Brescia is an Italian city with a rich and varied past that really deserves to be discovered. This dynamic, modern destination is home to a wealth of historical and cultural treasures that bear witness to its glorious past. A former powerhouse of the Lombard kingdom and an independent commune in the 12th century, Brescia has preserved the vestiges of its history, including the monastic complex of Santa Giulia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city was also influenced by the Viscontis and the Venetian Republic, before following the course of Northern Italian history. Today, Brescia is a favorite stopover for wine lovers, vintage car enthusiasts and culture buffs. In this article, we present Brescia's 15 must-sees, to help you make the most of your stay.
1. Visit the Santa Giulia Museum
Located in a former Benedictine monastery in Brescia, the Santa Giulia Museum is a must-see for art and history lovers. Founded by the last king of the Lombards, Desiderio, and his wife Ansa, the museum houses over 12,000 archaeological pieces and works of art. These include the 9th-century Cross of Didier, one of the world's most impressive works of goldsmithery, and the lipsanoteca, a 4th-century carved ivory reliquary. The magnificent frescoes in the Choir of the Nuns, the remains of ancient Roman Domus and the sumptuous interior of the Basilica of San Salvatore are just some of the wonders to be discovered in this unique setting.
2. Brescia's Duomo, a jewel of Romanesque art
Brescia's Rotonda is a jewel of Romanesque architecture and one of the few 11th-century religious buildings with a central plan. Built on the ruins of an earlier sanctuary, it houses a remarkable collection of religious paintings by 16th-century Brescian painters Moretto and Romanino, as well as remnants of ancient mosaics. To the left of the Rotonda standsthe more recent Duomo Nuovo, whose imposing white marble façade dominates Piazza Paolo VI. Inside, you can admire numerous paintings by the Brescian school, notably by Moretto and Romanino.
Click here to book your guided tour of Brescia: you'll discover a different and intriguing side of Italy through this unique city and its long history, before finishing in a local bar.
3. Visit the Roman Archaeological Park
Brescia's historic district, once occupied by the capitol of Roman Brixia, is fascinating to explore. The site remained covered in rubble until 1823, when the first excavations were carried out. The Capitolium was the city's main temple and the symbol of Roman power in the province. It was in the space adjoining the temple that the faithful gathered to attend religious ceremonies. Thanks to a recent restoration, it is now possible to enter the Capitoline temple and admire the decorative remains with 3D glasses, enabling visitors to visualize the site as it once was. Archaeological finds, such as epigraphs, sculptures and architectural remains, are on display at the Museum of Santa Giulia.
Next, you'll cross the archaeological site of the Domus dell'Ortaglia, where the mosaic pavement is remarkably well preserved. You'll then reach the Viridarium, a garden reconstructed in the image of Roman gardens.
4. Brescia Castle
Built by the Visconti family in the 14th century, this military fortress now houses two outstanding museums. The Museo del Risorgimento is dedicated to the history of Italian unification, with a particular focus on the battles of Solferino and San Martino, which took place in the region in 1859. The Museo delle armi antiche "Luigi Marzoli" houses one of the most important collections of antique arms and armor in Europe. The fortress is a must-see for history and military armament enthusiasts. To the north are the Grande and Piccolo Miglio, ancient grain depots dating back to the days of the Serenissima.
5. Pinacoteca Tosio Martinengo, a magnificent art museum in Brescia
The Palazzo Martinengo da Barco, built in the 17th century, is home to one of Lombardy's finest art museums: the Pinacoteca Tosio Martinengo. The collection includes works by Raphael, including the famous Christ Blessing, Tintoretto, Clouet and Lorenzo Lotto, with his Adoration of the Shepherds. The museum also showcases works by painters of the Brescia school, such as Foppa, Moretto, Romanino and Savoldo. The recently renewed museography further enhances the masterpieces on display, witnesses to the heyday of the Lombard Renaissance.
6. Palazzo Broletto
To discover the history of Brescia, a visit to the 13th-century Palazzo Bro letto is a must. Although the exterior is rather austere, the balcony is a reminder that it was here that edicts and court rulings were proclaimed to the people. To the right of the palace is the 12th-century People's Tower. The building comprises two beautiful porticoed courtyards, which today house the municipal administration. In the large south courtyard, the ancient wooden staircase has been reconstructed, allowing visitors to access the great hall of the "Maggior Consiglio " on the second floor, as was the case in the Middle Ages.
