Embark on a dynamic 6-day Milanese adventure, beginning with an unforgettable day trip to Zermatt, Switzerland, on day one. This itinerary perfectly blends stunning nature with cultural exploration, featuring picturesque visits to Lake Como and Lugano. Enjoy a moderate pace discovering Milan's vibrant cultural sites, local markets, and relaxing cafes, utilizing a mix of walking and public transport.

Arrive at Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), clear immigration, and take a Malpensa Express train or airport bus to Milan Centrale station.
Then transfer to your hotel.
Malpensa Express train to Milano Centrale (approx. 50 mins, EUR 13 per person). Alternatively, bus services are available.
Check into your hotel and take some time to settle in before starting your Milan exploration.
Visit the magnificent Duomo di Milano, Italy’s largest church and one of the world's largest.
Explore its interior and the surrounding vibrant Piazza del Duomo.
Book tickets online in advance to climb to the Duomo terraces for panoramic views. Check for specific entry requirements.
Stroll through Italy's oldest active shopping gallery, an architectural marvel with luxury boutiques and historic cafes.
Enjoy an authentic Italian dinner in the charming and artistic Brera District, known for its cobbled streets and elegant ambiance.
Easily accessible by walking or short metro ride from Duomo area.
Embark on an early morning train journey from Milan to Zermatt, Switzerland.
This trip involves several changes (e.g., Milan to Brig, Brig to Zermatt via scenic cogwheel train).
Book Swiss Pass or point-to-point tickets in advance for best prices. The journey itself is a scenic experience.
Spend the day exploring the car-free village of Zermatt.
Take the Gornergrat Bahn cogwheel train for breathtaking panoramic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding glaciers. Enjoy a walk, visit a local shop, or have lunch with a view.
Dress in layers, as mountain weather can change quickly. Gornergrat Bahn tickets can be purchased at the station.
Take the train back from Zermatt to Milan, enjoying the evening scenery on your journey.
Have a relaxed late dinner near your hotel after a long day of travel and sightseeing.
Take a direct train from Milan Centrale to Varenna-Esino, a picturesque village on Lake Como known for its colorful houses and serene waterfront.
Trains run frequently. Purchase tickets at the station or online.
From Varenna, take a short ferry ride across Lake Como to Bellagio, often called the 'Pearl of Lake Como.
' Explore its charming streets, artisan shops, and enjoy the stunning lake views.
Ferry schedules are seasonal; confirm timings locally. Consider visiting Villa Melzi Gardens.
Savor a delicious Italian lunch at a lakeside restaurant in Bellagio, enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Take a ferry back to Varenna, then a train from Varenna-Esino to Lugano, Switzerland.
The journey involves a change, often in Como or Monza.
International train tickets should be purchased in advance for better rates.
Discover Lugano, a beautiful city in Switzerland's Italian-speaking Ticino region.
Stroll along Lake Lugano, explore the Parco Ciani, and visit the charming old town.
Take a direct train from Lugano back to Milan Centrale.
Explore the Sforzesco Castle, a historical fortress housing several museums and art collections.
Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the adjacent Parco Sempione.
The castle grounds are free to enter, but museums require tickets. Parco Sempione offers great views of Arco della Pace.
Visit one of Milan's most important art galleries, the Pinacoteca di Brera, home to masterpieces by Italian masters like Caravaggio and Raphael, housed in a beautiful former monastery.
Enjoy lunch at a cozy restaurant in the Brera district after your museum visit.
Visit the iconic Teatro alla Scala opera house.
Explore its museum and admire the legendary auditorium (subject to rehearsal schedules).
Check performance schedules; museum tours are available. Book tickets in advance.
Experience the traditional Milanese aperitivo.
Enjoy a drink with complimentary snacks, a cherished local custom.
Enjoy a farewell dinner in Milan, savoring local cuisine.
Discover Milan's Quadrilatero della Moda (Fashion District), home to high-end designer boutiques along streets like Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga.
Explore the modern side of Milan at Piazza Gae Aulenti, surrounded by futuristic skyscrapers and impressive architecture.
Visit the Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest) nearby.
Enjoy lunch in the modern Porta Nuova district, offering a variety of contemporary dining options.
Spend the afternoon relaxing, perhaps visiting a cafe, or doing some last-minute souvenir shopping in the city center.
Enjoy your last dinner in Milan, perhaps trying a restaurant in a neighborhood you haven't explored yet.
Explore the historic Sforzesco Castle, one of Milan's most iconic landmarks.
Discover its museums, art collections, and courtyards, offering a deep dive into Milanese and Lombard history.
Admission to the castle grounds is free, but museums inside require a ticket. Check for temporary exhibitions.
Enjoy a leisurely walk through Parco Sempione, located directly behind Sforzesco Castle.
This large urban park is perfect for a relaxing breath of fresh air and offers scenic views.
Walk towards the Arch of Peace for a classic photo opportunity.
Indulge in a final delicious Milanese meal at a local trattoria near Parco Sempione or the Brera district before heading to the airport.
Try a classic Risotto alla Milanese or Cotoletta for a memorable last taste of local cuisine.
Travel from Milan city center to Milan Malpensa Airport (MPX) for your departure.
The Malpensa Express train departs from Cadorna and Centrale stations, taking approximately 30-50 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at the station or online.
This 6-day itinerary for Milan, Italy can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.