Day out from Milan: 10 best ideas for the perfect daily trip

Milan is one of the most central cities in Italy and, due to its special location, it can be a prime starting point for your captivating day trips, offering seamless connections to charming destinations that allow you to escape the urban chaos and immerse yourself in a delightful day away from the city.

Whether you prefer a quick flight to a beautiful European city or a scenic drive, you can reach fascinating destinations in just two hours, rich in artistic and architectural treasures and culinary specialities.

Are you looking for any alluring ideas for exciting days out from Milan? The variety of enticing options will help you plan an itinerary that perfectly matches your preferences.

Are you ready to explore the incredible sights around the Italian Capital of Fashion and Finance? You will be enchanted by picturesque villages, rich in history, art and culture, charming landscapes sprinkled with masterpieces, historic palaces, sumptuous and majestic castles, natural treasures and hiking trails.

Taking a break from Milan, you will enhance your mental and physical well-being. If you prefer a relaxing, carefree day, the elegant and exclusive Serravalle Designer Outlet, easily reachable by car, shuttle bus and train, is the perfect destination for people who love refined garments. Here you will enjoy an exclusive luxury shopping experience, featuring prestigious national and international fashion and sportswear brands. By following Visit Italy's recommendations, you can treat yourself to fantastic day trips from Milan.

Sirmione is a city that rises on the peninsula lapped by Lake Garda, one of the three large lakes easily accessible from Milan. Just 140 kilometers from the Milanese city, Sirmione is a small historic centre, a lakeside resort of clearly Roman origins, renowned for its architectural beauty and charming lakeside atmosphere.

Among the most striking sites are the Grotte di Catullo, an ancient Roman villa perched above the lake, offering breathtaking views. The villa owes its name to Poem 31 by the Latin poet Catullus, in which he describes his return to his beloved home in Sirmione.

Within the caves, it's possible to visit the archaeological museum, one of the most popular and visited in Italy, where you can observe a model of the original Roman villa. It’s made up of three sections inside which offer insights into the pile dwellings found on the shores of the lake, artifacts from the Grotte di Catullo and the funerary objects from the church of San Pietro in Mavino in Sirmione.

The villa Is named after the poet Catullo, who described his return to his beloved home in Sirmione in the poem 31: an excellent reason to try and relive the sensations of the Latin author by visiting this site.

Little tip: a wonderful way to visit Sirmione in an exciting way and in a short time is by observing it from the lake for a truly unique perspective.

The Gavi hills will welcome you with their beautiful landscapes dotted with vineyards. Those hills are one of the most well-known wine-producing areas and they extend between the districts of Ovada and Tortona.

The territory is rich in parish churches, picturesque villages, and majestic castles frozen in time. It's a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with scenic cycling routes, adventurous hikes, leisurely walks through lush nature, and thrilling days spent on golf courses bordered by crystal-clear lakes and streams set in breathtaking natural landscapes.

The village of Gavi will also enchant you with the beauty of its historic center, embellished by monuments, historical palaces in bright polychrome tones, and alleyways with unusual perspectives, evoking the splendor and atmosphere of the Middle Ages. Exploring this gem, nestled between Piedmont and Liguria and easily reachable with a day trip from Milan, Genoa, Bologna, Alessandria, and Turin, you will undertake an exciting journey back through the centuries.

To combine a relaxing day out strolling through the hills with shopping and relaxation, you should head to the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet of Serravalle, the ideal place for shopping lovers, where you can enjoy a unique shopping experience in an exclusive location.

Located just a few kilometers from the Gavi hills, the complex – the largest in Italy and one of the most prestigious in Europe – welcomes visitors with its striking architectural setting. With restaurants, cafés, and elegant boutiques, it offers the very best of luxury brand collections, ranging from Haute Couture to Design. Children can play safely in the enchanting Play Land, while the entire year of 2025 will be enlivened by events and exhibitions celebrating the 25th anniversary of this iconic outlet.

It’s the perfect break after an exciting day out around Milan.

If you are passionate about music, you cannot miss Cremona, the city of craftsmen. Guarnieri del Gesù, Amati and Stradivari made this city, about an hour from Milan, the true cradle of worldwide violin craftsmanship.

The Violin Museum will allow you to discover the history and art behind the production of one of the most used and most famous stringed instruments with an immersive experience, giving the guests the opportunity to take a journey through the history of the Lady Blunt, the violin built by Antonio Stradivari in 1721. Niccolò Paganini and Giovanni Battista Viotti relied on the Cremonese luthier, who until his death at the age of 93 continued to work to make the most famous instruments in the world.