7. Stroll around the Plaza della Loggia
The Piazza della Loggia, built between 1492 and 1574 with a strong influence from the architect Palladio, is the site of today's city hall. Opposite the Loggia, the Clock Tower is decorated with the signs of the zodiac. To the north of the square lies a picturesque medieval quarter with ancient houses, while the south side is enclosed bythe palaces of Monte di Pietà Vecchio and Monte di Pietà Nuovo, dating from 1484 and 1497 respectively. The two buildings are linked by arcades and their facades are covered with Roman inscriptions found on site and inserted into the architecture to be preserved.
Looking for a fun activity to do with family and friends? We recommend you download this Escape Room through Brescia. Hunt for clues, decipher codes and solve puzzles - just like in a large escape room. A dozen clues are placed in the streets and stores of the old town, which only the cleverest will find.
8. Visit the Church of St. Francis of Assisi
The Church of St. Francis of Assisi, built in 1265, is a jewel of late Romanesque architecture. Situated at the crossroads of historic lanes, its facade features a large central rose window . Inside, the three naves are richly decorated with frescoes and feature important works by Moretto and Romanino, such as Saint Margaret of Antioch between the Saints and Pentecost. Don't miss the small cloister of the Madonnina and the elegant large cloister with its columns of red Verona marble. Finally, the side door to the right of the façade gives access to the famous mechanical crib installed by Franciscan friars during the Christmas season.
9. The Mille Miglia Museum, for car enthusiasts
The Mille Miglia Museum, housed in the 11th-century Sant'Eufemia della Fonte monastery, is a must-see for car enthusiasts . The famous Mille Miglia rally was created in 1927 and continued until 1957. Every May, a re-enactment of the race takes place from Brescia to Rome and back. The museum offers a tablet to introduce the various sections, then visitors can discover an exhibition of cars dating from 1927 to the 1960s, as well as the various editions of contemporary races. A collection of photos, posters and even petrol pumps complete the visit.
10. The Queriniana Library in Brescia
Brescia's Queriniana Library is a must-see for lovers of old books and history. Founded in 1746 by Cardinal Angelo Maria Querini, it housesan impressive collection of over 300,000 volumes, some dating back to the Middle Ages. The library is housed in a historic 18th-century building designed by the architect Giovanni Battista Marchetti. Visitors can admire the magnificent reading room, adorned with frescoes and stuccowork, as well as the precious wooden shelving spanning two floors. The Queriniana library also boasts an important collection of manuscripts, incunabula and rare works, bearing witness to the history of the city and region. We recommend booking a guided tour to discover all the hidden treasures of this exceptional library.
11. Stroll through the old Carmine district
The Carmine is a picturesque neighborhood near Piazza Loggia, where young people gather in the evenings. Accessible via the San Faustino metro station, this area is full of beautiful churches, historic buildings, bistros and small cafés that fill up after dinner. During the day, the neighborhood is bustling with students. The narrow streets and charming corners of the Carmine make it a must-visit place to discover the authentic atmosphere of Brescia.
See also our article dedicated to Holidays in Italy: where to escape the crowds?
12. Piazza Vittoria, Brescia's third-largest square
Piazza Vittoria, Brescia's third-largest square after Piazza Loggia and Piazza Paolo VI, is an ideal place for an open-air stroll in the city center. The square is distinguished by its austere, imposing Fascist-era architectural style. You can admire the Palazzo della Poste and one of Italy's first skyscrapers on the west side. The shopping arcades on the east and west sides create a pleasing play of symmetry. The square offers a striking contrast with the city's narrow streets and more intimate squares.
13. Visit Teatro Grande, one of Italy's most important theaters
Brescia's Teatro Grande is considered one of Italy's most important theaters and was recognized as a national monument in 1912. Today, Teatro Grande offers a varied program of operas, ballets, concerts, dance performances, cultural initiatives and children's projects. In addition to the rich season of operas, ballets, dance and concerts organized by the Teatro Grande Foundation, every year the International Piano Festival welcomes some of the world's most prestigious conductors, soloists and orchestras.
