As a foreigner (Norvegian) living in Italy the last 35 years I know both the expectations and needs of a tourist and the Italians and how they, no let me correct that, how we do things here. 🙂
Since we have several design apartments only 800 meters from Stazione Centrale (short-term and mid-term stays), I thought why not share with all of you my list of top day trips from stazione centrale to some of the most iconic places in northern Italy (and the world!). When you’ve explored Milan thoroughly there are so many things to do and see around here. The list could be almost infinite of course, there are so many beautiful places both in nature and countless historic towns, but here are my top 5 daytrips from Milan by train.
I will not go into depth about what to see because Claude or ChatGPT will to that for you in a few seconds better than I ever could, but I will give you little “insider” tips to help you enjoy Italy even more.
Let’s start with the nearest one:
Pavia – The least famous but “a hidden gem” in the middle of 80 thousand acres of rice paddies and it takes only 30-45 minutes by regional train, each way.
You can easily visit Pavia by foot here are the main attractions:
Duomo di Pavia – The third-largest dome in Italy, and Da Vinci himself helped design it.
Castello Visconteo – A 14th-century castle housing civic museums. Take a stroll in the garden and watch the dozens of bright green parakeets that live there.
Ponte Coperto – This iconic covered bridge over the Ticino River is the symbol of Pavia.
University of Pavia – One of Europe’s oldest universities (founded 1361). The baroque and neoclassical campus buildings are scattered throughout the town – beautiful architecture everywhere you turn.
Medieval towers – Pavia once had over 100 towers! Several still stand, giving the city a distinctive medieval skyline.
What to eat and drink: Pavia is the Italian capital of rice, so you must try risotto! Pair it with Oltrepò Pavese wines at any of the cozy trattorias around the centro storico.
If you have time, on your way back visit Certosa di Pavia (it has its own trainstop-8km from Pavia’s city center) A stunning Carthusian monastery. The marble facade is covered in incredibly detailed sculptures, with beautiful frescoed interiors.
Next up
Torino (Turin) -1 hour by high speed train each way, this elegant city (former royal capital) offers baroque squares, world-class museums, and some of Italy’s best chocolate and coffee.
Best train stations: Torino Porta Nuova (most central, easy walk to city center) or Torino Porta Susa (well-connected by metro)
Start Your Day the Turin Way:
Walk from Porta Nuova along Via Roma to Caffè al Bicerin – the original inventor of Bicerin, an 18th-century drink made with chocolate, espresso, and cream. Delicious!
Porta Palazzo Market – After your Bicerin, you can walk to Porta Palazzo where you’ll find Europe’s largest open-air market open from monday-saturday 7.00-14.00 it is crowded and busy and a real authentic experience. Watch out for pickpockets
Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio) – This is the world’s second-largest Egyptian collection AND the oldest Egyptian museum in the world. Even if you’re not usually a museum person, this one is a must.
Piazza San Carlo – One of Europe’s most elegant baroque squares.
Palazzo Reale- The Royal Palace The former residence of the House of Savoy. The opulent rooms and royal gardens show you why Turin was once Italy’s capital.
Mole Antonelliana – Turin’s iconic tower piercing the skyline. Take the panoramic lift to the top for sweeping views of the city and the Alps beyond. Inside, you’ll find the National Cinema Museum.
Via Po & Po River – A charming arcaded street leading all the way to the Po River. The riverside is peaceful and lovely for an afternoon walk.
Must-try dishes:
Tagliolini (Tajarin) al tartufo bianco d’Alba – thin egg pasta with white Alba truffles (in season)
Bagna cauda – warm anchovy and garlic dip with vegetables
Brasato al Barolo – beef braised in Barolo wine
Restaurant tips:
Osteria Nuova – Refined traditional Piemontese dishes (homemade pasta and hearty main courses, in a magnificent setting.
La Taverna Dei Mercanti – Classic traditional dishes and cozy atmosphere. Dinner only on some days, so check with mrs.google!
Turin is Italy’s chocolate capital. Before you leave, pick up some gianduiotti hazelnut chocolate that the “Torinesi’s” are proud of. You’ll find them in elegant chocolate shops throughout the city center.
