Day Trips from Milan (Realistic Choices)
8 Fantastic Places around Milan to Discover Within a Day

Milan is stylish, vibrant, and full of energy but after a day or two, I often find the city buzz exhausting and start craving something slower, quieter, or more scenic.

The good news? You don’t have to go far to get that change of pace.

I’ve lived just under an hour from Milan for years and have explored the region in every direction, from alpine lakes and vineyard-covered hills to seaside towns.

Whether you’re in Milan for a long weekend or using it as a base for exploring Northern Italy, these are my go-to day trips that reveal the real Italy, beyond the postcards and tour buses.

And don’t worry: every trip on this list is totally doable in a day. While cities like Venice, Florence, and Cinque Terre are amazing and often recommended, they’re just too far to enjoy without feeling rushed. Here’s where to go instead.

1. Como on Lake Como

Let’s be real – Lake Como has to come first on this list.

Not only is Italy’s third-largest lake breathtakingly beautiful, but it’s also incredibly easy to reach. I usually hop on the direct train to Como, which takes just about 40 minutes (⇨ schedule and tickets). It couldn’t be more convenient for a day trip.

When I arrive, I love starting with a stroll through the narrow streets of the old town. The Como Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta) never fails to impress me.

From there, I walk along the lakeside promenade all the way to Villa Olmo, a beautiful 18th-century villa right by the water.

One of my favorite ways to end the day is by riding the Funicolare Como–Brunate, the historic funicular that takes you up to the tiny hilltop village of Brunate.

The views from up there? Absolutely stunning, you can see all over Como and across the southern part of the lake.

If Como itself feels a bit too crowded (which happens often, especially on weekends), I highly recommend hopping on one of the regular ferries to reach quieter spots like Bellagio or Varenna. It’s such a relaxing way to explore more of the lake without rushing.

2. Lugano on Lake Lugano

Another lakeside gem I absolutely love visiting is Lugano, just across the border in Switzerland on the stunning Lake Lugano. It’s a super easy and scenic day trip from Milan. And yes, I always take the train.

The ride takes just over an hour, with departures about every 30 minutes (⇨ schedule and tickets), and you’re treated to gorgeous views along the way.

Lugano sits right on the northern shore of the lake, surrounded by two postcard-perfect hills: Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore. I’ve taken the funiculars up both, and each one offers a completely different (but equally breathtaking) view of the city and lake below.

The old town is just as charming, with narrow cobbled streets, elegant houses, and those classic Swiss-Italian-style palazzi. I usually take my time wandering, grabbing a gelato (yes, even in Switzerland!), and admiring the laid-back vibe.

Before heading back to Milan, I always make time for a walk along the lakeside promenade and a peaceful stroll through Parco Ciani. It’s filled with exotic trees, vibrant flowers, and some of the best lakefront views in town. It’s the perfect place to slow down and soak it all in.

3. Stresa on Lago Maggiore

Stresa is one of those classic day trips from Milan that I keep coming back to and always recommend. Set on the western shore of Lake Maggiore in Piedmont, with views of the Borromean Islands and surrounded by mountains, the setting is absolutely stunning.

Getting there is super easy: the train from Milan takes just over an hour, with departures about once an hour. No car needed which I love for a stress-free trip.

Now, let’s be clear: Stresa isn’t a hidden gem. It’s well-known and can get very busy, especially during spring and summer. But it still has a certain old-world charm, especially with its row of grand Art Nouveau hotels that hint at its Belle Époque past, back when Stresa was one of Europe’s top luxury getaways.

I like to start my visit with a walk through the small historic center, stop for a coffee or gelato, and stroll along the scenic lakeside promenade. Even with the crowds, there’s something undeniably elegant about the atmosphere.

From there, I always recommend taking a boat out to the Borromean Islands. My favorite is Isola Bella, where the baroque Palazzo Borromeo and its perfectly manicured terraced gardens feel like something straight out of a painting.

If you’re up for a bit of elevation, hop on the cable car up to Mount Mottarone. The views from nearly 1,500 meters up are incredible: you can see across Lake Maggiore and into the Alps.

While you’re up there, I also love wandering through the Alpine Garden (Giardino Botanico Alpinia). It’s quiet, full of wildflowers, and offers one of my favorite lake views in the region.

4. Bergamo

The first time I ended up in Bergamo was completely by chance. I had an early flight from what’s officially called Milan Bergamo Airport, and booked a hotel nearby just for convenience. But that quick overnight stay turned into a little love story.

I didn’t expect much, and instead found one of the most charming cities I’ve visited in Northern Italy.

A lot of people only know Bergamo because of its airport, but it’s so much more than that. Just 50 km east of Milan, it’s easy to reach by train and bus. The ride from Milano Centrale takes around 50 minutes, and it drops you in the lower city, known as Città Bassa.

From the station, I usually walk up Viale Vittorio Emanuele II, passing the more modern shopping streets, until I reach the base of the Città Alta, Bergamo’s medieval upper town. You can take the funicular, but if you don’t mind the climb, walking up gives you some amazing views.

Once you reach the top, it really feels like stepping into another era. The Città Alta is completely surrounded by a 5-kilometer-long 16th-century Venetian wall, and inside you’ll find winding stone streets, sunlit piazzas, and some seriously impressive architecture.

I love lingering in Piazza Vecchia, which is as postcard-perfect as it gets, and exploring the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and the Colleoni Chapel. Both absolutely stunning inside and out.

And then, of course, there’s the food. Bergamo is known for its hearty mountain cuisine. I always make time for casoncelli, a rich stuffed pasta, or a traditional polenta dish, especially on cooler days. Comfort food at its finest!

5. Turin

After spending time in the fast-paced streets of Milan, Turin always feels like a breath of fresh air: more elegant, more relaxed, and just as full of culture (though as a Piedmont fan who once lived practically in a Turin suburb, I might be a little biased).

Only 150 km away, Turin is super easy to reach by train. It takes about an hour, with departures every 30 minutes (⇨ schedule and tickets). Perfect for a smooth and scenic day trip.

Turin was Italy’s first capital, and you can still feel that royal weight in its architecture and layout. The influence of the House of Savoy is everywhere, from grand boulevards to palaces and noble residences.

From the central station (FS Porta Nuova), I usually start by strolling down Via Roma, the main shopping street, which leads to the elegant Piazza San Carlo.

From there, it’s a short walk to Piazza Castello, home to the 17th-century Palazzo Reale, one of my favorite spots in the city and the thing to visit if you only want to chose one.

Nearby, you’ll find the Turin Cathedral, where you can view a replica of the world-famous (and hotly debated) Shroud of Turin. Even if you’re not religious, the history surrounding it is fascinating.

And of course, no visit to Turin is complete without seeing the Mole Antonelliana, the city’s most iconic landmark. I’ve taken the panoramic elevator to the top, those views never get old.

Inside the Mole, you’ll also find the excellent National Cinema Museum, which is genuinely fascinating but if you’re not into museums, it’s one of those places you could skip without too much FOMO.

Honestly, if you only have one day in Turin, I highly recommend joining a guided tour. The city has so much to offer: from history and architecture to hidden stories you’d never notice on your own.
⇨ Short & classic: 2hrs Turin Highlights Small-group Walking Tour
⇨ Prefer a trip direct from Milan? I recommend this day trip to Turin

6. Genua

If you’re craving a little Mediterranean flair on your Milan getaway, Genoa is a fantastic choice. I’ve taken this trip once when I needed a change of scenery: sea air, colorful buildings, and a completely different pace. It never disappoints.

The train ride takes under two hours (⇨ schedule and tickets) and you’ll arrive in the capital of Liguria, perched right along the stunning Ligurian Riviera.

