Top 21 BEST Day Trips from Milan (2023)

Milan is a great place to explore, with no shortage of fashion, architecture, history, and fabulous food.

But day trips from Milan can be even better!

If you want to get out of the city and explore what else northern Italy has to offer, then day trips are a great way to do that. From the stunning lakeside towns of Lake Como and Lake Garda to the lively cities of Cinque Terre and Verona, there are so many day trips near Milan that you could easily take.

Let’s look at some of the Top 21 Best Destinations for Day Trips from Milan!

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The Top 21 Best Day Trips from Milan

1. Lake Como

If I had to choose one, Lake Como is probably the best day trip from Milan to take.

This famous Italian lake is just an hour away from Milan, making it the perfect day getaway. Lake Como, also known as Lario, sits at the foot of the Swiss Alps and is Italy’s third-largest lake. The lake is shaped like an upside-down Y and spans over 29 miles in length.

The resort town of Bellagio is nestled at the foot of the lake and offers plenty of attractions, from botanical gardens to boat rides. On a day trip to Lake Como, you can explore the city center’s cobbled streets and marvel at its beautiful gardens while taking in panoramic views of the lake.

P.S. If beaches are your thing, there are tonnnnns of beaches near Milan that you can visit on a day trip. In fact, I wrote a whole list of them here!

You can easily get to Lake Como from Milan by train. There are several direct trains from the main train station, Milano Centrale, that run to Como San Giovanni Station. From there you can take a shuttle or taxi to your destination.

There are also a variety of guided tours that will take you to and from Lake Como from your hotel in Milan and will show you the sights around the lake. I recommend this if you are short on time and want to make the most of your day.

This Lake Como tour lasts about 9 hours and will take you to some of the best spots on the lake. You’ll dock at the picturesque town of Bellagio before taking a scenic boat cruise down Lake Como. You’ll also have time to shop, eat, and explore the city before heading back to your hotel in Milan.

From breathtaking panoramic views, to luxury villas and George Clooney’s home, Lake Como is one of the most popular destinations near Milan for a quick trip!

2. St Moritz

Forget about Milan’s humid summers and take a day trip to St Moritz for some winter fun! If you’re looking for a day trip from Milan that involves snow and skiing, this is the place to be.

This glamorous Swiss resort town is located in the Engadin valley of the Swiss Alps and is just 2 hours away from Milan by train. It’s one of the most popular ski destinations in Europe with stunning panoramic views of the alps and its glittering lakes.

At St Moritz, you can enjoy a day on the slopes with some amazing ski runs for both beginners and pros alike. The resort also offers plenty of other activities such as snowshoeing, sledding, and heli-skiing. After a day in the snow, you can relax in one of their many cozy restaurants and enjoy a delicious fondue.

The best way to get to St Moritz from Milan is by train or bus. There are direct trains from Milano Centrale station that will take you directly to the resort town. Once there, you can easily get around by cable car or bus.

You can also opt for a guided tour of St Moritz. This Bernina Express rail tour to St. Moritz is one of the coolest ways to see the Swiss Alps from a unique perspective. After a coach ride from Milan to Tirano, you’ll board the Bernina Express, a vintage red train that travels through the breathtaking landscape of the Swiss Alps.

The train will take you on a UNESCO-listed route and you’ll get the chance to admire some of Europe’s most beautiful scenery.

St Moritz is definitely one of the best day trips from Milan for those looking for an adventure. Whether you’re a skiing enthusiast or just want to enjoy the breathtaking views, St Moritz is sure to have something for everyone!

3. Bologna

Bologna is one of the oldest cities in Italy and a day trip here will take you to a world full of history, culture, and delicious food.

This historic city is renowned for its traditional cuisine, art galleries, beautiful architecture, and lively student culture. Bologna lies at the crossroads between Northern and Central Italy and is only an hour away from Milan by train or car.

You can find train tickets from Milan to Bologna on Omio – simply enter your dates and you’ll be able to compare departures and prices.

Once there, you can easily get around by bus or tram.

This vibrant university town offers plenty of attractions for day-trippers. You can take a walk down its medieval streets and explore the city’s many hidden secrets, watch the sunset from one of its famous terrace bars, or simply wander through its beautiful piazzas.

Bologna is also home to some of Italy’s most iconic dishes such as lasagna and tortellini, so be sure to try some of the local food while you’re here.

