Lombardy

Italy
Brescia Castle
Lake Maggiore which includes a lake or waterhole, a small town or village and mountains
Teatro Grande
Santa Giulia Museum
Villa Taranto Botanical Garden showing a park and wild flowers
A diverse landscape encompassing mountains and lowlands provides a picturesque backdrop for medieval villages and the famous fashion-obsessed city of Milan.

Lombardy is a breathtaking blend of mountain peaks, rolling hills and fast-paced cities. Visit quiet medieval towns nestled in the countryside, take part in an adventure trek through the Alps and go shopping in one of the fashion capitals of the world.

The biggest city in the region is fashion-forward Milan, which also happens to be Italy’s financial hub. Splurge on the latest fresh-from-the-runway fashions at designer retailers and learn about Milan’s history while touring centuries-old landmarks such as Sforzesco Castle and Filarete Tower. Milan also has an excellent arts scene. Highlights include the Ambrosiana Library and Painting Gallery and the Brera Gallery, which counts masterpieces by Raphael and Caravaggio among its collection.

Outside of Milan, worthy daytrip destinations include Monza, which is known for its historic royal residence, the Villa Reale. Visit the Colleoni Chapel in Bergamo and attend an opera at the magnificent Teatro Donizetti. In Cremona, about 90 minutes’ drive southeast of Milan, sits the Stradivarius Museum, whose exhibits chronicle the history of violin-making in the region.

Explore the Masegra Castle in Sondrio and head to the city of Lodi which retains its medieval charm. Wine tasting is a popular activity in the Franciacorta area, where vineyards stretch for miles. Foodies won’t want to miss Gorgonzola, where they can taste the potent-smelling eponymous cheese.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy alpine sports in the winter months at resorts such as Livigno and Bormio. In the summer, the Stelvio Glacier offers skiing even on the hottest days. Rafting and mountain biking are also common summer activities. For something more low-key, trek along the nature trails of the Sacred Mountains and sail across the sparkling waters of Lake Garda. See the landscape that inspired Leonardo da Vinci’s Virgin of the Rocks as you stroll or cycle along the banks of the Adda.

Most international travelers to the region arrive via Lombardy’s main airport, Aeroporto Malpensa, just north of Milan. Driving and trains are the best ways to get around the region. Be sure to validate your train ticket by stamping it at the yellow machines on train platforms before boarding.

Visit the breathtaking region of Lombardy for urban excitement as well as idyllic lake and mountain scenery.

Popular cities in Lombardy

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II which includes a castle, heritage architecture and night scenes
Milan
Known for Cathedrals, Museums and Art
One of Europe’s biggest cities is also home of da Vinci’s The Last Supper, global fashion brands and one of the largest churches in the world.

Reasons to visit

  • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
  • Teatro alla Scala
  • Piazza del Duomo
Bergamo
Bergamo
Known for Historical, Castle and Mountains
Bergamo is famous for its clear division into two parts: the modern lower part and the higher walled upper part on top of a hill. Our holiday in Bergamo tells the story of the city through its buildings, boroughs and squares, as well as through the beauty of its churches that showcase art from different periods. An ancient city made for walking, it's lovely to stroll amidst its attractions, but Bergamo is also a modern city with an international airport and avant-garde buildings. This city is a perfect mix to be discovered thanks to our reasonably priced holiday offers to Bergamo.

Reasons to visit

  • Piazza Vecchia
  • Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
  • Funicolare San Vigilio
Santa Giulia Museum
Brescia
Known for Historical, Business and Museums
A holiday in Brescia, halfway between Milan and Verona, is a splendid chance to discover this city located between the foothills of the Lombardy Pre-Alps and the Mella River. Originally a Roman outpost, Brixia was an active hub in the Imperial Age and it enjoyed renewed importance at the beginning of the nineteenth century when it was the site of the Risorgimento movement that culminated in the "Ten Days of Brescia". The city offers countless interesting places to visit, most of which are easily reached on foot, thanks to the city's architecture and urban plan: from the Broletto to the Loggia, from the Roman Forum to the medieval Castle and the artwork at the Pinacoteca gallery. Its proximity to Lake Garda gives Brescia a pleasant climate and a well-organised accommodation network. Our holiday offers to Brescia make it an affordable and enjoyable destination at the foot of the Lombardy Alps.

Reasons to visit

  • Mille Miglia Museum
  • Brescia Castle
  • Piazza della Loggia
Estense Palace which includes landscape views, a small town or village and a square or plaza
Varese
Known for Castle, Gardens and Historical
The palace, basilica and castle of this enchanting city north of Milan lie between the Campo dei Fiori mountain range and Lake Varese.

Reasons to visit

  • San Vittore Basilica
  • Corso Matteotti
  • Estense Palace
Como
Como
Known for Lakes, Ferries and boats and Boating
The “City of Silk,” overlooking Lake Como and bordered by the Swiss Alps, charms with its cafe culture, ornate churches and luxury silk trade.

Reasons to visit

  • Como-Brunate Funicular
  • Piazza Cavour
  • Como Cathedral
Livigno featuring landscape views, night scenes and mountains
Livigno
Known for Skiing, Spas and Cheese
Explore the diverse duty-free shops in this traditional Alpine village, known for its reliable snow conditions.

Reasons to visit

  • Livigno Ski Area
  • Valtellina Ski Area