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15 Best Things to Do in Lombard (IL)

Found 20 miles west of the Chicago Loop, Lombard is a village with plenty of history and a preserved downtown area surrounding the train station.

It’s impossible to talk about Lombard without mentioning lilacs. Lombard’s park district was born when a long-term resident donated his lilac-rich estate to the village in 1927.

Within a few years this space, dubbed Lilacia Park, became the focal point for Lilac Time, a festival celebrating these beautiful blooms.

The Lombard Historical Society maintains two museums in Lombard, while Yorktown Center, one of the top malls in the suburbs is set here, and the famed Morton Arboretum is just a stone’s throw away.

1. Lilacia Park

Then multitalented Colonel William Plum (1845-1927), a writer, lawyer, soldier and horticulturist, bequeathed his estate to the village when he passed away.

His house became the Helen M. Plum Memorial Library, named for his wife, while the garden, treasured for its lilac bushes, became a public park.

Today Lilacia Park has some 200 lilac varieties, and they descend from Plum’s collection, built from cuttings purchased from the famed breeder Victor Lemoine (1823-1911), in Nancy, France.

There are 700 bushes in total, usually in bloom in early May to coincide with an annual festival.

Also growing at Lilacia Park are 35,000 tulips from 50 varieties, and the park is on the National Register of Historic Places for its role in the history of horticulture in the United States.

2. Lilac Time

By 1930 Lilacia Park’s exquisite lilacs had become the subject of a festival that is still going strong today.

For more than two weeks in the first half of May, Lombard goes lilac crazy, with a bucketful of lilac-themed events.

A “Lilac Princess” has been crowned each year since 1930, while there’s a lilac parade down Main Street, a formal ball, an arts and crafts fair, a Mothers’ Day brunch.

You can catch a whole program of guided tours at Lilacia Park, as well as wine and beer tastings and concerts.

3. The Morton Arboretum

Staying on the botanical theme, the famous Morton Arboretum is just off Lombard southwest corner.

As well as a captivating attraction with more than 200,000 catalogued plants in 1,700 acres of gardens, the arboretum is a leading center for tree research, hosting the Center for Tree Science.

Visitors have much to explore, on foot or via the Acorn Express Tram Tour. There are numerous gardens awaiting you, from the idyllic Ground Clover Garden to the magical Maze Garden, centered on a giant sycamore.

Throughout the arboretum are important collections of trees, from conifers to willows, ornamental flowering trees, maples, ginkgos, birches, beeches, oaks, lindens, elms and more.

You can also view engaging indoor exhibitions at the sustainable visitor center, built in 2004, while the Sterling Morton Library (1963) holds many thousands of books, magazines, prints, photographs, maps, letters, drawings and more.

4. Lombard Historical Society – Victorian Cottage Museum

This local organization documents 150+ years of local history, and has two separate campuses that you can visit in Lombard.

The headquarters can be found at the Victorian Cottage Museum, at 23 W. Maple Street. The building in question is a dainty middle class family home from 1882, with six period rooms carefully preserved in the Victorian style and replete with antique fabrics, furniture and fixtures.

On the grounds you’ll find the Carriage House from 1887, containing an ongoing exhibit about the history of Lombard, as well as the romantic William J. Mueller Gazebo.

5. Lombard Historical Society – Sheldon Peck Homestead

A leisurely walk from the Victorian Cottage Museum is another property steeped in history. Standing here is the restored homestead begun in 1837 by the artist Sheldon Peck (1797-1868) and his wife Harriet Peck.

Not only did the Peck House serve as the first school in the area, it was a key station on the Underground Railroad.

It is thought that Peck, a fervent abolitionist, would hide people escaping slavery at this property and transfer them to Chicago via wagon.

The homestead is listed on the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom as a confirmed Underground Railroad site.

You can visit for tours and to find out more about the Pecks, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, February through November.

6. Yorktown Center

Lombard claims one of the top shopping destinations in the Chicago Suburbs, with a two-level mall and a pleasant outdoor shopping center complemented by trees, flowerbeds and benches.

As malls go, the Yorktown Center has a long history, and when it opened in 1968 it was the largest shopping center in the country.

With close to 200 stores, the mall brims with familiar names like JCPenney, Target, H&M, Forever 21, American Eagle, Yankee Candle and Hot Topic.

The extensive food court is a major draw too, with mall ever-presents like Panda Express, Nori Sushi & Ramen, Auntie Anne’s and Sbarro, but also the Chicago-specific chains such as Billy Goat Tavern.

7. Great Western Trail

Passing through Lombard is a section of a rail trail on the right of way of the Chicago Great Western Railway.

This Class I railroad operated between 1885 and 1968, linking Chicago, Minneapolis, Omaha and Kansas City. Gradually improved since the early 1990s, there are three non-contiguous sections of the Great Western Trail in the Chicago suburbs.

Lombard is on the eastern section, extending between neighboring Villa Park and West Chicago for 12.7 miles, through quiet suburban communities and tracts of open farmland.

For an easy walk or bike ride, the path passes along the north end of a couple of parks in Lombard, at Westmore Woods and Lombard Common. At Villa Park and West Chicago the trail connects with the 61-mile Illinois Prairie Path.

8. Noon Whistle Brewing Company

Lombard has a highly rated craft brewery in an unexpected location at a rather nondescript looking shopping center.

Noon Whistle opened here in 2014, and since that time has been constantly experimenting and coming up with unusual beer varieties.

There are up to 28 brews on tap at any one time, and you can fill growlers or pick up six packs and cases to go.

