Things To Do
in Pavia
Pavia is a compact Lombard city perched along the Ticino River, renowned for its historic university and well-preserved medieval core. Its streets thread past the Duomo, Castello Visconteo, and ancient churches, linking centuries of learning, commerce, and culture. The Certosa di Pavia and surrounding countryside make excellent day trips from the city center.
With a lively student vibe and relaxed pace, Pavia blends old-world charm with easy access to Milan and Varese.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Pavia and check into your accommodation, then take a leisurely stroll through the historic center. Visit the iconic Pavia Cathedral, a magnificent structure that showcases stunning Gothic architecture. Don’t forget to stop by the nearby Piazza della Vittoria, where you can enjoy a coffee at a quaint café while soaking in the ambiance of the city.
After lunch, head towards the Visconti Castle, a beautiful fortress that offers insight into Pavia's rich history. Spend your afternoon exploring its gardens and museums, which house impressive art collections. Take your time wandering the cobbled streets nearby, discovering local artisan shops and hidden gems.
As the sun sets, choose a traditional trattoria for dinner, immersing yourself in the local cuisine. Sample dishes such as risotto alla Pavia or tortelli di patate, paired with a glass of Lombardy’s finest wine. Cap off the night with a leisurely walk along the Ticino River, enjoying the scenic views.
Start your day with a visit to the Certosa di Pavia, an impressive monastery located just outside the city. Arrive early to appreciate the tranquility of the surroundings and take in the intricate details of the architecture and artwork. Explore the peaceful gardens and take your time to soak in the spiritual atmosphere of this historic site.
Return to Pavia for lunch and then visit the University of Pavia, one of the oldest universities in Europe, renowned for its stunning campus. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and significance, while also seeing the grand libraries and classrooms. Spend your afternoon at the nearby Botanic Garden, where you can relax amidst a variety of local and exotic plants.
For dinner, head to a pizzeria and try the local variation of Neapolitan pizza, known for its crispy crust and fresh toppings. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as locals gather for their evening meals, giving you a taste of authentic Italian life. After dinner, explore the vibrant nightlife scene at local bars or outdoor squares.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍝Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $4-6 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🧀Grocery item (basic) | $6-12 |
| 🍷Glass of wine in a bar | $5-9 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable historic center with easy access to nearby attractions
- Rich university heritage and lively student atmosphere
- Can feel quiet on Sundays outside the core areas
- Some attractions require short trips outside the city (e.g., Certosa di Pavia) for a fuller experience
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Pavia
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic square framed by the Cathedral towers, ideal for golden-hour photos and street scenes.
Historic wooden bridge with reflections on the river; perfect for moody water-angle shots.
Medieval castle with a moat and courtyard; dramatic exteriors and interior halls for architecture photography.
Ancient church with a serene interior and important frescoed elements; great for detail shots.
Food in Pavia
Pavia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Saffron-infused risotto, a Lombardy staple widely available in Pavia’s trattorie.
Must-Try!
Slow-braised veal shanks paired with saffron-infused risotto.
Breaded veal cutlet, a classic Milanese-inspired dish found in many city restaurants.
Polenta served with slow-cooked beef braise, a comforting winter favorite in the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic covered market offering fresh produce, cheeses, and regional specialties.
Weekly outdoor market featuring seasonal fruits, vegetables, breads, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple buongiorno or buon pomeriggio in shops and cafés goes a long way.
Modest dress is appropriate for churches and religious sites; remove hats when inside.
Cafés are busy in the late afternoon; business hours can be slightly flexible, but plan visits accordingly.
Quiet conversations in residential areas after 10pm are appreciated; smoking is common in cafés where permitted.
Safety
Tipping in Pavia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Italy; rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip for good service is common in tourist areas.
Cash and cards (credit/debit) are widely accepted; many places support contactless payments and some small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with bright sunshine; stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and seek shade in the historic center or along the Ticino river.
Mild temperatures and colorful foliage; ideal for walking tours and outdoor markets.
Cool to cold with occasional fog; many indoor attractions are welcoming, and festive markets appear around holidays.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming trees; perfect for walking, cycling, and photography along river paths.
Pavia at Night
Hiking in Pavia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate trails along the Ticino River offering birdwatching and scenic views; suitable for day trips from Pavia.
Rolling hills nearby with forested sections and viewpoints; a pleasant hike within a short drive from the city.
Airports
How to reach Pavia by plane.
Closest major airport; good domestic and European connections; about a 60-90 minute drive or rail transfer from Pavia.
Larger international hub with extensive connections; about 1.5-2 hours by train or car from Pavia.
Alternative international airport with regional and some international flights; typically a 1.5-2.5 hour journey to Pavia by train/car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large share of the population, contributing to a vibrant, youthful atmosphere and events calendar.
Long-standing residents with ties to the city’s cultural and academic life.
Older residents who value the city’s pace, parks, and historic architecture.
Tourists drawn to the university heritage, churches, and nearby countryside.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular spectator sport; local teams and university clubs compete in regional leagues.
Riverside trails and city parks make cycling and running favorite activities among residents and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pavia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy risottos, polenta-based plates, pasta with tomato and mushroom sauces, and seasonal vegetables in most trattorie; communicate preferences in Italian using phrases like vorrei qualcosa vegetariano (I’d like something vegetarian) and senza carne (no meat).