Milan Itinerary With Day Trips: 7 Days of City & Northern Italy (2025)

Here’s something most travelers don’t realize about Milan: it’s not just a destination—it’s the perfect launchpad for exploring some of Northern Italy’s most spectacular places. After living here for years and making these trips countless times, I can tell you that Milan’s central location and excellent train connections make it the ideal base for a week-long adventure combining urban culture with regional exploration.

In just an hour or two by train (or car), you can be standing on the shores of Lake Como, wandering medieval streets in Bergamo, sipping Franciacorta sparkling wine in vineyard-covered hills, or exploring Juliet’s balcony in Verona. The best part? You never have to change hotels or drag your luggage around—just day trip out and return to Milan each evening.

This Milan itinerary with day trips gives you the complete Northern Italy experience: world-class art and fashion in Milan, stunning lakes and mountains, historic cities, and even wine country. I’ve structured this as a 7-day plan, but you can easily adapt it to 5 or 10 days based on your schedule.

Whether you’re traveling by train or renting a car for certain days, this guide covers everything you need to know about the best day trips from Milan and how to maximize your time in this incredible region.

Ready to discover Milan and beyond? Let’s go!

Why Milan is Perfect for Day Trips

I’ve lived in Milan for years, and one thing I always tell visitors: this city is the perfect base for exploring Northern Italy. From Milano Centrale station, I can reach Lake Como in 40 minutes, Bergamo in 50 minutes, Verona in an hour, and countless destinations within two hours. High-speed and regional trains run frequently, making day trips effortless.

The practical advantages are huge. You will keep one hotel for your entire stay instead of constantly packing and moving. Milan offers every accommodation option at better prices than tourist-heavy lake towns. After a full day exploring Lake Como or Bergamo, you will return to your comfortable Milan base. Plus, you can see Milan’s major sights in 2-3 days, leaving the rest of the week for regional adventures.

This balance is what I love most—sophisticated city culture plus easy access to lakes, mountains, and medieval towns. You get world-class museums and restaurants in Milan, then escape to nature and historic villages, all from one convenient base.

7-Day Milan Itinerary Overview

Day 1-2: Milan City Exploration Spend your first two days getting to know Milan—historic center, art museums, hidden neighborhoods, and the iconic sights. This gives you a solid foundation before venturing out.

Day 3: Lake Como Day Trip Escape to Italy’s most famous lake for stunning Alpine scenery, charming towns, and that dolce vita lakefront atmosphere.

Day 4: Bergamo Day Trip Explore the medieval walled city perched on a hilltop with incredible art, architecture, and views.

Day 5: Milan Neighborhoods & Culture Return focus to Milan’s lesser-known neighborhoods, markets, and cultural experiences you might have missed.

Day 6: Verona, Lake Garda & Sirmione Choose between romantic Verona (Romeo & Juliet’s city) or the stunning Lake Garda peninsula of Sirmione—or combine both if you rent a car.

Day 7: Flexible Options Depending on interests: Franciacorta wine region, Turin, more Milan, or even push to Cinque Terre if you’re ambitious.

This structure gives you variety—city days alternate with day trips, preventing burnout and keeping energy high. You’re never doing two consecutive long travel days, and you have built-in flexibility for weather, energy levels, or discovered interests.

Customization tips: Love lakes? Add another lake day. Wine enthusiast? Prioritize Franciacorta. Art-focused? Spend more time in Milan’s museums. This framework adapts to your preferences while maintaining a logical flow.

Ready for the day-by-day breakdown? Let me walk you through exactly what to do, see, and eat each day.

Day 1: Milan Historic Center

Your first day focuses on Milan’s iconic center—the postcard sights that define the city. Start early to maximize time and beat crowds.

Morning: Duomo & Galleria

Begin at Piazza del Duomo around 9 AM. Milan’s cathedral is one of the world’s largest Gothic churches, and its facade is absolutely stunning—135 spires, 3,400 statues, and intricate details everywhere you look.

Duomo tickets: You have several options ranging from €10 (just the cathedral interior) to €35+ (everything including rooftop). My recommendation? The rooftop is absolutely spectacular—walking among the Gothic spires with 360-degree views over Milan and the Alps in the distance is genuinely breathtaking and worth every euro.

Book online in advance to skip lines. Budget 1.5-2 hours total.

Walk through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the stunning 19th-century shopping arcade connecting the Duomo to La Scala. The iron-and-glass architecture is magnificent, and yes, you can do the tourist tradition of spinning on the bull mosaic for good luck. Window shop the luxury stores (unless you’ve got deep pockets) and grab an espresso—though skip the overpriced cafés inside the Galleria itself.

Afternoon: Castello Sforzesco & Parco Sempione

Walk or metro (M1/M2 to Cadorna) to Castello Sforzesco, Milan’s massive brick fortress. The exterior and courtyards are free to explore. The museums inside house Michelangelo’s final sculpture (Rondanini Pietà) and other art—worth it if you’re interested, skippable if you’re museumed out.

Behind the castle, Parco Sempione offers a perfect afternoon break—47 hectares of green space with tree-lined paths, a small lake, and the Arco della Pace (Peace Arch) at the far end. Walk to the arch, take photos, and enjoy the park atmosphere. If you want, climb the Torre Branca observation tower (€6) for city views.

