Table Of Contents
- The Cinque Terre – Liguria
- Rapallo – Liguria
- Sestri Levante – Liguria
- Camogli – Liguria
- Santa Margherita Ligure – Liguria
- Varigotti – Liguria
- Alassio – Liguria
- Lerici – Liguria
- Misano Adriatico – Emilia-Romagna
- Cervia – Emilia-Romagna
- Jesolo – Veneto
- Marina di Pietrasanta – Tuscany
- Menton – France
- What if the sea doesn't work for me?
When the heat comes and you don’t have time for a long vacation, a day trip to the beach can be the ideal solution. But where to go to the beach from Milan without spending hours in line? Fortunately, between Liguria, Emilia Romagna and Tuscany there are several destinations that can be easily reached either by train or by car, with enchanting beaches and villages to discover.
Here is a selection of the 14 most beautiful destinations to enjoy the sea (and more) near Milan, perfect for a stress-free summer getaway.
The Cinque Terre – Liguria
Liguria is the quintessential place to find a beautiful sea near Milan. Among the various Ligurian villages, a tour of the beautiful Cinque Terre is a must : Vernazza, Monterosso, Manarola, Corniglia, and Riomaggiore. These are world-famous tourist destinations for their extraordinary beauty. True jewels between sea and rock. In addition to the sea, the Cinque Terre are also worthwhile for their outstanding architectural cultural offerings.
Not to be missed is the world’s most beautiful trail, the Infinity Trail, which takes you to discover these wonderful places on foot.
Easily reached by train from Milan Central Station, the journey time is about 3 hours (it then depends on which village you choose).
Rapallo – Liguria
As you can see, Liguria is very popular; when talking about the sea near Milan, one cannot help but think of this region. Reachable both by car and train it allows quick day trips or pleasant multi-day stays…
In the Tigullio area, stretching from the promontory of Portofino to Sestri Levante, there are beautiful towns to visit. And Rapallo is one of them. After a nice day, spent on the beach at the Antico Castello sul Mare, you can visit the beauty of the place. Thanks to the cable car-which leaves from Piazzale Solari-you can reach the Sanctuary of Montallegro, built after the apparition of the Madonna to a local farmer. We recommend, then, a nice walk along the Vittorio Veneto promenade, considered the “living room of Rapallo.” You may also decide to dine by candlelight in one of the many restaurants along the waterfront.
Rapallo is two hours from Milan (by train).
Sestri Levante – Liguria
From Milan, in 2 1/2 hours you can reach the famous “city of the two seas,” so dubbed by the writer Hans Christian Andersen. Sestri Levante, in fact, overlooks two bays: that of “Fables” and that of “Silence.” You can relax on the beach or decide to visit this village rich in history and culture. The ancient churches and historic buildings in the center enchant visitors. You will also find the medieval humpback bridge over the Gromolo stream.
Camogli – Liguria
Let’s continue with Liguria and this time let’s talk about Camogli, a typical seaside village known for its small port and colorful buildings on the waterfront. It is a delightful little gem worthy not only for the sea but also for a visit, between the Dragonara Castle or the Basilica Santa Maria Assunta. Among other things, it is perfect for walking to Portofino, in an hour’s walk to the peak of Mount Portofino to enjoy the view of the Gulf of Genoa. In short, an ideal destination that offers everything.
In 2h30 – 3 by train from Milan it can be reached very well. And to see the sea you don’t need to walk far from the station, on the contrary.
Santa Margherita Ligure – Liguria
For those who want to combine relaxation, elegance and the sea, Santa Margherita is the right choice. Manicured beaches, waterfront restaurants and historic villas contribute to the charm of the village. From here you can also reach Portofino on foot or by bus. A great idea for a day trip to the beach with a slightly chic flavor. There is a direct from Milan that takes 2h30.
Varigotti – Liguria
Among the most fascinating beaches near Milan, Varigotti is a rare pearl of Liguria. Its Saracen village with colorful little houses and the beautiful Baia dei Saraceni provide an exotic atmosphere just a few hours from the city. Clear sea, nature and a spectacular view from the Church of San Lorenzo make Varigotti perfect for a picture-postcard day out.
