tours from venice to milan

Venice to Milan – A Cool Day Trip in Italy (With Travel Tips and Sights to See)

By Author Rossi Thomson

Posted on Last updated: 5th September 2022

Categories Day Trips in Italy , Lombardy , Veneto

A day trip from Venice to Milan in Italy is entirely possible, very enjoyable, and a rather cool thing to do.

Milan is one of the world’s fashion capitals, the wealthiest city in italy, and a destination that anyone with an interest in art, history, shopping, and hip city living will find of interest..

Dotted with worldwide known sights, with a rich artistic heritage, and streets lined up with shops selling Italian fashion brands, Milan offers a great number of things to see, do, and enjoy. Several of them can be covered in a day.

High-speed and fast regional trains connect many of Italy’s cities to Milan all throughout the day. This applies in full force to Venice – the capital of the Northern Italian region of Veneto and one of the most famous tourist destinations in Italy. Travel times from Venice to Milan start from 2 hours and 27 minutes one way.

So, a day trip from the heart of the Venetian Lagoon to the sprawling urban centre of Milan requires a bit of prior organisation and sticking to strict departure times. Yet, it is entirely possible and it will give you the opportunity to see two of the greatest cities in Italy and the world in the span of the same Italian holiday. Don’t miss the chance!

To make it easy for you, in this blog post, I have collated all the details to make planning a day trip from Venice to Milan a success. From first-hand tried and tested information on how to travel between these two Italian cities to a shortlist of the major sights to see in Milan in a day, everything’s covered. 

During my six years of living in Italy, I travelled to Milan and Venice dozens of times. Each time, it was so worth it and it opened yet another horizon in front of me in terms of Italian history, culture, food, and art.

Now, I would like to share my tips with you to help you have a great experience, too. Logically organised in easy chunks, below you will find the information that you need to enjoy Milan on a great day trip from Venice in Italy.

Have a look!  

Venice to Milan – A Cool Day Trip in Italy (With Travel Tips and Sights to See)

Where is milan, italy.

Milan is the capital of the Northern Italian region of Lombardy . The city is in the Lombardian plains and a stone’s throw away from Italy’s most famous lake – Lago di Como .

Venice itself is the capital of the Northern Italian region of Veneto . Famously, the historic centre of the city is built on 118 small islands grouped together in the heart of the Venetian Lagoon. A long bridge links Venice to the mainland.

The distance between Venice and Milan is between 260 km and 270 km on average depending on your starting point in Venice and your point of arrival in Milan.

Venice is connected to Milan by road and railway. Travel between them is straightforward and with a bit of planning, it doesn’t have to cost the earth.

A well-maintained toll motorway stretches across Northern Italy. Known as Autostrada 4 (and also called Serenissima), Venice and Milan are two of the major Italian cities connected by it. If you choose to travel by car , this motorway is the quickest way to reach Milan. It is a very busy road with a constant flow of traffic, especially during rush hour and national holidays.

An easier way to travel from Venice to Milan is by train . High-speed and fast regional trains connect Venice to Milan all throughout the day. Milan has several train stations. Milano Centrale is the main one of them. This is also Europe’s largest train station by volume of traffic. Each year it serves 120 million passengers. Each day, about 500 trains arrive and depart from it.

Besides Venice, Milan is also easy to reach from a number of large Italian cities. For example, Verona , Bologna , Turin, Florence, and Naples in addition to the Italian capital Rome. Milan also enjoys excellent railway connections to several important European cities in Austria, Switzerland, Germany, and France.

Why Visit Milan from Venice?

If you are spending a few days in Venice and have already visited the islands in the Venetian Lagoon, vibrant Padua , the City of Love Verona , Lake Garda , and other nearby gems, you may want to also take a day trip to Milan. Or you may be specifically interested in Milan on account of a particular landmark in this Northern Italian city, a specific event held there, or Milan’s urban architecture and luxury shopping opportunities .

After all, Milan has a long list of must-see sights , many festivals and city-wide events, and a rich stable of boutiques that can make the heart of anyone with an interest in fashion, jewellery, and shopping aflutter with delight. It is also in Milan that you can see such worldwide famous masterpieces as Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper and visit excellent museums and art galleries like the Pinacoteca di Brera . Milan’s Duomo with its lace-like facade is one of the most iconic buildings in Europe and many travellers pin it to their bucket lists for Italy.

Milan has a very modern and hip look to it. Yet, it has a centuries-old history, too. Many landmarks here can transport you back to the time when Milan was one of the most powerful players on the stage of the Italian city-states.

All in all, there are many reasons to visit Milan on a day trip from Venice. Even if you decide to travel there without a particular reason, you can spend a wonderful day in the Lombardian capital seeing a completely different side to Italy than Venice has to offer.

In a nutshell, a trip from Venice to Milan can be a cool adventure to create memories that last a lifetime.

How to Travel from Venice to Milan?

There are two main convenient ways to travel for a day trip from Venice to Milan – by train and by car . Here they are in further details:

Venice to Milan by Train – train times are manageable if you take the direct high-speed train. If you opt for the fast regional train, the travel time will increase by an hour and you will need to change in Verona .

Here is how it works:

High-speed trains ( Frecciarossa or ItaloTreno ):

• On average they take about 2 h 27 mins from Venezia Santa Lucia train station to Milano Centrale train station.
• They are very swish and travel really fast .
• However, this type of trains cost more and the tickets for them get more expensive the closer to the date of travel you buy them. 
• The earlier you buy your tickets , the less you will pay. Plan ahead and keep an eye here  for the best pricing. 
• If you want to maximise your sightseeing time and don’t mind the cost, then definitely get the direct high-speed train from Venice to Milan. 

Regional trains ( Regionale Veloce and Regionale Trenord ):

• Taking fast regional trains from Venice to Milan can be an alternative to high-speed trains. This option can be up to three times cheaper , however, the travel time will increase by at least an hour. Plus, you will need to change trains in Verona .
• You can buy your tickets in advance online or on the day of travel at the train station. The price remains the same irrespective of when you buy your tickets.
• Just be aware that Venezia Santa Lucia and Venezia Mestre – Venice’s main train stations – can get incredibly busy during rush hours. Allow plenty of time to buy your ticket stress-free in case there are queues in front of the ticket kiosks and ticket machines.
• Before boarding the train, you need to validate your tickets for the whole journey. Basically, you need to place your ticket in the slot of one of the validating machines. You will find them affixed to the walls and pillars of the train station. The machine will make a whirring noise and print a code on your ticket. If you don’t do it, your ticket is not valid and fines are large.
• The type of train to take from Venice to Verona is called Regionale Veloce . This is a fast regional train that only stops at the major train stations along the way. 
• The train station you need to change trains at in Verona is called Verona Porta Nuova . Do not get off at the Verona Porta Vescovo train station.
• Once in Verona, the type of train you need to take to Milan is called Regionale Trenord .
• Do not take a Regionale train from Venice to Verona Porta Nuova. It costs the same as a Regionale Veloce train but it is a much slower regional train that stops at every single stop along the way. Thus it will stretch your travel time unfeasibly.
• The journey by Regionale Veloce (Venice to Verona) and Regionale Trenord (Verona to Milan) trains takes about 3 h 25 mins altogether (including time changing trains at Verona Porta Nuova).

Train Stations:

There are two main train stations in Venice. Both of them are on the same train line:

• Venezia Santa Lucia train station – if you are staying in Venice proper, i.e. the historic centre of Venice on the islands in the Venetian Lagoon, this is the train station you will be travelling from. The travel times given above apply to the journeys from Venezia Santa Lucia train station to Milano Centrale.
• Venezia Mestre train station – if you are staying in Mestre – the mainland administrative borough of Venice – you will be travelling to Milan from this station. The high-speed and fast regional trains leave from Venezia Santa Lucia train station and then stop at Venezia Mestre. Travel times from Venezia Mestre to Milano Centrale are on average 10-12 mins shorter than the times given above.

There are several train stations in Milan. In principle, I suggest that you travel to Milano Centrale no matter what. For more information, have a look at these details:

• Milano Centrale – this is the city’s main railway station. It is huge and very busy. Allow plenty of time to navigate it and – on the way back – to validate your tickets (only if you are travelling by Regionale Trenord and Regionale Veloce ). This train station is served by both the high-speed trains and the regional trains.
• Milano Lambrate – this is the third-largest train station in Milan. Travelling from Venice, it is the last station that the regional trains stop at before Milano Centrale. Bear in mind that this train station is only served by the Regionale Trenord trains. So, if you are planning to travel by high-speed train from Venice to Milan, you will arrive directly at and then depart from Milano Centrale train station.

Buying Tickets Online:

Omio offers the easiest way to check train travel times and buy train tickets in advance. It shows prices and travel times for all available high-speed and fast regional trains irrespective of the company that runs them. This way you can compare costs and times of departure and arrival. 

Otherwise, you can use the official websites of Italy’s main railway operators:

• TrenItalia – for both high-speed trains and regional trains;
• ItaloTreno – for high-speed trains only.

Both have an English user interface. The only thing to remember is that on the TrenItalia website you need to use the Italian names of the respective train stations (i.e., Venezia Santa Lucia, Venezia Mestre, and Milano Centrale) when you are doing a search for tickets.

Venice to Milan by Car – if you prefer, you can travel from Venice to Milan by car. The journey by toll roads can take anything from two and a half hours to almost four hours depending on the itinerary you follow and how heavy the traffic is. Using GPS navigation is indispensable as traffic jams sometimes occur and it can help you avoid them as much as possible. Be prepared for a very assertive type of driving and drivers that seem to be on the offensive at all times.

This very helpful website will give you an estimate of how much the tolls are going to cost. Click here if you need to hire a car for your day trip from Venice to Milan.

As you know, Venice is a car-free city. The most popular places where people leave their cars in Venice are the island of Tronchetto, Piazzale Roma, or one of the car parks in Mestre. If your accommodation is further away from these places, the time that takes you to reach the respective car park will make your travel time to Milan even longer.

You will also need to factor in the cost of parking in Milan. For information about Milan’s car parks, roadside parking spaces, and payment options, you can consult  the official website of ATM  – the company looking after Milan’s transport network.

What to see in Milan on a Day Trip from Venice?

Milan is Lombardy’s capital and also Italy’s wealthiest city. This is a hustling and bustling metropolis where you can certainly feel the modern heart of Italy beating a frenetic drum. In comparison with other Italian cities and especially Venice, at a first glance, Milan may seem a bit grey, rough around the edges, and even a tad uninspiring. You just need to look deeper beneath the surface to easily discover impressive sights.

