Milan is the financial and fashion capital of Italy. Both elegant and hip, it draws in millions of visitors from near and far, for business and leisure alike. Much of its lure comes from the fact that it’s one of the few (if only) places in Italy where antiquity and modernity meet. And with so much to do in this city, it seems impossible that one would ever want to leave. But for some, a change of pace from the constant buzz of this metropolis can be a welcomed change. Luckily, it’s well-connected by rail and road, making it easy to take day trips from Milan and escape the hustle and bustle of it all. From gourmet towns, to picturesque lakes and awe-striking art, the options are endless and we’ve got a comprehensive guide below!
Wine and Gastronomy
Home to numerous Michelin-star restaurants, Milan boasts a thriving culinary scene. But a short journey outside the city awaits a paradise for foodies and wine lovers. The capital of Emilia-Romagna, Bologna is only an hour by train from the center of Milan. It’s also home to many of Italy’s most coveted dishes and ingredients. Given this, it should come as no surprise that it bears the nickname la grassa (the fat one). From mortadella to egg pastas like tortellini, tagliatelle, and lasagna, the choices are endless. All these pair perfectly with the city’s iconic ragù bolognese (meat sauce), which contrary to popular belief is not served with spaghetti! If your accommodation in Milan is equipped with a kitchen, be sure to stop by Le Sfogline to pick up ready-made pasta. Prepared by sisters Daniela and Monica, this legendary pasta shop tastes like Sunday lunch at Nonna’s house.
Many agree Emilia-Romagna is the culinary heart of Italy, making it the perfect place for foodies. Modena is where you can taste the finest aceto balsamico (balsamic vinegar). And after tasting the real deal, you’ll probably think twice before buying a bottle of that ordinary supermarket brand! Another must-visit on every foodie’s itinerary should be Parma. Here you can savor two of Italy’s most prized ingredients: prosciutto crudo and parmigiano reggiano. For a taste of freshness, consider a tour at one of the area’s many caseifici and prosciuttofici. You’ll not only get to sample these delicacies, but you will also see how they’re made. This is a real treat for any gourmet traveler. Regardless of which town in Emilia-Romagna you decide to visit, all make wonderful day trips from Milan.
Meanwhile, sparkling wine lovers must visit the Franciacorta hills. Featuring sprawling vineyards and delicious food, it lies east of the city and is the only region that produces Franciacorta wine. Despite its effervescence, it differs from Prosecco and shares more similarities with Champagne. But if you prefer more full-bodied red wines, head southwest of Milan to Le Langhe. Located in Piedmont, this area is famed for its production of Barolo and Barbaresco wine. It’s also home to some of the world’s finest white truffles and hazelnuts, along with many delicious dishes. If you can visit during the month of October, be sure to make a stop at the Alba White Truffle Fair. From truffle hunting demonstrations to sensory analysis workshops and wine tastings, it’s nothing short of a culinary celebration.
Day Trips from Milan to the Lake District
The Italian Lake District is globally recognized for its breathtaking beauty. Offering respite from the chaos of the city, Milan is the perfect base to reach them. If you’re looking to get a taste of decadence, be sure to explore Lake Como and its towns of Bellagio and Como. Famed for its villas, fine dining, luxury hotels, and premium quality silk, it’s easy to understand why the area has long been a top vacation spot among aristocrats and celebrities. It’s also a short train ride from the elegant and enchanting town of Lugano, which is located in Switzerland!
Meanwhile, Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore have their fair share to offer. The former lake is Italy’s largest, and spans three regions: Lombardy, Veneto, and Trentino-Alto Adige. It features turquoise waters and the perfect terrain to grow lemons, despite its northerly position. Among its many towns is Sirmione, home to Castello Scaligero – a stunning fortress – and healing thermal baths, which can be accessed at some of the area’s luxury hotels. The local ferry service allows one to visit multiple towns with minimal effort. On the other hand, Lake Maggiore boasts clear waters, ornate villas, and meticulously manicured gardens. Known for its regal opulence, consider visiting Stresa, one of the lake’s more popular towns.
