Things To Do
in Besana in Brianza
Besana in Brianza is a small Lombard commune perched in the Brianzan countryside just northeast of Monza. Its quiet streets, stone churches, and green hills give it a timeless small-town charm. The area blends agricultural heritage with easy access to Lombardy’s cultural hubs.
Visitors are drawn by peaceful countryside walks, local trattorias, and a convenient base for exploring the surrounding lakes and villas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Besana in Brianza and settle into your accommodations. Take a leisurely stroll around the town to get your bearings, enjoying the local architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Stop by a local café for a traditional Italian breakfast of cornetto and cappuccino.
Visit the Museo della Civiltà Contadina to learn about the agricultural history of the area through its engaging exhibits. Explore the charming streets and perhaps pick up some local artisanal products, such as cheeses or pastries. Take a moment to enjoy a picnic at Parco della Valle.
Dine at a local trattoria to savor authentic regional dishes like risotto or polenta. Engage with the locals who might share stories about the town's rich heritage. After dinner, take a quiet walk under the stars, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of Besana.
After breakfast, take a short train ride to Monza, renowned for its grand park and historic sites. Visit the Royal Villa of Monza, a magnificent structure surrounded by beautiful gardens. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the expansive park, taking in the stunning greenery.
Explore the Autodromo Nazionale Monza, where you can learn about the history of motorsport in Italy. Have lunch at a café within the park, savoring local delicacies while enjoying the scenic views. Visit the Duomo di Monza, known for its stunning architecture and significant history.
Return to Besana and enjoy dinner at a cozy pizzeria. Share stories about your day and try different regional pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven. Wind down with a gelato while enjoying the lively town square.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee shop drink | $3-5 |
| 🧀Local cheese or groceries | $5-12 |
| 🥗Lunch for two | $25-40 |
| 🎟️Movie ticket | $10-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, picturesque towns and countryside
- Close to Monza and Milan for day trips
- Limited nightlife in the town center
- Some services limited outside peak tourist seasons
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Besana in Brianza
Visit one of these nice places.
Old stone façades, narrow lanes, and a charming central square ideal for early-morning photography.
Riverside trails and gentle bridges offering reflective scenes at sunrise or golden hour.
Sweeping panoramas across the Lombardy countryside, especially vibrant at sunset.
Food in Besana in Brianza
Besana in Brianza Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Stuffed pasta pockets typically served with butter, sage, and a light meat filling, a staple of Lombard home cooking.
Must-Try!
Creamy saffron-infused risotto often paired with braised meats or ossobuco.
Coarse cornmeal polenta, usually enriched with chestnut flour and butter or cheeses.
Slow-braised veal shanks paired with a rich risotto, a regional classic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering seasonal produce, cheeses, bread, and prepared foods from local producers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Buongiorno or Buonasera; a polite handshake is common when meeting new people.
Keep hands visible on the table; meals are enjoyed at a relaxed pace; tipping is modest and polite.
Safety
Tipping in Besana in Brianza
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; rounding up or a small tip for good service is appreciated but not required.
Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; small shops may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with potential humidity; carry water, sunscreen, and light clothing; occasional thunderstorms in the late afternoon.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for scenic drives and hiking; harvest markets appear in towns nearby.
Cool to cold with possible fog in valleys; expect shorter daylight hours; cozy fireside meals in local restaurants.
Gentle temperatures and blooming countryside; great for outdoor activities and garden visits.
Besana in Brianza at Night
Hiking in Besana in Brianza
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible trails with panoramic vistas over the Lombardy plain; well-marked paths.
Extensive green space with forest trails, lakes, and historic villas.
Relaxed lakeside routes, ideal for half-day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Besana in Brianza by plane.
Major international airport about 40-60 km from Besana; good rail and road connections to Lombardy.
Close to Milan, roughly 25-40 km away; convenient for domestic and European flights.
Bergamo airport about 60-70 km away; affordable options with rail/bus links to Lombardy.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families with children; good schools and safe neighborhoods.
A stable retiree population; calm lifestyle in the countryside.
A portion of residents commutes to Milan or Monza for work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular sport; local clubs at amateur and semi-professional levels.
Hilly terrain and scenic lanes draw cyclists of all levels.
Accessible near lakes in the region with gentle water activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Besana in Brianza.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in most restaurants; look for risottos, roasted vegetables, polenta-based dishes, and seasonal salads. When in doubt, ask for no meat using 'senza carne'.