The Best of Turin

7 Day Trips from Milan to Explore The Best of Turin

Turin, a city where every cobblestone whispers tales of past glories and contemporary charm, is undoubtedly one of the best destinations for a day trip from Milan.

This guide unveils some of the best day trips from Milan to Turin that you can take, luring travelers down Turin’s baroque elegance and sampling rich culinary traditions while marveling at artistic innovations. 

These day trip ideas go beyond the typical tourist experience, delving into the soul of Turin, promising to enrich travelers’ understanding and appreciation of one of Italy’s most fascinating destinations.

1. Turin’s Historical Heart: A Must-do Day Trip

The first idea of a day trip to Turin from Milan is to visit Turin’s main attractions. Admire the grandeur of Piazza Castello, the elegance of the Royal Palace , and the impressive Mole Antonelliana. 

Don’t miss the Egyptian Museum which houses one of the most significant collections of Egyptian artifacts in the world. 

This exploration of Turin’s Historical Heart also brings travelers to the lesser-known but equally fascinating sites that contribute to the city’s rich tapestry of history. 

Wander through the Quadrilatero Romano, the oldest part of the city, where Roman and medieval architecture coexist. Here, hidden courtyards, ancient Roman walls, and narrow alleyways offer a more intimate glimpse into Turin’s past. 

You should also visit the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, housing the famous Shroud of Turin , a relic steeped in mystery and reverence. 

It is the perfect day trip for those who love culture and history, but don’t forget to bring along your camera to capture beautiful moments for your feed.

A glass of Bicerin, a drink made of coffee, chocolate and heavy cream.

2. Turin’s Coffee & Chocolate Culture: A Culinary Exploration

Our second idea for a day trip from Milan to Turin is to enjoy the city’s famous cafes and artisanal chocolatiers. 

You should definitely visit some of the city’s most iconic coffee houses, like Caffè Al Bicerin or Caffè Fiori. Or pay a visit to the Lavazza Museum to learn about the history of coffee.

A visit to Turin’s chocolate shops where you can indulge in Gianduiotto is a must, some of our favorites are La Perla and Guido Gobino. Mark on your agenda that during November there will be a chocolate festival in Turin, a great opportunity to taste the best chocolate in Italy.

This gastronomic journey is an ideal follow-up to a Milan walking tour , offering a taste of Turin’s rich culinary traditions and a delightful sensory experience while also immersing you in the cultural architecture of the beautifully designed city. 

3. Turin’s Art & Cinema: Discovering Creative Spaces

A view of the Mole Antonelliana

The third suggestion of a day trip from Milan to Turin is dedicated to art lovers. Turin is also known as the cradle of Italian cinema. 

Film enthusiasts and art lovers simply must not miss a visit to the National Museum of Cinema. Located in the iconic Mole Antonelliana, there, you will find contemporary art galleries that showcase Turin’s creative pulse . 

Your itinerary should also include a walk searching for Turin’s vibrant street art, highlighting the city’s modern artistic expressions. While Milan is known to be fashion-focused, in Turin there is art to be found everywhere.

4. The Royal Residences of Turin: A Journey into Royalty

Step into the opulent world of Italian royalty with a day trip to Turin’s majestic Royal Residences. This adventure takes you to the lavish Royal Palace of Turin, the elegant Villa della Regina, and the grand Stupinigi Hunting Lodge.

Each of these attractions is a testament to the city’s sovereign past and the House of Savoy. This trip offers a glimpse into the lives of Italian nobility through guided walks through halls of grandeur. 

Here is our guide to 7 Stunning Royal Palaces in Turin that you must visit once in a lifetime.

Also, keep an eye on Club Silencio Instagram for events with drinks, food & music at those palaces.

5. Turin Natural Wonders: An Outdoor Adventure

Adventurous souls can explore the stunning natural landscapes surrounding Turin. Here are options to cater to all levels of sports enthusiasts.

Right in the city you have an easy/moderate hike to the Basilica of Superga or a long walk along the River Po.

Heading to the Alps things become more serious, in Bardonecchia, you can hike up to 2400 m ASL to Quatro Sorelle peak. Another option is to head to Gran Paradiso National Park for breathtaking hikes.

More day trip ideas include the hidden gems of the Piedmont countryside. Venture into the verdant valleys and rolling hills, where quaint villages and vineyards dot the landscape, offering a picturesque setting for leisurely walks or cycling – not to mention, ample opportunity for wine tasting. The worldwide famous Barolo wine is from the Piedmont region.

Travelers who love local fare and want to experience authentic local culture should make sure to visit in summer because, in the warmer months, these areas come alive with outdoor festivals and markets. 

Winter transforms the region into a snowy wonderland, ideal for skiing or snowshoeing, and yes, you can go skiing near Turin , so don’t miss the opportunity.

6. Turin’s Automotive Legacy

Not many people know that Turin is considered the car capital of Italy. FIAT, Lancia, Studio Pininfarina, and Abarth were born or later headquartered in Turin. 

The former Fiat factory was renovated and transformed into a multi-use complex with a shopping mall, art gallery, bars, and hotels. For me, the highlight is the bar on top of the complex. 

Here you can enjoy a vermouth while admiring the view and the race track where the cars were tested. A little detail, this race track is located on the top of the building. Panoramic views filled with speed and history. 

MAUTO – the Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile is a mandatory stop for car enthusiasts. You will learn all about the history of car manufacturing in Italy and also admire stunning vintage cars. The interactive exhibition is perfect for adults and kids.

While it’s not a common day trip from Milan to Turin, it is definitely one to check out.

7. Exploring Turin’s Mysteries and Legends

You probably don’t know, but Turin is considered a city where white and black magic collide. And it’s an interesting story to follow. 

To dive deeper into Turin’s magical side, travelers may look for its mysteries and legends. Look for tours that will take you beyond the well-known landmarks to lesser-known locales steeped in occult history and dark history. 

You will be visiting ancient alchemical symbols hidden in plain sight, exploring the secret passages of historic buildings, and hearing tales of Turin’s mystical past from local guides – an intriguing journey through the shadows and secrets of a fascinating world.

Which Day trip from Milan to Turin do you like the most?

These 7 ideas for day trips from Milan to Turin will offer you an unforgettable journey filled with diversity, discovery, and depth. And I hope you can fit one (or more) on your Italian itinerary. 

Each itinerary is a unique chapter in the narrative of Northern Italy, revealing different facets of Turin’s rich heritage. In case you are not sure if Turin is worth a day trip, here are 10 reasons you should visit Turin , and to be honest I would stay here for more than 1 day.

If you decide to stay longer in Turin, read our guide to the best hotels in Turin to find the perfect stay.

See you in Turin.

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Best Day Trips from Milan

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Milan is a fantastic base for a day trip thanks to its prime position within the central region of northern Italy. Whether discovering the rolling Swiss and Italian Alps or the stunning lakes nearby, extend your stay in Milan by adding an unforgettable day trip.

Thanks to the country’s nifty transport system, traveling by train in Italy means the best day trips from Milan are easy and affordable. So, prepare for some unforgettable experiences, from a food-inspired visit to Bologna to a historic trip to Turin.

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Day tours from Milan to Lake Como are fairly straightforward. It costs around €5 to ride from Milan Central Station to Como Lago on a 40-minute train journey.

READ: our full guide on How to get from Milan to Lake Como . 

Enjoy Lake Como by visiting some of its stunning villas. Some must-sees include Villa Carlotta, Villa Olmo, and the famous movie location of Villa del Balbianello .

Taking a boat cruise along Lake Como is a glorious way to explore the attractions. Snap tons of photos along the shores of Bellagio, walk the quaint cobblestone streets of Brienno, and eat your heart out near the colorful buildings of Varenna. 

TOP TIP: Take the funicular railway from Como to Brunate for majestic hillside views of Lake Como. 

Lake Como Day Trip From Milan

If you’d like to have transport arranged for you, then it’s a great idea to join this Lake Como day trip from Milan . It’s an excellent way to experience the best of Bellagio and Varenna without having to worry about travel logistics. The tour also includes a lovely cruise along Lake Como.

Tour Details: Lake Como day trip from Milan

The Lagoon City is one of the most iconic destinations in Italy. For independent travel, take the train from Milan Centrale to Venezia Santa Lucia. This is a roughly 2.5-hour trip. Tickets start at around €17, and the train will drop you right in the heart of Venice.

As for the top things to see in Venice , be sure to stop by the Basilica di San Marco to admire some stunning architecture. You can also visit the Palazzo Ducale and photograph the iconic Rialto Bridge. 

Consider escaping the crowds with a short ferry ride to the bright streets of Burano. Or, stay in the heart of Venice and visit the flooded Crypt of San Zaccaria or the Il Fenice Opera House .

Venice Day Trip From Milan

Although traveling alone offers a lot of freedom, this full-day Venice tour is also a great option. The tour covers some Venice itinerary staples, like a breathtaking Grand Canal gondola ride and a glass-making workshop. It also travels past all the famous attractions in the city, like Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Palace, and the Riva degli Schiavoni.

Tour Details: Venice day trip from Milan

It’s a short hour train ride from Milan Centrale to Bologna Centrale, with tickets costing around €20 per person. Piazza Maggiore is the cultural hub at the city center and is a fantastic starting point for your day in Bologna .

Visit the tenth largest church in the world at Basilica di San Petronio, walk the world’s longest portico to Monte della Guardia, and climb the medieval tower of Prendiparte. While all the sights around the city are magical, its true attraction is the fantastic dishes of Bologna .

Bologna Tasting Tour

There aren’t many day-trip tour options from Milan to Bologna, but there are many tours available in the city. On this tasting tour of Bologna , dig into 10 delicious delicacies popular in this foodie destination. Indulge in the classic flavors of tortellini fritti and formaggio bianco, or meats complimented perfectly with a glass of Lambrusco.

Tour Details: The 10 tastings of Bologna

If traveling solo is your style, then it’s about an hour-long trip from Milan Centrale to Torino Porta Nuova. Tickets tend to start around €27, but you can often find some fantastic deals on Omio .

Wonder at human and animal mummies and the massive Sethi II Statue at the expansive and world famous Egyptian Museum . After your ancient history fix, stop by the UNESCO World Heritage Site and former royal residence, La Venaria Reale .

Turin Day Trip From Milan

This full-day guided tour of Turin offers hotel pick-up and drop-off in Milan and includes a walking tour that covers the highlights of Turin. You’ll also have free time to sample local cuisine and explore on your own. 

Tour Details: full-day guided tour of Turin

TOP TIP: Read our Piedmont travel guide if you intend to venture beyond Torino.

Getting from Milan Centrale to Verona Porta Nuova takes about one hour and 15 minutes when using Frecciarossa, with tickets starting at €18.

The ancient Roman Arena — which is actually older than the Colosseum — should be one of your first stops. You can also stop by the 14th-century Castel San Pietro for epic views of Verona. 

Head to the Castelvecchio Museum to admire glorious sculptures and paintings or visit Juliet’s House , once home to the Cappello family. For some shopping, head to Via Giuseppe Mazzini. 

READ: Our guide to the Best things to do in Verona .

Verona Walking Tour

Organized day trips from Verona to Milan are limited, so your best option is to travel independently. 

Join this guided walking tour of Verona to see its top sights. Discover everything from the Roman Amphitheater to the breathtaking frescoes at the Piazza delle Erbe. There’s more, with visits to the gothic-style Arche Scaligere and some fantastic local restaurants all included on this private tour. 

TOP TIP: Get 5% off Livtour experiences with the code UntoldItaly .

Tour Details: Private tour of Verona

St Moritz and Bernina Express to Switzerland

Pretty much the entire day will be spent on a train, but this day trip is more for the stunning scenery than anything else. 

If taking this trip independently, take a three-hour train ride from Milan Centrale to Tirano for around €14. From there, the breathtaking Bernina Express train takes you through northern Italy and into Switzerland. St. Moritz is the halfway point on this iconic four-hour panoramic train ride from Tirano to Chur, with tickets costing €51.50 one-way.

St Moritz and Bernina Express Day Trip From Milan

Alternatively, avoid the hassle of planning the entire journey by joining this Bernina Express experience from Milan . Enjoy a scenic bus ride through the countryside and straight to St. Moritz. From there, enter the world-famous scenic train journey from St. Moritz to Tirano, and discover the beauty of Switzerland.

Tour Details: St Moritz and Bernina Express panoramic tour

Interlaken and Swiss Alps

As fantastic an idea as it is, taking a day trip to Interlaken from Milan without a guide may not be worth the effort. 

The quickest route has one changeover in Spiez, with an average travel time of four hours. The fastest train tickets cost roughly €89, and even then, there will be a lot of time wasted waiting between trains, so tours are much easier.

Interlaken and Swiss Alps Day Trip From Milan

Skip the transport arrangements by booking a convenient day excursion to Interlaken from Milan instead. On this day trip, you can expect a scenic two-hour ride from Domodossola to Spiez. 

The journey takes you through the lush valleys of Simplon Pass on the Green Train. Spend some time admiring Spiez before jumping on a gentle boat ride across Lake Thun to the charming town of Interlaken.

The Swiss Alps are in full view during the boat tour, with Jungfrau, Mönch, and Elger all within view. After arriving in Interlaken, spend some time admiring the bespoke architecture, and don’t forget to visit the stunning Lake Brienz as well. 

Tour Details: Interlaken and Swiss Alps day trip

Milan to Lake Garda is a trip that can easily be paired with a visit to Verona. Catching a train from Milan Centrale to Desenzano del Garda is quick and affordable, with a 50-minute travel time and tickets costing around €18.

Visiting Castello Scaligero at Sirmione port is a great idea as this iconic castle dominates the picturesque town. You’ll also love a cruise along Lake Garda to explore sights like the Villa Canossa and Lazise Castle. 

Taking a dip in the emerald waters of Lake Garda is also worth a try, especially in the summer months. Or head to Bardolino to sample the delights of Bresca wines at places like Lenotti Cellars or Winery Costadora.

Verona and Lake Garda Day Trip From Milan

Join this combined tour of Verona and Lake Garda from Milan to enjoy the convenience of arranged transport along with enough freedom to explore on your own. An expert tour guide will take you to some of the highlights of both destinations while giving you free time to wander about, do some shopping, and take a boat cruise on Lake Garda if you wish. 

Tour Details: Tour of Verona and Lake Garda from Milan

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a region on the Italian Riviera teeming with colorful villages and breathtakingly clear water along the Ligurian coast. Each town has its own unique character, and traveling between each is easy with the Cinque Terre Express . 

Simply put, venturing out to Cinque Terre is too long a trip to do on your own from Milan as the average train travel time is over four and a half hours to La Spezia. It is however cost effective with train tickets available from around €23.

The best option is to join a guided tour, as this will help you cover the highlights of each village in a day. 

Cinque Terre Day Trip From Milan

To experience possibly the best day trip from Milan, Italy, without tiring yourself out, join this full-day Cinque Terre guided tour . An air-conditioned coach will collect you at your hotel in Milan and drive you to Monterosso al Mare. Enjoy a guided tour of the town before hopping aboard a boat cruise along the Italian Riviera and ending off in La Spezia.

Tour Details: Cinque Terre full-day guided trip

Lombardy Wine Tasting

The perfect Milan day trip does exist, and it’s in the form of a wine-tasting tour through Lombardy. If traveling alone, head to the city of Bergamo, which lies an hour away from Milan, by train. Train tickets cost around €6 per person, making it a great option for a day trip.

The best way to experience this region, however, is with a guided tour. This will cover transport, and you’ll get to learn about the region and the wine-making process from a knowledgeable guide

Lombardy Wine Tasting Day Trip From Milan

This fantastic Franciacorta wine tour from Milan takes you to the humble Italian city of Bergamo for a lovely lunch before exploring the Franciacorta wine route. The sommelier and knowledgeable guide will show you every aspect of the wine-making process before you sample the golden nectar at a wine tasting. 

Tour Details : Franciacorta full-day wine experience

Lake Maggiore

Get to Lake Maggiore independently by train from Milan Centrale to Stresa. Tickets are reasonably affordable at about €10, and the trip lasts just over an hour.

If independent travel is your preferred option, you can try this Lake Maggiore hop-on hop-off boat ticket . This will allow you to explore Stresa and the Borromean Islands (Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola Pescatori) in your own time.

Stop by the Borromean Islands on Isola Pescatori and Isola Madre. The latter is known as one of the prettiest park spaces in Italy, while Pescatori is an iconic fishing village. It’s then a short journey across the lake to glorious Isola Bella, which hosts the elaborate Palazzo Borromeo .

End the day in Stresa, where you can enjoy a drink at the Sky Bar in Hotel La Palma or visit the picturesque Park Villa Pallavicino.  

LISTEN: to our podcast for more on Magical Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore Day Trip From Milan

This Lake Maggiore day trip is one of the best day excursions from Milan. The tour starts with a lovely cruise from Lago Maggiore, where you can admire the idyllic villas and lush lakeside garden. The tour also stops by the three main Borromean Islands of Isola Pescatori, Isola Madre, and Isola Bella, where you can explore each one.

Tour Details: Lake Maggiore day trip from Milan

Summary: Best Day Trips from Milan

No matter the journey, a day trip from Milan will always be an unforgettable experience. The choice is yours, from sipping wine in Franciacorta to admiring the stunning scenery on a day trip from Milan to Switzerland.

So, what will your next epic adventure be?

NEXT READ: If you’re planning on taking any day-trips independently, this in-depth guide to transportation in Italy will come in handy.

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Turin Day Trip From Milan

Turin Day Trip From Milan

Private day tour by car with driver.

turin-day-trip

Discover Turin, in the Piedmont (Piemonte) region of Italy, with our Turin day trip from Milan . This city has a lot to offer. From its Baroque cafes and architecture to its arcaded shopping promenades and museums , Turin is a great city for wandering and exploring .

Set against the backdrop of the Alps , Turin is a beautiful city that was the first capital of the Italian Kingdom back in 1861 .

These days, it’s a city full of historic and artistic landmarks and sites including two UNESCO World Heritage sites , and well known as home of a number of important museums, theaters and cafes.

Often underrated, it’s one of the most elegant cities in Northern Italy , and it’s full of art, history, architectural and food treasures. Our Turin day trip from Milan will allow you to discover Turin’s hidden gems .

Trip Details

  • Turin full day trip from Milan
  • Duration: 12 hours
  • Departure from your hotel in Milan at 8,00 am. Arrival in hotel in Milan at 8,00 pm
  • code: 01613
  • Total price € 490,00  for a trip by private minivan within 7 people.
  • Total price €  450,00   for a trip by private car within 3 people
  • This is a personal trip by private car with driver for one group of clients only.
  • Round-trip transport from Milan by private minivan (or car on demand) with air conditioning
  • Admire Turin’s Baroque, neoclassical and Art Nouveau architecture in the city’s historic centre
  • Discover Turin’s food treasures, and its elegant and historic bars and cafes
  • Visit the Mole Antonelliana, and take the panoramic lift climbing to the top of the Mole (167 mt), with 360° view of the city and the beautiful Alps surrounding it
  • Enjoy the ferry-boat through the Po river (optional) and visit the castle and Parco del Valentino

After leaving Milan at 8,00 am, you will reach Turin in less than 2 hours by luxury minivan (or coach on demand).

