30 things worth doing in the province of Brescia in springtime

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Springtime brings a lot of enticing things for every taste and every age. From excursions by the lake to hiking in the mountains, from tastings at a Franciacorta winery to the charm of the historic Mille Miglia car race, Brescia and its province are the places to be in the spring if you want your stay to be filled with excitement.

Are you ready? Follow our tips on the 30 things worth doing in the province of Brescia in springtime!

1. Lake tour and evocative scenery

Breathe the spring breeze and let the water lull you on a beautiful sunny day. There are plenty of opportunities to choose from: an elegant and exclusive tour on Lake Iseo aboard a Riva motorboat, a thrilling cruise on Lake Garda with a view of Mount Baldo and the best panoramas in the area. Great news for Lake Idro as well: the naval authority organizes boat tours with stops at various towns and the chance to bring your bike on board.

2. The event of the year: the Mille Miglia car race

In Brescia, spring is synonymous with Mille Miglia, the “Most beautiful race in the world” according to Enzo Ferrari.

Over 400 vintage cars built between 1927 and 1957 annually gather from 30 countries worldwide to liven the city with their colors. In the shade of the castle, the cars will start their engines to race to Rome and then back to Brescia, where they will cross the finish line in a festive atmosphere.

Here is this year’s Mille Miglia program.

And if you are a fan of historic cars, don’t forget to visit the Mille Miglia Museum, for a real journey through the history of this event, loved all over the world.

3. Tour of Brescia’s Castle

Spring is the ideal time to visit the Castle of Brescia, the symbol of the city.

The fortification can be easily reached on foot from the historic center. Once you are on top of the hill, you will have the chance to cherish the enchanting view below, walk on the drawbridge and in hidden tunnels, and enjoy a drink at one of the bars outside the walls. Among the must-see points of interest:

• the Lionessa d’Italia Risorgimento Museum, in the new layout;
• the “Luigi Marzoli” Arms Museum;
• the Pusterla Vineyard, the largest urban vineyard in Europe located on the slopes of the castle and still dedicated to the production of wine, grappa, and jams.

4. A romantic stroll in Brescia

As you leave the Castle, in a few minutes you will reach the heart of Brescia’s historic center, the perfect destination for a romantic stroll. The tour starts with a visit to the three main squares: Piazza Loggia, Piazza Vittoria, and Piazza Paolo VI. From there, follow Via Musei, where you will find the Capitolium archaeological area with the Winged Victory and the Santa Giulia Museum, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

After the stroll in historic Brixia, it’s time to visit the fascinating art collection of the Tosio Martinengo Art Gallery and the evocative images of the most famous international photographers on stage with the Brescia Photo Festival initiatives.

Then you can relax with some shopping in Corso Zanardelli, Corso Palestro, Via X Giornate and end your day sipping a big pirlo, Brescia’s traditional aperitif chosen as “cocktail of the year” by the New York Times.

5. SPA relaxation

Do you need to completely unplug and relax with a sauna or Turkish bath? Or do you need beneficial inhalation treatments? As many as three thermal SPAs and wellness centers await you in the province: Terme di Sirmione – SPA & Thermal Garden, Terme di Boario, and Terme di Vallio.

Read also: Brescian SPAs, to bathe in wellness

6. Opera Festival and Piano Festival

In June, Brescia’s air fills with the notes of the Festival dell’Opera and above all the Festival Pianistico di Bergamo e Brescia, one of the most important international events dedicated to piano.

Some of the festival’s elegant venues in the city of Brescia are Teatro Grande, the Diocesan Museum, the Church of San Francesco and the Auditorium San Barnaba.

7. Vittoriale and a stroll in Gardone Riviera

Let’s go back to Lake Garda to visit the Vittoriale degli Italiani, a monumental complex created by the eclectic mind of poet Gabriele D’Annunzio and one of the top tourist attractions at Lake Garda. This stunning structure is immersed in a natural setting which encompasses elegant gardens, a lemon garden with belvedere terrace, and a magnificent amphitheater with view of the lake. In summer, the Tener-a-mente Festival is hosted here.

The Vittoriale is located in proximity to Gardone Riviera’s historic center. The town is one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy thanks to its colorful alleys and the lake front promenade. It’s one of the most photographed towns by the lake. The town also hosts the André Heller Botanical Garden, a unique collection of plants from all over the world.

8. Lemon garden tour with tasting

Once terraced structures used to grow oranges and lemons, today Lake Garda’s lemon gardens are at the core of an intense promotion effort.

The lemon gardens reopened to the public are Pra dela Fam in Tignale, La Malora in Gargnano, and Limonaia del Castel in Limone sul Garda. On selected dates, you can join a guided tour and purchase typical products.

9. Winery and oil mill tour with tasting

Wine and olive oil are two must-taste products in the province of Brescia. Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, Monte Isola, Franciacorta: there are countless opportunities to visit wineries and oil mills to learn about the secrets of the best Franciacorta DOCG and Olio del Garda DOP productions, which you will enjoy with some local cured meats and cheese pairings.

