Your trip from Paris to Milan will take you approximately 500 miles (800 km). At about 8.5 hours nonstop, it is a full day of driving, so make sure to break up the driving with some pit stops in the beautiful French countryside.
After departing Paris, you will want to make your first stop in Auxerre about two hours into your trip. Auxerre is an ancient city along some of the earliest roads through Europe. Maybe some of these ancient travelers were also going from Paris to Milan.
Another hour south of Auxerre, stop by the Vezelay Abbey to see another site that medieval pilgrims wanted to see because it is said to host relics of Mary Magdalene. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its importance to medieval Christian tradition.
As you make your way to Milan, enjoy the view of the French countryside and the mountains of northern Italy. Thanks to Daytrip, you won’t need to return a rental car or concern yourself with on-street parking in one of Italy’s oldest cities.
About Milan
Milan has played an important role in shaping Italian and broader European history, religion, and style. Look at a map, and you’ll see how its location in the north of the peninsula helped to bridge Italian culture to the rest of Europe. After you’ve gone from Paris to Milan, you’ll be able to add to the discussion on which city wins the battle for being the fashion capital of Europe.
### Milan’s rise to importance
Milan was first inhabited by Celtic tribes and became part of the Roman Empire in 222 BC. In the Middle Ages, Milan became a powerful city-state while ruled by the Visconti and Sforza families. Artists and the educated classes flocked to Milan from across Europe and Italy, drawn in by its wealth.
This migration of great minds brought on the Renaissance as ideas spread across Europe and other parts of the world. Renaissance lovers come to Milan every year to admire Catholic landmarks like the Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral) and museums that highlight the best that the Renaissance had to offer.
### Milan’s fashion industry
As Italy unified in the 19th century, Milan became a center of industrialization, commerce, and Italian identity. Like Paris, Milan is also at the heart of fashion. Milan’s long history as a hub for artisans and Italy’s elite means it should come as no surprise that it is home to many worldwide fashion brands. You’ll recognize iconic brands such as Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, Prada, and Armani as you walk around Quadrilatero della Moda (Fashion Quadrangle) and trendy neighborhoods like Brera and Navigli.
From Paris to Milan: travel tips
It’s almost time to get on the road and make your trip from Paris to Milan! But first, follow these tips to get the most out of your experience.
Leave Paris early in the morning
You have a long distance to travel, so get a good night’s sleep and prepare for an early morning. This will help you beat traffic and also anticipate any slowdowns along your route to Milan. To streamline your morning, pack your bags and lay out your travel outfit the night before so you can be quickly out the door. Put items that you’ll want for the car ride (toys for the kids, water bottles, and cameras, for example) in a separate bag so you won’t have to stop and rummage around in the trunk. Since you won’t have to drive, a little nap in the car is entirely possible!
### Map out your route ahead of time
You can leave the driving to the experts, but check out the route and the stops you’ll make between Paris and Milan before getting on the road. Some excursions require an extra booking (outside of Daytrip) ahead of time, and others may open later in the day. A little bit of planning will go a long way to prevent any disappointments.
How to get from Paris to Milan
There are plenty of options for traveling from Paris to Milan, depending on your budget and time constraints. Choose what fits your needs from the options below.
From Paris to Milan via private driver with Daytrip
Hiring a private driver to take your family from Paris to Milan offers flexibility and the opportunity to see other destinations during the drive. Expect the drive to take 8.5 hours nonstop, but with plenty of places to see in between, you’ll definitely want to add a stop or two.
Enjoy views of the French and Italian countryside while making stops at impressive feats of architecture like Fort Bard or the Palace of Fontainebleau.
Upon arriving in Milan, your driver will get your right to the door of your accommodation and even help you with your luggage. After a long day of travel, you’ll be glad you don’t have to worry about returning a rental car! Sedan trips for up to three people start around $1,722 (€1,586) or $574 (€529) per person. Meanwhile, for a group of 7 in a van, it comes down to about $323 (€298) per person!
### From Paris to Milan via bus
For budget travelers, taking a bus from Paris to Milan by bus is a cheap option, and the journey typically takes around 12 to 14 hours to cover the 500-mile (800 km) distance. Buses depart from all of Paris’ major bus terminals and start at $32.50 (€30).
