7 Best Day Trips from Milan by Train – Attractions & Places to Visit Near Milan, Italy

In this blog, let’s read some of my favorite day trips from Milan by train, with why each destination is worth your time, how to reach it (especially by train), what to do there, and where to stay if you decide to extend your visit. These places to visit near Milan will suit every traveler—from history buffs and architecture lovers to foodies and nature enthusiasts. Let’s dive in.

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Day Trips from Milan by Train – Places to Visit near Milan – Attractions near Milan

Milan, Italy’s dynamic fashion and financial capital, is an electrifying blend of modernity, design, and historical heritage. Not only is Milan a city with famous tourist attractions, but you can also explore many beautiful cities, towns, lakes, and historic places nearby. Whether you’re craving the lakeside serenity of Como, the medieval charm of Bergamo, or the culinary richness of Parma, there’s a spectacular world waiting just beyond Milan’s bustling avenues.

Lake Como – Glamour Meets Nature

Lake Como is the crown jewel of northern Italy’s lakes and is blessed with a perfect blend of natural beauty, luxury villas, and quaint lakeside towns. A visit to Lake Como is one of the most popular day trips from Milan by train, especially for those looking to enjoy stunning mountain views, a leisurely ferry ride, and a glimpse of celebrity villas.

How to reach Lake Como from Milan: Take a regional train from Milano Centrale to Como S. Giovanni – it takes about 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can reach Varenna in about 1 hour via direct train, which many travelers prefer for its scenic route.

Things to do:

• Begin your journey in the town of Como, where you can visit the Duomo di Como, and the Volta Museum, and take the funicular to Brunate for breathtaking panoramic views.
• From there, take a ferry to Bellagio or Varenna, both known for their narrow lanes, gorgeous gardens, and lakeside cafés.
• Bellagio’s Villa Melzi Gardens and Varenna’s Villa Monastero are must-visits.

Hotel Stay (if overnight): Hotel Metropole Suisse in Como offers lakefront rooms without breaking the bank.

Tours to book: Consider a Lake Como day cruise with villa visits or a guided walking tour with ferry transport to explore more in less time.

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Bergamo – Medieval Hilltop Magic

Bergamo is often overlooked, but this hilltop town is one of the best places to visit near Milan for lovers of architecture, art, and old-world charm. Its upper city (Città Alta) is a walled medieval town with cobbled streets and incredible views.

How to reach Bergamo from Milan: Take a Trenord train from Milan to Bergamo; the ride takes 50 minutes. From the train station, local buses or a quick walk will get you to the funicular.

Things to do:

• Ride the funicular to Città Alta,
• Stroll through Piazza Vecchia,
• Visit the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica and admire the Colleoni Chapel.
• The Venetian Walls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and from the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Lombardy countryside.

Hotel stay (if overnight): Stay at GombitHotel, right in the heart of Città Alta, which offers modern rooms in a medieval setting.

Tours to book: Try a private Bergamo walking tour with history-rich commentary or a combined Milan to Bergamo day tour.

Verona – Romance and Roman Ruins

Verona gained fame through Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, and is a blend of romance, Roman history, and vibrant piazzas. It’s ideal for a cultural day trip from Milan by train, offering a rich history and numerous photo-worthy moments.

How to reach Verona from Milan: High-speed trains from Milano Centrale reach Verona Porta Nuova in just 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Things to do:

• Visit Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta) and stand on the famous balcony,
• Head to the Verona Arena, a well-preserved Roman amphitheater still hosting concerts today.
• Wander the lanes of Piazza delle Erbe, lined with colorful buildings and cafés, and don’t miss the Castelvecchio bridge and museum.

Hotel stay (if overnight): Hotel Milano & Spa, a short walk from the Arena, offers a rooftop hot tub with views.

Tours to book: Book a walking tour of Verona that includes Arena access, or try a wine-tasting tour in the Valpolicella region, which lies just outside the city.

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Lake Maggiore & Stresa – Elegance on the Water

Lake Maggiore is quieter and more aristocratic compared to Como, perfect for travelers seeking a refined and tranquil lakeside escape. The town of Stresa is its jewel, full of elegant architecture and surrounded by lush gardens and islands.

How to reach Stresa from Milan: Take a train from Milano Centrale to Stresa, which takes just over 1 hour.