This visit is also the opportunity to enjoy a walk or bike ride in the quiet of the vineyards. To learn about some of the available activities, visit the section dedicated to experiences.

10. Bike trails

Biking on a trail perched over the waters in complete safety is easy and exciting! One of the favorite bike trails in Brescia is the Lake Garda cycle and pedestrian routein Limone sul Garda, the first part of the future cycle circuit around Lake Garda, and the Vello-Toline cycle and pedestrian route, an old Lake Iseo shoreline now upgraded to a cycle-pedestrian crossing with about 5 km of breathtaking course along a cliff.

Another trail immersed in nature is the Oglio river cycle route. If you are in the city, why not try the challenging ascent to Mount Maddalena? Awaiting you at the top is an incredible view of Brescia and the surrounding area, which will make the effort completely worthy!

To know all Brescia has to offer to bikers, click here!

11. The “Treno dei Sapori”

A trip aboard a fully restored, early 20^th-century train, where you can enjoy a traditional meal served as you travel from one medieval town to the next: this is the experience offered by the Treno dei Sapori running on the historic Brescia-Iseo-Edolo line.

The visit will lead you to the discovery of the attractions in Franciacorta, Lake Iseo, and Valle Camonica. There are several departures every month. For the complete schedule, visit the official website.

12. Sebino peat bog nature reserve

The Sebino peat bog nature reserve is an area of naturalistic relevance and a relaxing corner of the province just few steps from the town of Iseo. It’s a true paradise for birdwatchers, as protected species such as purple heron, western marsh harrier, and black kite inhabit this area.

13. Valle dei Segni: rock engravings

Let’s now travel to the heart of Valle Camonica, whose immense rock engraving heritage earned it the title as the first Italian UNESCO site and the designation “Valle dei Segni” (Valley of Signs).

Today, there are as many as eight parks in Valle Camonica inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list; 2019 coincided with the 40^th anniversary of the first recognition in 1979.

14. Castle of Manerba and its natural park

Another significant archaeological park is the Castle of Manerba, commonly known as “Rocca” and one of the best panoramic spots in the Lake Garda area. Located a few kilometers from Desenzano del Garda, here you will discover local history by exploring the medieval fortifications scattered around the hill and the artifacts displayed in the archaeological museum.

15. Tremosine plateau and Terrazza del Brivido

As you drive north along the western coast of Lake Garda, you reach the Tremosine plateau, one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy and a true Lake Garda gem. One of its most famous attractions is Terrazza del Brivido, a panoramic terrace with a majestic view of the whole lake.

Tremosine can be reached via the Strada della Forra, a thrilling access road that Winston Churchill called “the eighth wonder of the world”. The road was built in 1913 taking advantage of a canyon between the mountains and follows an incredibly scenic path full of bays, tunnels, gorges, and steep rocks for all international tourists to enjoy.

16. Toscolano Maderno and the Paper Museum

A must-have item in the list of the 30 things worth doing in the province of Brescia in springtime is a visit to the Paper Mill valley and the Paper Museum in Toscolano Maderno. This place suspended in time is a magnificent example of industrial archaeology. Among the things catching visitors’ eyes are the ruins of dozens of small buildings along the river, which were once paper manufacturing sites and are now abandoned.

The circuit includes a wonderful hike in nature and silence showcasing meadows, gorges, and the old hydroelectric plant in the Gatto hamlet. The trail is suitable for all ages. A recommended stop is the Paper Museum, a center of national relevance.

17. Hiking around Lake Vacca

Do you like hiking and nature? If so, put your rucksack on and head toward Lake Vacca and the Tita Secchi mountain hut! Once you get there, you will be enchanted by the stunning view, especially the Cornone del Blumone mountain reflected in the waters of the artificial lake.

This very popular destination is located between Valle Caffaro and Valle Camonica, at 2358 meters above sea level. The hike requires adequate mountain gear and a minimum of physical preparation.

Fun fact: the lake owes its name to the cow-shaped boulder visible from the trail (hence “Vacca” in Italian), that hikers consider the place’s “mascot”.

18. Exploring Bagolino

Bagolino is an evocative location at the foot of Mount Maniva and one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy. It is known for Bagòss, the typical local cheese produced according to an old traditional ritual. We recommend having lunch in one of the town’s osterias to taste the best bagòss-based dishes made according to local recipes. Afterwards, the impressive Church of San Giorgio with paintings by Titian and Tintoretto is surely worth a visit.

19. Fun at the Forge Park in Casto

Spring is the perfect season to have fun at the Forge Park in Casto.

Ranging from hiking or climbing activities to a walk along trails on different difficulty levels, you will spend a day enjoying nature. Children can also live exciting moments, thanks to the adventure trails and two Tibetan bridges. You can’t miss the trail in the forest that will lead you to the ruins of the old forges.

The park is equipped with food stands and equipment rental facilities.

