3-Day Family-Friendly Rail Trip: Milan, Lake Como & Venice on a Budget

Day 1: Explore Milan

Milan, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Panificio Pattini

Start your day with delicious pastries and fresh coffee at this local bakery, a perfect introduction to the Milanese breakfast culture.
Walk to Duomo di Milano after breakfast.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Duomo di Milano

Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of Milan's iconic cathedral, and if you're up for it, take the stairs to the rooftop for panoramic city views.
Walk to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

This impressive shopping gallery offers a great atmosphere, and you might catch a street artist or musician along the way.
Walk to Castello Sforzesco.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Luini Panzerotti

Indulge in a traditional Milanese snack – panzerotti; it's a budget-friendly eatery loved by locals.
Walk to Castello Sforzesco.
EUR8, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Castello Sforzesco

Explore this historical castle and its surrounding parks, a perfect place for kids to run about and families to relax.
Walk to Santa Maria delle Grazie.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

See The Last Supper (Santa Maria delle Grazie)

Book in advance to see Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, but do check availability as tickets can sell out quickly.
Walk back to the train station.
EUR15, 1 hour

4:30PM

Dinner at Trattoria Da Pino

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at this family-friendly trattoria that won't break the bank.
Head to Milano Centrale for your train to Varenna.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Train to Varenna, Lake Como

Enjoy the scenic ride as you head toward the beautiful Lake Como, a much-needed retreat from the bustling city.
Arrive at Varenna and check in at your accommodation.
EUR9, 1 hour
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Day 2: Relax at Lake Como

Varenna, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Centrale

Enjoy a casual breakfast with lake views at this charming café, offering pastries and freshly brewed coffee.
Walk to the ferry terminal.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ferry ride to Bellagio

Take a short and scenic ferry ride across Lake Como to the picturesque town of Bellagio, known as the 'Pearl of the Lake.'
Explore Bellagio's walkable streets.
EUR6, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Bellagio

Wander through charming alleys, visit shops selling local crafts, and revel in the stunning lake views.
Enjoy walking the lakeside promenades.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria San Giacomo

Savor traditional Italian dishes at this family-friendly establishment known for its delicious pasta and local flavors.
Return ferry to Varenna.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Villa Monastero

Explore the beautiful gardens and historic villa that offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Italy's past.
Walk around the grounds.
EUR6, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax by the Lake

Spend some leisure time by the lakeshore, letting the kids play while you enjoy the breathtaking view.
Walk to your accommodation.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Il Caminetto

Unwind with a delightful dinner featuring regional delicacies at this cozy place, ideal for families.
Prepare to travel back to Milan.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Train back to Milan

Head back to Milan for an overnight stay and rest for your trip to Venice tomorrow.
Get to your Milan accommodation and settle in.
EUR9, 1 hour
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Day 3: Day Trip to Venice

Venice, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel in Milan

Fuel up with a simple breakfast at your hotel before starting your exciting day trip to Venice.
Head to Milano Centrale for the train.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Venice

Take the train from Milan to Venice, which will whisk you away to one of the world's most famous cities in about 2.5 hours.
Arrive at Santa Lucia train station.
EUR28, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Exploring St. Mark's Square

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of St. Mark’s Square, home to the stunning Basilica and the Campanile.
Walk to the Basilica.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Osteria Alla Staffa

This quaint osteria offers a delightful range of pasta dishes that won’t stretch your budget.
Stroll through the narrow streets after lunch.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Gondola Ride

Experience Venice’s iconic gondola ride, creating memories amidst the beautiful canals (consider sharing with another family to save money!).
Head towards the Canal area.
EUR80 (for 4 people, can share), 30 minutes

4:00PM

Visit Rialto Bridge

Walk over the famous Rialto Bridge, where you can also explore the nearby market for souvenirs.
Move towards the nearby shops.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Gelato Break

Indulge in authentic Italian gelato from a local shop, an essential experience while in Venice.
Prepare to head back to train station.
EUR5, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Train back to Milan

After a day filled with adventure, board the train back to Milan and reflect on the beautiful experiences.
Arrive at your hotel in Milan.
EUR28, 2.5 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Pizzeria Spontini

Conclude your Italian journey with a casual pizza dinner at a well-known spot famous for its crispy, thick-crust pizza.
Walk from the train station to the pizzeria.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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