• 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

The Wine Valleys

A guide to the most picturesque valleys and villages in italy and their fine wines
  • Lifestyle
The Wine Valleys

Historic windows, a memory of Lombardy's expertise

Historic shops selling hats and flowers, pastry shops, trattorias and workers' cooperatives, shops selling musical instruments, butchers and printers.
  • Lifestyle
Historic windows, a memory of Lombardy's expertise

July 2025 Events in Lombardy

The Lombardy summer shines bright in July, with concerts, art events and experiences to reconnect you with nature
  • Lifestyle
July 2025 Events in Lombardy

Travelling with books

Projects for bookworms
  • Lifestyle
Viaggiare con i libri

Milan from the Top

With its skyscrapers to challenge the dizzy heights of the Duomo and the surrounding mountains ...
  • Lifestyle
Torre Allianz

Travelling on historic trains

Vintage trains offer unprecedented views of Lombardy's landscapes, for a priceless experience that combines history and beauty.
  • Lifestyle
In viaggio sui treni storici

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

Brera district

The artistic heart and the bohemian soul of the city
  • Lifestyle
Brera District

Picnic time in Lombardy

Sunshine, warmth, green grass and a delicious spread: it's the perfect time for a picnic in Lombardy
  • Lifestyle
Picnic time in Lombardy

The fountains and pools of Lombardy's cities

Reflections and plays of water in the fountains of Lombardy, works of art signed by famous architects and sculptors from every age
  • Lifestyle
Le fontane, specchi d’acqua delle città lombarde

Lake Garda and Brescia itinerary

Three days to make you fall in love with Brescia and its beautiful lakeside locations
  • Lifestyle
3 days in Lake Garda and Brescia

5 glamorous experiences in Lombardy

Lombardy offers glamorous experiences that combine the allure of luxury with the discovery of natural and cultural treasures
  • Lifestyle
5 glamorous experiences in Lombardy - Barca a vela Lago di Como

inLombardia 杂志

  • Lifestyle
inLombardia 杂志

Made in Brianza

Furnishings, design, textiles, gastronomy. Brianza is - and always has been - synonymous with “know-how”.
  • Lifestyle
Molteni Museum

Sondrio in a weekend

Millennial traditions, roads to discover on foot or by bike, unique flavors. Sondrio, the gate of Valtellina
  • Lifestyle
Sondrio in a weekend

Corso vercelli

Shopping in relax ... a few steps from the center of Milan
  • Lifestyle
Corso Vercelli

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

Local markets papiniano fauche etc

If you are looking for something, be it food, clothing or antiques, you can find it at the market!
  • Lifestyle
Local Markets (Papiniano, Fauché etc)

Cremona’s Guest Book

The emotions of those who decide to visit Cremona
  • Lifestyle
Cremona’s Guest Book

Pavia in a weekend

On the trail of the Longobardi or among the cloisters of the University, without forgetting flavors and traditions
  • Lifestyle
Pavia in a weekend