10 Best day trips from Milan by train

Milan isn’t just an amazing city—it’s also the perfect base for exploring some of northern Italy’s most beautiful places.

As a Milan local with a full-time job, I’ve become a pro at squeezing the most out of my days off. I’ve taken so many day trips over the years and whenever I get the chance, I hop on a train to escape the city’s hustle and see a different side of Italy.

If you’re into food, Bologna’s a must with its incredible local flavors. Love nature? The Alps or Lake Como are unbeatable for fresh air and stunning views. Or, if you’re after classic Italian highlights, Venice, Verona and Florence are all within a day’s reach!

In this guide, I’ll share my ten favorite day trips from Milan. Each one can be reached by train or car, though I prefer the train whenever possible—it’s usually faster and cheaper than renting a car.

1. Lake Como

Distance from Milan: 1 hour by direct train or by car

Lake Como is all about that dolce vita charm and makes for the perfect day trip from Milan if you’re after picture-perfect towns, dreamy villas and some truly incredible views! 

Como itself is lovely but if you only have one day, I’d definitely focus on the Golden Triangle: Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio. And, of course, visit one of those iconic lakeside villas.

No need to splurge on a private boat—the public ferry is all you need! It connects the main towns and offers gorgeous lake views at a fraction of the price.

When it comes to villas, Villa Balbianello near Lenno is my absolute favorite. Honestly, this place is Lake Como perfection. You might even recognize it from Star Wars and 007 Casino Royale—it’s as much a star as the lake itself! 

With terraced gardens and views that feel straight out of a fairytale, it’s totally worth the visit. But if you’re already in Varenna and don’t have time to reach Villa Balbianello, Villa Monastero is a gem too, with dreamy gardens perfect for an afternoon stroll.

If you still have time, Como is a lovely addition to the day trip, especially with the funicolare up to Brunate for sweeping lake panoramas, don’t forget your camera!

🚊 How to get from Milan to Lake Como

Take the 1-hour train from Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino—there are usually departures every hour. After exploring Varenna, you can hop on the ferry that connects the various towns on the lake. 

Driving is an option too, but keep in mind that the road between Lake Como and Milan can get very busy on weekends, so plan for extra time if you’re driving back on Sunday or Saturday evenings. I’ve had it take 2 hours instead of 1 more times than I can count!

2. Venice

Distance from Milan: 2.5 hours by direct train or 3 hours by car

I don’t think I need to convince you that Venice is worth a trip if you’ve never been—everyone knows it’s pure magic! 

Venice has an allure that’s hard to beat, and while I usually recommend spending two or three days there, a well-planned day trip is still unforgettable. I’ve done plenty of day trips to Venice from Milan myself, and they never disappoint!

With just one day, focus on the main highlights and if you have time, squeeze in a quick visit to another island or a museum. 

Start with the iconic Rialto Bridge for that classic Venice moment, then head to St. Mark’s Square, where you’ll find the stunning Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Don’t miss the Bridge of Sighs—this covered bridge connects the palace to the prisons, where convicted prisoners once took their last glimpse of Venice and sighed before entering their cells.

If you’re an art lover, you absolutely must visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection (a modern art treasure) or the Biennale, held every two years and one of the world’s top contemporary art festivals. Both are well worth a stop if you have the time!

If museums aren’t on your list, hop on a boat to Burano or Murano. Burano’s brightly colored houses are postcard-perfect (in my opinion it’s one of the most picturesque scenes in Italy) while Murano is famous for its glass-making workshops. Watching artisans at work is a treat, believe me!

In the late afternoon, try one of Venice’s food traditions: a bacaro tour. It’s basically Venice’s version of bar-hopping. A bacaro is a small bar where you can grab a cicchetto (small bite) and a glass of wine, and people usually stop at several in an evening. One of my all time favorite spots is Cà D’oro alla Vedova, great food and lovely location with old vibes… it kind of reminds me of an italian grandma’s living room!

🚊 How to get from Milan to Venice

Take the direct train from Milano Centrale to Venezia S. Lucia—it’s a 2.5-hour ride, and trains run frequently. Once you arrive, you’ll step right out by the Grand Canal, ready to dive into Venice’s wonders from the moment you step off the train! 

If you’re planning a day trip, I’d skip driving as it’s a long journey (about 3 hours each way) and Venice is all about walking—trust me, you’ll appreciate the ease of the train by evening!

3. Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore

Distance from Milan: 1.5 hour by direct train or 1h 10m by car

The Isole Borromee are five beautiful islands on Lake Maggiore and to be honest, it’s one of the most beautiful day trips you can take from Milan! I especially love visiting in spring, when the gardens are in full bloom and everything feels extra magical.

There are five islands in total but only Isola Madre, Isola Bella, and Isola dei Pescatori are open to visitors. They are all owned by the noble Borromeo family except for Isola dei Pescatori. 

Each island has its own unique charm:

• Isola Bella is home to Palazzo Borromeo, a Baroque masterpiece with stunning Italian-style gardens spread over ten terraces that overlook the lake. It feels straight out of a fairytale! I love the view you get from the ferry over the terraces, it’s incredible.
• Isola Madre is famous for its lush botanical gardens and free-roaming peacocks. You’ll love it here if you love nature. 
• Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s Island) is the only inhabited island, with narrow streets, historic houses, and a quaint village vibe that makes it perfect for an afternoon stroll. There are plenty of restaurants here where you can take a break and enjoy fresh fish by the lake.

The islands are easily connected by battelli (ferries) throughout the day, so you can visit all three in one trip without problems. 

🚊 How to get from Milan to Lake Maggiore

You will first have to reach Stresa. The fastest way is by car, it takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes, but last time we went there was a lot of traffic and parking was a bit of a nightmare so I’d recommend taking the train if you want an easy, stress-free day trip.

There’s a direct train from Milano Porta Garibaldi to Stresa that only takes 1.5 hours. From the train station, it’s just a 10-minute walk to Piazza Marconi, where you’ll find the boats that take you to the islands.

Last time we went, parking was a bit of a nightmare, so I’d recommend taking the train if you want an easy, stress-free day trip.

You can purchase a Hop-On Hop-Off boat ticket and use it to move around, but you’ll still have to buy tickets for the islands themselves on the official website.

4. Florence

Distance from Milan: 2 hours by direct train or 3.5 hours by car

Florence is one of those cities that takes your breath away with every step, every single time you visit. It’ll be a long day if you visit as a day trip, but it’s worth it if you’re tight on time with your Italian trip!

Start your day in Piazza Duomo, where you’ll find both the Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) and the Battistero.

The highlight here is the Cupola del Brunelleschi—just remember to buy your ticket in advance since same-day tickets are nearly impossible to find. It’s really impressive, it was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi in 1418 and it’s still the largest brick dome in the world! 
There’s also the Museo del Duomo nearby, but I’d skip it to have more time to explore the city.

After Piazza Duomo, wander through the medieval streets until you reach Piazza della Signoria, where you’ll find the city’s town hall, Palazzo Vecchio. Definitely take some time to get lost in the side streets here—they’re full of charm! 

Next to Palazzo Vecchio, you’ll spot the Loggia dei Lanzi, a covered space filled with Renaissance statues, some originals, some copies, my favorite is The Rape of the Sabine Women by Giambologna.

If you’re into art, don’t miss the Galleria degli Uffizi—one of the most beautiful and fascinating museums in Italy, in my opinion. 

You’ll see Botticelli’s Primavera and The Birth of Venus, Titian’s Venus of Urbino, Caravaggio’s Medusa, and Leonardo da Vinci’s Annunciation, plus so many more masterpieces. 

It’s an experience you won’t forget, I promise.

As an alternative, you can check out the Galleria dell’Accademia (Accademia Gallery) to see Michelangelo’s David. Personally, I prefer the Uffizi, especially if it’s your first visit to Florence! Either way, definitely book ahead—I once missed out on both because they were sold out and I had forgotten to book!

Afterward, head to the Ponte Vecchio, a 14th-century covered bridge originally built as a market bridge, where you’ll find all kinds of shops. For photos, it’s even more beautiful from the outside, with the river below.

For lunch, check out the Mercato di San Lorenzo—the central part is covered, and the local food is fantastic! 

And if you’re still around near sunset, head to Piazzale Michelangelo for a panoramic view over the city, the Duomo, and the Ponte Vecchio. You can even enjoy an aperitivo there, it’s absolutely spectacular and my favorite way to end a day in Florence!

🚊 How to get from Milan to Florence

I absolutely recommend taking the train. It takes less than 2 hours each way, while driving would easily take double the time. Just take the direct train from Milan Centrale to Firenze Santa Maria Novella, and from there, it’s a nice 10-minute walk to Piazza Duomo.

