Where to go to the seaside near Milan?

Those who have always lived in Milan, or spend most of the year there, often feel the need for a short seaside escape to places that can be easily reached in a day or over a weekend. From the Ligurian coastline to the beaches of Emilia-Romagna and a few lakeside gems, northern Italy offers more options than one might expect. Choosing to take a seaside trip near Milan means embracing itineraries that combine nature, culture and relaxation, all without straying too far from the capital of Lombardia.

Liguria: a firm favourite among travellers from Milan

Anyone looking for the nearest seaside escape from Milan will inevitably set their sights on Liguria. This beautiful region offers a wealth of coastal towns, most of which can be reached in just two to three hours by train or car.

The Cinque Terre: a timeless classic

The Cinque Terre (made up of the villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Manarola, Corniglia and Riomaggiore) are renowned for their breathtaking views and atmospheric charm. Now world-famous for their brightly coloured houses perched on dramatic sea cliffs, these villages are linked by frequent regional trains, making them easy to reach. In addition to beaches, they offer scenic hiking routes such as the Blue Trail and the Via dell’Amore, perfect for those who enjoy panoramic walks.

• Distance from Milan: approximately 230 km
• Travel time by car: between 2 hours 45 minutes and 3 hours 30 minutes, depending on traffic and destination
• Travel time by train: around 3 hours, with a change at La Spezia Centrale, where regional trains continue to each of the villages

Sestri Levante: the city of two seas

Roughly two and a half hours from Milan lies Sestri Levante, also known as the “City of two seas” due to its unique geographical layout. The Baia delle Favole, named in honour of the writer Hans Christian Andersen who once stayed there, hosts the town’s marina. On the other side, the Baia del Silenzio captivates with its tranquillity and crystal-clear waters, framed by picturesque, brightly coloured Ligurian houses. The historic centre, with its narrow lanes and artisan shops, is perfect for a leisurely stroll.

• Distance from Milan: approximately 185 km
• Travel time by car: around 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Travel time by train: between 2 hours and 20 minutes and 2 hours and 40 minutes, with direct trains from Milano Centrale or Milano Rogoredo.

Camogli, Rapallo and Arenzano: seaside villages and scenic walks

Camogli’s charm lies in its picturesque little harbour, the churches overlooking the sea and the walking trails that lead to the Portofino promontory, offering breathtaking views of the coastline. Rapallo, in addition to its beaches, features cultural attractions such as the Castle on the Sea and the cable car up to the Sanctuary of Montallegro, from where there are sweeping views over the Gulf of Tigullio. Arenzano, located just 152 km from Milan, is well known for its variety of beaches, both public and equipped, and for the convenience of the “sea trains” which make it easy to reach from the Lombard capital.

Camogli

• Distance from Milan: around 180 km
• Travel time by car: around 2 hours
• Travel time by train: around 2 hours and 30 minutes, with trains from Milano Centrale to Camogli-San Fruttuoso, often with a change at Genova Piazza Principe

Rapallo

• Distance from Milan: around 175 km
• Travel time by car: around 2 hours
• Travel time by train: around 2 hours and 10 minutes, with trains from Milano Centrale to Rapallo, usually with a change at Genova Piazza Principe

Arenzano

• Distance from Milan: around 150 km
• Travel time by car: around 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Travel time by train: around 1 hour and 40 minutes, with direct trains from Milano Centrale to Arenzano

Emilia-Romagna: coastline, beach clubs and warm hospitality

Heading east, Emilia-Romagna offers an excellent option for those in search of well-equipped beach resorts, wide sandy beaches, and family-friendly facilities.

Misano Adriatico: beaches and entertainment

Roughly three hours by train from Milan, Misano Adriatico is well known for its broad beaches complete with all the necessary amenities, children’s play areas, and organised entertainment. Beyond relaxing by the sea, visitors can enjoy a lively evening atmosphere, with plenty of restaurants and venues serving traditional Romagnola cuisine, renowned for specialities like piadina, passatelli, and fresh seafood dishes. Misano is also home to the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, which hosts internationally recognised motorsport events.

• Distance from Milan: approximately 340 km
• Travel time by car: around 3 hours and 14 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.
• Travel time by train: the average journey takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes, with trains covering a distance of 323 km.

French Riviera: an international option

For those looking to cross the border, Menton and nearby destinations such as Cannes and Antibes offer excellent alternatives. The train journey takes around five hours, but for a romantic weekend or one filled with discovery, the French Riviera provides enchanting scenery, golden beaches, Provençal markets and a rich cultural offering.

