23 Best day trips from Milan, Italy

Milan isn’t just about fashion and fabulous food – it’s also the perfect launchpad for epic day trips. Thanks to its prime location and excellent transportation connections, Milan makes it a breeze to venture out and explore.

I love Milan and could easily spend days on end in the city, but Northern Italy is so beautiful that it would be a shame not to explore further! Some of my favorite Italian towns like Verona, Bologna and Sirmione are super easy to access from Milan, and you can easily hop over to Switzerland too!

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Below I share my recommendations for the best day trips from Milan. I made sure there’s a nice combo of stunning lakes, historic cities, coastal towns, foodie meccas, and even tossed some adventurous options in there!

Day trips from Milan for Nature Lovers

Looking for an escape from Milan’s hustle and bustle? Milan’s surroundings offer a wealth of natural delights just waiting to be discovered.

Head to Lake Como for serene lakeside views or explore the rugged charm of the Italian Alps. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, conquering peaks, or simply seeking solace in nature’s embrace, Milan’s day trip options have got you covered.

Lake Como

Train: 37min to Como, 1h to Varenna
Drive: 51km / 53min to Como, 74km / 1h 12min to Varenna

Lake Como is one of the most popular day trips from Milan, and for good reason.
It is famous for its breathtaking beauty with clear waters surrounded by mountains and charming villages.

One of its most famous attractions is Villa del Balbianello with immaculate gardens and panoramic views. Bellagio, often referred to as the Pearl of Lake Como, is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and scenic promenade. In Como town, don’t miss out on the cathedral and the views from the top of the funicular.

Read next: Lake Como Guide

Best tours of Lake Como

Escape the city’s hustle and bustle and enjoy the tranquility and natural splendor of Lake Como on this Lake Como day trip with lake cruise. 

Start with a walking tour through the town of Como, where you can soak up the local atmosphere, explore its historic streets, and indulge in delicious Italian cuisine, followed by a scenic cruise on Lake Como, allowing you to admire the breathtaking vistas and stunning villas from the water.

Lake Garda

Train: 1h + 20min bus to Sirmione, 1h + 30min bus to Garda
Drive: 133 km / 1h 46min to Sirmione, 151 km / 2h to Garda

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and is a breathtaking destination with a ton of places to see and lots of fun water-borne activities on crystal-clear waters, framed by majestic mountains and verdant rolling hills.

Explore the charming lakeside towns such as Sirmione, Garda, and Malcesine, where medieval castles, colorful houses, and cobblestone streets add to the enchanting atmosphere. Embark on a leisurely boat cruise to soak in the panoramic views or indulge in water activities like sailing, windsurfing, or kayaking.

Read next: Sirmione Travel Guide

Best tours of Lake Garda

Opt for this day tour from Milan to combine Lake Garda with a visit to nearby Verona. If you choose to visit Lake Garda on your own accord, make sure to join this sunset cruise from Sirmione or explore multiple towns on this tour.

Lake Maggiore

Train: 59min to Stresa
Drive: 91km/1h 14min to Stresa

Lake Maggiore is the second largest lake in Italy and crosses the Swiss border. 

The Borroman Islands on Lake Maggiore are one of the most unique places to see near MilanThey include Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Bella where you can visit some of Italy’s most prestigious palaces and exquisite botanical gardens.

Make sure to visit Stresa and stroll down the picturesque promenade and Villa Pallavicino’s groomed gardens.

Best tours of Lake Maggiore

For an unforgettable day trip to Lake Maggiore, join this tour from Milan. If you prefer more privacy then this private tour from Milan is for you. If driving on your own, make sure to join this boat tour to the Borromean islands from Stresa.

Day trips from Milan to the coast

Ready to trade Milan’s cityscape for the salty breeze and sandy shores? Just a short drive from the fashion capital you can lounge on sun-kissed beaches, indulge in freshly caught seafood, and stroll through charming seaside towns.

Cinque Terre

Train: 3h 7 min to Monterosso
Drive: 3h 23min/229km to Monterosso

Cinque Terre is a set of 5 picturesque fishing villages (Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore) with colorful houses in the Italian Riviera. They are part of Cinque Terre National Park, declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997.

With only a day in Cinque Terre, you won’t get time to see them all without stressing, so I recommend focusing on Riomaggiore, Manarola, and Monterosso. There are stunning promenades connecting the towns or take the train for quick transfers. 

