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4-Day Family Adventure: Sightseeing and Shopping in Brescia, Italy

Brescia, Italy

4 days

The castle of Padernello
Piazza Loggia
Altar inside the Duomo Nuovo or New Cathedral
The Castle
Loggia Square

About Brescia, Italy

Discover the enchanting city of Brescia, Italy, nestled at the foot of the Alps. This hidden gem is rich in history, boasting Roman ruins, medieval squares, and Renaissance architecture. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Santa Giulia Museum, for a deep dive into Brescia's past. Marvel at the grandeur of the Brescia Cathedral and the imposing Brescia Castle. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming Piazza della Loggia, lined with cafes and shops. Indulge in the region's culinary delights, featuring local cheeses, wines, and olive oil. Just a stone's throw away, you'll find the serene beauty of Lake Iseo and the Franciacorta wine region. Brescia, a perfect blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, awaits you.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the City Center and Brescia Castle

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Piazza della Loggia, a beautiful square surrounded by Renaissance buildings. Enjoy the morning bustle and take in the stunning architecture.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Italian lunch in a family-friendly restaurant in the city center. Try local specialties like casoncelli or polenta.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Brescia Castle, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the city. The castle also houses a museum with a collection of ancient weapons.

Dinner

Have dinner in a cozy trattoria near the castle. Taste the local wines and enjoy a relaxed family meal.

Evening

Take a leisurely stroll through the city center, enjoying the beautifully lit buildings and the calm evening atmosphere.

Morning

Visit the Roman Forum, the best-preserved Roman public building in Northern Italy. Explore the ruins and learn about the city's ancient history.

Lunch

Have lunch in a charming café near the forum. Try the delicious Italian pastries and gelato.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at the Santa Giulia Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The museum offers a fascinating journey through Brescia's history, from prehistoric times to the present day.

Dinner

Enjoy a hearty Italian dinner in a family-friendly restaurant in the city center. Try the local risotto or pasta dishes.

Evening

Take a relaxing evening walk along the Via dei Musei, a street lined with historic buildings and shops.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Duomo Vecchio, a beautiful Romanesque church with a unique circular shape. Explore the interior and admire the stunning frescoes.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local pizzeria in the city center. Enjoy the thin-crust pizza and the lively Italian atmosphere.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon shopping in the city center. Visit the local boutiques and artisan shops, and buy unique souvenirs and Italian fashion items.

Dinner

Have dinner in a traditional Italian restaurant. Try the local fish dishes and enjoy the relaxed family atmosphere.

Evening

Take an evening stroll along the Lake Garda, enjoying the beautiful sunset and the peaceful atmosphere.

Morning

Visit the Mille Miglia Museum, dedicated to the historic Italian car race. The museum houses a collection of vintage cars and memorabilia.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch in a local park. Buy fresh produce from a local market and enjoy a relaxed family meal outdoors.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Torre della Pallata, a medieval tower offering panoramic views of the city. Climb to the top and take memorable family photos.

Dinner

Have your last dinner in Brescia in a family-friendly restaurant near the tower. Enjoy the local cuisine and reflect on your wonderful trip.

Evening

End your trip with a relaxing evening walk through the city center, enjoying the beautifully lit buildings and the calm evening atmosphere.

Attractions in Itinerary (9)

Piazza della Loggia

1
Piazza della Loggia

A beautiful Renaissance square surrounded by Venetian-style buildings and the Clock Tower.

Attractions
Landmarks
Architecture
Brescia Castle

2
Brescia Castle

A medieval fortress located on the Cidneo Hill, offering panoramic views of the city.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Roman Forum

3
Roman Forum

The ruins of the ancient Roman city, including a theater and a temple.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Santa Giulia Museum

4
Santa Giulia Museum

A museum dedicated to the history of Brescia from prehistoric times to the age of the Lombards.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Via dei Musei

5
Via dei Musei

A historic street in Brescia, lined with various museums and ancient Roman ruins.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Duomo Vecchio

6
Duomo Vecchio

The Old Cathedral, also known as La Rotonda because of its round layout. It is one of the most important Romanesque monuments in Italy.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Architecture
Lake Garda

7
Lake Garda

Italy's largest lake, offering a variety of outdoor activities and stunning views.

Attractions
Parks
Beaches
Tours
Mille Miglia Museum

8
Mille Miglia Museum

A museum dedicated to the Mille Miglia, a historic endurance race that took place in Italy.

Attractions
Museums
Torre della Pallata

9
Torre della Pallata

A historic tower in Brescia, offering panoramic views of the city.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Casoncelli alla Bresciana

Casoncelli alla Bresciana

A traditional pasta dish from Brescia, filled with a mixture of bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, nutmeg, and lemon zest.

