After delving into the rich tapestry of things to do in Milan, from marveling at the Duomo to browsing the boutiques of the Fashion District, day trips from Milan offer a splendid opportunity to explore the beauty and history of Northern Italy. These excursions introduce travelers to the stunning landscapes, ancient towns, and cultural treasures that lie just a short journey from the city’s bustling streets.
Venturing beyond Milan, you’ll find a diverse range of things to do in Italy, from the serene lakes and majestic Alps in the north to the historical sites and vineyards dotting the countryside. Each day trip offers a unique glimpse into the regions that have shaped Italian culture, cuisine, and history.
Selecting where to stay in Milan is crucial for those wishing to seamlessly blend urban exploration with the allure of the Italian countryside. A strategic location allows for easy access to Milan’s architectural wonders and cultural highlights, as well as convenient starting points for your adventures beyond the city.
Discover Best Day Trips from Milan, Italy
1. Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como, known for its stunning landscapes, elegant villas, and the picturesque towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Como, is a jewel in the Italian Lake District. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake or explore the charming lakeside towns.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: About 30-40 minutes by train from Milan to Como
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Stunning landscapes, elegant villas, picturesque towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Como
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Villa Carlotta: €12
- Ferry Ride: €5-€10
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Bellagio, Varenna, Como, Lake Como itself
Travel Tip: Consider a ferry ride from Como to Bellagio for breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
2. Bergamo, Italy
Bergamo, a medieval city, is divided into two parts: the Città Alta (Upper City), a hilltop medieval town, surrounded by 16th-century defensive walls, and the Città Bassa (Lower City), the modern part of the city. The Piazza Vecchia and the fresco-filled Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore are must-visits.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: About 50 minutes by train from Milan
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Città Alta (Upper City), Piazza Vecchia, Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore: Free
- Funicular to Città Alta: €2.60
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Città Alta, Venetian Walls, Piazza Vecchia
Travel Tip: Take the funicular to the Città Alta for a unique experience and stunning views of the Lombardy plains.
3. Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre, a string of centuries-old seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline, is famous for its colorful houses and vineyards clinging to steep terraces. The five towns offer beautiful trails, delicious cuisine, and stunning sea views.
Distance: Approximately 200 km
Travel Time: About 3 hours by train from Milan
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Five picturesque seaside villages, hiking trails, beautiful sea views
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Cinque Terre Card (for hiking trails): €7.50
- Train Pass: €16
Budget: Approximately €50-€100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Manarola, Vernazza, Monterosso, Riomaggiore, Corniglia
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the trails between the villages, and try the local seafood dishes.
4. Verona, Italy
Verona, known as the setting for Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” features medieval old town and Roman ruins, including the Verona Arena, a huge 1st-century Roman amphitheater still hosting concerts and an annual opera festival.
Distance: Approximately 160 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by train from Milan
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta), Verona Arena, Roman ruins
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Verona Arena: €10
- Juliet’s House: €6
Budget: Approximately €40-€80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Piazza delle Erbe, Ponte Pietra, Castel San Pietro
Travel Tip: Visit Juliet’s House to see the famous balcony and don’t miss the chance to experience an opera at the Verona Arena.
5. Venice, Italy
Venice, famed for its canals, Gothic architecture, and artistic heritage, is an archipelago of 118 islands connected by hundreds of bridges. Key attractions include St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Grand Canal.
Distance: Approximately 270 km
Travel Time: About 2.5 hours by high-speed train from Milan
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, Grand Canal
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- St. Mark’s Basilica: €3
- Doge’s Palace: €25
Budget: Approximately €60-€120 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Rialto Bridge, St. Mark’s Square, Grand Canal
Travel Tip: Consider a gondola ride for a unique perspective of the city, and try to explore the less crowded areas beyond St. Mark’s Square.
6. Turin, Italy
Turin, known for its refined architecture and cuisine, was the first capital of modern Italy. Highlights include the Mole Antonelliana, the National Cinema Museum, and the Egyptian Museum.
Distance: Approximately 140 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by high-speed train from Milan
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Mole Antonelliana, National Cinema Museum, Egyptian Museum
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- National Cinema Museum: €12
- Egyptian Museum: €15
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Piazza San Carlo, Royal Palace of Turin, Po River
Travel Tip: Don’t miss trying the local delicacies such as chocolates and the aperitif culture in the historic cafes.
7. Parma, Italy
Parma, a city in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, is famous for its Prosciutto di Parma, Parmesan cheese, and rich artistic heritage. Visit the Parma Cathedral and the Baptistery, and indulge in the culinary delights.
Distance: Approximately 120 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by train from Milan
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Parma Cathedral, Baptistery, local culinary delights like Prosciutto di Parma and Parmesan cheese
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Parma Cathedral: Free
- Baptistery: €8
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Piazza Garibaldi, Parco Ducale, Teatro Farnese
Travel Tip: Explore local food producers to taste authentic Parmesan cheese and Prosciutto, and consider a guided food tour.
8. Pavia, Italy
Pavia, a small Lombardy city south of Milan, is known for its medieval architecture, historic university, and the Certosa di Pavia, a grand monastery complex. The city’s historic center is rich in art and history.
Distance: Approximately 35 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by train from Milan
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Certosa di Pavia, medieval architecture, historic university
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Certosa di Pavia: Free (donations appreciated)
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Ticino River, Cathedral of Pavia, Visconti Castle
Travel Tip: Visit the Certosa di Pavia early in the day to enjoy its tranquility and take a stroll along the Ticino River for a relaxing afternoon.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Milan, Italy
What are the best day trips from Milan?
Top day trips from Milan include Lake Como, the Cinque Terre, Verona, and the Franciacorta wine region. Each offers unique landscapes, historical sites, and cultural experiences.
Is a visit to Lake Como recommended from Milan?
Definitely! Lake Como is renowned for its stunning scenery, elegant villas, and charming towns like Bellagio and Varenna. It’s a perfect getaway for nature and luxury lovers alike.
Can I explore the Cinque Terre on a day trip from Milan?
Yes, the Cinque Terre, with its five picturesque villages perched on the Italian Riviera, is accessible from Milan. It’s a great destination for breathtaking views, hiking, and enjoying local cuisine.
Are there guided tours to Verona from Milan?
Yes, there are various guided tours to Verona, known for its Roman arena and the legendary balcony of Juliet. These tours often include highlights of the city’s rich history and architecture.
What can I see in Bergamo on a day trip?
Bergamo offers a fascinating blend of history and culture. Its upper city (Città Alta) is filled with medieval architecture, while the lower city (Città Bassa) has a more modern vibe.
Is a trip to the Franciacorta wine region worth it?
Absolutely, especially for wine enthusiasts. Franciacorta is known for its exquisite sparkling wines. Many wineries offer tours and tastings, set amidst beautiful vineyard landscapes.
Can I visit Switzerland on a day trip from Milan?
Yes, the Swiss cities of Lugano and St. Moritz are within reach for a day trip. They offer a unique mix of Swiss culture, luxury shopping, and stunning alpine scenery.
Are there any natural parks near Milan for a day trip?
The Lakes of Avigliana and the Ticino River Park are great natural escapes near Milan. These areas are ideal for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying tranquil lake views.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/milan-l139?activity_type=dayTrip
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