Milan is amazing — the fashion, the nightlife, the food. But one of the city’s biggest perks is its location. Thanks to high-speed trains and regional connections, you can escape the urban buzz and find yourself by a lake, in the Alps, or in a medieval town in under two hours. If you’re studying abroad or just visiting, here are the best day trips from Milan you won’t want to miss.

1. Lake Como 

Travel time: ~1 hour by train from Milano Centrale to Como San Giovanni

Lake Como is the ultimate getaway from city life. You can stroll the charming streets of Como, ride the funicular up to Brunate for breathtaking views, or hop on a ferry to Bellagio or Varenna. Perfect for a chill day with friends, taking a dip in the lake in summer, or snapping postcard-worthy photos year-round.

You can only experience the magic of hopping on a ferry from one colorful lakeside village to another, with mountains rising dramatically in the background. Whether you’re dipping your toes in the water or watching the sunset from Brunate, it feels like stepping into a postcard.

Help tip: Buy a regional train ticket (around €5 one way) and a ferry pass to explore multiple towns.

2. Bergamo 

Travel time: ~50 minutes by train from Milano Centrale

Often overlooked, Bergamo is a hidden gem. The historic Città Alta (Upper Town) is full of cobbled streets, old churches, and piazzas with unbeatable views. The funicular ride alone is worth it.

Nowhere else can you ride a funicular straight into a perfectly preserved medieval town perched above the modern city. Walking along the Venetian walls, you get sweeping views that remind you why this place is UNESCO-listed.

Help Tip: Aperitivo here is cheaper than in Milan — great place to save money while enjoying the same vibes.

3. Verona 

Travel time: ~1h 15m by train

Known as the setting of Romeo and Juliet, Verona is a romantic and lively city with a stunning Roman amphitheater that still hosts concerts. Stroll along the Adige River, visit Juliet’s balcony, and enjoy some of the best pasta you’ll have in Italy.

This is the only place where you can step inside a Roman arena still used for concerts and operas today. Pair that with Juliet’s balcony and cobbled piazzas, and Verona feels like a mix of living history and timeless romance

Help tip: Regional trains are cheaper than the fast ones — the journey is a bit longer, but your wallet will thank you.

4. Lake Garda 

Travel time: ~1h 30m by train to Desenzano del Garda

Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake, with both relaxing beaches and adventure sports. You can rent a bike, go windsurfing, or just sunbathe by the water. The lakeside towns feel like a summer holiday postcard.

This is the only lake where you can explore a medieval castle that rises straight out of the water and then relax in natural hot springs nearby. Between sailing, swimming, and charming towns, Garda feels like three trips in one.

Help tip: Pack snacks and a picnic — restaurants on the lake can be pricey.

5. Turin 

Travel time: ~1h by high-speed train

Turin is elegant, full of piazzas and arcades, and famous for its chocolate (don’t leave without trying gianduja). It also has incredible museums like the Egyptian Museum and the Cinema Museum inside the Mole Antonelliana.

Only in Turin can you sip a creamy bicerin, the city’s iconic chocolate and coffee drink, in a café that’s been serving it for centuries. Add in grand boulevards and baroque palaces, and you’ll see why it feels so elegant compared to Milan’s rush.

Help tip: Many museums have student discounts or free entry on the first Sunday of the month.

6. Cinque Terre 

Travel time: ~2h 30m by train to Monterosso (possible in a day, better with an early start)

If you’re up for a longer adventure, Cinque Terre is worth it. These five colorful villages perched on cliffs are one of the most famous sights in Italy. You can hike between towns, relax on the beach, or hop on the regional train that connects them.

Only here can you hike from village to village along dramatic cliffside trails, with the Ligurian Sea sparkling beside you the whole way. The reward? A plate of fresh seafood or pesto pasta in one of the colorful harbors.

Help tip: Wear good shoes — the trails can be steep, and flip-flops won’t survive.

Final Thoughts

Living or studying in Milan means you have Italy (and beyond) at your fingertips. Whether you’re in the mood for lakeside relaxation, mountain air, or small-town charm, there’s a day trip waiting for you. So pack a small bag, grab your student discount ticket, and let Milan be your gateway to adventure.

And if you’re still looking for a place to stay in Milan, Click Here to find student rooms in the best neighborhoods of the city.