Southern Lombardy Travel Guide

Read our comprehensive travel guide to Southern Lombardy with details of the best things to do, where to stay, and more. Start planning your Italy holiday today!


Introduction to Southern Lombardy

Southern Lombardy is located in the northern part of Italy, and it’s a region that offers a unique combination of pristine natural landscapes, fascinating historical sites, and tantalizing culinary experiences. The region is known for its charming small towns, scenic countryside, and welcoming locals. In this guide, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of what to see and do in Southern Lombardy.

List of Places to Visit in Southern Lombardy

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Southern Lombardy is home to numerous charming towns with historical significance. Among some of the region’s top cultural attractions include the following:

  • Pavia: Located on the banks of the Ticino River, this city is a historical center and home to numerous ancient buildings and landmarks. Some noteworthy attractions include the 14th-century Ponte Coperto, the medieval Castello Visconteo, and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Charterhouse of Pavia - a 14th-century Carthusian monastery.

  • Cremona: This city is best known as the birthplace of the famous violin maker, Antonio Stradivari. Visitors to Cremona can admire examples of his work at the Museum of Violin, located in the city’s historic center. Other attractions include the towering Cathedral of Cremona, the Civic Museum, and the Renaissance-era Palazzo del Comune.

  • Mantua: Located on the banks of the Po River, Mantua is a city with a rich artistic and cultural heritage. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is home to the beautiful Palazzo Ducale, and the stunning Basilica of Sant’Andrea.

Natural Attractions of Southern Lombardy: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The natural beauty of Southern Lombardy is breathtaking. Whether you’re a hiker or a mountain biker, there are plenty of options to explore the region’s outdoors. Some top natural attractions to see in the region include:

  • Parco del Ticino: This natural park covers over 90 kilometers along the Ticino River, and it is a haven for wildlife. Visitors can enjoy several outdoor recreational activities such as biking, hiking, and bird-watching.

  • Lake Garda: As Italy’s largest lake, Lake Garda offers plenty of activities for visitors, including swimming, boating, and windsurfing. The picturesque towns located around the lake each have their own unique charm. The town of Sirmione, located on a peninsula jutting out into the lake, offers a stunning castle, Roman ruins, and beautiful beaches.

  • Franciacorta: Located on the eastern edge of the region, Franciacorta is a wine-growing region with rolling hills stretching as far as the eye can see. Visitors can hike or bike through the picturesque vineyards, visit local wineries, and enjoy wine tastings and traditional food.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Lombardy

Southern Lombardy’s impressive landscape makes it an excellent outdoor destination for hikers and mountain bikers. There are several routes to consider, including:

  • The Via Francigena: This long-distance trail stretches over 1,500 kilometers from Canterbury in England to Rome and passes through Southern Lombardy. It is an excellent option for history buffs, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers.

  • Cycling routes in Franciacorta: For biking enthusiasts, there are several cycling routes to try in Franciacorta. Visitors can bike through the vineyards, visit local wineries, and admire the region’s natural beauty.

Best Things to Do in Southern Lombardy: Activities and Tours

There is no shortfall of things to do in Southern Lombardy. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or nature, there is something for everyone. Some popular activities include:

  • Food and wine tours: Lombardy is renowned for its gastronomy, and visitors can enjoy tasting local specialties such as risotto alla Milanese, Cotoletta alla Milanese, and delicious wines. Franciacorta is especially famous for its sparkling wine, which draws tourists worldwide.

  • Boat Tour on Lake Iseo: Take a boat tour on Lake Iseo and discover the beauty of the lake’s stunning scenery and surrounding nature reserves.

  • Visit the historic town of Crema: Visit the charming medieval town of Crema and explore the quaint alleys and ancient buildings, including the impressive 13th-century Torrazzo.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Lombardy

If you are planning to spend a week in Southern Lombardy, here is an itinerary to get you started:

Day 1: Arrive in Milan, the region’s largest city, and explore its world-famous historical landmarks such as the Duomo di Milano, the Teatro alla Scala, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

Day 2-3: Head to the lakeside town of Sarnico and discover the breathtaking Lake Iseo. Take a boat tour, hike in the surrounding nature reserves, and admire the picturesque beauty.

Day 4-5: Visit the city of Pavia and discover the region’s cultural heritage. Explore the ancient Castello Visconteo, the picturesque Ponte Coperto, and the beautiful Certosa di Pavia.

