Summary
Milan, Italy’s fashion hub, is abundant with opportunities for tourists. This vibrant city boasts chic boutiques, labyrinthine streets to traverse, and an array of stunning architecture to appreciate.
Before venturing beyond the city, it is essential to ascend to the rooftop of Milan’s Duomo for breathtaking views, sample a variety of flavors from the city’s numerous gelato vendors, and of course, catch a glimpse of Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper amidst the bustling crowds.
Only after these immersive experiences should you consider exploring the best day trips from Milan:
1. Lake Como
Venture to Italy’s third largest lake for a day, enjoying a luxurious cruise across its serene waters. Admire the breathtaking alpine landscape from the boat’s bow while catching glimpses of the enchanting lakeside villas.
Combine your visit with a tour of Como city, located at the southern tip of the lake, where the charming historic center is sure to captivate you.
Allow a couple of leisurely hours to wander its charming streets, and consider a ride on the funicular for panoramic views before returning to the lively atmosphere of Milan.
2. St. Moritz, Switzerland
You may be surprised to discover that Switzerland is just a day’s journey from Italy’s capital. Board the Bernina Express in Tirano, and within two and a half hours, you will arrive.
This scenic journey is remarkable in itself, as it is the steepest railway in the world, ascending from 429 meters to over 1800 in the Swiss Alps.
Gaze at the breathtaking alpine vistas from your window, and you will be reluctant to disembark once you reach the renowned St. Moritz, a celebrated mountain resort.
There will be ample time to explore this picturesque locale before descending back down the mountains.
3. Bergamo
A journey to Bergamo is often paired with a visit to Lake Como, yet it merits an entire day dedicated to exploration on its own.
Encircled by historic walls that extend for five kilometers, the old town is rich in medieval architecture, providing substantial intrigue for visitors seeking a delightful destination.
Take a funicular ride from the base to the summit of the town, where you can admire significant landmarks such as the St. Maria Maggiore Cathedral and the Colleoni Chapel.
Lastly, take a moment to appreciate the stunning surroundings of Bergamo, with hills expanse leading towards the distant Lake Como.
4. Franciacorta
The Franciacorta region presents an opportunity to sample some spectacular, award-winning wines amid stunning Italian scenery.
Engage with the wine producers and inquire about their production methods and what distinguishes their particular brands.
The boutique wineries of Franciacorta offer a truly unique experience.
Moreover, no visit to Milan would be complete without dedicating time to shopping. The Franciacorta design outlet offers an array of bargains for the astute shopper, ensuring that you can find delightful treasures.
5. Venice
What could be more enchanting than a visit to one of Italy’s most cherished romantic cities, the canal-crossed Venice? While it may be challenging to experience all that Venice has to offer within a single day, it is certainly worth the effort.
Stroll through its charming cobblestone streets, sip coffee in the iconic Piazza San Marco, and consider a gondola ride through the canals for an indulgent experience.
You’ll likely be enchanted by the radiant lagoon and extraordinary architecture that define one of Italy’s most beloved tourist destinations.
If you have further time, consider visiting one of Venice’s nearby islands, such as Murano, known for its glass-blowing legacy, where you might find a special memento to bring back home.
6. Cinque Terre
The idyllic Cinque Terre presents a fantastic destination, particularly for those eager to capture the perfect Instagram photo.
With layers of vibrant, colorful houses adorning the hillsides, the five villages of Cinque Terre are guaranteed to surprise and delight visitors.
Keep your camera ready during this excursion; you certainly will not regret it.
This UNESCO World Heritage site encompasses some of the most scenic locations in Italy.
While exploring all five villages may be impractical, there will be ample opportunities to wander around Monterosso al Mare and Vernazza, savor an ice cream, and observe the local fishermen at work.
Truly blissful.
7. Lugano and Bellagio
Often dubbed the ‘pearl of Lake Como’, Bellagio effortlessly earns its place among the finest day trips from Milan.
Simply relax and immerse yourself in the wonderful atmosphere of this charming town while tasting its culinary delights.
Subsequently, cross the border into Lugano and enjoy the stunning views of the Swiss Alps along the route.