Evening: Brera & Navigli

Late afternoon, explore the Brera district—charming cobblestone streets, art galleries, antique shops, and café-lined piazzas. This is Milan’s artistic heart. Even just wandering is lovely.

For dinner and evening, head to Navigli (the canal district). Take metro M2 to Porta Genova. Walk the canal-side streets, browse shops and galleries, then settle in for aperitivo (6:30-9 PM)—the Milanese tradition where you order a drink (€8-12) and access an unlimited buffet. This essentially becomes dinner. My picks: Bar Rita, Ugo, or Cantina della Vetra for good food spreads.

Practical Day 1 Tips

Getting from the airport: Malpensa Express train (€15, 50 min to Centrale) or Malpensa Shuttle bus (€10, to Centrale). From Linate, bus 73 (€2.20, 25 min to San Babila metro). Book accommodation near the Centrale station or in the historic center for convenience.

Transport: Buy a 24-hour ATM pass (€7) covering unlimited metro, tram, and bus. You’ll use it throughout the day.

Where to stay: Near Centrale station for train access to day trips, or in Porta Venezia/Brera for neighborhood charm. Budget: €40-60/night hostels. Mid-range: €90-130 hotels. See the accommodation section for specific recommendations.

Day 2: Milan Art & Hidden Gems

Day two dives deeper into Milan’s cultural offerings and takes you to neighborhoods tourists often miss.

Morning: The Last Supper & San Maurizio

Start with The Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie—Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece painted on the refectory wall. This requires advance booking (weeks or months ahead). Viewings are strict 15-minute time slots. Book here as soon as you know your dates.

If you can’t get Last Supper tickets: Don’t stress! Many locals have never seen it either, and Milan has plenty of other incredible art. Instead, spend more time at other museums or neighborhoods.

After Santa Maria delle Grazie, walk 10 minutes to San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore—a church locals call “Milan’s Sistine Chapel.” It’s covered floor-to-ceiling in stunning Renaissance frescoes by Bernardino Luini, and it’s completely free. Go between 3-5 PM for the best light. This might actually be more impressive than the Last Supper, and you can sit here as long as you want without time limits.

Afternoon: Choose Your Focus

Option A: Pinacoteca di Brera (€15, or free first Sunday of the month). Milan’s premier art museum with works by Caravaggio, Mantegna, Raphael, and other Italian masters. Budget 2-3 hours for the collection.

Pinacoteca di Brera is worth visiting if you love Renaissance art, but even if you don’t go in, peek into the stunning courtyard—it’s completely free and features a bronze Napoleon statue at its center, surrounded by beautiful two-story arcades.

Option B: Modern Art Route

• Museo del Novecento: 20th-century Italian art in a spectacular building overlooking the Duomo
• Triennale Design Museum: Contemporary design and architecture
• Perfect for those less interested in Renaissance art

Option C: Neighborhoods

• Isola district: Street art, hipster cafés, local atmosphere
• Corso Como: Design district, 10 Corso Como concept store
• Chinatown (Via Paolo Sarpi): Authentic multicultural Milan

I’d personally combine a museum morning with neighborhood exploration in the afternoon. After museums, your brain needs a break—walking Isola’s street art-covered streets or browsing Corso Como’s design shops provides a perfect contrast.

Evening: Traditional Milanese Dinner

Tonight, skip aperitivo and have a proper sit-down dinner at a traditional trattoria. Try classic Milanese dishes:

• Risotto alla Milanese: Saffron risotto, creamy and golden
• Ossobuco: Braised veal shank, rich and tender
• Cotoletta alla Milanese: Breaded veal cutlet, Milan’s version of schnitzel

Restaurant recommendations: Trattoria Masuelli San Marco (near Porta Romana), Ratanà (Isola), or any trattoria with handwritten menus in residential neighborhoods. Budget €25-35 per person with wine.

Day 2 Practical Tips

Last Supper booking: Book the moment you know your dates. If sold out, check weekly for cancellations—they do happen. Alternative: Book a guided tour that includes Last Supper access (more expensive but guaranteed entry).

Photography: The Last Supper strictly forbids photos. San Maurizio allows photography—take advantage of this free opportunity!

Pace yourself: Don’t try to see every museum. Choose one or two, then balance with walking, cafés, and just soaking in the atmosphere. Milan rewards slow exploration.

Day 3: Lake Como Day Trip

Time for your first day trip! Lake Como is Italy’s most glamorous lake, backed by the Alps and dotted with elegant villas. It’s about an hour from Milan and makes a perfect day excursion.

How to Get to Lake Como From Milan

Take a train from Milano Centrale to Como San Giovanni station. Trains run every 30-60 minutes; the journey takes 40-60 minutes, depending on train type.

Ticket costs: Regional trains (€5-8 each way, slower) or high-speed trains (€15-20 each way, faster). For Como, the regional train is fine—it’s not far enough to justify high-speed prices. Buy tickets at the station or use Omio app to get the best rates.

Departure timing: Catch a 9-10 AM train to arrive mid-morning. This gives you the full day before returning in the evening.

In Como Town

From Como San Giovanni station, it’s a 10-minute walk to the lakefront and historic center.