20. Fort Anfo tour

An imposing fortification overlooking Lake Idro, Fort Anfo (commonly known as “Rocca”) can be visited from April to October. It’s an exciting journey through the history of this grandiose complex and its tunnels, walls, towers, barracks, and views.

A new fantastic way to visit the fortification is aboard an e-bike! Plan your visit now and… don’t forget your camera!

21. Mine hiking in Valle Trompia

Travel in time to discover one of the main historic economic activities of the valley: iron mining.

The tunnels in which thousands of men used to work can now be visited together with expert guides, who will lead you into the heart of the mountain! You can have fun playing with ropes and pulleys at the new adventure parks and visit museums with rich collections of old photos and artifacts.

Learn more: Marzoli Mine and Mine of St. Aloysius in Collio.

22. Experience Brescia … underground

The excitement continues in the city with Brescia Underground’s urban hiking. Visit the city’s underground infrastructure and admire rivers, canals, and streams that used to be important commercial roads.

23. Tour around Monte Isola

We finally reach one of the prides of the province of Brescia: Monte Isola, the largest lake island in Europe and one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy.

A traditional springtime excursion, Monte Isola has many options to choose from. You can enjoy an aperitif by the lake in the picturesque village of Peschiera Maraglio, hike to the top to visit the Madonna della Ceriola Shrine and admire a 360-degree view of Lake Iseo up to Franciacorta, visit the Fishing Net Museum inside the old net manufacturing workshop, or taste typical local products like olive oil, sun-dried sardines, and salami. Monte Isola is a true treasure trove for tourists!

Sports enthusiasts can rent a bike and ride around the island’s perimeter (about 9 km) amidst heavenly landscapes by the lake on traffic-free roads. Indeed, only scooters and bikes are allowed in Monte Isola.

24. Zone Rock Pyramids excursion

The Zone Rock Pyramids natural reserve showcases a rather unique erosion phenomenon. Over the centuries, this process has created these famous rock pyramids, some of which reach around 30 meters’ height, with large boulders at the top. The trail is easy and suitable for children.

25. Hiking and biking around Brescia and bergamo

From Ponte di Legno, the Oglio river crosses the provinces of Brescia, Bergamo, Cremona, and Mantua before flowing into the Po river in proximity to Torre d’Oglio. This river characterizes most of Brescia’s landscape. One of the most charming areas for a hike or a bike ride is the Oglio Nord Park, a natural area stretching from Lake Iseo up to Seniga-Gabbioneta.

For hiking enthusiasts, we highly recommend La Via delle Sorelle, a stage walk inaugurated in the year of Bergamo Brescia Italian Capital of Culture, and which has been an immediate success. As many as 36 municipalities are crossed, in addition to 2 UNESCO sites and several areas of great natural interest. The route can be approached in a bidirectional way, and it runs for the most part on the hills of the two areas: rucksack on your shoulders, and off you go!

26. Pure adrenaline rush with water sports

Every year, the three large lakes in Brescia attract water sports enthusiasts. There are several activities to choose from: kite surf, sailing, canoeing, scuba diving, fishing, and challenging canyoning trails in the water streams.

One of the most celebrated sports events is Centomiglia: the famous regatta is held every year in the waters of Gardone Riviera with the participation of over 200 sailboats.

27. Extreme sports on Lake Idro

Lake Idro is gaining traction among extreme sports lovers. We are not only talking about water sports: windsurfing, paragliding, and free climbing are some preferred activities in this still partially pristine land.

28. Golfing in the province of Brescia

From Franciacorta to Lake Garda, from the city to Valle Camonica and Ponte di Legno, there are several golf courses in the province of Brescia: find the one closest to you!

29. Cathedral of Montichiari and Bonoris Castle

Among noteworthy religious buildings in the province of Brescia, the Cathedral ofMontichiari stands out for its beauty and magnificence. It contains several art masterpieces, such as The Last Supper by Romanino, an old Antegnati organ, and a splendid 16^th-century wooden crucifix.

Bonoris Castle is another very important attraction in Montichiari. The original core was built around 1100 A.D. The castle was subsequently bought by Count Bonoris, who started the reconstruction in Gothic Revival style, giving the structure a unique medieval-meets-fairy tale architecture. This evocative style is still visible today thanks to the restoration project promoted by the Municipality.

30. A tour of the Castle of Padernello, the symbol of Brescia’s plain

Among the most-visited gems of Brescia’s plain and boasting a drawbridge still in working order, the Castle of Padernello tells a centuries-old story amid myths and fun facts. Join a guided tour: you might meet the ghost of the renowned White Lady!

Every third Sunday of the month, the castle hosts Mercati della Terra by Slow Food. It’s an opportunity to learn about and promote natural local produce and dishes. There is no better venue than this well preserved and maintained fortification, whose tours are made possible by a volunteer association.

Oh, and that’s not all: are you read to indulge in a tour among the castles of the province of Brescia?

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