Milan is often known as Italy’s fashion and business hub, but the city itself is just the starting point for countless adventures nearby. If you’re a budget-conscious traveler and want to explore beautiful Italian towns without breaking the bank, this guide will help you plan the best budget-friendly day trips from Milan under $100. With smart planning, regional trains, and affordable meals, you can enjoy historic streets, stunning lakes, and charming villages, all in a single day.
Why Milan is the Perfect Base for Day Trips
For accurate weather forecasts in Milan and nearby cities, visit Meteo.it.
Milan’s central location in northern Italy makes it the perfect launchpad for exploring nearby cities and towns. Most of the popular destinations are within 1–2 hours by train, which keeps your travel costs low and maximizes your sightseeing time. Whether you’re craving lakeside views, medieval towns, or cultural landmarks, there’s a day trip for every type of traveler.
If you want to explore Italy for 1 week under $1000 budget, you must read our guide.
How to Keep Day Trips Under $100
The Italia.it website offers detailed day trip ideas from Milan, including cultural landmarks and historic cities.
Before diving into the destinations, it’s essential to understand how to make your trips budget-friendly:
- Use Regional Trains: Opt for regional or standard trains instead of high-speed Frecciarossa trains. Regional trains are cheaper and still comfortable.For official train schedules in Italy, check out the Trenitalia website
- Plan Affordable Meals: Grab a quick lunch at local bakeries, pizzerias, or street food spots. One nice sit-down meal is fine, but balance it with lighter, cheaper meals.
- Focus on One Paid Attraction: Limit paid entries to one major attraction per city. Complement it with free walking tours, parks, piazzas, and historic churches.
- Book in Advance: Online booking for trains can save money and guarantee seats.
- Walk When Possible: Many towns are compact and walkable, saving money on taxis or public transport.
Top Budget-Friendly Day Trips from Milan Under $100
1. Lake Como – Bellagio & Varenna
Discover more about Lake Como on the official tourism board site.
Lake Como is one of the top day trips from Milan by train, famous for its sparkling waters, stunning mountain views, and picturesque towns like Bellagio and Varenna. Even on a budget, you can enjoy a Lake Como itinerary under $100 by taking regional trains, using affordable ferries, and exploring free attractions such as lakeside promenades, historic churches, and scenic viewpoints.
For official tourism information on Milan, you can check the YesMilano portal, which provides guides and tips for nearby lakes and towns.
Travel Cost: €10–15 (~$11–$16) round trip by regional train
I caught the early regional train from Milan to Varenna, which was scenic, comfortable, and budget-friendly. Booking tickets online in advance helped me secure a seat and save money.
Travel Tips:
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Take the morning regional train to maximize sightseeing time.
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Book tickets online in advance for cheaper fares and guaranteed seating.
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking through cobbled streets and lakeside promenades.
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Bring a reusable water bottle and light snacks to save small costs.
Food & Snacks: €25–30 (~$27–$33)
For lunch, I enjoyed a fresh panini at a local café in Varenna and gelato by the lakeside in Bellagio. Eating at small, authentic local spots kept the day both affordable and genuine.
Food Tips:
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Look for local bakeries, pizzerias, and street food stalls to save money.
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Try seasonal local specialties for an authentic Italian experience.
Top Attractions in Lake Como:
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Take a scenic ferry ride between Varenna and Bellagio (budget-friendly option).
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Explore Villa Monastero and its beautiful gardens in Varenna.
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Stroll along the lakeside promenade for stunning panoramic views.
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Wander Bellagio’s charming streets filled with cafes, boutiques, and gelaterias.
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Visit free viewpoints and historic churches scattered across the towns.
My Experience:
Visiting Lake Como on a budget was easier than I expected. Planning ahead, taking the regional train, and combining free walking tours with an affordable ferry ride made the day relaxing and enjoyable. Walking through Varenna and Bellagio, stopping at local cafés, and admiring the lake views created a truly Italian experience without overspending.
You can explore traveler recommendations and experiences for Milan day trips on TripAdvisor.
2. Bergamo – Medieval Charm on a Hill
Plan your visit to Bergamo and explore its historic streets and attractions on the official tourism site: visitbergamo.net
Bergamo, just an hour away from Milan by train, is famous for its Città Alta (Upper Town) with cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and stunning hilltop views. This makes it one of the best day trips from Milan under $100. You can explore Bergamo affordably by taking regional trains, walking through historic alleys, and visiting free attractions like public squares and churches.