14. Taste Brescia's typical culinary specialties
Brescia is renowned for its traditional cuisine, typical of Italy and the Lombardy region. You can sample local specialties such as"casoncello", a kind of ravioli stuffed with meat and cheese, or"risotto alla pilota", a risotto prepared with saffron and beef marrow. Meat lovers will appreciate "busecca", a tripe-based soup, or "salame di Brescia", a typical regional cold cut. Local cheeses such as "grana padano" and "gorgonzola" are also worth sampling. Local wines such as Franciacorta and Capriano del Colle are also worth discovering to accompany these tasty dishes. We recommend that you sample these culinary specialties from our selection of the city's best restaurants and trattorias.
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15. Take an excursion to the island of Monte Isola
Located close to Lake Iseo, Brescia offers a wide range of excursions to explore the surrounding area. One of the most popular is a visit to the island of Monte Isola . Nicknamed the "mountain in the middle of the sea" by the Republic of Venice, this island is the largest inhabited lake island in Europe, measuring 4.3 km in length. It is home to a dozen small fishing villages, rich in artistic testimony, charming squares lined with arcades and historic buildings with loggias.
Did you like our article? Discover our article What to do in Italy? 27 must-sees or Italy's 15 most beautiful villages.
Book in advance the trendiest things to do on your vacation in Brescia:
Where to stay in Brescia?
Brescia, a city in northern Italy, offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors. The Historic Center (Centro Storico) is the heart of Brescia, where you'll find many historical and cultural sites. There are several hotels, apartments and bed & breakfasts in this area. The Station District (Stazione) is ideal if you plan to travel by train. There are several affordable and convenient hotels close to the station. If you're in Brescia on business, the business district (Sanpolino) is a good choice. There are several business hotels and conference centers in this area.
Discover our three favorite accommodations in Brescia:
Built in 1938, the Hotel Vittoria is a veritable Brescia institution. It offers every possible comfort and refinement, with its marble-clad columned lobby and Art Nouveau-style breakfast room. The real highlight is the superb terrace overlooking the Duomo and Baradello Castle. Ideal for a summer drink. Tempted? Click here to book your stay.
- The one with the best view: Albergo Orologio
The Albergo Orologio is a pretty little 3-star hotel offering rooms with a view over the rooftops of Brescia and the Clock Tower. A landmark address since 1893 , it now boasts a number of regulars. The furnishings, tones, service and cleanliness are all appreciated, as is the smiling, always-available welcome. We recommend rooms on higher floors, where you'll enjoy a lovely view. Click here to book your stay.
- The quietest: Regal Hotel & Apartments
Set in a tree-lined street overlooking the green hills,the Regal Hotel & Apartments is a 3-star hotel in Brescia. It's just a 6-minute walk from a subway station and 12 minutes from the Museo Civico di Scienze Naturali. The hotel features a restaurant and a rooftop swimming pool open in season. 2-bedroom apartments with kitchenette and dining table are also available. Click here to book your stay.
What to see in Brescia in 1 day
Brescia is a city rich in history and culture, and while it's difficult to see everything in a single day, here's a suggested itinerary to make the most of your visit:
- Piazza della Loggia: Start your day by visiting this beautiful square surrounded by historic buildings, such as the Palazzo della Loggia and the Astronomical Clock. Enjoy a coffee in one of the piazza's cafés.
- Tempio Capitolino and Santa Giulia: Head for the monastic complex of Santa Giulia, home to the city's museum. Don't miss the Tempio Capitolino, a well-preserved Roman temple inside the complex.
- Duomo Vecchio and Duomo Nuovo: Visit Brescia's two cathedrals, the Duomo Vecchio (Old Cathedral) and the Duomo Nuovo (New Cathedral), located next to each other in Piazza Paolo VI.
- Castello di Brescia: Take the funicular up to Brescia Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city. Explore the castle walls and gardens.
- Piazza della Vittoria: Get off the castle and head for Piazza della Vittoria, a modern square surrounded by elegant buildings and arcades.
- Lunch: Enjoy lunch in one of the city's many restaurants, sampling local specialties such as casoncello (stuffed pasta) or risotto alla franciacortina (mushroom and cheese risotto).
- Pinacoteca Tosio Martinengo: After lunch, visit the Pinacoteca Tosio Martinengo, an art museum housing works by Italian painters such as Raphael, Titian and Bellini.
- Shopping: Enjoy a shopping spree on downtown streets such as Via X Giornate and Corso Zanardelli, where you'll find fashion boutiques and souvenir stores.
