Somma Lombardo

Day Trips

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Somma Lombardo, where you can admire the medieval architecture and quaint shops. Visit the Basilica di San Giovanni Battista, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture that dates back to the 12th century. As you wander, grab a traditional Italian breakfast of cornetto and cappuccino at a local café.

After soaking in the history, head to the nearby Castello Visconti, where you can explore the ancient fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. Take a break for lunch at a family-run trattoria, sampling authentic Lombard cuisine such as risotto or polenta. If time allows, visit the Museo Civico, which showcases local art and history.

As dusk falls, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a restaurant that offers outdoor seating, allowing you to savor regional dishes while watching the sunset. After dinner, take a stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the ambiance and perhaps stopping for gelato. End your evening with a nightcap at a cozy wine bar, where you can sample local wines.

Begin your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby Parco del Ticino, where you can immerse yourself in the lush landscapes and spot diverse wildlife. The trails are well-marked and offer varying levels of difficulty, ensuring a suitable path for all hikers. Pack a light snack to enjoy amidst the beauty of nature.

Continue your adventure by visiting the nearby Lake Maggiore, where you can relax on the shores or rent a kayak to explore the tranquil waters. Grab a casual lunch at a lakeside café, enjoying fresh seafood and local specialties. Afterward, take a scenic boat ride to the beautiful Borromean Islands, famous for their stunning gardens and historic villas.

Return to Somma Lombardo in the evening and treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant that specializes in local fish dishes. As you dine, reflect on the beauty of the day spent in nature and the stunning views you experienced. Cap off the night with a leisurely walk through the town, perhaps stopping to enjoy the lively atmosphere of a local piazza.

Start your morning by visiting the bustling weekly market in Somma Lombardo, where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies. Engage with the friendly vendors, sampling cheeses and cured meats as you explore the vibrant stalls. This is a great opportunity to pick up unique souvenirs or ingredients for a picnic later.

After the market, head to the nearby town of Castelletto sopra Ticino for lunch at a charming bistro that focuses on seasonal and local ingredients. Post-lunch, visit the local artisan workshops to see traditional crafts being made, from pottery to textiles, often with opportunities to participate in a workshop. This immersive experience allows you to connect with the local culture and create your own handmade keepsake.

Return to Somma Lombardo for a traditional Italian cooking class, where you'll learn to prepare classic dishes from the region. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you sit down to a communal dinner with your cooking companions. To wind down, take a stroll through the town, enjoying the relaxed evening atmosphere and perhaps stopping for a digestivo.

Spend your morning at Lago di Varese, a serene lake perfect for a relaxing day in nature. Rent a bike to explore the scenic paths around the lake while enjoying the tranquility and beautiful views. Stop to take photos of the picturesque landscape and the charming villas that dot the shoreline.

After biking, find a peaceful spot for a lakeside picnic, enjoying local cheeses, bread, and cured meats that you picked up from the market. Spend the afternoon lounging by the water, taking in the sun, or enjoying a swim in the lake. If you're feeling adventurous, try stand-up paddleboarding for a different perspective of the beautiful surroundings.

As the sun begins to set, head to a lakeside restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in fresh fish dishes and local wines. The beautiful sunset over the lake creates a perfect backdrop for a romantic meal or a peaceful evening with friends. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the lake, savoring the calm night air and the reflections of the stars on the water.

Embark on an exhilarating day trip to the nearby Alps, where you can take in breathtaking mountain views and fresh air. Start with an early morning drive or a guided tour to the picturesque town of Stresa at the foot of the mountains. Once there, take a cable car ride to the top of Mottarone for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and lakes.

After soaking in the views, embark on a guided hike through the trails of the Alp, where the natural beauty will leave you in awe. Pack a lunch to enjoy amidst the stunning mountain vistas, or dine at a mountain hut for a taste of local cuisine. Depending on the season, you might have the option of skiing or snowboarding in the winter or mountain biking in the summer.

Return to Somma Lombardo in the evening, where you can unwind after an adventurous day with a hearty meal at a local restaurant. Try traditional dishes that will fuel your energy, like polenta with wild mushrooms or game meat. Finish the night with a relaxing drink, reminiscing about the stunning landscapes and adventures of the day.

Start your day with a visit to a nearby vineyard, where you can learn about the winemaking process from the grape to the bottle. Enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard, followed by a tasting of their finest wines paired with local cheeses. This immersive experience offers a deeper understanding of the region's viticulture.

After the vineyard visit, head to a local trattoria for a lunch that highlights regional specialties, including risotto and seasonal vegetables. Spend your afternoon exploring more vineyards or perhaps participating in a cooking class that focuses on traditional recipes. This hands-on experience allows you to create dishes using fresh, local ingredients, deepening your connection to the culinary culture of the area.

In the evening, enjoy a multi-course dinner at a local restaurant known for its wine pairings, allowing each dish to shine alongside a carefully selected wine. As you dine, reflect on the flavors and experiences of the day while enjoying the ambiance of the restaurant. End the night with a stroll through Somma Lombardo, savoring the memories of your culinary adventure.

Treat yourself to a day of relaxation at a local spa, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and massages. Begin with a calming session in a sauna or steam room, followed by a soothing massage that will melt away any stress. Enjoy a tranquil atmosphere as you prepare for the day ahead.

After your morning treatments, savor a light, healthy lunch at the spa's café, featuring fresh, local ingredients. Spend the afternoon enjoying the spa's amenities, such as a pool, hot tub, or meditation gardens, allowing yourself to fully unwind. Consider booking a facial or body treatment to enhance your relaxation experience.

As the day comes to a close, enjoy a serene dinner at a nearby restaurant known for its calming atmosphere and healthy menu options. Reflect on the rejuvenating experience you've had throughout the day, perhaps indulging in a glass of local wine. Afterward, take a peaceful evening walk through the quiet streets of Somma Lombardo, appreciating the tranquility of your surroundings.