What I love about Genoa is how layered and unexpected it feels. The old town is one of the largest in Europe, full of narrow alleys, laundry-lined balconies, and centuries of stories.

A central highlight is the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, with its bold black-and-white striped façade and beautifully frescoed interior.

Just a short walk away, you’ll find Piazza de Ferrari, home to a grand bronze fountain, the Teatro Carlo Felice opera house, and the elegant Palazzo Ducale. I also recommend a quiet moment at the Church of San Matteo.

On quieter days, when there aren’t any cruise ships in the huge harbor, the tiny piazza and cloister feel like a peaceful secret corner of the city.

One of my favorite streets to wander is Le Strade Nuove, lined with Renaissance and Baroque Palazzi dei Rolli. They’re so architecturally striking that the whole area has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for good reason.

If you’re traveling with kids (or just love aquariums), the Aquarium of Genoa is a big crowd-pleaser. It’s one of the largest in Europe and may be worth a stop.

Down at the old harbor, I always take a walk along the palm-lined promenade and admire the fresco-covered Palazzo San Giorgio.

And before heading back to Milan, don’t miss a visit to La Lanterna, Genoa’s medieval lighthouse. Climb to the top for sweeping views over the port and city: a perfect way to end a day in this fantastic city.

7. Verona

Verona is one of those cities that completely lives up to its romantic reputation. I’ve done it as a day trip from Milan, and while it’s tempting to stay longer, even one day gives you a real taste of its magic.

It’s about 160 kilometers east of Milan, and the train ride takes under 1.5 hours (⇨ schedule and tickets), which makes it easy and totally doable.

Known as the “City of Love,” Verona blends history, elegance, and just the right amount of drama. The most iconic landmark is the Arena di Verona, a Roman amphitheater that’s still used for operas and concerts. Standing inside, you really feel the weight of centuries.

Of course, I also had to visit Juliet’s House. Yes, it’s touristy, and no, Juliet was never real, but the little courtyard and the famous balcony still make for a fun (and very Instagrammable) stop.

Verona’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you can feel why as you walk around. I love Piazza delle Erbe, with its mix of medieval buildings, the central fountain, and lively cafés.

The nearby Torre dei Lamberti is worth the climb. The view from the top is a 360° postcard of rooftops, churches, and the winding Adige River.

Another favorite of mine is the Palazzo della Ragione, with its gorgeous courtyard and carved ceilings. And if you love Romanesque architecture, don’t miss the Basilica of San Zeno. It’s grand, peaceful, and often less crowded than the city’s central attractions.

Before heading back, I always walk across the Ponte Scaligero, the 14th-century brick bridge that spans the Adige. It’s not only a beautiful piece of medieval engineering, it also gives you a fantastic view in Verona.

8. Bernina Express Panoramic Tour

This day trip from Milan is the complete opposite of city life and honestly, one of the most spectacular experiences I’ve had in Northern Italy (well, technically Switzerland too).

The day starts early with a 3-hour bus ride to St. Moritz, the glamorous alpine resort tucked high in the Swiss Alps. A fantastic place already for its location: mountains all around, pristine lakes, and that unmistakable high-altitude stillness.

I did use the 2,5hrs time to walk through St. Moritz, grab a coffee by the lake, and soak in the luxury-meets-nature vibe. But the real magic comes in the afternoon.

That’s when you board the Bernina Express, riding in one of its panoramic carriages. It’s hands-down, one the most scenic train ride I’ve ever taken.

The route takes you over 196 bridges, through 55 tunnels, and across the kind of landscapes that make you sit in stunned silence: glacial valleys, bright turquoise lakes, mountain passes, and quiet alpine villages.

This stretch of the Rhaetian Railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and once you’re on it, you’ll immediately understand why.

The train ends in Tirano, a charming Italian town near the Swiss border. From there, it’s about 2.5 hours back to Milan, again by bus. Enough time to scroll through your photos and realize you just had one of the most breathtaking day trips of your life.

FAQ