Looking for the best day trips from Milan in winter? You’ve come to the right place!
Lombardy‘s capital has much to offer travelers in the colder season, including fascinating surrounding cities, towns, lakes, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, so let’s get started with these amazing day trips!
*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. I share my personal experience and cannot guarantee yours.
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How to Take Day Trips From Milan in Winter
Some destinations can be visited with a guided tour, but most of the places on this list are easily reachable by train from Milano Centrale, one of the main train stations in Italy, or from the stations of Milano Cadorna and Milano Porta Garibaldi.
If you don’t want to travel indepedently, here are some highly-rated day tours from Milan (available in winter):
1. Lake Como day tour (one of the most popular choices)
2. Lake Garda and Verona day tour (with a visit to Sirmione, The Pearl of Lake Garda)
3. St. Moritz (Switzerland) day tour with a ride on the Bernina Express train
4. Piedmont region day trip with wine tasting and a UNESCO castle
If you do want to take the train without a guide, be sure to book your ticket in advance to save time (and reserve your seat, depending on the train and ticket you’re choosing). I personally love using Omio for that as it compares bus and train prices in one place.
Still haven’t booked your hotel? See these highly-rated accommodations in Milan:
1. Cà Bèla – Porta Romana (where I stayed)
2. Porta 92 Romana (only 2 Metro stops away from the Duomo)
3. Castello Guest House Milano (right near the Sforza Castle)
Places to Visit Near Milan in Winter (+Map)
See the map here.
Lake Como, Lombardy
By Megan from Megan & Aram
Situated just an hour’s train ride from Milan, a day trip to Lake Como in the winter offers stunning scenery and a breath of fresh air without the crowds of summer.
From the end of November to early January, check out Como’s (the town) lovely traditional Christmas market in Piazza Cavour, go ice skating, and enjoy the brilliantly lit Christmas tree in Piazza Duomo.
Don’t miss the “Citta dei Balocchi,” a fun festival that’s been running for the past thirty years, offering tons of events, markets, decorations, and festive activities across the towns of Como and Cernobbio.
If you’re keen to be outdoors, don’t miss walking the Lake Como Greenway, a 6-mile (10km) trail that passes through some of the lakeside villages and monuments, offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding snow-covered landscape.
Another option is to take a private boat tour, which allows you to get out on the water as well as visit several of the villages. If you’re into skiing, head up to Piani di Bobbio for some amazing ski trails.
Lastly, warm up with a traditional meal from the area, such as pizzoccheri, buckwheat pasta, or missoltino, a sun-dried fish.
Book your train ticket from Milan to Como in advance or opt for a guided Lake Como day tour!
Verona, Veneto
By Martina & Jürgen from PlacesofJuma
A wonderful recommendation for a city to visit near Milan in winter is Verona. It is truly easy to fall in love with and delights with historical charm and a captivating atmosphere.
There are so many amazing things to do in Verona. This Italian city, known for its Shakespearean heritage as the setting for Romeo and Juliet, unleashes a unique romantic charm during the winter months.
At this time, there are slightly fewer tourists than usual, and you get to see the old town at its best. Remember to pack warm clothes and comfortable shoes for your exploration in wintertime.
As you stroll through the cobblestone streets adorned with twinkling lights, you’ll discover many layers of history in the city’s well-preserved architecture.
Verona’s ancient Roman amphitheater, the Arena, is a testament to the past and offers a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage. It is decorated every year for Christmas, and the giant poinsettia conjures up a unique ambiance.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the picturesque Piazza delle Erbe, where a lively market takes place even in winter. Be sure to visit the House of Juliet, a pilgrimage site for romantics, with the iconic balcony where Juliet is said to have serenaded.
Getting to Verona from Milan is a breeze, as frequent train services connect the two cities in just 1:15 hours. In addition, guided tours are also available.
Purchase your train ticket from Milan to Verona in advance or book a guided Verona & Lake Garda day tour!
LAKE GARDA, LOMBARDY & VENETO
By Alice from Adventures of Alice
Lake Garda is a beautiful destination in Italy to visit all year round, but it’s exceptionally special in the winter months.
During this time of year, Northern Italy has a surprisingly warm (metaphorically) atmosphere, with entertaining Christmas markets, an abundance of hot chocolate and mulled wine, and cozy vibes in most hotels, apartments, and restaurants.
Winter is a great time to visit Lake Garda for fairs and festivities. The Christmas season makes it truly special, with events taking over the small towns.
