8-Day Milan Road Trip Itinerary: Explore Culture, Design, and Gastronomy

Day 1: Milan Exploration

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Panificio Pattini

Start your day with a delicious Italian breakfast at this local bakery known for its fresh pastries and coffee.
Located just a few blocks from your hotel.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Duomo di Milano

Marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture of Milan's cathedral, the Duomo, and take the elevator to the rooftop for breathtaking views of the city.
A 10-minute walk from the bakery.
EUR15, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Stroll through this beautiful shopping gallery, featuring luxury boutiques and cafes, perfect for window shopping.
Adjacent to the Duomo.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Luini Panzerotti

Savor Milan's famous street food: the panzerotti, at Luini, a beloved local institution.
A 5-minute walk from Galleria.
EUR8, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Sforza Castle

Explore the historic Sforza Castle and its museums, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
About a 15-minute walk from Luini.
EUR10, 2 hours

4:30PM

Wander the Brera District

Discover this chic neighborhood, filled with art galleries, shops, and cafes, ideal for a relaxing stroll.
15-minute walk from Sforza Castle.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Milanese

Enjoy authentic Milanese dishes, such as Risotto alla Milanese, in a traditional setting.
A 10-minute walk from Brera.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Walk in Navigli District

Stroll along the picturesque canals and enjoy the lively atmosphere, perhaps stopping for a gelato.
Taxi or 30-minute walk from dinner.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 2: Lake Como Adventure

Lake Como, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Marchesi

Indulge in exquisite pastries and rich Italian coffee before a day trip to Lake Como.
Take a 20-minute walk from your hotel.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Lake Como

Head towards the stunning Lake Como, where breathtaking landscapes await.
1-hour drive from Milan.
EUR20 (fuel), 1 hour

10:30AM

Boat Tour of Lake Como

Take a scenic boat tour to explore the charming towns of Bellagio and Varenna.
Board the boat from Como town.
EUR25, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Ristorante Silvio

Relish a lakeview lunch featuring fresh local fish and pasta dishes.
In Bellagio, a short walk from the boat dock.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Villa Melzi Gardens Visit

Stroll through the beautiful gardens at Villa Melzi, surrounded by stunning views of the lake.
A 10-minute walk from the restaurant.
EUR6, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax by the Lake

Enjoy some leisure time by the lake, perhaps with a book or a light snack from a local café.
Find a spot along the lakeside.
EUR10 (snack), 1 hour

5:00PM

Drive Back to Milan

Head back to Milan after a refreshing day at the lake.
1-hour drive back to Milan.
EUR20 (fuel), 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Da Giovanni

Experience classic Italian recipes in an unpretentious setting with a warm ambiance.
Located near your hotel.
EUR25, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Bergamo Sightseeing

Bergamo, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Cavour

Start the day with freshly brewed coffee and pastries at this old-world café.
Located near your hotel.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Bergamo

Set off for Bergamo, known for its stunning medieval architecture.
40-minute drive from Milan.
EUR10 (fuel), 40 minutes

9:45AM

Funicular Ride to Città Alta

Ride the funicular to the historic upper town, Città Alta, for a unique perspective of the city.
Board at the lower station in Bergamo.
EUR2, 30 minutes

10:30AM

Explore Piazza Vecchia

Wander around this charming square, a focal point of Bergamo's Città Alta.
A short walk from the funicular exit.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Admire the stunning frescoes and ornately decorated interiors of this 12th-century basilica.
Located near Piazza Vecchia.
EUR5, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria Parietti

Enjoy traditional Bergamasque cuisine, including casoncelli pasta, in this cozy eatery.
A short walk from the basilica.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Accademia Carrara

Discover an impressive collection of Italian masterpieces at this renowned art gallery.
10-minute drive from Trattoria Parietti.
EUR8, 2 hours

4:30PM

Stroll through Parco Suardi

Unwind in this charming park, ideal for some fresh air and relaxation.
A short drive from the gallery.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Drive Back to Milan

Leave Bergamo and return to Milan.
40-minute drive back.
EUR10 (fuel), 40 minutes

6:30PM

Dinner at Osteria della Storia

Enjoy flavorful local dishes with a contemporary twist at this inviting restaurant.
Located near your accommodation.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Verona Highlights

Verona, Italy

7:30AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Rigoletto

Delight in a variety of pastries and local delicacies before heading to Verona.
Take a 15-minute walk from your hotel.
EUR10, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Verona

Travel to the romantic city of Verona, famous for its Shakespearean connections.
1.5-hour drive from Milan.
EUR15 (fuel), 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Juliet's House

Explore the iconic balcony associated with Romeo and Juliet, and take memorable photos.
Short walk from the parking area.
EUR10, 1 hour

11:00AM

Stroll through Piazza delle Erbe

Relax in this picturesque square, lined with cafes and market stalls.
Just around the corner from Juliet's House.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Osteria Verdi

Enjoy delicious pasta dishes and seasonal specialties in this warm, inviting restaurant.
A short walk from Piazza delle Erbe.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Verona Arena

Marvel at the impressive Roman amphitheater, a must-see landmark of Verona.
A leisurely 10-minute walk from the restaurant.
EUR10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Castelvecchio

Visit this historic castle and walk along the stunning bridge overlooking the Adige River.
20-minute walk from the arena.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Giardino Giusti

