Milan to Florence: Your 7-Day Itinerary
Known to locals as Bel Paese (beautiful country), Italy boasts sweeping coastal vistas, enchanting rolling hills, and dramatic mountain peaks. Combined with mouth-watering food, world-famous wine, and all the rich history and culture you could ask for, it’s no surprise that Italy is one of Europe’s most popular travel destinations. You’ll be swept away by the romance and beauty of Italy when you plan your 7-day itinerary from Milan to Florence.
DAY 1 – MILAN
Once you’ve arrived and checked into your hotel, it’s time to explore Milan! Take in the sights and sip espresso as you head to Piazza del Duomo. As the fashion capital of the world, Milan is home to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the world’s oldest active shopping mall. Indulge in high-end shopping – or just admire the architecture – as you wander through tempting eateries and upscale designer shops. Afterward, indulge your sweet tooth at Marchesi 1824, a historic pastry shop known for its decadent signature chocolates and classic Milanese Panettone.
How many days should I spend in Milan?
Milan is home to enough excellent dining, interesting attractions, and rich culture to keep you entertained for weeks, but you’ll only need a few days to enjoy the highlights. Stay one night to experience the classic Duomo di Milano and indulge in Milan’s fabulous apertivo. Stay two nights if you’re interested in upscale shopping or exploring the surrounding areas.
For more things to do in Milan, check out our list for more day trips in Milan here.
Day 2 – MILAN / DAY TRIP FROM MILAN
If you’re spending the day in Milan, have your breakfast the Italian way! Enjoy cappuccino and brioche (or “cornetto” in other parts of the country) at a local bakery or neighborhood bar. Today, explore the Bohemian, art-focused Brera District, visit the 15th-century Castello Sforzesco and see Leonardo Di Vinci’s The Last Supper.
This popular attraction is frequently sold out, so book a guided tour for skip-the-line access. For dinner, indulge at legendary Savini, a Milan institution since 1884 that has served delicious Italian fare to the likes of Ava Gardner, Frank Sinatra, and Henry Kissinger. Expect to splurge, but this swanky, classic Milan dining experience is a once-in-a-lifetime treat.
What is the best month to visit Milan?
Milan is worth visiting during any season, but you’ll enjoy the mildest temperatures if you visit during spring or fall. Milan is at its hottest in July and August, while the spring and autumn months bring pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Expect highs between about 65°F and 75°F in both the spring and fall, but be sure to pack your raincoat. Milan’s subtropical climate can mean wet conditions and occasional thunderstorms.
Day 3 – COMO
Have your EuroPass handy as you board the early train to from Milan to Lake Como. You’ll arrive in just 40 minutes, leaving a full day to discover the gorgeous – but often overlooked – city of Como. Situated on the southern tip of the famous lake that shares its name, Como will serve as your home base for the next two days.
After checking into your hotel, begin your day in the town center. Visit Piazza Duomo, where you will find the Duomo di Como along with the Broletto, the former town hall built in 1215. From here, take a relaxing 3-minute stroll to Piazza San Fedele and the beautiful Romanesque Basilica di San Fedele.
After a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, treat yourself to a tour of the opulent Villa Olmo. Built between 1782 and 1787, the villa’s expansive gardens and extravagant Neo-classical architecture are sure to make an impression.
Day 4 – BELLAGIO AND VARENNA
Begin your day with a quick breakfast in Como before boarding the ferry to Bellagio. For a relaxing ride and stunning views, opt for the “slow boat” and enjoy your 2.5-hour journey from the top deck. Otherwise, choose the 45-minute “fast boat” (or hydrofoil) to maximize your time on land.
Considered the Pearl of Lake Como, the world-renowned village of Bellagio is a veritable tourist magnet – and for very good reason! With famous fans like Clark Gable, Al Pacino and more recently, George and Amal Clooney, this magical village has earned its reputation as a glamorous celebrity hotspot. Despite its near-mythical status, Bellagio is actually quite a small town – you’ll be able to experience all of its charm and romance in just a few hours.
Is a day trip to Lake Como from Milan worth it?
Yes! As soon as you arrive in Bellagio, disembark the ferry near the bustling town center. Stroll cobblestoned streets and atmospheric alleyways as you take in breathtaking views of Bellagio and Lake Como. To escape the crowds, wander the quieter streets beyond the town center – but don’t miss Salita Serbelloni, the most famous street in Bellagio with the most entrancing storybook view.
Visit Chiesa San Giacomo (built in the 11th century with a 6th-century altar!) and explore artisan shops for wine tasting and local wares. When you’re ready for lunch, try the authentic local cuisine at Ristorante Mella, which specializes in locally caught, homemade fish and offers a panoramic view of Lake Como.
For more tours of Lake Como, check out our Lake Como boat tours post here.
Bid “Alla Prossima!” to Bellagio as you enjoy a 15-minute ferry ride to Varenna. Here, you’ll enjoy a low-key vibe and a more relaxed pace. You’ll disembark near the aptly named Passaggiata degli Innamorati (Walk of Lovers), arguably the most picturesque promenade in Lake Como. After a romantic stroll, explore Piazza San Giorgio, Chiesa di San Giorgio, and nearby Villa Monastero, a 12th-century Nordic-style monastery, home to a museum and expansive botanical gardens.
Make a Stop in Lida di Varenna on Your Tour of Milan to Florence
Soak up the sun at Lida di Varenna, a small rocky beach where you can rent lounge chairs and go for a dip! If you’re in the mood for something different, explore the spooky side of Lake Como at Castello di Vezio.