In addition to music, Cremona Is also renowned for its confectionery, with the numerous shops scattered throughout the historic center ready to welcome all your palates with a variety of sweets. Torrone will necessarily have to marry your papillas: you’ll find out the reason for its name, inspired by the shape of the bell tower of the Duomo, and learn that although it’s traditionally a Christmas treat, in Cremona you can enjoy it all year round.

Until 2004 it was part of the province of Milan, then Monza became a separate province, representing the whole Brianza and bringing prestige and honor back to the summer residence of Teodolinda and Agilulfo during the Lombard reign.

A few kilometers from Milan and easily reachable in less than half an hour by car and also by train, Monza is famous both for the history of its monuments and for its racetrack. The latter is the third oldest and permanent in the world after Indianapolis and Brooklands, and hosts the annual editions of the Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix.

Inside the Cathedral Museum, one of its cultural attractions, it will be possible to see the famous Iron Crown, the legendary relic which rested on Napoleon's head and which was obtained by melting one of the nails of the Cross. Returned to Monza in 1866, it is currently displayed in a niche of the Cathedral which can only be viewable during a guided tour, keeping at a safe distance, but being able to observe the frescoes that surround it, recalling the history that the Crown itself lived.

Bellagio, an enchanting village on the shores of Lake Como, is the ideal destination for wonderful day trips from Milan combining relaxation, entertainment and shopping.

This aristocratic town Is located at the slopes of the majestic promontory delimiting the two main branches of the lake, between the pretty hamlets of Loppia, Pescallo, and San Giovanni to the foothills of Monte San Primo, which stands out in the Larian Triangle. It’s surrounded by sumptuous villas, lush gardens, and dense vegetation, providing beautiful views.

Strolling through the enchanting old town, you can experience sumptuous atmospheres of the past. Among the wide range of charming sights, we suggest you visit the central Piazza Giuseppe Mazzini, the Torre delle Arti, Punta Spartivento; and, in the area of San Giovanni a Bellagio, the dreamlike house of flying bicycles created by Ivan Gilardoni, as well as the Museum of Navigation Instruments.

After exploring the village, you could indulge into delightful boutiques offering the best-handcrafted jewelry, leather goods, fine silk, Italian-made products, blown-glass pendants, carved olive wood objects, aristocratic traditional shops, and haute couture ateliers.

In addition to the natural and cultural attractions, you can taste the local specialties in the local pastry shop, which will delight even the most demanding palates. Among the delicacies of this part of Lake Como we mention the Miascia, prepared with stale bread or an exquisite mixture of yellow or white flour, fresh fruit, and dried fruit. Another typical cake is the Pan Malatoch, embellished with a decoration of walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, dried and candied fruit.

Valsesia, a scenic alpine valley you could visit during your day trips from Milan, has many amazing surprises for the traveler. In the province of Vercelli, there is a precious gem, rich in history and fascinating traditions. It’s nestled in the foothills near the majestic Monte Rosa. Known for its Walser traditions, It offers a wealth of cultural and natural attractions.

This area is particularly appreciated by people who love to contemplate the wilderness and spectacular scenery. If you prefer an active lifestyle, you can indulge in outdoor sports such as rafting, hydrospeeding, and kayaking. You can experience mountaineering, trekking, climbing, paragliding, mountain biking, and trail biking. It is also an oasis of peace and relaxation for long walks among the ancient hamlets.

If you dream of a journey back in time through nature and enchanting villages, Val Mastellone, a side valley of Valsesia, is the perfect destination. Rolling meadows, lush woods, and villages like Fobello, awarded the Orange Flag, offer authentic and spectacular views.

Among the most fascinating hikes are those to Lake Baranca and the Walser colony of Rimella, nestled in the Alta Valsesia Nature Park. Other gems to add to your itinerary include Varallo, with its artistic and architectural treasures, the Sacro Monte and its charming historic center, the medieval village of Borgosesia, and Alagna, home to the finest local craftsmanship.

The Varesotto area, rich in majestic medieval castles and lush landscape, is the perfect day out for families. You can go on a trip, contemplating fascinating sceneries or stroll through the woods surrounding Lake Maggiore. In addition to the renowned Sacro Monte and Campo dei Fiori, the area offers many other attractions and points of interest. Nature lovers can set out to visit the Fermona waterfall near Ferrera di Varese. Other experiences worth trying are taking the Sasso del Ferro cable car in Laveno Mombello, to reach Poggio Sant'Elsa, from where you can admire spectacular views.

In Leggiuno, you can visit the ancient hermitage dedicated to Santa Maria del Sasso with its evocative portico. Other destinations that we suggest you explore are Monteviasco, a hidden gem of the Valcuvia, and Vararo in Cittiglio, ideal for trekking enthusiasts, the picturesque village of Caldè in Castelveccana, the hike known as the Sun Path with its splendid viewpoints, and the one of the Moon in Agra, dotted with chestnut, birch trees and statues depicting species of alpine fauna.