Many tourists boldly state that there is not much to see in Milan. Others come here exclusively to shop. Yet, Milan has a lot to offer to those seeking to see for themselves Italy’s masterpieces in terms of history, culture, and art. Whatever I say about Milan here, it’s not going to be enough. It’s best to see this large and important Italian city with your own eyes. 

There are many things to do, see, and fall in love with in Milan in Italy. If you have a plan in mind and/or are prepared to walk around all day, you can certainly cover a lot of ground here from morning till dusk. Just make sure that you wear your most comfortable shoes and clothes! Alternatively, you can get a ticket for  Milan’s hop-on hop-off bus  which will take you to the doorstep of all must-see sights.

Here is a shortlist to get you started planning your day trip from Venice to Milan:

• Duomo of Milan  – one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. With its lacy facade, it is a sight to behold. Click  here  if you prefer to visit it as part of a guided tour.
• Sforza Castle  – home of the rulers of Milan for many centuries. Nowadays this formidable fortress houses many must-see museums and libraries. Click  here  if you prefer to visit it as part of a guided tour.
• Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper  – this most famous work of art doesn’t need an introduction. The mural is in the Refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan. To make sure that you will be able to see it on your day trip from Venice, it is advisable to  book your ticket  well in advance. Click  here  if you prefer to visit it as part of a guided tour taking in other must-see sights in Milan, too.
• Pinacoteca di Brera  – this is Milan’s main public art gallery. Among the masterpieces that you can admire here are works by Andrea Mantegna, Piero della Francesa, Raphael, and Caravaggio. Click  here  if you prefer to visit it as part of a guided tour taking also the Sforza Castle.
• Biblioteca Ambrosiana  – a historic library with an art gallery. It’s a place that preserves a dozen of Leonardo da Vinci’s manuscripts together with his famous Codex Atlanticus.
• Navigli  – these are Milan’s ancient navigable canals. Nowadays, around them exists a lively quarter with lots of eateries and fun events. 
• Teatro alla Scala  – if you love music and opera, visiting La Scala during your time in Milan is a must. The onsite museum is especially beautiful. Here is a   short video  giving you an idea of what to expect. Click here if you want to  join a guided tour  of this worldwide famous theatre and its museum.
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II  – this is one of the world’s oldest shopping centres. Next door to Milan’s Duomo, it’s incredibly lavish and worth a visit even if shopping is not at the forefront of your mind.

Can I Book a Guided Visit, a Tour or an Activity in Milan? What About Tickets for Leonardo’s Last Supper?

Yes! And it’s a great idea to do it in advance in order to streamline your visit and see as much as possible in Milan on your day trip from Venice.

To get an idea of what’s on offer and the breadth of things you can see and do in Milan in a day, click here for an exhaustive list of  tours and activities provided by different companies.

From  skip the line tickets for Milan’s museums and sightseeing tours of Milan’s best corners to specific attractions in Milan and even tickets for Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper , everything is covered! Picking one or more of these tours and activities will streamline your sightseeing plan for the capital of Lombardy and will help you have a stress-free day trip.

Alternatively, you can buy The Milan Pass . For a set price you get free entry to a number of important museums around the city in addition to unlimited travel on public transport. Otherwise,  Milan’s hop-on hop-off bus  is a great way to get directly to all must-see sights.

What Is Your Personal Experience of Travelling from Venice to Milan?

I spent six years living in Vicenza – an elegant historic city between Venice and Milan in Italy. As such, I took every opportunity to travel to both Milan and Venice on day trips to explore their art, history, culture, unique events, delicious food, and exciting urban settings.

Travelling by train and by car around Veneto and Lombardy is incredibly easy and toll roads are not that expensive. A modern motorway leads directly from Venice all the way to Milan. Dozens of high-speed and fast regional trains connect the two cities all throughout the day.  

The high-speed trains, in general, are very clean, new, and well-maintained. They feel very swish. While they can get quite busy in the mornings and in the late afternoons with business people commuting between Venice, Milan, and the cities between the two, the journey is very comfortable.

I have travelled by regional train from Milan to Venice only once. It was OK. Personally, I prefer not to spend too much time in transit. However, I understand that for many reasons this is not possible all the times. 

Milan has so much to offer that a day here quickly flies away. Delving into the city’s history and art is very satisfying for you always end up discovering new things. Even if you are here just for a day, you can explore places of great historic, architectural, and artistic importance. Plus, the city as a whole is very interesting. There is something new to discover around every corner here.

I full-heartedly recommend taking a day trip from Venice to Milan to anyone spending a few days in Venice and wanting to see one of the greatest Italian cities with their own eyes.

In Conclusion

Taking a day trip from Venice to Milan is a great way to make your Italian holiday even more exciting.  

These are two of the most famous cities in Italy and the world. While Venice and Milan are not close geographically, thanks to a high-speed train and a modern motorway, they are a manageable distance away from one another.

Hence visiting Milan from Venice can be very straightforward. Milan – one of the world’s fashion capitals and Italy’s wealthiest city – has many must-see sights and museums. Several of them can be covered in one (hectic!) day.

In the above blog post, I give you detailed information on how to take such a day trip. From how to get from Venice to Milan as swiftly as possible to a shortlist of what to do and see in Milan in one day, all the bases are covered.

I hope that the information provided will galvanise you to put Milan at the top of your travel wish list and that you will visit this exciting Italian city on a day trip from Venice (or even stay longer ) as soon as this is possible.

Enjoy your day trip to Milan, Italy!

Now, get ready quick for your day trip from Venice to Milan in Italy!

• Consult these guidebooks
• Book train tickets .
• Rent a car .
• Research accommodation .
• Select local tours and activities .

More Helpful Lombardy Info for You

Lombardy: Best Cities and Towns , Verona to Milan , Milan to Verona ,  Milan to Venice ,  Milan to Lake Garda Lake Garda:   Best Towns ,  Nearest Airports ,  Travel Options ,  Lake Garda with Kids ,  10 Beautiful Castles Lake Como:   Things to See ,  Nesso

More Helpful Italy Info for You

Day Trips in Italy:  Bologna to Venice , Venice to Verona , Florence to Venice ,  Verona to Venice ,  Venice to Padua Best of Italy:   Italian Piazzas ,  Italian Food ,  Italian Markets ,  Italian Coffee Culture Northern Italy:   18 Best Cities to Visit ,  Major Airports Friuli Venezia Giulia:   Venzone ,  Most Beautiful Villages Emilia Romagna:  Bologna ,  Ravenna ,  Comacchio ,  Most Beautiful Villages Marche:   6 Reasons to Visit ,  Gradara ,  Frasassi Caves ,  Temple of Valadier Trentino:  Best Cities and Towns ,  15 Amazing Places,   Rovereto ,  Lakes in Trentino ,  Lake Caldonazzo ,  Paneveggio and Pale di San Martino Veneto:  Best Cities to Visit ,  Top 15 Places ,  30 Adventures ,  15 Most Colourful Places Venice:   Essential Tips ,  Hidden Gems ,  Best Airports ,  Boats in Venice ,  Haunted Venice ,  Day Trips from Venice ,  Arco del Paradiso Verona:   Things to Do in One Day ,  Verona Opera Festival ,  Day Trips from Verona Padua:   Things to Do in One Day ,  101 Facts About Padua ,  10 Reasons to Visit Padua ,  Day Trips from Padua Vicenza:   Things to Do ,  Day Trips from Vicenza

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5 BEST Venice Tours from Milan (selected by an Italian)

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: April 9, 2024

Categories Europe , Italy

Thinking of visiting Venice on a day trip? In this article, I bring you the best Venice tours from Milan to help you plan the experience of a lifetime. Check them out! 

Venice, the city of canals, is a captivating location with striking Gothic Architecture and a unique layout. The city comprises over 100 small islands, and the only way to get around them is by boat, one of the most special traits of Venice. 

Its gondolas gliding down the canals , arched bridges, and narrow alleys contribute to the charm of one of Italy’s most coveted destinations.

Located 167 miles (270km) east of Milan, a day trip from the fashion capital is sometimes overlooked due to the distance between the two cities. I always recommend spending two or 3 days in Venice .

I mean – Venice totally deserves it! And if you’re on a 2-week trip around Italy , you simply cannot miss it.

However, I understand that not everyone has the available vacation time to make it happen. In this case, it’s entirely possible to visit Venice on a day trip from Milan .

That’s why I have selected the very best Venice tours from Milan to help you plan an unforgettable trip. Check them out below! 

Can you trust me with your travel plans? Having grown up in Bologna, Italy, I’ve committed the past decade to helping millions of people in organizing memorable trips to Italy. My expertise lies in pinpointing enjoyable activities and ensuring that you take part in only the most outstanding tours.

I generally use Viator and Get Your Guide to book tours around the world. I especially recommend them for their great cancellation policy. If for any reason you need to cancel your tour, you can do so up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund. 

Limited time? These are the top tours

OUR PICK: The BEST Venice Tour from Milan 

This Day Trip to Venice with Guided City Tour from Milan is our top pick. It’s a very comprehensive, 14-hour excursion that includes an interesting guided visit to the city of canals. 

You’ll follow your guide around Venice’s main sights, taking in their magnificent architecture. Check out St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, Dodge’s Palace, and the famous Bridge of Sighs.

Then, indulge in a relaxing boat ride around the lagoon to visit the surrounding islands.

Break up for lunch (own expense) and use the rest of the afternoon to wander around at your leisure.

Why this tour? It’s a super complete tour that allows you to take in the beauty of Venice to the fullest. You’ll enjoy hassle-free transfers, and an expert guide will introduce you to Venice’s history, architecture, and legends.

After getting to know the city on a guided tour, you’ll be free to check off other bucket list items, like gondola riding or having aperitivo by the canals. All in all, it combines all the best things to do in Venice in a single excursion.

Read what the reviews say

“ This day was simply amazing!!! Driver’s was very good and professional, our guide was more than PERFECT!!!! very kind, smile all the time, 10 of 10 ! This money is worth it 100%. Amazing day and amazing service! Thank you to all of the team for this spectacular day!” Monika – Read more reviews

This day trip to Venice from Milan includes : Roundtrip transfers, a guide, a boat trip, and a guided tour. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Another Great Option to Consider

The Venice Full-Day Guided Tour From Milan is a 14-hour journey with roundtrip transfers to the fashion capital. Upon reaching Venice, you’ll follow your guide around the city, learning about its fascinating history.