A few of the creations include Pale Ales, Sours, Stouts, a Czech-style Pilsner, a Belgian Dubbel, a Witbier, a Weissbier, a Red Ale, as well as hard seltzers.

The taproom and accompanying beer garden are open Wednesday through Sunday, and on Fridays and Saturdays there will be a food truck for anything from BBQ to tamales and Italian beef sandwiches.

9. Madison Meadow

This 85-acre park attracts people from well beyond Lombard’s boundaries for its extensive facilities.

To sum up, you’ve got an 18-hole disc golf course, a fishing pond, tennis courts, soccer-football fields, softball/baseball fields, a skate park, a 1.5-mile walking trail, a basketball court, children’s playgrounds and a picnic shelter.

Something worthy of mention is the Madison Meadow Athletic Center. Unveiled in 2018, this state-of-the-art indoor facility features a 4,800-square-foot fitness center, an open gym, indoor track, fitness studios, all sorts of classes and free Wi-Fi.

Plus if you’re around on the 4th of July, Madison Meadow hosts one of the area’s best fireworks shows.

10. Maple Street Chapel

A fine historic landmark can be found at the corner of Maple Street by the Victorian Cottage Museum. This is the Maple Street Chapel, constructed in the Gothic Revival style in 1870.

This building held a great deal of significance for the village, and not just as a place of worship.

The chapel’s bell summoned the village’s volunteer fire department, while the interior housed Lombard’s first library, its first kindergarten, and even screened silent movies in the early 20th century.

This whitewashed monument has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1978 and is easily recognized by the open belfry and spire on the north side.

To learn more about the building you can check out the chapel’s website for details of upcoming guided tours.

11. Lombard Common

Right beside the Sheldon Peck Homestead is another of Lombard’s favorite places for outdoor recreation.

Lombard Common is a large spread of flowing lawns, scattered with tall trees and no lack of sports amenities.

At the north end is Paradise Bay Water Park, cherished by families in summer, with a zero-depth entry leisure pool, an eight-lane lap pool and a shallow play area for the littlest visitors.

Elsewhere you’ll find facilities for baseball, basketball and tennis, as well as paved walking paths winding through the greenery and a short but well maintained disc golf course.

12. Sunset Knoll Recreation Center and Park

Another exceptional public amenity in Lombard is this recreation center surrounded by a spacious green park.

All year round, but especially in summer, Sunset Knoll is an anchor for all sorts of camps and community programs for kids.

Also in the warmer months, parents bring smaller kids to the fantastic splash pad, always a big hit on hot days.

Other amenities include a conventional playground, picnic areas, walking trails and soccer and baseball fields. The name is pretty accurate too, as the sunsets here are gorgeous, while in winter that knoll becomes the best place in Lombard for sledding.

13. Enchanted Castle Restaurant & Entertainment Complex

There’s no lack of things to do at one of the largest family entertainment complexes in the Chicago area, set right here in Lombard.

As well as a 700-seat restaurant, Enchanted Castle has innovative VR games, laser tag, go-karts, mini golf, bumper cars, mini-bowling, indoor rides and an immense arcade room packed with video, skill and redemption games.

Younger children will adore the Quest II: Kids Adventure Playland, a play area with fun and safe challenges including a climbing wall, bumper bridge and dragon slide.

Finally, the Dragon’s Den Restaurant has a large menu of sandwiches, wraps, salads, appetizers and entrees, and prides itself on its homemade pizzas topped with 100% real mozzarella.

14. Safari Land

If one isn’t enough, there’s another action-packed family activity center on Lombard’s north side.

Also on a vast scale, Safari Land covers more than 60,000 square feet and offers eight indoor attractions.

You’ve got 12 lanes of bowling, an arcade with more than 100 machines (including a Maxflight Simulator), a carousel, tilt-a-whirl, indoor roller coaster, a virtual roller coaster, bumper cars, kids’ go-karts and a massive soft play area with five slides.

Safari Land offers a choice of packages, with unlimited access to various attractions, as well as a pizza and soft drink at the restaurant.

15. Churchill Woods Forest Preserve

The Great Western Trail also grazes the north side of this 255-acre nature preserve on the boundary between Lombard and Glen Ellyn.

Churchill Woods is managed by the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, taking care of a wealth of forests, wetlands and prairies in the area.

At Churchill Woods you’ll encounter an array of wooded habitats, with one of the few remaining, and largest, native prairies in the county, as well as a savana of black maple, white oak and bur oak.

Native flora abounds at the preserve, including bellwort, wild strawberry, mayapple and hairy hog peanut, a holdover from when this land was a large grazing area for hogs.

You can navigate the woods on a mile-long trail, while there are designated spaces for birdwatching and picnicking.

15 Best Things to Do in Lombard (IL):

• Lilacia Park
• The Morton Arboretum
• Lombard Historical Society - Victorian Cottage Museum
• Lombard Historical Society - Sheldon Peck Homestead
• Yorktown Center
• Great Western Trail
• Noon Whistle Brewing Company
• Madison Meadow
• Maple Street Chapel
• Lombard Common
• Sunset Knoll Recreation Center and Park
• Enchanted Castle Restaurant & Entertainment Complex
• Safari Land
• Churchill Woods Forest Preserve

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Lombard

Things to do in lombard, tours in and around lombard.

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Lombard Town Centre

102 W. St. Charles Road, Suite 2-C, Lombard, IL 60148

Malls & Outlet Malls

Lombard Town Centre is dedicated to preserving and promoting our historic downtown as the heart of Lombard and a vibrant commercial destination.