Particularly in Sirmione, you can see the gorgeous Scaligero Castle lit up with twinkling fairy lights and skate on the annual ice rink.
If you’re traveling to the Italian lakes as a family, don’t forget to take a trip to Gardaland, where you’ll find plenty of rides and attractions dressed up in their Christmas gear.
The food here also takes on a festive twist in the winter months, and you’ll find plenty of hot chocolate and warm soups to keep you toasty.
Lastly, Lake Garda in winter is also the perfect spot to hit the slopes. The nearby Monte Baldo will allow you to test your skiing or snowboarding abilities.
There’s also a slope for beginners, so you don’t need to be an expert to try your hand at winter sports.
Purchase your train ticket from Milan to Lake Garda in advance or book a guided Verona & Lake Garda day tour!
Tirano, Lombardy
By Kenny from Knycx Journeying
Italy is one of the most famous countries to visit because of its history, classical art, food and fashion. In fact, the country also has breathtaking natural sceneries, like in north Lombardy adjacent to the Alps, bordering Switzerland.
Tirano is a small town in Valtallina, about 166 kilometers away from central Milan; it takes about 3 hours to get there from Milan, but it’s totally worth visiting.
Tirano is home to many impressive attractions and outdoor experiences for worldwide tourists.
In winter, Tirano is located close to a number of ski resorts in the Alps. The old town is also very easy to explore on foot. Check out the architecture on the cobbled road and tranquil river, and the Catholic shine of the Madonna di Tirano is also a highlight in the area.
The train ride from Milan to Tirano itself is a scenic journey because the train runs along the famous Lake Como, a well-known resort area at the foothills of the Alps.
Tirano is also famous for being the starting and arrival point of the popular scenic train Bernina Express, operating all year round and connecting with Chur in Switzerland.
Winter is a wonderful time to kick start or complete the train journey because passengers will be witnessing how the train makes its way through the steep and rugged terrain, passing over 196 bridges and 55 tunnels in the snow.
Purchase your train ticket from Milan to Tirano in advance or book a guided tour to Tirano and St. Moritz (Switzerland) with a ride on the Bernina Express train!
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
By Martha from May Cause Wanderlust
Bologna makes a great day trip from Milan because it’s easy to get to (a direct train takes just over an hour) but quite different. While Milan is a big, smart, fashionable city, Bologna is smaller, older, and arguably more charming.
You could visit Bologna year-round, but winter is a great time to go because it’s the kind of place that you’ll want to explore by foot, which is not always that pleasant to do in the baking heat.
For example, one of the best things to do in Bologna is to walk the Portico of San Luca, the world’s longest portico. It’s nearly 4km of handsome covered walkway, of which half is unrelenting uphill steps. You wouldn’t want to do that on a hot Italian day!
And that isn’t the only attractive portico in Bologna: the city center is full of these arched walkways: some simple, some ornate, and all painted in a harmonious palette of reds and yellows.
Whilst Bologna’s architecture is captivating, another big draw is the food. Bologna is in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, the region from which originates Parma ham, Parmigiano Reggiano, and Aceto Balsamico di Modena.
Taking a food tour is highly recommended: Delicious Bologna is a good option that includes food education and tastings.
And winter is the perfect time to try a Bolognese specialty. No, not Spaghetti Bolognese! Tortellini in broth is actually the quintessential pasta dish of Bologna.
Get your train ticket from Milan to Bologna in advance and book this highly-rated food tour!
Venice, Veneto
By Lavina from Continent Hop
Venice is a fantastic travel option for a day trip from Milan, even if you’re only planning a 2-day Milan itinerary. The two cities are just two and a half hours away, and you can take direct trains from Milan’s central train stations.
You can stroll across the iconic City of Bridges on foot or use the public Vaporetto system or private water taxis. The experience is truly unique.
Winter in Venice is romantic, as the city is less crowded and cheaper. The weather is a bit cold, but you won’t mind it once the city mesmerizes you.
Teatro La Fenice is a must-visit and one of the most iconic opera houses in Italy. It’s been around for about three hundred years! An opera performance on a cold winter evening is the perfect way to stay warm.
Attend the Carnevale Di Venezia if you are visiting in February. This carnival is full of entertainment, including masks, fancy balls, and period costumes. It takes place all across the city for two weeks in February.
Visit the Riatro Bridge and Doge’s Palace, which are immensely beautiful destinations, and head to Piazza San Marco, one of the most happening places in Venice. You can also take a city tour.
A special attraction in winter is the ‘Natale di Vetro’ (Christmas of Glass) on Murano Island, where you can witness a glass Christmas tree and other stunning glass decorations.
