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Milan, the fashion and financial capital of Italy, serves as an excellent base for exploring Northern Italy. Its strategic location and well-connected transport system make it easy to embark on various day trips, each offering a unique glimpse into the region’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage. Let’s explore some of the most rewarding day trips you can take from Milan.
Perhaps the most popular day trip from Milan, Lake Como is a mere hour away by train. This Y-shaped lake, surrounded by mountains and dotted with picturesque towns, has been a retreat for aristocrats and wealthy individuals since Roman times.
Start your day in the town of Como, where you can visit the Gothic-Renaissance Duomo and take the funicular up to Brunate for panoramic views. Then, hop on a ferry to explore charming lakeside towns. Bellagio, known as the “Pearl of Lake Como,” is famous for its cobblestone lanes and elegant villas. Varenna, with its colorful houses and romantic promenade, offers a quieter alternative.
For a taste of luxury, visit Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo, known for its beautiful botanical gardens and art collection. Film buffs might recognize Villa del Balbianello in Lenno, which has served as a setting for several Hollywood movies.
Just 50 minutes by train from Milan, Bergamo is often overlooked but well worth a visit. The city is divided into two parts: the medieval Città Alta (Upper Town) and the modern Città Bassa (Lower Town).
Take the funicular up to Città Alta, enclosed by Venetian walls, and wander through its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance streets. Visit the Piazza Vecchia, the heart of the old town, and climb the Campanone (civic tower) for sweeping views. Art enthusiasts should not miss the Accademia Carrara, one of Italy’s finest art galleries, showcasing works by Botticelli, Raphael, and Canaletto.
Before leaving, try some local specialties like casoncelli (stuffed pasta) and polenta e osei (a sweet polenta cake).
While slightly further than Lake Como, Lake Maggiore offers equally stunning scenery with a more relaxed atmosphere. Take a train to Stresa, the main resort town on the lake’s western shore.
From Stresa, take a boat to the Borromean Islands. Isola Bella is home to the opulent Borromeo Palace and its extravagant Italian-style gardens. Isola Madre, the largest island, is known for its English-style gardens and exotic plants. For a more laid-back experience, visit Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s Island), the only inhabited island, known for its charming fishing village and excellent seafood restaurants.
Verona, The city of Romeo and Juliet is just over an hour away from Milan by high-speed train. Start your visit at the remarkably well-preserved Arena, a Roman amphitheater that still hosts opera performances. Then, wander through the charming streets to Piazza delle Erbe, the town’s historic heart.
Don’t miss Juliet’s House, with its famous balcony, even if it’s more a case of clever marketing than historical accuracy. For a less crowded romantic spot, visit the Giardino Giusti, a beautiful Renaissance garden.
Climb the Torre dei Lamberti for panoramic views of the city, and if time permits, cross the Ponte Pietra to visit the Roman Theatre and Archaeological Museum.
The first capital of unified Italy, Turin is less than an hour from Milan by high-speed train. This elegant city is known for its Baroque architecture, historic cafes, and world-class museums.
Start at the Mole Antonelliana, Turin’s iconic landmark, which houses the National Museum of Cinema. Art lovers should visit the Egyptian Museum, second only to the one in Cairo in its collection of Egyptian artifacts.
Stroll through the grand Piazza Castello, home to the Royal Palace and Palazzo Madama. Then, indulge in Turin’s café culture at historic establishments like Caffè Al Bicerin, where you can try the city’s signature bicerin, a layered drink of coffee, chocolate, and cream.
While it makes for a long day, visiting the Cinque Terre from Milan is possible and rewarding for those short on time. These five colorful fishing villages, clinging to the rugged Ligurian coast, offer some of Italy’s most iconic views.
Take an early train to Monterosso al Mare, the northernmost village. From there, you can hike between villages (if trails are open) or use the local train to visit Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Each village has its own charm, from Vernazza’s natural harbor to Manarola’s famous vineyard-covered hills.
Be sure to try some local specialties like pesto, focaccia, and the sweet Sciacchetrà wine.
Wine enthusiasts should consider a day trip to Franciacorta, Italy’s answer to Champagne. This wine region, less than an hour from Milan, is known for its high-quality sparkling wines made using the traditional method.
Visit wineries like Berlucchi, Ca’ del Bosco, or Bellavista for tours and tastings. The area also offers beautiful landscapes, medieval castles, and nature reserves around Lake Iseo.
Just 30 minutes south of Milan, Pavia offers a mix of history, art, and spirituality. Once the capital of the Lombard Kingdom, it’s home to one of Europe’s oldest universities.
Visit the Visconti Castle, which houses the Civic Museums, and the Romanesque Basilica of San Michele Maggiore. Don’t miss the Certosa di Pavia, a magnificent monastery combining Gothic and Renaissance styles, located a short bus ride from the city center.
1. Buy train tickets in advance, especially for popular destinations like Lake Como or Cinque Terre.
2. Start early to make the most of your day, especially for further destinations.
3. Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly, especially for lake or coastal destinations.
4. Consider purchasing a day pass for boat services on the lakes to save money.
5. Bring comfortable walking shoes, as many of these destinations involve lots of walking, often on cobblestone streets or hilly terrain.
6. Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience and show respect to locals.
Milan’s central location in Northern Italy makes it an ideal base for exploring a diverse range of destinations. From the glamorous Italian Lakes to historic cities and coastal gems, these day trips offer a chance to experience the rich tapestry of Northern Italian culture, history, and natural beauty. While each of these destinations could easily warrant a longer stay, these day trips provide a tantalizing taste that may inspire future, more in-depth explorations of Italy’s northern regions.
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