Enjoy unique shopping and dining in Historic Downtown Lombard and the beautiful Lilacia Park. Special events for all ages throughout the year. Free parking.

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What's happening nearby....

Lombard Historical Society Presents "Annie”-Versary"

Lombard Historical Society •  Apr 28 – Dec 23

“Little Orphan Annie” is turning 100 years old!

Lombard Cycling Classic

Downtown Lombard •  Jul 23

Competitive Cycling Returns to Lombard!

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Best Things To Do in Lombard, Illinois

Have you ever visited a new place and felt ‘wow’ about it? For many visitors, it happens at Lombard.

Lombard may not be as popular as other cities in United States, but don’t let that fool you. Lombard is a smaller but beautiful upcoming tourist destination that is worth a visit. You will be surprised by some of the unique things to do and places you can explore at this hidden destination.

You can definitely plan a few hours of a side trip here while traveling to Chicago or Michigan City. You might wish to revisit it someday again, to take a break and relax at Lombard.

If you have plans to visit United States and are not sure if Lombard should be included in your itinerary, keep reading. In this list, we have put together some of the things to do in Lombard and around. We have a hunch that if you include this city in your travel plans, you will be thrilled you did so.

• Things to do with Family & Kids in Lombard
• Leisure Activities in Lombard
• Museums in Lombard
• Art & Cultural Attractions in Lombard

Tourist Attractions in Lombard

Here is the list of things to do in Lombard and tourist attractions in city.

Aquarium Services Unlimited

Address: 336 W Graham Ave

Brimson Grow Library, Lombard, United States

Address: 680 E Butterfield Rd

Buca Di Beppo - Lombard

Food And Drinks, Restaurant

Address: 90 Yorktown Mall Dr, Lombard, IL 60148, USA

Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse

Address: 70 Yorktown Shopping Center, Lombard, IL 60148, USA

Lilacia Park

The westin lombard yorktown center, ed debevic's, four seasons park, lombard bible church.

Church, Religious Site

Address: 111 S Park Ave, Lombard, IL 60148, USA

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Things to Do DuPage

Looking for something to do? We hear you. Nowadays, every activity is an even greater opportunity to find a piece of normalcy, fulfillment, new challenge or perhaps serene escape. We invite you to explore what it means to Discover DuPage — and find your next uplifting moment.

Things to Do in DuPage County

Outdoor activities, museums & history, events and more in dupage, bask in the great outdoors .

Looking to immerse yourself in vast outdoor spaces? DuPage County is a hidden hub for nature. Our communities are home to more than 60 forest preserves and 500 miles of trails that are bustling with nature and eagerly waiting to be explored. Walk, run, or cycle in any DuPage community, or travel throughout the county via the Illinois Prairie Path . Additionally, visit a DuPage park district  with even more outdoor experiences. If your desired destination is on our list of pet-friendly places , feel free to bring them along (be sure to check for further details)!  

Challenge Your Mind 

Learn locally in DuPage. Whether you’re interested in absorbing art or history, or if you’d prefer to hone in on a new skill, there’s a spot waiting to be discovered in DuPage. Be sure to check our list of museums to find the ones that excite you the most and pay them a visit! To discover your newest talent, try out a lesson in art or even cooking ! These destinations provide engaging educational activities for all ages. 

Elite Entertainment 

There is no shortage of entertainment opportunities within our communities. DuPage offers a wide range of memorable nights out and enjoyable daytime activities. Play a game, see a show, or experience a unique exhibit. View our full list of entertainment ideas to start planning your next outing. Gather the whole family or a small group of friends; entertainment awaits! 

Sensory Delights 

Get out and experience the various events and attractions in our communities. Treat yourself to a delicious meal prepared with passion at one of the many restaurants  DuPage has to offer. Gather a group of friends and grab a beer at a local brewery . Find your zen during a well-deserved spa day. Stop by a sensory garden to indulge your taste, smell, touch, sound, and sight. The possibilities to enjoy yourself really are endless in DuPage. 

The Ultimate Retail Adventure

Stroll through our charming downtowns  for a hint of shopping sprinkled in with a quaint sense of community. Prefer a different scene? Spend a day wandering through a shopping center  to find your new favorites.   

Reclaim inspiration and keep planning for tomorrow.

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Please note: You must create a new online registration account, which may take up to 48 business hours to approve.

Summer registration begins May 1 for residents and May 8 for non-residents.

Spring registration began March 1 for residents and March 8 for non-residents.

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• 15 Must Visit Attractions In...

15 Must-Visit Attractions in Lombardy, Italy

With fashionable Milan as its capital, celebrated vineyards and grand lakeside villas, Lombardy is definitely northern Italy’s most glamorous region. But it is also an amazing place for outdoor sports enthusiasts and offers endless destinations for culture vultures. Here is a short list of top attractions across the province.

1. bagni di bormio.

Natural Feature

2. Parco Nazionale dello Stelvio

Forest, Hiking Trail, Park

This is Lombardy’s prized national park where stunning panoramas of alpine valleys are peppered with traditional baita (chalets), quaint churches and diverse wildlife. Driving enthusiasts (and crazy cyclists) can tackle the famous Stelvio Pass – a 2km (1.2 miles) road with 60-plus hairpin bends that climb steeply through the mountains. Sane cyclists and hikers can enjoy the many paths within the park’s hills and mountains, which range from 650 metres (2,130ft) to 3,900 metres (12,800 ft) in height. If you enjoy camping, this is also a possibility.