Travel Cost: €12 (~$13) round trip by regional train
I took an early regional train from Milan to Bergamo, which was comfortable and scenic. Traveling by train saved money and allowed me to enjoy views of the Lombardy countryside.
Travel Tips:
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Take the morning train to maximize sightseeing hours.
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Book tickets online in advance for the best prices and reserved seating.
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Wear comfortable shoes, as Bergamo’s Upper Town is best explored on foot.
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Bring a reusable water bottle and snacks to save on small expenses.
Food & Snacks: €20 (~$22)
I enjoyed lunch at a small local trattoria in Città Alta and grabbed espresso and pastries at a historic café. Eating at traditional spots allowed me to enjoy authentic Italian flavors while staying on budget.
Food Tips:
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Choose local bakeries, pizzerias, or street food vendors to keep costs low.
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Try local specialties like polenta taragna or casoncelli pasta.
Top Attractions in Bergamo:
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Wander through Piazza Vecchia, the heart of Città Alta.
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Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and Cappella Colleoni.
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Take the funicular to San Vigilio Hill for panoramic city views.
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Explore the narrow medieval streets lined with cafes, shops, and historic buildings.
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Enjoy free public gardens and scenic viewpoints around the Upper Town.
My Experience:
Visiting Bergamo on a budget was a delightful surprise. Walking through the Upper Town’s medieval streets, sipping espresso in historic cafés, and enjoying panoramic views from San Vigilio Hill made the day unforgettable. Planning ahead and using regional trains ensured a stress-free, affordable adventure without missing any highlights.
3. Verona – Romance and History
Discover Verona’s historic sites and cultural highlights on the official tourism website: verona-tourism.com
Verona, famous as the setting of Romeo and Juliet, is just 1–2 hours from Milan by regional train. It offers charming historic streets, stunning architecture, and romantic landmarks, making it one of the best day trips from Milan under $100. You can explore Verona affordably by walking through the city center, visiting free attractions, and enjoying local food at budget-friendly cafes.
Travel Cost: €25–35 (~$27–$38) round trip by regional train
I took the early regional train from Milan to Verona, which was comfortable and offered scenic views along the way. Booking tickets online in advance helped me save a few euros and secure a good seat.
Travel Tips:
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Take the morning train to maximize sightseeing hours.
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Book tickets online to get the best fares and reserved seating.
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Wear comfortable shoes, as Verona’s historic center is best explored on foot.
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Bring a reusable water bottle and light snacks for the day.
Food & Snacks: €25–30 (~$27–$33)
I had lunch at a small trattoria near Piazza delle Erbe and tried gelato at a local shop. Eating at budget-friendly cafés allowed me to enjoy authentic Veronese flavors without overspending.
Food Tips:
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Look for local bakeries, pizzerias, or street food stalls.
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Try local specialties like risotto all’Amarone or pastissada de caval.
Top Attractions in Verona:
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Juliet’s House and the iconic Juliet’s Balcony.
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Piazza delle Erbe, the city’s lively historic square.
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Verona Arena, a Roman amphitheater hosting concerts and events.
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Walk through the medieval streets and admire historic architecture.
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Free viewpoints and gardens for scenic photos of the city.
My Experience:
Visiting Verona on a budget was romantic and memorable. Strolling through historic streets, stopping for gelato near Piazza delle Erbe, and visiting Juliet’s Balcony without paying for multiple entries made the day enjoyable and affordable. Using regional trains and walking extensively allowed me to experience the city fully without overspending.
4. Turin (Torino) – Elegant City Exploration
Discover Turin’s historic squares, museums, and local attractions on the official tourism website: turismotorino.org
Turin, known for its Baroque architecture, historic cafes, and rich cultural heritage, is just 1–2 hours from Milan by regional train. It’s an ideal destination for travelers seeking a budget-friendly day trip under $100. You can explore Turin affordably by walking through the city center, visiting free landmarks, and enjoying local cuisine at small cafes.
Travel Cost: €25–30 (~$27–$33) round trip by regional train
I took the early regional train from Milan to Turin, which was comfortable and scenic. Booking tickets online in advance helped me save money and ensured a reserved seat.
Travel Tips:
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Take the morning train to maximize sightseeing hours.
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Book regional train tickets online to get lower fares and guaranteed seating.
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Wear comfortable shoes, as most attractions are within walking distance.
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Bring a reusable water bottle and some light snacks to save on small costs.
