How long does a high-speed train take from Florence to Milan?
The direct high-speed train can get you to Milan in about 1 hour and 40 minutes. The Frecciarossa and Italo lines provide high-speed train services, and if you plan far enough ahead, you can find tickets from 27 EUR. It is highly recommended if you travel by train to book your ticket ahead of time to avoid slower trains or needing to transfer.
Can Milan be a day trip from Florence?
Yes, Milan can be a feasible day trip from Florence, thanks to the efficient high-speed train service. With travel times of around 1 hour and 40 minutes each way, you can have a full day to explore Milan's highlights and return to Florence. Be careful though, you may fall in love with Milan and want to stay for a day or two. Alternatively, hire a private driver with Daytrip and take excursions on your way to Milan - the best of both worlds!
What is the best way to get from Florence to Milan?
The best way to travel from Florence to Milan will depend on whether you prioritize speed, price, or experience? High-speed trains are the fastest, buses are the cheapest, while a private car service is the most convenient and enriching. Pick the way that fits your budget, timeline, and expectations!
What is the cheapest way to go from Florence to Milan?
The cheapest way to travel from Florence to Milan is by bus. While it may take longer than the high-speed train or private driver, buses offer budget-friendly fares. You are paying with your time though! To get the best time-to-money ratio, pick a direct bus.
What is the Milan Pass, and is it worth it?
The Milan Pass offers discounts to various attractions and museums. It also provides full use of public transportation in Milan for a set price based on 24, 48, and 72-hour cards. If you plan to use public transit and visit MilanтАЩs most popular attractions, it is definitely worth the cost!
Are there any dress codes for visiting Milan's attractions?
While there are no strict dress codes for most attractions in Milan, religious sites like churches and cathedrals require you to dress modestly when visiting. Additionally, if you plan to attend a performance at La Scala or visit upscale establishments, smart attire is recommended. Milan is the perfect chance to show off the best of your wardrobe!
Is Milan hilly?
Surprisingly, no! Milan is relatively flat despite being so close to the Alps. Enjoy the wide, flat sidewalks of the downtown, and the closeness of all the frequently visited destinations.
Florence has been the Renaissance dream you knew it would be, and your next stop is Milan! Milan is the perfect addition to your pan-Italian car trip to see where the greatest minds of the Renaissance lived and worked. This northern Italian city has been a huge cultural influence, both within Italy and worldwide. The view out of your window on your ride is stunning any time of the year, and youтАЩre sure to find plenty to do in Milan and on the way.
Upon leaving Florence, you'll start your trip by winding through the Tuscan countryside, characterized by lush vineyards and olive groves. As you go further north on the Italian peninsula, the landscape will gradually change to fertile plains and farmland. As you approach the Apennine Mountains, youтАЩll cross through mountain passes and tunnels with views of rugged peaks and dense forests. The view of the forests is especially beautiful during the autumn months when foliage is ablaze with vibrant hues of red and gold.
Descending from the Apennines, you'll enter the Lombardy region, with its rolling hills and expansive plains. The Lombardy region is in between the Apennine and Alps mountain ranges but is relatively flat. As you get to Milan, the landscape will transform once again, with modern infrastructure and urban sprawl signaling your arrival in this bustling metropolis.
Leave the driving to the experts and enjoy this trip to the fullest by booking your private driver through Daytrip. You will be able to fully enjoy the scenery and the excursions on the way to your destination. Take a private car and youтАЩll arrive in Milan refreshed and ready to explore!
About Milan
Milan is a vibrant metropolis in northern Italy and the main city of the Lombardy region. It boasts a rich influence on the Renaissance, thriving industries, and an array of attractions that draw in millions of visitors a year. Founded by the Celts in the 4th century BC, Milan has evolved into a global hub of fashion, design, finance, and culture. Extending your trip from Florence to Milan will be the highlight of your Italian vacation.
Milan Through the Ages
Milan's history dates back to ancient times when it was inhabited by Celtic tribes before becoming part of the Roman Empire in 222 BC. During the Middle Ages, Milan emerged as a powerful city-state under the Visconti and Sforza families. This wealth and influence brought artists and scholars from all over Europe to help form what would become the Renaissance. Milan also played a pivotal role in Italy's unification in the 19th century and witnessed significant industrialization during the postwar era.