But there’s more to these lakes than lavish living. A wide variety of trails offer the right conditions for hiking amidst nature. Characterized by lush forests set in the foothills of the Alps, the lakes are a great spot to unwind. Many of the area’s towns are far from any tourist traps, allowing visitors the opportunity to enjoy authentic food and the peaceful lake lifestyle. During the summer months, this is a great option if you’re looking to beat the heat of the city and in winter, it offers postcard-worthy sceneries.
Art and Culture
Though Milan boasts its fair share of art, there’s also plenty for one to explore outside of the city. An epicenter of renaissance art, Florence is reachable by train in under two hours. A visit here is highly recommended if you’re an art or history aficionado. Recognized for its iconic terracotta dome, Santa Maria del Fiore (simply known as the Duomo) is an iconic symbol of the city. While here, consider visiting the Uffizi Gallery and the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze. Both showcase the masterpieces of artists like Michelangelo, Da Vinci, Botticelli and more. And though most opt to stay in Florence longer, if your itinerary doesn’t allow for that, a day trip is worth squeezing in!
Among northern Italy’s many art cities is Verona. A charming town, it’s home to a Roman amphitheater that not only resembles the Colosseum, but it even predates it! The Arena di Verona is open to visitors for tours and is a popular concert venue during the summer months. But the town is also known as the setting of Shakespeare’s famed Romeo and Juliet. Though fictitious, people from across the globe flock here to visit Casa di Giulietta. Fans can even climb up to Juliet’s balcony to pose for a photo. Finally, Piazza delle Erbe is a must-visit for those seeking some retail therapy. Home to a bustling market, here one can find everything from artisanal souvenirs to fresh flowers and local produce.
Often overlooked, Turin is heaven for art and history lovers. The capital of Piedmont, this elegant city is home to countless museums. And while a day trip isn’t nearly enough time to explore them all, it’s a great start. For a taste of antiquity, consider visiting the Museo Egizio or the Chapel of the Holy Shroud. The former hosts an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, while the latter houses what many believe to be the burial shroud of Jesus Christ. And to delve deeper into Italian history, be sure to visit Palazzo Reale and Palazzo Carignano. They provide a glimpse into the origins of the country, both as a royal kingdom and as a republic. But even a simple stroll through Turin’s streets is an artful experience with its stunning piazzas, ornate architecture, and exquisite cafes. Be sure to give their iconic drink, known as bicerin, a try!
For those seeking to escape the crowds, these three towns definitely deserve a visit: Pavia, Bergamo, and Brescia. Pavia is a charming town located only twenty minutes from the center of Milan by train. It boasts beautiful architecture and one of the world’s oldest universities, something that lends a burst of vibrancy to such a small town. Visits to the Visconti Castle and the Certosa di Pavia – an elaborate monastery located slightly outside the historic center – are a must when making a day trip here.
On the other hand, Bergamo offers a unique experience, thanks to its Città Alta (Upper Town) and Città Bassa (Lower Town). Day trippers can arrive in Bergamo by train in just over 45 minutes and can navigate the upper and lower towns by way of a funicular, which offers a scenic panorama of the surrounding countryside. Lastly, Brescia can be reached by high-speed rail in a little over 30 minutes and promises plenty of elegance and architectural treasures, along with enjoying UNESCO status. It’s also the gateway to the Franciacorta region, which we mentioned above, making it a great stopover on the journey to the area’s wineries. For those looking to add Brescia to their roster of day trips from Milan, be sure to check out our guide here.
Final Verdict on Day Trips from Milan
It’s clear that for those in search of great day trips from Milan, there is no shortage of choice. Whether you’re looking for great food and wine, natural beauty, or art and culture, there is something for every taste.