Food & Snacks: €25–30 (~$27–$33)
I enjoyed lunch at a local trattoria near Piazza Castello and had a coffee at one of Turin’s historic cafes. Eating at small, local spots kept the day authentic and budget-friendly.
Food Tips:
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Try local specialties like gianduja chocolate, agnolotti pasta, and bicerin (Turin’s famous coffee-chocolate drink).
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Look for bakeries or street food vendors to save money.
Top Attractions in Turin:
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Piazza Castello and its surrounding historic buildings.
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Egyptian Museum, one of the largest collections outside Egypt.
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Walk along Via Roma for shopping and cafes.
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Explore the Royal Palace of Turin and its gardens.
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Free public squares and scenic viewpoints across the city.
My Experience:
Visiting Turin on a budget was elegant and enriching. Walking through historic streets, enjoying coffee at a centuries-old café, and exploring free landmarks made the day memorable. Using regional trains and mixing free attractions with a few paid entries allowed me to experience Turin’s culture, architecture, and cuisine without exceeding my $100 budget.
5. Pavia – Hidden Historical Gem
Explore Pavia’s medieval streets, landmarks, and cultural sites on the official tourism website: visitpavia.it
Pavia, a charming town just 30–40 minutes from Milan by train, is known for its rich history, medieval streets, and stunning landmarks like Certosa di Pavia. It’s a perfect choice for travelers looking for a budget-friendly day trip under $100. You can explore Pavia affordably by walking through the old town, visiting historic churches, and enjoying local cafes.
Travel Cost: €8–10 (~$9–$11) round trip by regional train
I took the early regional train from Milan to Pavia, which was comfortable and economical. Traveling by train made the journey stress-free and offered views of the Lombardy countryside.
Travel Tips:
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Catch the morning train to make the most of your day.
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Book tickets online for better prices and reserved seating.
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking through Pavia’s medieval streets.
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Bring a reusable water bottle and light snacks to save on small costs.
Food & Snacks: €18–22 (~$20–$24)
I enjoyed lunch at a local trattoria and grabbed coffee and pastries at a small café in the old town. Eating at local spots kept the experience authentic and budget-friendly.
Food Tips:
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Try local specialties like risotto alla pavese or panzerotti.
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Look for bakeries and small cafes to save money.
Top Attractions in Pavia:
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Certosa di Pavia Monastery, a stunning Renaissance complex.
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Explore the medieval streets of the historic city center.
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Visit Pavia Cathedral and its peaceful square.
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Walk along the Ticino River and enjoy scenic views.
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Discover small churches, piazzas, and hidden corners rich in history.
My Experience:
Visiting Pavia on a budget was an unexpectedly delightful experience. Walking through its quiet medieval streets, visiting the Certosa monastery, and stopping at small local cafés made the day relaxing and memorable. Planning ahead and using the regional train allowed me to enjoy the charm and history of Pavia without overspending.
6. Monza – Royalty & Racing
Explore Monza’s royal villas, parks, and historic sites on the official tourism website: visitmonza.it
Monza, just 15–20 minutes from Milan by train, is famous for its Formula 1 racetrack, Royal Villa, and expansive Monza Park. It’s a perfect day trip for travelers looking for a mix of history, nature, and motorsport, all on a budget under $100. You can explore Monza affordably by walking through the park, visiting the cathedral, and enjoying the city’s streets without spending much.
Travel Cost: €5–7 (~$6–$8) round trip by regional train
I caught the short regional train from Milan to Monza, which was quick, comfortable, and inexpensive. Traveling by train made the day hassle-free and allowed me to enjoy the city without worrying about parking or driving.
Travel Tips:
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Take the early morning train to maximize sightseeing hours.
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Wear comfortable shoes to walk through Monza Park and the historic streets.
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Bring a reusable water bottle and light snacks to save on small expenses.
Food & Snacks: €20 (~$22)
I had lunch at a local café near the Royal Villa and enjoyed gelato while strolling through Monza Park. Choosing local eateries kept the day budget-friendly while letting me enjoy authentic Italian flavors.
Food Tips:
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Look for local bakeries or street food for a quick and affordable meal.
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Try regional specialties like risotto alla monzese or focaccia.
Top Attractions in Monza:
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Monza Park, one of Europe’s largest walled parks.
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Royal Villa of Monza and its beautiful gardens.
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Monza Cathedral with historic architecture and art.
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Walk along the Formula 1 racetrack area for a glimpse of racing heritage.
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Explore local piazzas, small shops, and cafes in the historic center.