Popular Industries in Milan
Milan took industrialization to heart and became an economic center of commerce for luxury goods, with iconic brands such as Armani, Versace, and Prada calling the city home. It serves as a global fashion capital, hosting prestigious events like Milan Fashion Week. As a global fashion capital, Milan offers unparalleled shopping experiences, from luxury boutiques in the Quadrilatero della Moda (Fashion Quadrangle) to trendy neighborhoods like Brera and Navigli. You can explore designer stores, concept stores, and vintage markets. DonтАЩt get caught up in last seasonтАЩs fashion trends!
Additionally, Milan is a financial powerhouse, housing Italy's stock exchange, and numerous banking institutions. The city's thriving design sector extends beyond fashion, encompassing architecture, furniture, and industrial design.
Reasons to Visit Milan
Milan boasts an impressive cultural heritage. YouтАЩll recognize iconic landmarks such as the Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano), and Leonardo da Vinci's famous mural, "The Last Supper", housed in the Santa Maria delle Grazie church. The city is also home to world-class museums, including the Pinacoteca di Brera and the Museum of the Twentieth Century. Scholars of the Renaissance will appreciate the preserved works of da Vinci and Michaelangelo found all over Milan.
There is always something going on in MilanтАЩs streets. It has a full social calendar year-round, with a diverse array of cultural events, music festivals, and vibrant nightlife venues. From classical concerts at La Scala opera house to trendy bars in the lively Brera district, there's something for everyone to enjoy after dark regardless of their music taste or dress code.
From Florence to Milan: Travel tips
DonтАЩt leave it all up to chance! With a little bit of planning, your trip from Florence to Milan will be an unforgettable part of your vacation. Follow our travel tips from industry experts and, most important of all, enjoy the ride!
Plan out Your Route
Taking just the highways is the fastest way to drive to Milan, but may deprive you of seeing the cute Tuscan villages and breathtaking castles that the backroads offer. Daytrip breaks down the route, so you can see the best sightseeing options, the time it takes to visit each, and when you'll get to Milan.
Stop for Sightseeing
The drive from Florence to Milan brings you through some of Italy's most famous landscapes. The duration of the trip without stopping is 4 hours, so you have plenty of time to fill your day with stops at elegant sites like the Torrechiara Castle or the Rocchetta Mattei Castle.
You may not be arriving in Milan driving a Ferrari, but you can still visit the Ferrari Museum during your transfer! Take photos with your favorite model of Ferrari and learn about the background of this iconic Italian brand.
Part of the Daytrip experience is having control of the kind of vacation you would like without the added logistics of renting a car and driving yourself. Remember that while Daytrip is responsible for your transfer, you will have to make reservations for tours and museum visits on your own! Some attractions sell out ahead of time, so book your stops early! Even if a stop does not require a reservation, make sure it will be open on the day of your trip. Some places may be closed on Mondays or national holidays.
Depart Florence Early
Traffic on the road can be unpredictable, and the last thing you want is to be late for a planned excursion! Leave Florence before 7:00 or after 10:00 to avoid just sitting in rush-hour traffic. While Daytrip drivers are experts at finding detours and are locals to the area, itтАЩs best to air on the side of caution. Buffer time in your schedule for road closures, longer-than-expected toll waits, and a bathroom break.
Leave Room for Souvenirs
Milan is one of the fashion capitals of the world, and the shopping districts have some of the worldтАЩs most well-loved luxury brands offering exclusives not found in other places. If you plan on shopping, make sure you account for that when booking transportation for luggage for the duration of your trip. Maybe a new designer suitcase is in your future?
Get to Know Your Driver
Daytrip drivers are locals, so feel free to ask them about life in Italy during your ride. Maybe you are trying to brush up on your Italian? Our drivers speak both English and the native language, so find out what dishes are a must-try when you get to Milan, and fun anecdotes about living in central Italy.
How to get from Florence to Milan
Due to the popularity of both of these cities, traveling from Florence to Milan is quite straightforward and easy. Are you trying to get to Milan as fast as possible, or would you like to savor the journey?
