The car trip from Zermatt to Milan may only be 142 miles, but the ever-changing vistas feel like a journey through all of Europe's highlights. Snow-capped mountains soar into the clouds, postcard-card-worthy Swiss villages, rolling greenery littered with vineyards, and a bustling metropolis jam-packed with designer stores can all be found on this one trip.
Like most adventures through Switzerland, the journey begins with zig-zagging roads through towering peaks and low-lying valleys, giving you panoramic views as far as you can see. As the trail dips and dives through rugged terrain, country roads lead to fairytale villages home to rustic wooden chalets.
But those views are short-lived. Not long after crossing the Italian frontier, the serene landscape transforms into rolling hills coated by vibrant green hazelnut trees. Looping around the foothills of Parco Nazionale della Val Grande and following the Lake District's pristine flowing waters will take you to your final destination, the Fashion Capital of the World.
This journey is not too good to be true. To ensure you get the most out of this breathtaking drive, we created an in-depth guide with travel tips, tricks, and how to get from Zermatt to Milan hassle-free. If you're ready to embark on this adventure of a lifetime, buckle up and join us on a car journey through the heart of Western Europe!
About Milan
After your surreal drive from Zermatt to Milan, you'll have entered Italy's second-largest and most visited city. Although it's not the nation's capital, it's the regional capital of Lombardy.
Over 1.4 million locals reside here along the bank of the River Po. However, the area accommodates over five times the number of visitors annually.
Official language: Italian
Currency: Euro
Climate: humid subtropical
Plug Type: Types C, F, and L
Time Zone: GMT+1
Peak tourist season: July to September
### History of Milan
Like most of Europe, a Celtic tribe founded the city of Milan in 590 BC. After the Romans conquered the region in 222 BC, it was renamed Mediolanum and flourished into one of the world's most powerful towns. The surrounding mountains created a natural fortress, and its location in northern Italy meant it thrived as a trading hub and a base to launch military missions.
After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Milan once again rose from the ashes in the Middle Ages. Affluent families such as Visconti and Sforza brought the cityscape to new heights and even started the construction of the Duomo Cathedral. Economic and cultural wealth oozed from the city through the Renaissance up until Allied forces heavily bombed the region during World War II.
### Modern Milan
After the 1940s, Milan quickly restored its streets with state-of-the-art housing, roads, and public plazas. It also became the epicenter of a vital industrial period. With an influx of cash, Milan could turn to urbanization and return to its glory days as the crème de la crème of style and luxury.
In return, the city blossomed into the Fashion Capital of the World. Millions of tourists and celebrities like Emma Watson flock to the streets every February to indulge in brands such as Armani, Gucci, Versace, and Prada.
The city also developed a reputation as being Italy's nightlife capital. Cocktail bars stand on the corner of almost every street, and the chic settings are ideal for spoiling yourself in the spiritual home of aperitivo. These mixed drinks are so famous that one rumor states the first Negroni Sbagliato was created at Bar Basso in the 1970s!
From Zermatt to Milan: Travel Tips
No matter when or how you get from Zermatt to Milan, you'll have an unforgettable experience. However, using these travel tips from Daytrip drivers and experts, you'll put the cherry on top of the cake!
Enjoy the Sights
Natural wonders fill the quickest and most direct roads. But the scenic route is like another planet.
The journey cuts through the Swiss and Italian Alps, which many travel enthusiasts agree is one of the most scenic spots worldwide. You have complete control over your ride with Daytrip, so you can get off the highway to explore sites many tourists miss, including the sophisticated Museum Maga or the pretty UNESCO-listed town of Domodossola.
### Prepare for Changes
Though under 3.5 hours separate the cities, there are several changes to prepare for. The drive between Zermatt and Milan is the ideal opportunity to read up on the differences.
Firstly, you are entering a new country. Swiss was the national language, but now Italian will be spoken. And since Switzerland isn't part of the Eurozone, you'll also be changing from the Swiss Franc to the euro.
Finally, read up on other nuances, such as the nightlife and tipping cultures.