Best tours of Cinque Terre

For the ultimate convenience, join this day trip from Milan to Cinque Terre. If driving on your own, join this private boat excursion from Monterosso or join this sunset cruise to see all 5 Cinque Terre towns from the water.

Genoa

Train: 1h 27min
Drive: 2h 18min/147.8km

Genoa is the colorful capital of the Liguria region. Historically known as an important port city, it still prides itself in having one of Europe’s largest ports where you’ll find the aquarium and the maritime museum, among other attractions.

Genoas’s UNESCO-listed historic center is a stunning place to walk around with its medieval buildings and Renaissance palaces. The most extravagant is the Royal Palace with its lavish furniture and frescoed ceilings.

You also find several opulent palaces in Via Garibaldi like Palazzo Rosso (Red Palace) recognized for its red exterior, loggias, and frescoed ceiling. Across the street, visit Palazzo Bianco (white palace) recognized for the beautiful courtyard with white and black checkered marble pavements.

Genoa is also a fabulous foodie destination rich in fresh seafood and the birthplace of Pesto alla Genovese.

Best tours of Genoa

There are several organized Milan day trips to Genoa. I recommend this private tour giving you a full day in Genoa, but if you also want to stop by Portofino, opt for this group tour.

To try the best of Genoa’s foodie scene, make sure you join this food tour or this local cooking class.

Related: Genoa Itinerary – 1,2 or 4 days

Varese

Train: 52 min
Drive: 1h 9min/59.1km

Varese is known as the Garden City and Little Versailles due to the many beautiful palaces and gardens. If you can only visit one garden, make it Estensi Gardens, in the back of Palazzo Comunale. Once the summer residence of Duke Francesco III D’Este, it now houses the Town Hall.

Head to the UNESCO-protected Sacro Monte di Varese where you find beautiful chapels and sweeping views of Varese.

Don’t miss the sunset at Piazzale del Belvedere at Campo dei Fiori, it doesn’t get much better! Varese is one of the easiest day trips from Milan by train at under an hour’s journey.

Best tours of Varese

Once you reach Varese, join this tour of Palazzo e Giardini Estensi and Sacro Monte. If you are a foodie, you will love this dinner experience at a local home.

Portofino

Train:2h 50min
Drive:1h 44min/176.5km

Portofino is a luxurious vacation destination on the Italian Riviera and one of my favorite places to visit near Milan. 

It has colorful houses and a vibrant marina filled with restaurants and bars. If you want to do some shopping, you will find many high-end shops in Via Roma.

Portofino is also home to beautiful beaches, so if you want to work on your tan, I recommend you head to the beach at Paraggi which is a 20-minute walk along the beautiful coastline from Portofino.

Best tours of Portofino

Once you arrive in Portofino, this kayak tour is the best way to explore the coast or if you prefer, join this boat tour. If you also want to explore Genoa, take this Genoa and Portofino day trip from Milan.

Best day trips from Milan to Switzerland

Milan’s just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Switzerland, the land of chocolate and cheese. Whether you’re craving a taste of Swiss fondue, alpine views or a leisurely stroll through picture-perfect towns, you can’t go wrong with a Milan to Switzerland day trip!

Bernina Express to St. Moritz

Train:
Drive:

Embark on a remarkable journey aboard Switzerland’s Bernina Red Train along one of the world’s most magnificent railway routes.

You’ll venture along the UNESCO-listed route renowned for its unparalleled alpine vistas of the breathtaking Swiss Alps as you traverse the Bernina Pass. When you reach St Moritz you’ll have ample free time to explore.

Best Bernina Express & St Moritz tours

I recommend you book this guided tour from Milano. You’ll ride the Bernina Express one way and take a coach ride back while also have plenty of time to explore St Moritz.

Lugano

Train:  1h 10 min
Drive: 1h 33min/79.5km

Cross the border to Switzerland and uncover Lugano, one of the most beautiful towns to visit near Milan. Take the funicular to Monte San Salvatore for sweeping views over the town, Lake Lugano, and the surrounding mountains.

Lugano is super charming with its colorful houses and lively squares while the lake promenade provides plenty of peace.