What to see in Como:

• Lakefront promenade: Stunning views, elegant villas, swans in the water
• Piazza Cavour: Main square with cafés and boat docks
• Como Cathedral (Duomo): Beautiful Gothic-Renaissance church, free entry
• Historic center: Narrow medieval streets perfect for wandering
• Villa Olmo: Neoclassical villa with gardens (sometimes hosts exhibitions)

Funicular to Brunate: Take the funicular railway (€3.20 each way, 7 minutes) up to Brunate village for panoramic views over Como and the lake. It’s spectacular and worth the modest cost. At the top, walk to the lighthouse viewpoint for the best photo opportunity.

Boat Tours & Bellagio

Here’s the dilemma: Bellagio (the famous “Pearl of the Lake”) requires a ferry from Como (1 hour each way). Adding Bellagio makes it a very full day, and you’ll spend significant time on boats.

My recommendation: Unless you’re a huge lake person, skip Bellagio for a day trip. You won’t have enough time to properly enjoy it, and the boat schedule stress isn’t worth it. Instead, thoroughly enjoy Como town, Brunate, and the main lake views. Quality over rushed quantity.

If you insist on Bellagio: Take the 10 AM fast ferry from Como, spend 2-3 hours in Bellagio, return on the 4-5 PM ferry. This leaves little time for Como itself, and you’ll feel rushed.

Lunch in Como

Como has many lakefront restaurants, though they’re tourist-priced (€15-35 per person). Better value: grab pizza al taglio or panini from shops in the historic center (€5-8), then picnic by the lake. Or find a local trattoria one street back from the waterfront, where locals actually eat (€15-20 for a full meal).

Return to Milan

At the end of your Milan day trip to Lake Como, catch a late afternoon train back to Milan (5-7 PM range). You’ll be back in Milan for dinner around 7-8 PM. Relax tonight—you’ve had a full day!

Lake Como Day Trip Practical Tips

What to bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, water bottle, camera. The weather can be cooler by the lake—bring a light jacket.

Timing: Como is manageable in 5-6 hours. More if you add Bellagio or other villages.

Crowds: Como gets busy in summer (July-August) and on weekends. May-June and September are ideal for smaller crowds and good weather.

Other Como options: Varenna and Menaggio are also lovely lake towns reachable by train + ferry, but they add complexity to a day trip. Save them for a dedicated Lake Como multi-day visit.

Day 4: Bergamo Day Trip

Bergamo is one of Northern Italy’s most underrated treasures—a medieval walled city sitting on a hilltop with Venetian architecture, incredible art, and stunning views. It’s close to Milan (50 minutes by train) and absolutely worth a full day.

I have to confess—Bergamo Alta completely stole my heart. The first time I stepped off that funicular into the medieval upper city, I was absolutely mesmerized. The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore took my breath away with those incredible frescoes covering every surface—I sat there for 30 minutes just staring at the ceiling.

But what really got me was wandering those narrow cobblestone alleys, getting deliberately lost, and stumbling into tiny family-run trattorias where locals were having lunch. The food was not only cheaper than Milan, but so much more authentic.

I found myself returning to Bergamo again and again and remember why I fell in love with this city in the first place. There’s something magical about this place where you can sit in a centuries-old piazza with a €2 espresso and feel like you’ve traveled back in time.

How to Get to Bergamo?

From Milano Centrale, trains to Bergamo run frequently (1-2 per hour). The journey takes 50 minutes to 1 hour.

Ticket costs: Regional trains (€5-7 each way) or high-speed (€10-15 each way). For Bergamo, regional is fine—save your money. Buy tickets at the station or on the Omio app.

Aim for a 9-10 AM departure to maximize your time.

Bergamo Città Bassa & Funicular

Bergamo has two distinct parts: Città Bassa (lower city, modern) and Città Alta (upper city, medieval). The upper city is what you came for.

From Bergamo train station, take bus 1 or 1A (€1.35, about 10 minutes) to the funicular station. The funicular railway (€1.35 each way) climbs the hillside to Città Alta—a charming 3-minute ride with great views.

Alternatively, you can walk up, but it’s steep and takes 20+ minutes. Save your energy—take the funicular.

Bergamo Città Alta

Once you step off the funicular, you’re in medieval Italy. Città Alta is entirely pedestrianized (cars are banned) and wrapped in 16th-century Venetian walls that you can walk along.

Must-see spots:

Piazza Vecchia: The heart of Città Alta, surrounded by stunning medieval and Renaissance buildings. This is one of Italy’s most beautiful squares—just sit and absorb it.

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore: Absolutely SPECTACULAR church with an incredible Baroque interior covered in frescoes, tapestries, and marquetry. The wooden choir stalls are masterpieces. Free entry—don’t miss it!

Cappella Colleoni: Next to the basilica, this smaller Renaissance chapel is gorgeously decorated with colored marble and frescoes. Also free.

Venetian Walls: Walk sections of the 6-kilometer walls for panoramic views over the modern city and surrounding countryside. You can access them from multiple points around the upper city. Perfect for photos and getting perspective on Bergamo’s layout.

Rocca di Bergamo: The fortress at the highest point offers even better views. Free to enter, and you can walk the ramparts.

Via Colleoni: The main street through Città Alta, lined with shops, cafés, and historic buildings. Perfect for strolling and getting lost in side alleys.

Lunch in Città Alta

Città Alta restaurants are tourist-pricy (€15-25 per person), but quality is generally good because locals dine here too.

