Milan might be famous for its fashion and design scenes, but for outdoor enthusiasts, it’s also a good jumping-off point for exploring Italy’s stunning natural scenery. Unlike the typical city tour, hiking and trekking adventures around Milan put you face-to-face with mountain peaks, tranquil lakes, and lush forests. Our favorites include a private trek to Lake Como’s Mount St. Primo, offering breathtaking views of the lake and Alps, and a peaceful walk through Milan’s own woods ending with a picnic by the Turtles Lake. Both tours provide a refreshing escape from urban life and are perfect for nature lovers who want more than just sightseeing.
If you’re after a full-day adventure with personalized attention, the Lake Como trekking private guided tour stands out, thanks to its stunning mountain scenery and flexible pickup options. On the other hand, if a shorter, relaxed outing with Italian snacks sounds more appealing, the Trekking in the Wood with picnic on the Turtles Lake offers a charming, family-friendly escape in just a couple of hours. Both are excellent choices depending on your schedule, fitness level, and desire for adventure or relaxation.
Here’s a quick overview of the types of tours on this list:
– Full-day private guided trek to Mount St. Primo with transfers from Milan or Como, offering panoramic mountain views and a personalized experience. Learn more here.
– Shorter, scenic forest walk with a picnic at Turtles Lake, perfect for a relaxing day in nature without a strenuous climb. Check availability here.
Let’s dive into the details of each tour and help you decide which one fits your travel style.
1. Lake Como trekking private guided tour, from Milan or Como
At number one, this private guided tour takes you into Italy’s stunning mountain landscape surrounding Lake Como. Starting from either Milan or Como, the day begins with convenient transfers, making the logistics hassle-free. The main highlight is trekking up Mount St. Primo to an altitude of 1,600 meters (around 5,250 feet), where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Lake Como and the Alps. The trek itself offers a perfect mix of moderate challenge and scenic beauty, making it ideal for travelers with some fitness but not seeking an extreme climb.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized experience. Your guide, Giorgio, or another knowledgeable local, customizes the pace and route, sharing insights about the landscape and local flora. Guests frequently praise the expert guiding—one reviewer called Giorgio “very knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating.” The total experience includes about 5 hours of trekking, with an extra 2 hours for transfers and the drive to and from the mountains. The tour is rated 5.0/5 from nine reviews, emphasizing the quality of scenery, guide expertise, and overall value.
For around $138, this tour provides an excellent mix of adventure, relaxation, and personalized service. It’s best suited for travelers who want a full-day escape with a good level of physical activity but also appreciate comfort and custom attention. Keep in mind that the hike is more demanding than a simple walk, so some stamina is required.
Bottom Line: This private Lake Como trek offers unparalleled views and a tailored experience, making it ideal for lovers of mountain scenery and dedicated hikers.
2. Trekking in the Wood with picnic on the Turtles Lake
At number two, this shorter, relaxed nature walk explores Milan’s own forest and lakeside environment. Starting at Via Giorgio de Chirico, the tour involves a walk through Milan’s green spaces, where you’ll discover secret corners and observe local wildlife. The highlight is reaching Turtles Lake, where a picnic awaits with Italian products—think fresh cheeses, bread, and regional snacks—perfect for recharging after the walk.
Rated a perfect 5/5 by seven reviewers, this tour appeals to those wanting a peaceful outdoor experience without the intensity of mountain trekking. The 1.5-hour journey includes scenic views, photo stops, and even an optional beer or cheese tasting. It’s a family-friendly outing that combines nature, relaxation, and local flavors in a way that captures the essence of outdoor Milan.
For just $28 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a quick nature fix. It’s best suited for travelers with limited time, families, or those simply wanting a gentle walk in fresh air. The picnic, featuring authentic Italian treats, makes it a charming and authentic experience—no strenuous climbs required.
Bottom Line: This walk in the Milanese woods combined with a lakeside picnic is perfect for a laid-back outdoor afternoon, especially if you want a taste of local life and scenery without a demanding hike.
How to Choose
Deciding between these tours depends on your interests, fitness level, and schedule. If you’re craving a full-day mountain trek with panoramic views, the Lake Como private guided tour is your best bet. It’s ideal if you want a personalized, guided experience and don’t mind some physical activity. To learn more, visit the Lake Como trekking tour page.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a shorter, relaxed day that combines nature with delicious Italian snacks, the Trekking in the Wood with picnic on the Turtles Lake offers a peaceful escape suited for families or anyone wanting to enjoy Milan’s natural beauty without breaking a sweat.
Consider your time, budget, and fitness level. The mountain trek offers a more intense experience for about five times the price, while the lakeside picnic provides a budget-friendly, gentle outing.
Final thoughts
Milan offers more than just urban adventures—there are some wonderful options for hikers and nature lovers. The Lake Como trek stands out for its stunning mountain vistas and personalized touch, perfect for serious outdoor enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the forest walk with picnic presents a relaxing way to enjoy Milan’s green spaces amid fresh air and good food.
For most travelers, a combination of these options can make for memorable days: a vigorous mountain hike on one trip and a leisurely lakeside picnic on another. To ensure you get your preferred date, consider booking early, especially for the popular Lake Como trek. Whatever your choice, you’ll find these tours offer a fresh perspective on the beautiful natural side of Italy near Milan.