Admire landmarks such as San Marco’s Square and Basilica, the Rialto Bridge, and the Bridge of Sighs, and watch the gondolas glide along the canals.

After an informative guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore at your leisure, and indulge in local bites.

This tour includes : Roundtrip transfers, a guide, and a guided visit in Venice. ➥ BOO K IT HERE

Private Venice Tours from Milan

▶️ This Private Full Day Tour from Milan to Venice with Local Guide and Fast Train accommodates up to 15 people. Your group will experience a very personalized, unique day trip led by an expert guide.

You’ll be picked up at Venice’s train station by your guide (train tickets are included in the tour), and get to explore the city right away.  

Learn about the history, culture, and architecture of Venice as you pass by its main attractions. St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, and the Bridge of Sights are but a few of them!

Then, get some free time to stroll on your own. Go shopping, have a meal overlooking the canals, or enjoy a gondola ride before it’s time to head back. 

This Milan to Venice tour includes : Roundtrip train tickets, pick-up at the station, a guided tour of Venice, and free time. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ This Full Day Private Driving Tour of Venice from Milan takes private groups of up to 13 to the bewitching city of canals. You’ll travel in a luxury vehicle after a convenient pick-up at your hotel.

In Venice, you’ll have a 2-hour guided tour around the city, getting to admire its UNESCO World Heritage Sites as you learn about them. Be mesmerized by the enchanting canals and impressive architecture, all of which are awe-inspiring.

Step foot in St. Mark’s Basilica, get up close to Venetian art, and opt for a gondola ride along the Grand Canal to make your trip all the more memorable.  

This Venice tour from Milan includes : Hotel transfers, a guided tour, taxes, and insurance. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Venice & Verona Tour from Milan

Ready for a romantic experience? Join the Venice and Verona Full Day Tour from Milan to visit two of the most mesmerizing cities near Milan.

Venice is known for its enchanting canals and picturesque bridges. And Verona has been a synonym for love ever since Shakespeare set Romeo and Juliet there. 

This trip makes its first stop in Venice, where you’ll have a very interesting guided tour before being granted free time to wander around. Make sure to snap countless pictures, shop for souvenirs, and taste the famous cicchetti!  

Then, make your way to Verona, an equally enchanting location. There you’ll have the perfect balance between a city tour and time to explore at your leisure. Juliet’s house, Castelvecchio, and the Arena di Verona are unmissable landmarks to visit!

This tour includes : Transportation, a guide, and a comprehensive tour in both cities. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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Venice to milan day trip.

Tour guide for the day

Beautiful private day trip from Venice to Milan with our friendly local drivers and comfortable transport. There are different options for sightseeing places to choose from when traveling from Venice to Milan. In the base price we have included direct private transfer from Venice to Milan and back, but optionally you can add also stops on the way with most popular places to visit that we have suggested. Other options are possible when contacting us.

We made this fantastic private  Venice to Milan day trip , so travelers can visit the most popular sights between many different cities in Italy.

It’s one day trip. We provide you with a driver and a vehicle, that will take you to all the places which you will select.

Please note that this tour might include some walking. Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended.

• Departure Venice
• Departure Time 8:00
• Included Pick-up and Drop-off from your Hotel or Apartment English/Italian speaking driver Transfer from Venice to Milan
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One Week Venice To Milan Itinerary

Are you planning a 7 day road trip from Venice to Milan in northern Italy and looking for the perfect one week itinerary? You’re in luck!

This popular tourist route is only a 3 hour drive. But it’s packed with some of Italy’s top landmarks, including medieval UNESCO towns, ornate palazzos, Roman ruins, and secret hidden gems of the Renaissance. There’s no shortage of amazing attractions to explore along the way.

Starting in Venice, this northern Italy road trip assumes you’ve already taken in the heady attractions of the world’s most romantic floating city and are ready to explore more of Italy.

If you haven’t yet visited Venice, no problem! Check out my detailed 2 days in Venice itinerary to add to your northern Italy road trip. Adding this itinerary will extend your trip from 7 days to 9 days.

If you were put off by the crowds in Venice, consider stopping in Treviso before departing. This authentic canal city boasts picturesque canals, lovely frescoed buildings, and ancient churches. Treviso is a charming destination that’s well worth a visit.

Overview of Seven Days In Northern Italy

Here’s a quick snapshot of what you’ll see on this week road trip itinerary from Venice to Milan:

• Day 1 : Leave Venice, stop in Padua and Vicenza, overnight in Verona
• Day 2 : Explore Verona, overnight in Verona
• Day 3 : From Verona, day trip to Mantua
• Day 4 : Drive to Brescia, stopping in Sirmione on the way, overnight in Brescia
• Day 5 : Explore Brescia, overnight in Brescia
• Day 6 : Drive to Bergamo, explore Bergamo, overnight in Milan
• Day 7 : Explore Milan, overnight in Milan
• In this Venice to Milan travel itinerary, you’ll have three bases: Verona (3 nights), Brescia (2 nights), and Milan (2 nights).

One Week Itinerary From Venice To Milan

Here is my recommended route for a one week road trip in northern Italy.

Day 1: Visit Padua and Vicenza en route to Verona

Get up bright and early. Head to Venice’s Piazzale Roma to rent a car. AutoEurope usually has the best deals. It’s much cheaper if you drive a clutch transmission.

Get the smallest car you can for Italy’s narrow medieval roads. Today, you’ll stop at Padua and/or Vicenza en route from Venice to Verona.

READ : Tips For Driving in Europe

If you don’t want to make two stops, simply pick the town that appeals to you the most. If you love Renaissance art, choose Padua. If you love architecture, choose Vicenza. To help you decide, you can check out my one day in Padua itinerary and my guide to the best things to do in Vicenza .

Approximate Driving Times:

• Venice to Padua: 45 minutes
• Padua to Vicenza: 40 minutes
• Vicenza to Verona: 45 minutes

1. Padua: Giotto Frescos

Padua is a pretty university town outside Venice. Padua boasts one of the greatest treasures in Western art, the Scrovegni Chapel.

It’s also known as the Arena Chapel. Honestly, it’s worth a trip to Padua just to see this one attraction.

Wallpapered with exquisite frescos by Giotto, the Scrovegni Chapel is a precious masterpiece of Italian art.

Giotto painted a cycle of 39 frescos depicting the lives of Mary and Jesus in 1303-05. It’s as stunning in person as the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican Museums .

Giotto was the greatest painter of the 14th century. His Scrovegni frescos were a watershed moment in art history. Because of its naturalism, the chapel is considered one of the first examples of “modern art” and profoundly influenced subsequent Renaissance painters.

Visiting the Scrovegni Chapel can be a complicated affair. It’s a strictly controlled site with admission limitations and a “decontamination” process.

Here’s my complete visitor’s guide to the Scrovegni Chapel , with must know tips for visiting and getting tickets. Click here to book a guided 2 hour tour of Padua and the chapel.

While in Padua, you also need to visit the Basilica of Saint Anthony , nicknamed Il Santo . The exterior is strongly influenced by the bulbous clustered domes of St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice . The interior is pure Gothic, austere and rather bleak. Its highlight is sculptures by Donatello.

If you’re a fan of the famed Early Renaissance artist Andrea Mantegna , pop into the hidden gem of the Church of the Eremitani .

This was where Mantegna shot to fame with frescos he painted in the church. Many were bombed during WWII. But some survive.

2. Vicenza: Palladian Architecture

If you’re an architecture fan, Vicenza will appeal. Vicenza is variously known as the “Pearl of the Renaissance,” the “Gold City,” and the “City of Palladio.” It’s one of Italy’s most beautiful towns .

Vicenza was home to celebrated Venetian architect Andrea Palladio. The town is like an open air architecture museum. Vicenza has loads of historic buildings, including its own Duomo.

Be sure to stroll down the Corso Andrea Palladio, a homage to the famous architect. See Palladio’s beautiful Basilica Palladiana in the center of the Piazza dei Signori. The basilica also houses a museum with a fantastic collection of relics and artifacts.

Equally stunning is Palladio’s Olympic Theater with intact original stage sets. The Olympic Theater is one of only three remaining Renaissance theaters in Italy. It may be Palladio’s masterpiece.

A cruise down the Brenta Canal passes Palladio’s famous Villa La Malcontenta, aka Villa Foscari. It’s a UNESCO-listed site and beautiful well-preserved jewel. House & Garden Magazine called it “the most beautiful house in the world.”

It’s only open 2 days per week, so check the website for times, entry fees, and how to get there.

According to legend, the mansion was called the “unhappy” villa because it was a “prison” for a noblewoman accused of infidelity by her jealous husband. More likely, it just suffered from the flooding of the River Brenta.

Here’s my complete guide to the best things and see in Vicenza . You might want to book a 2.5 hour  walking tour of Palladio’s masterpieces  or a  1.5 hour walking tour with a local .

Day 2: Explore Verona: Medieval Romance

This pretty Italian town is full of red and peach colored medieval buildings and Roman ruins. Verona was made famous by Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet and The Two Men of Verona . And it’s a fitting site for a high octane infusion of romance.

You may want to book a 2 hour guided walking tour to get oriented. Or a longer walking tour that includes food and wine .

Juliet’s House , or Casa de Giulietta, is a gorgeous 14th Gothic building in Verona. But, like the fictional love story, Juliet’s House is itself a fiction. It wasn’t owned by the Capulets.

Juliet’s House is really a manufactured site, scorned by hard core skeptics. Nonetheless, the character of Juliet is a rarified symbol of love in an often cynical world. Juliet’s Wall is covered with notes, scribbles, and love letters.

Once you’ve made the obligatory Juliet pilgrimmage, you’ll want to tour the doughty Roman Arena, the Arena di Verona, in the Piazza Bra.

It’s the third largest classical arena in Italy, after Rome’s Colosseum and Capua’s Colosseum.

You should also stroll through Verona’s picturesque piazzas — the Piazza dei Signori (with a statue of Dante) and the Piazza delle Erbe (with a statue of another poet, Barbarani).

Visit the Church of San Zeno Maggiore, where Romeo and Juliet were fictionally married. And cross the absolutely stunning Ponte Pietra stone bridge.

At sunset, make the calorie-burning climb of 100,000 steps to the viewing platform at Piazzale Castel San Pietro. There’s also a funicular to get you there.

You’ll have breathtaking panoramic views over Verona’s skyline. On the way down, you could stop for dinner at Trattoria Dal Rapeton.