What to try: Bergamo has distinct local specialties:

• Casoncelli: Local ravioli filled with meat, served with butter and sage
• Polenta: Bergamo-style is creamy and often served with cheese or meat
• Stracciatella gelato: Bergamo claims to have invented this flavor

Budget lunch: Grab supplies from a small alimentari (grocery) shop and picnic on the walls with a view. Or find a small osteria on a side street away from Piazza Vecchia.

Città Bassa: Worth It?

The lower, modern city has some nice shopping streets and the Academy Carrara (art museum), but most visitors skip it to maximize upper city time. If you’re an art lover, Academy Carrara (€10) has excellent Italian Renaissance works and deserves 1-2 hours. Otherwise, stay in Città Alta.

Return to Milan

Head back down via funicular late afternoon (4-6 PM range). Catch your train back to Milan, arriving early evening.

Tonight in Milan, you might want a lighter evening after a full day out—maybe just aperitivo and early to bed, or find a cozy neighborhood restaurant near your hotel.

Bergamo Practical Tips

Time needed: 4-6 hours in Città Alta is ideal. You can see highlights in 3 hours if rushed, but you’ll want more time to wander and soak it in.

Crowds: Far less crowded than Como or major Tuscan cities. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.

Weather: Being on a hilltop means it can be windier and cooler than Milan. Bring layers.

Photography: Bring your camera—Bergamo is incredibly photogenic from every angle.

Day 5: Milan Neighborhoods & Culture

After two days of travel, today brings you back to Milan to explore neighborhoods and experiences you haven’t yet covered. This is your flexible catch-up and deep-dive day.

Morning: Porta Venezia & Villa Reale

Start in Porta Venezia, one of Milan’s most charming residential neighborhoods. This area has beautiful Liberty-style (Italian Art Nouveau) architecture—look up at the buildings along Corso Buenos Aires and the streets around Piazza Oberdan.

Villa Reale Gardens (Giardini della Villa Reale) offers a peaceful morning stroll through formal gardens attached to the Royal Villa (now the Modern Art Gallery, or GAM). The gardens are free and lovely—much quieter than Parco Sempione.

GAM (Galleria d’Arte Moderna) inside Villa Reale is worth a visit if you like 19th-century Italian art (€5 entry, or free on the first Sunday). Otherwise, just enjoy the gardens and architecture.

Walk through Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli, Milan’s oldest park, right next door. The Natural History Museum and Planetarium are here if you’re interested (both cheap entry around €5).

Afternoon: Choose Your Adventure

Option A: Museum Day if you missed any major museums, catch up now:

• Museo del Novecento (20th-century art)
• Triennale Design Museum
• Armani/Silos (fashion museum)
• Any others on your list

Option B: Shopping & Markets

• Corso Buenos Aires: Long shopping street with every Italian and international brand at normal prices (not designer)
• Navigli vintage shops: Saturday is especially good for browsing
• Mercato Comunale (if Tuesday or Saturday): Covered market with food, produce, and local life
• Viale Papiniano market (Saturday mornings): Clothing, accessories, street market atmosphere

Option C: More Neighborhoods

• NoLo (North of Loreto): Emerging creative neighborhood, street art, multicultural food
• Porta Romana: Residential charm, local restaurants, authentic atmosphere
• Città Studi: University area, cheap food, bookshops, student energy

Option D: Relaxation & Parks

• Spend the afternoon reading in Parco Sempione or Villa Reale gardens
• Long lunch at a sidewalk café
• Slow wandering without agenda
• Catch up on postcards, journaling, or just decompressing

Evening: Aperitivo in a New Neighborhood

You’ve done Navigli—tonight try aperitivo somewhere different:

• Isola: Young, creative crowd, local bars
• Porta Venezia: More sophisticated, mixed crowd
• Corso Como: Trendy, design-focused, slightly pricier

Or splurge on a nice dinner at a trattoria you’ve been wanting to try. This is your second-to-last night—make it count!

Optional: La Scala Performance

If you’re interested in opera or ballet, Teatro alla Scala is one of the world’s most prestigious opera houses. Performance tickets range from €30 to 300+, depending on seats and production. Book far in advance at teatroallascala.org.

Can’t get tickets? The La Scala Museum (€15) lets you peek into the theater during daytime and see costumes, instruments, and opera history.

Day 5 Flexibility

This day intentionally has no fixed plan because everyone’s interests differ, and you might have missed things earlier in the week. Use it to:

• Revisit a neighborhood you loved
• Finally, see that museum you skipped
• Shop for gifts and souvenirs
• Take it easy if you’re tired
• Book a food tour or cooking class
• Whatever feels right!

Day 6: Verona, Lake Garda & Sirmione Day Trip

Day six offers exciting choices: romantic Verona, stunning Sirmione on Lake Garda, or even combine both if you rent a car. Let me break down each option.

Option A: Verona (Best by Train)

How to Get to Verona? High-speed train from Milano Centrale to Verona Porta Nuova (1 hour 10 minutes, €15-35 depending on train type). Trains run frequently. Book in advance for better prices.

In Verona:

This is Romeo and Juliet’s city—romantic, historic, and filled with incredible Roman and medieval architecture.

Arena di Verona: Massive Roman amphitheater still used for opera performances. You can tour the interior and climb into the seating areas. It’s one of the best-preserved Roman arenas in Italy.

Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta): Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, the balcony isn’t actually related to Shakespeare’s fictional characters. But it’s a quick visit, and the courtyard is free to enter. Touch Juliet’s statue for good luck (apparently).

Piazza delle Erbe: Beautiful medieval square lined with cafés and a morning market. Surrounded by frescoed buildings and the Torre dei Lamberti (€8 to climb for city views).

Ponte Pietra: Ancient Roman bridge over the Adige River with great views. Walk across and explore the riverside.

Castelvecchio: 14th-century castle housing an art museum (€9) with impressive medieval and Renaissance works. Even if you skip the museum, the fortress exterior and bridge are photogenic.

Best Verona walking route: Arena → Juliet’s House → Piazza delle Erbe → Via Mazzini shopping street → Ponte Pietra → Castelvecchio → back to the station. This covers highlights in 4-5 hours.

Lunch: Verona has excellent restaurants. Try risotto all’Amarone (risotto made with local Amarone wine) or pastissada de caval (horse meat stew—traditional Veronese dish, surprisingly good). Budget €15-35 per person.

Return: Late afternoon train back to Milan (5-7 PM range).

Option B: Lake Garda & Sirmione (Better by Car, Possible by Train)

Getting There (by train): Train from Milano Centrale to Desenzano del Garda (1 hour, €8-15). From Desenzano station, take bus LN026 to Sirmione (15 minutes, €2-3). Buses run frequently, but check the schedule.

Getting There (by car): Rent a car in Milan (€40-70/day). Drive to Sirmione (1.5 hours). Having a car gives you the flexibility to explore multiple Lake Garda towns and return via scenic routes.

Sirmione Highlights:

Sirmione occupies a narrow peninsula jutting into Lake Garda, making it one of Italy’s most scenic lake towns. The medieval center is pedestrianized, surrounded by the lake on three sides.

Scaliger Castle (Castello Scaligero): Stunning 13th-century castle literally surrounded by water, with fortified walls and towers. You can tour inside (€6) and walk the ramparts for incredible lake views. Very photogenic!

Historic Center: Narrow cobblestone streets packed with shops, restaurants, and gelato places. Wander and get lost—the whole peninsula is walkable in 30 minutes, but you’ll want to linger.

Grotte di Catullo: Roman ruins of a massive villa on the peninsula’s tip. The ruins themselves are interesting, and the olive grove setting with lake views is spectacular. Budget 1-1.5 hours.

Thermal Baths: Sirmione is famous for thermal spa waters. Aquaria Thermal SPA (€40-60 depending on time) offers pools, saunas, and treatments if you want a relaxing afternoon.

Lakefront: Multiple spots to sit by the water, swim (bring swimsuit!), or just enjoy views. The water is incredibly clear and turquoise.

Lunch: Lakefront restaurants are beautiful but pricey (€20-35 per person). For budget: grab gelato and picnic by the water, or find trattorias one street back from the lake (€15-20).

Time needed: Sirmione deserves 4-5 hours minimum to explore without rushing. If adding Desenzano or other towns, budget a full day.

Option C: Combine Verona + Sirmione (Car Required)

The ambitious option: Rent a car for the day and visit both.

Route:

• Drive to Verona first ( 2 hours from Milan)
• Spend 3 hours in Verona (hit the highlights)
• Drive to Sirmione (30-40 minutes from Verona)
• Spend 2-3 hours in Sirmione
• Drive back to Milan (1h45min)

Total: Long day with about 4.5 hours driving + 5-6 hours sightseeing. Doable but tiring. Only attempt if you’re comfortable with a full day and have energy.

Car advantages:

• Total flexibility on timing
• Can stop at viewpoints along the way
• Access to both destinations comfortably
• No train schedules to worry about

Car disadvantages:

• Parking challenges (especially Sirmione—park outside the center and walk in)
• Driving stress vs. relaxing on the train
• More expensive than the train for solo travelers

Day 6 Recommendation

• If you love history/architecture: Choose Verona by train
• If you love lakes/nature/relaxation: Choose Sirmione (car ideally, or train + bus)
• If you’re with a group and renting a car anyway: Combine both

Personally, I’d pick Verona for the incredible history and manageable train logistics. But if you want lake time and haven’t gotten enough from Como, Sirmione is absolutely stunning and worth prioritizing.

Day 7: Flexible Day Trip Options

Your final full day offers several directions depending on your interests, energy levels, and whether you want another day trip or more Milan time.

Option A: Franciacorta Wine Region (Car Essential)

Franciacorta is Italy’s answer to Champagne—a region producing exceptional sparkling wine (Franciacorta DOCG) from vineyards rolling across gentle hills between Milan and Lake Iseo. It’s about 1.5 hours from Milan and makes a perfect day trip for wine lovers.

How to Get to Franciacorta? By car: Rent a car (necessary for winery visits). Drive to Franciacorta region—aim for towns like Erbusco, Corte Franca, or Passirano. Having a car lets you visit multiple wineries.

By train: Take the train to Rovato or Brescia, then taxi to wineries (expensive and limiting). Better: Book an organized Franciacorta wine tour from Milan (€80-150 per person, including transport, tastings, and lunch).

What to Expect:

Winery Visits: Most wineries require advance booking. Visits typically include cellar tours and tastings of 3-5 wines (€25-75 per person). Some wineries: Berlucchi, Ca’ del Bosco, Ferghettina, Contadi Castaldi.