The Malpasso Beach is one of the most beautiful in Liguria.
From Milan, it is about 3h30 by train (with a change in Savona); by car it is about 2h30.
Alassio – Liguria
Historical destination for seaside tourism, perfect for those seeking the sea near Milan, to be reached in a day. Fine sandy beaches, crystal clear sea and the famous Muretto signed by VIPs make Alassio welcoming and lively. Alassio’s Budello is definitely one of the reasons this small town is so beloved: walking the picturesque cobblestone pedestrian alley is a must-do. The center is full of stores, bars and restaurants. But it is also a nice place for a morning swim and a sunset stroll.
Lerici – Liguria
A seaside village overlooking the Gulf of Poets, Lerici is perfect for those seeking a day of sea, culture and enchanting views. The castle overlooking the bay, the hidden little beaches, and the possibility of reaching San Terenzo with a beautiful coastal walk make it special. By car, leaving from Milan, it can be reached in about 2h45.
Misano Adriatico – Emilia-Romagna
From Liguria we move to Emilia-Romagna. In Misano Adriatico you will find huge beaches with all the amenities to spend a relaxing weekend. The little ones, on the other hand, can have fun thanks to the many swimming pools in the establishments and the entertainment on the beach. The promenade allows you to take long walks or bike rides. In the evening, then, you cannot fail to try the delicious piadina romagnola in the center of Misano.
Misano can be reached in about 3 hours by train from Milan. If you want to change regions.
Cervia – Emilia-Romagna
Cervia is one of the most popular seaside resorts on the Riviera Romagnola. Its wide, sandy beaches, calm sea and many well-equipped establishments make it perfect for a relaxing day out. The historic center is pretty, with small restaurants and bars ideal for a break after the sea. Plus, Milano Marittima’s famous Pineta is just a stone’s throw away, ideal for those who want to get wild. A really interesting option for those who are looking for the sea in the day from Milan, with a real holiday atmosphere and perhaps want a change of scenery from the Ligurian Sea.
By train: about 2h50 with a change in Bologna.
Jesolo – Veneto
The Jesolo Lido is one of the most beloved for those who decide to move from Milan. If you like the sea, this place is for you. As many as fifteen kilometers of beach, between the mouths of the Piave and Sile rivers, with long piers on the sea. Aperitifs on the beach, bike rides and beautiful sand sculptures. A place suitable for those who like “saltwater-flavored” fun.
It can be reached by taking the train from Milan Central Station to Venice-Mestre, and then the bus to Jesolo Centro.
Travel time: about 3 hours.
Marina di Pietrasanta – Tuscany
Let’s move on to Versilia. Wide beaches, well-equipped establishments and a kilometer-long promenade: this is Marina di Pietrasanta, perfect for a seaside getaway from Milan in comfort and tranquility. Also an excellent choice for families with children. An aperitif in one of the many waterfront bars is the icing on the cake.
By car it can be reached in about 3h15.
Menton – France
Very far-fetched as proposals, true. We are in another state right albeit close to Italy. We are on the Côte d’Azur, a magical place that is starting to get a little further away, however. By train we are almost 5 hours away, a few hours more by car. But if you are thinking of a weekend getaway, it can fit. It is not really a sea near Milan but a destination to consider along with Nice, Grasse, Antibes or the famous Cannes.
Menton is really very pretty with this colorful little houses along the sea. The beaches are all beautiful here: there are pebble, gravel and sand beaches. For all tastes. It is worth thinking about! Incidentally, in mid-February the town hosts the Festival of Lemons, also called the world-famous Menton Carnival. Parades of floats with original citrus creations, accompanied by fanfares, folk groups and dancers. To consider.
What if the sea doesn’t work for me?
In case you want to splash around somewhere other than the sea, near Milan there are plenty of beautiful lakes or natural pools where you can find refreshment equally, between Como and all it has to offer, Lake Maggiore or Lake Garda, just to give a few examples, you are spoiled for choice.