Where Locals Go to Escape the Crowds in Milan
These are some of Milan locals' favorite escapes—easy to reach, filled with great food, and appreciated for their local charm.
Living in Milan has its perks—fashion, design, and aperitivo culture—but when the weekend hits, many locals head out in search of fresh air, nature, and slower rhythms. These are some of their favorite escapes—easy to reach, filled with great food, and appreciated for their local charm.
1. Ligurian Coast: Camogli, Sestri Levante, and Finale Ligure
Travel time: 2–2.5 hours
How to get there: Trenitalia trains from Milano Centrale or Cadorna
Why locals love it: Liguria is Milan’s go-to coastal escape. It’s close, scenic, and still home to family-run trattorias and quiet beaches.
Where to go:
- Camogli: A colorful fishing town with hiking access to San Fruttuoso.
- Sestri Levante: Known for its "Bay of Silence" and relaxed atmosphere.
- Finale Ligure: Popular with climbers, bikers, and beachgoers.
What to do:
- Hike the Sentiero Liguria trail along the coast
- Swim at free beaches or rent chairs at a stabilimento
- Browse local markets—Saturday mornings are best
Where to eat:
- Osteria della Bietola – Sestri Levante: No-frills spot for handmade pastas and Ligurian specialties
- Ristorante Da Nicò – Camogli: Great views and trusted seafood classics
- U Titti – Lingueglietta: A local favorite a short drive from the coast, ideal for a Sunday lunch
Tip: Avoid returning to Milan late Sunday—it gets crowded. If you can, travel back Monday morning.
2. Lake Garda: Bardolino, Gargnano, and Limone
Travel time: 1.5–2 hours
How to get there: Trenitalia to Desenzano or Peschiera, then local bus or ferry via Navigazione Laghi
Why locals love it: It’s quieter than Como, more spacious, and ideal for biking, wine tasting, and lakefront walks.
Where to go:
- Bardolino: Wine country and lively lakefront promenade
- Gargnano: Tranquil lemon groves and historic villas
- Limone sul Garda: Cliffside village with new suspended bike path
What to do:
- Ride part of the Garda by Bike trail
- Ferry-hop between towns
- Visit a wine estate like Cantina Zeni in Bardolino
Where to eat:
- Locanda al Cardellino – Bardolino: Simple and seasonal cooking with outdoor seating
- Trattoria San Martino – Gargnano: Cozy, authentic, with fresh lake fish
- Ristorante Gemma – Limone: Well-reviewed, right on the lake
Tip: Stay on the hills above the lake for better views, fresh air, and fewer tourists.
3. Lake Como: Colico, Lezzeno, and Brienno
Travel time: 1–1.5 hours
How to get there: Trenord trains to Como or Varenna, then ferry via Navigazione Laghi – Lake Como
Why locals love it: Locals avoid the tourist triangle and head to quieter towns with real community and beautiful views.
Where to go:
- Colico: Great for windsurfing and easy mountain access
- Lezzeno: Peaceful lakeside with swimming spots
- Brienno: Tiny medieval town perfect for a quiet stay
What to do:
- Swim from the lakeside beaches (Lezzeno has several)
- Walk part of the Greenway del Lago
- Visit Forte di Fuentes for history and panoramic views
Where to eat:
- Crotto del Misto – Lezzeno: Grotto-style lakeside dining
- Trattoria del Porto – Carate Urio: Local meats, lake fish, and a family-run vibe
- El Logasc – Colico: Mountain-view meals, very popular with locals
Tip: Ferries are the easiest and most scenic way to get around the lake. Driving is stressful and parking is limited.
4. The Alps: Valtellina and Val Brembana
Travel time: 2–3 hours
How to get there: Train to Tirano, or drive to Val Brembana
Why locals love it: Cooler air, hiking, hearty food, and no crowds
Where to go:
- Valtellina: Wine, thermal baths, alpine food
- Val Brembana: Close to Bergamo, great hikes and slow villages
- Bormio: Spa town with thermal baths and ski options
What to do:
- Hike to Rifugio Alpe Lago
- Soak in the Bagni Vecchi di Bormio
- Ride the Bernina Express from Tirano if staying longer
Where to eat:
- Osteria al Sole – Chiuro: Home-style mountain food, loved by locals
- Rifugio Laghi Gemelli – Brembana: Worth the hike—book ahead for lunch
- Trattoria Belvedere – Teglio: Known for authentic pizzoccheri
Tip: Bring cash for mountain huts. Learn trail etiquette (say hello, keep dogs leashed, and pack out trash).
Final Advice for a Respectful Trip
- Book ahead: Restaurants and B&Bs fill up fast on weekends.
- Stay longer: Most locals go Friday night to Sunday or even Monday.
- Eat local: Skip big chains. Support trattorie and agriturismi.
- Travel smart: Trains are reliable, but check return times and strike notices.
- Be considerate: Keep noise down, especially in small towns. Use shared spaces like beaches and trails respectfully.
