Lombardy (Lombardia) is a very interesting area located in the northern part of the country, near the border with Austria. Stretching from the Alps on the Swiss border over romantic Lake Como and Lake Maggiore to the vast plain of the Po. The name derives from the Lombard, who had invaded from northern Europe in the 6th century. Artistic heritage of long and significant history of this area can be seen in many large and small cities.

Lombardy is the leader in modern industry and developed agriculture. The main city of the region is financial and fashion centre, Milan, with the developed wine market. Best wine shops are: Emporio Solc, Cotti, Ronchi, N’Ombra de Vin and Vino Vino. To the north are in the pristine foothills beautiful lakes, fascinating valleys and peaks of the Parco Nazionale dello Stelvio around Bormio, Sondrio and Val Camonica. Find accommodation and hotels in Lombardy: 

Milan Cathedral, Lombardy, Italy by Kevin Poh

Lombardy is a home to many cities with a long history and important sights such as Milan or Bergamo. This region is an important agricultural area. Already in the Middle Ages there were powerful city-states and promoted prosperity in the region. Milan, the main commercial centre of the area was ruled by Visconti and Sforza dynasties, who left behind a wealth of palaces and galleries. Southern part of the region is agricultural land dotted with towns of unprecedented beauty – Cremona (birthplace of the famous violin maker Antonio Stradivari), Mantova, Pavia, and others that offer a wide variety of attractions.

Lago di Como, Lombardy, Italy by Ferdinando Marfella

As the region has no sea the only option for swimming are fresh water lakes. Certainly you should not miss a visit to the picturesque villages along the lakes Maggiore, Como and Garda. Lombardy is, however, like all of Italy, also known for producing excellent wines. Extensive vineyards stretch especially around lakes. Lombardy produces less wine than its neighbors Piemonte, Veneto and Emilia-Romagna, but it is ranked among the most famous wines in Italy. The best known include Bardolino and Lugana. From this area comes also very famous cheese Grana Padano.

Glacial lakes are spread across northern part of the region. Around the lakes you can find the picturesque villages, ancient towns, high mountains and a number of beautiful villas and gardens. Lago di Como, Lago Maggiore and Lago di Garda are ones of the most famous local lakes. Lakes Orta and Iseo are smaller and less well known, while Lugano and Maggiore lakes extend also to the Switzerland. Lago di Como is considered one of the most romantic places in Italy. On all lakes you can use ferries that transport cars and passengers. At the local tourist information office visitors can learn more details about golf courses, water sports centres and a well-mapped and popular hiking trails in the area.

Cremona, Lombardy, Italy by ho visto nina volare

Lombardy is famous as the birthplace of Virgil (ancient Roman poet of the Augustan period), Monteverdi (Italian composer, gambist, and singer), Stradivarius (violin maker) and Donizetti (composer). Lombardy has plenty to offer for every tourist. Anyway, very excited to be the lovers of winter sports. There’s a plethora of skiing options. The peaks of Lombard Dolomites reach up to 4000 meters, so there are really great conditions for skiing. Do not forget to visit the most beautiful Italian national park Parco Nazionale dello Stelvio.

Top places to visit in Lombardy region

• Aprica
• Bergamo
• Brescia
• Cascate del Serio – Italy’s tallest waterfalls (315 meters)
• Cremona
• Lago di Como
• Lago di Lugano
• Lago Maggiore
• Mantova
• Milan
• Monza
• Parco Nazionale dello Stelvio
• Pavia

If you are planning your next trip to Italy book hotels, flights, rental cars at best price guaranteed!