Scenery: Beautiful vineyard landscapes, historic villages, and views toward Lake Iseo and the Alps. It’s gorgeous countryside, perfect for scenic drives.

Lunch: Many wineries have restaurants serving local Lombardy cuisine paired with their wines. Budget €30-50 per person for winery lunch. Alternatively, stop in Erbusco village for more modest trattorias.

Lake Iseo: On your way to/from Franciacorta, you can detour to Lake Iseo—a quieter, less touristy lake than Como or Garda. The town of Iseo is charming for a quick walk.

Time needed: Full day. Plan to visit 2-3 wineries with lunch in between. Leave Milan by 9 AM, return by 7-8 PM.

Who it’s for: Wine enthusiasts, couples, and anyone wanting beautiful countryside and excellent Italian sparkling wine. Not ideal for families with young kids or those disinterested in wine.

Option B: Turin (2 Hours by Train)

How to Get to Turin? High-speed train from Milano Centrale to Torino Porta Nuova (1 hour, €15-30). Frequent departures.

In Turin:

Turin is an elegant city with grand baroque palaces, arcaded streets, and world-class museums. It’s also famous for chocolate and coffee culture.

Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio): One of the world’s best Egyptian collections outside Egypt. Absolutely fascinating and worth 2-3 hours (€18 entry).

Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale): Opulent royal residence of the Savoy kings. Tours are available, and the palace gardens are free.

Mole Antonelliana: Turin’s iconic tower, now housing the Cinema Museum. You can ride to the top for panoramic city views.

Arcaded streets: Turin has 18 kilometers of covered arcades—perfect for window shopping regardless of the weather.

Coffee & chocolate: Turin is Italy’s capital of both. Stop at historic cafés like Caffè Mulassano or Caffè San Carlo. Buy gianduja chocolates (hazelnut chocolate) from specialty shops.

Time needed: Full day. Turin deserves 6-8 hours to see highlights comfortably.

Option C: More Milan (Relaxed Final Day)

Maybe you’re tired of day trips and want a leisurely final day in Milan:

Morning: Revisit favorite neighborhoods, final shopping for gifts, or missed museums

Afternoon: Long lunch at a restaurant you’ve been wanting to try, followed by park time with a book

Evening: Special farewell dinner at a nice restaurant, or return to your favorite aperitivo spot

Activities you might have missed:

• Monza: Just 20 minutes by train, home to the famous Formula 1 circuit and a beautiful royal park. I go here when I need serious green space—the park is enormous and perfect for cycling or long walks.
• Final shopping: Via Torino for affordable fashion, Corso Buenos Aires for mainstream brands, or vintage hunting in Navigli
• Cooking class: Book a Milanese cooking class where you learn to make risotto alla Milanese or fresh pasta (€60-100)
• Just relax: Sometimes the best travel day is doing very little—café hopping, people watching, and soaking in the atmosphere

I remember my first week in Milan—by day seven, I was exhausted from trying to see everything. Now, when friends visit, I always build in one “slow day” where we just wander with no agenda. Some of my best Milan memories come from those unplanned afternoons discovering a hidden courtyard or stumbling into a neighborhood festival.

Option D: Cinque Terre (Very Ambitious)

Getting There: Train from Milano Centrale to La Spezia Centrale (3 hours), then local train to Cinque Terre villages. It’s doable, but makes for a VERY long day (6+ hours travel time total).

My honest opinion: I’ve done this as a day trip, and while it’s technically possible, it’s exhausting and rushed. You spend more time on trains than in the villages. Cinque Terre deserves an overnight stay minimum. Save it for another trip or accept you’ll see one or two villages quickly before heading back.

If you insist: Leave Milan by 7 AM train, arrive La Spezia around 10 AM. Visit Riomaggiore and Vernazza (the most scenic villages), have lunch, catch the 4-5 PM train back to Milan, arriving 8-9 PM. Budget €30-40 for trains.

Option E: Swiss Day Trip (Lugano)

With a passport, you can cross into Switzerland for the day. Lugano is the closest Swiss city (1 hour by train, €20-35 each way).

I’ve done this Milan day trip to Switzerland a few times when friends visit and want to “add Switzerland” to their trip. Lugano is beautiful—lakefront promenades, Swiss-Italian culture, and expensive coffee (€5-6 for an espresso reminds you that you’re in Switzerland!). But honestly? If you have limited time, the Italian lakes are just as stunning and much cheaper. Save Switzerland for a dedicated visit.

How to Choose Your Day 7

Go to Franciacorta if: You love wine, want beautiful countryside, and can rent a car or book a tour.

Go to Turin if: You love history, museums, and want to see another major Italian city.

Stay in Milan if: You’re tired, want to catch missed sights, or prefer a relaxed final day.

Skip Cinque Terre and Swiss options unless: You have unlimited energy, love train travel, or are completing a bucket list.

Personally, I’d choose Franciacorta. The wineries are world-class but not yet touristy, the landscape is gorgeous, and sipping sparkling wine in vineyard-covered hills is the perfect way to end a Northern Italy week.

Transportation Guide for Day Trips

Train Travel

Train Basics:

Italy has two main train companies: Trenitalia (state railway) and Italo (private high-speed). Both are reliable and comfortable.