Menton, known as the “Pearl of France”, is renowned for its gardens and the Lemon Festival. Cannes is celebrated for its film festival and the Croisette, its luxurious seafront promenade. Antibes charms visitors with its medieval old town and the Picasso Museum, housed in the Grimaldi Castle.

Menton

• Distance from Milan: approximately 300 km
• Travel time by car: around 3 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic
• Travel time by train: around 5 hours, with changes in Genoa or Ventimiglia

Cannes

• Distance from Milan: approximately 350 km
• Travel time by car: around 4 hours, subject to traffic conditions
• Travel time by train: around 5 hours and 25 minutes, with changes in Ventimiglia and Nice

Antibes

• Distance from Milan: approximately 340 km
• Travel time by car: around 4 hours, depending on traffic
• Travel time by train: around 7 hours and 52 minutes, with changes in Ventimiglia and Nice

All the best seaside alternatives close to Milan

There’s no need to reach the coast to cool off: lakes and rivers near Milan offer excellent alternatives.

Val Verzasca: the Swiss Maldives

Roughly 125 km from Milan, in the Swiss Canton of Ticino, Val Verzasca is a glacial valley stretching for over 25 km through the Locarno mountains. Renowned for the crystal-clear waters of the Verzasca River, shifting in colour from emerald green to turquoise, it is often compared to the Maldives, although the temperatures are significantly cooler.

The most iconic spot is the village of Lavertezzo, home to the Ponte dei Salti: a double-arched stone bridge dating back to the 17th century, spanning natural rock pools that attract daring swimmers and keen photographers. All around, chestnut woods, hiking trails and hill-clinging hamlets make the valley a haven for those in search of a deeper connection with nature.

Another landmark is the Verzasca Dam, famous for featuring in a bungee jump scene in the James Bond film GoldenEye. Not far from here, the Sentiero dell’Arte (Art Trail) winds through the landscape, punctuated by contemporary art installations set against the Alpine backdrop.

Lake Maggiore and Lake Como: relaxation between mountains and freshwater

Just 60–65 km from Milan, these two Alpine lakes offer equipped beaches, charming villages such as Arona and Varenna, and the chance to enjoy activities like sailing and kayaking. The Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore and the historic villas lining the shores of Lake Como round off the experience, offering a perfect mix of relaxation, sport and nature in a breathtaking setting.

Lake Iseo: art, nature and timeless villages

Nestled between the provinces of Bergamo and Brescia, Lake Iseo is one of the most enchanting destinations in northern Italy. At its centre lies Monte Isola, the largest lake island in Europe, a place where time appears to have stood still. No cars, just narrow lanes to explore on foot or by bicycle, tiny fishing villages, and a long-standing artisan tradition of building boats and fishing nets.

The lake’s shores offer a variety of atmospheres: Iseo is elegant and lively; Sarnico is known for its Liberty-style villas; while Pisogne and Lovere boast historic centres and frescoed churches. Nature lovers will find sanctuary in the Torbiere del Sebino Nature Reserve, a birdwatcher’s paradise, or among the Pyramids of Zone, striking erosional formations just a few kilometres from the water. The ancient Via Valeriana, which runs along the lake’s eastern side, offers unforgettable panoramic views and is ideal for walking or cycling.

Lake Monate: silence and crystal-clear waters

Small and little-known, Lake Monate is a protected natural spring. Motorboats are banned here, making it one of the most suitable and appreciated lakes for swimming in the province of Varese, thanks to its clean waters.

Val Trebbia: river beaches and artistic villages

Located around 110 km from Milan, Val Trebbia offers a perfect blend of unspoilt nature and historical heritage. One of its hidden gems is the Spiaggia della Chiesetta, situated near the medieval village of Brugnello. This river beach enchants visitors with its crystal-clear waters tinged with turquoise hues, often likened to Caribbean landscapes, and makes for an ideal spot for those seeking relaxation in nature.

Towering above the beach, the village of Brugnello sits atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the Trebbia River. Recently restored, this small village has preserved its ancient charm, with stone buildings and narrow alleyways winding between the houses. The Church of Saints Cosmas and Damian, dating back to the 11th century, dominates the village and features a panoramic terrace offering sweeping views of the river’s bends below.

Article translated by Agnese Giardini