Florence to Milan by Private Driver with Daytrip
Traveling by car offers flexibility and the opportunity to visit iconic sites between Florence and Milan, like the Monte Sole Cross Historical Park and the Pavia Monastery. The journey covers approximately 185 miles (300 kilometers) and takes around 3 to 4 hours if you are traveling mostly by highways. Drivers can follow the A1 highway northbound, passing through cities like Bologna and Parma before reaching Milan.
Alternatively, you can opt for your driver to take you down the scenic route and take some of the winding side roads to the stops that you booked for the journey. Daytrip is all about putting your vacation transfer in your own hands, so customize it to your unique travel bucket list.
YouтАЩll be glad you left the parallel parking and tight Italian roads to the experts at Daytrip! Parking in Italy can be challenging and expensive, especially in the city centers. The single-car-wide countryside roads are also not for beginners.
Daytrip will get you right to the door of your accommodation and even help you with your bags. Without having to return a rental car, youтАЩll be all set to enjoy Milan hassle-free. DonтАЩt worry about getting around Milan without a car- the main attractions are very close together and the public transportation is excellent.
Florence to Milan by Bus
Traveling from Florence to Milan by bus offers a budget-friendly option with various operators providing daily services. Buses depart from Florence's main bus station, usually taking around 4 to 5 hours to reach Milan. FlixBus and MarinoBus are among the popular bus companies offering this route, providing comfortable coaches with amenities like Wi-Fi and onboard restrooms.
Florence to Milan by Train
Taking the train is the fastest way to travel between Florence and Milan. High-speed trains operated by Trenitalia and Italo depart frequently from Florence's Santa Maria Novella station, reaching Milan's Centrale station in approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. For best results, it is recommended to book your tickets ahead of time and to make sure it is the high-speed direct train service. Remember though, taking the train means missing out on the many excursions you could take with a car.
Florence to Milan by Plane
While both cities have airports, there are no direct flights between Florence and Milan. Instead of dealing with layovers or traveling to another city to catch a direct flight, it's best to skip the airport altogether!
Things to do when you get to Milan
Once youтАЩve finished your drive from Florence to Milan, get ready to experience luxury and grandeur on MilanтАЩs streets. One of the great things about Milan is the main points of interest are mostly within walking distance. But it's still worth looking at the Milan Pass, which is a great way to pay for your public transportation in Milan and get discounts on entry to popular exhibits! Without further ado, here are the best things to do when you get to Milan.
Follow da VinciтАЩs Footsteps in Milan
One of the first things you should plan to see is da VinciтАЩs The Last Supper. Experience one of the world's most famous works of art firsthand at the Santa Maria delle Grazie church. Painted by Leonardo da Vinci in the late 15th century, this masterpiece depicts the biblical scene of the Last Supper with Christ and his disciples. It has captivated audiences for centuries.
Tickets to see The Last Supper sell out months in advance, so the second you figure out your dates in Milan, you need to book tickets. It is housed in a church, and not a museum, so it is necessary to dress modestly. Shoulders, knees, and chests need to be covered for both men and women. There are also multiple measures in place to protect it from further deterioration. For example, no flash photography is allowed and visitors can only stay for 15 minutes.
If you werenтАЩt able to get tickets to The Last Supper, or if you just want more of da Vinci, visit the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology. Explore the life and works of the Renaissance visionary at this interactive museum. It houses a vast collection of da Vinci's innovative designs, including flying machines, military weapons, and anatomical studies. It even has hands-on activities and educational workshops.
Shop in MilanтАЩs Fashion Quadrangle (Quadrilatero della Moda)
Indulge in luxury shopping (or window shopping) along Milan's prestigious fashion district! Quadrilatero della Moda is home to renowned designer boutiques and upscale fashion houses. Prepare your wallet as you explore Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga, and Via Sant'Andrea to discover the latest trends in outfits, handbags, and shoes.
Take a Boat Tour on the Navigli Canals in Milan
Experience Milan from a unique perspective with a scenic boat tour along the Navigli canals. These canals used to be vital to the economic trade of Milan, but now they line beautiful districts of cafes, restaurants, and nightlife. Enjoy sunset views and live music aboard a traditional barge while sipping cocktails and savoring Italian snacks.
Grab a Bite of Milanese Cuisine
Speaking of snacks- as if Milan couldnтАЩt get any more decadent! A trip to Italy is going to involve a lot of eating, and Milan is no exception. Whether you are cruising on the canal, or sitting out on a restaurant patio overlooking the canals, try classic risotto alla milanese (saffron-infused risotto), osso buco (braised veal shanks), and panettone (sweet bread).