Apart from sightseeing, there are plenty of day trips that you can take from Bologna such as going on a day trip to Modena or exploring the cities in Emilia Romagna.

There really is something for everyone here! It’s an underrated city that’s perfect for day-trippers.

4. Brescia

If you’re looking for a day trip from Milan that will take you off the beaten path, then Brescia is the place to be. This charming town is located in Lombardy, just an hour away by train. It’s known for its Roman ruins, castles, churches, and breathtaking landscapes.

Brescia is a great day trip destination for those looking to explore some of Italy’s history and culture. The town has many interesting sights such as the Castle of Brescia, the Palazzo delle Logge, and the Santa Guilia Museum.

You can also take a day trip to one of the nearby lakes such as Lake Garda or Lake Iseo.

In terms of transportation, there are plenty of options for getting to Brescia from Milan. You can take a day train from Milano Centrale station or you can opt for a private day tour from Milan that will take you directly to the town.

Brescia is a smaller day trip destination, perfect for those looking to explore one of Italy’s most historic cities.

5. Bergamo

Are you looking for a day trip from Milan that will take you away from the hustle and bustle of the city? Then Bergamo is perfect for you.

This small town is located in Lombardy, just an hour away by train. It’s known for its cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, historic monuments and stunning landscapes.

Bergamo is located just along the Swiss border and is the perfect day trip destination for those looking to explore some of Italy’s most beautiful cities. You can take a day tour from Milan that will take you directly to Bergamo or you can opt for public transportation such as the regional train network, which will get you there in less than an hour.

This half-day tour includes a trip to both Brescia and Bergamo, so you can explore both cities in one day. It includes round-trip transportation from Milan in an air-conditioned van, and a complete tour of both cities with a knowledgeable guide.

Once there, be sure to explore the old town of Bergamo and take a stroll along its cobblestone streets. You can also visit some of the city’s most famous monuments such as the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore or the Palazzo della Ragione.

Some of the town’s other most famous attractions include Colleoni Chapel and the Piazza Vecchia Bergamo Alta.

6. Franciacorta

Wine lovers in Milan will definitely want to head to Franciacorta for a day trip. This stunning region is located in Lombardy and is just an hour away from Milan by car or train. It’s known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and beautiful lakeside towns.

Franciacorta is the place to be for an authentic Italian wine tour. Here, you can sample some of the region’s best wines and take a day tour of its most famous vineyards.

You can also explore one of the area’s many quaint villages or even take a day trip to Lake Iseo for some swimming or boating activities.

In terms of transportation, there are plenty of options for getting to Franciacorta from Milan. You can take a day train from Milano Centrale station or you can opt for a private day tour from Milan that will take you directly to the vineyards.

I recommend this small-group wine-tasting tour, which includes round-trip transportation from Milan and an eight-hour guided tour of Franciacorta’s wineries.

Franciacorta is a great day trip destination for anyone looking to take in some of Italy’s most stunning scenery and sample some of its best wines.

7. Varese

Varese is a tinyyyyy town located in Lombardy, just 90 minutes away by train from Milan. It’s known for its small-town charm and beautiful landscapes, making it the perfect day trip destination.

Varese is home to some of Italy’s most stunning lakeside towns and villages, including Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, and Lake Lugano. You can take a day tour from Milan that will take you directly to Varese or you can opt for public transportation such as the regional train network, which will get you there in less than an hour.

Once there, be sure to explore some of Varese’s most famous attractions such as the Sacro Monte di Varese. This UNESCO World Heritage Site consists of a series of chapels, each more beautiful than the last.

You can also wander around some of the town’s cobblestone streets, visit its many quaint cafes and take in some of its stunning views.

8. Asti

Asti is another small commune in the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy. It’s home to only about 80,000 inhabitants, but it’s the perfect day trip destination for anyone looking to get a taste of Italy’s most beautiful small towns.

It’s just an hour away from Milan by car or train, so you can easily make this day trip in one day if you leave early enough. You can search Omio for the best routes and prices for public transportation.

In Asti, you can explore some of its most famous attractions such as its medieval Cathedral, or take a day trip to the nearby village of Monferrato to sample some of their local wines.

It’s also worth visiting Piazza Alfieri for some delicious Italian cuisine and to take in some of Asti’s most beautiful architecture.

For day trips from Milan, Asti is a great option for anyone looking to get a real taste of Italian culture and small-town charm.