Polenta Taragna

Polenta Taragna

A hearty dish popular in Brescia, made with buckwheat flour and cornmeal, often served with melted cheese and butter.

Manzo all'Olio

Manzo all'Olio

A unique dish from Brescia, featuring beef slow-cooked in a mixture of oil, anchovies, and vegetables.

Spiedo Bresciano

Spiedo Bresciano

A traditional dish from Brescia, consisting of various meats and vegetables skewered and slow-cooked over a fire.

Pandoro

Pandoro

A sweet, golden cake that originated in Verona but is popular throughout the region, including Brescia. It's typically dusted with powdered sugar and served around Christmas.

Franciacorta

Franciacorta

A sparkling wine from the Franciacorta region near Brescia, made in the traditional method like Champagne.

Bagoss

A hard, aged cheese from the Bagolino area near Brescia, known for its strong flavor and slightly grainy texture.

Risotto alla Pilota

A traditional risotto dish from Brescia, made with Vialone Nano rice and pork sausage.

Salame Bresciano

A traditional salami from Brescia, made with pork and flavored with garlic and wine.

Mostarda di Cremona

Mostarda di Cremona

A sweet and spicy condiment made with candied fruit and mustard syrup, popular in Brescia and the surrounding region.

Torcolo di San Costanzo

A ring-shaped cake from the region around Brescia, flavored with anise and often served with a glass of sweet wine.

Robiola di Monte Isola

A soft, creamy cheese from Monte Isola, a lake island near Brescia, typically made with a mix of cow, goat, and sheep milk.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Brescia, Italy is typically between April and June or September and October. During these periods, the weather is usually mild and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded compared to the peak summer months of July and August, allowing tourists to explore at a leisurely pace. Additionally, these periods often coincide with local festivals and events, providing an authentic Italian cultural experience.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

April 25

Thu

Liberation Day

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

June 2

Sun

Republic Day

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

December 8

Sun

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

St. Stephen's Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Brescia is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the city's main attractions, such as the Roman ruins and the old town, are within walking distance of each other.

Brescia's public bus system is extensive and reliable, serving all parts of the city and its suburbs. Buses run frequently during the day, less so in the evenings and on Sundays. Tickets can be purchased at newsstands, tobacco shops, or vending machines at some bus stops.

Brescia has a single tram line that runs from the north to the south of the city, passing through the city center. It's a convenient way to travel between the main railway station and the city center.

Brescia is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and bike-sharing stations. The city's flat terrain makes it easy to get around by bike.

While driving in Brescia is possible, it's not recommended due to the city's narrow streets and limited parking. However, car rental services are available if you wish to explore the surrounding region.

Taxis are readily available in Brescia, although they can be expensive. They can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or picked up from designated taxi stands.

Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are available in Brescia. This can be a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.

Brescia's main train station offers connections to other Italian cities, including Milan, Verona, and Venice. There's also a smaller station, Brescia Scalo, for regional trains.

For those arriving or departing from Brescia Airport, there are shuttle services that run between the airport and the city center.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 118; Fire: 112, 115; Police: 112, 113;

Drinking waterYes, but some opt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type FPower socket type L

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Brescia, Italy as a first time visitor

1

Brescia is located in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy, between Milan and Verona.

2

The city is well-connected by train and bus services, making it easy to explore the surrounding region.

3

Brescia has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer temperatures range from 75-85°F (24-29°C) and winter temperatures range from 32-45°F (0-7°C).

4

The official language is Italian, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and hotels.

5

The local currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.

6

Brescia is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1).

7

Tipping is not mandatory in Italy, but it is customary to leave a small amount (around 10%) if you are satisfied with the service.

8

Brescia is known for its rich history and is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

9

The city is also famous for its culinary scene, with local specialties including casoncelli (stuffed pasta) and polenta.

10

Brescia has a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.

11

The city is very walkable, but there is also an efficient public transportation system, including buses and a metro.

12

Brescia hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Mille Miglia, a historic car race.

13

The city is generally safe, but like any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

14

Brescia has a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels.

15

The city is not as crowded as other Italian tourist destinations, offering a more relaxed and authentic experience.

16

Brescia has a variety of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to local markets.

17

The city has a strong cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters.

18

Brescia is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including Lake Garda and the Alps, which are perfect for outdoor activities.

19

The city has a strong coffee culture, and you'll find many cafes serving high-quality espresso.

20

Brescia is also known for its wine, particularly Franciacorta, a sparkling wine produced in the region.