Things to do: From Stresa, hop on a boat to the Borromean Islands—Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori. Isola Bella’s Borromeo Palace and Gardens are opulent and incredibly well-preserved.

Hotel stay (if overnight): Hotel La Palma is a lakeside classic with a rooftop bar and lake views.

Tours to book: A Borromean Islands boat tour with palace entry is a great way to experience all three islands efficiently.

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Turin – Grandeur, Coffee & Chocolate

Turin (Torino) is northern Italy’s cultural and gastronomic powerhouse. Known for its palaces, chocolate, and being the first capital of unified Italy, it’s a great destination for a complete cultural immersion and one of the finest train trips from Milan.

How to reach: High-speed trains from Milano Centrale or Porta Garibaldi reach Turin Porta Nuova in 1 hour.

Things to do:

• Explore the Royal Palace of Turin,
• Visit the Egyptian Museum and stroll the arcaded streets of Via Roma.
• Don’t miss a classic Turinese bicerin (a layered drink of coffee, chocolate, and cream) in one of the historic cafés. The Mole Antonelliana offers a museum dedicated to cinema and an elevator ride to a 360° viewing platform.

Hotel stay (if overnight): Hotel Victoria offers old-world charm and a spa tucked just behind Piazza San Carlo.

Tours to book: Choose a chocolate-tasting tour or a walking tour of Turin’s royal landmarks.

Parma – A Gastronomic Haven

If food is your love language, Parma is your paradise. Known worldwide for Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and Prosciutto di Parma, this city offers a delicious day trip near Milan for culinary enthusiasts.

How to reach: Trains from Milano Centrale to Parma take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Things to do:

• Start with the Parma Cathedral and the Baptistery, both exquisite Romanesque structures.
• Then, embark on a cheese factory tour and prosciutto tasting experience in the surrounding countryside.
• Explore the Teatro Farnese, a stunning wooden theatre built in the 17th century, is also a must-see.

Hotel stay (if overnight): The NH Parma, located near the train station, is a modern and comfortable option.

Tours to book: Book a half-day Parmigiano and Prosciutto tour with tastings—often includes pickup from Parma station.

Cinque Terre (via La Spezia) – Colorful Coastal Charm

Though it makes for a long day trip, the Cinque Terre villages are so iconic that they’re worth the effort. These UNESCO-listed fishing villages cascade down cliffsides with colorful homes, incredible seafood, and postcard-perfect views.

How to reach: Take a train from Milan to La Spezia (about 3 hours), then use the Cinque Terre Express trains that run between the villages.

Things to do:

• Stroll across Monterosso al Mare or Vernazza for beaches and picturesque walks.
• Hike the Sentiero Azzurro coastal hiking trail, which connects the towns with dramatic sea views.
• If you have time, then visit each village—Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso—each has its unique flavor.

Hotel stay (if overnight): Hotel Villa Steno in Monterosso offers rooms with stunning sea views and local charm.

Tours to book: Take a boat tour of Cinque Terre or a guided hiking tour to explore the hidden paths and villages.

Valuable Tips for Day Trips from Milan

• Start early: Most of these destinations are easily accessible in 1–1.5 hours, but getting an early train means more time to explore.
• Use regional and high-speed trains: Italy’s Trenitalia and Italo trains are reliable and scenic. Book early for high-speed trains to get the best fares.
• Buy tickets in advance: Especially in summer or on weekends, train tickets and ferry rides can sell out quickly.
• Pack light and smart: Carry a small daypack with water, a portable phone charger, sunscreen, and a light jacket—weather can change quickly in northern Italy.
• Consider a Milan Pass or Lombardy card: If you’re extending into overnight trips or multiple regional attractions, these passes can offer discounts.

Whether you’re chasing lake views, uncovering medieval secrets, sipping espresso in historical cafés, or indulging in world-class cuisine, these day trips from Milan will give you a glimpse of a unique Italian adventure. With Milan’s superb rail connectivity, it’s easy to explore the attractions near Milan without renting a car, making train trips from Milan both scenic and sustainable.

So go ahead—plan your escape from Milan’s stylish streets to discover the artistic treasures, culinary gems, and natural beauty just beyond the city limits. Discover the best of Northern Italy, which is only a train ride away.

Picture Courtesy – CanvaPro

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