Turin has an opulent past reflected in the elegance of Turin’s buildings in the city centre.

Around Piazza Castello , the grand city square in the heart of Turin, you will find glamorous shops and important museums , theaters and cafes.

You will have free time to wander and explore some of the landmarks, monuments and buildings that belong to the fascinating cultural heritage of Turin:

  • the 16th-century Palazzo Reale , or Royal Palace of Turin, is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site that used to be the official residence of the Duke of Savoy.
  • the Duomo di Turin (Cathedral of John the Baptist) hosts the world-famous Holy Shroud , commonly known as the Shroud of Turin, and said to be the cloth that covered Jesus in the tomb.
  • the elegant Palazzo Madama is another UNESCO World Heritage site housing the Museum of Ancient Art .

During the tour, do not forget to pause at one of the city’s elegant cafes to taste some warming Bicerin , a hot drink made of chocolate, coffee and cream , or to try the dessert art of Turin’s pastry shops .

Turin is also known as the Chocolate City . There are endless chocolate-makers that roast and blend their own cacao beans. Foil-wrapped “gianduiotti”,   with their distinctive chocolate-hazelnut flavor, were born in Turin.

You cannot miss the visit of the Mole Antonelliana , an exceptional display of art nouveau architecture . Turin’s tallest and most recognizable landmark, originally built as a synagogue, today it houses the National Museum of Cinema – the tallest museum in the world.

A glass elevator will bring you up to the top of the 167 mt tall tower, for a breathtaking, 360-degree view of Turin and the snow-covered Alps beyond .

Next, you will enjoy a lovely ferry-boat cruise through the Po river , and visit the Valentine Castle and the Valentine Park .

This popular park extends along the left bank of the river Po at the foot of the hills. It is very close to the centre of town, and old: the park was opened in 1630 and later completed in 1660.

In 1864 it was redesigned with a better layout of avenues and lanes, little woods, artificial dales, a small riding-track and a mini-lake, later dried out and used as skating rink during the Winter season.

The Castle is no doubt the whole park’s most famous building, and dates back to the early 16th Century .

Before going back to Milan by minivan, if you want to close the day with an unique experience, you can climb in hot-air balloon at 150 mt of height (on demand) and enjoy another breathtaking view of Turin and its beautiful surroundings.

What’s Included

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Milan
  • Transfers by private air-conditioned minivan (or car on demand)

What’s Not Included

  • Tour guide (on demand)
  • Roundtrip ferry-boat through the Po river
  • Gratuities (optional)
  • Food and drinks
  • Entrance fees to attractions

BOOK THIS TOUR NOW

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Prestige Tour Italy

Turin day trip from Milan

The tour will begin with your private driver collecting you from your hotel in Milan (another custom location in the area can be agreed) with a luxury sedan or minivan, and after 1.5H drive you will reach Turin, a majestic and royal city located in Piedmont between the Pianura Padana and the Alps.

You will meet your official local guide and start a 3H walking tour in the charming center of Turin starting with Piazza San Carlo, filled with historic cafes where celebrities, artists, and writing like to meet. Your private guide will share the history, traditions, and curiosities of the city. Explore the Ancient Roman Quadrilateral district where the city walls and gate still stand.  Continue to the Porta Palazzo Food Market, with colorful stalls selling local products including cheese and wine. Cross the Piazza Castello to visit the Cathedral and the Royal Palace. See Via Po and its marvelous arcades, with plenty of bookstores, cafes, and artisans. Stand at the feet of Turin’s symbol, the Mole Antonelliana , and listen to stories about the building. End your tour in Piazza Vittorio by the river Po with a fantastic view.

Your private guide will give you suggestions along the way for local cuisine and restaurants, and of course, if you are a chocolate enthusiast, will be more than happy to suggest you some shop where you can buy top quality Piedmont chocolate, like the typical Gianduiotto.

At the end of the day, the tour will conclude and your private driver will take you back to your hotel in Milan or other desired location.

Alternative Tour: Venice Day trip from Milan , Florence Day Trip from Milan , Genoa & Portofino Day Trip from Milan , Verona Day Trip from Milan

  • DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION: Your hotel in Milan area (a different location may be agreed)
  • DEPARTURE TIME: Suggested departure from 8:00am to 9:30am
  • DURATION: 8 hrs
  • INCLUDED: English speaking driver, Fully equipped Mercedes Benz vehicle, WI-FI on board, Private Guide
  • NOT INCLUDED: Food & Drinks, Entrance Tickets
  • LANGUAGES: English - Italian

You can customize your tour according to your needs and preferences, our staff would be happy to inform you about different options, alternative routes and sites.

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The 10 Most Beautiful Day Trips from Turin, Italy

Day Trip from Turin to Lake Orta (Lago d'Orta)

It always amazes me that Turin, Italy isn’t more famous.  Besides being the first capital of Italy, and besides having a rich royal heritage, and besides being a global culinary hot spot, there are so many spectacular day trips from Turin that you could literally never get bored of spending time in the largest city in the Piemonte region.

I think you could spend a month in Turin and not get bored ( read my guide to spending a weekend in Turin here ), but for those who are staying in the city a bit longer and are looking for a change of scenery, there really are just countless great day trips from Turin.

Nearby destinations include cities like Alba, Asti and Bra, that are world-famous for their local culinary delights.  Of course, if you like ancient ruins and adventure sports, you’ll probably want to head to the Alps west and north of the city, in Susa and Aosta, respectively.

It’s even possible to do a day trip to Milan from Turin, thanks to the high-speed trains that travel this route in less than an hour.  Yes, you can wake up in Turin and be looking at Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” before lunch, if you properly plan your day trip from Turin!

Keep reading to see my Top 10 Turin day trip recommendations (plus one bonus that really only requires half a day), and let me know in the comments if you’ve visited any of these Italian travel destinations!

Looking for a Guided Tour from Turin?

If you don’t have time to organize your own day trip from Turin, there are some great guided tour options of Piemonte and the surrounding areas.  Here are my top three recommendations:

  • Half-Day Trip to Medieval Sacra de San Michele 🏔️
  • Full-Day Langhe Region Tour with Wine-Tasting 🍷
  • Food, Wine & Castle Tour in Canavese (Italian Alps) 🏰

Day Tiprs from Turin to Alba

Day Trip to Alba

As I wrote this post I went back and looked at all of my old photos from my own day trip to Alba… and most of them were of food. Alba’s charming historic center is worth on its own, but when you add in the fact that Alba is the birthplace of Nutella and the unofficial home of white truffles, well… you can’t skip this day trip from Turin!

Alba’s compact city center is ideal for a day spent exploring by foot.  The heart of the city is Piazza Duomo (shown above) with the 11th-centry Cathedral of San Lorenzo.  Alba is known for its many medieval towers, so why not ascend San Lorenzo’s forty-meter tower for views of the historic center?

Nearby, at the Centro Culturale San Giuseppe, you can descend into the basement to see ancient Roman archeological remains.  At times, temporary art exhibits are set up among the ruins.

Make sure to leave some time to shop for food and wine.  Although the Ferrero factory (where they make Nutella) is closed to the public, shops in Alba sell gianduja , the typical Piemontese chocolate-hazelnut spread that inspired Nutella.  You can also sample the region’s sumptuous red wines, including Barbera d’Alba, Dolcetto d’Alba and Nebbiolo d’Alba.

For lunch, check out La Piola (dishing up traditional Piemontese food, including at least one vegetarian pasta dish) and Voglia di Vino (vegetarian items clearly labeled on the menu).  If you visit Alba in the autumn, during the annual International White Truffle Fair, you can expect to find restaurants packed on the weekends as travelers from around the world come to sample white truffles on special tasting menus.  Reserve restaurants in advance if your visit is during the fair!

Getting to Alba from Turin

There is hourly train service between Turin and Alba.  The train from Turin to Alba takes about 70 minutes.  Train depart from Torino Lingotto station, which is accessible by metro from the historic center.  Tickets start around €6.

By car, the trip also takes about 70 minutes on highway A6.

Day Trips from Turin to Asti

Day Trip to Asti

The most iconic landmark in Asti is the Torre Troyana, an antique bell tower that was constructed in the late 1200s.  This is the only tower in the city that you can still climb, so consider heading here first to get a bird’s eye view of the city.

Asti has a selection of museums that cover art, architecture and history.  The most popular museum to visit on a day trip from Turin is Palazzo Mazzetti, a complex that evolved over time from several medieval houses into today’s grand palazzo . The interior is beautiful, and the opulent Baroque rooms feature exhibits on topics including archeology, local art and contemporary art.  You can purchase a €10 “complete ticket” here that also gives you access to fifteen other historical sites across the city.

Like Alba, Asti bustles in the autumn with festivals.  The Palio d’Asti is a traditional bareback horse race that dates back to the Middle Ages.  The Festival Delle Sagre D’Asti is a weekend fair celebrating pastoral, countryside traditions.  Finally, the Douja d’Or is an annual wine competition inviting vineyards from across Italy to present their best offerings.  If your day trip to Asti takes place during September, be prepared for crowds!

On my day trip to Asti I had lunch at Restaurante Convivio Vini e Cucina, which has unfortunately since closed.  A great alternative is Brasserie Pompa Magna, where there’s almost always at least one vegetarian pasta dish on the menu (cheesy gnocchi? yes please!) and more wine than you could sample in your lifetime.

Getting to Asti from Turin

Fast trains link Turin and Asti in only 35 minutes (the trains then continue on to Genoa).  Tickets start around €6.  These fast trains leave Porta Nuova station once an hour.

By car, it’s less than an hour from Turin to Asti if you take highway E70.

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Day Trips from Turin to Bra, Piemonte

Day Trip to Bra

Every other year, Bra hosts a cheese festival (fittingly called “Cheese”) in which 200,000 people descend upon this town (population 30,000) to celebrate artisan cheese from around the world.  If you like cheese, add this festival to your calendar now, and thank me later.

If you visit Bra at any other time, you may find that you’re the only tourist walking around this charming town in the Province of Cuneo. You can start by exploring Bra’s two most famous churches. The Church of Sant’Andrea (visible in the photo above, on the left) has a facade designed by none other than Bernini.  Nearby, the Church of Santa Chiara is well-known for its pretty interior dome.

If you need a day trip from Turin that’s perfect for kids, Bra could definitely be a contender!  It has a Toy Museum (Museo del Giocattolo) where a guided tour features a short theatre performance.  Kids also love Villa La Zizzola (open seasonally), where they can get panoramic views of the city, hear open-air concerts and go inside this small 19th-century villa.

Personally, I visited Bra during Cheese, and the only food I ate was the cheese being sold by vendors at stalls in the street.  If you want a real meal, check out the Slow Food-inspired Osteria del Boccondivino. They have vegetarian-friendly starters and pasta dishes, but omnivores will want to choose one of their affordable tasting menus based on traditional Piemontese cuisine.

Getting to Bra from Turin

Trains from Torino Lingotto to Bra take about 45 minutes and cost €5.  Departures are at least once an hour.

By car, it takes just under an hour to drive from Turin to Bra on highway E717.

Day Trip to Lake Orta

Most travelers have heard of Lake Como and Lake Garda, but Lake Orta (Lago d’Orta) is still something of a hidden gem… making it the perfect day trip from Turin!

Your home base for the day should be Orta San Giulio, on the east shore of the lake.  Try to arrive early so you can walk along the shore of the lake as the fog rises to reveal the picturesque landscape.

If the water looks inviting you can walk over to Orta Beach Club.  There, you can rent a beach chair and umbrella for relaxing between dips in the protected waters out front.  Similar beach clubs are dotted along the water to the north and south of Orta San Giulio town.

From the dock at Orta San Giulio it’s a ten-minute boat ride to Isola San Giulio.  Most of the houses on this little island are now abandoned, but it’s still possible to visit the Benedictine Monastery. Dine at the restaurant on island for a once-in-a-lifetime lunch.  They have a vegetarian pasta option, or tasting menus based on “land” and “sea”.

If you’re worried that you’ll end up paying George Clooney prices for a McDonalds-quality lunch, learn more about avoiding tourist trap restaurants in Italy .

Getting to Lake Orta from Turin

This is one of the few day trips from Turin that requires a car. It will take just under two hours to drive from Turin to Orta San Giulio.  Driving is recommended, as train service is inconvenient and infrequent.

Day Trip from Turin to Ivrea (Battle of the Oranges)

Day Trip to Ivrea

Ivrea is most famous for its early-spring Carnival, one of the world’s largest food fights. Once a year, townspeople dress up as aranceri (orange throwers).  Those on foot represent the common folk, while those in the carts passing by represent a historical tyrant (historians disagree on exactly which one).  Approximately 100,000 people arrive in Ivrea each year to watch the “Battle of the Oranges”, which takes place in the days leading up to Lent.

If your visit happens to fall at any other time of year, Ivrea is still a lovely day trip from Turin.  The city is especially proud of the recently-renovated Museo Civico Pier Alessandro Garda, which houses collections of Eastern Art, local archeological history and a rotating selection of works from the wealthy Croff family.

It’s also enjoyable to wander around the historic center of Ivrea, where you’ll find some quiet piazzas, churches with bell towers and a fourteenth-century Savoy castle.

There are lots of restaurants where you can have lunch in Ivrea, but there’s only one bakery where you can taste Ivrea’s home-grown delicacy: “Torta 900”.  Torta 900 is a cake with chocolate cream sandwiched between two layers of chocolate sponge cake, then sprinkled with icing sugar.  To try this trademarked dessert for yourself, head to Pasticceria Balla, near the Giardini Giusiana.

Getting to Ivrea from Turin

Trains from Turin to Ivrea depart from Torino Porta Nuova station, approximately once per hour.  Tickets cost about €6 and the trip takes between 60 and 75 minutes.

It takes about 50 minutes to drive to Ivrea from Turin, along highway A5.

My Summer 2018 Travel Itinerary - Milan

Day Trip to Milan

In my opinion, Milan is one of the best day trips from Turin. Most people look at things the other way, thinking Turin is a nice day trip from Milan, but if I had to choose one city to base myself in for an extended stay, I would choose Turin every time.

From the train station in Milan, the #3 metro line runs directly to Piazza del Duomo (shown above).  This is where your day trip from Turin should begin.  Ascend from the metro station into the expansive piazza and have your mind absolutely blown by the awe-inspiring facade of the Duomo church in front of you.  I highly recommend you buy a combined ticket including admission to the interior of the church and to the rooftops above (accessible via elevator, or at a discounted rate via the stairs).

After you’ve visited the Duomo, cross the piazza to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Italy’s most beautiful indoor shopping gallery (it puts the ones in Rome to shame!).  If you’re a high roller you can stop for a coffee at one of the historic cafes here, but you’ll want to caffeinate elsewhere if you’re on a budget!

From here, you can either take the metro over to Santa Maria della Grazie to see Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” (it’s essential to book tickets well in advance!) or you can just walk to Castello Sforzesco, a Renaissance-era fortress with several museums and pleasant gardens.

Read more about things to do in Milan in 1, 2 or 3 days.

Dining out in central Milan can be quite expensive, so I always like to stop for a quick lunch at Flower Burger. This vegan burger chain has restaurants in several Italian cities, with a convenient location near Milan’s Lanza metro station.

Getting to Milan from Turin

Milan and Turin are linked by high-speed trains. The trip from Torino Porta Nuova to Milano Centrale station can take as little as one hour, though these high-speed tickets come at a cost of €36.  If you’re willing to take a slower train, you can take the train from Turin to Milan in two hours for about €12.

It will take about two hours to drive from the city center of Turin to the center of Milan.

Sacra de San Michele

Day Trip from Turin to Sacra di San Michele

Day Trip to Sacra di San Michele

Completed in the thirteenth century, the Sacra di San Michele abbey is perched atop a hill at the entrance to the Val de Susa. This spectacular religious site was the inspiration for Umberto Eco’s “The Name of the Rose”, and today it is one of the most popular day trips from Turin for amateur hikers.

From either of the two train stations near the Sacra di San Michele, it’s possible to hike up to the abbey in approximately ninety minutes. For very adventurous day trippers, there is also a via ferrata route. If you choose to hike or use via ferrata , make sure you have the correct gear and equipment to make the trek safely.

The abbey is usually open daily, with guided tours on the weekend.  However, there are sporadic mid-day, seasonal and holiday closures, so check their website before you plan your day trip. For me, the highlight of my interior visit was seeing the Great Staircase of the Dead (a massive stone staircase that used to have the skeletons of monks lining its walls) and the mysterious Portal of the Zodiac.

For lunch, I recommend the fun Birrificio San Michele in the town of Sant’Ambrogio.  This brewery produces award-winning craft beers and has a typical brewpub-style menu (vegetarian options were available in the version I saw online).

Getting to Sacra di San Michele from Turin

You can take the train to either S. Ambrogio or Condove Chiusa S. Michele stations for €4.  There are departures hourly from Porta Nuova and the trip takes just over half an hour.  From the station, you can hike up or take a taxi.

By car, it takes about 45 minutes to drive from Turin to the parking lot at Sacra di San Michele.

Day Trip from Turin to Susa

Day Trip to Susa

Susa, in the Val de Susa, is the gateway to the Italian Alps and just a few minutes away from the French border.

In the first century BCE Susa chose to join the Roman Empire, and numerous relics from that era can be found around town.  The marble Arch of Augustus (shown above) is more than two thousand years old, and there are also remains of an ancient Roman ampitheatre and aqueduct.

From slightly-more-recent history, Susa has a monolithic stone cathedral dating back to the 1000s and the equally-hulking hilltop Castello della Contessa Adelaide.

Of course, Susa’s location at the base of the Alps makes it a prime destination for hiking and winter sports.  The town is surrounded by ski resorts, and the tourist information office in town can give you advice on day hikes at various difficulty levels.

If you work up an appetite, Ristorante della Torre has both an a la carte menu and a Piemontese tasting menu (with wine included!).

Getting to Susa from Turin

The same trains that go to Sacra di San Michele continue on to Susa, which is 40 kilometers down the road.  Again, prices are about €5 and departures are usually hourly from Porta Nuova.

By car, the drive from Turin to Susa takes about an hour, depending on traffic.

Day Trip from Turin to Aosta

Day Trip to Aosta

Speaking of ancient Roman ruins, day hikes and ski resorts, have you heard of Aosta?

While Susa is to the west of Turin, Aosta is reached by traveling north. Again, though, it’s at the foot of the Alps and close to the Italian-French border.

