Cities close to Milan
Are you planning a trip to Milan? Well, pack for a two-week trip to this city, as there’s a lot to explore. Milan, the shopaholic’s paradise, is more than just a fashion hub. As Italy’s shopping and fashion capital, it hosts the prestigious Milan Fashion Week, a global platform for renowned designers. But what sets Milan apart is not just the high-end brands but also its rich history and art scene, making it a must-visit for all types of travelers.
Now, Milan is much more than a fashion hub. It’s a place for history and art lovers. Duomo, Sforza Castle, and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II are some notable historical sights that draw in tourists. Milan is also one of the most-visited metropolitan cities in Italy because of its extensive transport system, which connects many fascinating cities through the metro, tram, and bus lines.
If you are in Milan or planning a trip to this Italian treasure, we have a list of the cities you shouldn’t miss out on. These places will definitely make your trip to Milan super memorable. Let’s take a look.
Bellagio
Filled with fascinating views, lush green gardens, gorgeous streets, and colorful houses, Bellagio is famous for its gardens and villas. It offers everything a tourist wants in a serene location.
As you reach Bellagio, you will want to explore the Villas first. Villa Serbelloni is a majestic villa located right at the lake. A stroll through the Gardens of Villa Merzi is another exciting tourist activity.
If you could spare a few hours, visit this magnificent villa, which is filled with history and serenity. This 18th-century villa is only a 10-minute walk from the city center. It remains open for visitors from March to October. It’s basically a vast botanical garden with some stunning flora species. If you are tired from all the exploring in Milan, head to Bellagio’s two of the best relaxing spots — Punta Spartivento and Pescallo.
Boat tours are famous here. So, don’t forget to book one after you are done with the gardens and villas. Lakeside restaurants are great for people who want a beautiful view alongside their favorite dishes. You must try fresh lake fish and handmade pasta here.
Gromo
Located 90 kilometers from Milan, reaching this historical town is easy. You can catch a train at Milano Centrale and reach the destination within 2-3 hours. Catch a car if you want to reach Gromo within 90 minutes. What’s unique about Gromo is its history.
The moment you arrive, you will see a place full of handicraft shops, cobblestone streets, and stone houses—all of which give you a glimpse of the medieval period. The scenery is lovely. Bring your camera to capture the beauty of the Seriana Valley.
Gromo is a town where you can unwind on weekends. Get some fresh air and admire the beauty of this historical town. If you have extra time, visit the castle and a local museum to see ancient artifacts. The village is also known for being a manufacturing center for weapons and armor in the past. If you want to learn about ancient craftsmanship, castles, and knights, then a trip to Gromo should go into your must-visit-places-near-Milan list.
Garda
Do you want a quick escape from Milan? Garda is a picturesque getaway and a perfect tourist destination for nature lovers. To reach Lake Garda, you can take the train from Milano Centrale to the nearest town, i.e., Desenzano del Garda, and catch a taxi to reach your destination.
The beauty of the place lies in its lake and the lakeside restaurants, which offer a stunning view of the lush green surroundings and delicious Italian cuisine.
You will love the range of water sports, hiking trails, and outdoor activities available for tourists in this region. And if you are not an adventure junkie, there’s always an option to explore the nearby towns, such as Malcesine, and spend a peaceful evening.
Bergamo
Bergamo is a charming city divided into two parts. The lower town, or the area’s financial center, is where tourists land, and the upper town is where the magic unfolds. The Citta Alta, or the upper town, will take you back to the 16th century through the Venetian Walls. It’s a must-visit for all tourists of Milan, as these give you a breathtaking view of the town.
Bergamo is for adventure lovers. If you wish to try hiking in Milan, there couldn’t be a better place than this historical city. Surrounded by hills, Bergamo has many hiking spots that offer a panoramic view of the city. The upper town has a basilica, a great place for tourists interested in exploring Roman architecture.
Piazza Vecchia is another beautiful tourist spot that holds great historical significance. Each corner of the square tells a story, which you will love to explore while having your evening coffee here. Simply take a walk around the square or sit on the steps, admiring the beauty of the place. You’ll love every bit of it. You can book a walking tour of the upper town to learn more about the history of Bergamo.
Foodies, you are in for a treat, too. Polenta and Casoncelli are the mains here, but there are plenty of food choices you can explore. Try Taleggio Cheese and Scarpinocc di Parre to give a treat to your taste buds.
Varenna
Explore the Italian culture and the natural beauty of the country in Varenna. It’s just an hour’s ride from Milan by train and 15-20 minutes away from Bellagio (if you take a ferry). Start your trip to this scenic location with a visit to the Villa Monastero.
The villa has stunning gardens built in the 19th century. The villa itself is 800 years old. Varenna Waterfront is for tourists who want to try boating. Take a walk around the cobbled-stone streets and visit the Church of San Giorgio. You are going to love the romantic atmosphere in town.
If you are visiting Milan with your partner, do not miss Varenna. Its beautiful ambiance, colorful buildings, lake views, and fancy cafes make it the top tourist attraction in Italy. A 1.5-hour metro ride from Milano Centrale will take you to this gorgeous town.
Milan is the gateway to many enchanting towns, known for their historical significance, natural beauty, modern cafes, lakes, and mesmerizing views. Have a great time exploring Milan and the surrounding cities!
A day trip to Strasbourg from Paris unveils a crossroads of cultures, languages, and rich history. Whether wandering through architectural marvels, savoring culinary delights, or soaking in its multicultural ambiance, Strasbourg promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Europe.
Sirmione
Sirmione is the most romantic tourist destination in Italy. It’s also an excellent spot for nature lovers. Surrounded by Lake Garda, olive trees, and majestic mountains, your day in Sirmione will be full of relaxation and exploration.
History lovers? The place has something unique for you, too. It’s home to the Grand Roman Villa, built in the 1st century AD, and Scaliger Castle, which has towers, battlements, and defensive walls. Take the stairs to reach the top of the castle and witness the enchanting view of Lake Garda.
Another relaxing activity you can try here is a health and wellness spa. The warm water feels perfect, especially when combined with the view of the lake. Indulge in this rejuvenating experience and pamper yourself. Try Terme Virgilio for thermal baths. Aquaria Thermal Spa is another excellent spot for a relaxing evening.