3. Parco delle Orobie Bergamasche

Hiking Trail, Park

Parco delle Orobie Bergamasche , roughly 45 minutes north of the town of Bergamo , is a protected natural park of 70,000 hectares at the foot of the Alps that border Switzerland. The wider region is referred to as Valtellina, which is famous for its delicious cheeses. It has peaks of over 3,000 metres (9,842ft) and offers over 1,000km (621 miles) of trails with varying difficulty ratings. It is best known for the ‘Flower Trail’, a sort of high-altitude botanical garden, and the ‘Orobie Trail’ (Sentiero delle Orobie), which leads trekkers through the Orobie Prealps that are wild and rugged, and you will most likely encounter steinbocks, marmots and eagles. En route you can find overnight mountain lodges.

4. Navigli Mercatone dell’Antiquariato (antique market)

5. Castello Sforzesco

Historical Landmark

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6. Il Duomo

Building, Cathedral, Church

7. The Last Supper at Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie

8. Fondazione Prada

Art Gallery, Cinema

9. Museo del Novecento

Art Gallery, Museum

10. Villa Necchi Campiglio

Art Gallery

11. Teatro alla Scala

Opera House

12. Villa Panza

Art Gallery, Park

This beautiful 18th-century villa is home to the former owner’s collection of American art. Each hall is dedicated to a celebrated 20th-century American artist inspired by light and colour. Among the Renaissance furnishings and ornate interior architecture, there are installations by the likes of Dan Flavin, Robert Irwin and James Turrell. The villa also has extensive grounds, where large-scale modern sculptures are set among Romantic temples and grottos. Brunch, lunch and dinner are served at the onsite restaurant, Luce.

13. Villa del Balbianello

Located on the western bank of Lake Como, this estate is one of the finest in the area and encapsulates the grandeur of the region. It can be reached either by boat or via a short hike and it features a wonderful garden with beautiful flowers and plants. These embrace a building dating back to the late 16th century and create a combination of art and nature that is hard to find elsewhere. Hollywood fans may notice that it featured in both Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones (2002) and Casino Royale (2006) from the James Bond franchise.

14. Swiss Alps Bernina Express

Train Station

From Tirano in Lombardy, take a breathtaking train journey through the Swiss Alps and arrive in chic St Moritz. The historic red Bernina Express train has the most beautiful route in Europe, climbing to glacial heights where you can see unparalleled views of Italian and Swiss mountain ranges. Ride over the spiral viaduct of Brusio and along the Bernina Pass to Engadin, watching the scenery change from lush green planes to snow-capped gorges and then kitsch chalets. From Milano Centrale, take a short train to Tirano where the Bernina express begins. The Bernina journey lasts approximately four hours, and then it’s up to you how long you spend in St Moritz visiting bakeries and drinking Swiss beer. Return tickets are roughly 70–80 euros (around US$80–95). For an extra fee, tour operators offer hotel pickup and a coach ride to Tirano, which can take the hassle out of your day trip and comes with the bonus of a guide along the way.

Franciacorta wineries

Italy’s best-kept secret is its sparkling wine region, Franciacorta . Franciacorta DOCG is said to rival Champagne, but because it is lesser known internationally, it’s more affordable. The sparkling wine is made with grapes grown on the slopes surrounding Lake Iseo, north-east of Milan. In a two-hour drive, you can find yourself among the rolling vine-covered hills on a tasting tour of one of the many celebrated vineyards. Ca’ del Bosco and Berlucchi are two of the biggest wineries, but if you prefer a more intimate experience it’s worth researching some of the smaller producers. Tasting tours typically cost between 20–40 euros (around US$25–35) and you can book online. Another popular way to experience the region is to combine wine-tasting with a scenic bike ride; check out this bike tour company.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

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17 hidden gems to visit in Lombardy

In this article, I share a captivating list of Lombardy’s most enchanting hidden gems, which travelers often overlook.

Table of Contents

In this article, I share a list of the prettiest hidden gems to visit in Lombardy that travelers often miss.

From cultural attractions to quaint villages and rural idylls, there’s no shortage of charms in Lombardy. I recently wrote down all the places I want to explore or revisit in my region once we are allowed to travel again and came up with quite an extensive list . Here below you’ll find all those places that travelers often overlook but are well worth a visit. 

1. The vineyards of San Colombano al Lambro

Did you know that there’s a wine district right in the province of Milan ? It’s called San Colombano al Lambro and is Milan’s only wine-producing region. The red and white wines bottled here are excellent and received the DOC mark in 1984. The village of San Colombano itself is charming and forms part of a special itinerary called “The Road of San Colombano Wine and the Food” . It connects Milan to Lodi, passing through beautiful hamlets brimming with history, art, and culinary delights. Check out this cool video on the wine of Milan .

Fun fact: the logo of the local Wine Consortium depicts a religious man holding a bunch of red grapes. Tradition has it that it an Irish missionary started to produce wine in San Colombano in the 6th century after converting the Barbarians to Christianity and the cultivation of vines!

2. Livigno,   Lombardy’s “Little Tibet”

Hidden away in the Italian Alps, at 1816 meters above sea level, Livigno is a beautiful town surrounded by pristine forests and spectacular snow-capped mountains. In other words, it’s the kind of place to go to when you need a breath of fresh air and a full immersion in nature. It’s often nicknamed the “Little Tibet of Lombardy” because of its remoteness and the benefits that a trip there can produce on one’s mind and spirit.