The Roman ruins of Aosta are remarkably well-preserved.  The historic town walls still stand six meters tall, and six of the tower fortifications along these walls are still in good shape.  Around town you can also find a Roman theater, triumphal arches and several ancient Roman stone bridges.

For the best hikes, you’ll have to head outside the town to some of the nearby villages around the Aosta Valley.  For example, the La Thuile First Rutor Waterfall trail is a family-friendly four-kilometer loop from the nearby town of La Thuile.  It also offers hikers the chance to continue exploring past the first waterfall, on to two more.

At lunch, choose a restaurant (such as Osteria d’Oca or Osteria da Nando) offering fonduta , Italy’s version of fondue.  Here, it’s made with Fontina cheese, a regional specialty.

Getting to Aosta from Turin

Trains from Turin to Aosta depart from Porta Nuova station, approximately once per hour.  The trip takes about two hours and tickets start at €10.

If you have good luck with the traffic, the drive from Turin to Aosta will take about 90 minutes.  In heavy traffic, it may take just over two hours.  The best highway is A5 (you’ll pass through Ivrea on the way).

Venaria Reale

Half-Day Trip from Turin to Venaria Reale Palace

Day Trip to Venaria Reale

This one is barely a day trip from Turin, but I’m putting it on the list for anyone looking for an easy half-day trip from Turin.

Venaria Reale is a suburb of Turin that is located about ten kilometers north of the city center.  It is best known for its majestic Savoy Palace, shown above.  One of the largest palaces in the world, this huge castle is surrounded by beautifully-manicured gardens and full of opulent furnishings.  A UNESCO World Heritage site, visits to the royal palaces (“La Reggia”) must be booked in advance on the official website.

Behind the main palace, the Savoy’s old hunting grounds have been preserved as a regional park.  Inside the park there is a second, smaller palace, along with scenic walking and biking trails. You can rent bicycles at several locations near the park entrance (confirm availability online before showing up!).

Inside La Reggia there is a Michelin-starred restaurant called Dolce Stil Novo (“the sweet new style”).  Reservations are required for this fine dining restaurant.  If you’re on a more casual day trip from Turin, Il Bergamotto is a popular pizzeria with indoor and outdoor seating, right on the main square.

Getting to Venaria Reale from Turin

City bus #11 runs from the center of Turin to Venaria Reale on weekdays.  On the weekend, you may have to transfer onto Bus #72; where you do this depends on your departure time.  This route is covered by the GTT Daily Ticket, which is €4 and sold at both tobacconists and from vending machines in metro stations.

By car, the drive from Turin to Venaria Reale is only about 20 minutes.

turin day trip from milan

Bonus: Half-Day Trip from Turin to Rivoli

Day Trip from Turin to Rivoli

Rivoli Half-Day Trip from Turin

One of my favorite day trips from Turin really only takes half a day, so I’ll just mention it briefly here.  Rivoli is a quaint, hillside historic town that, over the years, has become a suburb of Turin.  Easily accessible by bus from Porta Nuova, Rivoli has winding cobblestone streets, panoramic views of the mountains and a world-class contemporary art museum.  To read more about visiting Rivoli, including how to get there from Turin, read my complete guide to visiting Rivoli from Turin .

Thinking of visiting Italy’s original capital city?

Don’t miss my guide to visiting Turin over two or three days (make it a long weekend!) and my guide to avoiding common Italy travel mistakes . 

Traveling to Turin?  Pin this post for later!

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turin day trip from milan

Turin Day Trip from Milan with High-speed Train

turin walking tour

Make the most of your time in Italy by making a Turin Day Trip from Milan . From Milan Central Station , reach Turin with a high-speed train , the most sustainable and comfortable way to your destination. Meet your guide at the arrival and get ready to discover the most beautiful places of Turin a one-day tour .

Read more…

Meet the guide and delve into the history and culture of wonderful Turin. Your first stop will be Piazza San Carlo : discover the history and the so-called “drawing room” of the city and look at the equestrian monument of Emanuele Filiberto of Savoia. Continue your visit reaching Piazza Carignano and admire some of the most beautiful historical buildings, declared UNESCO World Heritage since 1997.

Then, after a relaxing stroll, you will arrive in Piazza Castello , the real heart of Turin, to learn more about the main monuments of the city, such as the Royal Palace , Palazzo Madama and San Lorenzo Church . Your guide will take you on a journey from the past to the present. You’ll learn why the city is so important nowadays and its industrial development thanks to FIAT , the Italian automobile industry that is now part of the popular soul of the city. End your tour with the magnificent Mole Antonelliana , the true symbol of the city.

Duration 9 hours

Milan, Centrale Train Station

Language English

Private Tour only for you

Max Number of People 12

Full Refund Full refund for cancellations received at least within 7 days in advance

More Details  ↓

  • Travel in a fast and responsible way
  • Discover the city with a local
  • See one of the most beautiful Italian cities in one day

Tour Includes

  • Licensed tour guide
  • High-speed train roundtrip ticket (business class)
  • Private Turin walking tour
  • Private Royal palace guided tour

Sites Visited

  • Piazza San Carlo
  • Piazza Carignano
  • Piazza Castello
  • Palazzo Reale (entrance with private guided tour)
  • Mole Antonelliana

How to Book

Would you like to book this tour? Or change something? Feel free to get in touch!

  • Availability All year round
  • Timing Everyday, the train leaves at 10:02 AM
  • Important notes – Minors must be accompanied by an adult; – This tour is guaranteed with a minimum number of 2 participants.
  • Meeting point – The guide will be outside the Train Station, holding a yellow sign with “TOUR” written; – Please arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes in advance.
  • Adverse conditions/unforeseen circumstances Please note that in case of adverse weather conditions (eg. bad storms, unexpected extreme events), or unforeseen circumstances (eg. monuments sudden closures, train/flight cancellations or delays) we do not guarantee a full refund. The company will examine each case and act accordingly.
  • Mobility impairments and disabilities Please note that some parts of the tour may not be easily accessible for people with reduced mobility (or any kind of disability), if you are unsure of the details, feel free to contact us at [email protected] .
  • In case of delay In case of delay, contact the emergency number +39-327-4674179
  • Rain Policy This tour will never be cancelled due to rain. In case of rain the guide will decide the best alternative for the whole group. Please be aware that refunds will not be guaranteed to those who won’t accept the offered alternative.

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10 Best Day Trips from Milan

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Whether you’re fascinated by fashion, visiting on business or just enthralled with Italian culture, Milan is a fantastic home base for all kinds of getaways. You will love that the city is home to world-class museums, breathtakingly beautiful churches and vibrant central plazas.

For those interested in the modern culture, there is no end to incredible eateries serving up Milanese specialties, and the nightlife is some of the best in all of Italy. As your base in Northern Italy, you will be in a prime position to set off on day trips from Milan to each of the following destinations.

Map of day trips from Milan

Map of day trips from Milan

Famous for being the setting of William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona is a very romantic city to stroll around, with a much more relaxed feel to it than nearby Venice. At the heart of the city lies the delightful Piazza delle Erbe; here you can find its well-preserved Roman amphitheater, and Juliet’s House is just a stone’s throw away.

Lots of lovely old churches are scattered around the city, and among Verona’s many highlights are its splendid cathedral and the red brick Castelvecchio, which is home to a brilliant art museum. For a fantastic view over the city, make sure to head to Castel San Pietro, which is located on a hillside overlooking Verona with the river Adige flowing below it.

Getting to Verona

  • From Milano Centrale, it only takes an hour and 15 minutes to get to Verona Porta Nouva railway station. Trains run between the two cities every half hour. Once you arrive, you can either take a short bus journey to Piazza delle Erbe or walk 20 minutes to get there. From the piazza, you are best exploring the rest of Verona on foot.
  • While driving to Verona does take a bit longer at around two hours, this means you could stop off and see the fantastic Lake Garda either on the way there or back, as it lies along the route. From the center of Milan, head east out of the city and pick up the A35, which will take you to just outside Brescia. After that, hop on the A4 and turn off once you see signs to Verona.
  • If you don’t fancy driving yourself and also want to see Lake Garda, you may want to consider taking a guided tour that combines a visit to the lake with a sightseeing tour around Verona. With an expert guide on hand, you’ll learn all about the history of Verona as you wander around the city. The scenery and sights at Lake Garda are equally impressive to behold.

Tourists in Piazza San Marco in front of the basilica, Venice, Italy

Lying directly to the east of Milan, the city of canals needs no introduction. Indeed, Venice is a must-see city, and while crossing its numerous bridges or taking a gondola ride along its canals, you’ll be greeted with stunning architecture everywhere you look, with almost every building dating back centuries.

venice

A magical place to explore, Venice has much more to offer than just the Doge’s Palace, the Rialto Bridge, and Saint Mark’s Basilica; getting lost amongst its narrow alleys is a lovely way to see the city. While Venice certainly can feel crowded, especially around the main sights , it is a sprawling place, so you’ll certainly get a feel for its authentic side if you stray off the beaten path. Its surrounding islands and delightful Lido are well worth a visit too.

Gondolas on Canal Grande in Venice, Italy

Getting to Venice

  • By train, it takes roughly two and a half hours to get to Venice from Milan, and direct trains depart from Milano Centrale every half hour. From the Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia, you can either amble through the Venetian streets taking in the beautiful architecture or take a vaporetto (a water bus) along the Grand Canal to get to incredible sights like Piazza San Marco and the Rialto Bridge.
  • To really make the most of your time in Venice, it is well worth taking a guided tour from Milan to the city of canals. This will take you around all the main sights, including Il Fenice opera house, the Bridge of Sighs, and of course, Piazza San Marco. With a gondola ride, a visit to a glass-making workshop, and an informative and interesting walking tour included, it is a fantastic day out that covers as much of Venice as possible.

Turin

Home to the Italian royal family, Turin is perhaps not as famous as many other Italian cities but the setting is pleasant with the Italian Alps visible in the distance. You should visit the former royal residence called the Palazzo Madama, and tour the opulent rooms filled with Baroque furniture, gold details and lush tapestries.

Dine at one of the upscale eateries located in the Piazza Carignano, and then head to the many bars and lounges located next to the banks of the River Po. If you want to do some souvenir shopping, but can’t afford the upscale boutique prices, then swing by the Porta Palazzo street market instead.

Getting to Turin

  • With regular trains running to Turin from Milan, visitors wishing to see the fabulous city can find themselves strolling peacefully along the banks of the river Po around an hour after leaving Milano Centrale. Simply hop on a train and alight at Torino Porta Nouva railway station, which is conveniently located not far away from many of the city’s most famous sights.

Pavia

In just a short time, you can travel to Pavia, making it an ideal day trip from Milan. Once you’re in Pavia, you’ll be able to take things slow, soaking in the medieval and Renaissance architecture as well as the vibrant outdoor markets.

A highlight of any visit to Pavia is a walk across the Ponte Coperto, a stunning bridge that provides you with great views, and equally great photo ops, of the city. Then, make your way to historic landmarks like the Basilica San Michele Maggiore, the Duomo Di Pavia and the Basilica di San Pietro in Ciel d’Oro, three incredibly important religious structures in the heart of the city. Right outside the city of Pavia, you’ll want to check out the Certosa di Pavia, a 14th century abbey that also serves as one of the most notable buildings from the Italian Renaissance.

Getting to Pavia

  • Lying just 40 kilometers to the south of Milan, Pavia is simple to get to by train; the journey should only take you half-an-hour from Milano Centrale. Once you alight in Pavia, the fantastic Duomo and beautiful basilica are just a short walk away through the picturesque town.

6. Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore

To the northwest of Milan is Lake Maggiore, a body of water that also happens to be the longest of the Italian lakes. This is one of the most relaxing, scenic and attractive spots in the region, and the size of the lake means there is no shortage of coastal paths, restaurants overlooking the water or beautiful views to choose from.

Hop on a ferry that traverses the lake for a unique perspective on the landscape, or admire the gorgeous gardens of the Villa Taranto. If possible, spend some time in the many weekly markets of Lake Maggiore, where you can shop for souvenirs as well as tasty fresh produce and homemade culinary delights.

Getting to Lake Maggiore

  • By public transport, Lake Maggiore is only around an hour to an hour and a half train journey away. This will take you to Stresa, which acts as a gateway to the rest of the lovely little towns that litter the shores of the lake – and, of course, the beautiful Borromean Islands. Once you alight, the lakeshore is just a short stroll away, and you will find ferries and boats to take you to any of the islands you wish to visit.
  • Driving is another option and is remarkably simple, as the E62 actually connects Milan to Stresa. Simply hop on it heading northwest, and in an hour and a half, you’ll find Lake Maggiore lying before you. With your own car, you can either park up and enjoy a ferry ride to one of the islands or go for a scenic drive along the lakeshore. Alternatively, both Lake Orta and Lake Varese are well worth checking out if you have the time.
  • Another option is to take a guided tour; this really is one of the best ways to see all Lake Maggiore’s amazing sights. With an expert guide at your side, you’ll learn all about the area’s fascinating history as you explore Stresa and the Borromean Islands. One of the highlights of the tour is taking a two-hour scenic cruise around the lake.

5. Cinque Terre

Monterosso al Mare, Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre translates to Five Lands, and it is made up of five smaller coastal villages on the Ligurian Sea. If you want to explore stunning scenery and hike on amazing trails overlooking the water, then there is no better day trip from Milan.

The paths are often steep, but the rewards are the often-secluded beaches, the traditional fishing villages and the amazing restaurants waiting for you in the towns of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso. Indulge post-hike with a refreshing swim in the sea or a meal of baked mussels in fresh herbs.

Colorful harbor at Vernazza, Cinque Terre, Italy

Getting to Cinque Terre

  • While some direct trains do run to the picturesque villages of le Cinque Terre from Milan, the odds are that you’ll have to make one or even two changes to get there, stopping off in Genoa along the way. To get to Monterosso – the largest town along this beautiful stretch of coastline – takes three to four hours depending on the train you take. As such, it is a good idea to plan your journey well in advance. Regular trains connect the five villages, so once you’re there, it is relatively quick and easy to travel between them.
  • To make the most of your time in le Cinque Terre, it is worth taking a guided tour. This means that you won’t waste any time navigating the Italian train system, and instead, maximize your time seeing both Manarola and Monterosso. With a 90-minute boat trip from Monterosso to La Spezia included, you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the Italian Riviera while your guide tells you all about the incredible sights you pass, as well as the history of the region.

Genoa

Genoa is a port city with a rich history and a splendid historic center. Don’t miss world-renowned museums like the Museum of Fine Arts in the White Palace, the historical picture gallery housed in the Palazzo Reale, the Museum at the Prince’s Palace or the Ligurian Archeological Museum. You can also see the former home of famed explorer Christopher Columbus, and you won’t want to miss a stroll along the Corso Italia, or the main pedestrian promenade of Genoa.

Foodies will want to try local foods popular in the region, such as pesto, which originated in Genoa , or focaccia, a bread that can be flavored simply with olive oil and salt or as a full meal with ham, cheese and sliced tomatoes.

Getting to Genoa

  • Lying almost directly south of Milan, Genoa is an hour and a half to two hours away by train, so in no time at all, you’ll find yourself with the Mediterranean before you. Just hop on a train at Milano Centrale and enjoy the scenic train journey through the Italian countryside. Once you arrive at Genoa Piazza Principe, you’ll find most of the main sights are within walking distance of the station.
  • Many visitors wishing to see Genoa opt to take a guided tour. These not only take you around the port city, but also to the charming Santa Margherita Ligure and pretty Portofino. With a knowledgeable guide accompanying you, you’ll learn a lot about the Italian Riviera, and a lovely boat trip between the towns enables you to bask in the beautiful scenery.

Bergamo

Just 90 km (55 miles) north of Milan is Bergamo, a smaller city that rests at the foothills of the Alps. As such, Bergamo is a scenic town, as well as a must-see spot for lovers of architecture. Bergamo is essentially two distinct cities: the Città Alta, or upper city, is encircled by walls from the 16th century, and the Città Bassa, or lower city, is decidedly modern.

Most visitors will want to spend time in the Città Alta, home to the Piazza Vecchia, or the heart of the city where architecture dates back to the medieval and renaissance periods. For the best views of the city without a hike, ride the funicular up to the Città Alta, where you’ll be treated to mountain scenery and unparalleled vistas.

Getting to Bergamo

  • An hour away by train, Bergamo is very easy to get to; a direct train leaves from Milano Porta Garibaldi once every hour. While many of its main sights are just a stone’s throw away from the station, the Citta Alta is a 20-minute steep walk or short funicular ride away.
  • Driving to Bergamo from Milan is another option, and means you could quite easily visit either Lake Como or Lake Iseo in the same day; both are around a 20-minute drive from the city. To get to Bergamo, just head north out of Milan and pick up the E64 heading northeast; this will take you directly to the scenic town.

Lugano

Thanks to the convenient location of Milan, day-trippers can even head over the border into Switzerland. The Swiss city of Lugano is the only Italian-speaking canton in the country. The lakeside destination is beautiful, and the abundance of palm trees and blue sparkling water gives it an almost tropical atmosphere right at the base of the Alps.

In Lugano, you can ride the Monte San Salvatore funicular to take in beautiful views, or you can stay closer to the water and swim at one of the beaches on the lake. Hiking and mountain biking are also popular pastimes, with the trails of Mount Brè being ideal for both recreational activities.

Getting to Lugano

  • To get to Lugano by train is very simple and only takes an hour and 15 minutes from Milano Centrale. Trains depart frequently, and once you arrive at Lugano, you’ll find that the beautiful lake is just a short walk away – although you may have to take a bus to get to the starting point of some of the lovely mountain hikes. Make sure to pack your passport, however, as you’ll be crossing over the border into Switzerland.
  • By car, it takes roughly the same amount of time to get to Lugano. Using your own vehicle, you could stop by Lake Como either on the way there or back. To get there, head northwest out of Milan on the A8 and follow it until the turning for Como, where you then take the A9 north. At Como, head west across the border into Switzerland and merely follow the A2 all the way to Lugano.
  • If you’re pressed for time and want to visit both Lugano and Lake Como in one day, it is a good idea to take a guided tour that combines both of them into one unforgettable trip. Cruising around on Lake Como is a lovely way to see the luxurious lakeside villas and stunning scenery, while stops at Bellagio and Lugano are equally memorable for the amazing sights they offer.

1. Lake Como

Como lake, Brunate, Italy

Boasting mountain views, crisp air and blue waters, it is easy to see why Lake Como is the epitome of Italian scenic beauty. Thousands of visitors from around the world flock to Lake Como, making it a playground for celebrities and tycoons alike.

Lake Como

The lake itself is a major attraction, with many people choosing to spend their days sipping cocktails or tanning on yachts moored in the water. You could also spend your day trip in Lake Como touring Villa Carlotta, hiking one of the trails along the banks of the lake, riding the hillside trolley for spectacular views over the water or tasting gelato in the town of Como.