The Christmas markets of Venice are also worth visiting. You can shop for various handmade objects, glass ornaments, and lace decorations.
End your day trip while sipping a delicious cup of Venetian hot chocolate.
Book your train ticket from Milan to Venice!
Lugano, Switzerland
By Nicola from All About RosaLilla
Just an hour’s drive from Milan, Lugano in Switzerland is a stunning destination for a day trip to break up a colder month in the city.
Nestled on the northern shore of Lake Lugano, this tranquil area is sure to enchant anyone with its picturesque mountain peaks and cobblestoned streets.
Imagine wandering through the old-world charm of the city center, while the snow-covered Alps loom in the background. You could explore the area’s colorful Christmas markets and one-of-a-kind boutiques, or take in its rustic beauty with a stroll along the lakefront.
With plenty to do and see while enjoying the gorgeous winter weather, one day in Lugano is a perfect getaway for anyone looking for the ultimate Swiss winter experience.
Lugano at Christmas is what you would expect from a traditional Swiss city. They have a beautifully impressive Christmas tree in the main piazza and about 50 picturesque chalets lined up along the main squares and pedestrian streets.
The biggest Christmas celebrations are held at Piazza della Riforma, Piazza Manzoni, and Via Nassa, all of which are lined with market stalls selling one-of-a-kind handmade presents. You can discover a ton of ornaments, fluffy mittens, hats, and scarves that you can’t resist buying to keep you warm.
Local favorites, including bratwurst, pretzels, sausages, and potatoes au gratin, are available at several kiosks. The majority of stands will serve some mulled wine. The weather is mild at this time of year, making Lugano the perfect winter getaway.
You can also book train tickets from Milan to Lugano (only an hour and 18 minutes away)!
Florence, Tuscany
By Mal of Raw Mal Roams
Tucked in the heart of Tuscany in central Italy, a living testament to the Renaissance era, Florence is a fantastic city to visit during the winter months, and not just for art enthusiasts.
Did you know that Florence was shortly the capital of Italy before Rome? Florence was also the birthplace of the iconic poet Dante and home to artists such as Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Brunelleschi.
Today, Florence is abundant in monuments and UNESCO treasures and a real treat for any traveler who can appreciate such a rich heritage.
Why visit in winter? Well, you’ll find fewer tourists, much more affordable accommodation rates, and if you visit in December – festive lights and local Christmas markets that add a unique charm to the city.
While you’re there, visit the stunning Uffizi Gallery, snap a photo at the picturesque Ponte Vecchio, and climb to the top of the awe-inspiring Duomo. If you’re a foodie, here are some of the best Florence food tours.
Getting to Florence is super easy – take one of the high-speed trains from Milan Central Station. The trip takes 1.5 to 2 hours, and you’ll get off in the city center at Florence Santa Maria Novella Station.
Stay at MyForte Relais de Charme, one of the best Florence hotels with an indoor pool and a fantastic spa, where you can pumper up after a day of sightseeing.
Get your train ticket from Milan to Florence in advance and book your Duomo ticket!
Get inspired by this Rome-Florence-Venice itinerary!
Parma, Emilia-Romagna
By Kate from Our Escape Clause
As the second-biggest city in Emilia-Romagna, visiting Parma offers much of the same appeal as its neighbor Bologna, though with a fraction of the crowds (something that is even more true in winter – this is an Italian city where you’ll have plenty of space to stretch out!).
The best things to do in Parma include visiting the remarkable 12th-century Duomo and Baptistery, exploring the impressive (all-wooden) Teatro Farnese, and checking out Teatro Regio, the city’s beautiful opera house.
Even more important than sightseeing in the historic center is that you take time when visiting Parma to eat!
As the origin of both Parmigiano-Reggiano and prosciutto di Parma, to say that Parma has delicious food is a bit of an understatement, and the region’s hearty meat dishes and cozy plates of pasta (including the popular pumpkin-stuffed Tortelli) shine in the cooler months.
One of the most popular things to do in Parma is to book a tour of a Parmigiano-Reggiano factory and a prosciutto di Parma factory (complete with tastings, of course) – the experience is unforgettable!
Thirteen direct trains run between Milan and Parma each day, and depending on the route you book, it takes an average of 1-2 hours to travel between the two cities.
Book your train ticket from Milan to Parma in advance!
Turin, Piedmont
Being the first capital of the unified Kingdom of Italy and the main seat of the House of Savoy, Turin is a royal city you don’t want to miss.
