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.

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.

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.

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.

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 the_ _Duomo 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.

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.