Perfect Day Trips from Milan

Milan is a popular Italian destination that always impresses travelers. However, many are yet to realize that Milan’s proximity to various charming locations is one of its most overlooked features. That’s why we presented you with The Perfect Day Trips from Milan.

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Our list of the Perfect Day Trips from Milan

So, take a few days to explore Milan before venturing to nearby destinations. Most of these locations are less than two hours away by train. From the breathtaking Lake Como to Verona, the romantic home of Romeo and Juliet, Milan is an excellent starting point for discovering more of Italy’s beauty. That’s why we invite you to check out our list of the best day trips from Milan.

Lake Garda

Lake Garda is a must-visit destination if you’re looking for a beautiful and relaxing getaway from Milan. With its crystal clear water and charming surrounding towns, you’ll feel like you’re on a secluded beach in Sardinia. Bardolino, Sirmione, and Gardone Riviera are all worth exploring for their unique attractions, such as Romanesque churches, thermal baths, and extravagant gardens and villas. Take advantage of the opportunity to discover the hidden gems that surround Milan.

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Verona

Verona has a rich history and plenty of sights to see. You’ll feel like you’re in a time machine as you visit the Castelvecchio fortress, Giardino Giusti, the ancient arena, and Piazza delle Erbe. The town hall, Palazzo Maffei, and the Madonna Verona fountain are all worth a visit. Verona is more than just the setting of a tragic love story. It’s a city filled with architectural wonders and cultural treasures.

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Lake Como

Lake Como is truly a gem in northern Italy, with its steep wooded shoreline and pristine sapphire water. Visitors can indulge in villa hopping, lavish lunches, and long boat rides, making it a luxurious natural tour. If you’re planning a day trip, we recommend spending a day in Como, located on the southern tip of the lake, or starting in smaller Varenna and taking a ferry to Bellagio. It’s a perfect way to take in the beauty of Lake Como.

Note: You can book a Perfect Day Trip from Milan here.

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Bergamo

Located just over 50 kilometers northeast of Milan, Bergamo is a hidden gem worth exploring during your day trip. Many travelers skip Bergamo to visit Milan or continue to Lake Como, making this city much quieter and more pleasant. Bergamo feels more like a big village than an actual city, offering a breath of fresh air. You can easily travel to Bergamo from Milan in just 40 minutes by train (plan your trip via Trenitalia.com).

The best way to explore the medieval-looking Bergamo is on foot since all the sights are within walking distance. You can take the funicular to Città Alta and Venetian walls, enjoy the atmosphere in the squares like Piazza Vecchia and Piazza del Duomo, and admire the exterior and splendor of the Duomo and the Basilica Maria Maggiore.

Tip: To get an excellent view over the rooftops of Bergamo, climb the tower of the Palazzo della Ragione.

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Santa Margherita

You can combine visiting this village with a trip to Genoa, as it has convenient connections to Milan and Santa Margherita. It is a truly luxurious destination. Santa Margherita Ligure, only a short distance from Portofino, boasts cobblestone streets lined with medieval churches and artfully decorated Liberty (Art Nouveau) buildings for those who prefer a more understated atmosphere. It is less flashy than Portofino and more reasonably priced, with regular ferry service between the two towns.

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Lake Maggiore and Borromean islands

Lake Maggiore, another of the most beautiful Italian lakes, is a must-visit destination and a perfect one-day trip from Milan, especially for those who appreciate natural beauty and stunning architecture. One of the main reasons to explore this area is to visit the three distinct islands: Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola Superiore. Isola Bella, in particular, is home to the breathtaking Palazzo Borromeo, a stunning example of baroque architecture. The 10-tiered garden is also a true masterpiece of Baroque design that has been preserved for centuries. Isola Madre is another island worth exploring, home to a fabulous palace and gardens. And finally, Isola Superiore is a quaint fishing village perfect for those who enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere.

Note: You can book a perfect day trip here.

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Turin

If you want to travel from Milan to Turin, taking the train via Trenitalia.com will get you there in just one hour. Turin, also known as ‘Torino,’ is 141 kilometers west of Milan and makes for an exciting day trip or a more extended stay. As the second largest city in northern Italy after Milan, it’s located in the Piemonte region – “at the foot of the mountains” in Italian. Turin flourished in the 16th century when the House of Savoy made it the capital of their duchy. As a result, the city boasts many stunning baroque buildings, stylish squares, and covered passages, making it a great spot to explore for a full day.

While in Turin, visit the Duomo – home to the controversial Shroud of Turin. The Egyptian Museum, or Museo Egizio, is also a must-see attraction and one of the most important of its kind. A visit to the Royal Palace of Turin, or Palazzo Reale, is a great way to soak up some history – it was the former home of the House of Savoy from 1645. It featured beautiful spaces such as the Armeria, a collection of weapons. To add variety to your trip, consider stopping by the automobile museum, the Juventus stadium, and the Cinema Museum in the ‘Mole Antonelliana’ – the tower that symbolizes the city and offers an excellent vantage point.

Cinque Terre

If you’re looking for some beautiful views and coastal scenery in Italy, the Cinque Terre is worth a visit. This national park near Genoa has five charming villages, each with unique character and charm. Hiking trails run between the villages, offering stunning coastline views and the surrounding landscape. One of the most popular routes is the Via dell’Amore, which runs between Manarola and Riomaggiore. However, you’re looking for a picturesque fishing port. In that case, we recommend checking out Vernazza – it’s our favorite of the five villages and worth a visit.

Tip: With the Cinque Terre day trip from Milan, you can visit the Cinque Terre, one of Italy’s most beautiful coastal areas.

The conclusion of the Perfect Day Trips from Milan

As you can see, there is plenty to do and see in Milan’s surroundings. That’s why we suggest not skipping those day trips—they are simply outstanding. So, what were your favorite day trips from this city?