For Verona, I recommend staying at the Hotel Aurora . You’ll have sweeping city views from the hotel terrace, which looks out on San Zeno.

Another great option is Due Torri Hotel , a modern luxury hotel with a vintage feel. The Grand Hotel Des Arts is a beautiful understated hotel near the Plaza Bra.

For dinner, try Restaurant Il Desco or Casa Perbellini (Michelin-starred), Vecio Macello (seafood), or Trattoria Dal Gal (homemade pastas).

Day 3: Day Trip to Mantua: Renaissance Realm of the Gonzaga Dynasty

On day 3 of your Venice to Milan itinerary, visit the captivating Renaissance town of Mantua . It’s only a 30 minute drive from Verona. I would plan on a full day there and you can check out my one day in Mantua itinerary .

Italy is usually overflowing with tourists. But in the tiny undiscovered village of Mantua the world is still and quiet. Mantua must surely be one of Europe’s best kept secrets .

Mantua is surrounded by three lakes and filled with artistic masterpieces. Its historic center is a designated UNESCO site. Mantua is the perfect place for strolling — with arcaded streets, cobbled lanes, pretty piazzas, and graceful buildings.

What makes Mantua especially dreamy is its incredible Renaissance art and architecture, courtesy of the aristocratic Gonzaga family who ruled Mantua for four centuries.

Here, you’ll find the sprawling Ducal Palace, the magnificent over-the-top Te Palace , the Basilica of Sant’Andrea, the Teatro Bivbiena, and the Rotunda of San Lorenzo.

For a tiny place, it’s just amazing. You may want to book a  2 hour guided walking tour  for an overview. 

The Basilica of Sant’Andrea is a milestone church of the Renaissance. Ludovico Gonzaga hired famed architect Leon Battista Alberti to design a classically inspired church.

The church had to be grand enough to house one of Christianity’s most precious relics, the blood of Christ. The famous “blood of Mantua” is contained in a set of sacred vessels in the crypt below the central nave of the basilica.

One of Mantua’s most renowned attractions is the Ducal Palace, also known as Palazzo Ducale. It’s the second largest residential building in Europe, only after the Vatican.

This massive fortress-like residence boasts 600 ornate rooms, complete with gilded, frescoed, and marbled finishes, and is crowned by the stunning Hall of Mirrors.

But the real highlight of the palace is the Camera degli Sposi , created by the great artist Andrea Mantegna. To visit this illusionary frescoed room, you’ll need to book a timed entry ticket separately.

The Camera is famous for being the first trompe l’oeil design in Western art, and it has had a profound influence on the decoration of ceilings ever since. A visit to the Palazzo Ducale and the Camera degli Sposi is a must-see for any art lover.

You may want to book a guided tour of the Ducal Palace. You can book this  2 hour tour of the palace  or a  3 hour walking tour that incudes the palace .

You’ve also got to cast your eyes on the swishy Te Palace . It’s one of the world’s most beautiful and unique buildings. To get there, take the Via Principe Amedeo from the town center and walk for 20 minutes.

This historic building was the summer residence of the Gonzaga family. Te Palace was built for the pleasure loving son of Isabella d’Este, Frederico II Gonzaga. He fancied himself a Dionysis type, and blinged up the palace with sybaritic frescos.

The palace was designed and decorated by Raphael pupil, Giulio Romano. The must see rooms are the Hall of the Horses (portraits of the Gonzaga’s prize winning horses), the Hall of Amor and Psyche (erotic paintings), and the staggering Hall of the Giants (colossal scale frescos with a virtual reality vibe).

Click  here  to book a 1.5 hour guided tour of the magnificent Te Palace.

Mantua has some unique local delicacies you should sample. Mantua’s signature dish is a sweet pumpkin filled tortelli de zucca , laced with amoretto. Another specialty is mostarda, a candied fruit spiced with mustard essence and pepper.

For dessert, you’ll find Sbrisolona cake in almost every shop. It’s made with flour, sugar, almonds and butter — a delicious caloric bomb. Wash it all down with sparkling Lambrusco.

Day 4: Drive to Brescia, Stopping in Sirmione

The drive from Verona to Brescia on day 4 is about one hour. That leaves you plenty of time to stop and explore the pretty town of Sirmione on the way.

Sirmione sits at the end of a narrow peninsula jutting into Lake Garda, the largest lake in northern Italy.

Sirmione is known as “the pearl of the islands and peninsulas.” Oleander, cypress, and palm trees mix into the foliage. You can come here to loaf or to inspect ruins.

When you’re approaching Sirmione, look for signs for the “centro historic.” There are plenty of paid car parks outside the town’s historic core. But get as close as you can. Be forewarned, in high season Sirmione will be thronged with tourists.

If you want to relax and enjoy the beauty of Sirmione, you could wile away your day at the thermal baths, hike on the lakeside trails, or take a boat tour.

For history buffs, a visit to Sirmione’s Roman ruins is a must. These ruins contain the best-preserved Roman public buildings in northern Italy.

Additionally, the Grottoes of Catullus is an archaeological site that features the ruins of a villa that is said to have belonged to the famous Roman poet Catullus.

Sirmione’s most iconic attraction, however, is Rocca Scaligero. This unforgettable fortress dominates the town’s medieval skyline and was built in the 13th century by the Scaligero family of Verona.

Completely surrounded by a navigable moat, the square-cut castle boasts impressive walls and turrets made of pale rustic stone. Its crenellated battlements are topped with red accents, and it’s said that even the famous poet Dante stayed in the castle.

From the sweeping cobbled courtyard, steel staircases lead to the first turret, where visitors can take in stunning panoramic views of the town. For an even more spectacular view, visitors can climb the 146 steps to the tallest tower. If you’re looking for an unforgettable sightseeing experience in Sirmione, Rocca Scaligero is not to be missed.

Day 5: Explore Brescia: a Double Cathedral Town

Nestled at the foot of the Alps just a few miles from Lake Como, Brescia is a beautiful secret gem in Europe. It’s chock full of impressive monuments and UNESCO sites.

Your first point of call is Piazza Paolo VI, formerly called Piazza del Duomo. The square holds not one but two cathedrals.

The Old Cathedral, locally known as Duomo Vecchio or La Rotunda, is truly incredible. Building began in the 11th century, with much subsequent construction. It’s a rare example of a circular-plan Romanesque basilica.

The New Cathedral, with Baroque and Neo-Classical designs, was built in the 17th and 18th centuries. It boasts one of Italy’s biggest domes, reminiscent of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome .

Piazza della Loggia is another beautiful and elegant square. It’s surrounded with Venetian style buildings, including the Renaissance Palazzo della Loggia and an astrological clock. Like the Palazzo Pubblico in Siena , it was intended to be an emblem of good government.

Another must see site in Brescia is the Capitoline Temple, built by Emperor Vespasian in 73 A.D. It was dedicated to the gods Juno, Jupiter, and Minerva. The temple was mostly destroyed in the 4th century and only rediscovered in 1823. Six of the ancient columns still stand. A Roman Theater is just a few yards away.

If you want to stay in the center of Brescia, consider the Hotel Sirmione. If you want to relax in the countryside, consider staying at the L’Albereta near Lake Iseo. Charming with service par excellence, it’s a private enclave in Ebrusco with a state of the art spa that attracts fashionistas from Milan.

If you’re a foodie, Brescia boasts nine Michelin-starred restaurants, including Lanzani Bottega & Bitrot, Il Labirinto, Carne & Spirito, and Castello Malvezzi. If you want to dine in a 17th century palazzo, try La Sosta. Brescia is also known for its yummy bubbly sparkling wines.

Day 6: Drive to Bergamo, explore and overnight in Milan

On day 6 of your Venice to Milan itinerary, head to the medieval town of Bergamo. It’s massive defensive walls are a UNESCO-listed site.

Bergamo is just 30 minutes away from Brescia, located between Milan and Lake Como. Bergamo outshines Italy’s capital in beauty and graceful architecture. It’s a fascinating historical city, with a handsome walled old town.

Bergamo has an upper and lower city. Naturally, the upper city, or Citta Alta, is the older Renaissance-y part of town. Start off with a walk around the 16th century Venetian Walls. The vibrant center of Bergamo is Piazza Vecchia. There, you’ll find every manner of shop, cafe, and restaurant.

The other must see square is the Piazza del Duomo. Walk through the archways of the Palazzo della Ragione and you’ll reach it.

The square boasts the beautiful Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. Go inside! You enter through a portico with Venetian lions into an extravaganza of Baroque gilding and Renaissance tapestries.

To the right of the basilica lies the even more impressive Colleoni Chapel. The church sports a pink and white marble facade

Inside there’s a remarkable 15th century chapel.It’s a combination of Renaissance, Mannerist, and Baroque architectural elements. The chapel is one of the finest Renaissance buildings in the Lombardy region.

Besides its beautiful architecture, Bergamo is famous for polenta. Every restaurant serves up some incarnation of polenta. Bergamo even does it for dessert — Polenta e Osei, a cake made to look like polenta.

In Bergamo, you can book a guided walking tour or a guided food tour .

Day 7: Explore Milan

Milan is an amazing destination in northern Italy. It’s a vibrant and exciting modern city, the thriving finance and fashion capital of Italy. Milan has a serious arts scene, breathtaking sites, and gastronomical delights.

Milan is not “an industrial city,” as the uninitiated claim. Milan has personality, combining old world charm and modern “bright lights, big city” flair in compelling fashion.

You can’t help but be dazzled by Milan’s architecture, historic sites, iconic art, and foodie scene.

Milan is most well known for its massive Gothic Duomo, Sforza Castle, and as the home of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper .

The flamboyant Gothic Duomo is the third largest in Europe after St. Peter’s Basilica and Seville Cathedral. The most memorable part of a Duomo visit is wandering among the forest of spires and statues on the rooftop.

Click  here  to pre-book a must have skip the line ticket for both the Duomo and the rooftop terrace. When you arrive at the Duomo, make sure to get in the fast track line. Click  here  to book a ticket + guided tour of the duomo.

In any event, I won’t repeat myself. Here’s my one day in Milan itinerary to make the most out of your time there. It also includes must know tips on what to see/eat/do in Milan and where to stay in Milan.

And here’s my complete guide to Leonardo’s The Last Supper and how to see this Renaissance masterpiece. This is another attraction you have to book well in advance .

READ: Guide To All of Leonardo da Vinci’s Paintings

Tips for Driving in Italy

If you’re driving be sure to keep cash on you. You’ll have to pay every time you use a motorway based on the distance driven.

