The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in Milan

If you fancy a spectacular getaway from Milan, an excursion to the Swiss Alps will take you to dreamlike landscapes, where snow-capped peaks, emerald lakes and picturesque alpine villages look like something out of a postcard.

You can travel on the famous Bernina Express train, one of the most beautiful railway routes in the world, and enjoy breathtaking views of Swiss glaciers and valleys.

Cinque Terre is one of Italy's most picturesque destinations, with its five colourful villages perched above the sea. On this excursion from Milan, you can walk along scenic trails, sail between the villages and lose yourself in their charming narrow streets.

From the tranquillity of Monterosso to the photogenic Riomaggiore, every corner of Cinque Terre is a gem waiting to be discovered.

Few cities have the magnetism of Venice. On a day trip from Milan, you can explore its canals by gondola, visit the impressive St. Mark's Square, and lose yourself in its labyrinth of narrow streets and historic bridges.

Venice is perfect for wandering aimlessly, discovering hidden corners, and enjoying a coffee overlooking the Grand Canal.

If you're looking for picture-postcard scenery, an excursion to Lake Como is a must. This corner of northern Italy is famous for its stately villas, crystal-clear waters and charming villages such as Bellagio, considered the pearl of the lake.

The excursion will also take you to Lugano in Switzerland, where you can enjoy the contrast between Italian elegance and Swiss alpine air.

Milan is the fashion capital, and if you love shopping, a tour of the most exclusive outlets is the perfect plan. You can find discounts on luxury brands such as Gucci, Prada and Armani in shopping centres such as the Serravalle Designer Outlet.

In addition to shopping, you will enjoy a day browsing elegant boutiques and discovering the latest trends in Italian fashion.

If you love speed and cars, a trip to Monza is a must. This city is famous for its Autodromo Nazionale di Monza, one of the most legendary Formula 1 circuits.

But Monza offers much more than just engines: its imposing Villa Reale and the gardens of Monza Park make this destination an ideal place to enjoy the outdoors.

For mountain lovers, an excursion to Mont Blanc is a unique opportunity to touch the sky. From the town of Courmayeur, you can take the Skyway Monte Bianco, a cable car that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps.

You will feel the immensity of the mountain and enjoy a spectacular view of one of Europe's most iconic peaks.

Beyond its cosmopolitan life, Milan has green spaces that are perfect for unwinding and enjoying the outdoors. Parco Sempione, next to Sforzesco Castle, is an ideal place to stroll, have a picnic or simply sit and contemplate the city.

If you are looking for something quieter, the Villa Reale Gardens offer a hidden corner of nature in the heart of the city, with fountains, sculptures and paths surrounded by centuries-old trees.