Explore Downtown Milan
Many of the main points of interest are located in the downtown Milan area within walking distance of each other. To start, visit MilanтАЩs Cathedral (Duomo di Milano). This iconic Gothic masterpiece has intricate spires, statues, and stunning stained glass windows. Climb to the rooftop terrace for panoramic views of the city!
Next on your itinerary needs to be a visit to the La Scala Opera House (Teatro alla Scala) right around the corner. If you book tickets ahead of time, you may be able to attend a world-class opera, ballet, or classical concert at this historic theater. During the day, take a guided tour to learn about La Scala's history and bask in its luxurious interior.
The next impossible-to-miss downtown landmark is the Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco). Here you can immerse yourself in Milan's history at this imposing medieval fortress. Explore its museums and art collections, including works by Michelangelo and da Vinci (he really is everywhere in Milan!) Relax in the castle's expansive gardens or visit the nearby Parco Sempione for a leisurely walk to round off your day.
When is the best time to visit Milan
Like a good designer outfit, a trip from Florence to Milan is fabulous in every season. The best time to visit Milan depends almost entirely on your interests (and budget).
Spring in Milan
We canтАЩt mention visiting Milan without bringing up Milan Fashion Week. It happens in February and September and is a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts. While many parts of the show are reserved for industry members only, there are events open to the public with tickets required.
Salone del Mobile, in April, is the world's largest furniture fair that attracts designers, architects, and enthusiasts from around the globe. Similar to Milan Fashion Week, many parts of this exhibition are closed to the public, but there are days with public access as long as you reserve a ticket ahead of time.
If youтАЩre visiting around Easter time, Milan celebrates Easter with religious processions in the streets, special church services in grand cathedrals, and festive markets.
Because of these events, Milan is very busy in the spring, and accommodation tends to be expensive and sell out. However, come May, the event crowds have mostly left, the weather is perfect, and the summer crush hasnтАЩt quite started.
Summer in Milan
The Milano Summer Festival and Milano Latin Festival bring the streets to life with outdoor performances and markets full of food and gifts. Summer is the peak season in Europe, and Milan is no exception. July and August have the highest temperatures, reaching a scorching 86 F (30 C).
Autumn in Milan
The Milan Film Festival attracts cinephiles from all over the world with screenings of independent and international films. Milan Fashion Week returns in September for its autumn showcase. Like in spring, the city fills up for the event and prices can skyrocket. Come in October and you'll find the prices lower, the crowds are mostly gone, and the weather perfect for showing off your new fashion finds.
Winter in Milan
Winter brings the La Scala Opera Season, from December to February. Get out of the cold and attend performances at the world-renowned Teatro alla Scala.
And like in any European city, the Christmas markets come out with the snow. Stroll Milan's streets and squares and admire the festive decorations and stalls with traditional food, drinks, and crafts. Many museums and galleries will also host special exhibitions during the winter months, offering indoor cultural experiences away from the chilly weather.
The Rocchetta Mattei is a unique castle with beautiful sculptures and a fusion of Gothic and Moorish architectural styles.┬аA Fusion of Styles┬а
Monte Sole Historical Park
The Regional Park of Monte Sole offers more than just great hiking trails and and stunning views. It also provides an insight into one of WWII's darkest moments.┬аA Place of Remembrance┬а
Ferrari Museum Maranello
Discover the true history behind the prestigious Ferrari brand as you tour the factory and discover the technology behind the beast at the museum in Maranello.┬аThe Story Behind the Legend┬а
Palazzo Ducale
A team of artists was brought in to create one of ItalyтАЩs most decadent pleasure palaces, known locally as тАШDeliziaтАЩ, or тАШDelightтАЩ.┬аPalace of Delights┬а
Torrechiara Castle
Situated on a high hill overlooking the Parma valley lies the Torrechiara Castle. The fortress is one of the best preserved fortifications in the whole region.┬аPremium Parma┬а
Pavia Monastery
One of the largest and most ornate monastic complexes in Italy, this stunning compound was designed by the architects responsible for Milan's cathedral.┬аA Most Marvelous Transition┬а
