When people think of Milan, they usually picture fashion, business districts and elegant city life. However, what many Erasmus+ students discover after arriving in the city is that Milan is also one of the best gateways to outdoor adventure in Europe. Within just a few hours, students can easily swap busy streets for sweeping alpine peaks, cycle around crystal-clear lakes or hike along some of Italy's most spectacular landscapes. Thanks to Northern Italy's excellent rail connections, many of these experiences can be enjoyed as easy day trips or longer weekend escapes. If you’re spending your Erasmus+ mobility in Milan this summer, these are some of the destinations worth adding to your bucket list.
1. Hike Above Lake Como
Lake Como is famous around the world, but many visitors never venture beyond the waterfront cafés and ferry rides. Some of the most rewarding experiences are found on the trails above the lake. Students looking for incredible views should consider some of the following:
These trails offer spectacular views across the lake, charming villages and mountain scenery that feels surprisingly remote despite being so close to Milan. For those active Erasmus+ travellers, Lake Como becomes far more than a sightseeing destination!
2. Cycle Along the Shores of Lake Garda
As Italy's largest lake, Garda has long been a favourite destination for cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. The area offers a combination of lakeside cycling paths, dramatic mountain scenery and picturesque villages that seem made for summer exploration. Students could spend the day moving between small towns, stopping for a swim or simply enjoying the views across the water if they want to. The lake's relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal escape from city life, particularly during the warmer months of July and August.
3. Discover One of Northern Italy's Best-Kept Secrets, Lake Iseo
While Como and Garda attract most of the attention, many Italians will tell you that Lake Iseo is one of the region's hidden gems. Less crowded and wonderfully authentic, the lake offers a quieter experience that many Erasmus+ students appreciate. What makes it special?
For students looking to experience a different side of Northern Italy, Lake Iseo is often an unexpected highlight.
4. Explore Monte Isola by Bicycle
Located in the centre of Lake Iseo, Monte Isola is one of the most unique destinations in Northern Italy. Remarkably, the island has very few cars, making it ideal for cycling and exploring at a slower pace. Students could spend the day riding through small fishing villages, enjoying lakeside views and discovering quiet corners far removed from the crowds of larger tourist destinations. Mount Isola is the kind of place that encourages visitors to slow down and appreciate simple experiences.
5. Escape to the Dolomites
Few landscapes in Europe leave such a lasting impression as the Dolomites. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this mountain range offers some of the continent's most dramatic scenery. Jagged peaks, alpine meadows and endless hiking trails create an environment that feels almost unreal. Popular summer experiences include the following activities:
While the Dolomites are better suited to a weekend trip than a day excursion, many Erasmus+ students consider them one of the highlights of their time in Italy.
6. Walk the Trails of Cinque Terre
For those who want to combine coastlines and hiking, Cinque Terre offers one of Italy's most iconic outdoor experiences. The region's famous walking paths connect colourful seaside villages perched above the Ligurian coast. Unlike traditional sightseeing, exploring Cinque Terre on foot allows students to experience the landscape at a slower pace whilst enjoying spectacular views of the Mediterranean. It’s easy to understand why the area remains one of Italy's most photographed destinations.
What This Means for Erasmus+ Students and Teachers
One of the greatest advantages of spending an Erasmus+ mobility in Milan is having access to so many different landscapes within a relatively short distance. Students can easily move from city life to mountain trails, alpine lakes and coastal paths in just a few hours, creating opportunities for exploration long after classes or placements have finished. These experiences often become some of the most memorable parts of mobility abroad.
Italy in the Summer FAQs
Q: Which lake near Milan is most underrated?
A: Lake Iseo remains one of Northern Italy's best-kept secrets and offers a quieter alternative to Lake Como and Lake Garda.
Q: Are the Dolomites suitable for Erasmus+ students?
A: Absolutely! Many students visit the region during weekends and enjoy hiking routes suitable for different experience levels.
Q: What is the best outdoor day trip from Milan?
A: Lake Como is one of the easiest and most rewarding destinations thanks to its hiking trails, lake views and excellent train connections.
To Sum Up
Milan may be known for fashion and business, but it also provides access to some of Europe's most spectacular outdoor destinations. From cycling around lakes and exploring hidden islands to hiking beneath the peaks of the Dolomites, Northern Italy offers Erasmus+ students countless opportunities to discover a different side of the country.