantic day trip from Milan, especially if you choose to visit in spring or autumn. Don’t miss the 16th-century fortress, Castello Brown and the cobblestone square, Piazzaetta, which sits overlooking the harbour.
Ignite the spirit of adventure on a ferry ride to the picturesque abbey of San Fruttuoso. Sitting just 20 minutes away from Portofino, this isolated place is famous for its clear blue water. With a submerged statue of Jesus Christ, San Fruttuoso is notorious for scuba diving.
21. Cremona
Located in the Lombardy region, Cremona is crowned for its violin-making heritage. Musicality aside, the town is hemmed in by a haul of historical and architectural highlights.
This part of Italy is just over an hour south of Milan by train, making it an ideal location for a short day trip. Despite its impressive architecture and vibrant food scene, Cremona is fairly off most tourist’s radars.
Wander around Piazza del Comune and pop into the Cremona Cathedral, known for its Renaissance arcade and 8-sided Baptistery. Peer up at the Torrazzo Bell Tower’s astronomical clock and spot the 2 Hercules figure statues on the 13th-century Loggia dei Militi.
Back in the Middle Ages, musical activities in the Cremona were flourishing and it was around the 12th century that Antonio Stradivari invented his world-famous model of the violin. If you’ve got a passion for stringed instruments and musical activities, Cremona is well worth visiting.
20. Varese
Located north of Milan, Varese is coined as Italy’s “Garden City”. Pinned with a plethora of public parks and gorgeously manicured gardens, the cityscape is dashed with a refreshing dose of greenery.
Coupled with Art Nouveau works and 18th-century villas, Varese oozes countryside appeal. Navigate the city’s cobbled lanes and shop ‘til you drop in the multi-story boutique, Baseblu.
Don’t miss the main attraction in Varese, Monte Sacro, which is also known as the Sacred Mountain. Dotted with 14 chapels situated on a mountain slope called the Via Sacra, the Monte Sacro is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights also include Palazzo Estene, Lake Varese, the Campo dei Fiori Regional Park and Isolino Virginia. Varese is an easy day trip and can be reached in just over one hour from Milano Porta Garibaldi train station.
19. Camogli
If you’re on the hunt for unique day trips from Milan, Camogli is well worth checking out. This seaside town is lapped by lush pine forests and azure blue water.
While nearby Portofino steals the spotlight, you can enjoy fewer crowds and a more local feel in Camogli. Appreciate the trompe l'oeil architecture and relish the flavours of an aperitivo on the waterfront promenade.
This fishing village is located on the Golfo Paradiso in the Riviera di Levante, and it’s well-known among locals. Pop into the Dragone Castle, visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta and soak up the summertime sun on the beach.
18. Cinque Terre
Located around 3 hours from Milan by train, Cinque Terre is undoubtedly one of the most famous tourist destinations in Italy.
Cinque Terre is made up of a group of five unique Italian villages in the Liguria region - Riomaggiore, Monarola, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Monarola.
This iconic spot is carved with colourful houses that are seemingly stacked on top of each other.
Illustrated by centuries-old edifices, boat-filled harbours and seafood-speciality trattorias, this rugged part of the Italian Riviera lives up to all the hype. Don’t leave without tasting a Ligurian delicacy, pesto sauce!
If you want to get active, hop on the Sentiero Azzurro cliffside hiking trail. This route winds through the villages and is steeped with unique finds and sublime sea vistas. Visiting all five villages in one day isn’t recommended (or really even that feasible).
It’s better to take your time and see just one or two towns, rather than rush through them all. I’d recommend visiting Riomaggiore, Monarola and Vernazza, which are all connected by train.
17. Venice
Venice needs no introduction, and it’s a city that’s on practically every traveller’s bucket list. Famous for its maze-like canals, Venetian glass and awe-inspiring architecture, this Italian city is well worth adding to your itinerary.
Located about two and a half hours away, Venice is one of the top day trips from Milan by train. Of course, the city deserves more than just one day, but if it’s your first time in Italy, a day can help you determine if you really want to come back again (which, I don’t doubt, you most certainly will).
Most of the city’s highlights are located within close proximity of each other, meaning that you can see a lot on a day trip to Venice from Milan. Kick off your day in St Marks Square and peer up at the Bell Tower of St Marks Basilica. Feel the breeze on a romantic gondola ride and definitely don’t miss the Grand Canal of Venice and Rialto Bridge.