Despite being a popular ski resort, it offers lots of things to do for non-skiers like me, from trekking excursions and water sports to crazy tax-free shopping (Livigno enjoys the status of a free area and is therefore exempt from VAT tax!). There’s also a popular wellness center in town called Aquagrande, with a number of swimming pools and spa areas for a little pampering.

3. Nesso and its beautiful gorge

Lake Como is dotted with tens of beautiful villages, but Nesso is truly unique. This sleepy village about twenty minutes’ drive from glamorous Bellagio is home to   a striking natural gorge called Orrido di Nesso. There, you’ll find the  waterfall flowing into the lake that Leonardo Da Vinci mentioned in one of his diaries.

The best views are from Ponte della Civera, a cute stone bridge accessible via some 300 steps downhill. All around the village are picturesque alleys to explore, including sections of the Strada Regia, an ancient road built by the Romans that connects Como to Bellagio.

4. The Cistercian abbey of Morimondo

A group of Cistercian monks founded Morimondo back in the 12th century and built a splendid Gothic-style monastery that continues to be an attractive landmark in the province of Milan. The village is only a handful of kilometers from Lombardy’s capital and represents a popular destination for a weekend escape to the countryside.

Morimondo seems to be frozen in time, with picturesque alleys, lovely cottages, and green fields . All around are various walking and cycling paths leading to the fields and the farms that dot the area. One of the favorite pastimes in this idyllic corner of Lombardy is laying on the grass with a local artisanal beer in hand while soaking up the sun.

5. Soncino, the walled village

Soncino is a beautiful village with grandiose defensive walls, sitting at the center of the Lombard plain. The main attraction here is the magnificent fortress built by the Sforza family in the 15th century, which is considered one of the finest examples of military architecture in Lombardy . Other interesting things to see in Soncino include the frescoed interiors of the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, the Azzanelli palace, and a museum dedicated to silk housed in a former spinning mill.

Soncino is also renowned for its past as a flourishing printing center thanks to a Jewish family who came from Germany in the 15th century. They printed the first Jewish Bible complete with accents and vowels, and traces of their precious contribution can still be seen at the local Printing Museum .

6. Vigevano and its Renaissance jewels

The elegant town of Vigevano is one of those hidden gems that should be on the list of any traveler exploring Lombardy. It’s only a thirty-minute train ride from Milan, yet it feels like stepping into a different world. The historic center develops around what’s considered  one of Italy’s most stunning piazzas , a real jewel of the Italian Renaissance lined with charming porticoes and home to bubbling cafés and shops. A staircase leads to  the magnificent Sforza Castle from the piazza, one of Europe’s largest fortified complexes . Just to give you an idea, it’s about twice the size of Buckingham Palace.

Interestingly,  Vigevano played a significant role in developing the shoemaking industry , as seen at the International Shoe Museum that displays a vast collection of shoes of all shapes and models, including some unique pieces worn by popes and celebrities.

READ MORE: 5 reasons to visit Vigevano

7. the beautiful villas of cassinetta di lugagnano.

About 25 km west of Milan, Cassinetta di Lugagnano is a lovely village on the banks of the Naviglio Grande, immersed in the Ticino Park. Such an idyllic location made it a popular destination for noble Milanese families, who used to escape here in the summer attracted by the peaceful, rustic atmosphere of the village.

Today the villas of these noble families represent the key heritage of Cassinetta di Lugagnano, with some of the most beautiful including Villa Negri (the mansion of Gaetano Negri, one of the first mayors of Milan), the neoclassical Villa Visconti Castiglione Maineri with splendid English and Italian gardens, and Villa Nai Bossi Poroli . Most of these mansions are private property but still, it’s nice to walk around and catch glimpses of them – even from the water, aboard one of the boats that take visitors along the Naviglio Grande .

8. Toscolano Maderno, the town of fishing and paper mills

Toscolano Maderno is a lovely town of ancient origins located on Lake Garda’s western shores, consisting of  two distinct centers ideally divided by a river . Toscolano has been a major paper production center since the Middle Ages, while Maderno is more geared towards tourism, with a quaint little harbor and a particularly renowned lake cuisine.

One of the must-sees in Toscolano Maderno is the  Paper Mill Valley  (yep, just like the one in  Amalfi ), with a series of delightful walking paths and a museum located in an old paper production complex. There are also some  pretty beaches in town, including one specially designed for dogs called Bau Beach .

9. Zavattarello and the Oltrepò Pavese vineyards

Zavattarello is an interesting historic hamlet immersed in Oltrepò Pavese, a beautiful corner of Lombardy that combines two major Italian attractions: excellent wines and beautiful sceneries . A grandiose castle towers majestically over the village, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside from its terraces. Also, a curious thing to see is the local cemetery with its unique octagonal shape.

A trip to Zavattarello can be easily combined with a visit to some local wineries and other pretty places like Fortunago, Varzi, and the mysterious – and quite isolated – Abbey of Sant’Alberto di Butrio to further explore this totally undiscovered side of the region.

READ MORE: A wine tasting tour of Oltrepò Pavese

10. sabbioneta, the ideal city.

Only half an hour’s drive from Mantova, in the valley of the Po River, Sabbioneta is a jewel of Renaissance architectural style and town planning . It was built in the 1550s when Vespasiano Gonzaga, Marquis of Mantua, decided to create  an “ideal city” based on Rome’s aesthetic and architectural canons . Solid walls enclose the village, forming the shape of a six-pointed star .