My Experience:
Visiting Monza on a budget was easy and enjoyable. Walking through Monza Park, admiring the Royal Villa, and stopping at small local cafés made the day relaxing and memorable. Using the regional train kept costs low while allowing me to fully explore the city’s attractions and charm without rushing.
7. Cremona – City of Violins
Discover Cremona’s violin heritage, historic squares, and cultural attractions on the official tourism website: visitcremona.it
Cremona, about 1.5 hours from Milan by train, is famous for its violin-making heritage, medieval squares, and historic architecture. It’s an ideal day trip for travelers seeking a mix of music history, charming streets, and cultural experiences on a budget under $100. You can explore Cremona affordably by walking through the old town, visiting museums, and enjoying free attractions such as piazzas and churches.
Travel Cost: €15 (~$16) round trip by regional train
I took a morning regional train from Milan to Cremona. The ride was comfortable, scenic, and cost-effective. Traveling by train allowed me to enjoy the Lombardy countryside without worrying about parking or car rentals.
Travel Tips:
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Take the morning train to maximize sightseeing hours.
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking through medieval streets and piazzas.
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Bring a reusable water bottle and light snacks to save on small expenses.
Food & Snacks: €20–25 (~$22–$27)
I had lunch at a small trattoria in the city center and tried local sweets from a bakery. Eating at traditional local spots kept the day authentic and budget-friendly.
Food Tips:
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Choose local bakeries, pizzerias, or street food vendors to save money.
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Try Cremona’s famous torrone (nougat) for a sweet treat.
Top Attractions in Cremona:
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Torrazzo of Cremona, one of Italy’s tallest bell towers.
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Violin museums and workshops showcasing the city’s musical heritage.
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Piazza del Comune and Piazza Stradivari for a taste of medieval life.
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Cremona Cathedral and other historic churches with beautiful architecture.
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Stroll through narrow streets filled with cafes, shops, and artisan workshops.
My Experience:
Visiting Cremona on a budget was an enriching experience. Walking through the old town, admiring the Torrazzo, and learning about the city’s violin-making history made the day unforgettable. Using regional trains and exploring free attractions allowed me to enjoy the city fully while keeping expenses low, making Cremona a perfect budget-friendly day trip from Milan.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Day Trips
Start Early: Take morning trains from Milan to nearby towns to enjoy full-day sightseeing of lakes, historic streets, and cultural landmarks without rushing.
Pack Light: Carry a small backpack with water, snacks, and essentials for comfortable walking tours of cobbled streets, medieval alleys, and lakesides.
Check Train Schedules: Regional trains may run less often on weekends, so book online in advance to save money and secure a seat for affordable day trips.
Check train schedules, fares, and book tickets for day trips from Milan on the official Trenitalia website: trenitalia.com.
Use Free Attractions: Explore free churches, piazzas, gardens, and scenic viewpoints to enjoy Italian culture and architecture on a budget.
Mix Paid & Free Activities: Combine one or two paid attractions with free walking tours, local markets, and promenades for a rich, budget-friendly Milan day trip experience.
FAQs About Milan Day Trips on a Budget
Q1: Can I really do these trips under $100?
Yes! By using regional trains, eating affordably, and focusing on one paid attraction per destination, all the trips listed above stay under $100.
Q2: How far can I travel from Milan on a $100 budget?
Most destinations within 1–2 hours by train are doable. Cities like Verona, Turin, and Lake Como are accessible and fit within this budget.
Q3: Should I book train tickets in advance?
Yes, especially for popular destinations or weekends. Early booking ensures lower prices and reserved seats.
Q4: Can I combine two destinations in one day under $100?
It’s challenging but possible for very close towns like Como and Varenna, provided you walk or use minimal boat transport.
Q5: Are these trips suitable for families or solo travelers?
Absolutely! These day trips cater to solo travelers, couples, and families looking for affordable, scenic, and culturally rich experiences.
Conclusion
Exploring Italy doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With careful planning, Milan can be your base for amazing day trips under $100. From romantic Verona to scenic Lake Como, historic Bergamo, and elegant Turin, there’s something for every traveler. By focusing on affordable transport, meals, and selective attractions, you can experience the richness of northern Italy without overspending. Pack your camera, hop on a regional train, and discover the beauty that surrounds Milan!
If you plan to visit Florence, don’t miss our complete guide for the top attractions and tips.
Start planning your budget-friendly day trips today and make the most of your time in Milan!