Wander through this beautiful Renaissance garden, a hidden gem in Verona.
30-minute walk from Castelvecchio.
EUR6, 1 hour

5:00PM

Drive Back to Milan

Return to Milan after soaking in the enchantment of Verona.
1.5-hour drive back.
EUR15 (fuel), 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Da Giacomo

Experience fine dining in one of Milan's prestigious restaurants offering a blend of regional dishes.
A short drive from your hotel.
EUR40, 2 hours
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Day 5: Bologna Food Experience

Bologna, Italy

7:00AM

Breakfast at Pappare

Savor delicious Italian pastries and fresh coffee at this trendy café.
Located near your hotel.
EUR12, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Bologna

Travel to Bologna, renowned for its rich culinary tradition.
2-hour drive from Milan.
EUR20 (fuel), 2 hours

10:00AM

Food Tour in Bologna

Join a guided food tour to discover iconic dishes such as tagliatelle al ragù and local cheeses.
Begin at the central market.
EUR65, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Da Me

Enjoy traditional Bolognese dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
A 15-minute walk from the market.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Basilica di San Petronio

Explore this impressive church, known for its enormous façade and beautiful interior.
15-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Stroll Through Piazza Maggiore

Relax in the heart of Bologna, surrounded by stunning historical buildings.
Just outside the basilica.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Explore the Towers of Bologna

Visit the iconic Two Towers and enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the Torre Asinelli.
A 15-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Al Pappagallo

Experience gourmet Bolognese cuisine in a refined setting.
Located near the towers.
EUR50, 2 hours

8:00PM

Evening Walk to the Porticos

Wander the famous porticos of Bologna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, illuminated at night.
A short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 6: Culinary Delights in Modena

Modena, Italy

7:30AM

Breakfast at Café Pavaglione

Start your day with a local coffee and a delectable pastry to fuel your trip to Modena.
Located in Bologna.
EUR12, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Modena

Head to Modena, famous for its balsamic vinegar and culinary delights.
30-minute drive from Bologna.
EUR5 (fuel), 30 minutes

9:00AM

Visit Acetaia di Giorgio

Take a guided tour of a traditional balsamic vinegar producer and taste some exquisite samples.
Book in advance and follow directions to the farm.
EUR40, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Modena Cathedral

Admire the beautiful Romanesque architecture and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Located in the city center.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Cavallino

Dine in luxury at this Michelin-starred restaurant known for traditional Emilian dishes.
A short walk from the cathedral.
EUR65, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Museo Lamborghini

Explore the history of the iconic Lamborghini brand at this fascinating museum.
15-minute drive from the restaurant.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll through Parco della Risiera

Enjoy a peaceful walk in this historical park, perfect for relaxation after lunch.
10-minute drive from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Drive Back to Bologna

Return to Bologna for the evening.
30-minute drive back.
EUR5 (fuel), 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Trattoria Da Me

Experience the flavors of traditional Emilian cuisine in a charming trattoria.
Located in Bologna.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Parma Culinary Journey

Parma, Italy

7:30AM

Breakfast at Caffè Conti

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with Parma's famous pastries and a cup of espresso.
Located in Bologna.
EUR10, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Parma

Set off for Parma, the city known for its prosciutto and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
1-hour drive from Bologna.
EUR15 (fuel), 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Cathedral of Parma

Explore the impressive cathedral, showcasing unique Romanesque architecture.
Located in the city center.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Tour a Prosciutto Factory

Learn about the production process and taste some of the finest Prosciutto di Parma.
Join a pre-booked tour nearby.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Cocchi

Savor local specialties including pasta dishes and prosciutto in a charming venue.
5-minute walk from the factory.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Galleria Nazionale di Parma

Discover a splendid collection of art in this historic gallery and museum.
A short walk from the restaurant.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll in Parco Ducale

Relax in this beautiful park, ideal for an afternoon stroll among the greenery.
10-minute walk from the gallery.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Drive Back to Milan

Return to Milan after indulging in Parma's culinary delights.
1-hour drive back.
EUR15 (fuel), 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Al Grissino

Conclude your culinary journey in a sophisticated environment with exquisite dishes.
Located near your hotel.
EUR35, 2 hours
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Day 8: Return to Milan

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pavé

Start your day with a fresh pastry and coffee at this beloved Milanese café.
A few minutes' walk from your accommodation.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore the Pinacoteca di Brera

Discover an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art in this renowned gallery.
A short walk from the café.
EUR15, 2 hours

11:00AM

Shopping at Via Montenapoleone

Shop in Milan's fashion district, home to top luxury brands and boutiques.
Walking distance from the gallery.
Variable, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Eataly Milano Smeraldo

Enjoy quality Italian food and fresh produce at this vibrant food market and restaurant.
A 5-minute drive from the shopping area.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper

A pre-booked visit to see this iconic artwork is a perfect finale to your Milan trip.
A short drive from Eataly.
EUR15, 1 hour

3:30PM

Relax at Sempione Park

Unwind in this vast public park, ideal for a peaceful stroll or a picnic in the heart of the city.
5-minute drive from the Last Supper.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia

Celebrate the last evening in Milan with a memorable fine dining experience featuring innovative Italian cuisine.
A short drive from the park.
EUR70, 2 hours

7:30PM

Evening walk through Piazza del Duomo

Wrap up your adventure with a beautiful evening stroll through the heart of Milan's historic center.
Back to the Duomo area.
Free, 1 hour
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