You can also spend half a day outside Milan visiting the provincial capital, you’ll discover a destination rich in art, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Varese rises on seven hills and includes seven historical “castellanze,” which still preserve traces of their rural past. The magnificence of Villa Recalcati in Casbeno will enchant you, while in Biumo Inferiore you can admire noble residences and elegant aristocratic mansions.

If you prefer to indulge in relaxing day trips from Milan discovering the beautiful Alpine valleys, you could explore San Pellegrino Terme, a popular destination for mountain lovers who enjoy walking, trekking, and outdoor sports. Nestled in the marvelous setting of the Brembana Valley, it's the ideal place for people who wish to combine calmness and passion for natural environments. You can reach this destination in just over an hour from the Lombard capital, located 70 km away, as well as from the main towns of the Brianza area.

San Pellegrino will enchant you with the charm of its historic town center, featuring elegant Art Nouveau buildings and iconic landmarks such as the Municipal Casino, designed by Romolo Squadrelli and adorned with magnificent stained-glass windows and colorful frescoes, and the majestic Grand Hotel, dating back to the early 1900s, which has hosted prominent figures including royalty, writers, and renowned actors like Queen Margherita of Savoy, Montale, and Quasimodo.

Among the main points of interest, we recommend visiting the Church of San Pellegrino d’Auxerre, built in late Baroque style, and the renowned thermal baths, known for the high quality of their wellness and therapeutic treatments. .

Moreover, the excellent culinary tradition of the Val Brembana is sure to satisfy every taste. Among the typical dishes and dairy products to be savoured in the peaceful mountain huts are casoncelli, polenta taragna, typical cheese like taleggio, Branzi, and stracchino of Orobie. 

Varenna, a picturesque fishing village adorned with bright polychrome hues and charming pastel-colored houses, is another gem nestled along the Eastern shore of Lake Como. This enchanting town, rich in artistic and architectural masterpieces, culture, and history, is accessible from Milan in approximately two hours. It's one of the most beautiful places to visit on a day trip, and it’s the perfect destination for those who wish to relax while admiring the fairy-tale lakefront landscapes.

One of the most evocative and captivating spots is the romantic Lovers' Promenade, a characteristic pedestrian path that extends from the boat dock to the old town center. Riva Grande, a spectacular lake inlet, offers another must-see view. Points of interest include the Church of Saint George, whose interior hosts magnificent 13th-century frescoes and a marble-paved floor, and the charming Villa Monastero, originally a Cistercian abbey and later designated as a patrician residence. It includes alluring treasures such as the Botanical Garden.

You could also explore Villa Cipressi, a complex of historic buildings overlooking the lake, and walk along the charming Greenway dei Patriarchi. Don’t miss the spectacular Castello di Vezio, set in a privileged position above the lake and surrounded by centuries-old olive trees.

The diverse local cuisine offers true delights: perch risotto, lavarello in carpione, misultin with polenta, and traditional cheeses such as semuda, goat’s gorgonzola, and herb-flavoured zincarlin. The typical desserts are cutizza, a delectable Como pancake made with flour, eggs, water, and milk, and miascia, a treat made with a mixture of amaretto biscuits, raisins, and pine nuts.

Just a short distance from Milan and easily accessible by car or train, Bergamo is another destination worth exploring during your day trips from Milan. This magnificent city, nestled at the slopes of the Orobian Pre-Alps, Is divided into two distinct areas: the Upper Town (Città Alta), which represents the historic centre, and the Lower Town (Città Bassa), a modern and vibrant area encompassing ancient hamlets.

Bergamo is built upon seven picturesque hills. It's sprinkled with steps and its streets are sprinkled with step cobblestone-covered passages which increase its charm. Thanks to its extraordinary historical, artistic, and cultural heritage, it was honored with the prestigious title of Italian Capital of Culture in 2023 (together with Brescia).

Starting your tour from the old town and taking the funicular up to the Città Alta, you can admire the 16th-century Venetian Walls and iconic landmarks such as Piazza Vecchia with the Campanone, the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the Cathedral, the 14th-century Rocca and the medieval convent of San Francesco. The nearby Palazzo del Podestà tells the story of the city between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

In the Città Bassa, redesigned in the 19th century by Marcello Piacentini, you can visit the Lorenzo Rota Botanical Garden, perfect for a scenic break. Or, if you’re passionate about history and culture, don’t miss the Accademia Carrara, the Donizetti Museum, the Archaeological Museum and the GAMeC, the Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art. For shopping and local flavours, head to Porta Nuova, the Sentierone and Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe, full of boutiques, shops and food specialties.