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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