Vigevano, less than 40 kilometers west of Milan served historically as an escape for Milanese political elites and is known for its renaissance Piazza Ducale, sized perfectly for a pleasant giro under the arcades.

The piazza and the adjacent castle make for a perfect day trip for those staying in Milan as it’s a 30-minute train ride from the Italian metropolis. It’s perfect for those who want a hassle-free, change-of-pace escape, just like Milanese elites did in the medieval and Renaissance period, and the visit provides an interesting parallel as Vigevano and Milan are tied through history, culture, and art.