9. Piacenza

Piacenza is a small commune located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, just an hour and a half away from Milan. It’s known for its stunning architecture and its delicious Italian cuisine, making it the perfect day trip destination.

In Piacenza, you can explore some of its most famous attractions such as the Palazzo Farnese, take a day trip to one of its nearby villages such as Grazzano Visconti to sample some regional specialties, and explore some of its beautiful churches.

You can easily get to Piacenza from Milan by train or car. The fastest route is via car, which will take you just over an hour.

For day trips from Milan, Piacenza is a great option for anyone looking to explore some of Italy’s most stunning architecture.

It’s a less touristy destination than some of the others on this list, so you’ll get a more authentic Italian experience. I recommend taking time to wander around the old town and sample some of the delicious local food, like salame piacentino (spicy salami). Yum!

10. Genoa

Next up on the list of Milan day trips is Genoa, located on the northwest coast of Italy. It’s just a two-hour drive from Milan and an easy day trip destination for anyone looking to explore one of Italy’s most beautiful seaside towns.

In Genoa, you can visit some of its famous attractions such as the Royal Palace, or take a day trip to the nearby Cinque Terre for some stunning coastal views. But we’ll talk more about that later!

Some must-see Genoa attractions include the Piazza de Ferrari, a grand square in the center of the city commonly used for events.

The Aquarium of Genoa is located in a ship-shaped building and is also a popular tourist attraction here. The Cattedrale di San Lorenzo is a cathedral from the 110s decorated in frescoes and gold.

You can even take a day trip to nearby Santa Margherita Ligure to explore its charming promenade lined with colorful buildings!

Genoa is also a great day trip destination for anyone looking to sample some of Italy’s most delicious seafood dishes, such as the famous farinata di ceci (chickpea flour flatbread).

Plus, Genoa is one of the most convenient day trips from Milan as it’s just a two-hour drive away. So, if you’re looking for a day trip that won’t be too much of a hassle to get to, Genoa is definitely worth checking out.

11. Portofino

Portofino is one of the most scenic day trips from Milan, located in the Liguria region of Italy. It’s just a two-hour drive away and is known for its picturesque harbor, colorful buildings, and delicious seafood restaurants.

In Portofino, you can explore some of the area’s most popular attractions such as its harbor or Castello Brown. Portofino is a great option for anyone looking to take in some stunning coastal views and sample some delicious seafood dishes.

Foodies will have a ball here!

One of the best day trips from Milan to Portofino is by boat. You can take a day trip from Milano Marittima to explore some of its most beautiful coastal views. You can even go on a day cruise around the harbor and see some of the area’s most stunning sights!

This guided day trip tour to Genoa and Portofino is definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a day trip from Milan that won’t be too much of a hassle. Roundtrip transportation from Milan is included, and you’ll get to see both Genoa and Portofino.

12. Parma

Just thinking of the name Parma makes me think of Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano Reggiano! While these are two of the city’s most famous products, Parma also makes for a great day trip destination from Milan.

Located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, Parma is just a two-hour drive away from Milan. It’s known for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and of course, delicious food!

In Parma, you can explore some of the city’s famous attractions such as the Duomo di Parma (Cathedral of Parma) or Palazzo della Pilotta.

If you’re a fan of Italian opera, you can also visit the Teatro Regio di Parma and catch a performance.

And of course, no day trip to Parma would be complete without trying some of its famous delicacies like Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano Reggiano. There are plenty of restaurants in the city where you can sample these dishes and explore some of the city’s most delicious cuisine.

13. Lugano and Bellagio

If you’re looking for day trips from Milan to a nearby country, Lugano and Bellagio are definitely worth considering. Located in the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland, these two cities are just a two-hour drive away from Milan.

A day trip here is a cool way to visit two countries at the same time while visiting Milan!

In Lugano, you can explore some of the city’s most popular attractions such as the Church of San Lorenzo and Lake Lugano. You can even take a day trip to Bellagio, located at the tip of Lake Como. The lakeside city of Bellagio is known for its stunning views and quaint cobblestoned streets.

It’s a great day trip from Milan if you’re looking to explore some of Italy’s most beautiful landscapes.

Lugano is known as Switzerland’s “Little Italy” and is an eclectic mix of both Swiss and Italian culture. It’s a great day trip destination to explore some of the region’s best culinary delights and see some of its most stunning views.

So, if you’re looking for day trips from Milan that will allow you to explore a different country, Lugano and Bellagio are definitely worth considering!