Located only an hour from Milan, it’s home to the Savoy family’s UNESCO-listed royal residences, a museum powerhouse, the birthplace of solid chocolate and the aperitivo tradition, and a fantastic place to immerse yourself in hearty Piedmontese food, especially in winter.
Some of the best places to visit in Turin include the Royal Palace, Palazzo Madama, Villa della Regina, the Egyptian Museum, and the National Museum of Cinema (housed in the iconic Mole Antonelliana building).
If it’s not too cold, you can also take a stroll through Valentino Park, home to the beautiful Medieval Village and Castello del Valentino.
If you’re visiting Turin in December, you can enjoy Christmas events, unique light installations, decorated shops, and maybe even some snow.
Winter is also the perfect season to devour local risotto and pasta dishes (like risotto al Barolo and agnolotti) and head to Turin’s historic cafes to savor a cup of Bicerin, a local hot drink made from coffee, chocolate, and milk.
Purchase your train ticket from Milan to Turin in advance and book this highly-rated Turin walking tour!
Read more about Turin:
- Reasons to visit Turin
- Turin chocolate guide
- Hidden gems in Turin
- Where to stay in Turin
- Turin travel tips
- Long weekend in Turin
- Aosta Valley road trip from Turin
- Places to visit in Piedmont
Bergamo, Lombardy
By Maria & Katerina of It’s All Trip To Me
Picturesque Bergamo in Northern Italy is one of the best places to visit on a day trip from Milan in December.
The fourth-largest city in Lombardy, Bergamo is amazing any time of the year but particularly enchanting around the Christmas holidays when the medieval town sparkles with festive cheer.
Bergamo is split between the Upper and the Lower Town. The Upper Town is the old part of Bergamo, built in the heart of gorgeous rolling hills and encircled by dramatic UNESCO-listed walls. The Lower Town is the modern part of the city.
If you’re visiting Bergamo on a day trip, you’ll most probably want to spend your time in the Upper Town as this is the historic part of the city and where all the magic happens.
While in the Upper Town of Bergamo, you’ll be taken aback by the charm of Piazza Vecchia, the Old Square, and the impressive Duomo that’s only a few steps away.
Another thing not to miss in Bergamo is a ride on the city’s funicular that has been around since 1887.
The best way to get from Milan to Bergamo is by train. From Milan’s train station, the journey to Bergamo takes less than an hour.
Purchase your train ticket from Milan to Bergamo in advance!
Modena, Emilia-Romagna
By Margherita from The Crowded Planet
Modena is a wonderful day trip from Milan, especially for food enthusiasts.
This medium-sized city in Emilia-Romagna is the birthplace of balsamic vinegar, and you can also visit parmigiano factories, go wine tasting, and explore one of the most beautiful covered markets in Italy.
Winter is the best time to enjoy local food, which can be a bit heavy in the warm season with lots of pasta and meat-based dishes. There are plenty of restaurants offering traditional cuisine at far more affordable prices.
Two recommendations are Da Ermete, a lunch-only place with delicious fresh pasta, and Lo Stallo del Pomodoro, housed in a historic building and offering traditional dishes with a creative twist.
And if you’re not into food? There are many more things to do in Modena – it’s where Ferrari comes from, so you can visit two Ferrari museums and drive a supercar on a race track.
Alternatively, there’s a stunning UNESCO-listed cathedral, interesting museums, and the home of Pavarotti, one of the greatest opera singers of all time.
Getting to Modena from Milan is super easy by train. There are hourly departures, and travel time is between 1 hour and 20 to 2 hours, depending on whether you opt for a fast Frecciarossa or a slow Regionale train.
Get your train ticket from Milan to Modena in advance!
Genoa, Liguria
By Soline from On the Road Diary
Located on the Italian Riviera coastline, Genoa’s warm Mediterranean climate and mild winters make it an ideal destination for a winter day trip.
Not only is there plenty to see and do during the colder months, but you’ll also enjoy some of the best cuisine and nightlife Italy has to offer.
It is easily reachable from Milan on a one-day trip. You can either take a direct train between the two cities that lasts 1 hour and a half or drive 2 hours.
Unlike Cinque Terre, which is touristy all year round, Genoa’s streets won’t be too busy in winter. You will be able to enjoy its history and culture without the crowds.
You can walk around the magnificent Old Town district with its narrow alleyways and medieval buildings to the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza De Ferrari.
Then, head towards Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, D’Albertis Castle, and the Old Port of Genoa. However, the best way to visit Genoa is to get lost in its many alleys!
