Novara Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Novara, a city in Piedmont, Italy with this comprehensive travel guide featuring must-see attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, and local customs.


Introduction to Novara

Novara, a charming city in Piedmont, Italy, is a perfect destination for those seeking a mix of culture, history, and outdoor adventures. Located in the northwest region of Italy, Novara is often overshadowed by its more popular neighbors like Milan or Turin, but this hidden gem has plenty to offer.

The city boasts of stunning historical landmarks, beautiful architecture, and scenic landscapes. The center of Novara is well known for its delightful markets, cafes, and historic buildings. Besides, the surrounding countryside is dotted with vineyards, rolling hills, and sparkling lakes, making it a haven for nature lovers.

This Novara travel guide will take you through the best things to do, places to visit, local customs, and attractions in the city. Whether you’re a solo traveler, on a romantic getaway, or exploring Italy with your family, this guide has everything you need to plan your dream Italian vacation in Novara.

List of Places to Visit in Novara

Novara offers visitors numerous attractions, each with its unique charm. From historical landmarks and natural wonders to culturally significant museums and galleries, there is something for everyone in Novara. Here’s a list of must-visit attractions you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Novara.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Novara Cathedral - One of the most important landmarks in Novara, the cathedral was first built in the 4th century and is known for its beautiful Gothic architecture.
  2. Basilica of San Gaudenzio - A remarkable example of Renaissance architecture, this Basilica features a grand dome, a 121-meter high bell tower, and stunning mosaics.
  3. Castello Sforzesco - This well-preserved castle dates back to the 14th century and houses a museum with exhibits and artifacts from the region’s history.
  4. Museo Civico del Broletto - This museum features a wide range of artistic and historical artifacts, including ancient Roman finds, medieval art, and 19th-century paintings.

Natural Attractions of Novara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Parco dei Bambini - This park is perfect for families with kids and features a miniature train, playgrounds, and a pond where you can go boating.
  2. Lake Orta - Located just a short drive from Novara, Lake Orta is one of the most beautiful lakes in the region. You can rent a paddleboat or go swimming in its crystal clear waters.
  3. Sacred Mountain of Orta - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this mountain is home to twenty chapels dedicated to the life of Saint Francis of Assisi and offers panoramic views of the lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Novara

Novara is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking and biking trails that will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region.

  1. Parco della Valle del Ticino - This nature reserve offers several hiking routes among rolling hills, ancient forests, and panoramic views of the river Ticino.
  2. Monte Fenera Trail - This trail takes you on a challenging trek up the Monte Fenera mountain through dense forests, mountain streams, and alpine meadows.
  3. Cycle Routes - Novara has a network of cycling routes that lead through the countryside, vineyards, and along the river Ticino. A popular route is the Lago d’Orta cycle route.

Best Things to Do in Novara: Activities and Tours

There is an abundance of activities to tick off your list in Novara, from exploring historical sites and natural wonders to wine-tasting and food tours. Here are the best things to do in Novara:

  1. Wine-tasting tour - Novara is renowned for its wines, and there are several wineries and vineyards in the region that offer wine-tasting tours.
  2. Food tours - Explore local markets, sample traditional Piedmontese dishes, and visit local bakeries and cheese shops on a guided food tour.
  3. Take a cooking class - Learn how to make traditional Italian dishes like pasta, risotto, and tiramisu from a local chef.
  4. Shop at local markets - Novara is famous for its markets. Visit the weekly market at Piazza della Repubblica, where you can find everything from fresh produce to artisanal crafts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Novara

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Novara, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time in the city.

Day 1 Visit Novara Cathedral, Castello Sforzesco, and Basilica of San Gaudenzio
Day 2 Take a day trip to Lake Orta and the Sacred Mountain of Orta
Day 3 Explore Museo Civico del Broletto and Parco dei Bambini
Day 4 Embark on a wine and food tour of local vineyards and markets
Day 5 Take a scenic cycle tour of the countryside or a hike up Monte Fenera
Day 6 Visit the nearby town of Stresa and take a boat ride on Lake Maggiore
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the local cuisine at one of Novara's many exceptional restaurants

Food and Drink Scene of Novara

The cuisine of Novara is a reflection of the region’s rich agricultural heritage and use of local ingredients. The city offers plenty of opportunities to indulge in gastronomic adventures. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Novara:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Risotto alla Novarese - A creamy rice dish made with beef marrow, onions, and red wine.
  2. Bagna Cauda - A warm dip made with butter, garlic, and anchovies, served with fresh vegetables.
  3. Paniscia Novarese - A hearty rice and bean dish, slow-cooked with sausage, lard, and vegetables.
  4. Fugascina - A popular flatbread, drizzled with olive oil and topped with sliced onion, cheese and sausage.

