Deciding to spend the summer holidays in Lombardy, a region located in northern Italy, offers a unique combination of culture, history, natural beauty and a lively urban atmosphere. Here are some reasons to visit Lombardy and some advice on what to see:
- Milan: The capital of Lombardy is a trendy and cosmopolitan city known for its design, fashion and art. Visit the Milan Cathedral, one of the most extraordinary examples of Gothic architecture, and stroll through the elegant shopping streets of Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga. Be sure to admire Leonardo da Vinci’s painting “The Last Supper” in the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
- Lake Como: Located on the foothills of the Alps, Lake Como is one of the most beautiful attractions in Lombardy. See the picturesque coastal towns such as Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio, and enjoy the azure waters of the lake. You can take a boat to explore the charming villages, visit historic villas and go hiking in the surrounding mountains.
- Bergamo: This medieval city is divided into two parts: the Upper Town and the Lower Town. The Upper Town, located on the hill, is surrounded by ancient walls and offers a spectacular panoramic view. Explore the narrow cobbled streets, visit the majestic Piazza Vecchia and climb the Torre del Campanone to admire the view. Be sure to taste the famous local dessert, polenta e osei.
- Mantua: Located in the southern part of Lombardy, Mantua is a city of art with an exceptional historical and cultural heritage. Explore the Doge’s Palace, which houses wonderful frescoed rooms, and visit the Casa di Rigoletto, inspired by Verdi’s opera. Stroll along the city’s canals and gardens, including the romantic Lago di Mezzo.
- Valle Camonica: This mountainous valley is known for its rich historical and artistic heritage. Here are the rock carvings of Capo di Ponte, an archaeological site from the Stone Age which has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You can visit the museums that tell the story of these engravings and go hiking in untouched nature.
- Lombard cuisine: Lombardy is famous for its rich and tasty cuisine. Savor traditional dishes such as risottos, including the famous Milanese risotto, and cheeses such as gorgonzola and taleggio. Don’t forget to taste the local cured meats, such as bresaola and cotechino.
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