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Hilltop towns of Lombardy

Why visit Hilltop towns of Lombardy the first time?

Review by Baldassarri Giuseppe

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Exploring the hilltop towns of Lombardy is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the region's rich history, charming architecture, and delectable cuisine. Here's a suggested itinerary to discover the attractions, local food, and wine specialties, along with information on how to get there and where to stay:

1. Day 1: Milan - Start your journey in Milan, the capital of Lombardy. Spend the day exploring iconic landmarks like the Duomo di Milano, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Sforza Castle. Enjoy a traditional Milanese dinner at a local trattoria.

2. Day 2: Bergamo - Take a short train ride from Milan to Bergamo, a picturesque hilltop town. Explore the Città Alta (Upper Town), a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and stunning views. Don't miss the Piazza Vecchia and the Colleoni Chapel. Indulge in local specialties like casoncelli (stuffed pasta) and polenta e osei (a sweet dessert).

3. Day 3: Como - Travel to the town of Como, located on the shores of Lake Como. Admire the beautiful lake views and visit the impressive Como Cathedral. Take a boat ride to Bellagio, often referred to as the "Pearl of Lake Como," and explore its charming streets and gardens. Taste local delicacies such as risotto with perch and missoltino (sundried lake fish).

4. Day 4: Mantua - Head east to Mantua, a city surrounded by three lakes. Visit the UNESCO-listed Historic Center of Mantua, including the magnificent Palazzo Ducale and the Rotonda di San Lorenzo. Sample local specialties like tortelli di zucca (pumpkin-filled pasta) and sbrisolona (a crumbly cake).

5. Day 5: Cremona - Travel to Cremona, a city renowned for its violin-making tradition. Explore the Piazza del Comune, the Torrazzo (the tallest brick bell tower in Europe), and the Stradivari Museum. Don't miss trying local dishes such as torrone (nougat) and mostarda (fruit preserves).

6. Day 6: Pavia - Make your way to Pavia, a historic town known for its medieval university and beautiful architecture. Visit the Certosa di Pavia, a stunning monastery with intricate decorations. Indulge in regional specialties such as risotto alla Certosina and busecca (a traditional tripe dish).

7. Day 7: Return to Milan - Take a leisurely morning in Pavia before returning to Milan to catch your flight or continue your Italian adventure.

Accommodation: Each town offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Consider staying in the historical centers to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.

Duration: This itinerary can be completed in approximately 6-7 days, depending on the pace of your exploration and the time you allocate to each town.

Transportation: You can easily travel between these hilltop towns by train or bus, as they are well-connected. Consider purchasing a regional train pass for convenient travel within Lombardy.

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Giuseppe Baldassarri Destination Marketing & Management Consultant

Let’s Create Your Italy

Top Italy Things to Do: Explore the Best of Italy
Narration by Baldassarri Giuseppe, Destination Marketing & Management Consultant
"Italy Things to Do | Discover Italy’s Essence"

Introduction to Italy: A Gateway to Culture and History

Italy is not just a destination—it’s a dialogue between the past and present, a journey that begins the moment curiosity awakens. It calls to the traveler’s deeper sense of self, offering not only places to see but emotions to feel. From the cadence of daily life in a sunlit piazza to the majesty of ancient ruins, Italy is a gateway to both discovery and connection.

The Rich Historical Background of Italy

Every stone in Italy tells a story. It’s a country where history is not confined to museums—it lives in the streets, whispers from the amphitheaters, and glows in cathedral stained glass. For the thoughtful traveler, these aren’t just relics of the past—they’re meaningful encounters that spark reflection and awe.

Why Italy is a Must-Visit Destination

Italy moves people, not just through beauty, but through the depth of experience. It satisfies a range of human desires: adventure, meaning, indulgence, and inspiration. Whether it’s a solo traveler seeking introspection or a business guest exploring opportunities, Italy adapts and responds to what each visitor needs, often before they even realize it themselves.

Top Cities to Visit and Things to Do

Rome: The Eternal City

Rome doesn’t ask for your attention—it commands it. Walking through its streets, you're enveloped in a powerful blend of empire, elegance, and everyday life. The Coliseum, the Vatican, the fountains—they’re not just stops on a tour, they’re moments of wonder that shift your inner perspective.

Florence: The Cradle of the Renaissance

Florence awakens a traveler’s imagination. This city breathes art, and its streets are an invitation to think, to feel, and to create. Whether gazing at Michelangelo’s David or sipping wine under Tuscan skies, Florence offers the kind of depth that lingers long after your visit ends.

Italy's Natural Wonders and Landscapes

The Majestic Dolomites

There’s something transformative about standing before the Dolomites. These towering peaks inspire both humility and exhilaration. They’re a space where the external journey meets the internal, where stillness and movement co-exist in sublime balance.

The Beautiful Amalfi Coast

This coastline doesn’t just please the eye—it stirs the heart. Clinging to cliffs and kissed by Mediterranean sun, the Amalfi Coast is a sensory poem. Every winding road, every sea breeze, speaks to life’s richness and the joy of slowing down to savor it.

Culinary Delights: Italy Things to Do for Food Lovers

A Journey Through Italian Cuisine

Food in Italy is not merely nourishment—it’s a narrative, a celebration, and often, a love letter to tradition. Sharing a meal becomes a bridge to understanding the culture, the people, and the land itself. It’s where authenticity meets generosity, plate by plate.

Must-Try Dishes Across Italy

From truffle risotto in the north to Neapolitan pizza in the south, every dish tells a regional story. Each bite is a chance to experience place and memory simultaneously, reminding us how powerful and emotional taste can be when rooted in identity.

Cultural Experiences: Engaging with Italian Art and Festivals

Festivals in Italy are not staged performances—they are living traditions. Whether it’s a medieval reenactment in Siena or a contemporary art show in Venice, these events pull you in, not as a spectator, but as a participant in something timeless and heartfelt.

Travel Tips for Exploring Italy

To fully enjoy Italy, travel with an open mind and a responsive heart. The most enriching journeys are not always the ones most planned—they’re the ones where you allow space for emotion, spontaneity, and unexpected connections. Italy rewards those who travel with awareness, curiosity, and care.

Conclusion: Discover Italy’s Essence

Italy is more than a list of attractions. It’s an emotional experience that evolves with every step, every conversation, every sensation. Italy is the ultimate destination for those who seek not just to see but to feel. And its essence? It lies in how deeply it moves you.

– Baldassarri Giuseppe

Hilltop towns of Lombardy › Italy Travel Planner