### From Paris to Milan via train
Traveling by train from Paris to Milan is a convenient and efficient option for many. High-speed trains operated by TGV Lyria and Thello connect Paris to Milan, with journey times averaging around 7 hours for high-speed trains. Thello has overnight sleeper car services for those who want to go to Milan but not lose a day to travel. Prices start at about $21.70 (€20) for slower, cheaper trains with several connections or $65 (€60) for direct trains.
### From Paris to Milan via plane
A flight from Paris to Milan is the fastest route, and prices start at $65 (€60) per passenger before adding luggage. Flight durations typically range from 1.5 to 2 hours, making it ideal for travelers with limited time.
Things to do when you get to Milan
Since the journey from Paris to Milan takes an entire day, definitely rest up overnight before hitting the main attractions. Good thing you sprang for the private driver and don’t have to worry about returning a rental car or transporting luggage from the airport!
For starters, you’ll want to purchase the Milan Pass. This card for tourists covers public transportation costs within Milan and offers discounts on popular exhibits and museums! If you plan to visit multiple sites, it is worth the cost. Once you’ve unpacked from your drive from Paris to Milan, make your way to these top places:
### See Da Vinci’s legacy in Milan
Make it a priority to see da Vinci’s renowned masterpiece, The Last Supper, at the Santa Maria delle Grazie church. Because of its popularity, make sure to book tickets in advance.
Maybe you couldn’t get tickets to The Last Supper, or maybe you want to learn more about da Vinci. In that case, we recommend visiting the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology. This interactive museum covers da Vinci’s many disciplines, including anatomy, engineering, and art.
### Ride on the Navigli Canals in Milan
A scenic boat ride along the Navigli canals will take you through beautiful districts of coffee shops, restaurants, and nightclubs. Sip your cocktails and enjoy Italian snacks while enjoying sunset views and live music.
### Hit the major sites in downtown Milan
Milan is quite compact, so visiting the major historical and religious sites is relatively easy. Start off downtown and visit theDuomo di Milano. This cathedral is in the classic Gothic style and is admired for its detailed spires, stained glass windows, and many statues. From the rooftop terrace, you can admire Milan from new heights!
Just around the corner is the Teatro alla Scala (La Scala Opera House). During the day, you can do a guided tour of the interior, or if you booked tickets far enough in advance, attend a show in the evening.
Last but not least is the Castello Sforzesco (Sforza Castle). This medieval fortress has several museums and art collections, including works by da Vinci and Michelangelo. It also has large gardens to admire and relax in.
When is the best time to visit Milan
Like a classic designer outfit, a visit from Paris to Milan is fabulous in every season. Most Italian cities have a strong summer sun and heat (around 87°F/30.5°C), but this is also the most popular time of year to visit. If you’d like slightly smaller crowds and more mild weather, time your visit for the spring or autumn (temps around 65°F/18°C).
Milan Fashion Week is a bi-annual event in the spring and fall. Although much of the show is for industry members only, a few events are open to the public. Easter is another popular time to visit, with special religious services in Milan’s Catholic cathedrals and street markets.
Choosing between flying and taking the train from Paris to Milan depends on factors such as personal preferences, time constraints, and environmental concerns. While flying may be quicker, taking the train offers scenic views and reduces your carbon footprint. Flights start around $65 (€60), and trains start around $21.70 (€20); however the value of your vacation time is another consideration.
It is best to dress modestly when visiting Milan’s major attractions, like churches, cathedrals, and performances at La Scala. All visitors should have their shoulders and knees covered; some more traditional church services may require a head covering for women. Modest clothing will also protect your skin from the harsh sun in the summer.
Opt for the high-speed train for the fastest route from Paris to Milan. This 7-hour trip offers both efficiency and comfort between these two major cities. Prices start at $60.75 (€56) for standard seating if booked far enough ahead of time.
The high-speed train journey from Paris to Milan typically spans approximately 7 hours. This direct travel option covers a distance of approximately 500 miles (800 km) and offers passengers a swift and convenient connection between these two major European cities.
Yes, there are many direct train connections available between Paris and Milan. High-speed trains and overnight sleeper trains are just two of the many train options. Choose from first class, business class, or coach for the comfort option that fits your needs and budget.
With the Milan Pass, you can get discounts on various museums and exhibits around Milan. It also doubles as your public transportation pass with a set price based on 24, 48, and 72-hour cards. If you plan to visit Milan’s most popular attractions and get around the city by public transit, then it is definitely worth the cost!
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