Stroll the streets at your own pace, watch local glassmakers in the stores and sip wine in one of the many canal-front restaurants. The picturesque canals, old bridges and enchanting atmosphere will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
16. Padua
Located in Northern Italy’s Veneto region, Padua is a vibrant university town that’s teeming with artistic flair. Known for its scientific, literary and religious heritage, Padua is the setting of Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew”.
If you enjoy art and architecture, this is one of the best day trips from Milan. plus, it’s just two hours away. Swing by the 14th-century Scrovegni Chapel and admire the famous frescoes painted by Giotto. Stroll around Prato della Valle, Italy’s largest square and visit the birthplace of modern medicine, Padua University.
Indulge in Italian cuisine alongside the 13th-century canal and shop for souvenirs in the arcaded streets lined with shops. Don’t miss the 13th-century Basilica of St. Anthony, known for its Byzantine-style domes and impressive artworks.
15. Vicenza
Get off the beaten path and venture to the town of Vicenza. Located about two hours away, this northwestern gem is famed for Palladio’s Renaissance-style Villa Rotonda.
Located in the valley between the Monti Lessini and Monti Berici, Vicenza is home to must-see monuments, grandiose palaces and bustling piazzas. As one of Italy’s biggest industrial centres for textiles and steel, it’s also pinned as the country’s capital for gold and jewellery production.
Soak up the buzz in the beating heart of Vicenza’s, the Piazza dei Signori. Shop for local finds at the weekly market, get your caffeine fix with an espresso in the cafes and see cultural landmarks like the Loggia del Capitanio and the 13th-century Torre Bissara.
14. Lugano, Switzerland
If you’re looking to see more of Europe, jump on a day trip from Milan to Switzerland! Lugano is located on the coast of Lake Lugano and can be comfortably explored in one day.
In under an hour, you can reach this lakeside town in southern Switzerland. Immerse yourself in the mix of cultures here as you taste the cuisine and admire the architecture. Hit the mountain bike trails on two wheels, relax on a lakeside beach and eat as much fondue as you can get!
Start your day in Piazza della Riforma, which boasts a pastel-coloured, neoclassical style and spend the afternoon by the glacial Lake Lugano. If you’re searching for day trips from Milan in winter, Lugano offers snow-capped peaks and winter activities aplenty. Take the funicular to Monte Bre, shop in the Christmas Markets and see the best views of the city from the Punto Panoramico.
13. Florence
As the capital of Tuscany, Florence flaunts myriad masterpieces, architectural gems and art galleries aplenty. From Michelangelo’s ‘‘David’’ sculpture in the Galleria dell’Accademia to Botticelli’s ‘‘The Birth of Venus’’ in the Uffizi Gallery, this city is perfectly fit for art enthusiasts, history buffs and culture vultures.
The list of Renaissance art and architectural masterpieces really just goes on and on, but if there’s one thing you can’t miss it’s the Duomo, a terracotta-tiled, domed cathedral.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and appreciate the world-class architecture as you wander around the city. Admire the unique architecture of one of the largest cathedrals in the world, the 14th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria. See the sculptures in the Uffizi Gallery, cross over the famous Medieval bridge, Ponte Vecchio and people-watch in the panoramic square, Piazzale Michelangelo.
As one of the best day trips from Milan, Florence can be reached by train in under 2 hours. Although one day in Florence may not seem like enough, it’s possible to squeeze in a handful of the highlights. Just be sure to book your tickets online and in advance!
12. Pavia
Milan is the perfect place to soak up all things glitz and glamour, but if you need a city break, here’s why you should escape to nearby Pavia.
First off, this gem is located just 20 minutes away. So if you’re on the hunt for a short day trip, Pavia is more than suitable. Located in the Lombardy region, the biggest highlight here is the Carthusian Monastery of Pavia.
Tick off the major attraction and spend the rest of your day peering up at medieval towers, marvelling at the architecture and of course, drinking plenty of vino. Watch local life unfold from a cafe in the city centre and bring your day to a close by the rolling riverside. For a sweet, simple and peaceful day trip, you can’t go wrong with Pavia.
11. Monza
Home to a rich history that dates back to the Iron Age, Monza is packed with fascinating finds. Better yet, it’s just a short 15 minutes away, making it one of the quickest day trips from Milan by train.
Peer up at Monza Cathedral’s black and white facade, see the most famous example of Lombard goldsmithing, the Iron Crown and spend some time at the Royal Villa, locally known as Reggia di Monza. Don’t miss out on exploring the park here, which is one of the largest urban parks in all of Europe.