Bellagio, Como lake, Italy

Getting to Lake Como

  • By public transport, it takes about 40 minutes to get to Lake Como from Milan. Simply hop on a train at Milano Centrale; in no time at all, you’ll find yourself at Como San Giovanni station with Lake Como lying enticingly before you. Trains depart once an hour, and when you arrive, you can continue exploring the magnificent lake by bus, hydrofoil or ferry. Another alternative is to take the train to Lecco and explore the east of Lake Como from there.
  • While driving to Lake Como does take a little longer at around an hour, this means you can drive around the lake at your leisure, stopping off at small towns and villages as you go. From the city center, head northwest on the A8, then take exit Como Centro, which will lead you to the beautiful lake on the A9. While going by car does have its advantages, during the high tourist season, you may find the roads are very congested, and it is quite difficult to find a parking space.
  • As such, you may want to consider taking a guided tour. These will take you to many of the most beautiful spots around the lake without you having to worry about public transport or parking the car. With visits to elegant lakeside villas and delightful churches included, alongside a scenic cruise on the lake itself, a tour is a great way to see as many sides to Lake Como as is possible in just one day.

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Home » Europe » Italy » 12 Epic Day Trips from Milan, Italy [2024 Edition]

12 Epic Day Trips from Milan, Italy [2024 Edition]

Every time we find ourselves in a new place, we have a choice. We could either explore it like a wide-eyed tourist or live the life of a local. When I landed in Milan six months ago, I vowed to myself that I’d revel in this city like a true Milanese.

Milan has a gritty splendour like no other. The old-world charm and the urban allure of this city kept me occupied for months. However, once I had explored every nook and cranny, I felt myself craving some more of the romance, literature, history, and architecture, Italy is famous for.

What better source to hit up than my local friends, they helped me explore the best of Italy via some incredible day trips from Milan, creating memories to last a lifetime!

Now, it’s time for me to share those experiences with you!

turin day trip from milan

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Half-Day Trips from Milan

Full-day trips from milan, final thoughts.

Milan is a brilliant hotspot for all things fun and adventurous and there really is so much to do there . Its ideal location in Western Lombardy puts it within hours of some of the best attractions in Italy . Even if you have just half a day to spare, make sure you check out these Milan half-day trips for some thrilling experiences.  

Day Trip to The Fidenza Village 

Day Trip to The Fidenza Village

You might have shopped at many malls in your life, but have you ever shopped at an outdoor shopping mall, housing more than 100 luxury brands? Let’s be honest, the Italians don’t do understated when it comes to fashion and shopping!

The famed Fidenza Village brings you up close to the envied collections of fashion powerhouses. This cathedral of shopping offers an unrivalled collection of designer items from the likes of Armani, Coach, Frette, Loro Piana, Missoni, Prada, Belstaff, Dolce & Gabbana, Jimmy Choo, and Versace. It’s definately one of the most intreguing places to visit in Milan .

The best part of this unique day trip from expensive Milan is that despite first impressions, there is something here for every price range… even us backpackers can pick something up with a ‘Made in Italy’ tag on it! The boutiques of this designer outlet not only offer great shopping opportunities for those with the means but also an interesting look into the culture of fashion in Italy.

Once you’ve built up an appetite from carrying those heavy shopping bags around this massive complex, or the freshly highlighted weight of poverty, it’s time to hit the restaurants. It will come as no surprise that this is no run of the mill food court. The wide gastronomic choices on offer are just as elegant and sophisticated, however many can be sampled without breaking the bank.

  Suggested Trips – From Milan: Fidenza Village Shopping Outlet Trip  

Day Trip to Pavia 

Day Trip to Pavia

Just an hour from Milan, situated along the beautiful river Ticino, is a university town called Pavia. The short distance and the calming aura of this town make it a perfect destination for those seeking to escape the fast-paced life of the city.   

This town exists at the crossroads of ancient history and modern urban flair. The University of Pavia was founded in 1361, making it the second oldest in Italy. As you stroll through the town you’ll come across an endless amount of fascinating and intricate buildings from the medieval and renaissance era. Every now and then on your wistful wanderings, you’ll happily stumble across a dazzling local market to lure you in with its dizzying array of unique trinkets.  

After your stroll, make your first stop at Certosa di Pavia, a Carthusian monastery from the 17 th century. Time will pass quickly while you soak in the stunning Italian Renaissance architecture, roaming street to street getting lost in the historic atmosphere of the town. Be sure not to miss the town’s biggest highlight, The Ponte Coperto. This bridge is a symbol of the city, the original Roman version that saw the rise and fall of empires was destroyed during WW2. The reconstruction and reopening of the bridge in 1951 represented the rebuilding of this area postwar.

If you still manage to save some time, head over to La Torre Degli Aquila and relish in their creative meals, while enjoying the views of Maria’s medieval tower. A perfect way to end your Milan day trip exploring this town steeped in the tales of the past.

It’s always difficult to leave a charming town like Pavia, so the next time you visit, book some cosy accommodation and stay a while longer.  

Day Trip to Franciacorta  

Day Trip to Franciacorta

A day trip from Milan to Franciacorta is an ideal way to spend some of your limited time in this region. If you have yet to experience the famous vineyards of Italy then this is the perfect opportunity to frolic in the green pastures and take some insta worthy selfies. The rows of perfectly lined lush plantations hug the rolling hillsides as the magnificent Swiss Alps loom in the background. Bloody gorgeous!

The wine regions of Franciacorta have remained a favourite of Italy’s aristocrats for centuries. If you want to spend a day experiencing the finer vices of the Italians, there’s no better place than Franciacorta. The tranquil fields also offer a perfect opportunity to take a respite from busy city life in buzzing Milan.

Here, the winemakers stick to traditional methods. They harvest the grapes by hand and leave them to ferment in oak barrels for a year and a half. Some of the finest wines in the world are prepared in this very place. It isn’t just the sparkling wines of Franciacorta that attract the aristocrats, but also the breathtaking landscape that keeps them coming back time after time. 

If you wish for a day of relaxation where you can treat yourself like royalty, then Franciacorta is the place to be. It’s also an ideal place to pack a flowing red dress and pretend to walk through a vineyard if that’s your sort of thing!

Suggested Trips – From Milan: Full-Day Food and Wine Experience in Franciacorta  

Day Trip to Lake Garda 

Day Trip to Lake Garda

It’s an absolute travesty to miss out on Lake Garda – the largest and cleanest lake of Italy – if you are already in Milan. This majestic lake is just 2 hours from the city and is loved by the locals and the tourists alike so be sure to add it to your Italy itinerary . 

In addition to being expansive, Lake Garda’s crystalline water is breathtakingly beautiful, with incredible mountains rising magnificently as a backdrop. From the shore, you’ll spot numerous islands on the lake, each steeped in its own unique history.

On the southern shores of the lake is the charismatic and historic town of Sirmione. The town is littered with evidence of human civilization dating back 7000 years. One stunning example is the fortress of Scaligero Castle, surrounded by the lapping waters of the azure Lake Garda. The museum that the castle now houses tells the town’s rich history and the stories of the elite Roman families who used to reside here.

Before leaving, don’t forget to visit the famous Aquaria, the town’s spa known for its thermal bath. Perfect for relaxing at any time of year, but especially wonderful in the cooler months.

Heading to Lake Garda is an easy day trip from Milan, but once you get there, you might feel like extending your mini-vacation. If you do change your mind, check out Hotel Eden and enjoy its terraces that overlook the charming area or many of the other incredible places to stay in Lake Garda .

Day Trip to Bergamo 

Day Trip to Bergamo

The small city of Bergamo is a treat for all those who are searching for Roman history, medieval architecture and scenic sights. Situated in the foothills of the Alps, and littered with houses built in the Middle Ages, this city simply can’t be missed. 

Bergamo is less than an hour’s drive from Milan and is one of its most enjoyable day trips. The highlight of this city is the charming old town situated on top of a steep hill overlooking the “lower town” and the surrounding countryside. The monumental 16th-century Bastions and their imposing entrance gates provide the ultimate welcome.

Before you explore the modern part of the city at the bottom of the hill, take in the Venetian Old Town on foot first. Walking is the perfect way to take in this fascinating town and all its beautiful intricate details. Stop by Piazza Vecchia or Piazza Duomo and let the town transport you to times of long-gone eras and empires.

The charm of this city lies in exploring the twists and turns of the avenues, chic cafes on street corners and enchanting history down each street.

This is the kind of place you would want to lose yourself in, and if you feel like being a part of this old era for a night, check into Al Calicanto and experience Italy like a local, if not then there are plenty of great hostels in bergamo for those on a buget.  

If the high-end fashion malls, winding streets, colourful neighbourhoods, and iconic paintings of Milan have awakened your desire to explore some more of Italy , you’re in luck. Due to its central location, Milan offers a variety of wonderful day trips and with great public transport, they are easier than ever to take.

Day Trip to Lake Como

Day Trip to Lake Como

If you have been to Lake Garda, then you’ll know just how unforgettable the lakes of Italy are. Milanese are truly lucky because they aren’t just close to the largest lake in Italy, they are also less than two hours away from what is considered to be the most scenic lake in Italy – Como.  

Situated at the foothills of the Alps, this lake is shaped like a wishbone and houses some of the most vibrant and picturesque villages along its meandering shores. The calming aura and enchanting views surrounding the lake make it the perfect place to escape, unwind, and take a breath. Equally, if you’re after a fun filled day of adventure then there is plenty to do around the shores of Lake Como .

Visiting the many quaint and charismatic villages along the edges of the tranquil turquoise water is the perfect way to explore this region, whether by foot, boat, bike or car. This getaway is popular with locals escaping the city as well as the modern-day rich and famous from the world over. Just like in the days of ancient Rome, people flock to the opulent villas and lakeside towns of Lake Como.  

Suggested Trips – Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna: Full-Day Tour from Milan , Lake Como and Bellagio Day Trip from Milan

Day Trip to Turin 

Day Trip to Turin

Less than two hours from Milan, sitting right beside the river Po, Turin is a pleasant and captivating city. Turin was once the capital of Italy, and way before that, an epicentre of activities for the Romans. The city today has a thriving cosmopolitan buzz with an undercurrent of Roman charm.  

Like most cities in Italy, this one too can only be truly appreciated on foot. Walk the streets and be enchanted by the baroque architecture from up close. Once you’ve enjoyed a relaxing walk through the city, visit Mole Antonelliana. The spire of this former synagogue is an iconic part of the skyline of Turin. Today, this building serves as the National Museum of Cinema, one of the most visited museums in Italy.

Make your next stops Palazzo Reale and Palazzo Madama, two landmarks of the city. These two breathtaking structures are steeped in history and offer a glimpse at some of the most impressive Baroque architecture ever constructed. Designed by the legendary Filippo Juvarra, Palazzo Madama made such an impression on Napoleon he chose it as his place of residence in Turin.

History buff or not, a day trip from Milan to Turin is akin to travelling back in time. 

Suggested Trips – National Museum of Cinema & Mole Antonelliana Tour , Turin: Zoom Torino Admissions

Day Trip to Lugano

Lugano

When we said Milan was ideally situated, we meant it. Visiting Milan means one day you’re in Italy and the next, you’re looking at the stunning mountain lakes of Switzerland. You can’t miss out on the opportunity to jump over the border, especially when one of Switzerland’s most beautiful towns is only an hour and sixteen minutes by train. 

Lugano is a lakeside city in the Italian speaking region of Switzerland. Located in the popular Ticino the city has a modern outlook with all the charm of a small Mediterranean town.

Located on the shores of the beautiful lake Lugano there is ample opportunity to explore on foot along the waterfront of the Old Town or on a cruise to one of the many smaller neighbouring villages. One of the highlights of the city is the San Lorenzo cathedral which dates back to the middle ages.

The two closest mountains to the city are Monte San Salvatore and Monte Brè, each offering incredible panoramic views of Lake Lugano, the town itself and the surrounding alpine scenery. The village of Brè on the slopes of the mountain offers a well preserved typical Ticino village to explore. So make sure to pack your walking boots for this trip!

If you fancy spending a little more time exploring this region a little further then why not stay at the lovely Luganodante in the city centre.

Day Trip to Genova

Day Trip to Genova

Nestled along the northern shores of the Ligurian Sea, the port city of Genova has an unmatched character you can’t find elsewhere. When the city defeated its rival, Pisa, in the 10 th century, it gained a reputation for its maritime power and is still home to the largest port in Italy. Its industrial side is contrasted by its reputation as the beautiful gateway to the Riviera, gothic cathedrals and grandiose architecture including the Unesco-listed Palazzi dei Rolli.

The narrow, hilly, and twisting alleys ( caruggi ) that make up the Old Town date back to the Middle Ages and have remained largely unchanged. Walking through the caruggi , you’ll get glimpses of huge houses, palazzos, and churches built by wealthy Genoese merchants of times gone by. The maze-like streets are a delight to wander, here you can be transported back to a time when the Republic of Genoa ruled over the Mediterranean. A bit like the bronzed ex-pats of the Costa-Del-Sol do these days!

This two-hour day trip from Milan is definitely worth taking. Genoa is in fact the largest medieval town in Europe, so it’s a pretty cool place to spend the day. Be sure to also check out the massive indoor market at Mercato Orientale Genova for a look at local life.

If you fancy visiting for a little longer the city has some wonderful hostels to stay the night.

Suggested Trips – Genova & Portofino Full-Day Tour from Milan  

Day Trip to Venice City

Day Trip to Venice City

Take the high-speed train from Milan and reach the renowned city of Venice in just two and a half hours. Venice might be popular , but with good reason. The aura and mystic surrounding this city are well-founded, it really is like nowhere else in the world. Ornate marble palaces and grand piazzas built floating in a lagoon in true audacious Venitian style. Instead of cobbled streets, a warren of narrow canals leading to the aptly named, Grand Canal.

There is good reason this is one of the most hyped Milan Day trips, this floating city has endless amounts of charm offering a unique experience due to the outlandish nature of the ancient Venetians. From opulent gothic palaces and sumptuous domed basilicas to local neighbourhoods where the washing dries strung over quiet canals and kids play football in tiny courtyards. I’d be raging if some kids knocked my undies in the water!

Begin your exploration of this great city with St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), the beating majestic heart of Venice. This is the ultimate introduction to Venitian culture and architecture and it’s also home to many of the main sights you’ve come here to marvel at. The Byzantine spectacle of the Basilica di San Marco, the gothic Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s clocktower, and the Campanile are all here. The clocktower, in particular, gives great panoramic views over the city.

Make your next stop the Bridge of Sighs, the tragic yet beautiful architectural landmark that can’t be missed. The beauty of its design is only amplified by the irony that many prisoners crossed well aware of their ill fate, hence the sighs as they took their last look out at Venice.

Whilst exploring give yourself time to escape the busy streets and alleyways around St. Marks and just simply allow yourself time to get lost in the quieter more local areas too. If you decide to extend your trip, have a look at the awesome hostels Venice has to offer.

Suggested Trips – Venice: Full-Day Trip from Milan with Guided City Tour   

Day Trip to Bologna

Day Trip to Bologna

Just under two and a half hours away is Bologna, a city of contrasts, it combines down to earth grit with regal opulence. Known as “Las Grassa” or “The Fat One”, it’s home to come of Italy’s finest restaurants, which is quite some feat lets be honest. You might have guessed already from the name, but the city is famous as the home of the ever popular ‘Bolognase’ sause. It would be rude not to give the authentic version a try… just don’t call it gravy (I’m looking at you America!)

If you fancy a challenge on your day trip from Milan to Bologna, how about scaling the Asinelli Tower, one of “ Le due torri ” that have become a symbol of the city. Both of these thin towers, constructed between 1109 and 1119 lean in opposite directions (Seriously, what is it with Italians and leaning towers !) Burn off some of that delicious food climbing the 498 narrow and rickety wooden steps to the top. If you dare to complete the climb you’ll be rewarded with some breathtaking views over the city, especially at sunset.

Bologna is also home to Europe’s oldest university – the University of Bologna– established in 1088. Despite it’s age, this is where the rebellious and politically active youth hang out, in graffiti filled piazzas and trendy cafes.

Then it’s time to walk the endless porticoes of Bologna and admire the unmatched architectural designs, the play of light and shadows, the symbolic columns, and the magnificent frescos. Many of the porticoes are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and some of them date back to the Middle Ages, while others were built as late as the 20 th century, to accommodate the ever-growing student population.  

Fancy staying a little longer? Check out the wondeful hostels Bologna has to offer.

Suggested Trips – City Centre Walking Tour

Day Trip to Varese

Day Trip to Varese

If you’re not in the mood for metropolitan hustle and bustle, and instead need some respite from chaotic city life, head over to sleepy Varese. Just 50 minutes from Milan, Varese is the ultimate getaway destination to help you stop, relax and take a breather.

Nicknamed “Garden City,” Varese is home to numerous public parks and gardens. It sits nestled at the foot of the Campo dei Fiori di Varese mountain and is surrounded by several expansive national parks including Cinque Vette Park which is home to another five mountain peaks. Here you get the charm of the countryside in a vibrant little city.

Varese is also known for it’s many Art Nouveau buildings and villas, including the famously abandoned, Grand Hotel Campo Dei Fiori that sits on the mountainside overlooking the city. How very ‘accidentally Wes Anderson!”

Once described as Milan’s little Versailles, it’s easy to see why when you visit the glorious Palazzo Estense. This Baroque palace completed in 1760 was once the home of dukes and nobility, today its the local town hall. Take in the best views from nearby Belvedere hill.

Take a laidback stroll down the main street of Corso Matteotti taking in the Mera Arch, the Basilica of San Vittore and the 12th century Baptistery of San Giuseppe which houses some amazingly preserved frescos.

If you want to take more time to explore, or even use Varese as a base to explore Milan and it’s surroundings given how close it is, why not check out this farmstay with a Lakeview .

turin day trip from milan

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

When you visit Italy there really is so much to see and do and it’s all so varied with stunning mountain towns, majestic lakes dotted with villages and well preserved historic cities. Italy has something for everyone and it can be hard not to want to explore the entire country.

Thankfully, Milan is perfectly placed to take in the highlights of Northern Italy. The real challenge if you have limited time is picking which ones to visit, especially when there’s so much to do in Milan itself too. It is the perfectly preserved medival town of bergamo. The legendary floating city of Venice or the effortlessly sophisticated charm of Lake Como or Garda.

Which one-day trip from Milan will you choose for your adventure? Remember to stay somewhere in Milan close to good public transport links in order to maximise your time to explore.

turin day trip from milan

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Nic Hilditch-Short

Nic Hilditch-Short

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12 Gorgeous Day Trips from Milan by Train

Milan is the perfect place to stay during your vacation in Italy. Why? Because it’s so well connected not only to Lake Como and Lake Garda but also to great Italian cities such as Venice, Bologna, Florence and many others. In this article you’ll find the most useful practical information on amazing day trips from Milan by train – doable also by car! 