This full-day tour will take you to Lake Como, Lugano, and Bellagio – all in one day. It’s the best way to get a glimpse of all three cities in one day! Plus, you’ll get to sample some delicious Swiss and Italian cuisine along the way.

14. Lake Maggiore & the Borromean Islands

The second largest lake in Italy and the largest lake in Southern Switzerland, Lake Maggiore is definitely worth considering if you’re looking for day trips from Milan outside in nature. Located just a two-hour drive away, Lake Maggiore offers breathtaking views and plenty of activities to explore.

You can take a day trip to the Borromean Islands – Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Madre – which are located on the lake. A day trip here is a great way to escape from the chaos of the city and explore some of Italy’s most beautiful nature scenes.

On Isola Bella, you can explore Palazzo Borromeo – an 18th-century palace that is filled with stunning art and sculptures. On Isola dei Pescatori, you can enjoy some delicious seafood dishes in one of the city’s quaint restaurants.

And on Isola Madre, you can explore its botanical gardens full of rare plants and flowers.

Plus, if you’re a fan of water sports, Lake Maggiore also offers plenty of activities like kayaking, sailing, and more. It’s the perfect day trip destination for those looking to explore some of Italy’s most beautiful nature scenes!

This guided tour will take you to all the Borromean Islands and the amazing Lake Maggiore. You’ll explore the chic town of Stesa, then hop on a boat for a cruise of Lake Maggiore. Explore all the Borromean Islands have to offer before heading back to your hotel in Milan.

15. Lake Garda

Lake Garda is a popular vacation destination for those looking for a day trip from Milan. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest lake in Italy and one of the most beautiful spots to explore.

From the lakeside towns of Desenzano del Garda, Peschiera del Garda, and Bardolino, to the stunning scenery, there’s something for all types of travelers here.

You can explore some of the lake’s beautiful cities such as Sirmione and Desenzano Del Garda which offer stunning views, plenty of restaurants and cafes, and lots of shopping opportunities.

You can also enjoy some of the lake’s activities such as kayaking, fishing, and sailing.

If you’re looking for day trips from Milan that are full of adventure, Lake Garda is definitely worth considering. It’s a great day trip destination to explore some of Italy’s best food, scenery, and culture.

16. Verona

For a blast from the past, let’s head to Verona.

You may recognize Verona as the setting of William Shakespeare’s classic play, Romeo and Juliet. Located just a two-hour drive away, Verona is known for its old churches, Roman ruins, and cobblestoned streets.

You can easily get here by train, or take a guided tour of Verona from Milan which includes transportation and a complete tour of the city.

Verona is definitely one of the most romantic day trips from Milan and should be added to your list for sure! You’ll get to explore some of Italy’s old cities, enjoy some delicious food, and take in all the beauty that Verona has to offer.

Verona also offers plenty of shopping opportunities with its many boutiques and markets. Plus, you can explore some of the city’s culinary delights like truffles and cheese.

Some of the best attractions in Verona include sights like the Verona Arena, a huge Roman amphitheater known for holding operas and other events. Piazza delle Erbe is the city’s main square filled with eateries, boutiques, and more.

You can even visit Juliet’s house and see the balcony where Romeo and Juliet had their famous conversation.

What better day trip to take from Milan than a romantic day in Verona?

If you’re looking for day trips from Milan with a little bit of history, romance, and culture then Verona is definitely the one for you!

17. Venice

Speaking of romantic destinations in Italy, Venice is definitely worth considering! Venice is located just about three hours away by car, or you can take a guided tour that includes transportation and a complete tour of the city.

Venice is known for its winding canals, iconic gondolas, and romantic atmosphere. You can explore some of the city’s stunning attractions such as St. Mark’s Square, the Grand Canal, and Doge’s Palace.

You can also explore some of Venice’s hidden gems like the Jewish Ghetto and Cannaregio which are filled with plenty of restaurants and cafes.

You can even take a day trip to Murano Island which is famous for its glass-making and jewelry. Once you’re done exploring the city, put your feet up and enjoy the breathtaking sunset views of Venice from a gondola ride!

I highly highly recommend staying more than just a day in Venice. There’s so much to see in the city and its surroundings that I really think that you need at least three days here to really take it all in.

Venice is much better for a weekend trip from Milan in my opinion.

But if you really only have one day, I recommend hopping on a guided tour of Venice. This way, all transportation to and from Milan is sorted, and you can enjoy the day with a knowledgeable tour guide who can show you all of the best sites in Venice.