Other popular attractions include the Monza Circuit, the 13th-century palace Arengario and the Ponte dei Leoni bridge. After a day filled with sightseeing, relish your tastebuds with a bite to eat. Head to any of the local trattorias and try one of the city’s most notorious dishes, risotto with luganega (sausage).
10. Bergamo (Citta Alta)
Bergamo is a traveller’s treasure trove, with myriad monuments, UNESCO-listed sites and sprawling streets scattered all around. The ancient town of Bergamo is just under one hour away, making it an ideal day trip from Milan by train.
The Citta Alta, which translates as Upper City, is situated on the hilltops. Dating back to Medieval times, this is the old city of Bergamo and is encircled by enormous defensive walls. These walls were constructed back in the 15th century and are UNESCO World Heritage-listed.
This part of Bergamo is easily accessible by walking or via the funicular and it’s a must-see for any history-loving travellers. Be sure to add Piazza Vecchia, the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and the city gates to your bucket list.
9. Lake Como
As one of the most popular travel destinations in Italy, Lake Como undoubtedly deserves a spot on this list. Sitting on the cusp of the iconic lake, the Roman town of Como is crowned with a world of lavish experiences.
Located just an hour away, Lake Como is one of the best day trips from Milan by train. Dotted with a steep wooded shoreline, glimmering water, gourmet cuisine and ancient towns, Lake Como has something for every kind of traveller.
Lock lips with traditional Italian cuisine, wander around the plant-framed villas and see the mountain-hugging towns from afar on a boat ride.
Shop in the boutiques and snap plenty of Insta-worthy photos in the vibrant village streets.
You can experience northern Italy in style, but you won’t be able to see it all in a day.
A day trip would generally involve spending your time in the larger town of Como, which is located at the southern end of the lake. You could see more by boarding a ferry to Varenna or Bellagio.
8. Lake Maggiore
Although Lake Como gets all the action, there are plenty more postcard-worthy sites to discover. Lake Maggiore is nestled in between two picturesque towns, Piedmont and Lombardy, which are just one hour from Milan.
Lake Maggiore is dotted with three different islands, Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola Superiore. Visit Palazzo Borromeo’s 10-tiered Baroque garden, wander around the blooming avenues of Isola Madre. Soak up the quaint fishing village vibes in Isola Superiore and admire the beauty of the Borromean Islands.
If you’re looking for the best place to swim in Lake Maggiore, head up north near Maccagno and Pino, which is located close to the Swiss border. If you’re hiring a car, stop by must-see towns like Verbania, Stresa and Baveno.
7. Bologna
Teeming with terracotta-tiled edifices, maze-like streets and a world of whimsical escapes, Bologna is famous for many things. The list of attractions here goes on and on, but it’s the food scene that steals the show.
Coined as the foodie capital of the world, this cuisine-and-culture-packed town serves up all the vibes. You’ll come for the pasta, but you’ll be surprised by just how much more there is on offer.
This atmospheric university city is well worth the visit, and it’s ideal for a day trip from Milan by train. From the cobbled streets and medieval architecture to the sprawling plazas and Renaissance structures, falling in love with Bologna is easy.
As the historic capital of Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, you can expect a long list of things to do. Spot the arched colonnades in Piazza Maggiore and the leaning medieval towers, Asinelli and Garisenda. More hot spots include the Fountain of Neptune, City Hall and the Basilica di San Petronio.
6. Aosta Valley
Next up on this list is the panoramic alpine landscapes of the Aosta Valley, locally known as Valle d’Aosta. Located in northwest Italy, this town is sandwiched by both France and Switzerland.
This part of the Western Alps is well-known for its snowy peaks - the Mont Blanc, Monte Rosa, Matterhorn and Gran Paradiso. With snow-capped sites and activities aplenty, the Aosta Valley is one of the top day trips from Milan in winter.
Major ski resorts here are the Courmayeur and Cervinia, and they’re definitely worth checking out for an extended stay. During the spring and autumn, the region comes to life. Get enchanted by the countryside castles and fortresses, trek along the river valleys and soak up the fairytale-like feel of this serene place.
Highlights include the 14th-century Castello Fénis and Castello di Verrès, as well as the Gran Paradiso National Park. History enthusiasts should squeeze in a visit to the Teatro Romano (Roman Theatre), which once held up to 3,000 spectators.
5. Turin
As Italy’s fourth biggest city, Turin surprisingly flies fairly off most tourist’s radars. Nestled in northern Italy, this city is crowned for its culinary delights and striking architecture.