### Pack a Travel Bag
Whether it's a mini backpack or a tote bag, bring a separate pack from your main luggage to have easy access to essentials. The ride will take a few hours, so plenty of water and snacks are essential.
Pack a waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes if you plan sightseeing en route. The weather can change instantly within the Highlands.
How to Get From Zermatt to Milan
Due to the mountainous terrain and sprawling countryside, getting from Zermatt to Milan isn't a walk in Parco Sempione. In fact, there are only two options, which makes it easy to decide how to get from Zermatt to Milan.
Train from Zermatt to Milan
The train is the most popular way locals and tourists travel from Zermatt to Milan. Even though there are no direct routes available, it's a scenic and reliable mode of transportation.
The most direct trains require only one change, departing from Zermatt Train Station and arriving at Brig Bahnhofplatz. Luckily, trains to Milan are frequent with Trenitalia, so you shouldn't wait more than an hour for a connecting carriage. Once you board the direct service to Milano Centrale Railway Station, you can sit back, relax, and watch the windows paint a new picture after every twist and bend.
Fastest journey time: 3h 27m
Average journey time: 5h 44m
Lowest ticket price: €29
Average ticket price: €63
Trains per day: 18
### Daytrip from Zermatt to Milan
A private car ride with Daytrip is the quickest, most comfortable, and most convenient way of getting from Zermatt to Milan. You'll travel from your cozy Swiss lodge to the stylish Italian apartment in only 3 hours and 10 minutes. Since it's a private door-to-door service, you can select your desired departure time before lounging in plenty of personal space.
If you're traveling with suitcases, leave them to your English-speaking driver to manage. And if you wish to go sightseeing in the lakeside town of Stresa, you have peace of mind knowing they're safely stored in the trunk of your vehicle. Even when you arrive in Milan, you don’t need to worry about hurdling bags over cobbled lanes, as your professional driver will drop you off directly at your accommodation!
If that's not enough, all Daytrip bookings include:
- Clean, comfortable, and smoke-free car
- Complimentary bottled water
- Optional child seats
- Equipped for handicapped
- Flexible schedule
- Free cancellation 24 hours before departure!
Things to Do When You Get to Milan
Lombardy's capital city houses 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and warmly welcomes 7.5 million visitors through its gates annually. So it's only fitting that there’ll be a plethora of things to see and do when you get to Milan!
### Wander Piazza del Duomo
Although the Piazza del Duomo is the center of Milan's vibrant atmosphere, it's not the star of the show. The real centerpiece is the mesmerizing Duomo Cathedral, which dominates the area with its stunning Gothic architecture and bright white exterior. You can spend hours simply admiring the structure that began construction in 1386!
While you're here, you can't miss the just as remarkable Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. The oldest active mall in Italy is now a place to shop until you drop in expensive designer brands in exquisitely decorated buildings.
### Explore Sforza Castle
The Sforza Castle is a unique medieval fort that was once one of the largest on the continent. Its exterior sums up everything great about Milan: style, charm, and grandeur.
As you explore its expansive courtyards and historic walls, you'll get a surprise just as stunning at the castle: Parco Sempione! Locals sit on the relaxing green spaces sandwiched between leafy walkways and pretty bodies of water. If you're craving more landmarks, stroll to the bottom of the garden to discover Arco della Pace, the old city gate.
### Eat Through Navigli
Navigli is the soul of Milan's buzzy nightlife. The charming canals and colorful buildings are like a postcard of Venice. Bars, cafes, restaurants, and takeaways all line the busy cobbled paths, bubbling with a carnival atmosphere.
The best way to eat through Navigli is during Aperitivo. From 5:00 to 8:00 p.m, locals enjoy drinks and light bites before heading out. From €12 to €16, you get a delicious cocktail and unlimited foods, including cured meats, cheeses, pizza, and pasta!
### Visit Santa Maria Delle Grazie
Chances are you've never heard of Santa Maria delle Grazie. But you've probably heard of Leonardo Da Vinci's Last Supper mural!
This UNESCO World Heritage Site gives you access to one of the most renowned paintings. Booking in advance is mandatory, so if you're a history buff or art lover, plan your visit before you arrive in Milan.