Best tours of Lugano

For a full day tour from Milan, take this combined tour to Lake Lugano and Lake Como. Lugano itself is best explored with a local on this walking tour. If you want professional pictures from your vacation, I highly recommend this tour with a professional photographer.

Milan day trips to nearby towns

Situated smack dab in the heart of northern Italy, Milan is the ultimate launchpad for your day-tripping adventures to many charming towns.

Venture to the romantic town of Verona, where Shakespearean tales mingle with ancient Roman ruins, experience the medieval mystique of Bergamo or, why not, explore Florence!

Turin

Train: 1h 7 min
Drive: 2h 13min/145.2km

Located at the foot of the Alps, Turin makes for one of the best day trips out of Milan. The city boasts a wealth of history and you can’t leave Turin without taking a tour of the majestic Royal Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Turin is recognized for its chocolate so I highly recommend going on this chocolate tour when you visit. Make sure to book a table at La Cloche 1967 where they take traditional Genovese cuisine to the next level (make sure to try the truffles!)

Best tours of Turin

Take this day trip from Milan to experience the highlights of Turin with a local guide. If you travel to Turin on your own, make sure you explore the city by bike and join this foodie tour to sample the best of Turin’s local cuisine. 

Bergamo

Train: 48min
Drive:1h 10min/51.8km

Sitting at the foothills of the Italian Alps, Bergamo is one of the most underrated yet easy day trips from Milan. The city is divided into two parts, Cittá Alta (upper part) and Cittá Bassa (lower part.) 

Take the funicular to access Cittá Alta which is surrounded by Venetian walls. In the heart of it, you’ll find Piazza Vecchia, home to several historical buildings and the perfect starting point for exploring the old town. 

Best tours of Bergamo

The best way to explore Bergamo is this private tour from Milan or if you prefer to combine Bergamo with wine tasting in a Franciacorta winery on the way back. In Bergamo, join this foodie tour to savor the city’s flavors and this e-bike tour to get to know the city with a local.

Brescia

Train: 36min
Drive: 1h 25min/91.3km

Brescia is one of the towns close to Milan that sees way more Italian tourists than international ones which gives it a local feel. 

Make sure to climb up to Brescia Castle for sweeping views of the city. Brescia is very walkable and best explored on this fantastic guided walking tour. You will learn so much about the history of the ancient city!

It once was one of the most important Roman cities so visiting the Roman archaeological park is a must. 

Best tours of Brescia

Combine Brescia with a visit to Bergamo on this full-day tour from Milan. Alternatively, join this walking tour once you arrive in Brescia to get an overview of the city’s highlights.

Verona

Train: 1h 12min
Drive: 156 km / 2h 5 min

Verona is considered one of the most romantic in Italy. It is the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and here you can visit Juliet’s house as well as the tombs where the two lovers died.

Verona is packed with things to see and do. Take in a show at the Arena, stroll across the Ponte Castelvecchio and visit the Castle San Pietro for incredible views over the city. Be sure to sample the local food and drink from tortellini di Valeggio to Amarone wine.

This is definitely the best day trip from Milan for couples and romantics.

Best tours of Verona

I highly recommend this Verona and Lake Garda Day Trip from Milan which includes a walking tour of Verona and a visit to gorgeous Sirmion on Lake Garda. If driving on your own, make sure to join join this walking tour in Verona which includes all the highlights of the city. 

Bologna

Train: 1h 14min
Drive: 216 km / 2h 30min

Known by its nicknames – La Dotta (the educated one), La Rossa (the red one), and La Grassa (the fat one), Bologna offers a splendid blend of history, stunning architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine.

The historic center of Bologna is fairly small and walkable so I highly recommend you join this walking tour to get acquainted with the city and the main sights. You’ll learn so much about Bologna’s history and culture.

While the history and architecture of this city are impressive, nothing beats the food in Bologna. Emiglia Romagna region has always had a sweet spot for cuisine, and Bologna is the epicenter of all these flavors and delicacies.

Best tours of Bologna

There are many great tours in Bologna like walking tours to learn about the history and culture and food tours to sample all the best food. For the ultimate personalized experience, take this private tour from Milan to Bologna.

Mantua

Train: 2h
Drive: 182km / 2h 23min

Begin your day trip to Mantua by exploring the UNESCO Historic Center, where grand palaces, splendid squares, and charming cobblestone streets transport you to the Renaissance era. Admire the architectural masterpiece of Palazzo Ducale, wander through the magnificent gardens of Palazzo Te, or take a leisurely stroll along the romantic lakeshores of Lago di Mezzo.

