• Lifestyle

Pavia in a weekend

On the trail of the Longobardi or among the cloisters of the University, without forgetting flavors and traditions

Its courtyards have been treaded by Ugo Foscolo and Alessandro Volta. We are talking about one of the world’s oldest universities (1361), which has enlivened the city of Pavia for the last and 700 years.

As you roam among the showcases of its museums, from that of comparative anatomy to Volta’s scientific cabinet, everything exudes science and history. Including the 18th century Botanical Gardens, where you can enjoy a break in the shade of a 45-metre high centuries-old plane tree.

In the city of Kings. The Lombard greatness (572-774) has left a strong sense of pride among the citizens of Pavia, as well as several testimonies in the city, like the three Crypts of Santa Maria alle Cacce, San Giovanni Domnarum and Sant’Eusebio, with magnificent “fibula” and “waterleaf” capitals. It is inspiring to admire from up close the Teodote stone plutei and the funerary gold jewelry, preserved at the Musei Civici del Castello Visconteo, a red brick fortress with huge towers at the wall corners.

History seen from up close. It happens in the Romanesque church of San Pietro in Ciel d’Oro, which houses the remains of St. Augustine. Standing above the relics, the Arca, sculpted in 1362, stands out in its Carrara marble whiteness. It features reliefs depicting the Saint’s life. Another appointment with history is inside the Basilica di San Michele Maggiore, one of the best preserved Romanesque buildings in Europe. Here, in 1155, Frederick Barbarossa was crowned King of Italy, giving Pavia all the allure of a capital city.

Water and lights. You can navigate the river on boats known as “barcè” or narrow rowing boats, or cross it over one of the two bridges. The river Ticino is the large blue thoroughfare where you can discover the relaxed side of Pavia in the quaint Borgo Ticino. After dark, the best spot is the Ponte Coperto (covered bridge). From there, take a look at the arches of the nearby Ponte della Libertà.

Aperitif in the Oltrepò. Food, wine, culture, history and environment: a bold combination that enhances the excellence of a land of fine wines and ancient traditions. Among these, the salami of Varzi, a gastronomic gem of the Pavia Apennine, and the Cruasé, a traditional method rosé obtained from Pinot nero grapes grown in the Oltrepò. An excellent starting point for exploring the Valli del Vino. Or remember to mark your calendar for an event not to be missed: “Autunno Pavese Doc”. In search of flavours worth rediscovering.

On the same topic

Como in a weekend

A mediaeval heart for the city that loves science and design with light. Discover Como in 48 hours. Without ever losing sight of the lake
  • Lifestyle
Como in a weekend

Mantua and Cremona

Two towns, two UNESCO heritage sites. Tips for a weekend between Mantua and Cremona
  • Lifestyle
Scorcio Mantova

Masterpieces of cinema shot in Lombardy

The most beautiful natural landscapes and the urban cityscapes of Lombardy in the films of both Italian and foreign directors
  • Lifestyle
Masterpieces of cinema shot in Lombardy

10 good reasons to visit Milan

10 suggestions we are sure you will fall in love with Milan
  • Lifestyle
10 good reasons to visit Milan

Franciacorta outlet village

Sparkling shopping: taste the most important fashion brands and Brescia's wine excellence
  • Lifestyle
Franciacorta Outlet Village

SPECIAL OPENING DAYS AT THE VIOLIN'S MUSEUM

  • Lifestyle
SPECIAL OPENING DAYS AT THE VIOLIN'S MUSEUM

Travelling by underground in Lombardy: between history and curiosity

The Milan and Brescia underground lines: one is the longest underground railway network in Italy, and the other is the least populated of the seven cities in Italy to have an underground railway network. 
  • Lifestyle
Viaggiare in metropolitana in Lombardia, tra storia e curiosità

Mantua in a weekend

An unmistakable skyline reflects the history of the city of the Gonzaga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover Mantua in 48 hours
  • Lifestyle
Mantua in a weekend

Monza in a weekend

From the Treasure of Theodelinda to the thrill of the Autodromo. Discover Monza in 48 hours: a twospeed city. With amazing masterpieces
  • Lifestyle
Monza in a weekend

Welcome Card

Guided tour every day (also in the week-end) at 2.30 p.m.
  • Lifestyle
Piazza della Pace

Valentine's Day: a date with love in Lombardy

Destinations, events, and original ideas to celebrate the day of lovers in Lombardy
  • Lifestyle
Valentine's Day: a date with love in Lombardy - valmalencoskiresort.com

Terraces and breath-taking views in Lombardy

Scopri la lombardia attraverso i suoi meravigliosi panorami.
  • Lifestyle
Terrazze e panorami mozzafiato in Lombardia

Brescia and Lake Iseo itinerary

Nicknamed the "Lioness of Italy", it displays great tourist qualities thanks to its rich artistic and environmental heritage
  • Lifestyle
2 days in Brescia and Lake Iseo

From Varese to Lake Maggiore

Discovering Varese and Lake Maggiore in 72 hours. A long weekend in the countryside
  • Lifestyle
Da Varese al Lago Maggiore

10 Good Reasons to...

Fashion, design, food, lakes… a few suggestions for your stay in Lombardy
  • Lifestyle
10 good reasons to choose and visit the land

Events in Lombardy in May 2025

May enchants Lombardy, with opportunities to explore the outdoors, festivals and art and flower events
  • Lifestyle
Events in Lombardy in May 2025

Bergamo itinerary

Upper and lower, the city that combines the opposites will satisfy your expectations
  • Lifestyle
Bergamo day trip

What to see in Lombardy

A remarkable artistic heritage, a variety of landscapes, rich cultural traditions... all waiting to be discovered!
  • Lifestyle
What to see in Lombardy

Milan: six trend-setting neighbourhoods

Art and architecture. But also sports and good food. Discover six neighbourhoods with us where Milan sets the trend.
  • Lifestyle
Milan: six trend-setting neighbourhoods

Bergamo: shopping and flavours

Shopping in Bergamo is divided between Città Alta and Città Bassa. The promise: artisan shops, historic cafes, fashionable shop windows
  • Lifestyle
Bergamo: shopping and flavours