The Last Supper is understandably in the spotlight. But don't forget to admire other Renaissance pieces and the incredible architecture inside and outside the building.
### Shop in Milan’s Fashion Quadrangle (Quadrilatero della Moda)
Milan is a world-renowned fashion destination, so you can’t visit without heading to Milan's prestigious fashion district! Indulge in luxury shopping (or window shopping) in the renowned designer boutiques and upscale fashion houses that line Quadrilatero della Moda. Get inspired and attired with the latest trends in outfits, handbags, and shoes as you explore Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga, and Via Sant'Andrea to discover.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Milan?
You can freely enjoy Milan's energy, food scene, and endless attractions at any point of the year. But if you're lucky enough to choose when you want to travel from Zermatt to Milan, visit during the shoulder season.
Milan in the Spring
Spring is always a top time to travel in Europe since there are fewer travelers than in the summer. Milan has one caveat - Fashion and Design weeks see the city fill up and prices skyrocket. The region's average daily temperature is a pleasant 77° Fahrenheit, so you can sip a morning latte on the terrace, enjoy a walking tour during the day, and savor an al fresco meal in the evening.
### Milan in the Fall
Fall is the second shoulder season of the year, from the end of September to November. Temperatures start to cool but are still pleasant for outdoor activities. The most compelling reason is the low cost of flights and accommodation. Milan isn't a budget-friendly city. So you can save significant cash by visiting during this timeframe. Milan Fashion Week is back again in the fall, so prices increase and accommodation fills up for this event.
"The entire process was easy and went smoothly. Our drivers Vuctor was profressional and friendly. Highland recommend Daytrip!!"
Cindy G.
United States
2026年2月17日
"The booking process was easy, rates were fair and the pick up process was easy and efficient with Victor our driver. Victor drove us to our destination without any issue. He was friendly and checked in often to ensure we felt comfortable or needed any rest stops. "
Amanda M.
Canada
2025年8月31日
"Communication with the team was great. Our driver was on time, professional and really friendly. Experience overall was excellent and we’d use the service again in the future ! "
Heidi L.
Canada
2024年9月26日
"Francesco was lovely. He arrived early at the pick up spot & helped us with our baggage. He was very personable & stopped at nice places when we needed a short break. We had a little extra time before catching our train in Milan; so we asked for suggestions. After clearing the additional time with the Daytrip office, we arranged to visit a couple of sites in Milan, within walking distance of each other. Francesco dropped us off at one end & showed us where he would pick us up. He kept our baggage in the car for us. Everything went very smoothly.
"
Lynn K.
United States
2024年9月13日
"He was a great guy, very professional and helpful with everything required for a smooth and safe trip.
"
Jeffrey B.
Australia
2024年8月12日
"Roberta was a fantastic driver and very accommodating to my needs. This was my first ride with DayTrip and it was very positive.
I just booked another trip! "
Joni Z.
Switzerland
2024年7月28日
"We had a wonderful experience!
Andriy was very professional and kind and the trip went relatively smoothly. We appreciate all of your help"
Shima M.
United States
2024年7月17日
"Hello:
Our trip with Roberto was perfect as well. He arrived ahead of our scheduled departure and provided us with a very pleasant experience. Communication was excellent! High recommendations from us!"
michael m.
United States
2024年6月20日
"Hello! We had a wonderful trip with Robson! Stopped to take a family picture at a lovely scenic overlook and had a good rest stop at Stressa. Nice Mercedes van with plenty of room. Will recommend to friends and family.
"
Anne Marie L.
United States
2024年4月9日
"Honestly I could not be an happier with Luis and the service provided! He was there early, his car was spotless, his driving was excellent and he was a consummate professional. I give him 11 out of 10. "
Christian B.
United States
2024年3月29日
"The transfer Zermatt-Milan by driver Ion S. was impeccable. Fast, in time, clean car, professional driver "
Stanislav L.
Russian Federation
2023年9月19日
"We would like to thank our great driver on Saturday. Sorry we don’t have his name. However he was very courteous to have pre-purchased some snacks and water for our three hour trip. He was very personable and knowledgeable. He made us feel very comfortable throughout the trip. It was nice being with a real professional. "
Michael W.