LAKE COMO – Bellagio the “Pearl of Lake Como” known for its stunning location, steep stair-stepped streets, and beautiful gardens, 1 hour to Varenna by regional train each way + 20 minutes ferry ride
Bellagio sits on a promontory, where the Como and Lecco branches of the lake meet, with panoramic views over the lake and the Italian Alps.
Take the train from Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino:
I prefer soaking in the atmosphere over rushing between sights and a lazy lunch is a must!
This charming lakeside village has colorful houses and a relaxed vibe and while waiting for you ferry I suggest you stop in a pasticceria or a good quality coffee shop (again check with Mrs. Google she knows everything) for a cappuccino and brioche, the classic italian breakfast, before catching the ferry.
You may want to buy a day pass at the ticket office in Varenna – it covers unlimited trips between Varenna, Bellagio, and Menaggio. Much better value than single tickets if you want to explore!
Once arrived in Bellagio wander the cobbled alleys, peek into artisan shops, and find a gelato spot with lake views. The famous Villa Melzi gardens and the natural park of Villa Serbelloni are well worth a visit if you have time! <3
Villa Serbelloni itself is one of the most beautiful and luxurious hotels in the world, if you feel confident (unlike me…) have a drink at the bar and enjoy the magnificent luxury.
I chose lunch at Trattoria San Giacomo – Fresh fish and homemade pasta. They don’t take reservations, so arrive early! 🙂
Castello di Vezio – Back in Varenna if you feel energetic there is a wonderful hike up to this stunning, well-preserved castle. The panoramic lake views are magnificent.
Next is one of the most romantic cities in the world.. 🙂
VERONA
Romeo and Juliet’s city, Verona combines ancient Roman history with excellent food and wine and takes only 1 hour 15 minutes by express train each way.
Train station: Verona Porta Nuova station
To get to the City Center you have two easy options:
Walk (about 20 minutes) – It’s a pleasant stroll down a tree-lined avenue. You’ll enter through the ancient stone gates, I Portoni della Bra – the same way visitors have entered Verona for centuries.
Bus – Most buses leaving the station head toward the city center. Ask the driver or check with Mrs. Google to confirm! 😊
Start Your Day Like a Veronese:
Try a traditional Veronese breakfast that locals eat instead of the usual cappuccino and brioche, order il risino and a macchiatone. Il risino is a small sweet pastry filled with rice pudding mixed with pastry cream – it’s delicious! And the macchiatone is a mix between a caffè macchiato and a cappuccino.
What to See:
Arena di Verona – This ancient Roman amphitheater is Verona’s crown jewel. Arrive early to beat the crowds.
Juliet’s House & Balcony – Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s crowded. But it’s also iconic and you may want that photo. The courtyard below is free to visit.
Piazza delle Erbe – This historic market square is surrounded by cafes and beautiful frescoed buildings. Perfect for people-watching and a little shopping at the market booths.
Torre dei Lamberti – Climb this tower for the best views of Verona’s red rooftops and the surrounding hills.
Ponte Pietra & Roman Theater – A scenic riverside walk across this ancient stone bridge. The views are beautiful, especially in late afternoon light.
Piazzale Castel San Pietro – Great sunset viewpoint! Walk up (or take the funicular if you’re tired) for panoramic views over the city.
Lunch at Osteria da Ugo:
This is a hidden gem tucked in a tiny “vicolo” (alley) inside an ancient palazzo in Verona’s historic center. Homemade pasta and typical local dishes in a relaxed atmosphere with outstanding service. – This is NOT fast food. Plan to spend a couple of hours here if you want to dine properly.
Don’t miss trying the Valpolicella wines!
You might want to get the Verona Card (24h pass) – It includes:
Skip-the-line entry to Arena di Verona
Entry to museums and monuments
ATV public transport (urban lines within Verona)
Digital audio app with self-guided tour
Guided Walking Tour – I recommend booking a local guide to get the most interesting stories! A typical tour covers: Piazza Bra, Arena di Verona, Porta Borsari, Piazza delle Erbe, Piazza dei Signori, Basilica di Santa Anastasia, Ponte Pietra, Casa di Romeo, Arche Scaligere, and more. You’ll understand Verona’s layers of history much better with a knowledgeable local!
VENEZIA the most beautiful city in the world, it has no roads, just canals! and it takes 2h 30min with high speed train each way from Milano Centrale.
Venice in a day? Yes it’s possible. Take the first train in the morning and the last one back at night. Plan on lots of walking and boat rides.
I must admit this is a bit of a stretch, and also why would you stay only one day in this magical city? But if you are short on time it is doable. Plan well, book in advance. We leave at dawn. Let’s go!
Note: If you have a place to catch in Milan the following day and absolutely have to be back this is not the time to do it.. I had some friends from overseas who did just that and there was a trainstrike so they did not manage to get back to Milan in time..
All good anyhow, the aircompany helped them for free to change their tickets and came home safely with one more “thrilling” experience in their baggage.
Make sure you book the train ticket to Santa Lucia station (NOT Mestre) – Santa Lucia is right in Venice’s historic center. Mestre is on the mainland and you’ll need another train to reach Venice!
Getting Around Venice:
In Venice, you travel by water! I prefer using vaporettos, Venice’s public ferries, not the touristy gondola’s. These ferries connect the main islands and canals with numbered lines. Line 1 is slower but scenic, while Line 2 is faster along the Grand Canal.
Buy tickets at ticket offices, machines, or through the AVM app. You can get single-use tickets or multi-day passes (the day pass is great value if you’re exploring a lot). Don’t forget to validate your ticket at the turnstiles before boarding – just scan your card at each new journey. Listen for the announcements so you know when to get off!
What to See:
St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) – The basilica is stunning, the bell tower offers incredible views, and the Doge’s Palace and Ponte dei sospiri tell Venice’s powerful history. Arrive early to avoid the worst crowds.
Rialto Bridge & Market – Walk to this iconic bridge and explore the bustling local food market nearby. This is where Venetians actually shop – fresh fish, produce, and all the energy of daily life.
Grand Canal vaporetto ride – Take Line 1 for a scenic waterbus tour down the Grand Canal. It’s like a moving postcard of Venice’s most beautiful palaces.
Get lost in the streets – Wander the quieter neighborhoods like Dorsoduro or Cannaregio. The real Venice magic happens in these less-crowded alleyways and hidden squares.
Libreria Acqua Alta – This quirky bookstore has books stacked in gondolas and bathtubs to protect them from high water. It’s photogenic, charming, and totally unique.
Lunch like a local: Finding good food in Venice can be tricky – tourist traps are everywhere. We recommend Osteria alla Staffa (open 12:00-15:00). It’s well-frequented by locals, which is always a good sign!
Venice is known for its Cicchetti, their version of street food, tiny versions of local dishes served to accompany a glass of wine. You will find them in the traditional Bacari taverns , and there are even organized Bacari tours to do “degustazione” of Cicchetti and local wines.
Milano Centrale is a great gateway to visit northern Italy and all five of these iconic destinations are within 1-2.5 hours from your doorstep at our “Town Homes Milano” short term apartments. Come and stay for a few days! 🙂
Our Most Important Tip:
Plan a few essentials but leave some leeway for unexpected things along the way like making new friends, discovering hidden alleys, having a spritz for aperitivo or a slow lunch with good wine and great conversation.
A few tips to make Your Day Trip Smooth:
Book early: Get your train tickets 2-3 weeks ahead for the best prices
Start early: Catch a morning train to maximize your day (and beat the crowds!)
Book your return: Don’t leave it to chance – secure your return journey when you book
Wear comfortable shoes: Those cobblestones are beautiful but unforgiving!
Download offline maps: WiFi can be spotty in smaller towns
Remember lunch hours: Many restaurants close between 2.30-7pm, so plan accordingly
Talk to the Locals!
Don’t be shy – Italians are very sociable and love to chat. Maybe not in Venice (poverini, they’re worn out by too many tourists), but everywhere else yes. 🙂
Many italians speak English, especially the younger generation, and with the older ones a few Italian words goes a long way.
I warmly recommend saying Buongiorno (Good morning/day) when you walk into a shop, and Grazie mille (Thank you very much) is also a very useful.
Buona gita! (Have a great trip!)
And when you come back to your comfortable apartment near Milano Centrale, tag us on Instagram or Facebook. We’d love to see your photos and hear about your stay!
💙 My daughter Sara made a FREE Milan guide — full of hidden gems, local food, favorite aperitivo spots, art, and cozy places we love. Sign up for our newsletter and download the guide here.