Pavia

Pavia, a city in Lombardy 35 km south of Milan, has centuries of history and a large student population due to its university. As you walk its cobblestone streets, you'll see Romanesque churches like San Michele Maggiore, Renaissance palaces such as Visconti Castle, and the University of Pavia, one of Europe's oldest. Other notable sights include the Duomo with its massive dome, the Ponte Coperto bridge spanning the Ticino River, and the Certosa di Pavia monastery just outside the city.

Exploring Pavia's Historic Center

Pavia's compact historic center contains numerous medieval towers and churches. The Duomo's large dome is visible from many parts of the city. Inside, you can see Renaissance frescoes and sculptures. The Basilica of San Michele Maggiore, located nearby, is a Romanesque building with intricate stone carvings on its facade. The 14th-century Visconti Castle now houses the city's civic museums, where you can learn about local history.

University of Pavia

The University of Pavia, established in 1361, is one of Europe's oldest institutions of higher learning. You can visit the historic university buildings, including the 18th-century central building with its courtyards. The university museums cover various fields of study, from medicine to natural history. The botanical garden, created in 1773, has over 2,000 plant species and is a calm space in the city center.

Crossing the Ponte Coperto

The Ponte Coperto is a covered bridge over the Ticino River, linking the historic center to the Borgo Ticino neighborhood. This brick and stone structure was rebuilt after World War II, replacing a medieval bridge that had stood for centuries. You can walk across the bridge for views of the river and city skyline. In the evening, lights illuminate the bridge, creating a pleasant ambiance.

Visiting the Certosa di Pavia

The Certosa di Pavia, a former Carthusian monastery founded in 1396, is located about 8 km north of Pavia. It has a detailed marble facade, frescoed interiors, and a cloister. You can take a guided tour to learn about the monastery's history and see works by prominent Italian artists. To get to the Certosa from Pavia's center, you can take a bus or taxi.

Local Cuisine

Pavia's food traditions reflect its location in Lombardy's rice-growing region. The city's signature dish is zuppa pavese, a soup made with broth, bread, egg, and cheese. You'll find many risotto dishes on local menus, often made with Carnaroli rice grown nearby. The surrounding Oltrepò Pavese wine region produces red and sparkling wines that pair well with local dishes.

Getting Around Pavia

You can easily explore Pavia on foot, as most attractions in the historic center are within walking distance of each other. For longer trips or visits to the Certosa, use the local bus network. Many people also use bicycles to get around, with bike-sharing services available. If you're coming from Milan, trains connect the two cities in about 30 minutes.