You’ll collect a ticket each time you enter a motorway and then pay each time you exit based on the information on your ticket. No credit cards are accepted, so be prepared.

If you prefer to travel by train, I’ve written about train travel tips in Italy in this guide to day trips by train from Florence .

READ : General Tips for Visiting Italy

More Time in Northern Italy?

Do you have extra time after finishing your Venice to Milan itinerary?

From Milan, head to the Italian Lake District for a few days. The Italian lake district is one of Italy’s prettiest regions, situated in the shadow of the Alps. The main lakes are Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore.

Visiting the Lake District is easier by car. Otherwise, you’ll spend a lot of time on buses, trains, and ferries getting there and around.

Though, once you’re there, driving in the narrow winding roads (for example, in Bellagio) is a challenge.

You can also book a guided tour. This day tour from Milan takes you to Lake Como. This half day tou r takes you to Lake Maggiore. You can even book a 4 day tour from Milan that covers all the lakes and Verona.

Most people settle in at the swishiest villages, magical Bellagio or understatedly elegant Varenna on Lake Como. Lake Como is famous for its beauty, its palazzi, its mansions, the picture perfect medieval towns, and mountainous backdrop.

But northern Italy’s other lakes — Garda, Maggiore, Orta, Iseo — are just as scenic and less crowded. Lake Garda is a place of faded elegance.

Lake Maggiore is home to the pretty town of Stresa. Lake Iseo is a hidden oasis and a nature lover’s paradise. Here’s a good guide to the Italian lake district.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my one week itinerary for road tripping from Venice to Milan. You may enjoy these other Italy travel guides and resources:

• 10 Day Itinerary for Italy
• 10 Day Itinerary for Tuscany
• 7 Ways To Spend 1 Week in Italy
• 10 Day Itinerary from Milan to Rome
• 35+ Historic Landmarks in Italy
• 30 Most Beautiful Towns in Italy
• 5 Day Itinerary for Rome
• 3 Day Itinerary for Florence
• 2 Day Itinerary for Venice
• 1 Day Itinerary for Milan
• 1 Day Itinerary for Siena

If you’d need a Venice to Milan itinerary, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on April 17, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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Milan to Venice Tours & Trips

Find adventures that start in Milan and then finish in Venice. Trips from Milan to Venice are most popular in May, with the most tours doing this route then.

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Lakes & Lagoon, Como, Lake Garda & Venice 6 days private tour

Tris small Gropparello tour gas coverei tue most beautful cities in only 5 days. our tour guide did a magnificent job guiding us through the the various cities and giviving us history and background information. The miniban was clean and comfortable throughout the trip. Filippo our driver is a true professional. Highly recommended

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MIlan, Venice & the Jewels of Veneto (2024) (Milan to Venice, 2024)

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Milan, Venice & the Jewels of Veneto (2025) (Milan to Venice, 2025)

• Intl. Flights Included

Bella Italia: Milan, Verona & Venice

• Flights included
• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

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10 Day Milan, Venice, Tuscany & Rome Tour Package

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On our 10 Day Milan, Venice, Tuscany & Rome Tour Package , indulge in an adventure filled with fine art, beautiful architecture, ancient history, and heavenly food. In Milan, see the ancient Duomo – Europe’s fifth largest cathedral – and witness the city’s futuristic towers. Travel along scenic routes to Tuscany and admire the lush landscapes. As you marvel at Renaissance art in Florence, and explore Siena, sample some fine wine with a breathtaking view to match. Snap some memorable photos at the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa and wander the beautiful canals of Venice. While in the Floating City, visit Doge’s Palace and learn of the rich history encompassing this stunning landmark. Taste the delectable flavors of Rome and witness all the popular destinations including the Colosseum and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Don’t miss our 10 Day Milan, Venice, Tuscany & Rome Tour Package if you are seeking the perfect Italian getaway. Taste the delectable foods and wines of Italy, discover captivating history with local experts, and visit many bucket list destinations. Our tour offers expert guides, hotel accommodations of your choice, food and wine tastings, train tickets, skip-the-line entries, and more. Book your 10-day tour today!

10 Day Milan, Venice, Tuscany & Rome Tour Package Highlights

• Visit all of the epic destinations in Rome, from the Colosseum and Vatican to the Sistine Chapel
• Enjoy gorgeous views of the Tuscan countryside and the lush hilltop town of San Gimignano
• In Milan, see the beautiful St. Mark's Cathedral and admire the incredible architecture
• Taste scrumptious flavors on a Rome food tour and sample delectable wine right in the heart of Tuscany
• Explore Florence’s rich past by appreciating Renaissance artwork from centuries ago
• Gain insider info at all these destinations with experienced guides at your side
• Enjoy stays at the finest hotels of your choice picked from our great selection
• Enjoy a gondola ride along Venice's stunning canals and take in all the Venetian sights

10 Day Milan, Venice, Tuscany & Rome Tour Package Itinerary

• Arrive in Milan and make your way to your hotel - optional airport transfer
• Overnight in Milan
• Stroll through Milan's streets with your guide and learn about this fashionable city's past
• Stop at Navigli to admire the iconic canals and the Darsena
• Tour Milan's famous landmarks: Duomo, San Lorenzo Columns, Scala Opera House, Piazza Affari, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and more
• From here, you can continue your explorations or make your way back to the hotel to rest
• Train transfer to Venice
• Arrive in Venice and check in to your hotel
• Along the Cannareggio Canal, enjoy an aperitivo paired with gourmet snacks
• Explore the Bacari of Venice and visit local osterias
• Overnight in Venice
• Discover Venice's incredible sites: Rialto Bridge, Grand Canal, Piazza San Marco, St. Mark's Cathedral, and more
• Enjoy a gondola ride
• Free time to explore on your own and grab lunch
• Visit Doge's Palace with skip-the-line tickets
• Climb up to the terrace for views of Piazza San Marco
• Transfer to Florence by train
• Head to your hotel
• Overnight in Florence
• Explore Florence's iconic landmarks from the outside: Uffizi Gallery, Piazza della Signoria, Florence Duomo, and more
• Enjoy a tasting tour at Storico Mercato Centrale indoor market
• Atop a luxurious rooftop, sip on a classic Italian aperitivo while watching the sunset
• Reach Siena and tour the medieval city
• Visit the hilltop town of San Gimignano to admire panoramic views
• Arrive in Pisa to see the famous Leaning Tower, enjoy gelato, and visit local shops
• Train from Florence to Rome
• Begin a tasting tour of Rome, the Eternal City
• Hop from one excellent shop/restaurant to another, tasting Rome’s most iconic flavors: suppli, calzone, pizza, arrosticini, Italian cake, fine wine, and more
• Enjoy tiramisu with Italian coffee
• Overnight in Rome
• Explore the Colosseum with skip-the-line tickets
• Visit The Vatican Museums, complete with 54 galleries showcasing the works of Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Raphael, and more
• Stop at St. Peter's Basilica, one of the world's largest basilicas
• Optional airport transfer is available

If you have any questions about our 10 Day Milan, Venice, Tuscany & Rome Tour Package, please contact us. Our team is standing by and will be happy to help

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An Unexpected Journey from Venice to Milan

• November 17, 2017
• City Escapes , Food & Wine , Italy , Road Warriors

Three Days in Lombardia + Wine Tasting in Franciacorta

“When life gives you lemons, make lemonade,” or so the old adage goes. Well, when life gives you three unexpected days in Italy, you rent a Mercedes convertible (not by choice), book an incredible hotel in the countryside, and set off on a glorious adventure. Venice was scheduled to be the grand finale to our month in Europe , but in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, St. Maarten’s airport was a disaster zone, not accepting any incoming flights. We held out hope that our flight home on October 1st with Air France would be a go, but it was cancelled last minute. Instead, we booked a flight out on American Airlines on the 4th from Milan, giving us three days in Italy that we hadn’t anticipated.

After two days in Venice , we said our goodbyes to the city and headed to Venice’s Piazzale Roma to rent a car. You guys, we were finally doing it. We were being spontaneous!  We were off on an unplanned adventure. How great this was to book a hotel last minute and set off to rent a car without having pre-booked anything. This is the spontaneity and excitement people talked about!

My hopes were high when we pulled up to the stretch of car rentals and I was excited for this extra time in Italy. Wait… (excitement beginning to fade now), what was this line, dozens of people deep? This couldn’t possibly be to rent a car, right?

Oh yes. Yes, it was the line to pick up rental cars. Out of a half-dozen rental agencies, only Avis had cars left from what we were hearing, but we weren’t sure how many they even had at this point. Many of the people were in line waiting to just collect a pre-booked vehicle but there were a few ahead of us that were waiting and hoping that there were still unclaimed cars available.

Oy. Who ever said that this spontaneity thing was a good idea anyway?! When we finally made it to the front of the line, we got the news: there were cars available, but automatics were a problem (manuals only at this point). Alright, I’m putting this in writing and ashamedly admitting that I don’t know how to drive a stick shift… in my defense, Scott doesn’t either so it makes us exceptionally useless as a couple when it comes to car rentals.

Georgio, the gentleman at the counter, could see the pain and stress in our eyes and went out of his way to help. He dug through keys of freshly returned cars to see if anything – just a single vehicle – was an automatic. We went in wanting something inexpensive, maybe a cramped Fiat, but at this point anything would work. We looked on as he grabbed a paper bag and pulled out a set of keys.

“I have one automatic. It’s a Mercedes cabriolet. Would that be okay?”

Would that be okay?! Mister, you’ve just told us that you’ve saved us by somehow finding an automatic, and now you’re telling us that we get to act way cooler than we are by zipping around Northern Italy in a Mercedes convertible.

We’ll take it.

So friends, that is how we set off on our three-day adventure from Venice to Milan in a car that cost far more than we budgeted, soaking up the last remaining days of summer in the Italian countryside. If you’re heading to Italy looking for a few stops between Venice and Milan and wondering where to go, we had the same questions and thoughts. Here’s how we ended up crafting three unexpected days in Italy:

Erbusco, Lombardia ✧ L’Albereta Resort

Knowing that we wanted a home base somewhere between Venice and Milan, we were fairly set on heading to Lake Como with our extra time. Weather was telling us to pick a different locale though. It was slightly overcast and the temps were beginning to drop in early October; that fall weather that makes you want to cozy on up somewhere warm and homey, wrapped in a blanket near a fireplace.