Day Trips from Milan by Train: Bologna

Hometown to Panettone , risotto alla Milanese and Cotoletta , Milan not only offers delicious traditional dishes but it is also a beautiful city definitely worth a visit.

The capital of Lombardy is the core of railways in northern Italy, therefore it’s very easy to reach pretty much any destination in Italy : thanks to the combination of Frecciarossa bullet trains, Italo and regional trains it is possible for visitors to travel from Milan to Venice or even Florence in just one day.

Hope this article will help you decide which places to visit on day trips from Milan by train ! 🙂

Day trips from Milan by train

PLEASE NOTE that the following places are easily reachable by train . However, you may also consider renting a car   to reach these destinations! This way you won’t be tied to train timetables and you’ll see that driving on Italian highways is not as difficult as it may look.

  • Lake Garda and Verona

Trains in Italy: Frecciarossa VS. Regional Trains

Before reading, you must know a few things on the difference between regional trains and Frecciarossa.

All the locations listed below are worthwhile day trips and perfectly feasible in one day. In regards to Frecciarossa ticket prices , this is the fastest and more comfortable option as they’re bullet trains that reach your destination passing by only a few stops. What you’ll see in the tables below is the cheapest fare that you can get when booking in advance – say at least a month before. 

However, smaller towns such as Bergamo, Mantua and Brescia are not connected by Frecciarossa trains. In this case, you must take regional trains : fares are fixed but seats cannot be reserved , therefore, even though you can easily purchase your ticket the day before traveling, you’re not guaranteed a seat.

1. Lake Como

Day Trips from Milan by Train: Lake Como

“This lake exceeds anything I ever beheld in beauty [..] it has the appearance of a mighty river winding among the mountains and the forests”

These are Percy Bysshe Shelley ’s words describing beautiful Lake Como in 1818. 

Even nowadays the lakeside towns are certainly the most famous attractions: Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio are only a few of the cozy small towns rich in historical villas and their well-kept gardens, churches and little shops selling local foods and handicraft, jewellery and clothing. Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio are very well-connected one another: check the ferry timetable to organize your trip in advance!

The villas around Lake Como play an important role in attracting tourists from any part of the globe. If you’re wondering why, the reason is that their beauty is astonishing : built between the 16th and 19th century, the villas are considered architectural masterpieces with gorgeous gardens displaying an unrivalled palette of colors in Springtime. 

Some examples are Villa Balbianello, Villa Melzi d’Eril, Villa Fogazzaro, Villa Monastero, Villa D’Este, Villa Pliniana. Particularly appreciated is Villa Carlotta , in Tremezzo, Como. Here you can get to see works of art by Canova and Hayez , together with the beautiful garden and magnificent architectural structure.

How to Get to Lake Como from Milan by Train

2. lake garda and verona.

Day Trips from Milan by Train, Verona

Lake Garda is one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy and, therefore, is certainly a top-rated day trip from Milan . 

Bordering with Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino , Lake Garda offers beautiful panoramas and a wide range of typical products: from Lake Garda DOC wines such as Lugana DOC to DOP products like Grana Padano, Provolone Valpadana, extra virgin olive oil and, last but not least, juicy lemons used for jams and lemon-scented liqueurs and olive oil.

Take the train from Milano Centrale in the morning and head for Verona , the romantic city chosen by Shakespeare to set one of his most famous works, Romeo and Juliet . Nowadays, it’s considered a good luck sign to touch the statue of Juliet’s breasts situated below Juliet’s balcony.

In the historical center of Verona you’ll see one of Italy’s best-preserved arenas dating back to Roman times, where major concerts and opera festivals take place. Also the gates around the city are Roman works as well as underground excavations.

When on your way back, stop in Desenzano del Garda, a nice town on the lake ideal for an Italian style aperitivo with Spritz .

How to Get to Verona from Milan by Train

Venice Grand Canal, Italy

Venice, the capital of the Veneto region, is a must-see for first time visitors to Italy and, therefore, one of the best day trips from Milan . Canals, gondolas , beautiful buildings and magical atmosphere are all elements contributing to the beauty of this city.

Among the most famous attractions in Venice are Rialto bridge, St. Mark’s basilica and square, the Doge’s Palace, Scuola Grande di San Rocco, Ca’ d’Oro and the islands of Murano and Burano, which became famous thanks to the great glass workers. 

However, there are also hidden gems in Venice that not everyone knows! Have you ever heard of Scala del Bovolo in Palazzo Contarini, or Acqua Alta Bookstore , a peculiar Venetian-style bookshop? Also, typical Venetian food is something you want to try. To enjoy a traditional Venetian aperitivo, have a Spritz or a glass of Prosecco with cicchetti or sarde in saor , the typical Venetian-style sardines.

How to Get to Venice from Milan by Train

top rated attractions in Padua

Padua is a very fascinating city: what makes it so appealing is the presence of cozy bars and restaurants (called “ bacari ”) where you can eat great typical food and wines – think of Prosecco and Amarone della Valpolicella!

All over the city you can see the evidence of how great Renaissance artists such as Giotto, Donatello , Piero della Francesca and many others changed the Italian history of art. An example is certainly the Scrovegni Chapel frescoes , now part of Padova Urbs Picta , the14th-century fresco cycles that have been included in the Unesco World Heritage List.

Padua is famous all over the world for the University of Padua – one of the oldest in Italy – and the Basilica of Saint Anthony , where the relics of Saint Anthony are still visible. Nonetheless there are other top rated attractions to visit in Padua awaiting for you!

How to Get to Padua from Milan by Train

theater, vicence, palladio-515655.jpg

Without stepping out of the Veneto region, it is worth visiting the city of Vicenza , an easy day trip from Milan by train .

In Vicenza you’ll be amazed by the Palladian Villas: Villa Valmarana and Villa La Rotonda are the most well-known and easily reachable on foot . It takes about 30 mins from the city center but the walk is nice as you are along a bike path surrounded by the green .

Andrea Palladio , the famous Italian Renaissance architect, also designed the gorgeous UNESCO heritage Teatro Olimpico (“Olympic Theatre”) in the 16th century. You’ll particularly like the trompe-l’œil onstage scenery designed by Vincenzo Scamozzi as it gives the appearance of long streets receding to a distant horizon. This theatre is one of the three Renaissance theatres remaining in existence in Italy!

As you’re in the land of cod, you cannot leave without trying the Baccalà alla Vicentina , Vicenza-style stockfish: a signature dish of Vicenza.

>> More info on Vicenza and its typical food in my article Veneto, Typical Food and Wine Itinerary .

How to Get to Vicenza from Milan by Train

Day Tripd from Milan by Train: Bologna

Bologna is the capital of Emilia-Romagna and is famous mainly for two things: the University and the food. 

First off, you must know that the University of Bologna is the oldest university in Europe : a committee of experts chaired by the famous Italian poet Giosuè Carducci, established its foundation in 1088. 

In Piazza Maggiore you’ll see the famous Neptune’s fountain and a few historical buildings dating back to the 13th and 16th century. The Torre degli Asinelli is a landmark of Bologna you cannot miss: go up the 498 steps and enjoy a wonderful view of the city from above!

Speaking of food , what are Bologna’s signature dishes ? There are many traditional foods in Bologna, but the most well-known are certainly tagliatelle with Ragù alla bolognese and tortellini . 

Have an aperitivo in the area called “ Il Quadrilatero ”, the ancient market of Bologna. Here you can get to taste delicious prosciutto with tigelle , a typical flatbread similar to piadina but smaller, and a glass of Pignoletto Classico DOC .

How to Get to Bologna from Milan by Train

7. florence.

How to Get to Florence from Milan by Train

Florence is situated in northern Tuscany and it’s hands down one of the most worthwhile day trips from Milan . Even though it’s hard to see everything one day, if you’re short on time you can select the best things to see in Florence and enjoy them all the same.

The main landmarks are certainly the magnificent Renaissance style Santa Maria Novella Church , Santa Maria del Fiore with its gorgeous bell tower by Giotto and dome by Brunelleschi , Florence Cathedral, Ponte Vecchio , whose original structure dates back to the Romans, Piazza della Signoria , where you can see the Fountain of Neptune.

Explore the Uffizi gallery , hosting important works of art by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, Giotto, Piero della Francesca and many others.

When visiting Palazzo Pitti , which served as the main residence of the Medici family, take a peek into Boboli gardens , a great example of Italian gardens .

Of course, don’t forget to try the Florentine steak (Bistecca alla Fiorentina) and the wonderful Zuppa Toscana .

How to Get to Florence from Milan by Train

How to Get to Turin from Milan by Train

Only 1 hour away from Milan is Turin, the capital of Piedmont .

Broad avenues, huge piazzas and arcades characterize this city, together with the main landmarks: the Royal Palace , The Mole , where you can visit the Museo del Cinema , and one of the most important museums in Italy, the Egyptian Museum .

Turin is famous for its cafés: the magical atmosphere will bring you back to the city’s Golden Age while sipping a bicerin , a typical type of coffee invented in Turin.

Also, you cannot miss to try bagna cauda , a convivial dish meant to be shared with family and friends, accompanied by a glass of Freisa d’Asti DOC, and other signature dishes of Piedmont, such as Agnolotti del Plin , fritto misto and vitello tonnato. If you try these foods in a restaurant, ask the staff the best Piedmontese wines to pair them with!

How to Get to Turin from Milan by Train

Certosa di Pavia

Pavia , situated about 40 km away from Milan along the Via Francigena, is one of the most attractive art cities in the Pianura Padana. 

In one day you can visit the main landmarks : the medieval Visconti Castle , the Basilica of San Pietro in Ciel d’Oro , the Pinacoteca Malaspina , Pavia Cathedral , to which Leonardo da Vinci contributed, the Ponte Coperto , an arch bridge over the Ticino river connecting the historical center to the rest of the city.

Pavia’s most famous attraction is the Certosa di Pavia , a monastery built by the first Duke of Milan, Gian Galeazzo Visconti , at the end of the 14th century. What’s most interesting about the complex,  composed of the church,  the cloisters and  the museum, is that it displays different artistic styles , from the late Gothic to the Renaissance.

You must try Pavia’s rice , as it is the typical product of the province, traditional dishes with eel, snail, goose and frog, together with a glass of the local Oltrepò Pavese DOC . Pavia is also the hometown of Torta Paradiso , a dessert famous all over Italy.

How to Get to Pavia from Milan by Train

One thing you need to know about the Certosa di Pavia is that it’s not in the city center .

In fact, to get to the monastery , you must take the train from Milano Rogoredo (see table below) as trains from Milano Centrale  don’t stop at the Certosa but go directly to Pavia city center.

My advice is to visit the Certosa in the morning and reach the city center in the afternoon. On your way back to Milan, you can take the regional train from Pavia to Milano Centrale .

10. Bergamo

One Day Trips from Milan by Trains: Bergamo

Bergamo, located 50 km east of Milan , attracts visitors for many reasons.

One of the best things to see in Bergamo is Città Alta (or Bergamo Alta), the upper town, is a hidden gem worth your time. Built in the Middle Ages , Upper Town is surrounded by the Venetian walls , now UNESCO heritage , which once served as protection against the invasors.

Also, Bergamo cuisine is something you want to try. A great example of traditional food in Bergamo is polenta e osei (meaning polenta and birds), not to mention Casoncelli and Scarpinocc. Old recipes have been handed down generation after generation, and now we can enjoy simple but good food and wine .

In fact, here you can discover the Valcalepio Wine Route and its homonymous wine, but also the smallest DOCG wine in Italy : Moscato di Scanzo DOCG . 

Have a glass of Moscato with local cheeses and other typical foods in the best traditional restaurants in Bergamo .

How to Get to Bergamo from Milan by Train

Bes things to see in Mantua

Mantua is surely worth visiting given its historical and artistic importance . It was once the cradle of the Italian Renaissance of which we can still see evidence in buildings like Ducale Palace, Basilica di Sant’Andrea and Palazzo Te, not to mention great Italian Renaissance artists such as Andrea Mantegna , who painted the Chamber of the Bride situated in St. George’s Castle. In fact, in 2016 Mantua was named Capital of Culture .

Also, the traditional food in Mantua is amazing: Pumpkin Tortelli (tortelli di zucca), meat Agnoli in broth and Capunsei (sort of gnocchi made of bread and Parmesan) are the typical stuffed pasta you must try in the city.

As a second course, popular are Bigoli con sarde (thick pasta similar to spaghetti with pilchards) and Pike in sauce (pike served with a sauce made of capers, pickled bell peppers, parsil, garlic and onion). Don’t miss Mantua’s signature dessert: Sbrisolona can be found anywhere in the city so give it a try, you won’t regret it 😉

How to Get to Mantua from Milan by Train

12. brescia.

One Day Trips from Mila by Train: Brescia

Brescia has become a famous tourist destination thanks to Christo’s artwork “ The Floating Piers ” visible – and walkable – on lake Iseo in June 2016. 

In Brescia city center, you cannot miss to visit Santa Giulia Museum Complex , offering a journey through Brescia’s history and art from prehistoric times up to the present day. 

Don’t forget to have a taste of the typical cuisine of Brescia : manzo all’olio (beef in oil), Brescia-style Casoncelli , polenta taragna and Bossolà, a traditional Christmas dessert . Of course, all these delicious dishes deserve the right glass of wine : opt for a Franciacorta DOCG , the first DOCG sparkling wine   made with a classic method.

If you have the chance, take a ferry and reach Monte Isola , from where you can admire the astonishing view of the mountains reflected on the water. If you’re lucky enough, you’ll see the island covered with colorful flowers during the “ Santa Croce Festival ”. Taking place every 5 years, this celebration is well-known all over the Sebino   area.

How to Get to Brescia from Milan by Train

Hope my article on day trips from Milan by train will be helpful to plan your visit to Italy! 🙂

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7 Incredible Day Trips from Turin, Italy to Get You Out & About in Piemonte

We can’t think of a better place to stay than Turin in northern Italy. Not only is the city fabulous, but there are tons of great day trips from Turin that you don’t want to miss. Read on for our favourites!

What’s in our guide to day trips from Turin, Italy?

When our friends ask us to recommend our favourite places in Italy, Turin is always at the top of the list.

Turin might be less famous than Venice , Rome, and Florence, but that means fewer tourists, too. And that means less hassle, less chance of a run-in with pesky pickpockets or temperamental taxi drivers and more real Italian experiences.

Plus, from Royal Palaces to pristine parks to a world-class Egyptian Museum to a panoramic glass elevator , Turin has plenty of things to do for curious visitors.

Once you’ve seen the best that Turin has to offer, there are plenty of day trips from Turin to get you out and about into the glorious Piemonte countryside.

Read on for our recommendations of…

7 Incredible Day Trips from Turin, Italy

Don’t Miss These! Our guide to 2 days in Venice plus our huge collection of travel tips for Europe to get the most from your Europe trip!

1. Sacra di San Michele — An Awe-Inspiring Day Trip from Turin

sacra di san michele interior

Part of a network of abbeys dedicated to St Michael, Sacra di San Michele is a mountain-top retreat that makes for a perfect day trip from Turin. Even if you aren’t interested in the religious aspects of San Michele, the views from the top of the mountain looking out over the Susa river valley might just make you think you’ve seen God.

At the very least, the ruined abbey perched on a clifftop will get your creative juices flowing, as they did for Umberto Eco, who found inspiration in Sacra di San Michele for his most famous work, The Name of the Rose .

So whether you want architecture, magnificent views, or religious history, a day trip from Turin to Sacra di San Michele should be on your list.

How to Get to Sacra di San Michele from Turin

You can drive up, hike up from the nearest train station, or take a tour. Just make sure to pay close attention to the complex opening hours.

Read our complete guide to visiting Sacra di San Michele for more details.

2. Barolo / Langhe Wine Region — A Day Drinking Trip from Turin

barolo italy vineyards make a perfect day trip from turin

One of the world’s most famous wine regions is just an hour’s drive from Turin. The region encompasses about a dozen charming Italian towns, including Barolo, Monforte d’Alba, Castiglione Falletto, and more.

Even if you’re not a wine lover, this UNESCO region is beyond beautiful, with every inch of steep hillside covered in well-ordered vineyards. If you’re into wine, you’ll be in heaven, with opportunities to taste on every corner and the chance to buy wines you might never get your hands on anywhere else in the world.

If you want to take a souvenir case or two home, there are lots of places that will ship them back for you, too.

( Related: Check out this guide on Wine Folly for everything you need to know about visiting Barolo. )

How to Get to Barolo from Turin

By car. The most convenient way to do a wine region tour is to rent a car and drive from Turin. There are trains that take you to the region but then you are stuck with no way to get from town to town.

Hop-on hop-off bus . From September 1 to November 3 on Saturdays and Sundays, you can buy tickets to the hop-on hop-off Langhe region bus run by Trenitalia. The bus departs from Alba, which you can easily reach by train from Turin Porta Susa. Buy your ticket in advance, or just purchase your ticket on the bus.

Barolo wine tour . There are various tours available online for the Barolo wine region. If you don’t want to drive, or you prefer to have a guide to help you navigate the confusing region, booking a tour like this one might be the best. Note, we haven’t taken this tour and don’t know what it’s like, so do your research before you book!

3. Chieri & Martini Rossi — A Charming Village Day Trip

day trips from turin chieri

A small town about a 20-minute train ride from Turin, there’s nothing particularly noteworthy about Chieri. That’s kind of why we love it.

It’s a typical Italian town that houses retirees and families who commute into the city for work.

The pedestrianized main street of Chieri makes for a charming stroll and an excellent place to shop for souvenirs or new clothes. There’s a branch of Eataly in town too, so you can pick up some artisanal local products or have an authentic Italian lunch that even Italians love.

While in town, you can stop by the impressive Santa Maria della Scala to get closer to God.

For those of a less religious nature, Casa Martini might be of more interest. This is the original production house where Martini & Rossi first began making their world-famous Vermouth. You can tour the facility, taste the wares (of course), or learn the fine art of mixology.

How to get to Chieri from Turin

Take the train to Chieri from Porta Susa. It goes around once every hour and takes 28 minutes.

4. Gran Paradiso — A Wild Day Trip from Turin

stephen enjoying the view in gran paradiso

From Turin, you can see the Alps ring around the city, like mighty guardians, ready to defend and protect. If you’re anything like us, you will hear the mountains calling your name from the city centre.

A trip to Gran Paradiso is your answer. This grand national park on the border with France is a protected area of wilderness and the perfect day trip from Turin for nature lovers.

In summer, you can rock climb or hike or bike the trails in the park, even camping overnight at one of the many shelters and huts. In winter, there is skiing (both downhill and cross country), plus ice climbing and snowshoeing. Once you go, you’ll wish you set aside more time to immerse yourself in this beautiful natural spot.

