Pavia

A historic university city on the Ticino River, Pavia is known for its medieval towers and stunning Certosa monastery. It was once the capital of the Lombard kingdom.

Things to do

• Visit the Certosa di Pavia — Arrive early to admire the intricate Renaissance facade without crowds.
• Walk the Covered Bridge (Ponte Coperto) — Cross this iconic medieval bridge over the Ticino for scenic river views.
• Explore Pavia Cathedral — Climb to the dome terrace for panoramic views over the city rooftops.
• Tour the Visconti Castle — Houses two museums; don't miss the painting by Giovanni Bellini inside.
• Stroll the University quarter — One of Europe's oldest universities; the courtyard is open to visitors.

Food to try

• Risotto alla certosina — A rich risotto with freshwater fish and vegetables, inspired by Certosa monks.
• Salame di Varzi — A DOP-certified cured salami from the nearby Oltrepò Pavese hills.
• Zuppa pavese — A simple egg-drop broth soup with croutons, born of medieval Pavia tradition.
• Torta paradiso — A soft, buttery sponge cake originally created in Pavia in the 19th century.

Local customs & good to know

• Monastery dress code — Cover shoulders and knees when visiting the Certosa di Pavia as it is an active monastery.
• Student city vibe — Pavia has a lively student culture; cafes and bars are very affordable compared to Milan.
• Siesta hours — Many shops and churches close between 12:30 and 15:00, so plan museum visits accordingly.