Best tours of Mantua

Book this private walking tour where you’ll get to learn all about Mantua’s past from a knowledgeable guide, learn about the incredible architecture and gain an insight into the city’s thousand-year history.

Venice

Train: 2hr 27min
Drive: 266 km / 3h 4min

Venice is one of Italy’s most famous cities brimming with historical landmarks from St. Mark’s Basilica to the Doge’s Palace, the Grand Canal, and its many walkways and bridges like the beautiful Rialto Bridge.

Read next:
Things to do in Venice
Where to stay in Venice

No trip to Venice is complete without taking a gondola ride along the canals, weaving through narrow passageways and admiring the beautiful architecture that lines the waterways.

There are plenty of daily fast trains from Milan to Venice making it an easy day trip. If you plan on driving take the A13, but parking can be a nightmare, so taking the train is a better option for your day trip to Venice from Milan. 

Best tour of Venice

This guided tour from Milan is a convinient option. If you prefer to hop on the train, I highly recommend this walking tour once in Venice. It includes all the must-see attractions like St Mark’s Square and Basilica to Doge’s Palace, the Grand Canal and the Bridge of Sighs among many others.

Florence

Train: 2h
Drive: 312km / 3h 36min

The gorgeous Tuscan city of Florence is one of the best Italian day trips as the city is packed with art and architecture from the towering cathedral with its terracotta dome to the iconic statue of Michelangelo’s David.

See renaissance masterpieces by Botticelli, da Vinci and Raphael at the Uffizi Gallery, cross the charming Ponte Vecchio bridge which is lined with jewelry shops, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza della Signoria.

Best tours of Florence

I recommend you hop on the train to Florence and join this waling tour once there. Combine it with this Accademia Gallery Tour and the Uffizi Gallery Tour to take in all the best of Florence in just a short day.

Adventure day trips from Milan

Ready to add a dash of adrenaline to your Milan getaway? It’s time for some speed, be it on a race track or rollercoaster!

Motor Valley

Train: 1h 14min to Modena, 1h 24min to Imola
Drive: 178 km / 2h to Modena, 256km / 2h 53min to Imola

Buckle up and get ready for a journey through the Motor Valley, home to Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Ducati, and two world-famous racetracks. The area between Imola and Modena is a petrolhead’s paradise.

While I wouldn’t be against a Lambo in my garage, I have to be honest, this really isn’t my field of expertise but for those of you interested here’s the gist of everything you need to experience in the Italian Motor Valley;

• Imola race tracks and the Museo Checco Costa
• Ducati Museum and factory tour
• Museo Ferruccio Lamborghini focused on the brand’s history
• MUDETEC museum and Lamborghini factory tour for the modern models
• Museo Enzo Ferrari
• Maserati showroom & factory tour
• Modena race track
• Test drive a Ferrari in Modena 

Best tours of the Motor Valley

There are quite a few tracks, museums and factories and it might take you a couple of days if you’re committed to it all, but you should absolutely make some time for this Lamborghini and Ferrari tour. And depending on what you’re most interested in, you could book one which also includes the Pagani factory or Ducati museum.

Modena and Imola are easily accessible by train, but the race tracks are not in the city center so you’ll also need to grab a taxi or public bus. If you’d like to visit the Lamborghini factory and museums you’re best off renting a car or motorbike.

Gardaland

Train: 1h,
Drive: 137 km / 1h 42min

Gardaland is one of the top theme parks in Italy with a wide array of roller coasters, water rides, and themed areas like the Valley of the Kings from ancient Egypt. It’s an excellent day out for young adults (and older folks who don’t mind being scared shitless).

The highlights include adrenaline-fuelled rides like the Blue Tornado and Raptor rollercoasters, the stomach-churning Oblivion “dive rollercoaster”, and the heart-attack-inducing Space Vertigo. If you’re looking for excitement on your Milan day trip, then you can’t go wrong with Gardaland.

Gardaland tickets

You can opt to only visit Gardaland theme park or combine it with Sea Life Aquarium. There is even an option for a two-day ticket if you’re committed to all the rides!