We refocused our efforts and instead looked for a hotel to be our anchor point rather than the destination itself. We wanted a charming country home, something tucked away in a smaller town that would allow us to steep in quietness and the little luxuries of a well-appointed boutique hotel.

Enter L’Albereta ,  the exact hotel that we’d unknowingly been dreaming of. Charming with service par excellence, it was a perfect enclave that seemed to cater to in-the-know Italians. Set near Lago d’Iseo in Brescia, it’s one of Italy’s lesser known lake destinations for international visitors. Many of us first think of Lake Como, then of Lake Garda… Lake Iseo rarely even hits people’s radar, and we fell into it by serendipitous happenstance.

We checked in and immediately knew we made the right decision. Set in the tiny town of Erbusco in the vineyards of Franciacorta, Italy’s exclusive sparkling wine region (Italy’s equivalent of champagne; a different method from Prosecco, the country’s more affordable counterpart). The weather was grey when we arrived, which only made us all the more excited to cozy on up with a glass of red wine in the comfort of our new home for the next few nights.

During three nights there, we ate at the hotel every night. There are a few restaurants nearby off property, but in true Relais & Chateaux fashion, the outlets are exceptional here, with a mid-casual pizza restaurant alongside of a great bistro, plus a Michelin-starred fine dining establishment. Before each meal, we sat outside on the deck overlooking Lake Iseo, with our aperitif in hand, blankets around us, and stars above.

Lake Iseo + Monte Isola

Erbusco sits a short drive from the banks of Lago d’Iseo in Northern Italy. We had driven past Lake Garda on our journey from Venice to Milan, but Garda is substantially bigger than Iseo. If you’re staying in Erbusco, a drive along the lake and a visit to Monte Isola, the island in the center, is practically mandatory. With our top dropped (I mean, if we were going to have to pay for a convertible, we were going to make use of it!), we headed out to explore some of the towns that dot the lakeside. The most sizable town there is the town of Iseo, which took us less than an hour to walk through on the quiet day that we visited.

Heading up to Sulzano granted us ferry access for a quick 5 minute ride from the mainland to Monte Isola, where we set off to explore and have lunch on the waterfront. We purchased ferry tickets from a convenience store near the dock. Our tickets were about €4 per person, though pricing will vary a bit depending on your point of embarkation (anywhere from €2 to €5.50 per ticket).

Monte Isola  is a tiny little droplet of land in the middle of the lake, but is home to a number of restaurants and a surprising number of residents that call the island home. After strolling part of the island’s perimeter, we sat at  Hosteria Milago  to have lunch plus a bottle of bubbly with a view. If you’re headed to Monte Isola, allot 2 – 3 hours to enjoy lunch and a quick stroll unless you’re set on hiking or heading further afield. The ferries leave in regular intervals throughout the day (every half hour or so), so it’s never too long to catch a ride back to shore.

We had anticipated spending much longer driving around the towns on Lago d’Iseo but the towns were much sleepier than we anticipated. Being there on a Monday, we discovered that many places were closed so our timing wasn’t the best for really getting a feel for the towns. If you’re headed to Lake Iseo, it’s worth bearing in mind that Mondays are on the quieter side since that may affect your planning.

During our journey from Venice to Milan, Verona was a stop for us en route to our hotel. In fact, we’d considered Verona as our home base for our three extra nights in Northern Italy but decided on Erbusco after discovering L’Albereta. Just hearing about Verona had me daydreaming about a romantic, quaint city but honestly, I really didn’t know what to expect from the city as a whole.

After visiting Verona, I can see how the city warrants a few days to enjoy and explore. In addition to being a great city unto itself, it’s also an incredible home base for anyone wanting to explore nearby cities as well. Lake Garda is a short drive, plus Venice is only about an hour’s drive. Brescia, Padua, and other small towns are fairly close, and there are options for wine tasting nearby for those looking for less trafficked wine areas in Italy (think Prosecco, Amarone & Franciacorta tastings).

Verona is home to a cool medieval old town, with a 1st century Roman Amphitheatre at its center which hosts events and concerts. How did I not know about this going in?! The tale of Romeo and Juliet overshadows the other captivating elements of Verona – a gorgeous, colorful town that brings a very modern twist to a medieval area. The shops near the main square bring high-end flair with a mashup of all of Italy’s most famous designers sharing a common thoroughfare (mostly pedestrianized, to make it easier for lazy window shopping). The main square in Verona is enormous, so spend some time meandering and taking it all in. Being that Verona was a stop for us from Venice to Milan, we had just a couple of hours to take it all in, not nearly long enough to really absorb what Verona has to offer, but long enough to realize that it has plenty for a few nights’ stay. For a drawn-out lunch, find a restaurant along the main square to take in the people watching and beautiful facades.

Sitting just a thirty minute drive from L’Albereta is the town of Bergamo, an easy city for a quick day trip from Erbusco. Scott had been to Bergamo as a child but his memory of it was thin. I had high hopes when it came to Bergamo, and I wasn’t going to be  this-close  to the city and not visit.

So, off we went, zipping down the motorway and making our way to the city of Bergamo. As an aside, if you’re driving be sure to keep cash on you. You’ll have to pay every time you use a motorway based on the distance driven. You’ll collect a ticket each time you  enter  a motorway and then pay each time you exit based on the information on your ticket. No credit cards accepted so be prepared!

Bergamo has two sides to it (well, two elevations, really), but the old town, the Cittá Alta, is the real draw. As you may have figured out by the name, the old city is elevated, so visitors reach the old town on foot or by funicular (a few euros each way), which drops you off in the picturesque old town.

Our experience in Bergamo was mixed, but I don’t want to downplay the beauty of the city. For those that love architecture and the splendor of churches, Bergamo has that in spades. Piazza Duomo is the main square that houses the city’s most famous monuments. The cathedral, bishop’s palace, and baptistry are all steps from each other.

The city also offers wifi throughout the majority of the old town, which is an impressive addition. The mixed part of our experience came from our lunch foray. We were excited for a luxurious drawn out lunch, but didn’t anticipate it being  quite  so drawn out. After waiting an hour and a half for our food, we decided to cut our meal short, and left without ever getting our main courses. We paid for what we had eaten, and felt terrible leaving, which tainted the day a bit (I’ve never  ever  done that before, but it got the point of being ridiculous).

Besides the architecture and medieval feel, Bergamo is famous for one other thing: polenta. Seriously, every restaurant serves up some incarnation of polenta, and that extends to their desserts. To make up for the lack of lunch and my post-lunch guilt, we made it a mission to get a sweet treat for the road. If you’re a dessert lover (hell, even if you’re  not  a dessert lover!), you have to try Bergamo’s famous Polenta e Osei, a cake made to look like polenta. It’s a local specialty and it’s  really, really good  if you’re up for something that’s not skimping on the sugar!

Franciacorta ✧ Wine Tasting with Ricci Curbastro

Italy is famed for its red wines, and many lovers of bubbly are fans of Prosecco that hails from the Veneto region in Northern Italy. Ask people outside of Italy about Franciacorta and you’ll likely be met with blank stares. To be honest, even when we pulled into Erbusco I didn’t know about Franciacorta; I simply knew that we were nestled into a stunning vineyard landscape.

Franciacorta  is a sparkling wine produced in the Lombardy region in a section of the province of Brescia. It’s produced using the same method as champagne (the ‘Traditional Method’) – a different process from Prosecco – and is Italy’s more exclusive, high-end product for sparkling (i.e. if you went to Fashion Week in Milan, you’d likely see this being poured). If you’re curious about the differences between Prosecco and Franciacorta , VinePair gives a great run down for better understanding the variance in production methods. If you’re staying in Brescia like we were (or somewhere nearby between Venice and Milan), a day of wine tasting is a perfect way to spend a day in the region.

Since we were visiting the region on a bit of a whim, we didn’t coordinate tastings in advance. If Franciacorta is on your radar, you  must  book your tastings in advance. Much like is the case when  wine tasting in La Rioja  in Spain, tastings include tours so it’s not a matter of dropping in, taking a sip and buying a bottle that tickles your fancy. Here it’s about showcasing the process and then sampling an array of the wines produced with a new appreciation for the methodology. The Strada del Vino Franciacorta, the  Franciacorta Wine Route , has a huge range of wineries that could be part of a wine tour. Keep in mind that English-speaking tours are fewer and farther between so you’ll want to map those accordingly if your Italian skills are suspect (like mine).

We spent an afternoon tasting at Ricci Curbastro ,  a farm estate set in Capriolo, about 10 minutes’ driving from L’Albereta Hotel. Franciacorta began with about 10 producers initially (Ricci Curbastro being part of the pioneering lot) and has now evolved into 120 producers bottling their own bubbly. The estate houses a museum that’s been curated by the family, showcasing a range of tools and items that have been involved in the evolution of wine making in the region.

We’ve done our fair share of wine tasting in the past few years ( wine tasting on the Peljesac Peninsula in Croatia, wine tasting in La Rioja , wine tasting in the Cape Winelands , and more ), but I’ve never been on a proper champagne tasting and tour. Even if you’re not a huge lover of sparkling wines, learning about the method is pretty spectacular, and we were lucky enough to discover more about the behind-the-scenes production of Franciacorta at Ricci Curbastro. Their 26-hectare family owned estate produces 250,000 bottles per year, about 75% Franciacorta, with the remaining 25% split between a Curtefranca red (a Bordeaux-style blend) and Sebino, a white blend. We finished our tour with a tasting of four wines – three sparkling, plus their red. Sparkling wines are generally not my favorites but at the very least I learned much more about  which  sparkling I prefer, how to better understand brut vs. dry (I mean, do you  really  know what that means when you order it or am I the only one that is a little oblivious with that?), and how to better taste bubbly to really appreciate it.

All in all, I’d call it a sparkling success.

For an unexpected add-on, our journey from Venice to Milan was successful, even more so that we had anticipated. We absolutely adored L’Albereta as a home base and appreciated the quiet luxury of its location. For so many travelers visiting Italy, a short list gets narrowed down to the hotspots for a trip: Rome, Florence (maybe including the broader region of Tuscany), Venice, the Amalfi Coast. No doubt, those areas are all spectacular and have gained fame for a reason, but there’s so much genuine flavor and authenticity to be found by taking the time to visit the smaller towns and second cities that compose this gorgeous country. If anything, this unexpected journey inspired more drives for us in the future; more slow road trips that allow us to explore unhurriedly and absorb all of the beauty held in even the tiniest of corners. For the record, the convertible didn’t hurt.

