The best cities in Lombardy

One of the best cities is undoubtedly Milan, the fashionable metropolis of northern Italy, enchanting visitors with an irresistible mix of historical grandeur and contemporary chic. The city is not only the financial center of Italy but also a hotspot for fashion, art, and culture.

Brescia, a vibrant city in Lombardy, impressively combines historical treasures with modern liveliness. Nestled at the foot of the Alps and near Lake Garda, it is a popular destination for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts. The historic center of Brescia is a jewel of history, dotted with impressive monuments such as the Capitolium, the ancient Roman temple, and the Santa Giulia Monastery, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fascinating museum. The Piazza della Loggia, the main square, is surrounded by elegant Renaissance buildings and is an ideal place to relax and observe city life. Brescia also offers excellent shopping opportunities and a vibrant culinary scene, particularly featuring the traditional Lombard cuisine. For a relaxing vacation in Italy, Brescia provides an ideal combination of history, culture, and access to the beautiful lakes and mountains of the region, making the city an attractive destination.

Bergamo, located in Lombardy, charmingly combines history and modern culture. The city consists of two parts: the historical Upper Town (Città Alta) and the modern Lower Town (Città Bassa). The Città Alta, perched on a hill and surrounded by Venetian walls, offers a stunning backdrop with medieval buildings, narrow streets, and breathtaking views. A stroll through the Piazza Vecchia, the heart of the old town, leads to historical landmarks such as the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and the Cappella Colleoni. In the Città Bassa, one can find modern shops, restaurants, and the vibrant life of a dynamic city. Bergamo is also an ideal starting point to explore the nearby Alps or Lake Como. For a holiday in Italy, Bergamo, with its mix of history, culture, and nature, is a wonderful choice that promises variety and relaxation.

Monza, known for its royal villa and the Formula 1 racetrack, is located in the Lombardy region and offers a fascinating mix of culture and history. The Villa Reale di Monza, a magnificent neoclassical palace, is surrounded by a vast park that is one of the largest walled city parks in Europe. The Parco di Monza is ideal for walks, picnics, and sports activities. The historic center of the city invites you to linger with its charming squares, cafés, and shops. Particularly noteworthy is the Duomo di Monza, an impressive Gothic cathedral known for its treasury and the famous Iron Crown that was once worn by Lombard kings. A holiday in Monza not only offers the opportunity to explore the rich history of the city but also the exciting experience of a race weekend when the Italian Grand Prix takes place at the Autodromo Nazionale di Monza. Monza combines tradition with modernity and offers something special for every visitor.

Como, a charming town on the shores of Lake Como in Lombardy, is known for its picturesque landscape and elegant architecture. Lake Como, surrounded by breathtaking mountains, offers a variety of leisure activities such as boat trips, hiking, and tours of the magnificent villas along the shore. The town itself impresses with its historic center, which houses the Cathedral of Como, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The promenade along the lake is perfect for strolls, where one can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Those who appreciate the view of the surroundings should take the funicular to Brunate, from where one can enjoy a spectacular view of the lake and the Alps. A holiday in Como combines nature, culture, and relaxation, while indulging in the Italian way of life. The town is also an ideal starting point to explore the surrounding villages and towns along Lake Como.

Pavia, a historic city in Lombardy, is only a short train ride from Milan and offers a rich cultural history. The city is known for its impressive university, one of the oldest in Italy, which has been in existence since 1361. A walk through the old town takes you past impressive sights, including the majestic Certosa di Pavia, a Carthusian monastery regarded as a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. The covered bridge Ponte Coperto, which spans the Ticino River, is another landmark and offers a beautiful view of the river and the city. Pavia is also known for its Romanesque churches, particularly the Basilica of San Michele Maggiore, which is a fascinating example of medieval architecture. For a relaxing holiday, the city offers a pleasant mix of culture, history, and cozy cafés where one can enjoy Italian life. The surrounding region, with its vineyards and gentle hills, also invites exploration.

Cremona, a charming city in Lombardy, is world-famous for its long tradition in violin making. The home of Antonio Stradivari and other master luthiers, the city exudes a strong musical heritage. Visitors can explore the Museo del Violino, where exquisite violins are on display and the history of this craftsmanship comes to life. At the heart of the city lies the Piazza del Comune, where the impressive Cremona Cathedral with its magnificent façade and the Torrazzo, the tallest brick tower in Italy, can be found. Climbing the tower offers a great view over the city and the surrounding region. In addition to its musical significance, Cremona also invites culinary delights, as the region is known for its nougat called Torrone. The cozy atmosphere of the city makes it a wonderful place for a relaxing holiday, where culture, history, and good food take center stage.

Lecco, a picturesque town on the eastern shore of Lake Como, is an idyllic travel destination in Lombardy. The town is surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Alps, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With the impressive Monte Resegone in the background, Lecco offers numerous hiking and climbing opportunities. Water sports enthusiasts also find their pleasure on Lake Como, where activities such as sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking are available. In the old town, visitors can discover charming squares and historic buildings, including the Basilica di San Nicolò with its distinctive bell tower that rises above the rooftops of the city. Lecco is also closely associated with the famous Italian writer Alessandro Manzoni, whose novel The Betrothed (I Promessi Sposi) is set in the region. A stroll along the lakeside promenade offers breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding landscape, while numerous restaurants and cafés serve local specialties such as polenta and fish dishes. Lecco is the perfect place for a relaxing holiday that combines nature, culture, and cuisine.