Brescia
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Brescia's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café on Corso Zanardelli, savoring freshly baked pastries and Italian coffee. After breakfast, stroll through the historic streets towards the magnificent Piazza della Loggia, admiring the Renaissance architecture that surrounds you. Don't miss the chance to visit the ancient Duomo Vecchio, a stunning round church that dates back to the 11th century.
In the afternoon, explore the Museo di Santa Giulia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the rich history and art of Brescia. Wander through its beautiful cloisters and galleries filled with ancient artifacts and contemporary exhibitions. After your museum visit, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a trattoria nearby, sampling local specialties like casoncelli and polenta.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk up to the Castello di Brescia, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city below. Afterward, dine at a rooftop restaurant, indulging in delicious regional wines and seasonal dishes. Cap off the evening with a gelato as you stroll through the illuminated streets, experiencing the vibrant nightlife of Brescia.
Begin your morning at the Accademia di Belle Arti, where you can appreciate the works of local artists and maybe even catch a workshop. Next, visit the nearby Pinacoteca Tosio Martinengo, which houses an impressive collection of Renaissance paintings. Take time to reflect on the artistry and history as you explore the various galleries.
In the afternoon, head to the Teatro Grande, an elegant opera house, to take a guided tour and learn about its fascinating history. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely stroll around the picturesque streets of the historic center, stopping to admire street art and local craft shops. Treat yourself to lunch at a bistro, where you can try traditional dishes with a modern twist.
For your evening, attend a performance at the Teatro Grande, immersing yourself in the local culture and experiencing the arts firsthand. Afterwards, visit a wine bar to sample some of the region's finest wines, paired with artisanal cheeses. End the night with a walk through the vibrant streets, soaking in the ambiance and perhaps discovering a cozy spot for a nightcap.
Take a short drive to Lake Garda, where you can start your day with a scenic boat tour on the shimmering waters. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and charming lakeside towns, making sure to snap plenty of photos. Stop at the quaint town of Sirmione to explore the historic castle and its beautiful gardens.
Spend the afternoon basking in the sun on the pebble beaches of Sirmione, where you can unwind and enjoy the tranquil waters of the lake. Alternatively, indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at a lakeside restaurant, savoring fresh fish and local wines. After lunch, consider visiting the thermal baths for a relaxing soak in the mineral-rich waters.
As the sun sets over Lake Garda, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, soaking in the beauty of the landscape. Choose a charming restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy regional dishes while watching the sunset over the lake. End your day with a gelato from a local shop before heading back to Brescia.
Begin your day with a drive to the Franciacorta wine region, known for its sparkling wines and picturesque vineyards. Visit a local winery for a guided tour, where you can learn about the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of Franciacorta wines. Enjoy a tasting session, sampling different varieties while basking in the beauty of the vineyard setting.
After your wine experience, savor a leisurely lunch at a rustic osteria, enjoying local dishes paired with the region's finest wines. Post-lunch, take a scenic bike ride through the rolling hills and vineyards, absorbing the stunning landscapes and fresh air. Stop at small villages along the way to experience the local culture and hospitality.
As the evening approaches, return to Brescia and freshen up before dinner. Choose a cozy ristorante to enjoy a meal featuring seasonal ingredients and traditional recipes. Conclude your night with a stroll through the charming streets, perhaps stopping for a nightcap at a local bar.
Set off early to Monte Isola, a beautiful island on Lake Iseo, known for its stunning landscapes and quaint villages. After taking the ferry, start your day with a hike along the scenic trails that offer panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Stop in the village of Peschiera Maraglio to explore the charming streets and enjoy a local breakfast.
Continue your exploration by renting a bike to cycle around the island, discovering hidden gems and picturesque viewpoints. Grab lunch at a lakeside trattoria, where you can savor fresh lake fish and local specialties. After lunch, visit the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Ceriola, perched on a hilltop, and marvel at its stunning architecture and views.
As you return to Brescia, reflect on your day filled with nature and adventure. Once back in the city, enjoy a traditional Italian dinner at a local pizzeria, relishing in the flavors of authentic wood-fired pizza. Finish your evening with a peaceful walk through the city center, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Kick off your day with a visit to a local market, such as Mercato di Brescia, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and aromas of fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with the friendly vendors, sampling cheeses, cured meats, and seasonal fruits. After your market adventure, return to your accommodation to prepare for a cooking class.
Join a cooking class led by a local chef, where you'll learn to make traditional Brescia dishes using fresh ingredients from the market. Enjoy the hands-on experience of crafting pasta, sauces, and desserts while gaining insight into Italian culinary techniques. After cooking, savor the fruits of your labor during a communal meal with fellow participants.
In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Brescia, reflecting on your culinary experience. Stop at a local pastry shop to indulge in traditional desserts like torta di rose or spongata. Conclude your day with a glass of grappa, toasting to the delicious memories created.
Start your day with a visit to the Roman Theatre of Brescia, where you can explore the ruins of this ancient structure and imagine the performances that once took place here. Nearby, visit the remains of the Temple of Vespasian, a stunning example of Roman architecture that dates back to the 1st century AD. Take a moment to appreciate the history that surrounds you as you walk among these ancient artifacts.
After your morning of exploration, head to the Museo della Città, where you can delve deeper into Brescia's rich past through artifacts, exhibitions, and informative displays. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, sampling local dishes as you recharge for the afternoon. Post-lunch, visit the nearby Piazza del Foro, where you can see the remnants of ancient Roman buildings and the bustling life of the city.
As evening approaches, return to the historic center for dinner at an elegant restaurant, enjoying dishes that celebrate the region's culinary heritage. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the beauty of Brescia at night. Consider stopping by a local bar for a nightcap, enjoying the lively atmosphere of the city.
Begin your day with a visit to the vibrant Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, where you can browse through a mix of local boutiques and international brands. Stop for a coffee at one of the charming cafes lining the street, watching the world go by as you plan your shopping route. Continue your exploration by visiting artisanal shops to discover unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.
After lunch at a nearby trattoria, head to the historic Mercato delle Erbe, where locals gather to shop for fresh produce, cheeses, and other delicacies. Engage with vendors, sampling local products and perhaps picking up some items for a picnic. Spend the afternoon enjoying the lively atmosphere and soaking in the local culture.
As the day winds down, find a cozy restaurant for dinner, opting for a meal made with fresh ingredients purchased at the market. After dining, take a stroll through the city center, enjoying the vibrant nightlife and perhaps stopping for a gelato. Conclude your day by visiting a local bar for a drink, sharing stories of your shopping adventures.
Treat yourself to a rejuvenating morning at a local spa, where you can unwind with a massage or facial using traditional Italian products. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere as you relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle of sightseeing. After your treatment, savor a light breakfast at the spa café, featuring fresh juices and healthy options.
Continue your relaxation by visiting a nearby thermal bath, where you can soak in the healing mineral waters and enjoy various wellness treatments. Spend the afternoon pampering yourself, alternating between saunas, hot tubs, and relaxation areas. For lunch, indulge in a healthy meal at the thermal bath's restaurant, focusing on fresh, local ingredients.
In the evening, enjoy a light dinner at a nearby bistro, where you can savor a selection of fresh salads and seafood dishes. After dinner, take a peaceful walk through the nearby park, reflecting on your day of relaxation. End your evening with a soothing herbal tea at a local café, ensuring a restful night ahead.