I am taking a train in from Milan to spend the day in CT , I'm looking for suggestions as to train route in from Milan. What train station should I arrive at, and does anyone have suggestions for walking tours in CT which would be accessible from train station?
I would strongly reconsider this plan. Milan to Monterosso (main train station in CT) takes three hours one way.
See train schedules here: https://www.trenitalia.com/it.html
See hiking path info here: https://www.parconazionale5terre.it/Esentieri-outdoor.php
What you could do instead--if you cannot stay at least one night--is take a day trip to Lake Como for a natural beauty fix.
I'll vote with valadelphia: for me, it would be too many hours dealing with transport for a day trip.It's not just the getting there and back - which indeed would take 3+ hours each way - it's the getting around when you get there: trains and/or ferries. You'll have to use at least one of them to get from A to B at some point(s) during your day.
I've no personal experience with walking tours but do be aware that if they involve the popular trail route between Monterosso, Vernazza and Corniglia, it's not what I'd call a 'walk.' The terrain is steep - both up and down - and the way involves a lot of steps and rough ground. Park passes and appropriate footwear are mandatory. The villages themselves are so small that I'm guessing most visitors just explore on their own. If you decide to go ahead with this day trip, you might want to see what's available on Tours By Locals for guided exploration from starting points around the CT.
Agree with the others. It is not a day trip. And the trains are packed and standing room only, if you can get on. A couple in our group mentioned not being able to get on a train in Manarola for over an hour.