4 Day Trips From Milan
4 Getaways from the Northern Italian Metropolis
During my monthlong stay in Milan last summer, I fell in love not only with the city’s vibrant art, rich history, and undeniable sense of style but also with its unbeatable location—a gateway to some of the most stunning destinations in the region. Whether I wanted to escape the sweltering summer heat, wander through picturesque lakeside towns, or venture across the border into Switzerland for a change of scenery, Milan offered endless possibilities for memorable adventures. Here are some of the day trips that made my stay truly unforgettable.
Camogli: A Coastal Getaway with Pesto and Aperitivo
A week into my time in Milan, I wanted a refreshing escape from the sweltering summer heat. The Ligurian coast, just a three-hour train ride away, proved to be the perfect remedy. There’s something truly magical about sitting by the sparkling sea with a chilled aperitivo in hand, the salty breeze whisking away all the stress. This was followed by indulging in trofie al pesto, a regional specialty that effortlessly captures the heart of Ligurian cuisine—simple, fresh, and profoundly delicious. Even during the busiest tourist season, this coastal haven maintains that ideal balance of vibrant energy and serene calm, making it my go-to destination for soaking in the picturesque ambiance while savoring the rich flavors of Italy.
Lugano: A Swiss Lake Adventure
The second week of my stay in Milan, I decided to hop across the border for a day in Switzerland. Lugano was the perfect choice. A short train ride took me to breathtaking mountain views and the serene lakeside charm of this Swiss gem. I started with a funicular ride to take in the panoramic views of the lake, followed by a Lebanese lunch — an unexpected but delightful find. Exploring the small village of Gandria via ferry added a touch of spontaneity to the day. Wandering through Gandria’s charming streets felt like stepping into another world, one where the town, built into the steep lakeside, appears to be accessible solely by boat.
I rounded out the experience with dinner Ticino-style, indulging in a delicious polenta with gorgonzola and a bread-based dessert. Before heading back to Milan, I made sure to buy some Swiss chocolate and Ricola as souvenirs.
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My third escape from the bustling city of Milan was just for a few hours. Pavia is just 20–25 minutes by train. This city is small yet full of charm. I started the day with some gelato—two of my favorites, stracciatella and mango, were just the ticket on a hot day! Afterward, I explored the city center, browsing through local shops and strolling to the iconic Ponte Coperto bridge. Sitting in the shade and feeling the breeze on the bridge was a nice break with a view. I finished the day with a casual aperitivo, sipping a cool drink and snacking on bite-sized treats before catching the train back to the city.
Exploring Lago di Maggiore
For my fourth and final day trip, I headed to Stresa, a beautiful town on Lago di Maggiore. From there, I hopped on a boat to Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Bella. These islands enchanted me with their waterfront restaurants, colorful streets, and breathtaking views. Dining on the islands would have been a fun highlight, but I arrived in Stresa hungry so by the time I saw the lakeside cafes and restaurants, I’d already eaten. Instead, when I returned to town, I opted for a lakeside aperitivo overlooking the water from one of Stresa's rooftops. Either way, the scenery is exceptional, and the day trip recharged me before heading back to Milan.
Final Thoughts
Each of these destinations offers something unique, so it depends on what kind of experience you are after. Whether tasting Ligurian pesto, admiring Swiss mountain views, wandering through Pavia’s historic streets, or exploring the magical islands of Lago di Maggiore, these day trips filled my heart with unforgettable memories. Make sure to pack light, stay hydrated, and embrace the joy of discovering what lies just beyond Milan.