Basic Italian to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Ciao

Chow

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Arrivederci

Ah-ree-veh-der-chee

Leaving someone

Please

Per favore

Pehr fah-voh-reh

Making a request

Thank you

Grazie

Graht-see-eh

Expressing gratitude

You're welcome

Prego

Preh-go

Responding to thank you

Excuse me

Scusa

Skoo-sah

Getting someone's attention

Yes

Sì

See

Agreeing or confirming

No

No

No

Disagreeing or denying

I don't understand

Non capisco

Non ka-pee-sko

Confusion or misunderstanding

Do you speak English?

Parli inglese?

Par-lee in-gle-seh

Finding someone who speaks your language

I need help

Ho bisogno di aiuto

Oh bee-zoh-nyoh dee ah-yoo-toh

In need of assistance

Where is the bathroom?

Dove è il bagno?

Doh-veh eh eel bahn-yo

Looking for the bathroom

How much does it cost?

Quanto costa?

Kwan-toh kos-ta

Inquiring about price

I would like to order

Vorrei ordinare

Voh-rey or-dee-nar-eh

Ordering food or drink

Water

Acqua

Ah-kwah

Ordering water

Beer

Birra

Beer-rah

Ordering beer

Wine

Vino

Vee-no

Ordering wine

Check, please

Il conto, per favore

Eel kon-toh, pehr fah-voh-reh

Asking for the bill

Where is...?

Dove è...?

Doh-veh eh...?

Asking for directions

Help!

Aiuto!

Ah-yoo-toh

In an emergency

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear (4 pairs)

  • Socks (4 pairs)

  • T-shirts (4)

  • Pants/Jeans (2 pairs)

  • Sweater or Jacket (1)

  • Sleepwear (1 set)

  • Comfortable walking shoes (1 pair)

  • Swimwear (if planning to swim)

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush

  • Toothpaste

  • Floss

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and Conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and Shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm

  • Travel-size first aid kit

  • Prescription medications (if any)

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and Debit cards

  • Cash and coins

  • Hotel and/or car rental reservations

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Maps and guidebooks

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Universal power adapter

  • Headphones

  • Camera (if not using phone camera)

  • Charger for camera

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Ziplock bags for organization

  • Umbrella or raincoat

Weather Conditions

Brescia, located in the Lombardy region of Italy, experiences a humid subtropical climate. This means that you can expect hot, humid summers and cold, damp winters. If you're planning to visit Brescia during the summer months, typically between June and August, be prepared for high temperatures that can reach up to 86°F (30°C). It's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense sun. Also, remember to stay hydrated, especially when sightseeing. On the other hand, if you're visiting during the winter months, from December to February, temperatures can drop to around 32°F (0°C). It's essential to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, scarves, gloves, and hats. Snowfall is not uncommon during this period, so waterproof shoes would be a wise addition to your luggage. The shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer milder weather, with temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 68°F (20°C). These periods can be an excellent time to visit as the city is less crowded, and the weather is comfortable for outdoor activities. However, these seasons can also be quite rainy, so don't forget to pack an umbrella or raincoat. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to Brescia. This will help you pack appropriately and plan your activities accordingly. Enjoy your trip!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

8° / -1°

January is the coldest month in Brescia, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter sports or prefer less crowded tourist spots.

February

11° / 0°

February is still quite cold, but temperatures start to rise slightly. It's a quiet time to visit, perfect for those who want to avoid crowds.

March

16° / 3°

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures starting to warm up. It's a great time to visit for outdoor activities.

April

20° / 7°

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's an excellent time to explore the city and its surroundings.

May

25° / 11°

May brings warm temperatures and the city starts to get busier with tourists. It's a great time to visit for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

June

29° / 15°

June is the start of summer with high temperatures. It's a popular time for tourists, so expect some crowds.

July

32° / 18°

July is the hottest month in Brescia, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy hot weather, but be prepared for the heat.

August

32° / 18°

August is equally hot as July, with high temperatures and sunny days. It's a great time to visit for beach and water activities.

September

26° / 14°

September sees the start of autumn, with temperatures starting to cool down. It's a great time to visit for those who prefer milder weather.

October

20° / 9°

October is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's an excellent time to explore the city and its surroundings.

November

14° / 4°

November is a cooler month, with temperatures dropping. It's a quieter time to visit, perfect for those who want to avoid crowds.

December

9° / 0°

December is a cold month, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter sports or prefer less crowded tourist spots.

Did you know?

Did you know that Brescia is the second largest city in Lombardy, Italy, after Milan?

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