Check out our guide to visiting Gran Paradiso for details on where to go and how to get there from Turin.

5. City Day Trip from Turin to Milan

milan cathedral in the rain a perfect day trip from turin

While many people base themselves in Milan and take a day trip to Turin, we recommend the opposite. You can easily reach Milan by train from Turin in about an hour. Tour the famous sights and be home in time to share apertivo with Torino natives (instead of fighting for space in overpriced restaurants with all the tourists and expats in Milan).

If you prefer a quieter city with less hassle and no touts or pickpockets to speak of, we highly recommend basing yourself in Turin and just taking a day trip to Milan.

How to get to Milan from Turin

Take the train from Torino Porta Nuova to Milano Centrale. Trains leave around every 20 minutes and take from 1 hour to 2 hours, depending on which train you get.

(Don’t miss: Our guide to doing a day trip from Milan to Turin ) →

6. Susa Roman Ruins — Day Tripping with the Ancients

view over the city of susa

Just 50 km west of Turin, the town of Susa makes the perfect day trip for people who want to indulge in Roman history. Susa became part of the Roman Empire in the 1st Century and was the capital of the small Roman province of Alpes Cottiae.

In Susa, you can visit the well preserved Roman city walls, the city gate Porta Savoia, the remains of the aqueduct and an amphitheatre. The most notable ruin is the well preserved Arch of Augustus, a triumphal arch built to seal the alliance between Emperor Augustus and Marcus Julius Cottius.

How to get to Susa from Turin

A direct train runs hourly from Torino Porta Nuova to Susa, taking 1 hour and 8 minutes.

7. Cycle the Historic Ivrea Canals — A Two-Wheeled Day Trip

view over the city of ivrea which makes a great day trip from turin

Rarely visited by tourists, Ivrea is a picturesque town just 50 km northeast of Turin. If you want to do an independent visit, it has a castle, a cathedral, and Roman ruins — most notably the impressive amphitheater of Ivrea — to keep you occupied. It’s also your chance to sample the rich yet simple Canavese regional cuisine .

For active travellers, we suggest an e-bike tour along the agricultural irrigation channels, some of which have been there since the mid-1400s. You’ll cycle through Italy’s rice fields (yes, Italy has rice fields!) and stop for “lunch in a special place that Marco knows”. It doesn’t get more Italian than that.

Find all the details of this tour (and many more) on the Giroola website .

How to Get to Ivrea from Turin

Direct trains leave from Torino Porta Susa about once every hour and the journey takes about an hour.

If you’re visiting northern Italy, don’t miss Torino, where you’ll get to mix and mingle in real Italian culture (rather than the somewhat Disney-fied version you find in the more well known Italian cities). If you have some time to spare, there are plenty of interesting, beautiful, and exciting day trips from Turin to keep you busy.

Whether you want architecture, artisanal tipples, grand expanses of nature or a bit of everything, you can find it in a day trip from Turin.

We hope this guide to day trips from Turin, Italy has been useful! We loved our three months staying in Piemonte and can’t wait to go back!

♥   Happy transformational travels, Jane & Stephen

We’re not going to lie, it takes a LOT of work to create travel guides like this. But it’s easy to help us out! If you book or buy something using one of our personal links in this post, we’ll earn a small fee at no extra cost to you. Of course, we would never recommend anything we didn’t 100% believe in! Huge thanks in advance! –S&J

Visiting Turin? Don't miss these 7 incredible spots which are all within easy reach of the city. These are our favourite day trips from Turin. #italy #turin #travel

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Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Day Trips from Milan

15 Best Day Trips from Milan

Milan, Italy’s fashion capital, is resplendent with options for the visiting tourist.

With its chic high-end shops, myriad winding streets to explore, and plentiful beautiful buildings to admire, there is a lot to keep you occupied.

Don’t venture further afield before you’ve climbed up to view the city from the roof of Milan’s Duomo, sampled a rainbow of flavours from one of the many gelato vendors around the city, and of course, snatched a peek at Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper – after elbowing your way through all the crowds.

Only then can you think about exploring the best day trips from Milan :

1. Lake Como

Lake Como

Head to Italy’s third largest lake for the day, and experience a luxurious cruise around its waters.

You’ll admire the stunning alpine scenery from the bow of the boat, as well as getting the chance to take a sneak peek at the beautiful waterside properties on its shores.

Combine the lake visit with a tour around Como city at its southern tip, whose historic centre is sure to charm you.

Spend a relaxed couple of hours meandering through its pretty streets, and perhaps take a ride on its funicular, taking it all in before you return to the bustle of Milan.

2. St. Moritz, Switzerland

Lake St. Moritz

You might be surprised to learn that Switzerland is just a day trip away from Italy’s capital.

Hop on the Bernina Express from Tirano and you’ll be there in just two and a half hours.

The journey itself is worth it: this is the steepest rail journey in the world, ascending from 429 metres up to over 1800 in the Swiss mountains.

The stunning alpine scenery viewed from the train window will mean you won’t want to leave the train.

You’ll end up in the Swiss town of St. Moritz, one of Switzerland’s most famous mountain resorts.

There’ll be time enough to fully explore before you head back down the mountains on the train.

Bergamo, Italy

A visit to Bergamo is often combined with a trip to Lake Como, but it’s well worth a day of exploration in its own right.

With historic walls stretching for five kilometres to encircle the old town, and plentiful medieval architecture to look at, it holds significant intrigue for tourists wanting a pretty place to spend the day.

Ride the funicular from the bottom to the top of the town, and take a look at Bergamo’s significant monuments, such as the St. Maria Maggiore Cathedral and the Colleoni Chapel.

Finally don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate Bergamo’s incredible surrounds, with hills stretching for miles, all the way down to distant Lake Como.

4. Franciacorta

Franciacorta

The Franciacorta region offers some spectacular, award winning wines for you to sample, in amongst splendid Italian scenery.

Get the chance to meet the wine producers themselves, and ask questions about the process of wine making, and what makes their particular brand so delicious.

The boutique wineries of Franciacorta really do offer something special.

And of course, what would a visit to Milan be without setting aside time for shopping? The Franciacorta design outlet has plenty of bargains to offer a savvy shopper, so make sure to get your hands on the goods here.

Venice

What could be better than taking a trip to one of Italy’s most prized romantic cities, waterway-crossed Venice? Though it’s hard to fit all of Venice’s delights into just one day, you can certainly try.

Wander its cool, cobbled streets, have a coffee in the famous Piazza San Marco, and perhaps stretch to riding a gondola through the canals for a truly luxury experience.

You’ll no doubt be suitably charmed by the sparkling lagoon and fantastic architecture that characterises one of Italy’s most popular cities for tourists.

If you still have time, head over to one of Venice’s nearby islands, such as Murano with its famous glass-blowing traditions, and perhaps purchase a trinket to take back home.

6. Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre

The picture-perfect Cinque Terre is a brilliant place to visit, especially for those who might want to get that perfect Instagram shot.

With layer upon layer of rainbow-hued houses perched upon hillsides, the five villages of Cinque Terre are sure to surprise and delight visitors.

Keep your camera out for this visit: you certainly won’t regret it.

These UNESCO World-Heritage listed lands are certainly one of the most picturesque sights in all of Italy.

You likely won’t have time to explore all five, but there’ll be time enough to wander round Monterosso al Mare and Vernazza, grab an ice cream and watch the fishermen at work.

Pure bliss.

7. Lugano and Bellagio

Bellagio, Italy

Often referred to as the ‘pearl of Lake Como’, it’s easy to see why Bellagio merits a spot on the list of best day trips from Milan.

Simply sit back and enjoy the ambience of this wonderful city, sampling its best food and drinks.

Afterward, head over the border to Lugano, and enjoy the fabulous scenic delights of the Swiss Alps along the way.

This is your chance to sample world-renowned Swiss chocolate, and perhaps buy some as a souvenir for friends and family back home.

Or keep it to yourself…

8. Lake Maggiore & the Borromean Islands

Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore and its cluster of pretty islands is certainly worth a day away from Milan.

Grab a hop-on, hop-off ferry pass and spend the day jumping from island to island across the sparkling water.

Start from Stresa, on the shore, and make your way slowly to Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori to check out their individual charms.

With the sun in the sky there could hardly be a more tranquil way to spend some time on your Italian holiday.

Be sure to take a look at the Palace Museum and Gardens on Isola Madre, and spend some time browsing for souvenirs on Isola dei Pescatori.

9. Lake Garda

Lake Garda

You could hardly take a trip to Italy without paying a visit to its largest and most famous lake, Lake Garda.

Travel by train through the beautiful Lombard countryside to reach it, and enjoy its Mediterranean climate on arrival.

You’ll be able to spend some time out on the water on a quick cruise, as well as travelling to the gorgeous lakeside towns of Sirmione and Desenzano.

The ‘pearl’ of the lake, Sirmione has much to offer tourists: a fortress, a Roman villa, and the Catullo caves.

The port of Desenzano also has a spectacular medieval castle.

Verona

Shakespeare’s fair Verona certainly merits an excursion – and it is surely just as pretty as he described.

Follow in the footsteps of the world’s most famous lovers, Romeo and Juliet, through the streets immortalised in his play.

You’ll get the chance to see the very balcony from which Juliet wondered ‘wherefore art thou Romeo?’

Beyond Shakespeare, Verona has other strings to its bow.

Check out the fantastic Roman amphitheatre, built in the first century AD, or head downtown to take a look at the Piazza Mercato.

11. Genova and Portofino

Genoa

This day trip away from the busy city sees you explore the gorgeous Ligurian coast.

Genova, Italy’s largest port, holds much delight for tourists, with many important monuments and an old town which has in part been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

While you’re exploring the coastline, move further along to spend some time in the colourful village of Portofino and its neighbour Santa Margherita Ligure.

Take in the picturesque sight of fishing boats bobbing along the water, and breathe deeply in the salty air, before you head back city-wards.

12. Interlaken & the Swiss Alps

Interlaken, Switzerland

Who’d have thought that just a few hours’ journey from Milan lay the glorious Alpine scenery of Interlaken? After a journey on the ‘Green Train of the Alps’ you’ll find yourself in a different world from the busy city: mountain lakes and lofty peaks and gorgeous green countryside.

Interlaken is a great place simply to get lost, but if that’s not tempting enough for you, how about a sample of that famous Swiss chocolate?

13. Maranello Ferrari tour

Maranello Ferrari

One of Italy’s most well-known and well-loved appeals is the Ferrari brand.

If high-speed cars zipping round race tracks is your thing, this day trip will certainly be high up on your list.

Spend the day immersing yourself in all things Ferrari, with a trip to Maranello.

Check out the test track where factory-fresh cars are put through their paces, learn more about the brand and its history in the Museo Ferrari, and glory in the exhibits of old-style cars in the gallery.

For more Formula 1 fun, head to the Museo Casa Enzo Ferrari to learn about its 40-year history.

14. Florence

Florence

Beautiful Florence is certainly a must visit on an Italy adventure.

It’s a brilliant place just to spend a few hours wandering round, but it also has a whole host of important cultural attractions, such as the famous Uffizi art gallery and the impressive Duomo offering panoramic city views from the top.

Make sure you check out the Ponte Vecchio, where the Medici family once trod, and the jewellers who set up shop along its length.

Turin, Italy

Italy’s first capital, Turin, is of course most famous for its shroud depicting the face of Jesus.

However, there’s a lot more to it than a length of cloth.

During your visit you should certainly make time for the baroque church of San Lorenzo and the cathedral, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.

Even just strolling along Turin’s tree-lined boulevards is a highly enjoyable way to spend your day, or sitting back to relax in one of its many cafes.

15 Best Day Trips from Milan:

  • St. Moritz, Switzerland
  • Franciacorta
  • Cinque Terre
  • Lugano and Bellagio
  • Lake Maggiore & the Borromean Islands
  • Genova and Portofino
  • Interlaken & the Swiss Alps
  • Maranello Ferrari tour

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Home » Europe » Italy » 13 BEST Day Trips from Milan, Italy

13 BEST Day Trips from Milan, Italy

By Author Georgie Cunningham

Posted on Last updated: February 14, 2024

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Whether the Italian lakes or the Bernina Express, the seaside charm of Portofino or the romance of Verona, these are the best day trips from Milan!

day trips from milan

Welcome to Milan, one of the most beautiful cities in all of Italy.

This city is famous for all sorts of reasons. Its impressive architecture – it’s home to both the Duomo Cathedral, the 5th largest in the world, as well as the mediaeval Sforza Castle.

There’s also the art – Leonardo Da Vinci spent 18 years of his life in Milan and his legacy is recognised throughout the city with museums, statues, and a dedicated art trail.

But to me, a main highlight is the location. There are some seriously cool day trips from Milan just moments away. It’s a really good base for exploring more of northern I t aly and Switzerland too.

best day trips from milan

There’s the famous Italian lakes – Como, Garda and Maggiore are all easily reachable – to coastal towns like Rapello and Portofino. 

Not to mention that you can easily make it to parts of Switzerland (catching picturesque views of the Swiss alps on the train along the way). There are so many Milan day trips it’s hard to choose which one to do first!

That’s what this blog is for though, to help you decide which one is for you. I’ve also listed some of my favourite tours too so you don’t need to worry about a thing.

Right, that’s enough chit chat. Let’s get to it!

Best Day Trips from Milan, Italy

milan to lake como day trip

Italy’s biggest lake, and one of the most famous in the country, Lake Garda is an awesome place to spend your day.

It’s a pretty simple journey: a two hour journey by car, or just under an hour by train (the most convenient station is Peschiera del Garda). 

At Lake Garda you can enjoy the views of the pristine lake and the mountains that surround it, though in my humble opinion the best way to experience the lake is via boat tour. If you’ve got kids, take them to Gardaland , one of Italy’s best theme parks.

Otherwise, spend some time strolling around the beautiful nearby town of Sirmione. There’s tons to see here, from the Medieval Scaliger Castle and thermal baths to the Roman ruins.

Bernina Express

day trips from milan by train

If you want the best views of the mountains, the Bernina Express is the experience for you.

This is one of my favourite day trips from Milan by train, and it’s not even entirely in Italy. You’ll start out in the Swiss alpine town of St Moritz before boarding one of Europe’s most picturesque and panoramic train rides. Finally, you’ll finish in the Italian city of Tirano.

One of the simplest ways to do this trip is to take a guided tour. It’ll save you lots of hassle; otherwise you’ll need to drive 2 hours to Tirano to kick things off. I’d recommend this one as it’ll give you free time to explore both locations.

lugano

Want to spend a day in another part of Switzerland? Head to Lugano .

This is one of the prettiest Swiss cities. Sitting on the northern shore of Lake Lugano , there’s tons to see and do here. First up, there’s obviously the lake – a great spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, or boat rides. 

There’s also Monte San Salvatore, a mountain with incredible views at its peak. Be sure to head to the top for a look at the views, you can either hike or take the funicular. 

Otherwise, stroll around Old Town or wander around the Parco Ciani gardens for the best lake views.

Cinque Terre

day tours from milan

Cinque Terre is one of the most beautiful places in Italy so it’s well worth a day trip from Milan.

This is a series of 5 colourful, coastal villages, standing on cliffs overlooking the sea. Cinque Terre is about 3 hours from Milan by car, and there’s no direct train, so I’d recommend taking a guided tour . 

On this particular trip you’ll get a guided tour of Monterosso al Mare, the largest village, as well as a boat trip to La Spezia. That easily makes it one of the best Milan tours in my book.

lake como

This is one of the most famous lake in Italy, and the Milan to Lake Como day trip is as popular as they come.

On the shores of the lake sit vibrant, colourful villages and sweeping luxury villas, and surrounding it all are scenic views of the mountain.

You can explore the city of Como and its gothic architecture, have fun on the promenade, or take a boat cruise along the lake. 

Alternatively explore some of the surrounding villages – I’d recommend Bellagio and Varenna the most. A guided tour like this one will take you to both.

day trips from milano

If lakes aren’t your thing, head to the Italian coast instead. Genoa (sometimes known as Genova), is just the place.

One of the highlights is the ancient city centre, Centro Storico. In this neighbourhood you’ll find historic architecture plus landmarks like the bronze fountain on the Piazza de Ferrari, plus churches and Gothic cathedrals that have been standing for centuries. 

Don’t forget to check out the palaces or the iconic Porto Antico where you can spot ships along the water. 

Genoa can be reached by train (1.5 hours), by car (2 hours) but there are lots of Milan tours that’ll take you here too. On this one you’ll also get to visit Portofino!

Rapallo and Portofino

milan to portifino day trip

You don’t have to visit Genoa to visit Portofino though. Instead, combine with a trip to Rapello for a proper day on the Italian coast.

Rapallo is a town on the Italian riviera, reachable in just two hours by direct train from Milan. As well as enjoying views of the water, check out the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montallegro on the hilltop (take the cable car up for the best riviera views), as well as Rapallo castle on the shore.

From Rapallo, take a boat to Portofino and soak up the riviera. 

Bologna 

bologna 

Bologna is everything you’d want from a classic Italian city: pretty, historic, and home to some pretty incredible food. I mean, it’s literally the birthplace of Bolognese sauce. 

It’s also home to the oldest university in the world, dating back to the 11th century. 

Anyway, I’d highly recommend a day trip to Bologna. Explore Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno (the latter of which is home to the incredible Fountain of Neptune). Head up one of the many towers to take in breathtaking city views and whatever you do, don’t skip lunch.

To get to Bologna, board a direct train from Milan. The journey will take just under an hour and a half. Alternatively, it’ll take two hours in the car. 

If you’re planning a trip to the city, then you can check out some of the best free things to do in Bologna here which should save you some £££.

Lake Maggiore

lake maggiore

Lake Maggiore is another one of Northern Italy’s famous lakes. But that’s not the main draw of this location as a day trip from Milan.

Actually, the Borromean Islands are usually the main enticer. This is a group of islands right in the middle of the lake, famous for their biodiversity, though the most popular for visits are Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori. 

There’s tons to see on these islands, from grand palaces to botanical gardens. If you’ve got extra time, explore the town of Stresa, or take the scenic train ride on the Centovalli Railway – this will take you through the Hundred Valleys where you’ll see waterfalls and picturesque villages.

To visit Lake Maggiore, take the train to Stresa – it takes just under an hour.

Bergamo 

bergamo 

Bergamo is one of the quickest and easiest trips from Milan; it’s just 40 minutes on the train, or an hour by car.

Surprisingly, despite being an incredible city in its own right, Bergamo isn’t as popular with tourists as others. It’s a bit of a hidden gem actually.

Bergamo is divided into two sections: Lower Town and Upper Town. Upper Town is my favourite part – it’s ancient and the funicular up there almost acts as a time machine. Step through the iconic Porta San Giacomo gate and you’ll be greeted with historic Venetian walls, Palazzo della Ragione, and the bell tower. 

