Bookmark these 8 best weekend getaways from Milan

Once you’ve experienced the top things to do in Milan, it’s time to take advantage of the city’s prime location. Head in any direction and you’ll find breathtaking natural beauty, historical urban centers, and some of the best destinations in Italy.

Adventure and relaxation await at one of many pristine lakes, like Lake Como, Garda, and Lugano. If you’re looking for a different type of city vibe, Turin and Bologna are foodie havens that blend history with hipness. You can even enjoy a postcard-perfect excursion to the neighboring country of Switzerland. Here are the eight best weekend getaways from Milan.

Best weekend getaways from Milan, according to your interests

Best weekend destinations for food: Bologna or Turin

Best weekend trips for outdoor adventure: Lugano or Lake Como

Best weekend away for families: Lake Garda

Best place for a romantic weekend: Verona

1. Lake Como

Recommended for

Outdoor enthusiasts and hikers

Top things to do in Lake Como over a weekend

Every corner of luxurious Lake Como is primed for a photo op. The best way to see multiple lakeshore towns is with a boat tour. Walk the historic streets of Como or hop on a funicular in Lecco for sprawling views. Take a stroll around colorful Varenna, then enjoy some bubbly in plush Bellagio. Or lace up for a breathtaking mountain hike, like on the Greenway trail from Colonno to Lenno.

Best way to travel from Milan to Lake Como?

The southern tip of Lake Como is roughly 31 miles (50 kilometers) from Milan. There are many direct daily trains from Milan’s central station that arrive in Lecco or Como in under 40 minutes, or Varenna in 75 minutes. On the lake, the public boat service runs year-round from Como to select towns.

2. Verona

Recommended for

Literature lovers and couples

Top things to do in Verona over a weekend

As you walk through the historic Porta Nuova into Verona, the sweet aura of romance fills the air. This is, after all, the setting for Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” Get lost in the old narrow streets, catch a show at the ancient Verona Arena, and don’t miss Juliet’s balcony or the chance to touch the breast of her statue for good luck in love.

Best way to travel from Milan to Verona?

Verona is 97 miles (156 kilometers) from Milan. A fast train will get you to Verona’s Porta Nuova station in about 75 minutes.

3. Lugano, Switzerland

Recommended for

Nature lovers, hikers, and families

Top things to do in Lugano over a weekend

One of the best weekend trips from Milan is just across the border in Lugano, Switzerland. Take a funicular to get to the summit of Monte Brè for stunning views and a scenic hike. For a more leisurely walk, take the lakeside Olive Tree Trail. With kids in tow, enjoy a family-friendly Lugano day trip at the nearby Monte Tamaro Adventure Park.

Best way to travel from Milan to Lugano?

The 48-mile (78-kilometer) train journey from Milano Centrale to Lugano Station takes 75 minutes. Try to avoid rush hour, between around 5:00–7:00 PM.

4. Turin

Recommended for

Foodies and museum lovers

Top things to do in Turin over a weekend

Piedmont’s capital, Turin, is one of Italy’s most underrated cities. Fuel up with a bicerin — a rich concoction of espresso, hot chocolate, and cream — and save room for tajarin (pasta made with egg yolks), a local Barolo wine, and more Turin food and drink experiences. Museum lovers are spoiled for choice, but shouldn’t miss the Egyptian Museum, the world’s oldest museum devoted to ancient Egypt. For the best sunset views, ascend the Mole Antonelliana or cross the river to the Mount of the Capuchins.

Best way to travel from Milan to Turin?

Travel 81 miles (130 kilometers) via the fast train from Milano Centrale and arrive in Turin in just one hour.

5. Bergamo

Recommended for

History geeks and urban hikers

Top things to do in Bergamo over a weekend

Strolling through the charming city of Bergamo is a treat. In the newer città bassa (lower town), you can explore designer clothing boutiques and artisanal shops selling local goods like taleggio cheese and casoncelli (similar to ravioli). Carve out some time to enjoy an aperitivo — a pre-dinner cocktail with snacks. But the main attraction is the upper town, with its picturesque historical center enclosed by towering UNESCO-listed Venetian walls. Make your way through the narrow cobblestone streets and take in the charming historical architecture in this unique neighborhood.

Best way to travel from Milan to Bergamo?

Bergamo is 51 kilometers (32 miles) from Milan and is an easy 48-minute train ride. From Bergamo station, take a bus or walk down the main street to reach the upper town.

6. Bologna

Recommended for

Foodies and history lovers

Top things to do in Bologna over a weekend

Come to Bologna with an appetite. Between taking shots of the leaning towers of Garisenda and Asinelli, shop at the Quadrilatero Old Market and nosh on the region’s cherished foods, like Parmigiano Reggiano, mortadella, and tagliatelle al ragu (spaghetti bolognese). Then, stretch your legs and take in stunning views along the 2.4-mile (3.8-kilometer) hike through the 666 arches of the Portico di San Luca, the world’s longest arcade, or covered walkway.

Best way to travel from Milan to Bologna?

At 132 miles (213 kilometers), Bologna is a quick 1-hour trip from Milan if you take the high speed train.

7. Lake Garda

Recommended for

Families and hikers

Top things to do in Lake Garda over a weekend

With its crystalline waters and enchanting waterside villages, Lake Garda competes with Como for beauty and elegance. Step into the Varone Waterfall Cave Park in Riva Del Garda, take a strenuous hike to the epic viewpoint at Punta Larici, or take a tour of Scaligero Castle in Sirmione. For family fun, the amusement park at Gardaland Resort is a must-do.

Best way to travel from Milan to Lake Garda?

With a distance of 78 miles (125 kilometers), the fastest train from Milan gets you to Desenzano del Garda-Simione in roughly 50 minutes. From there, you can take ferries or buses to get around. However, a car is the best way to experience all of Lake Garda.

8. Bernina Express

Recommended for

Train enthusiasts and mountain lovers

Top things to do along the Bernina Express over a weekend

One of the world’s most beautiful modes of transportation is the Bernina Train Line, which winds through the Swiss Engadin Alps, from Tirano, Italy, to Chur in Switzerland. The whole journey is four hours one way and crosses 196 bridges over 76 miles (122 kilometers). You can also make stops along the way in luxurious resort towns like St. Moritz, for one of the best weekend trips from Milan.

Best way to travel from Milan to the Bernina Express?

From Milan, you have to get to Tirano first. It’s a 96-mile (154-kilometer) ride by car or a 2.5-hour train ride. When going north, remember to book tickets on the train’s left side for the best views.

FAQs

What are some nearby destinations for a weekend trip from Milan?

Milan’s central location in Northern Italy lets you enjoy natural wonders (Lake Como and Lake Garda), urban foodie havens (Turin and Bologna), and even a taste of Switzerland, all within easy reach.

What are the main transport options from Milan?

Avoid the traffic and take the train. Many fast, direct trains are available daily to the best weekend getaways from Milan, including the lakes, the Alps, and historical towns like Verona.

What are the best day trips from Milan?

Running short on time? Destinations like Lake Como, Bergamo, and even Lugano, Switzerland, are just a few of the easy day trips from Milan. All are accessible in under 75 minutes via train.

What is the most romantic weekend trip from Milan?

One of the most romantic things to do around Milan is a weekend trip to nearby Verona, home to star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet.

What is the most affordable weekend trip from Milan?

Enjoy an affordable Italian getaway to Turin. Explore a plethora of museums and indulge in local foods and handmade chocolates. Book your train tickets a few weeks in advance for the best deal.