When travellers think of Lombardy, Milan's bustling streets and iconic landmarks often come to mind. While Milan is undeniably captivating, Lombardy has so much more to offer. From charming villages to breathtaking natural landscapes, this region is rich with destinations that promise unforgettable experiences. Here’s a guide to the best places to visit in Lombardy beyond Milan, including some real hidden gems.
Lake Como: a serene retreat
Looking for the best towns to visit near Milan? This is where to start. Lake Como is one of Italy's most glamorous and scenic destinations. Surrounded by mountains and dotted with picturesque villages, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and sophisticated charm. The town of Bellagio, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Lake," is famous for its cobbled streets, elegant villas, and stunning gardens. Varenna, another lakeside village, is known for its romantic ambience and historical sites like Villa Monastero.
Things to do in Lake Como:
- Boat tours: Explore the lake by boat, stopping at various towns and villas.
- Hiking: The Lake Como Greenway offers a scenic path through quaint villages and along the shoreline.
- Villa visits: Don’t miss Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello for their breathtaking architecture and gardens.
Bergamo: a tale of two cities
Bergamo is unique in that it comprises two distinct parts: the medieval Città Alta (Upper Town) and the modern Città Bassa (Lower Town). The Upper Town, perched on a hill, is a maze of narrow streets, historic buildings, and impressive fortifications, while the Lower Town is more contemporary and bustling.
Things to do in Bergamo:
- Città Alta: Wander through the Piazza Vecchia, visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, and take in the views from the Rocca di Bergamo.
- Accademia Carrara: Art enthusiasts will appreciate this art gallery, which houses a collection of Renaissance masterpieces.
- Funicular ride: Travel between the Upper and Lower Towns on the scenic funicular railway.
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Mantua: a Renaissance masterpiece
Mantua, or Mantova in Italian, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Renaissance architecture and artistic heritage. It was once a significant cultural center under the Gonzaga family, and their legacy is visible throughout the city.
Things to do in Mantua:
- Ducal Palace: Explore this grand complex with its numerous rooms, courtyards, and the stunning Camera degli Sposi.
- Te Palace: Visit this masterpiece of Mannerist architecture with its frescoed rooms.
- Lakes of Mantua: Enjoy a leisurely walk or boat ride around the lakes that surround the city.
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Valtellina: a paradise for nature lovers
Valtellina is a valley in the Sondrio province of the Lombardy region known for its stunning natural landscapes, outdoor activities, and delicious food and wine. This area is perfect for those who love nature and adventure.
Things to do in Valtellina:
- Skiing and snowboarding: During winter, head to Bormio or Livigno for some of the best slopes in the Alps.
- Wine tasting: Try the famous Valtellina wines, particularly the robust red wines made from Nebbiolo grapes.
- Thermal baths: Relax in the thermal baths of Bormio, which have been known since Roman times.
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Cremona: the city of violins
Cremona is renowned for its musical history, particularly its association with the art of violin making. This charming city offers a deep dive into the world of classical music and Italian craftsmanship.
Things to do in Cremona:
- Violin museum: Discover the history and craftsmanship of violin making at the Museo del Violino.
- Stradivarius workshop: Visit the workshop where Antonio Stradivari, the legendary violin maker, created his masterpieces.
- Cremona cathedral: Admire the beautiful frescoes and architecture of this historic cathedral.
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Franciacorta: Italy’s sparkling wine region
For wine enthusiasts, Franciacorta is a must-visit destination. Known for its high-quality sparkling wines, this region offers picturesque vineyards and luxurious wine tastings.
Things to do in Franciacorta:
- Wine tasting tours: Visit renowned wineries such as Bellavista and Ca’ del Bosco.
- Cycling routes: Explore the scenic vineyards and rolling hills by bike.
- Lake Iseo: Combine your wine tour with a visit to the nearby Lake Iseo, a less crowded but equally stunning alternative to Lake Como.
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Lombardy is a region that offers much more than the cosmopolitan allure of Milan. From serene lakes and medieval towns to vineyards and alpine valleys, there is a wealth of destinations waiting to be discovered. So next time you plan a trip to Northern Italy, venture beyond Milan and uncover the hidden gems of Lombardy.
All of these destinations are equally some of the best places to live in Lombardy: don't miss out on our wide selection of property for sale and rent in the region.
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