Day trips from Milan for foodies

Hope you brought with you a pair of stretchy pants because some of Italy’s most delectable destinations are just a stone’s throw away from Milan! Explore the rich flavors of Parmigiano Reggiano and traditional balsamic vinegar, the velvety delights of handmade pasta and melt-in-your-mouth prosciutto, and pair it all with a glass of Franciacorta wine.

Franciacorta Wineries

Train: 36min to Brescia
Drive: 1h/80km

Wine production in Franciacorta goes back as far as the 16th century and this region is renowned for its wide range of sparkling wines. Their signature wine is Satèn (meaning Silk in the local language), a creamy white sparkling wine. They also make a Rosé sparkling wine which is much stronger and more structured.

Franciacorta wines are made from Chardonnay, Pinot Nero, and Pinot Bianco grapes, and range from dry to sweet. They are more intense than Prosecco with more floral and fruity scents and a hint of pastry.

Best wine tastings from Milan

I recommend this full-day wine tasting tour to sample some of their finest sparkling wines and take in the beautiful countryside of Lombardy while you learn about wine production and its history.

If you also want to visit Bergamo nearby, opt for this combined tour.

Parma

Train: 50min 
Drive: 128km/ 1h 42min

Parma is a gastronomic haven famed for its colorful streets, boutique shops, and obviously its food scene.

Prosciutto di Parma (Parma ham) and Parmigiano-Reggiano have a Protected Designation of Origin status (PDO) and you really should add them to your to-eat list.

Between meals on your Parma day trip be sure to explore the city’s rich history and architecture. The Cathedral, Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi and the Teatro Regio are particularly beautiful.

You’ll be very close to Modena, Bologna and Reggio Emilia so you might want to add them as a stop on your day trip to Parma.

Best tours of Parma

There are several direct trains departing from Milan, and I recommend taking a food tour once there to experience Parma as you’ll get to indulge in the best of the city’s food whilst learning about the history and production process of the dishes.

Reggio Emilia

Train: 1h
Drive: 155km / 2h

The charming town of Reggio Emilia offers a delightful blend of history, art, and culinary delights. Start by wandering through the town’s historic center, where you’ll find beautifully preserved medieval architecture, such as the magnificent Cathedral featuring a Roman mosaic and the ornate Basilica of San Prospero.

If you’re an art enthusiast, you’ll love the renowned Maramotti Collection, showcasing a selection of contemporary art masterpieces and founded by the fashion magnate Max Mara.

Best tours of Regio Emilia

This private tour to Reggio’s foodie hotspots is the perfect way to explore and includes visits to a dairy farm, vinegar factory and vineyards. You’ll get to enjoy tastings of some of the region’s most famous products including Parmigiano Reggiano, balsamic vinegar, and local wine.

Modena

Train: 1h 15min
Drive: 178km / 2h 12min

Modena is famed for its Balsamic vinegar and for producing some of the top sports cars in the world (think Lamborghini, Ferrari and Maserati). A Modena day trip is not all about condiments and racing cars though, as it’s an absolutely gorgeous city that deserves to be explored on its own merits.

The city is packed with interesting architecture, the UNESCO-listed Piazza Grande and some fantastic museums. If you’re a lover of art then be sure to check out the 18th Century Palace Museum which contains pieces by Tintoretto and Correggio and Bernini.

Best tours of Modena

Once you arrive to Modena try out one of these fantastic experiences like joining this walking tour or learning how to make balsamic vinegar.

Where to stay in Milan

For the most convenient and enjoyable stay in Milan, base yourself in the historic city center or the trendy Brera neighborhood.

Both offer central locations with easy access to numerous attractions, as well as a diverse array of restaurants and bars. If you’re traveling by train or hauling lots of luggage, it might be wise to stay near the central train station.

Related: Where to stay in Milan – best areas & accommodations

How many days in Milan?

Two or three days are the perfect amount of time to see Milan and its main attractions. Milan is also the perfect base if you’d like to do day trips to the surrounding area in which case you could consider extending your stay to 4 or even 7 days.

Getting to Milano

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.

Getting around Milan

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.

Best time to visit Milan

Milan dazzles no matter when you visit. For the best weather, spring and autumn are ideal, although be prepared for a bit of a crowd.

Winter, while less popular, transforms the city into a magical wonderland. Summer, especially August, is surprisingly quiet but can get scorching hot.

Related: Your guide to visiting Milan in winter