Explore Piazza Vecchia, the Accademia Carrara, and much more (I genuinely could go on and on).

turin

Another super easy Milan day trip is Turin. Again, it’s just 40 minutes on the train, and there’s tons to see and do here. 

A city set with the picturesque alps on the horizon, Turin is home to striking neo-classical and Art Nouveau architecture. 

In terms of what to see, there’s the Royal Residences, including the Palazzo Reale, and museums like the Turin City Museum of Ancient Art and the Egyptian Museum . There’s also the landmark of Mole Antonelliana, which is home to the National Museum of Cinema, plus an observation deck over the city.

varese italy

Nestled at the foothills of the alps, you’ll find the city of Varese. One of the main appeals of this day trip is the Sacro Monte di Varese , a collection of 14 ornately decorated chapels which are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Other things to see around Varese include Villa Panza, an 18th century villa, as well as museums, ancient churches, and of course Lake Varese.

Varese can be reached in 50 minutes by train or an hour by car. 

Verona 

milan to verona day trip

Finally we have Verona , probably best known as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. You can even visit Juliet’s house – Casa di Giulietta, thought to be the house that inspired Shakespeare – complete with its famous balcony.

There’s tons to see in this city even if you’re not a fan of 16th century tragedies: Arena di Verona (a preserved Roman Amphitheatre), the Ponte Pietra bridge, the Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore. There’s also the Piazza della Erbe, Verona’s busy and bustling centre, where you can find shops and restaurants housed in Mediaeval buildings.  

Verona is just over an hour away by car or two hours by train. Alternatively, take a guided tour combined with a trip to Lake Garda. 

Those are my favourite day trips from Milan, but what are yours? Tell me all about them in the comments!

If you’re heading to the big capital city, then check out my guide to the best food tours in Rome . This is perfect for eating your way through the city!

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13 BEST Day Trips from Milan, Italy

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Turin or Milan: 18 Important Things to Consider Before Deciding Which City to Visit

While I’m not keen on comparing destinations, I totally get why you’re wondering if you should visit Turin or Milan.

Only a one-hour train ride from one another, these northern Italian cities are two of the largest in the country, both great candidates for a European getaway.

If you only have time to visit one of them, I’m here to explain all the differences and similarities that will help you choose the right destination for you, Milan or Turin.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

*As a partner of the Get Your Guide affiliate program, I got a 15% discount when I purchased my Torino+Piemonte Card . That said, I always share my honest opinions.

Turin or Milan: Which city should you visit if both are on your northern Italy bucket list

Table of Contents

IS MILAN WORTH VISITING?

I’ve heard mixed opinions on Milan. Some say there’s not much to do there, and others can’t get enough of it and keep coming back.

After visiting myself, I can confirm that there’s no shortage of things to do in Milan, and I personally like it very much (and think it’s worth a trip), but I also see why it’s not everyone’s cup of tea.

What’s notable in this city is the contrast between the old and the modern – centuries-old landmarks and world-class art museums surrounded by luxury brand stores, traditional trattorias alongside international cuisine restaurants, and Renaissance architecture vs skyscrapers.

On paper, that sounds like a dream, but in real life, this significant contrast makes some people adore Milan while others don’t think it’s worth the hype, because if only one specific aspect of the city attracts you, many activities might not seem appealing to you.

Interiors of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan

IS TURIN WORTH VISITING?

Absolutely! It’s one of those destinations you’re not entirely sure what to expect from because it doesn’t get that much attention, but then it completely surprises you and wins you over.

From its beautiful historic center and its landmarks & museums that literally anyone can enjoy to irresistible food and chocolates to stunning surroundings, Turin is an amazing northern Italian city.

I know you can say that about a lot of places, so let’s dive into everything these two cities have to offer. 

THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING TO VISIT TURIN OR MILAN

Number of tourists.

Different sources show different statistics, so I don’t want to mislead you with inaccurate numbers, but it’s no secret that Milan is one of the most visited cities in Italy (and Europe), much more than Turin.

That doesn’t mean that you can’t find quiet places in Milan or that every corner is overcrowded, but it is something to consider when trying to find your ideal city break destination.

That also doesn’t mean that there are no tourists in Turin (most of whom are actually Italians), but it seems like the Piedmontese capital is still a hidden gem and an underrated city, unlike places like Rome, Florence, and Venice (and as you may already know, I adore underrated destinations).

Piazza della Consolata, a lovely square in Turin Italy

BEAUTY AND OVERALL VIBE

I’m here to give you my honest opinions, so without sugarcoating anything, I’ll say that both cities are home to beautiful and not-so-pretty areas.

Turin has its lovely historic center and the elegant Crocetta neighborhood, and Baroque is the dominating architectural style, while Brera and Corso Garibaldi were my favorite spots in Milan, a leading Italian Renaissance city.

That said, I did find Turin more pleasant to wander around.

I also enjoyed the atmosphere of both Turin and Milan (because I’m a sucker for northern Italian cities and probably because I visited them in December).

But again, I have to give the advantage to Turin, mainly because it’s a lot less touristy, so it feels more traditional and authentic.

Buildings on Corso Garibaldi in Milan

I don’t know if you’ve ever picked a destination because of its history, but since it makes a huge difference in the kinds of landmarks you can visit, I thought I’d give you a quick introduction to Turin and Milan’s past.

Both areas were inhabited since ancient history and settled by the Roman Empire.

Fast forward, Milan was ruled by the noble Visconti family and the House of Sforza, and later, by the Spanish and Austrian Habsburg monarchy, while Turin was the capital of the Duchy of Savoy, Kingdom of Sardinia, and the unified Kingdom of Italy, all ruled by the House of Savoy.

Both cities were also temporarily governed by Napoleon, so as you can see, Milan and Turin are strongly connected to powerful dynasties. 

Now it’s time to introduce you to some of the most amazing historical landmarks from those significant eras, so you can decide which ones you’re more eager to visit.

Royal Gardens of Turin Italy on a cold sunny day

HISTORICAL LANDMARKS

Top landmarks in milan.

You might not expect that, but some of the most notable monuments in Milan are religious sites.

The most famous one is, of course, the  Duomo di Milano  (Milan Cathedral), the city’s crowning glory. This impressive Gothic building is one of the largest churches in the world, which took almost 600 years to complete.

Near Parco Giovanni Paolo II, you’ll find the 5th-century  Basilica San Lorenzo Maggiore  alongside the Roman-era  Columns of San Lorenzo .

Also worth visiting are the 4th-century Romanesque-style  Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio  and the  Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie , a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a museum that houses Leonardo da Vinci’s infamous Last Supper mural.

Duomo di Milano on a sunny day

Next to the Duomo, you can’t miss the world’s oldest shopping center, the beautiful  Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II , which dates back to the 19th century. 

Unless you’re looking to buy from luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Swarovski, I can only assume you’re not actually going to shop there (even the more affordable Louis Vuitton handbags require some splurging), but the architecture is totally worth admiring, and you can also have a meal or coffee there (head to Marchesi 1824 for dessert).

A stone’s throw away is the 18th-century  La Scala  opera house, where you can enjoy ballet, opera, and classical music concerts and performances or take a behind-the-scenes tour.

Last but not least, the stunning medieval  Sforza Castle  (Castello Sforzesco), which served as a fortress and a royal residence of the House of Sforza, is another highlight in Milan.

It’s home to eight museums, such as the Pinacoteca del Castello Sforzesco, the Museum of Ancient Art, and the Museum of Musical Instruments, which you can visit for a small fee, but you can also just admire its exteriors and wander around its charming courtyards for free.

Sforza Castle views from its main courtyard

TOP LANDMARKS IN TURIN

As someone who adores Italian palazzos and villas, I was thrilled to visit so many in Turin and around it.

The entire region of Piedmont is home to more than 10 royal residences of the House of Savoy, several of which are situated in the city itself.

The most important one is the 16th-century  Palazzo Reale  (Royal Palace), which will also give you access to the entire group of Royal Museums (Musei Reali), including the Royal Armoury, Galleria Sabauda, and Museum of Antiquities.

Next to it is  Palazzo Madama , which now functions as an art museum, and nearby, you’ll find  Palazzo Carignano .

On the other side of the river stands the lovely  Villa della Regina  with its stunning park, and Valentino Park hides the enchanting  Castello del Valentino .

Painted ceiling of the Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace of Turin)

If you’re looking for other types of monuments, the park is home to another photogenic Turin landmark, the  Borgo Medievale , which is a gorgeous replica of a Piedmontese medieval village.

Let’s not skip out on the most prominent building in Turin’s skyline, the impressive  Mole Antonelliana , which was originally built to serve as a synagogue but now houses the National Museum of Cinema, the world’s tallest museum!

If that’s not enough, the Roman-era  Palatine Gate , the 15th-century  Turin Cathedral  (home of the  Shroud of Turin ), and the Pantheon-like  Church of Gran Madre di Dio  will surely impress you too.

Mole Antonelliana, the building that houses the National Museum of Cinema Turin

MUSEUMS IN MILAN

Italy is renowned for its world-class museums. Milan’s forte in that aspect is art, design, and history, so if you’re a hardcore museum lover, this city might be the right one for you.

I’ve already mentioned the  Sforza Castle , which houses eight museums (art, archeology, and more), as well as the museum in the complex of the UNESCO-listed church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, where you’ll find the  Last Supper . But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Considered one of the most exquisite galleries in all of Italy, the  Pinacoteca di Brera  is home to an Italian art collection with pieces from eight different centuries. At  Gallerie d’Italia , you’ll find artworks from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Design lovers will enjoy the  ADI Design Museum , the  Triennale , and the  Armani/Silos  fashion museum, and if that’s not enough, more art awaits you at  Museo del Novecento ,  GAM , and  Museo Poldi Pezzoli .

If you’re looking for something different, you can also add the Leonardo Da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology to your Milan itinerary .

The palazzo that houses the Pinacotea di Brera in Milan

MUSEUMS IN TURIN

What I adore about Turin’s museums is that many of them cater to all ages and that even travelers who are not avid museum lovers will be eager to visit them.

I’ve already mentioned the Mole Antonelliana, which houses the jaw-dropping National Museum of Cinema , and the Musei Reali (Royal Museums), which include the Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace), the Galleria Sabauda, and the Museum of Antiquities.

Also situated in the historic center is the mind-blowing  Egyptian Museum , the second-largest in the world. It is an absolute must-visit, boasting an impressive collection of antiquities such as papyrus, tombs, statues, and even mummies.

Another spot I’ll gladly go back to is the interactive  Lavazza Museum , which takes you on a fascinating journey through the brand’s history and coffee production process.

I also loved the  National Automobile Museum,  with its beautiful collection of vehicles (from 19th-century cars to futuristic ones).

If you find yourself missing the “classic” art and history museums, head to Palazzo Madama (which houses the municipal museum of ancient art), Accorsi Ometto Museum of Decorative Art , GAM , Museum of the Risorgimento , or Gallerie d’Italia (only open in Turin since 2022).

The main hall of the Royal Armory of Turin

OTHER POINTS OF INTEREST

Beyond sightseeing, wandering freely around both cities will allow you to discover other exciting points of interest.

Milan has its canal district, Navigli, which I loved exploring, but it’s definitely not the “Venice of Milan”, so I get why some people were not too impressed by it. It’s pretty serene in the morning and comes to life after dark.

Next to the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie is Leonardo da Vinci’s vineyard in the garden of Casa degli Atellani, which was granted to him by the Duke of Milan.

And if you love strolling through parks as much as I do, don’t miss the vast Parco Sempione and the Guastalla Gardens, a total hidden gem in Milan .

Turin is also full of fun surprises, including the scenic lookout point of Monte dei Cappuccini, Porta Palazzo (the largest outdoor market in Europe), and the Balon del Sabato flea market.

The pond in the Guastalla Gardens in Milan Italy

ACCOMMODATIONS

Both cities are home to all types of accommodations, from hostels, aparthotels, and apartments to guesthouses, B&Bs, and boutique hotels, so in that aspect, you have a variety of options.

That said, when it comes to your budget, note that Milan is significantly more expensive.

For example, in Turin’s historic center (the best area to stay in the city for first-time visitors), you can find highly-rated (8.5+) mid-range accommodations for €90-€110 per night for a double room.

Many apartments in the historic center, as well as accommodations in other neighborhoods, charge less than €80 per night.

In Milan, €90 can get you two beds in a dorm room in a hostel, not necessarily in the heart of the city center, where it’ll be very rare to find highly-rated (8+) accommodation for less than €150 per night.

That is what you’ll pay even in less central areas (though you might find deals for €120-€130).

If you don’t mind spending more, it won’t be a problem to find your ideal place to stay in either city, though I still think the value for your money is better in Turin.

To help you understand what to expect in terms of prices and location, here are a few examples of mid-range accommodations in Turin and Milan:

  • Porta 92 Romana (Milan)
  • Brera Prestige B&B (Milan)
  • Savoia Suites Torino (Turin)
  • Casa della Contessa B&B (Turin)

A beautiful room inside Villa della Regina in Turin Italy

So we’ve already established how much money you’re likely to spend on accommodation, but what about attractions and food?

In Turin, where I believe you’ll want to visit quite a few landmarks and museums, you can buy the Torino+Piemonte Card or Royal Pass and enjoy the high value of this one-time investment.

Instead of paying €10-€18 for each site, the Torino+Piemonte Card offers FREE entrance to most attractions in the city and region. It’s reasonably priced in comparison to what you get, so it actually saves you money (the 5-day card saved me at least €50).

Similarly, Milan has the  Milano Card  (cheap but only offers a small discount on attractions) and the  Milan Pass  (offers free entrance to some sites but is pricey), so neither seemed worth it to me.

That means you’ll still spend quite a bit on attractions in Milan (each one costs €5-€20), card or no card.

Regarding food prices, you can find cheap eats (€5-€7) in both cities (yes, even in Milan, especially if you love street food), as well as mid-range traditional trattorias and more expensive fine dining restaurants.

A street in the Brera district in Milan

It’s safe to say that delicious meals await in every corner of Italy, and if you’re longing for comfort food, northern regions like Piedmont and Lombardy have got you covered.

Piedmont is the region where the sustainable Slow Food movement was born, and its typical dishes include gnocchi al Castelmagno, risotto al Barolo, and agnolotti (a type of stuffed pasta).

Let’s also not forget that Turin is the Italian chocolate capital – the birthplace of solid chocolate (that’s right) and the heavenly combo of cocoa and hazelnuts – so if you’re a chocoholic, this city will win you over (and you must try gianduiotto , cremino , and bicerin) .

Milan is also a foodie’s paradise, with dishes like polenta, risotto alla Milanese (with saffron), and  riso al salto  (crispy rice pancake).

In both cities, it’s also easy to find risotto or fresh pasta with porcini mushrooms (a favorite of mine).

In addition, Turin and Milan boast a variety of historic cafes and pasticcerias (Italian pastry shops), international cuisine restaurants, fine dining restaurants, and more.

Gnocchi al Castelmagno in the city center of Turin Italy

If you’re wondering which city is a better shopping destination, Milan or Turin, I’ll say it depends on what you’re looking for in a shopping destination. Is it cheap prices? A large variety of stores? Unique items?

Known as a fashion capital, Milan is automatically seen as a city where you can shop till you drop, but how much are you willing to spend?

In many places, such as the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Rinascente shopping center, and Fashion District, you’ll mostly find luxury brands like Prada and Gucci or high-end concept stores.

On Via Torino, you’ll find more affordable brands, including Stradivarius, Mango, and Primark. You can also look for local boutiques, vintage shops, and outlets in Milan, but prices vary.

Turin also offers a mix of luxury and everyday brands (find them on Via Roma, Via Lagrange, and Via Garibaldi in the historic center), yet it feels more balanced.

cartier shop facade in Milan

I’m not gonna lie – I’m not a night owl and not a nightlife kind of person, so I’ll do my best to help you understand what each city has to offer after the sun sets.

Starting off with the Italian happy hour – the  aperitivo  tradition – you might be surprised to know that it was born in Turin.

In both cities, most cafes, restaurants, and bars offer an aperitif, which includes a drink and some snacks, though some places open a full buffet.

What’s next?

In such a trendy, cosmopolitan city like Milan, it’s no surprise that you’ll find a good mix of clubs, high-end cocktail bars, live music shows, cozy pubs, and more.

Turin is also diverse in that aspect, and if you’re visiting for only a few days, you’ll have more than enough options, though in Milan, due to its size and the high number of tourists, you’ll have things to do at night in almost every neighborhood and more venues to choose from.

While you can technically visit Turin as a day trip from Milan and vice versa, that wouldn’t be the most common thing to do.

From Turin, you should definitely travel to beautiful places in Piedmont , including the Palace of Venaria, Palazzina di Caccia of Stupinigi, and Alba.

The region, in its entirety, is quite underrated, so this is a wonderful opportunity to explore northern Italy off the beaten path .

In Milan, you have even more day trip options, as trains connect it to dozens of cities and towns across several regions.

From destinations in Lombardy , such as Lake Como, Bergamo, and Brescia, to must-visits like Verona, Bologna, and Florence, the number of places you can get to in less than 2 hours is uncanny.

That said, I wouldn’t try to see some of these cities in just one day (Florence, for example), so choose your day trips wisely.

Great Hall of the Palace of Venaria near Turin Italy

WHEN TO VISIT

Considering their location in Italy and proximity to one another, Milan and Turin have similar weather throughout the year.

I visited both in December when they wore a festive look (which I obviously loved), and I got lucky with cold yet mostly sunny days, so I think they make fantastic winter destinations in Europe .

That said, quick average-temperature research proves that they’re great to visit from spring to fall, though rainy days should always be taken under consideration.

In terms of special events, apart from Easter and Christmas celebrations, it’s good to know that there’s no shortage of unique occasions to attend.

Turin hosts events like the Torino Jazz Festival in the spring, the electronic music  Kappa FuturFestival  in the summer, and the chocolate festival CioccolaTÒ in late fall.

Milan also has its jazz festival, as well as Carnival in February ( Carnevale Ambrosiano ), fashion weeks in February and September, and the rock  Milano Summer Festival .

Partial views of Milan Duomo and its christmas market

GETTING AROUND

Even if you plan the most efficient, walkable itinerary, you will still have to use public transport in Milan and Turin. But don’t worry, they both have a great system of metro, tram, and bus lines.

Because of the stations’ location, the metro is very convenient in Milan, while you’re more likely to use buses and trams in Turin.

Single, daily, and multi-day tickets are all available, making it extremely easy and budget-friendly to get around these cities.

To give you an idea of what you’ll pay, a single ticket costs €1,70 in Turin and €2 in Milan, and a 3-day card costs €10 in Turin and €12 in Milan.

HOW MUCH TIME IS “ENOUGH” IN EACH CITY

I’m all for Slow Travel, but I know the time limitations most of us have, so it’s important to find the sweet spot between having enough time to experience these cities properly and keeping it practical.