- Aperitivo: End your day with an aperitivo (Italian aperitif) in one of the city's many bars, with a spritz or a glass of local wine.
Where to eat in Brescia
Brescia offers a variety of culinary options, from traditional restaurants and family-run trattorias to pizzerias and wine bars. Here are a few suggestions for eating out in Brescia:
- The friendliest: I Du Dela Contrada
I Du Dela Contrada is a friendly bistro just a few steps from the city center, offering tasty traditional cuisine. The menu is always packed with meat specialties. Roasts, braised meats and cockerels on the spit are always appreciated. Welcoming and friendly, with excellent value for money.
- The most original: La Sosta
La Sosta is housed in the stables of a former aristocratic palace in Brescia. It has become a benchmark in the region. Its cuisine is linked to the land and its traditions. Chef Ezio Colombo's suggestions include risotto with pumpkin, basil and black pepper, or Brescian-style kid served with Castagnato polenta.
- The most authentic: Osteria Al Bianchi
This small, family-run osteria, just a few steps from Piazza della Loggia, has an old-fashioned atmosphere that makes it so charming. Among the must-try dishes are malfatti ( ricotta and spinach ravioli) with melted butter and stracotto d'asino con polenta (marinated donkey meat with polenta), vino della casa (wine by the jug) and homemade desserts. Sincere, tasty cuisine in a friendly, courteous atmosphere. Excellent value for money.
Where to park in Brescia?
Brescia has several parking options for visitors arriving by car. Here are a few suggestions for parking in Brescia:
- There areseveral underground parking lots in Brescia city center, offering easy access to the main tourist attractions. The most convenient underground parking lots are the Parcheggio Vittori, located beneath Piazza Vittoria, close to the historic center. There's also the Parcheggio Arnaldo beneath Piazza Arnaldo, close to the railway station, and the Parcheggio Castello beneath Brescia Castle, close to the funicular up to the castle.
- There arealso several surface parking lots in the city, which can be a cheaper option than underground parking. The most convenient surface parking lots are Parcheggio Pendolina, located near the railway station, about 10 minutes' walk from the historic center. There's also the Parcheggio Lamarmora, close to the historic center, about 5 minutes' walk from Piazza della Loggia, and the Parcheggio Fiera next to Brescia's exhibition center, about 15 minutes' walk from the historic center.
- there area number of free parking areas on the outskirts of the city, from where you can take public transport to the city center. The most convenient free parking areas are Via Bazoli, about 10 minutes by bus from the historic center, Via Orzinuovi, 15 minutes by bus from the historic center, and Via Dalmazia, also 15 minutes by bus from the historic center.
Be sure to check parking rates and opening hours before you park, as they can vary according to location and day of the week. It's also advisable to pay attention to residents-only parking zones and limited traffic zones (ZTL) in the historic center.
What to visit around Brescia
Brescia is surrounded by many interesting tourist attractions, from lakes to historic towns to nature parks. Here are a few suggestions for visiting the area around Brescia:
- Located around 30 kilometers west of Brescia, Lake Garda is Italy's largest lake and offers many activities, such as boating, swimming, hiking and visiting picturesque towns such as Sirmione, Desenzano del Garda and Riva del Garda.
It'salso the perfect opportunity to book your tandem paragliding flight over Lake Garda right here. Make your trip unforgettable! Accompanied by a professional, you'll glide over Lake Garda and enjoy an incredible view of the lake surrounded by the Alps and lush forests.
- Located around 30 kilometers north of Brescia, Lake Iseo is a smaller, quieter lake than Lake Garda. It is famous for its Monte Isola island, which is the largest lake island in Europe and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
- Located some 20 kilometers west of Brescia, the Franciacorta region is famous for its high-quality sparkling wines. You can visit the local wineries, taste the wines and enjoy the surrounding countryside.
- Situated some 50 kilometers west of Brescia, Bergamo is a historic city divided into two parts : the upper town (Città Alta) and the lower town (Città Bassa). The upper town is surrounded by Venetian walls and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
- Located some 60 kilometers southwest of Brescia, Cremona is a historic city known for its violins and Gothic cathedral. You can visit the violin museum, attend a classical music concert and sample local specialties such as tortelli di zucca (pumpkin ravioli).
If you're tempted by this selection, take a look at our airfares and book now!
