Pavia is the kind of place that sneaks up on you, charming streets, centuries-old towers, and a relaxed vibe that makes you want to linger. This is a city where Gothic arches meet Romanesque stonework, where university courtyards hum with student chatter, and where a good glass of wine feels right at home. Add it to your Lombardy wine tours itinerary and you’ll discover a side of northern Italy that’s as rich in flavor as it is in history. Whether you’re here for a lazy lunch by the Ticino River, a stroll through its medieval center, or a quick escape from Milan, visiting Pavia is all about slowing down, looking up, and enjoying every little detail.
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Visit Pavia: Top things to do in town
Visit the Basilica of San Michele Maggiore
In the heart of Pavia, the Basilica of San Michele Maggiore is where history and atmosphere meet. Get inside and you’re greeted by cool stone, high arches, and that quiet, almost mysterious vibe only centuries-old churches have. Outside, the honey-colored façade is dotted with intricate carvings that hint at the stories this place has seen, including royal coronations.
Admire the Duomo di Pavia
Right in the heart of Pavia, the Duomo is impossible to miss, its massive dome (the third largest in Italy) seems to follow you no matter where you are in the city. Built over centuries with a little help from Leonardo da Vinci and Donato Bramante, it’s the kind of place that makes you pause mid-gelato just to take it in. Step inside for that satisfying mix of grandeur and calm, where sunlight spills through tall windows and every detail whispers “you’re in Italy now.”
Wander the historic centre and Piazza della Vittoria
Pavia’s old town is the kind of place where you wander “just for a minute” and end up staying all afternoon. Narrow medieval streets open onto sunny piazzas, the smell of espresso drifts from café doors, and locals claim the best tables for an aperitivo. In Piazza della Vittoria, the city’s social living room, grab a seat, order something bubbly, and watch life go by. And don’t miss the Broletto, the old town hall, quietly showing off its graceful arches and courtyard charm.
Step back in time at Visconti Castle
Back in 1360, Galeazzo II Visconti built this castle to flex his power, and it worked. The Visconti Castle still stands tall, its brick walls and towers framing a courtyard that feels straight out of a medieval film set. These days, instead of armored dukes, you’ll find the Pavia Civic Museums tucked inside, filled with Gothic art, Roman relics, Renaissance paintings, and quirky pieces of local history. It’s a mix of grandeur and curiosity that’s easy to get lost in.
Cross the Covered Bridge
The version you see today was rebuilt in the 20th century after the original medieval bridge was destroyed in WWII, but it still carries all the charm. Walk across its red-brick arches, watch the water roll by, and time your visit for sunset when the river turns gold, easily one of the most photogenic moments you’ll have in Pavia.
Visit the Church of San Pietro in Ciel d’Oro
San Pietro in Ciel d’Oro isn’t just another beautiful church in Pavia, it’s a place steeped in stories. Dating back to 825, it shelters the relics of St Augustine and philosopher Boethius, making it a true pilgrimage spot for history lovers. Step inside and you’ll see how its Romanesque curves meet golden mosaics that seem to glow in the quiet light.
Walk along Via Strada Nuova
Strolling down Strada Nuova is like following Pavia’s main thread, it pulls you straight from the train station into the heart of the old town. Lined with elegant façades, little shops, and glimpses of those proud medieval towers peeking above the rooftops, this street makes you wander slowly, coffee in hand, letting the city’s rhythm guide you.
Be amazed by Santa Maria del Carmine
Rising in red brick against Pavia’s skyline, Santa Maria del Carmine grabs attention with its pointed arches and striking rose window. Step inside to find vaulted ceilings, intricate details, and frescoes that add bursts of color to the Gothic stonework. The calm, echoing space makes it a welcome pause from the busy streets outside.
Walk the Borgo Ticino district
Cross the Ponte Coperto and you’ll find yourself in Borgo Ticino, where Pavia slows down. Narrow streets lead to family-run osterie, riverside paths, and homes draped in flowers. It’s the spot to linger over seasonal dishes with a glass of local wine while the Ticino flows quietly by.
Visit Pavia: Top things to do around
Explore the iconic Certosa di Pavia
5 miles from Pavia’s center, the Certosa di Pavia is no ordinary monastery. Commissioned in 1396 by Gian Galeazzo Visconti, this Carthusian complex is a dazzling mix of Lombard Gothic drama and Renaissance elegance. The façade is a riot of carved marble and statues, inside you’ll find frescoes and gold mosaics that make you forget to blink. Wander through the peaceful cloisters, then step back outside to take in the detail-packed exterior one more time.
Discover Milan’s urban winery adventure
Just steps from the buzz of Milan’s Navigli district, this is Italy’s first-ever winery tucked right inside the city. Here, you can tour a compact yet inviting production space, see how wine is crafted from grape to glass, and settle into friendly tastings featuring 4 to 6 house-made wines, each paired with local cheeses and cured meats. It’s where wine meets city life, in a way you never saw coming.
Wander around Vigevano
Located just 40 minutes northwest of Pavia, the historic town of Vigevano dazzles visitors with its breathtaking Piazza Ducale, one of the finest examples of Renaissance town squares in Italy. Built under the rule of Ludovico il Moro and harmonized by Leonardo da Vinci and Donato Bramante, this square is flanked by arcades, antique cafés, and the majestic Duomo. Nearby, the Castello Sforzesco of Vigevano, connected by covered walkways, stands as a testament to Visconti and Sforza power.
Discover a sparkling escape in Lombardy
Perched in the heart of Oltrepò Pavese, this family-owned winery offers a refreshing twist on tradition. Walk through sun-dappled vineyards and behind-the-scenes cellar doors, then settle in for a tasting of sparkling wines crafted with passion and flair, Brut, Rosé, and Zero Dosage among them. As glasses clink and local snacks appear, you’ll feel perfectly at ease in this slice of northern Italy where good wine meets warmth.