Day 6-7: Spend your last two days in Franciacorta, a region known for its wine production and stunning landscapes. Visit local wineries, bike through the vineyards, and enjoy local gastronomy.

Food and Drink Scene of Southern Lombardy

Must-Try Dishes

Lombardy is a region of Italy renowned for its cuisine. Here are some local dishes to try during your visit:

  • Risotto alla Milanese: This creamy, saffron-infused risotto is Lombardy’s most famous dish and a must-try for all foodies visiting the region.

  • Cotoletta alla Milanese: This breaded and fried veal cutlet is a defining dish of Lombardian cuisine and is best served with a zesty Arugula salad.

  • Ossobuco: A traditional Milanese dish made from veal shanks braised with wine, broth, and vegetables. It’s typically served with Gremolata sauce and saffron-infused Risotto alla Milanese.

Local Beverages

Southern Lombardy is a region famous for its wines, with several vineyards and wineries dotted throughout the area. The most popular local wines to try during your visit include:

  • Franciacorta: This region is famous for its sparkling wine, which is produced using the same process as Champagne.

  • Pinot Nero: This red wine is produced in the Oltrepò Pavese region and is renowned for its deep ruby color and fruity aroma.

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

Southern Lombardy has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some options to check out:

  • Milan: The region’s largest city, Milan, has plenty of hotels to choose from, ranging from luxury options to more affordable alternatives.

  • Lake Como: This picturesque lake has several charming towns around its shores, each with their own unique charm. Bellagio, Menaggio, and Varenna are just a few options.

  • Pavia: If you want to experience Southern Lombardy’s cultural treasures, Pavia is a great place to stay. There you will find plenty of guesthouses and hostels at affordable prices.

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

Here are some local products to purchase during your visit:

  • Fashion Products: Milan is a fashion capital, and there are plenty of shops to browse. Pick up some Italian designer clothing, shoes, and handbags to take home.

  • Wines and food products: Lombardy is a food and wine region, and there are plenty of local products to purchase, ranging from sparkling wines from Franciacorta to local olive oil, cheese, and cured meats.

Local Culture and Customs of Southern Lombardy

The Lombardian people are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness. Visitors should always greet with “Buongiorno or Buona sera” (Good morning, or Good evening) before any interaction.

Best Time to Visit Southern Lombardy

The best time to visit Southern Lombardy is during the spring and fall seasons, between March to June or September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are lighter.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Lombardy

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine: Lombardy has some of the most delicious dishes in Italy, so make sure to indulge your taste buds.

  • Respect cultural etiquette: Always respect the local customs and traditions, such as dressing appropriately when visiting churches.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage nature: Lombardy’s natural landscapes are some of the most pristine in Italy. Make sure to respect the environment by avoiding littering and harmful actions.

  • Overpack: Lombardy is a fashionable region, so make sure to pack lightly and leave some space for your shopping.

Safety and Health

Safety in Southern Lombardy

Southern Lombardy is generally a safe place to visit. However, visitors should keep an eye on their belongings in crowded tourist areas and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

Health in Southern Lombardy

Southern Lombardy has a modern healthcare system. Visitors should ensure they have the appropriate health insurance and carry necessary medication if required.

Getting to Southern Lombardy: Transportation Options and Logistics

Southern Lombardy is easily accessible by air or train from major Italian cities, including Milan, Venice, and Rome.

Airports Near Southern Lombardy

The major airports in the region are Milan’s Malpensa and Linate airports and Bergamo’s Orio al Serio airport.

Bus and Train Stations Near Southern Lombardy

The main train stations are located in Milan and Pavia, and there are also several bus stations throughout the region.

How to Get Around in Southern Lombardy

The most convenient way to get around Southern Lombardy is by car, although there are also train and bus connections throughout the region.

Where to Go Next from Southern Lombardy: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Southern Lombardy is a great base for visiting other regions in Northern Italy, including Piedmont, the Aosta Valley, and Trentino-Alto Adige.

Conclusion

Southern Lombardy offers an unrivaled combination of history, culture, natural beauty, and gastronomy. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip, and that you make unforgettable memories while discovering the captivating beauty of this region in Italy.

Mantua Mantua


    Cremona
    Golferenzo
    Sabbioneta
    Vigevano
    Villanterio