Regional trains (Regionale) are slower but much cheaper. They stop at every station and don’t require reservations. Perfect for short trips like Como, Bergamo, or Desenzano.

High-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Italotreno) are fast, comfortable, and require reservations. Worth it for longer distances like Verona, Turin, or Venice.

Booking tips:

• Book high-speed trains in advance (weeks ahead) for 50-60% cheaper fares
• Regional trains have fixed prices—no advantage to booking early
• Download the Trenitalia app and Italo app
• The Omio app is useful for comparing both companies’ schedules and prices

Validation: High-speed tickets are automatically validated when you book. Regional paper tickets MUST be validated in the yellow/green machines before boarding—forget this and you risk a €50 fine!

From my experience living here, I almost always take regional trains for anything under an hour (Como, Bergamo). The time difference is minimal, the scenery is actually better from slower trains, and the savings add up. For Verona or Turin, high-speed makes sense if you book ahead.

Milano Centrale Station

Milan’s main station is huge, impressive, and can be overwhelming. Here’s what I’ve learned:

Layout: The station has multiple levels. High-speed trains depart from the upper tracks (binari 1-24), regional trains from various levels. Check your binario (platform) on the departure boards—they’re announced 10-15 minutes before departure.

Arrive early: I recommend 15-20 minutes before departure for regional trains, 20-30 minutes for high-speed (they do security checks). The station is big, and finding your platform takes time.

Facilities: Good coffee bars (avoid the McDonald’s—get a real Italian coffee!), newsstand, pharmacy, luggage storage (€6-12 depending on size), and clean bathrooms (€1 to use).

Safety: Generally safe, but watch your belongings. The area directly outside the station has some sketchy characters—walk purposefully and keep bags close.

Car Rental for Milan Day Trips: When and How

When to Rent a Car:

After doing these trips dozens of times, here’s when I’d rent a car:

Definitely rent for:

• Franciacorta wine region (no good public transport to wineries)
• Lake Garda exploration (multiple towns in one day)
• Combining Verona + Sirmione
• Multiple small towns not on train lines
• When you want total freedom from schedules

Stick with trains for:

• Lake Como (parking nightmare, train drops you perfectly)
• Bergamo (train + funicular is easier than driving and parking uphill)
• Verona solo (train is faster and drops you in the city center)
• Solo travelers (car costs aren’t worth it for one person)
• Anyone uncomfortable with Italian driving

Car Rental Practical Info:

Where to rent: Airport has most options (Hertz, Europcar, Avis, Budget). City locations also exist, but returning to the airport is most convenient. I always use DiscoverCars to get the best car rental deals.

Cost: €40-70 per day, depending on car size, automatic vs manual, and season. Automatic transmissions cost 20-30% more and are harder to find.

What you need:

• Valid driver’s license (from your country)
• International Driving Permit (technically required, sometimes not checked, but always get one to avoid issues)
• Credit card in the driver’s name for deposit
• Minimum age 21-25, depending on the company

Insurance: Italian insurance is mandatory (included in rental). I always add extra collision coverage (€15-20/day) because Italian roads are narrow and accidents happen. Worth the peace of mind.

ZTL Zones – THIS IS CRITICAL:

Many Italian historic centers have ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato)—restricted traffic zones where only residents can drive. Cameras photograph every license plate entering. If you drive into a ZTL, you’ll be fined €100-200 weeks later.
Learn more about how to avoid Italy ZTL zones here

Tolls: Italian highways (autostrada) charge tolls. Take a ticket when you enter, pay cash or card when you exit. Milan to Verona costs about €10-15 in tolls. Budget this in.

Gas: €1.70-2.00 per liter (about €70-80 to fill a tank). Italy is expensive for gas!

Car vs Train: My Recommendations by Destination

Lake Como: Train wins every time. Como parking is expensive and limited. The train drops you at the perfect starting point, and you can walk everywhere.

Bergamo: Train + funicular is brilliant. Driving up to Città Alta is stressful (narrow roads, limited parking, possible ZTL fines). The train is easier.

Verona: If going solo, train wins (faster, drops you in the center, no parking stress). If visiting Verona + Sirmione together, the car makes sense.

Lake Garda/Sirmione: A Car gives much more flexibility. You can visit multiple towns (Sirmione, Desenzano, Salò) in one day. Train + bus works, but limits you.

Franciacorta: Car is essential. Wineries are spread across the countryside with zero public transport. Alternatively, book an organized tour.

Verona + Sirmione combo: Only possible with a car. The train requires returning to Milan between destinations.

Where to Stay in Milan

Choosing the right Milan base makes a huge difference for a day trip itinerary.

Best Areas for Day Trippers

Near Centrale Station (My Top Recommendation):

Staying within a 10-15-minute walk of Milano Centrale is ideal for day trips. You can wake up, walk to the station, and be on your way without metro transfers.

The Centrale area isn’t the prettiest part of Milan, but it’s practical. Lots of accommodation options at all price points, plenty of restaurants, and excellent transport connections.

Hotels near Centrale I like:

• Starhotels Ritz (mid-range, clean, convenient)
• NH Milano Touring (reliable chain, good location)
• Various budget hotels on Via Vitruvio and Via Tonale (€70-90/night)

Hostels near Centrale:

• Ostello Bello Grande (€40-50 dorms, social atmosphere, rooftop bar)
• Milano Centrale Hostel (€40-45 dorms, basic but clean)

Historic Center:

Staying near the Duomo is more scenic and walkable for Milan sightseeing, but you’ll need the metro to reach Centrale for day trips (10-15 minutes on the M3 line).