This presents an opportunity to indulge in world-famous Swiss chocolate, which you might wish to purchase as a souvenir for friends and family back home.
Or perhaps keep it all to yourself…
8. Lake Maggiore & the Borromean Islands
Lake Maggiore, along with its collection of charming islands, makes for a delightful day away from Milan.
Acquire a hop-on, hop-off ferry pass and spend your day hopping between islands on the glistening waters.
Commence from Stresa on the shore, then leisurely make your way to Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori to appreciate their unique offerings.
With the sun shining above, there could hardly be a more peaceful way to spend part of your Italian getaway.
Be sure to explore the Palace Museum and Gardens on Isola Madre, as well as browsing for keepsakes on Isola dei Pescatori.
9. Lake Garda
One cannot possibly undertake a journey to Italy without visiting its largest and most renowned lake, Lake Garda.
Traveling by train through the picturesque Lombard countryside will lead you to this stunning destination, where you can indulge in its Mediterranean climate upon arrival.
Partake in a refreshing cruise on the water and visit the enchanting lakeside towns of Sirmione and Desenzano.
Sirmione, often regarded as the ‘pearl’ of the lake, features numerous attractions, including a fortress, a Roman villa, and the Catullo caves.
The port city of Desenzano boasts a magnificent medieval castle, adding to your experience.
10. Verona
Shakespeare’s charming Verona undoubtedly warrants a day trip, and it is just as picturesque as he portrayed it.
Follow in the footsteps of the world’s most celebrated lovers, Romeo and Juliet, as you traverse the streets immortalized in his plays.
You’ll have the opportunity to see the very balcony from which Juliet lamented, ‘wherefore art thou Romeo?’
Beyond the literary references, Verona offers other attractions, including a remarkable Roman amphitheater constructed in the first century AD, as well as the bustling Piazza Mercato.
11. Genova and Portofino
This excursion from the lively city allows you to discover the stunning Ligurian coast.
Genova, Italy’s largest port, offers numerous delights for tourists, including significant monuments and an old town partially designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
While exploring the coastline, continue onward to the vibrant village of Portofino and its neighboring Santa Margherita Ligure.
Take in the picturesque sight of fishing boats gently swaying in the water while inhaling the refreshing salty air before making your way back to the city.
12. Interlaken & the Swiss Alps
Who would have imagined that just a few hours from Milan lies the splendid alpine scenery of Interlaken? After a journey aboard the ‘Green Train of the Alps’, you’ll find yourself immersed in a tranquil world, featuring enchanting mountain lakes, soaring peaks, and idyllic countryside.
Interlaken serves as an excellent locale to simply lose yourself in nature, but if that doesn’t entice you, consider indulging in the delectable Swiss chocolate.
13. Maranello Ferrari tour
One of Italy’s most iconic attractions is undoubtedly the Ferrari brand.
If the thrill of high-speed automobiles racing around tracks excites you, then this day excursion should be paramount on your list.
Immerse yourself in all things Ferrari with a day trip to Maranello.
Witness the test track where brand-new cars undergo rigorous testing, delve deeper into the brand’s history at the Museo Ferrari, and marvel at the vintage vehicles on display in the gallery.
To enhance your Formula 1 experience, visit the Museo Casa Enzo Ferrari to discover its extensive 40-year legacy.
14. Florence
The enchanting city of Florence is undoubtedly a must-visit during your Italian voyage.
It’s a wonderful place to spend a few hours wandering, yet it also boasts an array of important cultural sites, including the renowned Uffizi Gallery and the magnificent Duomo, which grants panoramic views of the city from its summit.
Be sure to visit the Ponte Vecchio, where the Medici family once walked, now adorned with jewellers lining its walkways.
15. Turin
As Italy’s first capital, Turin is predominantly recognized for its shroud depicting the face of Jesus.
However, the city offers far more beyond this artifact.
During your visit, allocate time to explore the baroque church of San Lorenzo and the cathedral, a true Renaissance architectural gem.
Even a simple stroll along Turin’s tree-lined boulevards can be a delightful way to spend your day, or taking a moment to unwind in one of its many charming cafes.
