Lombardy

Bergamo captivates with two characteristic parts: the historic Upper Town, Città Alta, and the modern Lower Town, Città Bassa. You can easily reach Città Alta by funicular; it is surrounded by Venetian city walls, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its heart is the Piazza Vecchia with the Palazzo della Ragione, the Contarini Fountain, and the Torre Civica, which define its medieval flair. Directly adjacent, you'll find the impressive Capella Colleoni and the Cathedral, testifying to Bergamo's rich history. From the city walls, you can enjoy expansive views over the Po Valley. Discover also Città Bassa with its elegant shopping streets and the significant art collection of the Accademia Carrara. For a relaxed experience, a visit in spring or autumn, outside the high season, is recommended.

Brescia impresses with a rich historical heritage from Roman roots to the Lombard era. Its UNESCO World Heritage site includes the Roman Capitolium, the Theatre, and the Monastero di Santa Giulia, which comprehensively document the history of the ancient city of Brixia and the Lombard era. Stroll across the Renaissance Piazza della Loggia and discover the two cathedrals, the Romanesque Duomo Vecchio and the Baroque Duomo Nuovo. Perched above the city is the Castello di Brescia, also known as "the Falcon of Italy", which offers not only a fortress but also museums and excellent views. Explore the side streets away from the main thoroughfares to experience its authenticity and try local specialties like Casoncelli or Franciacorta wine. For a relaxed visit without large crowds, the spring or autumn months are ideal.

One of Europe's most beautiful lakes, known for its dramatic landscape, luxurious villas, and picturesque lakeside towns like Bellagio and Varenna.

Milan, the dynamic capital of Lombardy, is a leading centre for fashion, design, and finance in Italy. Here you'll find impressive architecture, including the majestic Milan Cathedral with its intricate Gothic style, whose rooftop walk offers expansive city views. Right next to it stands the splendid Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a historic shopping paradise. The world-renowned opera house Teatro alla Scala testifies to Milan's rich cultural tradition. Explore the artists' quarter Brera with its galleries and boutiques, or visit Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper" in the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. For a more relaxed atmosphere and dinner, a stroll along the Navigli canals is highly recommended. The best time to visit is spring or autumn, to explore the city in pleasant temperatures.

Mantua (Mantova), a UNESCO World Heritage city in Lombardy surrounded by three lakes, impresses with its rich history and Renaissance architecture. The city was once home to the Gonzaga family, whose influence is reflected in the imposing Palazzo Ducale and the elegant Palazzo Te. The Palazzo Ducale, an expansive complex with over 500 rooms, houses Mantegna's famous Camera degli Sposi. The Palazzo Te, a masterpiece by Giulio Romano, features captivating frescoes depicting mythological themes. Stroll through the old town's narrow streets and discover charming squares like Piazza Sordello. A boat trip on the lakes offers a unique perspective on the city and its lakeside landscape. For a relaxed exploration, spring or autumn is recommended to avoid the summer tourist crowds.

As the former capital of the Lombard Kingdom and home to one of Europe's oldest universities, Pavia captivates with its historical architecture and the nearby Certosa.