Great if you prioritize being in the heart of Milan and don’t mind the metro ride to the station each morning on your day trip.

Porta Venezia / Corso Buenos Aires:

Good compromise between central location and being near Centrale. This neighborhood has excellent restaurants, Liberty architecture, parks, and a local feel. Metro M1 gets you to Centrale in 10 minutes.

I have friends who live in Porta Venezia, and it’s my favorite Milan neighborhood—residential but not boring, full of life but not touristy.

Booking Tips from Personal Experience

Book 2-3 months ahead for best prices, especially if visiting during Fashion Week (February/March, September/October) or peak summer.

Read reviews carefully: Anything below 7.5/10 on Hotels.com usually has problems. Look for recent reviews (last 6 months).

Check cancellation policies: Flexible cancellation is worth a slight price premium for travel uncertainty.

Skip breakfast at hotels: Hotel breakfast costs €10-15 and isn’t worth it. Grab coffee and a cornetto at a bar for €2.50.

Consider location carefully: A cheaper hotel far from stations/metro means spending more time and money on transport. Sometimes, central is cheaper overall.

Practical Tips & Money-Saving Advice

Best Time for This Itinerary

Season recommendations:

Spring (April-May): Ideal! The weather is perfect (15-22°C), everything is open, flowers bloom, and crowds haven’t peaked. This is when I tell visiting friends to come.

Early Fall (September-October): Also excellent. Warm but not hot (15-23°C), autumn colors in the countryside, comfortable for walking. September has Fashion Week (price spike), but October is perfect.

Summer (June-August): Hot! 28-35°C makes midday uncomfortable. Many Milanese leave in August, so some restaurants close, but accommodation is cheaper. Lakes are busy. Best for heat-tolerant travelers.

Winter (December-February): Cold (2-8°C) but magical Christmas markets in December. January-February is the cheapest time for hotels. Some day trip destinations are less appealing in cold/rain. Fine if you pack warm layers.

Avoid Fashion Weeks (late Feb, mid-Sept) unless you like crowds and triple hotel prices.

What to Pack for Day Trips From Milan

From doing these trips constantly:

Essentials:

• Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll walk 15,000+ steps many days)
• Small day pack or crossbody bag
• Reusable water bottle
• Phone charger portable battery
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Light rain jacket (weather changes quickly in mountains/lakes)
• Camera (your phone is fine, but bring the real camera if you have one)

Clothing: Layers! Morning might be cool, afternoon hot, evening cool again. One light jacket or sweater always comes with me.

What NOT to bring: Large backpacks (pain on trains), too many clothes (you’ll want room for purchases), expensive jewelry (unnecessary risk).

Money-Saving Strategies

Trains: Regional trains for short trips, book high-speed far ahead for long trips. This alone saves €30-50 across multiple day trips.

Food: Panini and fruit from supermarkets make perfect train snacks and day trip lunches (€4-6 vs. €15-25 at tourist restaurants). I almost always grab supplies before leaving Milan.

Water: Refill bottles at fountains. Never buy bottled water at train stations (€2-3) when free water is everywhere.

Museums: Many are free on the first Sunday of each month. Plan accordingly if you’re museum-focused.

Aperitivo: This hack saves €10-15 per day when used strategically as a dinner replacement.

Car rental: Only rent for the days you truly need it. Unnecessary car days waste €50+ when trains work fine.

Accommodation: Staying near Centrale isn’t glamorous, but it saves time and transport costs for day trips.

Time Management Tips

Don’t over-schedule: One day trip per day is enough. Trying to squeeze in too much leads to exhaustion and missed experiences.

Build in buffer time: Trains occasionally delay, you might want to linger somewhere, or the weather might change plans. Flexibility is key.

Morning departures: I try to catch 8-9 AM trains for day trips. This gives you full days without painfully early starts.

Evening returns: Aim for 5-7 PM returns. This gets you back to Milan for dinner, avoiding super late arrivals when you’re exhausted.

Rest days matter: Day 5 staying in Milan isn’t laziness—it’s smart travel. You’ll enjoy the final days more if you’re not constantly moving.

FAQs About Milan Itinerary With Day Trips

Final Words

This Milan itinerary with day trips gives you the perfect blend of urban culture and regional exploration. You’ll experience Milan’s art, fashion, and food, then escape to stunning lakes, medieval towns, romantic cities, and wine country—all from one comfortable base.

I’ve learned that the best trips balance planning with spontaneity. Use this itinerary as your foundation, but stay flexible. That random trattoria you stumble into might serve your best meal. The village you pass on the train might deserve a future visit.

Quick reminders:

• Book The Last Supper tickets immediately
• Download offline maps and train apps
• Bring comfortable walking shoes
• Stay flexible if plans change

Milan and Northern Italy offer endless possibilities. Whether you’re here for art, lakes, medieval architecture, wine, or la dolce vita, this week delivers it all.

Now book those flights, reserve accommodation near Centrale, download Omio, and get ready for an incredible Northern Italy adventure.

Buon viaggio! 🚂

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