Anyone else explored around these towns in Northern Italy or tasted along the Franciacorta wine route?

More about Shannon Kircher

Shannon Kircher is the founder and editor of The Wanderlust Effect. Founded in 2009, she has continued to document her international escapes as an expat in Europe and the Caribbean. Additionally, Shannon is the founder of Compass & Vine, a luxury boutique travel design firm, and is the Director of Marketing for the Frangipani Beach Resort. Shannon holds an MSc in Social Policy and Development from the London School of Economics and is a current candidate for WSET Level 3 in Wines & Spirits.

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Your journey includes a delightful 3-hour stop en route with an English-speaking driver and a luxurious air-conditioned Mercedes. Revel in a visit to the enchanting city of Verona, brimming with romantic charm, before continuing on to Milan. Along the way, indulge in a pause at the picturesque town of Sirmione, nestled on the shores of Lake Garda. With a total stopover time of 3 hours included, you'll have ample opportunity to explore these scenic destinations. Your transfer tour ends at your centrally located hotel in Milan, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable travel experience from start to finish

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Private Venice to Milan Transfers via Verona and Lake Garda This exclusive Private Venice to Milan Transfer not only ensures seamless transportation between these two iconic cities but also offers you the luxury of time to immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of one of the many charming Italian towns that dot the route. Delight in the opportunity to pause and explore these picturesque sceneries, each offering its own unique blend of history, culture, and gastronomy. With ample time to indulge your curiosity, we promise you a journey both enriching and convenient. First Stop: Venice to Milan transfer via Verona The most popular city for stopover between Venice and Milan is undoubtedly Verona , with its lovely historical center, the famous Arena and Romeo and Juliet house. In all the above cities, we can set up for you a private walking tour with our local guide: upgrade your tour at the time of booking. Second Stop: Venice to Milan transfer via Lake Garda Traveling between Venice and Milan offers more than just a direct route: it presents an opportunity to discover the allure of Italy's largest lake, Lake Garda , renowned for its picturesque villages and stunning landscapes. Additionally, a popular stopover on this transfer tour is the enchanting town of Sirmione , boasting an impressive castle and a charming city center perfect for leisurely strolls. Your transfer journey ends at your hotel in Milan , ensuring a seamless transition to your accommodation. An additional fee will be applied for transfers to Malpensa airport: you can select the optional MXP drop off when booking the transfer online. Upgrade your Venice to Milan Private Car Transfer Tour Elevate your journey with a private taxi transfer from your Venice hotel to Tronchetto . Or maybe you could opt for a private walking tour in Verona to delve deeper into the city's rich history and culture. Explore all these add-on options and more at the time of booking to customize your experience to your preferences.

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Day Trip to Venice from Milan: What to See with Limited Time

• 1 Can you do a day trip to Venice from Milan?
• 2 Is taking a day trip to Venice from Milan worth it?
• 3.1 Taking the train from Milan to Venice
• 3.2 Driving to Venice from Milan
• 3.3 Tours from Milan to Venice
• 4 Before You Visit Venice
• 5.1 The Sestieri of Venice
• 5.2 Vaporetto
• 5.3 Traghetto
• 5.4 Private water taxis
• 6.1 Wander through the city’s narrow alleys and streets
• 6.2 Cross the Ponte di Rialto on your way to Piazza San Marco
• 6.3 Walk around Piazza San Marco
• 6.4 Climb to the top of the Campanile di San Marco
• 6.5 Walk the Riva degli Schiavoni to pass the Bridge of Sighs
• 6.6 Stop for cicchetti and a spritz from Ai Do Leoni behind the Basilica di San Marco
• 6.7 Admire Teatro La Fenice on your continued walk through the city
• 6.8 Or, enjoy Venice from the water on a gondola ride
• 6.9 Cross the Ponte dell’Accademia to visit the other side of Venice
• 6.10 Visit Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute on your way to Punta Della Dogana
• 6.11 End your day trip to Venice from Milan with an excellent Venetian meal before heading back
• 7 More Restaurant Recommendations for Your Milan to Venice Day Trip
• 8 Tips for Your Day Trip to Venice from Milan
• 9 Day Trip to Venice from Milan: Wrap Up

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When you think of Italy, what comes to your mind?

For me, it’s all about food, culture, and enchanting cities. 

When I moved to the Veneto region from the United States , I spent several days each week taking day trips to Italy’s famous cities. 

Venice, Verona, Milan, Florence, Padua, Chioggia, Bologna…the list goes on and on.

Although Milan is in the neighboring Lombardy region of Italy, it’s easy to take the day from this magical city to the City of Bridges–Venice.

Its stunning canals, architectural masterpieces, and historical traditions have persisted for hundreds of years. There really isn’t another city in the world that’s quite like it.

If you don’t have a lot of time in Italy but still want to take the opportunity to visit the Lagoon City’s major sites, it’s very easy to take a fantastic day trip to Venice from Milan.

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Can you do a day trip to Venice from Milan?

Yes, you can easily take a day trip to Venice from Milan, Italy . The fastest direct train travel times from Milan’s Milano Centrale train station to Venice’s Santa Lucia train station last 2 hours and 27 minutes, while the other high-speed train options last 3 hours and 27 minutes. 

A day trip to Venice is an easy addition to your Italy itinerary if you don’t have enough time to stay overnight, but still want to visit this historic city.

Is taking a day trip to Venice from Milan worth it?

Yes, it’s definitely worthwhile to take a day trip from Milan to Venice. You can see several of Venice’s major highlights on just a day trip to give you a taste of this historic city.

However, I highly recommend you spend at least two days in Venice to truly experience this beautiful city.

How to get to Venice from Milan

There are several forms of transportation you can take to get to Venice from Milan for your one-day trip.

Taking the train from Milan to Venice

Overall, the Italian railway system is an excellent mode of transportation. Almost anywhere in Italy can be reached by train from Venice’s Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia train station!

I suggest taking regional trains for practically all your travels in Italy.

For your convenience, you can purchase your train tickets right inside the Trenitalia or Italo apps that departs right from the Milano Centrale train station in Milan and arrives at Venice’s Santa Lucia station.

Pro Tip : Take a high-speed train ride from Milan to Venice that arrives before 11:30 a.m. to maximize your precious time on this day trip!

Part of the fun is getting there! On this train ride, you’ll pass other splendid sights like Lake Garda and the Italian countryside before arriving at the Venetian lagoon.

Driving to Venice from Milan

If you choose to take a bus into or out of Venice, Piazzale Roma is the bus terminal where local buses, as well as companies such as Flixbus and Italbus, drop off.

However, the fastest direct bus solutions from Milan to Venice take 3 hours and 40 minutes one way, with transport options that surpass 6 hours.

If you’re seriously considering taking a day trip from Milan to Venice, I highly recommend you travel by train to maximize your time in this Italian city instead of going by car or bus.

Tours from Milan to Venice

If you’d rather have everything from transportation to activities scheduled for your day trip from Milan to Venice, there are several action-packed guided day trips planned by professional guides that will organize your Venice day trip travel plans and itinerary.

Before You Visit Venice

This famously walkable city is instituting a visitor city tax! Venice will establish a reservation system to manage the flood of tourists beginning in 2023.

The idea is to charge day-tripping visitors like you on a sliding scale dependent on the season. Before entering the city, you must also confirm your reservation.

The reservation system isn’t yet up and running, but I’ll keep this part updated as more information becomes available.

How to Get Around Venice

The sestieri of venice.

Six different neighborhoods within the central city of Venice are Cannaregio, Castello, Dorsoduro, San Marco, San Polo, and Santa Croce districts.

It’s very easy to walk from one end of Venice to another using bridges connecting all of these small islands. However, there are a few other ways to get around, too.

Although strolling through Venice’s winding streets is an unforgettable experience, there is always a more direct route—on the water.

A ride on a water taxi down Venice’s Grand Canal is an unforgettable experience. You’ll pass beneath the Rialto Bridge and through waterways lined with colorful houses and gondolas, getting a glimpse of Venice as it was meant to be viewed.

Once you grasp the basics, the city’s public Vaporetto system is straightforward like any other mass transit system. 19 distinct lines connect various locations in the city to neighboring islands such as Burano, Murano, and Torcello.

You can discover more about the city’s transportation system, Azienda del Consorzio Trasporti Veneziano (ACTV), and buy tickets on its website.

Take a traghetto boat trip if you only need to get across the Grand Canal from one side to the other, and you’re not near one of the four crossing bridges.

Venetians utilize traghetto gondola services to go from one side of the Grand Canal to the other without using the Vaporetto or walking.

Along the Grand Canal are six different traghetto points: Santa Sofia, Riva del Vin, San Tomà, San Samuele, Santa Maria del Giglio, and Dogana. You’ll have to pay the fare in cash, and they only run throughout the day.

Private water taxis

The primary private water taxi service in Venice is Consorzio Motoscafi Venezia . They have more than 100 boats in their fleet, and each ship can carry up to ten passengers and ten suitcases.

If you know you’ll need their services in advance, you can purchase and pay for your ticket on their website .

Otherwise, they have a 24-hour call center for you to call and make arrangements.

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Your Day Trip to Venice from Milan Itinerary

We’re starting right from the Venezia Santa Lucia train station for this itinerary.

If you can take a direct train from Milan in the morning, you can maximize your time by arriving before Noon at the latest.

That way, you’ll have ample time to walk around the beautiful canal city and explore some of the most important landmarks! 

Wander through the city’s narrow alleys and streets

During the reign of the Venetian Republic, the primary streets were its labyrinth of canals. This car-free city wasn’t built for anything but walking.

The roads we use to roam Venice today were once utilized to transport workers from wealthy homes, everyday citizens, and animals. As a result, they were not designed with order in mind.

Although getting lost in the city is very easy, it’s one of the best parts of being in Venice. As you walk throughout the city, you’ll come across amazing artisan stores, bakeries, beautiful statues, and small monuments and museums that you would not have discovered otherwise.

I believe in the concept so strongly that you’re reading this on The Purposefully Lost *wink*.

Fun Fact: One of the world’s most narrow streets is found here in Venice. Calle Varisco is only 53cm wide, making it one of the most narrow streets in the world.

Cross the Ponte di Rialto on your way to Piazza San Marco

As you make your way to our first ultimate destination, you’ll have to walk across one of the most famous landmarks in Venice–the Rialto Bridge.

The Ponte di Rialto crosses the Grand Canal, connecting two parts of the city. The famous bridge has witnessed some of the most critical events in Venetian history.