As the capital city of the Piedmont region, you can expect to see everything from stately baroque buildings to cafe-lined boulevards. Grand squares like Piazza Castello and Piazza San Carlo are a must-see, alongside the 19th-century Mole Antonelliana, a tower that’s home to the National Cinema Museum.
Stroll around the historic heart of the city and uncover Turin’s royal past in Palazzo Reale. Pack your appetite and taste some of the region’s famed food and wine, like agnolotti, which are small pieces of lamb-filled pasta.
4. Parma
Located in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, Parma is a food lover’s delight. Famous for its Parmesan cheese and Parma ham, this university city is one of the top day trips from Milan.
Satiate your senses in this gastronomically-rich town, and leave plenty of room for dessert. Listed as a UNESCO Creative City for gastronomy, it’s also coined as the capital of the Food Valley.
In between all the eating, be sure to visit the iconic inventory of monuments, museums and churches. Stop by the frescoed Parma Cathedral and the pink marble Baptistery and listen to the symphonies at the 19th-century opera house, Teatro Regio. Must-see spots for art enthusiasts include the Galleria Nazionale and the Palazzo della Pilotta.
3. Verona
Famed by the tale of two star-crossed lovers, Verona is replete with romance at every angle. But there’s so much more to discover than the Renaissance romance of ill-fated Romeo and Juliet.
Verona is arrayed with architectural gems, from the Castelvecchio Fortress and the 2nd-century-AD arena to the garden Giardino Giusti and the Piazza delle Erbe.
Verona was formed during the Roman Era and has been added to the list of Italy’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites. Tucked on the cusp of the Adige River, this city is steeped with a deep history, poetry, music and art background.
If you’re interested in seeing one of William Shakespeare’s favourite cities, you can’t miss a trip here. Verona is one of the best day trips from Milan by train, and there are many things to do. Add the House of Juliet, Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, Duomo di Santa Maria and San Fermo Maggiore to your bucket list.
2. Lake Garda
Although Lake Como gets all the attention, Lake Garda is framed with archaeological sites, sprawling shorelines and crystal-clear water.
This corner of northern Italy is home to one of the biggest and cleanest local lakes, and its’ crystalline waters will have you feeling like you’re on a beach holiday in Sardegna.
From the harbour views from Rocca Scaligera to the nearby Grotte di Catullo archaeological site, you’ll find everything from history and culture to food and fun. Character-packed towns like Bardolino are replete with Romanesque churches, while popular spots like Sirmione are famed for their Roman thermal baths.
Top attractions in Lake Garda include the Medieval Scaligero Castle and the Gardone Riviera. Don’t leave without seeing the jagged Dolomites mountains from the northern-situated Riva del Garda.
1. Genoa
Last up on this list of the best day trips from Milan, the port city of Genoa. Located about 90 minutes away, it’s well-known as the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.
Home to one of the largest ports in Europe, this is also the capital of Italy's Liguria region. Highlights here include the Romanesque Cathedral of San Lorenzo, the monumental Piazza de Ferrari and the Teatro Carlo Felice opera house.
One of the main family-fun attractions is the aquarium which has over 12000 specimens, 600 animal species and 200 vegetal species. Culture enthusiasts and history buffs should add the Baroque-style Royal Palace Museum to their to-do lists.
Genoa is worth visiting for its Riviera alone, but it’s also ideal if you’re interested in architecture and history. This city has the largest historic centre in Europe, so it’s easy to get immersed in the ambience as you wander around the labyrinth-like streets.
Best Time to Visit Milan
Ultimately, the best time to visit Milan depends on your personal preferences, travel style and budget.
The most popular time to travel to Milan is in May, June, September and October. During these four months, you can make the most of the pleasant temperatures and score affordable prices. Plus, you’ll battle fewer crowds than in the summer season.
While July and August are the hottest months, they are also the busiest. Autumn and spring also boast beautiful colours, offering a unique perspective on the colour-splashed landscape.
On my last trip to Milan, I visited in mid-late October. The weather was not too bad, and there were only a few rainy days. We were able to enjoy lots of sightseeing activities and do a day trip from Milan to Lake Como. The best part was, that there were hardly any crowds at the big attractions.
If you’re eager to see the art museums and galleries and indulge in the dining scene, opt to visit Milan in the winter months. November to March has cooler weather and discounted rates on accommodation, airfares and activities. Plus, there are many fun day trips from Milan in winter!