The oldest building in Sabbioneta is Palazzo Ducale, the former residence of the duke. Other interesting sights include Teatro all’Antica , the first example of a civic theater in Europe , Palazzo Giardino, the mansion built for the duke’s ‘delights and entertainment’, and the Jewish Quarter with its splendid synagogue.

11. Monte Isola, the island on Lake Iseo

Monte Isola is  the largest lake island in Europe , located at the south end of Lake Iseo. It’s home to  11 adorable hamlets frozen in time, where cars are banished , and locals still use  naecc , the traditional tapered boats. Life is very much centered around fishing, focusing on the artisanal production of ships and fishing nets and a particular way of conserving the lake sardines that won the island the title of  Slow Food Presidium .

Monte Isola can be explored by foot or bike using a 15km trail around the island. The main village is Siviano, the departing point of ferries that connect the island to the mainland. At the top of the island (about 600 mt / 1,968 feet above sea level), there’s a sanctuary that offers stunning 360° views over the lake .

12. Cornello dei Tasso, the birthplace of the postal system

Cornello dei Tasso is a tiny medieval hamlet nestled on a rocky spur amidst Val Brembana, in the province of Bergamo. It can be accessed only by foot and is exceptionally well preserved, with charming cobbled streets and porticoed alleys.  It’s here that the current postal service was born back in the 14th century , thanks to the entrepreneurial spirit of the local Tasso family. Their story is well retraced at the local museum, where a letter sent in 1840 using  the first stamp ever issued in the world is displayed . 

In the village, there’s a popular trattoria that attracts locals and visitors during the weekend and a little church with frescoed interiors worth visiting. 

READ MORE: The medieval hamlet of Cornello dei Tasso  

13. the blacksmiths of bienno.

Another beautiful hamlet to visit in Val Camonica is Bienno, which stands high on a hill surrounded by lush mountains and beautiful hiking trails. Bienno is the village of blacksmiths, as  it used to be a thriving center for the production of iron tools . The local Ethnographic Museum of Iron, Arts, and Popular Traditions represents a precious testimony of the ancient iron forging tradition of Bienno, with an interesting collection of tools and finds related to the mining activity in the region, as well as examples of iron products.

The village looks really pretty, with a maze of alleys opening onto picturesque courtyards with flowery balconies, panoramic corners, and fascinating historic buildings. There is also an ancient mill and an interesting church with precious works of art.

14. Sirmione, the pearl of Lake Garda

Sirmione is an attractive spa town with a scenic location on a small peninsula that juts onto Lake Garda . An impressive fortress that seems to be floating on the water welcomes visitors, who come here for the beautiful – and completely pedestrian – center, the excellent thermal baths, and the lovely beaches.

Not to miss are the remains of the ancient mansion of Catullus, one of the largest Roman villas in northern Italy , while in summer Jamaica Beach , right on the tip of the peninsula, is a famous stretch of coast with large slabs of rock lapped by crystal-clear waters.

15. Bagolino and its unique traditions

B agolino is a picturesque stone hamlet in the province of Brescia, particularly renowned for a type of local cheese called Bagoss that is produced only there . Its narrow streets and cobbled alleyways lead to little corners of authentic beauty. These include the parish Church of San Giorgio (often nicknamed the mountain cathedral), preserving precious artworks by Tintoretto and Titian.

Bagolino is home to exceptional Carnival celebrations that scientists have classified as one of Italy’s most important ethnological discoveries over the last 200 years! The museum ‘Habitar in sta terra’ is where to learn more about this and other local traditions and customs .

READ MORE: A day trip to Brescia

16. the monastery of santa caterina del sasso.

Santa Caterina del Sasso is undoubtedly  one of the top sights on Lake Maggiore : a charming monastery perched on a rocky spur that overlooks the lake’s azure waters. After surviving a shipwreck, a merchant looking to spend the rest of his life in prayer and solitude founded it in the 12th century. His mummified body is still preserved inside the church.

The monastery features three different chapels, each beautifully decorated with splendid frescoes. Externally there are some  charming porticoes where visitors can admire stunning lake views .

17. A road trip to Lomellina

Lomellina is a magical stretch of countryside, located in southwestern Lombardy, just about one hour’s drive from Milan.  Here, rice paddies and old farmhouses share space with fascinating historical and artistic attractions; the abundance of castles earned it the nickname of “Lombardy’s Little Loire” .

Lomellina is also a great destination for foodies, offering a variety of dishes that make extensive use of locally grown ingredients, from Borlotti beans and white asparagus to rice, saffron, and Breme’s sweet red-skinned onion. This type of onion is so special that its seeds are conserved in the Global Seed Vault on the Svalbard islands.

READ MORE: What to do in Lomellina

Pssst… pin this article for future reference and get in touch if you have any questions about the hidden gems of lombardy.

Ciao for now,

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13 thoughts on “17 hidden gems to visit in lombardy”.

Wow these places are truely spectacular.i would love to visit sometime surely

Oh I could just stare at these pictures all day! I can’t wait until we can travel to Italy again…and especially to Lombardy.

I love all the old world charm, it looks stunning

Valentina, I absolutely love your list – I am always in search for authentic places to visit and I saved your post for my next trip to Italy. I have been a couple of times, and I LOVE Italy and your guide looks like a perfect itinerary for when I come back. Thank you!

I am glad to know more about this part of Italy thanks to you! So many beautiful places here!