While the Ponte dell’Accademia and two other beautiful bridges can be used to cross the Canal, the Ponte di Rialto is the most central and well-known.

Although the original pontoon bridge was built between 1181 and 1182, the bridge’s famous shops were added in the early 1400s, and the famed stone bridge we know today wasn’t finished until 1591.

The Rialto remains one of Venice’s most recognizable monuments today. Cross the Grand Canal from one side of town to the other and enjoy the stunning views from both sides on your way to Piazza San Marco.

Walk around Piazza San Marco

The magnificent Piazza San Marco is one of Italy’s most famous piazzas. It is named after Saint Mark the Evangelist, the Basilica’s patron saint, whose symbol—the winged lion—was used to signify the Republic of Venice.

Located in the heart of Venice’s historical area, San Marco square is bordered by some of the city’s most beautiful structures.

The Piazza is surrounded on three sides by the Procuratie. Its distinctive arcade extended around to one side into the Torre dell’Orologio and the other into the Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana.

The Basilica di San Marco and the Palazzo Ducale (the Doge’s Palace) are on the fourth side.

Piazzetta di San Marco is the area in front of Palazzo Ducale that connects to the central Piazza. On this side of the Piazza, you can observe two columns–Colonna di San Marco.

The winged lion for San Marco can be seen at the top of the left column, whereas the right column showcases a statue of Theodore of Heraclea. Before San Marco, this saint with the crocodile dragon beneath his feet was Venice’s patron saint and emblem.

Since you’re only visiting Venice for the day, you don’t have enough time to explore inside the Basilica di San Marco or the Doge’s Palace and see the rest of Venice. Instead, take a moment to admire these historic buildings before heading to the top of the bell tower.

Climb to the top of the Campanile di San Marco

After you’ve finished taking pictures from the ground level of the Piazza, it’s time to take in the view from the top of Campanile di San Marco!

Every grand cathedral requires a stunning bell tower, and the Campanile di San Marco is no exception. The tower’s construction began in the early 10th century and lasted around 500 years, with many building phases. Despite this effort, the building collapsed in 1902 but was painstakingly rebuilt by 1912.

The Campanile, Venice’s tallest structure, offers fantastic city views! Walk inside to buy a ticket before taking the elevator to the top—one of the advantages of being rebuilt in the 20th century.

Walk the Riva degli Schiavoni to pass the Bridge of Sighs

After you come down from the bell tower, walk along the Grand Canal on the Riva degli Schiavoni to see the Bridge of Sighs.

This waterfront promenade offers breathtaking views of the Canal and the neighborhoods of Dorsoduro, Giudecca, and San Giorgio Maggiore across the Canal.

Once you pass the Doge’s Palace, you’ll find the famed Ponte dei Sospiri standing on Ponte della Paglia.

Built around 1600, the Bridge of Sighs connects the former prisons to the Doge’s Palace across a canal. According to legend, convicts sentenced to death would walk across the bridge between their cell and the execution site, sighing profoundly with each step.

Stop for cicchetti and a spritz from Ai Do Leoni behind the Basilica di San Marco

Once you’ve finished admiring the Bridge of Sighs, you’ll head back through Piazza di San Marco to find an excellent bacaro to stop for a snack.

The word bacaro means “a nice bar” or “wine” in Venetian dialect, and that’s precisely what you’ll find at any of the city’s bacaro restaurants.

Cicchetti are small rounds of bread with assorted toppings like baccalà , salami , gorgonzola with walnuts, parmigiana cheese with jam, and more. And you’ll definitely want to sip on a spritz to go with it!

While it’s true that a lot of the best food in Venice, or any city, is located away from the famous landmarks, Ai Do Leoni is an exception.

This bacaro is hidden away to the side of the Basilica, dishing you delicious cicchetti and spritz while overlooking the monument. This little spot was recommended to me by a Venetian, so it has that seal of approval as well!

Admire Teatro La Fenice on your continued walk through the city

Once you leave Piazza di San Marco, you will continue strolling around the city while passing some famous landmarks, like Teatro La Fenice.

The Teatro La Fenice opera house first opened its doors in the 18th century, only five years before the collapse of the Republic.

Operas by some of the most renowned composers, including Rossini, Bellini, Donizetti, and Verdi, have premiered throughout its history.

Today, it’s regarded as one of the most significant landmarks in the history of opera. The current theater is a replica of the original, which was destroyed by arson in 1996.

If you’re a theater lover like me, take an opportunity to explore the inside on a self-guided audio tour of La Fenice since you won’t have time to see a performance on your day trip to Venice from Milan.

Or, enjoy Venice from the water on a gondola ride

Since the Venetian streets were originally the canals, it’s an incredible experience to see Venice from the water. If taking a gondola ride is on your Venice bucket list , this is your chance!

You can either visit one of the Gondola stands on the Riva degli Schiavoni to find an available gondolier or continue walking through the city to find one stationed on a bridge or in a campo as you walk around the city.

If you want to ensure you have a scheduled opportunity, you can book this Grand Canal by Gondola with Commentary tour in advance.

Cross the Ponte dell’Accademia to visit the other side of Venice

Another famous bridge in Venice is the Ponte dell’Accademia, which connects the Dorsoduro district to the San Marco neighborhood.

Take a minute to enjoy the stunning views from both sides of the bridge and take a ton of photos. My favorite view includes the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute standing tall at the tip of the Canal–which is where you’ll be walking next!

Visit Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute on your way to Punta Della Dogana

The Basilica of Santa Maria Della Salute is a stunning basilica erected across the Grand Canal to rescue Venice from the plague in 1631.

Titian, a celebrated Venetian Renaissance artist, painted the ceiling of this exquisite cathedral dedicated to Our Lady of Health. It depicts Old Testament stories like Abraham and Isaac, Cain and Abel, and David and Goliath. The Basilica is open to the public and free to enter.

If you continue walking beyond the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, Punta della Dogana connects the Grand and Giudecca Canals at the tip of the Dorsoduro district.

It’s one of my favorite instagrammable places in Venice , with stunning panoramic views of the Doge’s Palace, Chiesa di San Giorgio Maggiore, and Guidecca island.

You can also find the Patriarchal Seminary of Venice here and a modern art museum situated in the 17th-century Dogana da Mar customs house.

End your day trip to Venice from Milan with an excellent Venetian meal before heading back

After all this walking, you deserve to relax and sit down for an excellent Venetian meal before you head back to Piazzale Roma to catch your bus or train back to continue the rest of your Milan itinerary .

A few of my favorite Venetian restaurants on your walk from Punta della Dogana to Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia include:

• Osteria ai Carmini
• Trattoria Dona Onesta
• Ai Gondolieri
• Al Vecio Marangon
• Osteria al Cicheto

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More Restaurant Recommendations for Your Milan to Venice Day Trip

Venetian Casual Dining

• 6342 Alla Corte Spaghetteria Ristorante
• Enoteca Al Volto
• Osteria i Compari Venezia
• Osteria Ai Promessi Sposi
• Osteria Ai 4 Feri Stori

Best Bacari for cicchetti

• Bacaro Pane e Vin
• Ai Do Leoni
• Osteria Al Squero
• Bar All’ Arco
• Bacaro Risorto Castello
• ​​Torrefazione Cannaregio – Caffè Artigianale
• ​​sullaluna libreria & bistrot
• A La Vecia Papussa
• Dolce Vita Venezia
• Brunch Cafè
• Gio’s Restaurant & Terrace

Venetian Restaurants for a Great Dinner Out

• Antico Gatoleto
• Ostaria da Rioba
• Vini da Gigio
• Ristorante La Terrazza
• Ristorante Glam
• Ristorante Wistèria

Pasticceria & Gelato

• Vizio Virtù
• Gelatoteca Suso
• Gelateria lo Squero
• Bacaro del Gelato
• Mamafè – Salento Bakery
• Pasticceria Tonolo

Other Fantastic Restaurants in Venice

• 1000 Gourmet Venezia
• Osteria N. 1
• Rosticceria Gislon
• Orient Experience
• Fujiyama – Tea Room Beatrice
• Dragone D’Oriente

Tips for Your Day Trip to Venice from Milan

If you’re looking for additional information, I have a comprehensive guide on the most important things you need to know before visiting Venice . Feel free to check it out!

Here are my top three suggestions to keep in mind when you visit:

Restaurants close after lunch – Most restaurants (and even some small shops) in Venice close in the afternoon. Restaurants often close around 2:30 or 3 p.m. and reopen for dinner at 7 p.m.

This also means that no early dinners are served in Venice. Although a few restaurants are open during this period, you’ll likely have to walk a little to find them. They are often only open to serve tourists.

If you’re hungry before dinnertime, stop in a bacaro for a spritz or glass of prosecco and have some cicchetti to tide you over.

Keep these apps on your phone to assist you in getting about – Citymapper is my go-to tool for learning how to use a new city’s public transportation system.

The free app displays the stations and lines and when, where, and how to go from one destination to another. It works in several of my other favorite destinations worldwide, including New York City , Vienna, and Bologna.

Google Maps is also a must-have app for your phone. When you’re connected to wifi, you can download your Venice map offline to keep it with you even when you’re not connected to the internet. It’s ideal for saving recommendations—like everything in this guide!

Prepare for a lot of walking; Venice was not designed with accessibility in mind – The bridges are really the only way to move around Venice. Because the city is several hundred years old, you won’t find any elevators.

I’ve seen people struggling with suitcases and parents straining to haul strollers up and down bridge stairs, and it’s difficult. And that doesn’t even begin to address the problems that people with various mobility issues and ailments have when touring the city.

Day Trip to Venice from Milan: Wrap Up

Congratulations on covering a ton of ground on this day trip to Venice from Milan! Following this itinerary, you’ll have walked more than 6.5 kilometers, or over 4 miles.

Although it’s a lot of walking, you’re maximizing your time visiting this beautiful, historic city while sticking to your Italy itinerary.

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We are a couple planning to travel from venice to milan malpensa airport T1 on 1st May by train. What is the best way to by tickets online or at the station. What is the Safe site to by online.

Buy tickets from Venezia S. Lucia to Milano Centrale from either https://www.trenitalia.com/en.html or from its sometimes cheaper private competitor https://www.italotreno.it/en - in both cases your tickets are for one specific train departure, and include a mandatory reserved seat.

Buy tickets from Milano Centrale to Malpensa Aeroporto T1 from https://www.malpensaexpress.it/en/ - these tickets are valid for any train departing within the six hours following the purchased train time.

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