18. Interlaken & the Swiss Alps

If you’ve spent any time reading my blog, you’ll know how much I love the Swiss town of Interlaken.

Interlaken sits in the breathtaking Swiss Alps with stunning views of the mountains and lakes. You can explore some of the nearby attractions such as Jungfraujoch or Schilthorn, which are both great day trips from Milan.

You can also explore the nearby towns of Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, and Murren which offer some amazing day hikes and outdoor activities.

If you’re looking for an adventure day trip from Milan, Interlaken is definitely the place to go! You can take a day tour from Milan which includes transportation, a guided day hike in the Swiss Alps, and a traditional Swiss lunch.

Like Venice, I really recommend extending your trip and staying a few days in Interlaken. It’s a small town, but it’s so stunning with so much to see that it really is better to spend more than just a day here.

Plus, then you’ll have time to take part in some of Interlaken’s adventure activities like paragliding or kayaking!

I even have a complete guide on all the best things to do in Interlaken, as well as a complete guide to visiting Interlaken on a budget. Check those out for some inspiration!

Related: Grindelwald vs Interlaken: Which Swiss city is better?

19. Florence

One of the most popular Italian destinations (and certainly the most beautiful) is Florence. Just three hours away by car, Florence is the perfect day trip from Milan!

Florence is full of culture and history, so you can spend your day exploring some of its iconic attractions like Piazza della Signoria, the Duomo di Firenze (Florence’s Cathedral), Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio.

You can also explore some of Florence’s hidden gems like the San Marco Square or the Boboli Gardens. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in Florence where you can enjoy a traditional Italian meal or sample the city’s famous gelato!

If you’re looking for day trips from Milan that offer a cultural experience, Florence is definitely worth considering!

However, as with both Venice and Interlaken, I highly recommend extending your trip to Florence.

After all, you can’t really explore the culture of this amazing city in just one day – you need at least two (or three!) to fully appreciate it.

Plus, there are plenty of day trips from Florence to nearby cities like Siena or Pisa that you won’t want to miss!

This day trip to Florence from Milan by train is a great option if you’re looking for convenience and affordability. You’ll hop on a high-speed train and arrive in Florence in just over three hours – perfect for a day trip!

20. Turin

Turin, the capital of Piedmont, is a great day trip from Milan. It’s only about two hours away by car and it’s perfect for those who want to explore more than just cities during their day trips.

Turin isn’t known for its tourist attractions but rather for its natural surroundings: mountains, lakes, and rivers. You can explore the nearby city of Ivrea, famous for its orange carnival, or take day hikes in the Italian Alps.

Plus, Turin is known for its extensive selection of chocolate and ice cream shops – so don’t forget to indulge yourself while you’re there!

If you’re looking for day trips from Milan that will give you a break from the hustle and bustle of big cities, Turin is just the place! There are plenty of day tours from Milan to Turin that will take you around the city and its surrounding countryside.

This tour in particular offers a day of sightseeing and eating in Turin.

Plus, because it’s so close to Milan, you can also do a day trip to Turin on your own! Just rent a car for the day or take a train and explore what this beautiful region of Italy has to offer.

21. Cinque Terre

Last but certainly not least is Cinque Terre, one of Italy’s most beautiful destinations.

This day trip will take you to the stunning coastal towns of Manarola, Riomaggiore, Vernazza and Corniglia – all connected by hiking trails and breathtaking views.

During this day trip, you’ll be able to explore the towns on foot, take a boat ride along the coast, and sample delicious seafood dishes.

Cinque Terre day trips from Milan are easy to find – just search around for one that suits your needs! There are day tours or day trips you can do on your own if you prefer a more independent experience.

This Cinque Terre tour includes a scenic bus ride along the coast and a day of exploring the beautiful towns. You’ll take a boat trip from Monterosso to La Spezia, then have time to explore the villages before heading back to Milan.

If you’re looking for day trips from Milan that allow you to experience some of Italy’s best scenery and towns, Cinque Terre is the place to be!

Where to stay in Milan

Browse through over 100 hotels in Milan here

Thanks for Reading!

So if you’re looking for some stunning day trips from Milan, I hope these suggestions will help you out.

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Whether it’s culture, nature, or delicious food that you’re after, there’s something for everyone in this list of day trips from Milan. Don’t forget your camera and your walking shoes!

Happy exploring! x

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