As a bit of a cheese lover I’m interested in trying Bagoss. I’ve heard of it before through an Italian friend of mine, she said that during the curing process they add Saffron so that the cheese has a slight yellow tinge like straw. I don’t know if it affects the taste, but definitely the look. It’s an aged cheese that I think can be used like parmesan. Didn’t know it was only made in one place. Thanks for sharing your gorgeous photos of Lombardy. 🙂

hi I am overwhelmed by the sneak preview of these wonderful paces that you described. I have never even heard of these gems and I feel that they are a world themselves. Places that can be sited on foot, places tucked high up in the hills, wow these are the place that a traveller always yearns to visit. Kudos to you for such great post, definitely worth bookmarking

Lombardy was in our plan for this summer as we had missed visiting the place and also Florence the last time we were in Italy. But before we could get down to planning the minute details we had to call off the trip. In hindsight this post of yours would be a great help for me to plan for next year. I had heard Lombardy is beautiful and I can see why it is so. Must confess I have fallen in love. The view of Bagolino is amazing and once there would love to taste the local cheese Bagoss too.

The Ponte della Civera looks so quaint and beautiful. My boyfriend lives in the south of France so visiting Italy is so tempting since it’s a stones throw away. Lombardy looks so magical, especially the countryside look of Sabbioneta. For a nature nut like me, it’s the perfect retreat.

Wow I have never heard of Lombardy before but wow. All these hidden gems look like something out of a fury tale! The gorge at lake como is utterly beautiful. I definitely want to visit here! Wow

Lombardy is such beautiful Place of Italy. I haven’t been to Italy but the history of Italy is interesting. The towns of Sirmione looks beautiful. Bagolino and its local cheese Bagoss looks interesting, and Monte Isola lake looks beautiful. The trekking excursions in Livigno sounds quite adventurous. Itally has such amazing mix of places that one can easily fell in love.

Whenever I think Italy surely can’t get any better, it does. It’s such a beautiful country with so much to explore! Sirmione looks like such a sweet town – can just imagine sitting at a cafe there to drink some delicious coffee.

Wow! These are indeed hidden gems. Sirmione is charming and it looks straight a place straight from a romance novel. Hope I get the chance to visit someday. Thank you for sharing.

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An Italian travel writer in love with my country. Having travelled widely across the globe, I realized there was more to explore closer to home. My Italian Diaries is the place where I share itineraries, activities and off-the-beaten-path places to help you experience the best of Italy like a local!

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Lombardy Travel Guide: 8 Experiences You Can’t Miss

• September 14, 2023

Lombardy is an economic powerhouse. And its capital Milan often takes the crown from Rome when it comes to job prospects and quality of life. The industrial hinterlands may not offer much to the traveling aesthete, but head further out and you’ll find glittering lakes, pristine medieval towns, and world-class art. Not to mention breathtaking architecture and delicious gastronomy. This Lombardy travel guide will introduce you to the best things to see and do in and around Milan.

It has been said that Lombardy resembles Germany and France more than its adjacent Italian regions. Lombardy, in fact, was ruled by both the French and Austro-Hungarians. Its name derives from the Scandinavian-Germanic Lombard tribe that ousted the Romans. Today, elegant cities, excellent public transportation, and old-world glamour make Italy’s richest region intimidatingly beautiful and beguiling.

Despite Lake Como and Lake Garda’s huge international fame, much of Lombardy is relatively tourist-free. Many of the smaller towns, hiking trails, and spas are known only to locals. This makes for a delightfully authentic Italian experience.

Lombardy Travel Guide

1. Explore Milan, Italy’s Fashion Capital

Milan, Italy’s fashion capital, is a heady mix of modern-day energy, achingly beautiful art-deco, and neoclassical architecture. Here, life is lived as elegantly as possible. With the Renaissance Santa Maria Della Grazie, the Medieval Duomo, and the 19th-century shopping plaza, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan’s historical highlights are enough to keep visitors busy for a weekend or longer. Add to that the world-class art housed across Pinacoteca di Brera, Palazzo Reale, and the modern masterpieces in Mudec and the Fondazione Prada and you’ve got a cultural offering to rival Rome.

Discover how to spend 48 hours in Milan in our weekend guide. Be sure to finish each day with the city’s legendary aperitivo before dining at some of the country’s best restaurants.

2. Taste Lombard Cuisine

Northern Italian food is surprisingly diverse and worlds away from the pizza and pasta of southern Italy. Typical recipes include polenta, rice dishes, fresh cheese, and red meats. A great place to taste this traditional cuisine is at one of Milan’s heritage restaurants, founded at the end of the city’s art deco era.

The interior of Trattoria Milanese is decked out in dark wood, glowing chandeliers, and vintage bottles that line the walls. Delightfully intimate, the menu features Lombardy’s finest dishes. This includes Cotoletta alla Milanese (breaded veal cutlet), risotto with osso buco , and pasta and vegetables galore. Wash everything down with a full-bodied red from the shelves.

Relatively new to the canal district of Navigli, Nebbia is making waves across the city for its chic interiors and interesting twists on traditional Milanese cuisine. Head down for an early aperitivo on the water before settling in for the night. Regular specialties include duck liver brioche with caramelized onions, roasted pumpkin with goat’s cheese and sesame, and octopus with pork cheek and local greens.

3. Explore Italy’s Great Lakes

The charm of the Italian lakes has captivated travelers for centuries. Smooth, aquamarine water, pastel-colored villas, exquisite gardens with lemon trees, bright pink azaleas, and verdant lawns add to the sensory overload of the lakes. From the expansive Lago Maggiore, the majestic Como, or the glittering Garda, these bodies of water offer a refreshing respite from sweltering days in the towns. And, they match Lombardy’s cities for culture and gastronomy.

