Things To Do
in Rho
Rho is a Lombardy town on the western outskirts of Milan, closely connected to the Milan Fair (Fiera Milano) in the Rho-Pero area. It blends a quiet historic core with modern transport links and expo zones, making it a convenient base for exploring both Milan and nearby lake districts. The town offers authentic trattorias, bakeries, and small markets that reveal everyday Lombard life, all within a compact, walkable radius.
With fast rail and road access to Milan, Como, and Lugano, Rho is ideal for mixing urban culture with countryside escapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through Rho's historic center, taking in the charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Stop by the Church of San Martino, where you can admire its stunning frescoes and intricate details. Enjoy a traditional Italian breakfast at a local café, savoring a cornetto and an espresso as you watch the town wake up.
After lunch, visit the Museo della Villa, where you can delve into the history of the area and see artifacts that date back to ancient times. Stroll through the picturesque streets, browsing local shops for unique souvenirs and artisanal goods. As the afternoon sun begins to set, relax in the nearby park, enjoying the tranquility and watching locals go about their day.
As evening approaches, head to a local trattoria for a delicious dinner featuring regional specialties like risotto alla Milanese. Let the atmosphere envelop you as you share a bottle of wine and enjoy a leisurely meal. After dinner, take a walk through the illuminated streets, experiencing the charm of Rho under the stars.
Start your day with a visit to the nearby Fiera Milano exhibition center, renowned for its art and cultural events. Explore the temporary exhibits and installations, immersing yourself in contemporary art and design. Grab a light lunch at the on-site café, sampling fresh Italian sandwiches and pastries.
Continue your artistic journey by visiting the Museo del Tessile, which showcases the rich textile history of the region. Engage with interactive displays that explain the evolution of fabric production in Italy. Spend the rest of the afternoon wandering through local art galleries, discovering works by both established and emerging artists.
For dinner, indulge in a gourmet meal at a nearby restaurant known for its innovative take on traditional Italian cuisine. Enjoy the vibrant ambiance as you dine on seasonal dishes, complemented by a selection of local wines. After dinner, attend a live performance at a local theater, experiencing the cultural heartbeat of Rho.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $80-140 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $40-90 |
| 🚆Train or public transport day pass | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee at café | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to Milan and the lakes
- Calm base with authentic Lombard experiences
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Smaller town amenities and options outside fair events
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Mi può aiutare?" - Can you help me?
- "Dov'è la stazione?" - Where is the station?
- "Quanto Costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Vorrei un tavolo per due" - I would like a table for two
Places to Visit in Rho
Visit one of these nice places.
Modern fairground pavilions with bold lines and reflective glass, especially striking at dawn or dusk.
Quiet lanes around the old town with stone facades and small churches, ideal for candid street scenes.
Medieval church with simple, solid lines set against a lively town backdrop.
Forest edges and meadows offering soft natural light and seasonal color for landscape shots.
Food in Rho
Rho Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A saffron-scented, creamy risotto often served as a primo in Lombard kitchens.
Must-Try!
Braised veal shanks with vegetables and white wine, usually served with risotto or polenta.
Breaded veal cutlet fried in butter, a Milanese classic.
A hearty polenta made with buckwheat flour, often served with rich mushroom sauces or stews.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town center offering fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and bakery goods.
Casual options around the town where you can try panzerotti, fried arancini, and other quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera' with a handshake; address people formally using 'Lei' in first interactions.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; keep voices down in residential areas; queue politely.
Safety
Tipping in Rho
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common when service is not included.
Credit and debit cards widely accepted; cash is useful for small shops and markets; some places add 'servizio' or 'coperto' on the bill.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny days with long daylight hours; bring water, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild to cool days with colorful foliage; great for photography and walking; showers possible.
Milder winters with occasional cold snaps; some outdoor spots may be quiet but cozy cafes are welcoming.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; perfect for markets and nature walks.
Rho at Night
Hiking in Rho
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Network of forest paths north and west of Rho with easy to moderate hiking routes.
Hilly terrain with panoramic views and well-marked trails about an hour from Rho.
Scenic lake trails with promenades and gentle hikes near the water.
Airports
How to reach Rho by plane.
Main international gateway for the region, about 25-40 km from Rho; train or drive connects to Milan and then to Rho.
City-area airport offering domestic and European flights, roughly 40-50 minutes by rail or car to Rho.
Smaller international gateway; longer transfer time to Rho, but accessible by rail and road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents who travel to Milan for work and return in the evenings.
Local families and multi-generational households that form the backbone of the community.
Older residents enjoying a quieter Lombard lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local clubs and youth academies.
A common activity given the flat surroundings and nearby lakes; popular on weekends.
Boating and sailing opportunities on nearby lakes; lake Como and Lugano are popular day trips.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rho.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Lombard dishes rely on dairy and vegetables; request vegetable risottos or pasta with tomato-based sauces; communicate clearly with staff. There are usually cheese and mushroom options; avoid heavy meat gravies if vegetarian.