Turin itself deserves at least a 4-day long weekend (Friday-Monday) and extra time for day trips. 

Milan is a bit tricky because how much time you’ll want to spend in the city depends on your interests. Personally, I recommend exploring Milan for three days and then taking at least one day trip.

In both cases, if you book a trip of 5-6 days, you’ll have the flexibility of spending more or less time in the city and taking more or fewer day trips.

The Palatine Gate in Turin Italy which dates back to Roman times

Bad incidents with locals can ruin your trip or at least make you negatively remember some parts of it, so I’m happy to say that locals were very friendly in both Milan and Turin and that I personally only had positive experiences.

WHO ARE YOU TRAVELING WITH

Turin can be an amazing destination for all kinds of groups of travelers (AND solo travelers) – mother & daughter, a group of girlfriends, couples, families, etc.

I wouldn’t be keen on traveling alone in Milan (though it’s very much possible), and while you can find things to do there with kids, I think they’ll enjoy Turin more.

In any European city, you should be aware of pickpockets and avoid walking at night in sketchy areas, so even though both Milan and Turin are considered safe for tourists, following basic safety rules is always recommended.

Again, because Turin is less touristy, I felt less concerned about pickpocketing (not complacent, just not as worried as I was in other destinations in Europe), but there’s no reason to be scared about visiting Milan either.

Illuminated Duomo of Milan Italy at night

CHOOSE TURIN VS MILAN IF…

  • You want to visit an underrated authentic Italian city
  • You’re looking for non-conventional museums that people of all ages will enjoy
  • Royal palaces are right up your alley
  • You’re a chocoholic
  • You’re looking for a base to explore the region of Piedmont

Read more about Turin:

  • Things to do in Turin
  • Turin in winter
  • Turin travel tips
  • Long-weekend itinerary for Turin
  • Cafes in Turin
  • Reasons to visit Turin
  • Aosta Valley road trip from Turin

CHOOSE MILAN VS TURIN IF…

  • You want to visit a trendy cosmopolitan city
  • You love “classic” art and history museums
  • You enjoy visiting cathedrals and churches
  • You’re looking for a vibrant nightlife scene
  • You don’t mind spending some extra cash on accommodation, attractions, and shopping
  • You want to have a variety of day trip options in several regions

Read more about Milan:

  • Road trips from Milan
  • Things to do in Milan when it rains

MILAN OR TURIN: MY PERSONAL CHOICE

I loved Milan. I really did. I had an amazing trip, and I do think Milan is worth visiting.

But I fell in love with Turin at first sight. It was a gift that just kept on giving – I enjoyed discovering an authentic historic city that wasn’t overpromoted on IG, every one of the landmarks and museums was beyond exciting, my chocoholic needs were met, and the overall atmosphere was truly enchanting.

Now, let me know in the comments if this post was helpful and which city you decided to visit!

Facade of the Palazzo Carignano in Turin

MORE ITALY TRAVEL GUIDES

Read more about Italy:

  • Things to do in Vicenza
  • Northern Italy road trip itinerary
  • Day trips from Milan in winter
  • Places to visit in Italy in winter
  • Road trips in Italy
  • Italy travel quotes
  • Italian piazzas
  • Romantic novels set in Italy
  • Gifts for Italy lovers
  • Places to visit in Central Italy
  • Best girls’ trip destinations in Europe

About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

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9 replies to this topic

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Otherwise, there are so many other options using regional trains, lots of them practically unknown by mass tourists: Bergamo as said, then Monza, Pavia, Vigevano, Lodi, Piacenza...

In Turin, the Egyptian Museum (one of the most important in the world), the Cinema Museum and the Automobile Museum are interesting.

turin day trip from milan

Turin is lovely, a very elegant former royal capital, and less full of tourists than Milan or Florence , and Bergamo is vey pretty.

Elegant city. Once the capital of the Savoy dynasty who came to rule over a small empire in the c. thousand years it lasted . Depending what you are interested in you can target specific things to see. Most are in the center reasonably close to the station. e.g. Egizio(Egyptian), Oriental museum, Royal Palace complex etc. ( Car museum is further out) More info here:

https://abbonamentomusei.it/ricerca-musei/?filtering=1&regione=piemonte&provincia=TO&categoria=&titolo=

Enjoy your trip.

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José Mourinho, in a shirt and tie, slings the silver UEFA Cup trophy onto his right shoulder.

The On Soccer Newsletter

Where’s the Next Generation of Great Coaches?

A trip back to 2004 suggests even sure things can sometimes be a gamble.

José Mourinho, back in his trophy-collecting days. Credit... Estela Silva/EPA, via Shutterstock

Supported by

Rory Smith

By Rory Smith

  • March 15, 2024

Twenty years, it would appear, is a very long time indeed. This week, a brief video montage fluttered through the flotsam and jetsam that clog my (and your) social media feeds — the engagement-farming banalities, the craven attention-seekers, the willfully deranged Kate Middleton theories — to celebrate the glorious madness of 2004.

That was the year, after all, when Greece won the European Championship, a triumph so unexpected that at least one squad member had to rearrange his wedding around the team’s progress. The Greek triumph came a few weeks after Porto, led by a charismatic young coach with hair more pepper than salt, lifted the Champions League trophy.

That was after Werder Bremen finished the season as champion of Germany and Valencia secured its second Spanish title in three years. Whoever compiled the video did not even need to mention the victory by a Colombian minnow, Once Caldas, in the Copa Libertadores to declare that 2004 had been a year for the underdog.

The compilation clip could, at a push, be used as a sort of generational Rorschach test. It might inspire, in older viewers, that bittersweet pang of nostalgia, the ghost of a memory that this is how things used — and therefore ought — to be. Werder Bremen should be able to win the Bundesliga. Porto should be contenders to be champion of Europe. You might not want to watch Greece win the Euros again, but it was nice that it happened.

Younger fans, though, may well interpret it differently. They have grown up in an era of dominance and dynasty, in which the sport’s major teams have established unprecedented primacy over their rivals, and stasis has become the truest marker of excellence. The sight of all of these unfamiliar teams lifting trophies might reinforce their suspicion that soccer is rather better now than it was then.

There are two things worth pointing out in rebuttal. The first is that 2004 was an outlier even by the standards of the time. The previous six editions of the Champions League, for example, had been won by Manchester United, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and A.C. Milan. And the second — albeit obvious only with the benefit of hindsight — is that it was a liminal year.

The best measure of that came between seasons in a summer of considerable change. In the space of three months, half a dozen of Europe’s major clubs appointed new managers. Some of the candidates they appointed were successful. Some were not. Some, it would emerge later, had strongly-held beliefs about the healing powers of cheese .

The German soccer manager Felix Magath, in a gray suit on a team bench.

To modern eyes, though, what is most striking is how risky so many of those hires seem now. Juventus’s decision to appoint Fabio Capello — his mien, even then, that of a stern immortal hewn from basalt — appeared a safe bet, but many of the others were not.

Inter Milan hired Roberto Mancini, who had won only one honor, a Coppa Italia, as a coach, and had most recently led Lazio to an unspectacular sixth-place finish. Bayern Munich went for Felix Magath, the cheese enthusiast, on the back of a celebrated playing career and his guiding Stuttgart to fourth place in the Bundesliga.

Real Madrid followed a similar playbook: José Antonio Camacho was one of the club’s more beloved alumni, a factor that probably played as significant a role in his appointment as the Portuguese Cup he had won in his brief spell in charge of Benfica.

Indeed, even the two standout hires on the market — José Mourinho and Rafael Benítez — came with caveats. Mourinho had turned Porto into champions of Europe, something that even in the olden times of the early 21st century was not really supposed to happen, but he was not yet 40. His fire had burned impossibly brightly, but (at that stage) worryingly briefly.

Benítez, unlikely as it sounds now, was arguably the more cautious choice. His Valencia team had won two Spanish titles in three seasons, and had just lifted the UEFA Cup. Still, his résumé was not flawless: Before joining Valencia, he had been a somewhat peripatetic figure at relatively minor Spanish teams. It was not enough to dissuade Liverpool, though, from bringing him on board.

Two decades on, this summer is likely to bring coaching change on a similar scale. Liverpool, Barcelona and Bayern Munich already know that they must appoint new managers. There is a reasonable chance that A.C. Milan, Juventus, Chelsea and Manchester United will join them.

And yet the field of suitable candidates feels impossibly small. Aside from Xabi Alonso — currently unbeaten in his first full season in management, sweeping magisterially to the first title in Bayer Leverkusen’s history — the pickings seem relatively thin.

There is Rúben Amorim, winner of a Portuguese title and a couple of domestic cups at Sporting. There is Sebastian Hoeness, who would probably not be pleased to be depicted as a modern-day Magath but who has also taken Stuttgart to the Champions League. There is Roberto De Zerbi, the early promise of his Brighton tenure now starting to fade.

The cases for each seem almost outweighed by caveats; with any of their appointments, there would be the unavoidable feeling of taking a shot in the dark. Amorim has worked only in Portugal. Hoeness has never won a major honor. Brighton is no adequate proving ground for the pressures of Old Trafford or Turin’s Allianz Arena.

It is this, of course, that makes that suite of appointments in 2004 seem so alien, that makes the contrast between then and now seem so stark. Of course, a modern team would appoint a manager like Mourinho who had just won the Champions League. Of course, a coach who had won any of the major domestic leagues on a first try would be in demand by bigger clubs.

But those things do not happen anymore, not really. It is the fact that Alonso is on the cusp of achieving it that makes him so exceptional, and so compelling. Even the sort of success Mancini or Magath had enjoyed is vanishingly rare, so greedily do the elite gobble up major trophies, so desperately do they cling to their places near the summit of their domestic leagues. Nobody will ever make a video declaring 2024 the year of the underdog.

For a vast majority of coaches at the start of their careers, no matter how talented they may be, all they can hope to muster is a form of qualified success: outperforming their salary bill; employing a bold and daring style; surviving in Europe for long enough to win some fleeting kudos.

At the same time, even that is no longer necessarily enough. The task of managing Sporting — with its squad of young promise and gnarled journeymen — is a world away from taking charge of the superstars at Barcelona or Manchester United. Coping with the stresses of Stuttgart is no longer adequate preparation for the expectation to win every game at Bayern Munich.

That is why, in recent years, those managers who have landed the game’s most prestigious jobs have either played for those clubs — Frank Lampard, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Xavi Hernández — or already managed one of their rivals. There is a chasm between the great and the merely good, and the perception is that nobody is able to jump it.

In reality, of course, that is not true. Just as Benítez and Mourinho and Mancini managed to grow into the roles they earned in the summer of 2004, so Amorim or Hoeness or De Zerbi might look an inspired appointment from the vantage point of 2044.

Whether any of the superpowers are brave enough to take that chance today, though, is a different matter. It is a problem entirely of their own making. And only they, ultimately, have the power to solve it.

The curious case of the missing shootouts

The long wait ended in the tumult of the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday. After years of disappointment, of desperate near misses and bitter failures, Arsenal finally made it happen: The Premier League leaders failed to score a second goal against a resolute F.C. Porto, ensuring that the Champions League would — after eight long years — see a penalty shootout.

Of course, what with fate being a cruel and mocking force, a second duly followed: On Wednesday, Atlético Madrid took Inter Milan to penalties, too, with Diego Simeone’s side eventually winning to take a place in the quarterfinals of Europe’s somewhat jaded elite club competition.

Those two shootouts were — remarkably — the first the tournament has seen since Atlético’s defeat to Real Madrid in the 2016 final. We have, in other words, managed almost eight editions of a knockout soccer tournament, one designed to taper into a single, evenly-matched fixture, without a single game going to penalties. And that, scientifically, seems weird.

In these situations, there is an overwhelming desire a) to find an all-encompassing explanation and b) to ignore the fact that, sometimes, stuff just happens. That second bit remains the likeliest rationale, but there are other factors worth considering.

It might, to some extent, be a consequence of European soccer’s increasing wealth gap: The last 16 and even the quarterfinals have, in recent years, grown ever more lopsided as power in the European game has become concentrated among a handful of teams.

But the level to which the true elite have pushed the game may be just as relevant. As the very best teams have become impossibly intricate tactical masterpieces, so, too, have they become more vulnerable to systemic failure: If a certain gambit does not work, or is exposed by the opposition, they are more liable to being overwhelmed.

There was something refreshing about the games in London and Madrid this week. This is how European soccer used to look, and used to feel — a welcome blast of nostalgia in a competition that has an obsession with modernity, with the future, with the next big thing.

Liverpool, then, will be the next to fall. In the coming months, the club intends to join the likes of Manchester City, Chelsea, Brighton, Aston Villa and a host of others and “expand its portfolio,” a piece of euphemistic jargon that means it will buy another soccer team, strip it of its existential purpose and place it in a form of corporate service.

Liverpool’s hierarchy believes it has little or no choice but to join the growing ranks of rich clubs with expansive, club-owned feeder systems. Establishing a network of teams is the only way the club can compete with its rivals, as Michael Edwards — the celebrated sporting director now restored to Anfield as the head of soccer operations for the team’s owner, Fenway Sport Group — put it this week.

It is easy to see why Edwards and F.S.G. believe that. Soccer seems at some point to have agreed that multiclub ownership was the way forward. Some 300 or so clubs are now part of these models, inspired by the likes of City Football Group and the Red Bull herd. Many more will follow: Newcastle, among others, is exploring its options, too.

The problem is that the argument in favor of this approach does not extend much beyond the fact that everyone else is doing it. The benefits seem indistinct: sharing a little information, spreading a few costs, centralizing the development of the occasional player.

The hazards, on the other hand, are clear: not just a threat to competitive integrity across Europe, but the wholesale erosion of the rich, varied mosaic that has been the sport’s strength, replaced by the unapologetic diminution of social institutions in the interests of unchecked greed and ambition. Whether that cost is worth the benefit is a question too few seem to ask.

Correspondence: a Kilmarnock special

Something of a change of pace this week: just a single piece of correspondence, courtesy of David Heath . Correspondence, in fact, may not be the right word. David’s email was really more of a confession, the expiation of a jersey-related sin that seems to have been burdening his soul for some time, brought about by our discussion last week of how teams choose which jerseys to wear.

A couple of decades ago, while David was serving as chief executive at Kilmarnock, a middleweight club in Scotland, he — in his own words — “set aside all semblance of sporting integrity in pursuit of a European place.

“This moral descent,” he admitted, “culminated in the ‘Red jersey affair.’” This, it would seem, is the source of David’s shame.

As some of you may know, Kilmarnock traditionally plays in very fetching blue-and-white stripes. It always has. That season, its away jersey was yellow. There was also a red jersey, for use — in theory — when Kilmarnock met a team on the road that also played in yellow. (Motherwell, Livingston, maybe Partick Thistle?)

We’ll let David take up the story (with light edits). “We had a few away games at a crucial juncture of the season in our third red jersey. This was designed in part to boost sales of this unusual and popular color over the Christmas period. The club went on an excellent run of form, though, and the jerseys took on a talismanic status.

“With a vital home match looming, I was approached by a delegation consisting of the kit manager, team manager and commercial manager pleading with me to find a means of playing at home in the red jersey. Mesmerized by the allure of our precious red, I approached the league secretary directly.

“He was an amiable, if firm, gentleman, always willing to interpret league rules in a flexible manner but also resolute in their enforcement. In what he would later class — somewhat Homerically — as ‘dissembling indirectness,’ I explored with him scenarios in which a club might resort to ‘emergency kit management.’

“At the time, we reused jerseys extensively and had our own in-stadium laundry. The sudden malfunction of that laundry at the last moment could not have been reasonably foreseen. Faced with the potential of a match’s postponement in front of an expectant crowd, I had no alternative but to send the team out in the red jerseys.

“In a subsequent display of pettiness by the league, we were allowed no further games in red that season, went into decline and finished seventh.”

This, presumably, was all the proof that David needed that Kilmarnock’s red jerseys did, in fact, have some special power. “The following season, we promoted it to our away kit,” he said. “We finished a strong fourth.”

Rory Smith is a global sports correspondent, based in the north of England. He also writes the “ On Soccer With Rory Smith ” newsletter. More about Rory Smith

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    Its Via Musei was part of a Roman road leading to the Lombard capital, Milan, and its ruins are seriously impressive. Apart from history, it's an elegant town with great shopping and is perfectly placed midway between Lake Garda and Lake Iseo. How Far: Around 1 hr 15 mins by car or 36 mins by high-speed train.

  19. 7 Incredible Day Trips from Turin, Italy to Get You Out & About in Piemonte

    Gran Paradiso. 5. Milan. 6. Susa Roman Ruins. 7. Cycle the Historic Ivrea Canals. When our friends ask us to recommend our favourite places in Italy, Turin is always at the top of the list. Turin might be less famous than Venice, Rome, and Florence, but that means fewer tourists, too.

  20. 15 Best Day Trips from Milan

    Pure bliss. 7. Lugano and Bellagio. Source: iryna1 / shutterstock. Bellagio. Often referred to as the 'pearl of Lake Como', it's easy to see why Bellagio merits a spot on the list of best day trips from Milan. Simply sit back and enjoy the ambience of this wonderful city, sampling its best food and drinks.

  21. Turin Day Trip from Milan 2023

    See more of northern Italy when you're in Milan, and discover the nearby city of Turin on a day trip. Offering an easy way to get there plus a tour to check off the highlights, this comprehensive day trip cuts out the hassle of organizing a visit yourself. Hear the history behind Turin landmarks like the Mole Antonelliana, get insider tips for restaurants, and have ample free time to explore ...

  22. 13 BEST Day Trips from Milan, Italy (2024 Guide)

    Cinque Terre is one of the most beautiful places in Italy so it's well worth a day trip from Milan. This is a series of 5 colourful, coastal villages, standing on cliffs overlooking the sea. Cinque Terre is about 3 hours from Milan by car, and there's no direct train, so I'd recommend taking a guided tour .

  23. Turin or Milan: 18 Important Things to Consider Before Deciding Which

    DAY TRIPS. While you can technically visit Turin as a day trip from Milan and vice versa, that wouldn't be the most common thing to do. From Turin, you should definitely travel to beautiful places in Piedmont, including the Palace of Venaria, Palazzina di Caccia of Stupinigi, and Alba.

  24. Days trips

    One day in Milan itinerary 5:00 pm. Arrival around 9, 10pm, where to go 4:06 pm. Bernina Red Train 2:32 pm. Dining near Via Ruben's 21 12:56 pm. Hotel J24 Maciachini - Safe area? 12:11 pm. Milan luggage storage 11:15 am.

  25. Where's the Next Generation of Great Coaches?

    March 15, 2024. Twenty years, it would appear, is a very long time indeed. This week, a brief video montage fluttered through the flotsam and jetsam that clog my (and your) social media feeds ...