Traveling from Milan to Venice is one of the most beautiful trips in Italy. Whatever you're looking for - an exceptional fashion house, an exceptional historical city, or peaceful nature - there is a location and trip for you that blends culture and beauty.
In this guide, we'll share the best stops, highlights on what to eat, and practical tips for making your trip smooth and unforgettable.
Discovering Milan Before Heading East
Before you travel east to Venice, it's a good idea to experience the combination of Milan's modern energy with its historic charm.
Visit the Duomo di Milano to start your day. The cathedral is known as one of the most beautiful in Europe, and once you've made the climb, the views from the rooftop terraces are breathtaking and provide a way to see the city from above with the Gothic spires reaching for the sky.
Make sure to walk a few steps to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II with its intricate mosaics and cafés, evoking the luxuries of the past.
From there, make your way to see Santa Maria delle Grazie and its masterpiece, The Last Supper, by Leonardo da Vinci. Timed tickets can sell out weeks before, so be sure to reserve early.
And of course, as you are preparing your travel documents, it's always a good idea to book your Schengen visa appointments early. Calling ahead and getting your papers confirmed is always good.
Charming Stops along the road
The journey from Milan to Venice has several options for you to stop along the way, explore, and see a less touristy side of northern Italy. Here are highlights:
1. Bergamo
Located a short drive or a train ride from Milan, Bergamo is a medieval treasure. At the heart of the town is a gorgeous walled upper town, Città Alta, full of cobblestone streets, inviting bakeries, and stunning vantage points. Take the historic funicular up the hill to the top for even better views sweeping over the towns and winding hills before you start to explore and wander the peaceful roads of the upper town.
2. Franciacorta Wine Region
If you are a fan of Italian sparkling wine, Franciacorta will be an experience. Rolling vineyards, boutique wineries, and traditional countryside farmhouses and villas make this region a perfect spot to spend a lazy afternoon. Many of the tasting rooms are set up to serve you some small plates featuring local cheeses, salami, and olives. It's a lovely way to be introduced to the flavors of the area.
3. Verona
Verona, known as the home of the Roman amphitheater and the birthplace of Romeo and Juliet, is a delightful stopover. Stroll over the Ponte Pietra, visit the historical piazzas, or simply sit at an outdoor café and absorb the city's lively atmosphere.
As you wander shop to shop or browse the lively outdoor market, you may run across a local artisan who sells perfumes and scented oils. You have an excellent opportunity to have fun and discover a delicious fragrance that embodies your experience in Italy.
Arriving in Venice
As you arrive in Venice, you have now entered a living work of art. The canals, bridges, and historic Venetian architecture create a unique experience from the moment of your arrival.
Here are just a few highlights to take in:
1. St. Mark's Square
You start at the Piazza San Marco, where St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace can be found. This square has an ambiance unlike any in the world. You walk along as classical music floats through the air, history glimmers in the architecture, and people from every corner of the globe are creating memories.
2. Rialto Bridge
Taking a vaporetto (public water bus) gives visitors a great chance to see the palaces, their reflections on the water, and activity along the canal. It is one of the best ways to soak in the feel of Venice.
If you are documenting your journey in Italy online, you can take the opportunity to use the profile picture site to turn your favorite travel photo into a clean and professional-looking profile picture for your blog or social media, or just to share with your friends.
3. Ride the Vaporetto on the Grand Canal
The vaporetto is the public government water bus in Venice. It is the most picturesque and efficient way to get around.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and early autumn are the best times to visit, as the temperatures are mild, the crowds are smaller, and the landscape is vivid-perfect for photography, outdoor events, and casual exploration.
In summary
Traveling from Milan to Venice is much more than a journey from one globally known city to another. From Milan's famous shopping streets and historical artwork to Mediterranean villages and even vineyards along the way, and finally the Provence of canals that Venice has to offer, you'll be taken on a journey that is filled with culture, scenic views, and sensory experiences.
So get excited, make your itinerary, book your tickets for your Schengen visa appointment, get your profile picture maker and jam together some amazing pictures, and possibly eat some pasta in preparation.
