Things To Do
in Voghera

Voghera is a historic Lombardy town set in the Po Valley, about an hour from Milan. Its compact old center pairs medieval lanes with Renaissance-era buildings, inviting cafés, and a strong sense of local pride. The town is a gateway to the vineyards and hills of the Oltrepò Pavese, offering manageable day trips for wine lovers and walkers.

Coordinates 44.9925, 9.0092 place you right in the heart of a warm, food-forward Italian town with a relaxed pace.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in the historic center of Voghera, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and Italian coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the charming streets, admiring the architecture and visiting notable landmarks such as the Cathedral of Voghera. The morning light will beautifully illuminate the quaint piazzas and narrow alleys, perfect for capturing memorable photos.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, indulge in a delicious lunch at a traditional trattoria, sampling local dishes like risotto or handmade pasta. Afterwards, visit the Museo Storico di Voghera, which offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history through its collections. Spend some time shopping at local boutiques, where you can find unique souvenirs and artisanal products.

evening
:

As evening approaches, head to a local pizzeria for a casual dinner, enjoying authentic Italian pizza straight from a wood-fired oven. After dinner, take a leisurely walk in the city's main square, where you can often find live music or local events happening. End your day with a gelato from a nearby shop, savoring the flavors while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

day 2
A Day Trip to Certosa di Pavia
morning
:

Set off early in the morning to visit the stunning Certosa di Pavia, a beautiful monastery located just a short drive from Voghera. Take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history and impressive architecture of this serene place. The peaceful surroundings make it an ideal spot for reflection and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

afternoon
:

After exploring the monastery, enjoy lunch at a nearby osteria, where you can taste regional dishes paired with local wines. Spend the afternoon walking through the picturesque grounds of the Certosa, including its gardens and the surrounding countryside. Capture the stunning views of the Lombard landscape that unfold in every direction.

evening
:

Return to Voghera in the evening and dine at a recommended restaurant known for its local specialties and warm hospitality. After dinner, take a stroll through the city’s vibrant streets and perhaps catch a local performance or festivity. Conclude your day with a glass of wine at a cozy wine bar, savoring the flavors of the region.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee or tea$2-4
🧀Dairy products$3-6
🚌Public transit ride$2-3
🏨Hotel per night (mid-range)$70-110

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Historic center with medieval charm
  • Good value for money in Lombardy
  • Excellent regional cuisine and nearby wine country
  • Easy to explore on foot
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • English less widely spoken outside tourist spots
  • Connections to some rural areas can be limited
  • Smaller-town pace might feel quiet for some travelers
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning / Hello
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is the ...?
  • "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Voghera

Visit one of these nice places.

Piazza Garibaldi and Duomo di Voghera

A lively square framed by the cathedral and historic palazzi, especially photogenic at golden hour.

Castello Visconteo di Voghera

Medieval castle ruins with elevated views of the old town.

Lungo Po riverfront

Riverside walks with reflections, bridges and quiet early-morning light.

Historic Archways along Via Giacomo Matteotti

Photo opportunities along narrow alleys and archways leading into courtyards.

Culinary Guide

Food in Voghera

Voghera sits in Lombardy’s food-forward belt, where hearty rural dishes meet refined Italian flavors. Expect fresh pasta, polenta, risotti,seafood options in-season, and excellent local wines from nearby hills. The town’s markets and trattorie emphasize seasonal produce, cheeses, and bread, all perfect for a casual culinary stroll.

Voghera Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Risotto alla Milanese

A saffron-infused risotto, a Lombardy classic often enjoyed in Voghera's trattorie.

Must-Try!

Ossobuco con Risotto

Slow-braised veal shanks served with saffron risotto or polenta.

Cotoletta alla Milanese

Crispy breaded veal cutlet, a Lombard staple.

Polenta e Funghi

Creamy polenta topped with mushroom ragout.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Piazza Duomo Market (weekly)

Fresh produce, cheeses, breads and seasonal bites in Voghera's historic center.

Frutta e Verdura stalls

Local fruit, vegetables and prepared snacks along Corso Vittorio Veneto.

Climate Guide

Weather

Voghera experiences a temperate climate with hot summers and cool winters. Expect rainfall mostly in spring and autumn; summers can reach into the high 20s Celsius (80s Fahrenheit).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with Buongiorno or Buona sera; use formal address in business settings.

Dining

Meals are enjoyed slowly; avoid loud conversations in quiet spaces; dress appropriately for nicer venues.

Safety Guide

Safety

Like most small Italian towns, Voghera is generally safe. Take usual urban precautions: secure belongings in crowded areas and be aware of traffic when walking near streets and markets. In emergencies, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance.

Tipping in Voghera

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Service is usually included; leaving a small tip for good service is appreciated but not required.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; some small shops may be cash-only; carry euros.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures, blooming trees; great for outdoor dining and city photography.

Summer

Hot days; stay hydrated; take advantage of long evenings for al fresco dining and sunset photos.

Autumn

Cooling temperatures; harvest festivals in nearby hills; vibrant foliage.

Winter

Cool to cold with occasional fog; cozy trattorie and indoor cultural events.

Nightlife Guide

Voghera at Night

Voghera’s nightlife leans toward relaxed bars and aperitivo spots in the historic center. In summer, outdoor terraces and small live music events enliven squares, while clubs are rare and typically outside the town center.

Hiking in Voghera

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Monte Penice and surrounding hills

Popular hiking and viewpoints in the Apennines, about 40-50 km from Voghera.

Oltrepò Pavese vineyard trails

Rural trails through vineyards and woods in the hills north and south of Voghera.

Staffora River valley trails

Scenic routes along the river valleys near Broni and Cecima.

Airports

How to reach Voghera by plane.

Milan Malpensa International Airport (MXP)

Major international hub about 60-90 minutes by car or train from Voghera.

Milan Linate Airport (LIN)

City airport closer to central Milan; good for domestic and short-haul flights.

Genoa Cristoforo Colombo (GOA)

Regional option farther southwest with some international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Voghera's historic core is highly walkable, with narrow lanes, inviting squares, and most sights within a short stroll. Parking can be easier on the outskirts; best explored on foot or by bike.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Predominantly families, workers commuting to nearby towns, and retirees.

Students and professionals

A smaller segment commuting to Pavia, Milan, and universities nearby.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Calcio (Soccer)

The most popular sport; local clubs and matches draw families and fans.

Cycling

Hilly surroundings in Oltrepò Pavese make for popular road cycling.

Tennis and paddle

Local clubs offer courts and social matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Voghera is typically light to moderate; regional trains and buses connect to Pavia, Milan, and nearby towns. Parking downtown is limited; use multi-story lots on the outskirts and walk in.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Voghera.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options; order mushroom risotto, polenta con funghi, or grilled vegetables.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare includes local clinics and the Ospedale Civile di Voghera with general medicine, emergency services, and outpatient specialties. For more complex care, larger hospitals in Pavia or Milan are accessible by regional train or car.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide