The 7 castles to visit in Lombardy

Lombardy never ceases to enchant and attracts numerous visitors every year thanks to its multiple charms: from the city of Milan to the mountain villages, a timeless beauty envelops this land that is really worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.

Rich in history and culture, this northern Italian region is able to tickle the imagination of young and old alike by evoking ancient and enchanting atmospheres thanks to the presence of the many castles scattered throughout the territory.

Are you ready to set out to discover the 7 most beautiful castles in Lombardy? Let's discover together those that are absolutely not to be missed during a trip out of town. Among the most important ones you cannot miss

castelli_in_Lombardia

Vezio Castle

On the promontory overlooking the village of Varenne in the province of Lecco, stands one of the most evocative castles in Lombardy: Vezio Castle, in the heart of one of the most enchanting scenic areas on Lake Como. Shrouded in a halo of legends and mystery, among the special features of this place should definitely be mentioned the plaster ghost sculptures that make the castle unique.

Here it is possible to admire the surrounding walls, the watchtower with the drawbridge that allows access and the dungeons. All in a green setting of plants and olive groves.

For more information or if you want to book a guided tour, it is good to keep up to date on the official website of Vezio Castle, remembering that access is allowed only from March to October.

Castle of Pagazzano

Pagazzano Castle, on the other hand, is lost in the beauty of the fields in the lower Bergamo plain and traces its origins to the 13th and 16th centuries.

Themoat still filled with water and the drawbridge keep all the beauty of the structure intact, so much so that it gives back the feeling to the onlooker that he has just stepped out of a storybook. Currently, the interior spaces of Pagazzano Castle have been used to host interesting interactive exhibitions such as:

  • Museum ofPeasant Civilization
  • Historical Museum of Pagazzano and the Border Castles
  • M.A.G.O., which collects archaeological finds unearthed during work on the Bre-Be-Mi highway

Malpaga Castle

Not far from Bergamo and less than an hour from Milan is Malpaga Castle: set in the middle of the countryside, the castle is shielded from view by service buildings such as stables, lodgings and agricultural warehouses. Only later are the battlements of the towers, which soar imposing and lonely, visible.

Inside the castle are preserved 14th-century and Renaissance frescoes, some of them by the famous Brescian painter Romanino.

For a truly unforgettable experience, we recommend visiting the castle on a destate night with the guidance of an astronomer who will accompany dreamers to discover the celestial vault.

castelli_in_Lombardia

Fortress of Angera

Among the most popular destinations on the tour of discovery of castles in Lombardy cannot miss the Rocca di Angera, situated on a rocky outcrop overlooking the shores of Lake Maggiore. Here it is possible to visit the castle's Historic Halls and Medieval Garden. The structure currently houses the Museum of Dolls and Toys, a real attraction that especially involves the youngest children.

Sforza Castle

If you are around the city of Milan, among the main attractions not to be missed is the Sforzesco Castle. Dating back to the 15th century, if in the beginning it had more of a military and defensive function, today it houses interesting museums inside including:

Among the most interesting exhibition spaces are:

  • Museum of Ancient Art
  • Pinacoteca del Castello Sforzesco
  • Museum of Musical Instruments
  • Pietà Rondanini Museum, dedicated to the last work created by Michelangelo
  • Museum of Furniture and Wooden Sculptures
  • Civic Collections of Applied Art
castelli_in_Lombardia

Scaliger Castle of Sirmione

If, on the other hand, you are looking for a romantic and exciting place, the choice can only fall on the Rocca Scaligera of Sirmione located on a promontory in the heart of Lake Garda.

Around is still palpable an authentic medieval atmosphere kept alive by the intact appearance of the structure: towers, battlements, moat and drawbridge make it a splendid example of Scaligera fortification.

From here one also has the opportunity to walk along the patrol paths and admire the fortified dock, in a spectacle that fascinates the eye and fills the heart.

Castles of Mantua

Last but not least, the Castles of Mantua deserve special mention. This territory had animportant strategic function, and the landscape was gradually characterized over the centuries by castles and fortifications.

Among these, the Castle of San Giorgio certainly deserves a special visit, which in the mid-15th century became the magnificent residence of the Gonzaga family, with the famous Bridal Chamber frescoed by Andrea Mantegna.

These are just some of the most fascinating places to visit in Milan or on an out-of-town trip to Lombardy. The best solution to fully enjoy this experience is to look for vacation apartments in Milan.

Booking one of the weekend solutions from BarbarHouse's extensive catalog, allows you to have a foothold in the very center of the city, within easy reach of the major places of interest. The city center, in fact, is well equipped with urban services, which allow you to move quietly and economically to the different areas of the region as well.

<a rel='nofollow' href="en/lombardy/holidays-in-milan/holiday-apartments-in-milan/" "target="_BLANK" alt="castles to visit in Lombardy" title="Discover our apartments" style="text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer"> <button style="background-color: #00598a; cursor: pointer; border-spacing: 10px; font-size: 14px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: center; color: #ffffff; font-weight: normal; padding-left: 18px; padding-right: 18px; border-radius: 4px; border-width: 0px; border-style: none; border-color: #0000; height: 40px; margin: 0px auto; display: inline" type="button"> <div style="font-size: 14px; font-weight: 800"> Discover our apartments <div style="clear: both"> </div> </div> </button> </a> </div> </div>

Latest articles

News

National Turn for BarbarHouse: Holiday Homes in Italy

BarbarHouse: a success storyEstablished in Casarano in the heart of Puglia, BarbarHouse has always had customer satisfaction as its main goal. Its mission is to offer the tourist a level of service and selection of properties that can meet every expectation.Through our selection of unique properties and attention to detail, we've built a solid reputation that has allowed us to grow and dream big. A passion for hospitality and a love for our area have been the pillars upon which we've built our success.Discover our ever-growing selection of accommodations, including vacation homes, apartments, B&Bs, residences, farmhouses, luxury homes, villas and cottages, all exclusively BarbarHouse.READ ALSO:BarbarHouse triumphs at Stars of Southern Italy 2024.A New Chapter: Holiday Homes throughout ItalyToday, we are proud to say that our vacation rentals are no longer limited to the region of Puglia. We have expanded to other regions of Italy, from north to south, including Marche, Lombardy, Liguria, Lazio, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Piedmont, Sardinia, Tuscany, Trentino, Valle d'Aosta, and Veneto.Whether it's a villa with a sea view on the most beautiful beaches of Sardinia or a lake view on the shores of Lake Maggiore, a farmhouse nestled in the Tuscan countryside or an apartment in the heart of Rome, we have the perfect solution for every need and desire for a vacation.Comfort and Quality everywhere: our commitment to the futureEach property in our portfolio has been carefully selected to ensure the highest standardsofquality and comfort. We offer a wide range of options, from the most economical to luxury solutions, all characterized by impeccable service. In addition, we are committed to maintaining a direct and transparent relationship with our clients, ensuring support and assistance at every stage of the stay.This expansion represents only the beginning of a new adventure. We will continue to work with dedication and passion to constantly improve our services and further expand our offerings. Our goal is to make every stay in our vacation homes synonymous with relaxation, discovery and happiness.Discover our new destinations and book your next vacation with us!YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN: The most beautiful lakes in Lombardy The 7 castles to visit in Lombardy The most Instagrammable places in Milan Sardinia Airports 5 things to know before leaving for Puglia Puglia AirportsLooking for more tips to make the most of your vacation?Click here!BarbarHouse has an extensive catalog of vacation homes and villas in Italy. Its offer covers all kinds of needs: from apartments in the city or in historic centers to villas by the sea, to budget and luxury accommodations such as hotels, residences and B&Bs.Authors: the BarbarHouse editorial staffMarcello De Vincenti Silvia Lazzari
Read more
Guides

Affordable places in Italy for retired U.S. citizens: top destinations

MilanThose who are not ready to give up the energetic nightlife, vibrant city lifestyle and wealth of activities will feel right at home in Milan. This Italian city offers a high quality of life, quality health care, and an exciting atmosphere that everyone can enjoy. Although the cost of living is slightly on the higher end of this list, it is still worth considering for U.S. citizens.ApuliaHeading south to the "heel" of Italy's iconic boot shape, Puglia's Mediterranean landscape and rich coastline make it the perfect destination for a lively but relaxed retirement. Those who desire Italian sunshine and relaxing days on the beach in luxury without spending a fortune will find the perfect balance in Puglia. Whether it's a seaside villa or a country home nestled in an olive grove, Puglia offers the best of both worlds, including a low cost of living, cultural charm, and slow-paced living.Must-see towns and beaches in PugliaLocated in southeastern Italy, Puglia offers a fascinating mix of tradition and modernity. Its enchanting medieval villages, Baroque towns and restored farmhouses offer a fascinating immersion in Italian history and culture. From Lecce, with its superb examples of Baroque architecture, to Ostuni, the "White City," with its picturesque winding streets and whitewashed houses, Puglia is a region full of treasures to discover.For retirees who wish to spend their days relaxing on the beach, Puglia does not disappoint. Its beaches, with their crystal-clear sea and long stretches of golden sand, offer the ideal environment for enjoying the Italian sun and soaking up the dolce vita. From Pescoluse beach, affectionately known as "The Maldives of Salento," to Porto Selvaggio beach, surrounded by a protected nature reserve, there are options for all tastes.In addition, Puglia is renowned for its delicious and authentic cuisine. From orecchiette with turnip greens to fresh seafood caught daily, retirees can delight in the authentic flavors of Apulian cuisine without spending a fortune. And with the many local markets and traditional festivals held throughout the year, there's always something new to taste and discover.Puglia embodies the perfect balance of vibrant and relaxed living, offering U.S. retirees an unforgettable retirement experience. With its breathtaking landscape, rich culture, and gentle, authentic lifestyle, Puglia is a destination that never disappoints.Le MarcheLocated on the Adriatic coast, Le Marche offers breathtaking scenery, enchanting medieval villages and a peaceful pace of life perfect for retirees. With a combination of mountains, hills, and coastline, this region has much to offer in terms of natural beauty. In addition, property prices and cost of living are generally lower than in other, more touristy areas of Italy, making Le Marche an affordable option for U.S. retirees.Must-see villages and landscapes in Le MarcheLe Marche, located along the Adriatic coast, offers a unique and fascinating retirement experience for U.S. citizens seeking tranquility and natural beauty. This enchanting region features breathtaking scenery, well-preserved medieval villages and a peaceful pace of life that makes it perfect for retirees.One of Marche's strengths is its scenic diversity. Here you can find majestic mountains, hills covered with vineyards and olive groves, and an enchanting coastline with golden beaches and cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea. This diversity offers endless opportunities to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the region.The medieval villages of Le Marche are a true treasure to discover. From Urbino, with its beautiful UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center, to Gradara, with its well-preserved castle and narrow cobblestone streets, every corner of Le Marche tells a fascinating story of the past.In addition, Marche boasts a low cost of living and affordable property prices compared to other, more touristy regions of Italy. This makes the region particularly attractive to U.S. retirees who wish to enjoy a comfortable life without spending a fortune. A wide range of housing options can be found here, from country homes nestled in the quiet of nature to scenic villas overlooking the sea.But what really makes Le Marche special is its authentic Italian lifestyle. Here retirees can immerse themselves in local culture, participate in local traditions and enjoy genuine Marche hospitality. From food festivals to cultural festivals, there's always something to do and discover in Le Marche.Book your vacation in Italy nowIf you'd like to have an unforgettable experience in these fascinating destinations, we invite you to book one of our vacation rentals. With a wide selection of properties from the BarbarHouse catalog to choose from, from scenic villas with sea views to rustic country homes surrounded by nature, we guarantee you a comfortable, authentic and unforgettable stay.Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture, taste delicious regional cuisine and discover the hidden treasures of Milan, Marche and Puglia. Book your dream stay now and get ready for an unforgettable experience in Italy!
Read more