Top Day Trips from Milan
Milan, located in Western Lombardy, is a prime starting point for exploring a variety of nearby attractions. The Alps, Lake Como, and several towns with historic churches and cathedrals are all within easy reach. Cities like Verona, Bergamo, and Lake Garda are also accessible, thanks to Milan's extensive rail network. For the best hotel deals in Italy, choose the hotels in Italy.
Discover the best places to visit with our list of the top day trips from Milan.
1. Lake Como
Traveling by train from Milan, you can reach the city of Como in about 30 minutes. Como is the gateway to the picturesque towns along Lake Como, such as the beautiful Bellagio. Attractions include the Como Cathedral, the Basilica of Sant'Abbondio, and the panoramic views from the Brunate funicular. Shopping for silk products is also popular here. Consider a guided tour that includes a scenic lake cruise and a visit to Bellagio or Brunate, depending on the season.
2. Verona and Lake Garda
Verona, known for its Roman ruins and Shakespearean connections, is a must-visit. Highlights include the well-preserved Roman arena and the medieval art museum at the riverside castle. The town of Sirmione on Lake Garda is famous for its castle and Roman villa ruins. A day trip from Milan can combine Verona's historic sites with the beauty of Sirmione.
3. Bernina Express to St. Moritz
The Bernina Express offers a breathtaking journey from Tirano to St. Moritz, crossing bridges, tunnels, and gorges. The scenic train ride showcases the stunning Alpine landscape and ends in the luxurious Swiss resort of St. Moritz. A guided tour from Milan includes coach travel to Tirano and exploration time in both Tirano and St. Moritz.
4. Venice
Just 2.5 hours from Milan, Venice's iconic sights such as St. Mark's Square, the Basilica, and the Doge's Palace are within reach for a day trip. A guided tour from Milan can enhance the experience with historical insights and includes a walking tour and a visit to a glass-blowing workshop.
5. Florence
Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is only two hours from Milan by high-speed train. Key attractions like the Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, and the Uffizi Gallery are accessible. A day trip package may include a hop-on-hop-off bus ticket and optional skip-the-line gallery admission.
6. Turin
Turin, just over an hour from Milan, boasts broad avenues, historic palaces, and a renowned Egyptian museum. The city's cafés offer a glimpse into its regal past, and the Roman gate and the Shroud of Turin add to its historic appeal.
7. Cinque Terre
The Cinque Terre, a string of five coastal villages, offers a picturesque setting for a day trip. Although challenging to explore independently in a day, guided tours from Milan are available, providing boat and train travel between the charming villages.
8. Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands
From Stresa, a short train ride from Milan, you can visit the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore. Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori each offer unique palaces and gardens to explore.
9. Bergamo's Citta Alta
Bergamo's Citta Alta is a medieval walled city with historic buildings and stunning views. Notable sites include the Palazzo della Ragione, Santa Maria Maggiore, and the Cappella Colleoni.
10. Brescia's Roman Treasures
Brescia, an often-overlooked city, is home to some of the most impressive Roman ruins in northern Europe, including the Tempio Capitolino and the Civici Musei d'Arte e Storia Santa Giulia.
11. Pavia
Pavia is known for its medieval towers, the Castello Visconti, and the Romanesque Church of San Michele. The nearby Certosa di Pavia is a Renaissance masterpiece.
12. Varese
Varese features the Sacro Monte di Varese, a UNESCO-listed site with chapels depicting Biblical scenes, surrounded by Art Nouveau villas and formal gardens.
For more travel ideas, consider exploring the Swiss region of Ticino or Italy's top ski resorts. Renting a car can provide access to rural and natural attractions. Discover more of Italy's beautiful gardens and top things to do by visiting tripates.com.
