Excursions From Milan: The Best Day Trips Around Milan

Lombardy, a region in northern Italy, is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes. From the majestic lakes to the picturesque towns, Lombardy has something to offer every kind of traveler. In this article, we’ll delve into the hidden gems of Lombardy, exploring 12 must-visit destinations that will make your trip an unforgettable experience.

1. Monza: A Treasure Trove of History and Beauty

Located just outside Milan, Monza is a small town with great artistic and historical value. Visit the Royal Villa, a stunning neoclassical palace built by the Habsburgs, which boasts one of the most beautiful gardens in the world. Don’t miss the Duomo, with its Chapel of Queen Theodolinda, and the Museum of the Duomo, which hosts ancient works from Roman late and high Middle Ages.

Monza is also famous for being the site where the first Formula One World Championship was held in 1950. Today, you can visit the Autodromo Nazionale di Monza, a world-renowned racing circuit that hosted the F1 event. Visitors can take a guided tour of the circuit and learn about its rich history.

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2. Mantova: A Renaissance Gem

Mantua is a city governed for almost 400 years by the Gonzaga family. Marvel at Palazzo Te, a monumental building built between 1524 and 1534 by Giulio Romano, and Palazzo Ducale, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture known as Reggia Gonzaga. Visit Piazza delle Erbe, with its ancient palaces, clock tower, and Rotonda of San Lorenzo.

Mantua is also famous for its beautiful parks and gardens, including the Giardino del Quarto, which offers breathtaking views of the city. Visitors can take a romantic stroll through the park’s picturesque paths and admire the stunning architecture.

3. Como: A City Steeped in History and Beauty

Como is a beautiful city situated on the shores of Lake Como, an enchanting town that has enchanted artists for centuries. Don’t miss the stunning Duomo, which varies from Gothic to Renaissance styles, and the Broletto, a medieval building original seat of the City Council of Como.

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Visitors can take a boat ride on Lake Como, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and picturesque towns. The lake is also famous for its beautiful villas and gardens, such as Villa Carlotta, which features stunning botanical gardens and an impressive art collection.

4. Terme di Bormio: A Relaxing Getaway

Located at 1225 meters altitude in the heart of the Alps, Bormio is famous for its thermal waters, already popular among the Romans. Unmissable are the free public baths, Vasche di Leonardo, and the Museum of Civic History, hosted in an ancient patrician house.

Bormio is also a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. Visitors can take a scenic hike through the surrounding mountains or visit the nearby Lake Odero for some relaxation time.

5. Lodi: A City of Beauty and History

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Lodi is a charming city founded in 1158 by Federico Barbarossa. Visit the magnificent Piazza della Vittoria or Piazza Maggiore, which conserves its history and beauty in the monuments that identify it. Don’t miss the Cathedral of the Assumed Virgin and the Duomo of Lodi, the oldest building in the city.

Lodi is also famous for its beautiful textiles and lace-making traditions. Visitors can take a guided tour of the local textile factories or attend a weaving workshop to learn about this ancient craft.

6. Cremona: A City of Music and Beauty

Cremona is an elegant city that will stun you with its cultural heritage and beauty. Visit the Torrazzo di Cremona, a campanile (bell tower) of the highest Europe, which offers breathtaking views from its 502 steps. Marvel at the Cathedral, adorned with elements Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque.

Cremona is also famous for being the birthplace of the Stradivarius violin, one of the most iconic instruments in music history. Visitors can visit the Museo del Violino, which features an impressive collection of violins and musical instruments.

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7. Lake Garda: The Largest Lake in Italy

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy, surrounded by enchanting towns such as Sirmione, Desenzano, Peschiera del Garda, or Riva del Garda. Take a boat ride to explore the Marmitte dei Giganti (giants’ pits), natural wells carved into the rock that offer a very suggestive landscape.

Visitors can also take a scenic hike through the surrounding mountains or visit one of the many beautiful towns on the lake’s shores, such as Sirmione, which features stunning villas and gardens.

8. Varese and Estensi Gardens: A Little Versailles of Milan

Varese is an unmissable destination in the area, famous above all for its Estensi Gardens, a beautiful park characterized by pathways surrounded by carpins, low-growing plants, fountains, lakes, and breathtaking views. Visit Palazzo Estense (surrounded by Park), built around 1700 and home to Francesco III d’Este.

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The gardens are also home to several sculptures and fountains, including the famous “Garden of Versailles” fountain, which is a perfect spot for a romantic stroll.

9. Lecco: The City of Promessi sposi

Lecco is a city that offers cultural itineraries on the path of Alessandro Manzoni, from Villa Manzoni to Caleotto, where he spent his childhood years, to the Museum Manzoniano, which hosts original manuscripts and personal works by the same. Don’t miss the “Ascent” of Matitone: the campanile (bell tower) of the Basilica of San Nicolò.

Lecco is also famous for its beautiful lakefront promenade, which offers breathtaking views of Lake Como. Visitors can take a scenic boat ride or stroll along the promenade and enjoy the charming atmosphere.

10. Bergamo: A City Steeped in History and Beauty

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Bergamo is a scenic city with valleys filled with flowers and exotic plants, small paths, and beautiful villas and gardens on Lake Maggiore. Visit the Borromean Islands, including Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isola Bella, and marvel at the 16th-century Palazzo Borromeo.

Bergamo is also famous for its medieval old town, which features narrow streets and charming piazzas. Visitors can take a scenic hike through the surrounding mountains or visit one of the many beautiful villas and gardens in the area.

11. Lugano: A Swiss-Italian Gem

Lugano is a charming city circled by mountains, offering breathtaking views of Lake Lugano. Visit the baroque Palazzo Riva, the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, built in Romanesque style and renewed in Renaissance style, within which is located the beautiful Chapel of Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Lugano is also famous for its stunning villas and gardens, such as Villa Monastero, which features beautiful botanical gardens and an impressive art collection. Visitors can take a scenic hike through the surrounding mountains or visit one of the many charming towns on the lake’s shores.

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12. Milan: The Heart of Lombardy

Milan, a cosmopolitan metropolis and international economic center, full of art, culture, and history, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Visit the Duomo, Sforzesco Castle, Teatro alla Scala, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and many other beautiful attractions scattered throughout the city.

Milan is also famous for its fashion industry, which has made it a hub for designers and boutiques around the world. Visitors can take a guided tour of the local fashion factories or attend a fashion show to see the latest designs on the catwalk.

In conclusion, Lombardy is a region that offers something for everyone, from history and art to nature and outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in visiting beautiful towns and cities, exploring stunning landscapes, or simply relaxing in a charming setting, Lombardy has plenty to offer. So why not start planning your trip today and discover the hidden gems of this incredible region?

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