5. Bologna

Distance from Milan: 1 hour by direct train or 2.5 hours by car

Bologna is a city that truly has it all: history, charm, and some of the best food in Italy!

Known as La Rossa for its iconic red buildings and terracotta rooftops, Bologna is also home to the world’s oldest university, making it a hub of knowledge and culture for centuries. 

It has also become a recent favorite for tourists from all over the world—and for good reason!

Start your day in Piazza Maggiore, the city’s main square surrounded by stunning historical buildings, and don’t miss the Fontana del Nettuno in the adjacent piazza. Then, climb the Asinelli Tower for an amazing view over the city. 

Stroll through the Quadrilatero, Bologna’s lively food district, and wander under the countless porticoes that have earned the city UNESCO heritage status.

No trip to Bologna would be complete without diving into the local cuisine! You can’t leave without trying tortellini in brodo—small, ring-shaped pasta filled with pork or prosciutto and cheese, served in a warm broth. Absolutely a must-try.

And if you’re a food lover, why not take a cooking class? It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in Bologna’s food culture and bring a taste of Italy home with you.
I recommend this one. Le Cesarine always offer amazing cooking classes and food experiences.

🚊 How to get from Milan to Bologna

The best way to get to Bologna is by direct train from Milano Centrale to Bologna Centrale. It only takes an hour and is by far the fastest option! Driving would take about 2.5 hours without traffic, so if you’re planning a day trip, I’d definitely recommend sticking with the train.

6. The Alps

Distance from Milan: around 2.5 hours by car but can also be reached by train or with guided tours

If you’re craving a break from Milan’s cityscape and want some epic mountain scenery, the Alps are just a couple of hours away and honestly, few places in the world beat them! 

I love nature, hiking with my dog, skiing, and landscape photography, and the Alps are perfect for all of it. If you have similar tastes, the Alps will be your dream come true, I promise.

While I think they deserve a few days to fully appreciate, a day trip is definitely doable and way better than nothing! It’s also a great escape if Milan’s feeling a bit too gray in winter or way too hot and humid in summer.

You have two options:

Bernina Express train

It’s a bright red train that takes you from Tirano (Italy) up to St. Moritz (Switzerland) on one of the most epic train rides ever. It’s the highest railway in the Alps at 2,256 meters and a UNESCO World Heritage route, passing glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and charming little villages.

The best way to do it as a day trip from Milan is by booking a tour:

Day hikes (summer) or skiing (winter)

This is the only day trip where you’ll need a car, but I wanted to mention it in case you can rent one. If you don’t have a car in Milan, choose the Bernina Express, you won’t regret it!

Here are my top three spots, all within 2.5 hours from Milan and perfect for hiking and skiing, whether you’re a beginner or an expert:

• Cervinia
  Located at the foot of the Matterhorn, this is one of the most prestigious ski resorts in the Alps. You can even ski across the border into Zermatt, Switzerland, for a two-country adventure! In summer, I’d recommend hiking in Valtournenche and stopping by Lago Blu for some epic views.
• Monte Rosa
  In winter, you’ll find over 180 km of slopes across the beautiful valleys of Alagna, Gressoney, and Champoluc.
  In summer, it’s a hiker’s paradise. If you’re an experienced alpinist, consider hiking up to Capanna Margherita, the highest building in Europe. It’s quite the challenge, so I’d recommend hiring a guide, but the views are absolutely unforgettable.
  For my vegan and vegetarian friends, check out Orestes Hütte, a sustainable alpine hut that serves amazing vegan food. You can even spend the night there if you’d like!
• Courmayeur
  Nestled right at the base of Mont Blanc, Courmayeur is perfect for great slopes and a lively après-ski scene. For some relaxation, book a spa session at QC Terme Monte Bianco—one of the most beautiful spas in Italy, in my opinion. You can soak in hot pools while admiring the mountain and if it’s snowing in winter, it’s pure magic!

🚊 How to get from Milan to the Alps

If you decide to take the Bernina Express, you can reach Tirano from Milan either by train or by car (about 2.5 hours). Personally, I’d recommend booking a guided tour—it’s perfect for a day trip as they’ll bring you straight back to Milan from St. Moritz in the evening, saving you the return trip to Tirano and the extra journey back to Milan after a very long day.

If you’re planning to go skiing or hiking, renting a car is your best option—it’s easier, faster, and gives you more flexibility. The drive takes about 2.5 hours each way, so it’ll be a long day, but totally worth it!