Situated on the hills above Varenna, reaching the castle requires a bit of a hike, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes. This Iron Age fortress is home to the quirky yet haunting “ghosts of Vezio castle” – an unofficial art exhibit featuring ghostly plaster sculptures made by tourist models eager to leave a little of themselves behind in Varenna.
When you’re ready to return to your hotel, retrace your steps by ferrying back to Bellagio, where you will transfer ferries and return to Como. Have a bite to eat before turning in for the night. Your Florentine adventure awaits!
Day 5 – FLORENCE
Grab a quick breakfast before boarding an early train back to Milan, where you’ll transfer to a high-speed train. In under two hours, you will arrive in magical, medieval Firenze, so take this time to relax and unwind as you enjoy fairy-tale views of the Italian countryside!
Your stomach will be rumbling when you arrive in the early afternoon, and lucky for you, Florence is home to some of the most delicious food in the world. After checking into your hotel, grab lunch at Al’Antico Vinaio, the famed sandwich shop that serves locally cured meats and artisanal cheeses on freshly baked bread from the restaurant across the street.
You’ve had a busy few days, so today explore the city at your leisure. Slow down and soak in the stunning architecture as you traverse this captivating Renaissance city. Snack your way around the nineteenth-century Mercato Centrale, an indoor food market offering everything from fresh pasta to Florentine meat to creamy gelato.
Is it easy to get a train from Milan to Florence?
With up to 29 direct trains from Milan to Florence each day, you’ll enjoy an easy, convenient and fast transfer between the two cities. Both Italo and Trenitalia offer high-speed trains known for their comfortable carriages and smooth rides. A direct, high-speed train will depart from Milano Centrale and arrive at Firenze Santa Maria Novella Station in under two hours.
Stroll along the beautiful Arno River and pass under the Ponte Vecchio. Built in 1345, this iconic arched bridge has survived everything from floods to bombings during World War II and is now home to an assortment of interesting shops and jewelers.
In the evening, dine at one of Florence’s many tantalizing ristorantes. For classic Tuscan fare in a striking historical setting, reserve a table at Antico Ristorante Paoli. One of the oldest restaurants in Florence, Antico Ristorante Paoli opened its doors in 1827 and is well-known for its illustrious patrons including Giacomo Puccini. Enjoy dramatic vaulted ceilings and original frescoes as you toast to Firenze in this romantic gem.
Is the train ride from Milan to Florence Scenic?
When you book your train from Milan to Florence, you’ll choose between a direct, high-speed train and a slower regional train. While both offer scenic views, regional trains travel through three of Italy’s most picturesque regions: Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany. If scenic views are your priority, opt for a regional train for a relaxing journey full of rolling hills and charming Italian villages.
Day 6: FLORENCE / DAY TRIP FROM FLORENCE
On your second day in Florence, escape the bustling city and embark on a day trip to the incredible Chianti wine region. Book a half-day trip to maximize your time in the city, but wine enthusiasts should opt for a full-day excursion. After a quick breakfast, journey to the heart of Tuscany!
Here you’ll visit rolling vineyards and olive groves, tour historic villas and wine cellars and of course, sample top-rated wines. For an extra touch of Tuscan magic, equestrians and honeymooners alike should consider a wine-inclusive horseback ride through the countryside and cypress trees.
Since most wineries close their doors by 5 p.m., you’ll return to the city by early evening. Enjoy golden hour while you partake in apertivo – Italy’s extremely popular and unbelievably tasty version of Happy Hour. Now refueled, prepare for the uphill climb to Piazzale Michelangelo.
It’s a bit of a hike (or you can catch a bus if needed) and is consistently crowded, but the spectacular sunset view is well worth the effort. Mingle with other travelers, listen to street music, and watch as the sun dips behind the horizon and sets the Tuscan sky ablaze.
What month is best for traveling from Milan to Florence?
Florence is at its busiest – and most expensive – during the high season months between May and September. Boasting blue skies, warm weather, and that idyllic Italian sunshine, the summer months also bring al fresco dining along with a variety of open-air art and music festivals.
If you’d rather avoid the crowds, consider a visit during the autumn shoulder season when you’ll enjoy shorter lines, cooler temperatures, and lower prices. You’ll even find several autumn festivals, including the popular Boccaccesca Food and Wine Festival, which is typically held in mid-October each year.
Day 7: FLORENCE
Today is your last day in the art capital of the world, and you won’t want to leave Florence without experiencing all it has to offer! In order to make the most of your time (and to skip the lines for must-dos like Michelangelo’s David), consider booking a bike or walking tour of the city’s most popular landmarks and attractions.
Afterward, make your way to the Piazza del Duomo. Here you will find Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery of St. John, the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, and of course, the massive and jaw-droppingly beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. The iconic cathedral was completed between 1296 and 1436 and is the fourth-largest cathedral in the world.
On your last evening in Florence, pull out all the stops! For exceptional dining with an unbeatable view, reserve a table at Borgo San Jacopo. Located inside the luxurious Hotel Lungarno, this Michelin-rated restaurant lies along the banks of the Arno River, offering romantic water and city views.
After dinner, head to the hotel’s rooftop for a celebratory cocktail at La Terrazza Rooftop Bar. Enjoy the glorious city lights and scenic views as you toast to Milano, Lago di Como, and Firenze.
Remember: don’t say goodbye, say Ci vediamo!
Ready for Milan to Florence?
In Italy, there’s romance and adventure around every corner! Sip limoncello al fresco, ride horseback through the Tuscan countryside, and stroll charming, cobblestoned streets steeped in history. Ready to discover the unforgettable magic of Italy? Contact me here to plan your very own Italian adventure!
