Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore

Cattolica International

Tips for your weekend

Studying abroad is an invaluable academic experience, but it can also be a way to explore a new country.  
Have you already planned your weekends? 
Here you can find some ideas on what to do, and where to go! 
  
10 reasons why you want to consider traveling by train: 
 
  1. Scenic Routes
    Italy offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Europe. Traveling by train allows you to witness the beauty of the countryside, picturesque villages, and rolling hills, providing a unique and scenic journey that flying simply cannot offer.
     
  2. Efficient Rail Network
    Italy boasts an extensive and efficient rail network, making it easy to travel between major cities and smaller towns. The high-speed trains provide a quick and comfortable way to move around the country.
     
  3. Cost-Effective
    While budget airlines might seem like a cheaper option at first glance, train travel can be cost-effective when factoring in additional expenses such as transportation to and from airports, baggage fees, and the overall convenience of city-center train stations.
     
  4. Reduced Environmental Impact
    Trains are a more environmentally friendly mode of transportation compared to airplanes. Consider your carbon footprint and choose a more sustainable travel option! Curious to know how much CO2 emissions you are saving by traveling by train? Check out this easy-to-use calculator: https://travelandclimate.org/
     
  5. Cultural Immersion
    Traveling by train allows you to witness the changing landscapes and absorb the local culture along the way. It's a more immersive experience, providing glimpses of daily life in various regions of Italy.
     
  6. Convenient City-Center Stations
    Train stations are often located in the heart of cities, making it easy for you to access you accommodation and explore the city immediately upon arrival. This convenience can save time and enhance the overall travel experience.
     
  7. Flexibility and Freedom
    Train travel provides flexibility in terms of departure times and the ability to change plans more easily. You can hop on and off trains, exploring different destinations without the constraints of strict flight schedules.
     
  8. Unique Experiences
    Train journeys themselves can become memorable experiences. From the bustling platforms to the relaxing ambiance of the train carriages, you can enjoy a unique and cultural journey that flying might lack.
     
  9. Avoid Airport Hassles
    Train travel eliminates many of the hassles associated with air travel, such as long security lines, baggage checks, and the need to arrive hours before departure. This allows for a more relaxed and stress-free travel experience.
     
  10. Meet Locals
    Trains provide an opportunity to interact with locals and fellow travelers. You can strike up conversations, learn about hidden gems from locals, and make new connections along the way.

Tips for your weekend

Milan is well-connected by train to various cities in Italy and other European destinations. Here are some popular destinations you can easily reach by train from Milan:

 

Venice

Venice

Known for its romantic canals, historic architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, Venice is approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes away from Milan by train.
Florence

Florence

Famous for its art, culture, and architecture, Florence is about 1 hour and 40 minutes away from Milan by train.
Rome

Rome

The capital city of Italy, Rome is around 3 hours and 15 minutes away by train from Milan. You can visit iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City.
Turin (Torino)

Turin (Torino)

Turin, known for its rich history, art, and cuisine, is about 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Milan by train.
Genoa (Genova)

Genoa (Genova)

A coastal city with a historic port area, Genoa is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes away by train from Milan.
Bologna

Bologna

One hour by train, the capital of Emilia-Romagna is famous for hosting the oldest university in the world, its Bolognese sauce, for its red roofs (hence the nickname “la rossa”) and for many other reasons!
Lake Como

Lake Como

For a scenic getaway, you can take a train to Como, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Como. The journey takes around 35-45 minutes.
Switzerland

Switzerland

Milan has good train connections to Swiss cities like Zurich, Basil, and Geneva. The travel time to Zurich is approximately 4 hours, while Geneva is around 4 hours and 30 minutes away.

USEFUL RESOURCES

Looking for inspiration and new ideas? 
This fun map shows you how far you can travel from each station in Europe in less than 8 hours. 
https://www.chronotrains.com/en

 

Useful links:

To book your tickets / check options in Italy:
Trenitalia: https://www.trenitalia.com/en.html
Italo Treno: https://www.italotreno.it/en

 

Tips on how to travel around Europe:

Trainline https://www.thetrainline.com
Seat61: https://www.seat61.com/

 

 

The mention of any specific company names, brands, or products in this content is for informational purposes only. Such references do not constitute an endorsement, sponsorship, or affiliation with these entities. Università Cattolica does not have any formal relationship with the companies cited, and no endorsement or sponsorship should be inferred.