Local Beverages

  1. Gattinara DOCG - A robust red wine made from the Nebbiolo grape, grown in the hills of Gattinara outside Novara.
  2. Baraggia DOC - A red wine with a fruity aroma from a vine district south of Novara.
  3. Novara Beer - A locally brewed artisanal beer made from specially cultivated barley grown in the local fields.

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

Novara offers a variety of budget-friendly and luxury options to suit every traveler’s needs. The following is a list of top hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Novara.

  1. Hotel La Bussola Novara - A contemporary hotel located in the city center, featuring spacious rooms and excellent amenities.
  2. Hotel Cavour Novara - A budget-friendly hotel with clean and comfortable rooms located near the train station.
  3. B&B Il Campanile - A cozy bed and breakfast located in a historic building in the city center.

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

If you want to bring home a piece of Novara, there are plenty of unique souvenirs and local products to choose from. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  1. Artisanal Cheese - Lombardy and Piedmont are known for their exceptional cheese, so be sure to try some while you’re in Novara.
  2. Gozzo di Novara - A tasty sweetbread, made with raisins and pine nuts.
  3. Silk Ties - Novara has a long history of silk production, and you can find beautiful silk ties, scarves, and other accessories at local shops and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Novara

Novara has a rich cultural heritage, and its people are proud of their traditions. Here are some local customs and practices to keep in mind while visiting Novara:

  1. Italian Etiquette - Italians are known for their strong sense of etiquette, so be sure to greet locals with a friendly ‘buongiorno’ or ‘buonasera’ and dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
  2. Aperitivo Time - The after-work social hour in Italy, where locals gather for drinks and snacks before dinner.
  3. Piedmontese Cuisine - Like the rest of Italy, Piedmontese cuisine has a strong influence on the food in Novara. It puts a strong emphasis on the use of local ingredients and hearty dishes.

Best Time to Visit Novara

The best time to visit Novara is during the spring months (April to June) and autumn months (September to November). The weather is mild during this time, and you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the countryside and other outdoor activities. July and August are the peak tourist months, and the weather tends to be hotter and more humid.

Do’s and Don’ts of Novara

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Novara:

Do:

  1. Explore the countryside - Novara is a hub for hiking, cycling, and other outdoor adventures. Take advantage of the beautiful landscapes and take a scenic route.
  2. Try local delicacies - Piedmontese cuisine is worth exploring, and Novara has a lot to offer. From cheese to wine, there’s plenty of new flavors to try.
  3. Greet locals with a smile - Italians are friendly and welcoming, and a smile goes a long way.

Don’t:

  1. Forget to dress appropriately - When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and avoid shorts or mini-skirts.
  2. Skip tipping - Tipping is not compulsory but is appreciated in Italy, especially in restaurants and cafes.
  3. Be loud and rude in public - Italians value politeness and respect, so keep your voice down when in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Safety in Novara

Novara is considered a safe place for travelers. However, it’s advisable to take the usual precautions when traveling, such as avoiding carrying large sums of cash or expensive valuables and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places.

Health in Novara

Novara has both public and private medical facilities with trained professionals. Make sure you have travel insurance that includes medical coverage before you arrive. Also, note that you may need to take certain precautions, such as getting vaccinated, before entering Italy.

Getting to Novara: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are the different ways you can get to Novara:

Airports Near Novara

The closest airport is Milano Malpensa (MXP), which is about 20 miles away from Novara. You can take a train, bus, or taxi from the airport to the city.

Bus Stations Near Novara

Novara has a modern and efficient bus network that connects the city to other nearby towns and cities. The main bus station is located near the train station.

Other Options

Novara is well connected by train, with frequent services to major cities in Italy. You can also rent a car or take a taxi to Novara from nearby cities such as Milan, Turin, or Genoa.

How to Get Around in Novara

The easiest way to get around Novara is on foot. Most of the city’s attractions and landmarks are within walking distance of the city center. Novara also has a reliable bus system that covers most parts of the city at a reasonable cost.

Where to Go Next from Novara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re planning on exploring other Italian cities after visiting Novara, here are some nearby destinations worth considering:

  • Milan - The fashion capital of Italy, Milan brims with style, high-end shopping, and top-notch museums and galleries.
  • Turin - Located on the other side of the Piedmont region, Turin is known for its baroque architecture, local cuisine, and art.
  • Lake Como - A destination for the rich and famous, Lake Como is known for its beautiful villas, crystal clear waters, and a thriving local culture.

Conclusion

Novara is a hidden gem in northwest Italy that offers a mix of culture, history, and outdoor adventures. With its beautiful landscapes, mouth-watering cuisine, and charming town center, it’s the perfect place to explore Italy beyond the typical tourist spots. Use this guide to plan your dream trip to Novara and discover all that the city has to offer.

The Basilica of San Gaudenzio The Basilica of San Gaudenzio Duomo Duomo Abbazia di San Nazzaro della Costa Abbazia di San Nazzaro della Costa