The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in Milan

If you fancy a spectacular getaway from Milan, a trip 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 the breathtaking panorama of the 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 hike scenic trails, sail between villages and lose yourself in charming lanes.

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

Few cities have the magnetism of Venice. On a day trip from Milan, you can travel along its canals in a gondola, visit the impressive St. Mark's Square and lose yourself in its maze 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, a trip 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 trip will also take you to Lugano in Switzerland, where you can enjoy the contrast between Italian elegance and Swiss Alpine flair.

Milan is the capital of fashion, 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.

As well as shopping, you'll enjoy a day spent browsing elegant boutiques and discovering the latest trends in Italian fashion.

If you're a lover of speed and cars, a trip to Monza is a must-do experience. The city is famous for its Autodromo Nazionale di Monza, one of the most legendary Formula 1 circuits.

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

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

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

Beyond its cosmopolitan life, Milan has green spaces perfect for unwinding and enjoying the outdoors. Parco Sempione, next to the Sforzesco Castle, is a great place to stroll, picnic or just sit and watch the city go by.

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