7 best trips from Milan by train you can’t miss

From the majestic Duomo, the largest church in Italy, to the allure of Da Vinci's "Last Supper," Milan is the beating heart of Italian culture. Thanks to Italy's efficient and comfortable rail system, day trips by train from Milan are easily accessible, making it a perfect starting point for visiting nearby cities and lakes.

Savor Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese in Parma or lounge by the shores of Lake Como. Enjoy a romantic getaway in Verona or a family-friendly cruise on Lake Garda. You're sure to find a destination of your interest with this list of the best trips from Milan by train.

Trips via train from Milan at a glance

Best destination for families: Lake Garda

Best destinations for couples: Verona and Lake Como

Best destinations for culture: Bergamo and Turin

Best destinations for food: Bologna and Parma

1. Bologna

Best for foodies and culture enthusiasts

Delve into one of the region's most vibrant culinary scenes in Bologna, home to gastronomic delights such as ragu, tortellini, cold cuts, and soft cheese served on hot tigelle (a traditional flatbread). Sign up for a cooking class to make fresh pasta with a local chef or visit a trattoria (a casual, family-run restaurant serving only local dishes) for a more intimate experience.

Getting there

Nearest station: Bologna Centrale, a one-hour trip from Milan.

2. Verona

Literature buffs and couples

While Verona is most recognized as the setting of Shakespeare's play Romeo and Juliet, the city also boasts a romantic medieval setting, delicious cuisine, and magnificent architecture, making it one of the best day trips by train from Milan for couples. Take a food tour to sample regional favorites such as Monte Veronese cheese and learn how to pair charcuterie with Verona's famous Valpolicella and Amarone wines. Pose for photos on the many bridges over the Adige River or cuddle up during an opera at the outdoor Roman arena. Shakespeare fans can visit Verona's most romantic attraction, Juliet's House, where visitors leave love notes and touch the bronze statue of Juliet to find luck in love.

Getting there

Nearest station: Verona Porta Nuova, a one-hour trip from Milan.

3. Lake Garda

Best for nature lovers and families

With its postcard-worthy scenery and charming lakeside towns, Lake Garda competes with Como for both beauty and serenity. Discover a treasure trove of architectural gems and enchanting attractions along the banks of Lake Garda on a scenic bike tour or laid-back cruise. Gardaland Resort, Italy's largest amusement park, offers thrilling rides, themed areas, and family-friendly entertainment.

Getting there

Nearest Station: Peschiera del Garda station or Desenzano del Garda-Simione station, roughly 50 minutes from Milan.

4. Bergamo

Best for culture enthusiasts and history buffs

Discover a unique blend of old and new Italian culture in the city of Bergamo, one of the best trips from Milan by train for culture enthusiasts. Stroll through the modern città bassa (lower town) and browse designer boutiques and artisanal stores selling local goods like taleggio cheese. However, the main attraction is the città alta (upper town), accessible by funicular railway, with its picturesque historical center enclosed by Renaissance-era UNESCO-listed Venetian defensive walls.

Getting there

Nearest station: Bergamo Station, a 40-minute trip from Milan.

5. Lake Como

Best for a romantic day trip

Walk the historic streets of Como, hop on a cable car in Lecco for sprawling views, or soak up the sun on the shores of a lido. No matter your choice, you can be sure to find a breathtaking photo opportunity in every corner of luxurious Lake Como. A boat tour is the best way to see Lake Como's multiple lakeshore towns and villages from a new perspective. Take the funicular up to the romantic village of Brunate, then enjoy some bubbly in opulent Bellagio. If you're feeling ambitious, lace up for a breathtaking mountain hike, like the Greenway trail from Colonno to Lenno.

Getting there

Nearest station: Como San Giovanni (Western Branch of Lake Como) or Lecco Station (Eastern Branch of Lake Como), a one-hour or 40-minute trip from Milan, respectively.

6. Parma

Best for foodies and historians

Arrive in Parma with a large appetite and good walking shoes to make the most of the city's delectable cuisine and historic landmarks. Tour a Parmigiano cheese factory or walk through Piazza Garibaldi, the main square of Parma's historic center. Sample savory Prosciutto di Parma paired with wine on a vineyard tour, or join an intimate cooking class in the welcoming home of a local. Though food is Parma's main draw, history fans will find the breathtaking Palazzo della Pilotta and Romanesque-style Cathedral of Parma equally alluring.

Getting there

Nearest station: Parma Station is just under a one-hour trip from Milan.

7. Turin

Best for history buffs and laid-back city lovers

Considered one of Italy's most underrated cities, Turin, the capital of Piedmont, deserves its place on the list of best train trips from Milan for its baroque architecture, delicious food scene, and art nouveau cafes with a French feel. Fuel up with bicerin, a traditional hot drink made of a rich concoction of espresso, hot chocolate, and milk, and save room fortajarin(egg yolk pasta) or agnolotti (pasta stuffed with meat, vegetables, and herbs). Despite its size, Turin has a relaxed feeling that encourages slow living by browsing its many book and antique stalls before sitting back in a historic cafe while sipping a local vermouth or Langhe wine. Museum enthusiasts will have too many choices, from the Museo Egizio, containing the world's oldest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, to the Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile (MAUTO), displaying 200 Italian-built vehicles.

Getting there

Nearest station: Porta Nuova, a one-hour trip from Milan.

FAQs: Train trips from Milan

Generated with the help of AI

What are some destinations you can reach by train from Milan?

Travelers can easily reach several destinations from Milan by train. Popular routes include Venice, Rome, and Florence for those exploring Italy's rich culture. For a scenic escape, head to Varenna-Esino on Lake Como. If you want to venture beyond Italy, Paris is also accessible by train from Milan.

What is the most scenic train ride from Milan?

The Bernina Express offers a breathtaking journey from Milan to Switzerland. This scenic route takes you through stunning alpine landscapes, including majestic mountains and picturesque villages. It's a perfect way to experience the region's natural beauty while enjoying a comfortable train ride.

Is a day trip to Switzerland possible from Milan?

Yes, a day trip to Switzerland is feasible from Milan. The train journey from Milano Centrale to Zurich Hauptbahnhof takes about four hours each way. With early departure and late return options, you can explore Zurich's attractions and still return to Milan on the same day. Ensure to plan your itinerary to maximize your time in Switzerland.

How long does it take to travel by train from Milan to Switzerland?

Traveling by train from Milan to Zurich typically takes about 4 hours. There are approximately 32 trains daily on this route. Travel times might be longer on weekends and holidays, so it is advisable to check schedules for specific dates.

What are some places to visit in Italy from Milan?

From Milan, you can easily visit several charming destinations by train. Explore the historical city of Brescia or the cultural town of Pavia. Monza offers more than just its famous Formula 1 track, while Varese is known for its elegant architecture. Consider a trip to the stunning Lago di Como or the picturesque Lake Maggiore for natural beauty.