Lombardy Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, local culture, safety and health, and transportation options in Lombardy, Italy.


Introduction to Lombardy

Lombardy is a region located in Northwest Italy, known for its charming cities, picturesque scenery, and vibrant culture. With Milan as its capital, Lombardy is the most populous region in Italy, and it offers something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to art aficionados.

This Lombardy travel guide will provide you with everything you need to know to plan your trip to this region, including the top places to visit, things to do, local culture and customs, food and drink scene, and transportation options.

List of Places to Visit in Lombardy

Lombardy is a region full of history, natural beauty, and cultural attractions. Here are some of the must-visit places in Lombardy:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Milan Cathedral: One of the most famous landmarks in Milan, this cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and houses some of the world’s finest art.
  • The Last Supper: Painted by Leonardo da Vinci, this mural is located in the Santa Maria delle Grazie church in Milan and is considered a masterpiece of Western art.
  • Sforza Castle: One of the most famous landmarks in Milan, this castle is a complex of museums and art galleries that house important collections of art and historical artifacts.
  • Bergamo: A picturesque hilltop town with narrow streets, ancient walls, and beautiful gardens.
  • Cremona: A city that is famous for its production of stringed instruments, including violins, violas, and cellos.
  • Mantua: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this city is known for its Renaissance architecture and art.
  • Valtellina: Located in the foothills of the Alps, this picturesque valley is known for its wineries and ski resorts.

Natural Attractions of Lombardy: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Como: A beautiful lake surrounded by mountains and picturesque villages.
  • Franciacorta: A region known for its vineyards, wine tasting, and country-style restaurants.
  • Val Camonica: A valley known for its prehistoric rock art.
  • Stelvio Pass: A mountain road that connects Italy and Switzerland, known for its scenic views and winding route.
  • Garda Lake: Known for its beautiful scenery, this lake is a popular destination for water sports such as windsurfing and sailing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lombardy

Lombardy has a number of gorgeous hiking and biking routes that offer stunning views and a chance to experience the region’s natural beauty up close. Some of the best routes include:

  • Sentiero Valtellina: A hiking route that follows the valley of the Adda River, passing through beautiful landscapes.
  • Monti Martani Trail: A mountain biking route that offers challenging terrain and breathtaking views.
  • Val Venosta Cycle Path: A biking route that runs from the Resia Pass to Merano, offering beautiful views of the valley and surrounding peaks.

Best Things to Do in Lombardy: Activities and Tours

Lombardy offers an array of activities and tours that cater to different interests and preferences. Some of the best things to do in Lombardy include:

  • Wine tasting tours: Lombardy is known for its top-quality wines, and there are plenty of wineries and vineyards that offer tasting tours.
  • Food tours: Lombardy is also known for its delicious cuisine, and there are food tours that take visitors on a journey through the region’s culinary traditions.
  • Art tours: Lombardy is home to some of the world’s finest art, and there are many tours that take visitors on a journey through the region’s rich artistic heritage.
  • Skiing and snowboarding: The region offers several ski resorts where visitors can enjoy winter activities.
  • Shopping: Milan, the capital of Lombardy, is one of the fashion capitals of the world and offers plenty of shopping opportunities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lombardy

To make the most of your trip to Lombardy, consider the following week-long itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Milan and explore the city’s cultural attractions, such as the Milan Cathedral, Sforza Castle, and Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper.

Days 2-3: Visit the beautiful towns of Bergamo and Cremona, known for their historic architecture and gastronomy.

Days 4-5: Explore the beautiful Lake Como area, hiking and biking around the lake and visiting charming villages like Bellagio.

Days 6-7: Head to the Valtellina Valley for some wine tasting, or ski the slopes of the nearby ski resorts.

Food and Drink Scene of Lombardy

Lombardy is known for its delicious cuisine, from hearty meat dishes to velvety risottos and buttery polenta. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Risotto alla Milanese: A creamy and fragrant risotto made with saffron and Parmesan cheese.
  • Ossobuco: A braised veal shank served with a gremolata of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley.
  • Cotoletta alla Milanese: A breaded and fried veal chop that is a Milanese classic.
  • Polenta: A creamy and buttery cornmeal dish that is a staple of Lombardy cuisine.

Local Beverages

  • Franciacorta: A sparkling wine from the region that is known for its high quality.
  • Sforzato di Valtellina: A red wine made from Nebbiolo grapes that is aged for at least three years.
  • Grappa: A strong brandy made from grape skins and stems that is a popular after-dinner drink.

Where to Stay in Lombardy: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lombardy has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some of the best places to stay in Lombardy include:

  • Four Seasons Hotel Milano: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Milan, offering elegant suites and top-notch amenities.
  • Ostello Bello Grande: A cozy and comfortable hostel located in the Navigli district of Milan, with a friendly staff and fun atmosphere.
  • Casa Sull’Albero: A guesthouse located in the woods near Bergamo, offering unique treehouse-style accommodation and stunning views.

What to Buy in Lombardy: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lombardy is known for several local products that are perfect for bringing home as souvenirs or gifts. Some of the best local products to buy in Lombardy include:

  • Risotto rice: Lombardy is known for its high-quality rice, which is used to make the region’s famous risotto.
  • Cheese: Lombardy is famous for its cheese, such as gorgonzola, grana padano, and taleggio.
  • Fashion: Lombardy, and Milan in particular, is known for its fashion and luxury goods, making it a great place to shop for clothing, accessories, and jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Lombardy

Lombardy has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its art, architecture, and cuisine. The locals are known for their warm hospitality and love of food and wine.

When visiting Lombardy, it’s important to be respectful of local customs, such as dressing modestly when visiting religious sites and not speaking too loudly in public spaces.

Best Time to Visit Lombardy

The best time to visit Lombardy depends on your interests and preferences. For outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing, the best time to visit is during the winter months from December to February. For sightseeing and cultural attractions, spring and autumn are the best times to visit when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lombardy

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and wine.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Speak too loudly or disrespectfully in public spaces.
  • Leave valuables unattended.
  • Assume that everyone speaks English.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lombardy

Lombardy is a safe region, and travelers are unlikely to encounter any major safety issues. However, it’s always a good idea to exercise caution and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas.

Health in Lombardy

Lombardy has an excellent healthcare system, and visitors can expect high-quality medical care if needed. However, it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses.

Getting to Lombardy: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lombardy is easily accessible from other parts of Italy and Europe. Here are some of the transportation options available:

Airports Near Lombardy

  • Milan Malpensa Airport: The largest international airport in Lombardy, located near Milan.
  • Milan Linate Airport: A smaller airport located closer to Milan, mainly handling domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Lombardy

  • Milan Central Station: A major transportation hub located in the heart of Milan.
  • Bergamo Bus Station: A major transportation hub located in Bergamo.

Other Options

  • Train: Lombardy is well connected by train to other parts of Italy and Europe.
  • Car: You can rent a car to explore the region’s countryside at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Lombardy

Lombardy has an excellent transportation system, with trains, buses, and metro systems that connect the major cities and towns in the region. In Milan, the metro system is the most convenient way to get around, while in smaller towns, buses and trains are the best options.

Where to Go Next from Lombardy: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lombardy is a great base for exploring other parts of Italy and Europe. Here are some nearby destinations to consider:

  • Venice: One of Italy’s most beautiful cities, known for its canals, architecture, and art.
  • Tuscany: A region known for its picturesque countryside, historic cities, and delicious cuisine.
  • Switzerland: A neighboring country known for its stunning alpine scenery and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Lombardy is a region that has something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to cultural and artistic experiences. With its rich history, stunning natural scenery, and excellent cuisine, Lombardy is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Italy.



    Grande Milano
    Lake Como
    Lombardian Alps and Prealps
    Southern Lombardy
    Varese (province)