United States
2023年9月18日
"I wanted to drop a note about the amazing experience we had with Owain, our driver from Täsch to Milan.
Right from the start, Owain was responsive on WhatsApp. He was friendly and answered all our questions, which really put us at ease.
He showed up early at the train station and ready to help with our luggage. The car was spotless and he even had bottled water and snacks for us - such a nice touch!
The ride itself was smooth and comfortable, with few quick toilet breaks. Owain was not only professional but also really friendly and easy to chat with.
Upon arrival at Milan, he took a moment to remind us about being careful with pickpockets in the city. It showed he genuinely cared about our safety.
All in all, our journey with Owain and DayTrip was fantastic. We can't recommend him and your service enough.
Thanks for making our trip so enjoyable!"
Chin N.
Malaysia
2023年3月14日
"Moreno was excellent. Very professional and good driver. Easy to reach him on his cell phone. He arrived exactly on time despite snow on the road to Zermatt. The Mercedes V class was in excellent condition. We were very pleased with him and your company. 5+ stars!
"
Christopher E.
United States
2023年1月21日
"everything was perfect. I was very nervous coming out of the mountains back to Milan as it had snowed, but Antonio was cautious and got us there safely. "
Kendal K.
United States
2022年9月16日
"The trip was fantastic. Adriano was nice and professional. Would definitely recommend your company to someone. I just wish it would have been a bit cheaper!
"
Jeffry P.
United States
2022年9月9日
"We are very much pleased with our driver, Antonio. The car is clean. Because it was a 3 hour ride, he graciously asked if we need to stop for
WC and to buy some snacks. He is a safe driver and knows the road well. He is very helpful to secure for us a hotel when we found out the
apartment we had rented was not to our satisfaction."
Alex M.
United States
2022年8月3日
"Our driver was excellent. He drove over the highest Alps safely and was also extremely nice! Our driver was personable as well as being a good driver. We were very pleased with the service."
Linda M.
United States
2020年1月15日
"He was excellent , already onsite when we arrived. Had our name on a phone for ease Loved the scenic route , highlife for sure. He was very friendly and courteous. Would highly recommend him.
"
Alan O.
United States
2019年12月14日
"Oh Mr Ricardo was really a good man, he even bothered to get us a cup of coffee. We are very happy with the Proffesionalism of your drivers! A really good service with a heart! God Speed!
"
Albert T.
Philippines
关于从 Zermatt 到 米兰 旅行的问答
As of 2024, there is no direct flight from Zermatt to Milan Airport. The closest major airport where you can get a direct flight to Milan is Zurich. Tickets cost between €150 and €250 with Swiss International Airlines. However, considering it takes over 3 hours to get from Zermatt to Zurich, this is a time-consuming and costly option.
The quickest train from Zermatt to Milan is 3 hours and 47 minutes. But since no direct trips are available between the two cities, you might have to wait an additional hour or more for your connecting train. The average train trip takes 5 hours and 44 minutes.
As of 2024, no direct train is available from Zermatt to Italy. You must swap train operators from the Swiss-owned Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn to the Italian-operated Trenitalia. However, you can find several daily indirect services.
You can explore Milan's highlights and popular neighborhoods within three days. But you need at least five days to uncover the rich art and cultural scene and have enough time to soak up the La Dolce Vita lifestyle.
Overall, Daytrip is the best way to get from Zermatt to Milan. It's the only direct mode of transportation, and you can take advantage of optional sightseeing packages along the way. In addition, all of our drivers are English-speaking and can answer any queries you have about Milan.
Senato Hotel Milano is the best place to stay in Milan if you're looking for a lavish weekend. The stylish yet comfortable black-and-white setting is just a stone's throw from the best restaurants and shopping streets in town. If you're traveling on a budget, Babila Hostel offers affordable rooms in a boutique setting with a top-quality bistro.
As of 2024, there is no bus between Zermatt and Milan. You can catch a bus to Brig, but you'll eventually need to transfer to a train, as no bus travels on this route from Switzerland to Italy.
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