Get your train ticket from Milan to Genoa in advance!
Ascona, Switzerland
By Zoe from Together In Switzerland
For a Milan day trip destination in winter, consider your next trip to the Ticino canton of Switzerland, specifically Ascona. Located South of the Alps, Ascona is next to Lake Maggiore, with the most picturesque views of the local mountains.
Ascona is reachable by train from Milan, such as with the RE80 or EC train into Switzerland, and then change to a local train or public bus. Alternatively, driving from Milan to Ascona takes only 1 hour 40 minutes without traffic.
During winter in Ticino, Ascona is very cozy, with local restaurants providing heaters and blankets, as well as sparkling lights hung up through the trees.
Find a restaurant along the promenade for the best lake views in winter. For a specific restaurant tip, check Piazza Ascona!
Don’t expect much snow in Ascona during winter, as it can be rather sunny with its Mediterranean charm.
However, there are local mountains with hiking and snow sledding options, most topped with a sprinkle of snow from mid-December onwards. For example, Cimetta is a great place to ski.
Alternatively, head up the Locarno chairlifts for a warm bombardino or gluhwein to drink!
For those wanting to relax, visit a local spa, such as the Termali Spa. They have some amazing massage and relaxation packages, where you can also book a private room with a balcony, hot tub, and sauna access.
Get your train ticket from Milan to Locarno (from where you can take a short bus ride to Ascona) in advance!
Crespi D’Adda, Lombardy
By Michael from Time Travel Turtle
If you’re looking for small towns to visit near Milan in winter, this is a unique one. In the 19th century, most European companies weren’t thinking about things like employee welfare, which is why Crespi d’Adda was so significant at the time.
It was founded in 1875 by the Crespi family to provide accommodation for its factory workers and along with houses, they created a community with things like a school, theatre, and church.
It was the first company town in Italy, which provided a blueprint of enlightenment for a new trend across the continent.
Although the factory is now closed, the town remains and has been listed as a World Heritage Site.
Visiting today gives you the opportunity to see how it all came together, from the cottages and gardens to the looming chimney of the cotton mill.
There are no official opening hours or entrance fees, but you can book a guided tour.
It’s relatively easy to visit Crespi d’Adda from Milan. The drive is about 40 minutes, or there are bus routes that will drop you about 20 minutes’ walk from the site, the whole journey taking about 1.5 hours each way.
In winter, the snow creates a particularly beautiful landscape in the town and the surrounding forest, while the local church holds special services.
Varese, Lombardy
By Lisa from Travel Connect Experience
Among the most beautiful winter scenery in Lombardy is that surrounding the city of Varese.
By train, you will reach Varese from Milan in about an hour. At the top of the experiences this northern Italian city offers are those devoted to sampling the local cuisine.
The most popular dishes Varese offers are typical winter dishes, such as polenta e bruscitt, a hearty dish based on cornmeal, beef, and butter. Those who do not eat meat can delight in risotto with pumpkin or risotto with perch.
Another one of the best things to do in Varese in winter is to enjoy the typical local hot drink, the “buosino”.
This is a coffee to which hot chocolate, foamed milk, and chocolate chips are added. The buosino is usually served with the local dessert, “Dolce Varese,” a cake made from cornmeal.
After filling your tummy, spend some time admiring the art in the enclosed places. Varese’s iconic landmark, namely the Palazzo Estense with its gardens, houses the Civic Archaeological Museum.
Instead, the spectacular Villa Panza houses, in its luxurious interiors, about 100 works of contemporary art.
Book your train ticket from Milan to Varese in advance!
Is Milan Worth Visiting in Winter?
Milan is a wonderful Italian winter destination all on its own, thanks to a variety of cozy Christmas markets, decorated streets and stores, and an overall inviting atmosphere.
But as you can see, it’s also worth traveling to Milan in winter to see another side of all of these beloved cities and towns.
You’ll be only a short train ride away from immersing yourself in the wintertime magic of northern Italy and Switzerland.
Other Milan and Italy Travel Guides
Read more about Milan:
- 4 days in Milan
- Hidden gems in Milan
- Things to do on a rainy day in Milan, one of the best winter breaks in Europe
- Milan or Turin
- Road trips from Milan
More Italy guides:
- Things to do in Vicenza
- Hidden gems in northern Italy
- Best places to visit in northern Italy in October
- Best Italian road trips
- Piazzas in Italy
- Gifts for Italy lovers
- Romantic novels set in Italy
- Italy travel quotes
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