Lake Maggiore , Lake Como, and Lake Garda are easily accessible by train from Milan. Once on the lake, it’s easy to get around via boats and water taxis. Additionally, from any of the lakes, it’s possible to stop off in any number of pretty towns to admire medieval churches, and Belle Epoque facades, as well as taste local delicacies. Some favorite towns are:

• Lake Como : Cernobbio and Bellagio
• Lake Garda : Sirmione, Salò and Limone sul Garda
• Lake Maggiore : Stresa and Laveno

For a meal with a view, look no further than Aurora Restaurant , just south of Bellagio. With a shady terrace overlooking tranquil waters and distant mountains, Aurora is the optimal location for a relaxing lunch or dinner. The kitchen specializes in freshly-caught lake fish, but their pasta and pizzas are also hard to beat.

4. Spend a Night on Lake Como

Grand Hotel Tremezzo is a glittering jewel on Lake Como’s eastern shores. Opened in 1910, this great dame has hosted sophisticated travelers for over a century. Today, the hotel remains a destination for Italy’s well-heeled and cultured. Many Milanese head north during the weekends to experience impeccable Italian hospitality and traditions. 

From the hotel’s 100 windows, you can see across the water to the picturesque Bellagio, the expansive terrace, and the landscaped gardens. “The Grand” has three swimming pools, including one which floats atop the lake. Rent a boat and choose from five restaurants and bars offering the culinary delights of Chef Gualtiero Marchesi.

The hotel is located just next to Villa Carlotta , a lakeside villa with a spectacular botanical garden, winding trails, and parks. If you want to explore, hop on one of the numerous ferries and boats to visit other villages and towns located along the lake.

5. Visit the Medieval Towns of Cremona and Mantua

Lombardy may be full of glamour and pizazz, but much of its charm can also be found in the smaller towns and cities. If you’re looking for a quieter day trip, head southeast to Cremona. This honey-colored medieval town is full of beautiful boutiques, spacious galleries, and pretty restaurants. It is also now a world heritage site, thanks to the Stradivarius Violin Museum , which preserves the violins of Amati, Guarnieri, and Stradivari. Make sure to check out the website for the numerous recitals and concerts in the city throughout the year.

From Cremona, it’s a short drive to the city of Mantua—made famous by Romeo’s banishment here. As you arrive, the city’s domes and towers rise up from the landscape. Once inside the city’s historic center, head to Antica Osteria Leoncino Rosso to eat tortelli with pumpkin, a regional specialty. Stroll through the beautiful Palazzo Ducale to catch a glimpse of what life was like for the Gonzaga family, who ruled the city for over 400 years. The city has plenty of wide-open piazzas and lovely walks along the river, making it the perfect place to relax after a few days in a bigger city.

6. Hike in the Mountains

While Lombardy may often bring to mind the glitz and glamour of Milan and the lakes, some of the most authentic experiences can be found just a short train ride, or even a stroll, from the bustling centers. Hiking in Lombardy often means hiking in the trails of the breathtaking pre-alps. Visitors traversing the Alps can descend from the snowcapped peaks and discover pops of color where the land meets the water. From land to sky, you can see verdant foliage, shimmering lakes, and towering, snow-capped peaks.

A personal favorite is the Cadorna Line hike from Porta Ceresio, an hour on the train from Milan. The trail follows in the footsteps of the partisans who fought against the fascists in World War II. In addition, the trails around Lake Como and Lake Maggiore are equally spectacular, with lake views on one side and huts owned by local Alpini on the other.

7. Relax in a Spa in Bormio

While southern Italians head to the beach, northerners are famous for their love of the mountains. Whether it’s hiking in the Alpine meadows in the summer or skiing in the winter, the alps offer no end of outdoor activities for the energetic traveler. If you find yourself in need of some fresh air and recuperation, make like the Milanese and head to the spa.

Located in the very north of Lombardy, Bormio has been a wellness destination since the Roman era, when well-heeled generals and aristocrats first lauded the benefits of taking the waters. Today there are three main spas to choose from, all offering treatments such as massages and facials as well as infinity pools and terraces that overlook the rolling hills and mountains. Check out the QC Bagni Vecchi and QC Bagni Nuovi for a relaxing weekend at one of Italy’s leading spa hotel brands.

8. Explore Beautiful Bergamo

Often overlooked for its starrier neighbor Milan, we couldn’t leave Bergamo off of our Lombardy Travel Guide. La Città Dei Mille (The City of the Thousand), is divided into two parts. Explore the Città Alta (high city), a labyrinth of medieval alleyways all enclosed within the walkable Venetian wall. Charming baroque and medieval buildings look down over the vineyards below, while gentle mists rise in the autumn and winter, giving the city a gothic, hidden-away appearance. A footpath leads around the fortified walls of Cittá Alta to Porta San Giacomo, continue down this cobbled path to enjoy Cittá Bassa’s (low city) stunning palazzos.

Come for the architecture, but stay for the majestic duomo that’s located just off the main piazza. The gilded ceilings and towering sculptures are a testament to the Venetian wealth that splashed around the city during the 18th century. The cathedral is breathtaking and just a few steps from some of the best restaurants in town. After a morning of culture, make sure to stop at Da Franco or Trattoria Tre Torri for lunch of truffle risotto, wild boar pasta, or stuffed ravioli.

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Post written by: Ashleigh Joanna Searle

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