7. Verona

Distance from Milan: 1h 15m by direct train or 1h 50m by car

Verona is the perfect blend of romance, history, and Italian charm. If you’re in the mood for a romantic day trip and want a break from Milan, Verona is an ideal choice.

Start your day in Piazza Bra with the Arena di Verona, an ancient Roman amphitheater, it’s even older than the Colosseum! 
It’s a fantastic place to see an opera or concert (I’m still dreaming about the Adele concert I saw here a few years ago…), but if you’re doing this as a day trip from Milan, you may need to save that for another time.

After checking out the Arena, head to Castelvecchio and its impressive bridge. This medieval fortress is a gem and one of my favorite spots in town. You’ll get amazing views over the river, and it’s a beautiful walk through history.

Then, keep walking over to Piazza Erbe, Verona’s busy market square. It’s the perfect spot to grab a snack and an espresso.

No trip to Verona is complete without mentioning Romeo and Juliet, and you might be wondering, “Is it worth visiting Juliet’s House?” so here’s my honest take.

Is it really her house? Nope.
Romeo and Juliet are fictional characters, and the balcony was added in the 20th century, long after Shakespeare’s time.

Would I still visit? Probably, yes!
The building and balcony have their own charm, but be prepared for crowds and keep expectations in check. It has its touristy quirks, like the entryway covered in sticky notes for love messages and the tradition of touching Juliet’s statue’s breast for good luck (I find it cringe, but there you go!)

The place itself is lovely though. You just need a bit of imagination to see it as the setting for Shakespeare’s play. You can purchase tickets in advance here.

Afterward, cross the river to the Roman Theatre for amazing city views and fewer crowds. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, with a peaceful vibe and great views—definitely worth it.

Wrap up your day where you started, enjoying an aperitivo in Piazza Bra with the Arena as your backdrop!

🚊 How to get from Milan to Verona

Take the direct train from Milano Centrale to Verona Porta Nuova, it only takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. From there, you can either enjoy a 20-minute walk or take a bus for a couple of stops to Piazza Bra. I’ve never done a day trip to Verona by car because it takes much longer and is usually more expensive than the train.

8. Bergamo

Distance from Milan: 50 minutes by direct train or by car

I love Bergamo! It’s such a charming city and feels so different from Milan.

The historic medieval center is called Città Alta (Upper Town) because it’s right on a hilltop, surrounded by ancient walls that are actually a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can reach it by funicular, which is a fun ride with amazing panoramic views along the way.

Once you’re up there, start your day in Piazza Vecchia, the most important square surrounded by Renaissance buildings. Here, you’ll find Palazzo della Ragione (they usually have fantastic art exhibitions) and Torre Civica, which you can climb to admire the view over the old city rooftops. Close by, you’ll also find the beautiful Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and Cappella Colleoni—both are stunning.

My favorite thing to do in Bergamo is actually just wandering through the narrow streets. It’s so magical! There are plenty of small shops, cafes, and restaurants. I’m sure you’ll fall in love with it too.

The lower part of the city, called Città Bassa (Lower Town), is more modern and where most people actually live. The train station is here, so you’ll pass by but I recommend spending most of your time in the Città Alta.

🚊 How to get from Milan to Bergamo

It’s super easy to get to Bergamo! There are plenty of cheap, direct trains from Milan (6€ each way) but you could also drive there if you prefer. Just keep in mind that parking in Città Alta can be tricky, so it’s best to park in the lower part of the city and take the funicular up.

9. Pavia

Distance from Milan: 20 minutes direct train or 40 minutes by car

Pavia is a charming city set along the banks of the Ticino River, with deep roots in Italian history: it has one of the oldest universities and a lovely medieval center.

Start your visit in Piazza della Vittoria. There are plenty of bars and restaurants, have a coffee and soak up the historic atmosphere.

Just nearby, don’t miss the Ponte Coperto, the city’s iconic covered bridge. It’s a reconstruction of the original medieval bridge that was damaged in WWII, but it still has a timeless charm. It’s one of the most scenic spots in the city and it’s loved by locals. I used to spend lots of Saturday afternoons strolling around here when I was in high school!

Then, wander down Pavia’s main street, Strada Nuova, and check out some of the city’s landmarks: the Visconti Castle, the Duomo, and the three medieval towers in Piazza Leonardo da Vinci, which will give you a real taste of Pavia’s history.

Just outside the city, the Certosa di Pavia is a must-see and a personal favorite. It’s a Carthusian monastery and a masterpiece of Lombard Renaissance architecture, originally built as a private chapel and mausoleum for the Visconti family. The marble facade is jaw-dropping, with intricate details that could keep you staring for ages. If you speak Italian, join a guided tour led by one of the monks who still live there—it’s totally worth it!

If you love cycling, you can also rent a bike in Milan and cycle all the way to Pavia! It’s a beautiful 30 km route that follows the Navigli canals. You’ll pass by the Certosa di Pavia on your way, and if you’re too tired to pedal back, you can pay a small extra fee to bring your bike on the train for an easy return.

Before heading back to Milan, consider dinner at Circolo Impatto Zero. I’m vegan, and this is my absolute favorite vegan restaurant in northern Italy. It’s not a fancy place—it’s a cultural club that promotes an anti-speciesist and vegan lifestyle—but I promise, the food is amazing, and you’ll often find typical Italian dishes in vegan versions.

Pavia is one of those places that often gets overlooked by tourists, but it’s so close to Milan and full of surprises. It’s perfect for a day trip!

🚊 How to get from Milan to Pavia

There’s a direct train from Rogoredo station that reaches Pavia in just 20 minutes, with departures every 30 minutes. You can get to Rogoredo in under 10 minutes from Milan Duomo on the metro (M3 yellow line). It only costs €4.40 each way, and the train even stops at Certosa di Pavia, so there’s really no need to rent a car!

10. Turin

Distance from Milan: 1 hour by direct train or 2 hours by car

Turin (Torino) is a total gem—royal vibes, rich history, and chocolate that’ll make you swoon!

I always joke with a friend from Turin about whether Milan or Turin is better (I have to defend my hometown, of course), but deep down I know Turin is sooo beautiful and elegant. It even used to be Italy’s capital and you can really feel the grandeur and importance it once held.

Start your day with the Palazzo Reale di Torino (Royal Palace of Turin) in Piazza Castello. This 16th-century palace was home to the House of Savoy, and it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The interior is impressive, but don’t skip a stroll through the lovely Royal Gardens too while you’re there.

Take a walk down Via Roma if you’re in the mood for shopping, and enjoy Torino’s elegant porticoes.

Another highlight you can’t miss is the Museo Egizio (Egyptian Museum). It’s one of the most important Egyptian collections outside of Egypt and the oldest, founded in 1824. You could easily spend hours here—it’s fascinating!

Visiting the Egyptian Museum is one of my favorite things to do in the city and it’s great for kids too! I used to come here all the time with my grandparents and cousins, and we all loved it.

Now, let’s talk about chocolate.

Turin is serious about it, and if you’re here in autumn or winter, do yourself a favor and get a hot chocolate in one of the cozy cafés. Guido Gobino is my absolute favorite. Their hot chocolate is pure heaven and a box of chocolates makes the perfect souvenir to bring home! (I’m basically addicted to chocolate, so trust me on this one)

Make some time for Piazza San Carlo too. It’s one of Turin’s prettiest squares, surrounded by some of the city’s oldest and most charming cafés. Stop for an aperitivo at Caffè Torino or Caffè San Carlo.

Finally, head over to the Mole Antonelliana, Turin’s symbol. If you’re visiting on a clear day, taking the elevator up is so worth it! You’ll get an incredible view of the city and the Alp. Inside, you’ll also find the National Museum of Cinema. It’s interesting, but if you only have one day in Torino, I’d keep it short here and prioritize the Egyptian Museum instead.

🚊 How to get from Milan to Turin

The easiest and fastest way is to take a direct train from Milano Centrale to Torino Porta Nuova. It only takes an hour, which is about half the time it would take to drive, and the station is right in the city center so you’ll be ready to explore as soon as you arrive!

So, which is the best day trip from Milan?

It all depends on what you’re in the mood for!

If you’re looking to relax, a day by the lake is always a good idea. Lake Como is a classic, but if you’ve already visited, Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands are another fantastic option and a personal favorite.

For food lovers, Bologna is a dream come true, while those interested in history will love exploring Verona, Bergamo, Turin, and Pavia.

And if you’re up for an adventure and love nature, you can’t go wrong with the Alps! If you’re visiting Milan during winter, amazing ski slopes are just a couple of hours away.

All are amazing options, and wherever you decide to go, you’ll be stepping into a new Italian experience in no time. Don’t forget Milan is also absolutely worth visiting, so spend some time there too. If you’re tight on time, don’t worry, you can even visit Milan in 24 hours.

Have fun! ✨

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