Things to do in Milan
Now that you’re all caught up on the best day trips from Milan, let’s take it one step further. Here are some of the top attractions and activities to add to your bucket list:
Master the art of making pizza & gelato
See the world-famous Last Supper by Da Vinci
Head up to the terraces of Milan Cathedral, locally known as Il Duomo
Keep your Europe trip budget-friendly with the Milan Pass
Taste the flavours of a street food walking tour
See it all aboard a Navigli District canal boat tour
Squeeze more into your Milan itinerary on the hop-on hop-off bus
How to Get Around Milan
The best way to get around Milan is by using the public transport system called the ATM (Azienda Trasporti Milanesi).
This network is efficient and affordable, making it the best way to do day trips from Milan, Italy. The ATM includes an extensive system of subways, buses and trams. Google Maps is also one of the best apps to use in Europe, so be sure to download it and plan your route ahead of time.
Taxis are another decent option, but they can get pretty expensive if you rely on them frequently and are not splitting the costs. Keep in mind that traffic and parking in Milan’s inner city (as with most major European cities) can be a nightmare. So if you’re planning on renting a car, keep this in mind.
Milan is home to two main airports:
Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) is about 48 km northeast of the city centre
Milan Linate Airport (LIN) is around 8 km from the city centre
Where to Stay in Milan
Whether you want to ditch the crowds or stay in the centre of the action, Milan has something for everyone. For the full breakdown, check out this guide on the Best Places to Stay in Milan, Italy. Otherwise. here’s a quick rundown on the top four neighbourhoods and best budget, mid-range and luxury hotels in the fashion capital.
Centro Storico
Milan’s historic heart, the Centro Storico, is home to iconic architecture and some of the city’s top attractions. Centred around the Piazza del Duomo and the Duomo di Milano, you’ll find everything from modern skyscrapers to ancient churches. This is an ideal place to stay if it’s your first time in Milan.
Top Places to Stay in Centro Storico:
Budget (€): Ibis Milano Centro
Mid-range (€€): Hotel Sanpi Milano
Luxury (€€€): Casa Baglioni Milan
Navigli
Milan’s Navigli district is interwoven with canals like Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese. This area is arrayed with antique shops, vintage stores and a buzzing bar scene. Highlights of staying here include the sunsets over the canals!
Top Places to Stay in Navigli:
Budget (€): Hotel La Vignetta
Mid-range (€€): Radisson Collection Hotel, Santa Sofia Milan
Luxury (€€€): Magna Pars l'Hotel à Parfum
Porta Venezia
Porta Venezia offers insight into local life in Milan and it’s also very popular with the LGBTQ+ community. Via Lecco is filled with a fun nightlife and Corso Buenos Aires, the city’s iconic shopping street, cuts right through the district.
Top Places to Stay in Porta Venezia:
Budget (€): Hotel Roxy
Mid-range (€€): Hotel Fenice
Luxury (€€€): Sheraton Diana Majestic
Stazione Centrale
Stazione Centrale is an ideal base to see the best day trips from Milan. You can enjoy the convenience and ease of a short trek to/from the station and airport. The main train station, Milano Centrale, is another popular option.
Top Places to Stay in Stazione Centrale:
Budget (€): Hotel Bristol
Mid-range (€€): Hotel Colombia
Luxury (€€€): Residence De La Gare
FAQs
What cities are close to Milan by train?
There are many places to visit from Milan by train and the most popular destinations include Como, Varenna and Bellagio. These top spots are ideal for the spring, autumn and summer seasons.
What town is one hour from Milan?
You can do many day trips from Milan, Italy in under one hour. One of the most underrated destinations is Bologna, which is also known as the country’s foodie capital.
Can I do a day trip from Milan to Lake Como?
Lake Como is directly connected with Milan by train and the services run frequently and are affordable. A day trip to Lake Como from Milan is worthwhile, but be sure to start early in the morning and buy your tickets ahead of time.
Can you do a day trip to Switzerland from Milan?
There are a handful of different day trips from Milan to Switzerland, but the Bernina Express to St Moritz is probably the most popular. This option takes you through the Swiss Alps, glaciers and lakes on the mountain-hugging railways.
Why Should You Take a Day Trip from Milan?
Milan is ideal for shopping, nightlife, cuisine and fashion, but when you need to mix up the sightseeing, look no further than a day trip. Northern Italy is nestled with quaint villages, crystal-clear lakes and a world of architectural and archaeological gems.
If you’re planning a trip to Europe, be sure to save this guide on the best day trips from Milan, Italy.