We are flying into Milan and taking the train to Lake Como. Since this will be the only time we are in Milan, would it make sense to try and see some of Milan before catching the train to Lake Como? Is there a bus tour of the city? We will have luggage. Any suggestions or should we not worry about it and just take the first train to Lake Como?
Posted by
94 posts
first you would have to get from the airport to downtown Milan, which is at least 1/2 hour or more away, so by the time you arrive at Milano Centrale, and check your luggage, you'll have enough time to retrieve your luggage and find your train track and get on board.
Posted by
Toledo, Ohio, US
11613 posts
Leave your luggage at the Deposito Bagagli at Milano Centrale, take the Metro to the Duomo and see that area (La Scala and the Galleria are right there), then go back to the station for your luggage and train if you think the bus tour might be more than you want. I am not a bus tour fan because you can't stop where you want.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32212 posts
mag,
It's certainly possible, but embarking on sightseeing after a long and tiring international flight would not be my favourite activity.
As Zoe mentioned, you could leave your baggage at the Deposito Bagagli (ground level as I recall) and then take the Metro to the Duomo. There can sometimes be long queues at the baggage drop, so something to keep in mind.
If you're buying tickets at Milano Centrale for the trip to Varenna, BE SURE to validate prior to boarding the train, or you'll risk hefty fines! You may also want to buy your return tickets from Varenna at the same time, and then validate those on the day of travel.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16893 posts
It sounds like you can choose between a few hours in Milan on this arrival day or making a similar short stop on your travel day toward Padova. I also would choose walking over a bus tour. Peck gourmet deli is another walkable destination in that central area.
Posted by
Reading, PA, USA
1589 posts
It depends on your arrival time in Milan. Last year we flew into Milan and arrived about 10:00 am. We had reservations at about 4:00 pm for the train to Florence. We were able to have lunch, see the Cathedral and Galleria with plenty of time to get our train. You could easily see something else in place of what we did. Just research Milan and make your choice(s). Trains run about every hour to Lake Como and no reservations are required so this gives you flexibility. It just depends on how much you can handle your first day. Me, I like to go full out on arrival and fall into a heavy sleep that first night. Gets my clock readjusted in one day.
Posted by
Brisbane, Australia
7175 posts
I think its worth it - Duomo through Galleria to La Scala - 2 hours or so.
Church of Santa Maria Presso di San Satiro is worth a look for trompe l'oeil painting.