Things To Do
in Brescia

Brescia, located in northern Italy, is a vibrant city rich in history and culture. It's known for its stunning architecture, including the Roman ruins and medieval castles that dot the landscape. Brescia is also famous for its local cuisine, which blends traditional Italian flavors with regional specialties.

The city's lively atmosphere, combined with its strategic location near Lake Garda and the Alps, makes it a perfect destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Brescia
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Brescia Castle, where you can explore the fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

afternoon
:

Head to the Piazza della Loggia to admire the Renaissance architecture and have lunch at a nearby café. Then, visit the Santa Giulia Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional restaurant in the city center and enjoy a glass of local wine, followed by a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets of Brescia.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day at the Duomo Vecchio (Old Cathedral), followed by a visit to the Duomo Nuovo (New Cathedral) to appreciate the architectural contrasts.

afternoon
:

Explore the local food market at Mercato di Brescia, where you can sample fresh produce and local delicacies. Afterward, visit the Tempio Capitolino, an ancient Roman temple.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with dinner at a pizzeria, enjoying a slice of authentic Italian pizza before heading to a local bar for live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$8
Coffee$2
🍷Glass of Wine$5
🥖Baguette$1.50
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Delicious local cuisine and wine.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Less touristy compared to other Italian cities.
  • Public transport can be limited outside city center.
  • Some attractions may have limited English translations.
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Brescia

Visit one of these nice places.

Brescia Castle

A historic fortress providing stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape.

Piazza della Loggia

A beautiful square with Renaissance architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of Brescia.

Duomo Vecchio

The Old Cathedral's unique architecture and interior make it a great spot for architectural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Brescia

Brescia offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects its rich cultural heritage and regional ingredients. Local dishes are hearty and flavorful, often highlighting the area’s agricultural bounty.

Brescia Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Casoncelli

Stuffed pasta typically filled with meat, bread, and cheese, served with butter and sage.

Must-Try!

Polenta e Osei

A traditional dish of polenta served with small birds, often enjoyed during local festivals.

Spiedo Bresciano

A dish of meat skewered and roasted, often paired with polenta.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato di Brescia

A vibrant market offering fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Street Food at Piazza della Loggia

Various food stalls offering local specialties like arancini and panzerotti.

Climate Guide

Weather

Brescia experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winters can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rain is common in spring and autumn, making these seasons lush and green. Overall, the city enjoys a fair amount of sunshine throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start your meal.

Dress Code

Smart casual attire is preferred, especially in restaurants.

Safety Guide

Safety

Brescia is generally considered a safe city for tourists, but standard safety precautions should be observed. Keep an eye on personal belongings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid poorly lit streets at night. Emergency services are reliable, with a local police presence ensuring safety in the city.

Tipping in Brescia

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip, typically between 5-10%.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a wonderful time to explore outdoor attractions.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists; it’s ideal for enjoying Lake Garda and outdoor dining.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage offer picturesque views and local harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold weather, with occasional snow, perfect for enjoying cozy indoor activities and festive holiday markets.

Nightlife Guide

Brescia at Night

Brescia's nightlife is vibrant and varied, with numerous bars, pubs, and clubs catering to different tastes. The area around Piazza Loggia is particularly lively, offering a mix of traditional osterias and modern cocktail bars. Live music events frequently take place, and the local crowd is enthusiastic and welcoming, making it a great place to mingle and enjoy the local scene.

Hiking in Brescia

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentiero del Monte Maddalena

A scenic trail offering panoramic views of Brescia and the surrounding landscape, suitable for various skill levels.

Lake Garda Trail

A beautiful trail along the shores of Lake Garda, perfect for those looking to enjoy nature and stunning lake views.

Airports

How to reach Brescia by plane.

Orio al Serio International Airport

Located approximately 50 km from Brescia, this airport serves as a hub for low-cost airlines and offers connections to many European cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Brescia is a highly walkable city, especially in the historic center where many attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within walking distance. Pedestrian-friendly streets make navigation easy, and the city’s compact layout allows for leisurely strolls. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, making it comfortable for visitors to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Brescia has a diverse population, with many locals engaged in agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.

Students

The city is home to several universities, attracting students from various regions and countries, contributing to its youthful atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Brescia, with local team Brescia Calcio competing in the Italian leagues.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys a strong following, with local teams participating in national leagues and engaging the community.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Brescia can be moderate, especially during rush hours. The city has a reliable public transportation system, including buses that connect various neighborhoods and nearby cities. However, parking can be challenging in the historic center, so using public transport or walking is often recommended.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Brescia.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for modifications.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free pasta is available in some establishments; always confirm with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Brescia is accessible with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. The public healthcare system provides emergency services, while private healthcare options are also available. Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance that covers health care abroad for peace of mind.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide