Travel Budget for Lombardy Visit Lombardy on a Budget or Travel in Style

Lombardy On a Budget

As the fertile surrounding mountains turn from vibrant green to a mystic blue as the sun wanes, the only lights that remain are that from the ancient Italian architecture that glisten brightly on the glassy Lake Como. Though darkness surrounds the region, Lombardy, Italy glows a golden radiance that cannot be extinguished. Located in Northern Italy, Lombardy is one of Italy's largest regions and shares its border with neighbor Switzerland. The region is known for its capital Milan that is a fishbowl of fashion and art with its haute couture boutiques and exquisite galleries that feature works of the most widely acclaimed Italian artists. Like much of Italy, Lombardy is simply teeming with an extensive, unique history that has fascinated millions for centuries. Sforza Castle, Milan Cathedral, Santa Maria delle Grazie-Lombardy is nearly a timecapsule of ancient relics and treasures. Besides its profound history, Lombardy also furnishes its visitors with a wide array restaurants, bars, clubs, malls, and beaches to ensure that you not only relish the past but enjoy the present as well! Whether you are looking to bathe underneath the warm Italian sun on the shores of Lake Garda or marvel at the artistic specimens on display in Pinacoteca di Brera, life is leisure when you are in Lombardy!

Sights

A national landmark that simply cannot be missed is none other than the Milan Cathedral, or the Duomo di Milano. Archbishop Antonio da Saluzzo began the construction of the Milan Cathedral in 1386, tailoring its rayonnant late Gothic style to be more reminiscent to the cathedrals of France rather than Italy. The construction continued for generations, allowing for an exceptionally large and elaborate cathedral to take fruition and simply amaze the world. The cathedral was mostly finished in in the 1880s; however, it still undergoes major renovations to this day. The Milan Cathedral is the second largest Catholic cathedral in the world, about 157 meters in length and fitting 40,000 people comfortably within. The Milan Cathedral also consists of a museum, terraces, multiple churches, and a baptistery. Due to the many sights and services provided by the Milan Cathedral, hours and prices for admission vary widely, so it is best to consult the Milan Cathedral's website. Moreover, be sure to also familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of the cathedral out of respect for this sacred spectacle. Admire the art and architecture of Lombardy at the Milan Cathedral!

Activities

Nearly a shadow amidst the towering Rhaetian Alps, Lake Como, or Lago di Como, is one of the most breathtaking lakes found throughout Europe. Once a refuge for Lombard kings from invaders on Isola Comacina, Lake Como now harbors a cluster of towns where visitors can delight in exquisite malls and tasty eateries. Measuring about 120 kilometers, Lake Como acquires a distinct shape, forming an upside-down letter Y. Whether you seek to climb the mountains starting from Menaggio for a brisk jog or engage in a lively expedition of water skiing, there is plenty to do in the region of Lake Como. Plenty of off the beaten path destinations in Italy can be found in this region. Boat trips are highly recommended as you get to explore the expanse of the lake as well as a stop at some of the most popular tourist towns like Bellagio, Menaggio, and Varenna. The views of Lake Como are simply amazing and is well worth a trip.

Food and Dining

Refined, elegant, sophisticated-restaurant Da Vittorio acquires a unique flair in dining that cannot be duplicated. Established in 1966 by Vittorio Cerea and his wife Bruna, the restaurant is located just below the start of the Bergamo Alps and the Italian lakes in the city of Bergamo. Da Vittorio became well known due to its riskily creative fish dishes during a time where meat was the predominant staple of Italian cuisine. Just as the Cerea family grew, the popularity of Da Vittorio grew as well. Presently, the restaurant offers a special menu ‘in the tradition of Vittorio' to celebrate its renowned seafood dishes. Besides its restaurant, Da Vittorio also offers catering, banquet halls, and cooking demonstrations for the public. Some of Da Vittorio's meals include raw "damare" fish and shellfish, crab bisque, spit-roasted lobster and oyster nage, "hourglass" white sea bass, and grilled fantasy of prawns.

Transportation

If you are looking to explore the expanse of the Lombardy region, most seasoned travelers suggest renting a car. This will allow you the convenience to travel at your own pace and to your own destinations.

However, if you are looking to remain within the borders of major metropolitan areas of Lombardy like Milan, public transportation is the best way to go. Milan as well as other cities are known for its excellent, on-time public transportation service. However, if you are looking to enjoy the view of Lombardy, many take the tram instead as views of the landscape are often missed when taking the subway. However, be weary that the tram often runs behind schedule and continually gets caught in traffic.

Via Italy's very efficient rail network, major cities in Lombardy, including Milan, connect to Rome, Venice, Florence, and other major cities throughout Italy.

Have a lovely time in Lombardy!


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