Stroll through the rice fields of Lomellina
About 45 minutes from Pavia, the wide-open landscapes of Lomellina unfold in a patchwork of rice paddies, quiet villages, and winding riverbanks. Known as the cradle of Italy’s risotto rice, this fertile corner of Lombardy also surprises with beautiful Romanesque churches like the Abbey of Sant’Albino. It’s the countryside escape where you can swap city cobblestones for scenic bike rides, follow wine and food trails, and pause in timeless piazzas with a glass of local red.
Savor a day in Milan
Less than 45 minutes by train from Pavia, Milan offers a perfect mix of culture, fashion, and flavor. Start your visit at the iconic Duomo, stroll through the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and take in masterpieces at the Pinacoteca di Brera. Between sightseeing, treat yourself to a wine tasting Milan experience, whether it’s a trendy enoteca in Brera or a hidden spot in Navigli, it’s the ideal way to pause and savor the city’s cosmopolitan charm.
It’s time to discover the best things to do in Milan!
Good to know before visiting Pavia
Is Pavia worth visiting?
Yes, Pavia is absolutely worth visiting, especially for travelers interested in history, architecture, culture, and authentic Italian experiences without the crowds. Located just 35 km south of Milan, this charming university city offers beautifully preserved medieval architecture, Romanesque churches, and a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with Italy’s more tourist-heavy cities. Whether you’re strolling through its cobbled streets, admiring historical landmarks, or tasting local Lombard delicacies, Pavia provides a rich and rewarding travel experience.
What is Pavia famous for?
Pavia is known for its prestigious university, the University of Pavia, founded in 1361, which is one of the oldest in Europe. The city also boasts significant historical landmarks such as the Certosa di Pavia—an impressive Renaissance monastery complex—and the relics of famous scholars like Saint Augustine and Leonardo da Vinci’s influence on some of its local art. Pavia’s architecture, Romanesque churches, and ancient bridges like the Ponte Coperto add to its renown.
What are the top things to do in Pavia?
Visitors to Pavia can enjoy a variety of experiences. Here are some highlights:
- Visit the Certosa di Pavia, a monumental Carthusian monastery rich in art and history.
- Explore the Historic Center with its charming streets and medieval towers.
- Walk across the Ponte Coperto, a reconstructed medieval bridge over the Ticino River.
- Check out the Basilica of San Michele Maggiore, an outstanding Romanesque church.
- Relax at the Orto Botanico (Botanical Gardens) near the university.
- Take a peaceful riverside walk or explore local wine and food in nearby Oltrepò Pavese.
What is Pavia known for?
Pavia is primarily known for its history as a political and cultural capital during the Roman and Lombard periods. It served as the capital of the Kingdom of the Lombards and is also notable as a center of learning due to its university. Architecturally, it is known for its Romanesque and Gothic buildings, notably the Certosa di Pavia and the Basilica of San Pietro in Ciel d’Oro, as well as its medieval towers and bridges. Additionally, it’s known for its wine production in the surrounding countryside.
What are the best hotels to stay in Pavia?
Pavia offers a range of accommodations, from charming boutique hotels to comfortable B&Bs. Here are some of the top-rated options:
- Hotel Moderno – A 4-star hotel located near the train station with elegant rooms and a wellness area.
- Le Stanze del Cardinale – A boutique residence in the heart of Pavia, offering stylish rooms with historical touches.
- Foresteria Pellegrini – Cozy accommodation near the Certosa di Pavia, great for countryside stays.
- Pavia AffittaCamere – An affordable and clean option ideal for short stays near the city center.
- Agriturismo Cascina Scova – A nature-surrounded stay offering spa treatments and outdoor pools, perfect for relaxation.
What are the best restaurants in Pavia?
Pavia is a great place to try traditional Lombard and local dishes, including risotti, polenta-based plates, and regional wines. Here are some must-visit eateries:
- Antica Osteria del Previ – Serves classic Lombard cuisine in a historic setting, with specialties like risotto alla pavese.
- Trattoria Da Carlo – Cozy, family-run, and known for generous portions and high-quality local dishes.
- Osteria della Malora – Offers a more rustic menu, great for meat lovers and traditional recipes.
- Ittico – A stylish seafood restaurant with excellent presentations and Mediterranean cuisine influence.
- Peo Bistrot – A modern spot mixing local ingredients with innovative cooking techniques and wine pairings.
How many days should I spend in Pavia?
Spending 1 to 2 days in Pavia is ideal for most travelers. One day allows you to cover the city’s major sights, including the historic center, a couple of churches, the university, and a leisurely walk along the river. If you plan to visit the Certosa di Pavia or take a wine tour in the nearby Oltrepò Pavese hills, a second day is highly recommended to fully enjoy the experience at a relaxed pace.
How do I get to Pavia from Milan?
Pavia is easily accessible from Milan with regional trains running frequently between Milano Centrale and Pavia train station. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive or take a bus, but trains are the most convenient and efficient option.
Is Pavia a good day trip from Milan?
Yes, Pavia makes an excellent day trip from Milan. Its proximity, historical significance, and relaxed atmosphere make it a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can explore most of the central attractions in a day and still have time for a long lunch at a local osteria and a walk along the river.
What is the best time of the year to visit Pavia?
The best times to visit Pavia are spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant for exploring the city on foot, and the countryside surrounding Pavia is especially beautiful. Summer (July–August) can be warm but not overwhelmingly crowded, while winter is quiet and serene, ideal for travelers who prefer fewer tourists.
