Milan - Paris

Where to Stay

Traveling by train from Paris to Milan is a scenic and convenient option. Here are the best ways to do it by train, including direct and scenic routes:

1. Direct High-Speed Train (Fastest & Easiest)

Train: TGV INOUI (Operated by SNCF)
Duration: ~7 hours
Frequency: Usually 1–2 direct trains per day
Departure: Paris Gare de Lyon
Arrival: Milano Porta Garibaldi or Milano Centrale
Highlights: Comfortable seats, Wi-Fi, scenic views through the French Alps and Northern Italy

2. Via Geneva or Lausanne (Scenic Route Option)

Paris → Geneva/Lausanne (TGV or Lyria) → Milan (Trenitalia or EuroCity)
Duration: ~8–9 hours
Change Trains: 1
Highlights: Beautiful Swiss countryside and lakeside views

3. Night Train (If Available)

Train: Thello (was a popular option, but currently not in service)
Alternative: Look for any available Trenitalia Intercity Notte or other options connecting through Switzerland or Germany.
Pros: Save on hotel and travel time
Cons: Less frequent; may require changes

One of the most picturesque and delightful ways to take in the splendor of both France and Italy is to take the train from Milan, Italy to Paris, France. This journey passes through historic cities, lovely villages, rolling vineyards, and the breathtaking Alps. Travelers can enjoy a visual feast in addition to comfort and efficiency on this trip.

Starting Point: Milan (Milano)

Milan is Italy’s fashion capital and a global city brimming with art, history, and culture. Some must-visit attractions include:

Duomo di Milano– An architectural masterpiece with panoramic rooftop views.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II– One of the world’s oldest shopping malls.
Sforza Castle– A historic fortress housing several museums.
La Scala Opera House– A world-famous theatre for opera lovers.

Train Route: Milan to Paris

The direct train from Milan to Paris is operated by Trenitalia (Frecciarossa) and SNCF (TGV INOUI). The journey takes around 6.5 to 7 hours on average and covers approximately 850 km (528 miles).

🔹Route Highlights:

Milan Centrale– Departure point.
Turin (Torino Porta Susa)– First major stop, a sophisticated northern Italian city.
Oulx / Bardonecchia– Alpine towns near the French border; stunning mountainous views.
Modane– Border town nestled in the French Alps.
Chambéry– Quaint French town surrounded by lakes and mountains.
Lyon Part-Dieu– One of France’s major cities, famous for gastronomy.
Paris Gare de Lyon– Final stop in the heart of Paris.

Duration and Frequency:

Journey time: Approx. 6 hours 30 minutes (direct)
Distance: Around 850 km (~530 miles)
Direct trains: Available multiple times daily
First train: Around 06:00 AM
Last train: Around 16:00 PM

Travel and Flights

Highlights:Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Champs-Élysées, Notre-Dame.
Cultural capital with endless museums, cafes, and iconic landmarks.
Known for:World-class food, Renaissance old town, and riverside views.
Don't Miss:Vieux Lyon, Basilica of Fourvière, traboules (hidden passageways).
Small Alpine town surrounded by mountains.
Charming with:Medieval old town, scenic lake nearby (Lac du Bourget).
A quiet French Alps town near the Italian border.
Scenic viewsand mountain vibes; base for ski resorts.
The train passes through the Mont Cenis Tunnel (13.7 km long).
Breathtaking sceneryof the Alps just before and after the tunnel.
Elegant northern Italian city with baroque buildings and espresso bars.
Don't Miss:Egyptian Museum, Mole Antonelliana, Royal Palace.
Italy’s fashion and business hub.
Must-see:Milan Cathedral (Duomo), The Last Supper, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.