5 Days of Budget-Friendly Fun in Brescia, Italy

Experience Italy's hidden gem without breaking the bank in Brescia.

21 June 2023

Explore the city of Brescia, located in the northern region of Italy, without breaking the bank. Visit the stunning Brescia Cathedral and the beautiful Santa Giulia museum, which contains a vast collection of historic and artistic treasures. Try some delicious local cuisine such as Risotto alla Bresciana and enjoy a walk through the city's charming streets.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Exploring the Historic Center

  • Check into Hotel Vittoria a cozy and affordable option in the heart of Brescia's historic center.
  • Wander through the Piazza della Vittoria, admiring the impressive Victory Arch and neoclassical style buildings.
  • Visit the striking Duomo Nuovo, a unique blend of Renaissance and Baroque architecture.
  • Take a stroll down Via dei Musei, stopping at the ancient Roman Forum and the Santa Giulia museum, which houses over 11,000 years of Brescian history.
  • Enjoy traditional Lombard cuisine at Trattoria da Giulia, where the owner, Giulia, welcomes guests like family.
Day 2

Off the Beaten Path

  • Head to the outskirts of town to explore the beautiful Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
  • Take a guided tour of the underappreciated Pieve di San Pietro in Oliveto, a hidden gem with stunning frescoes and history dating back to the 8th century.
  • Hike up to the Rocca di Brescia for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
  • Go for a refreshing dip in the natural springs of Terme di Boario, just a short drive away.
  • Indulge in the delectable pasta dishes at Ristorante Al Gambero Rosso, known for their fresh seafood and homemade noodles.
Day 3

Art and Culture

  • Start the day with a cappuccino and brioche at Gelateria Pasticceria San Carlo, a historic pastry shop loved by locals.
  • Visit the Pinacoteca Tosio Martinengo, an impressive museum featuring works by Italian painters from the 13th to the 18th century.
  • Marvel at the intricate decorations and frescoes at the Church of San Francesco.
  • Take a stroll through the green oasis of Parco delle Colline, admiring the sculptures and views of the city below.
  • Dine like a local at Osteria al Bianchi, enjoying the hearty dishes and extensive wine list.
Day 4

Wine and Cheese

  • Explore the scenic Franciacorta wine region, just a short drive from Brescia.
  • Take a tour of a local winery, such as Bellavista or Ca' del Bosco, to learn about the production of their famous sparkling wines.
  • Savor the flavors of Franciacorta's renowned cheeses, such as Taleggio and Grana Padano, at a local cheese shop.
  • Enjoy a picnic or lunch at a vineyard, with beautiful views and delicious local food and wine.
  • End the day with a visit to the charming village of Iseo, situated on the shores of Lake Iseo, and enjoy a stroll along the lakeside promenade.
Day 5

Adventures in the Outdoors

  • Begin the day with a hike up Monte Maddalena for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and rolling hills.
  • Try your hand at rock climbing at the nearby indoor climbing gym, Falesia Caffi.
  • Go for a bike ride along the river Mella, taking in the picturesque countryside.
  • Explore the medieval castle of Padernello, with its impressive moat and well-preserved architecture.
  • End the day with a relaxing aperitivo and outdoor dining experience at Ristorante Cacciatore, with views of the countryside and delicious local fare.
  • This is just a sample itinerary, there are many other things to see and do in Brescia and the surrounding area, so feel free to mix and match the suggestions above or do your own thing!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Brescia by plane is to fly to Milan Bergamo Airport, which is approximately 50 km away from Brescia. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Brescia.

Car

Brescia is well-connected to Italy's main motorways. The A4 motorway connects Venice to Milan, and the A21 motorway connects Turin to Brescia. Visitors can also rent a car from the rental car service providers located in the Bergamo Airport

Train

Brescia has a high-speed train station called Brescia Station, which is well-connected to major cities in Italy. You can take a train from Milan or Venice to reach Brescia comfortably.

Boat

Brescia's Lake Garda does not have a ferry that transports people to Brescia directly. Although, visitors wishing to experience beautiful sceneries can take a ferry from the Lake Garda's terminal to the port of Desenzano, where they can then take a bus to Brescia

Bus

The best way to reach Brescia by bus is to take the Flixbus, which operates from major cities in Italy and Europe. The bus station in Brescia is located in the city centre, making it easy to access various tourist locations

More travel plans

Budget-Friendly Brescia: A Day Trip Guide

A trip to Brescia on a limited budget offers a unique opportunity to experience Italian culture at an affordable cost. With its historic architecture and scenic views, Brescia is a great destination for budget travelers looking for a taste of Italy. From exploring the city's many museums, churches, and parks to sampling local cuisine, a trip to Brescia can be both enjoyable and affordable.

Brescia on a Budget: The Ultimate 3-Day Guide

Travelers on a tight budget can experience the charm of Brescia by exploring the city's historic architecture, taking in the stunning views from the castle and enjoying local cuisine at affordable prices in the charming old town. Visiting the local markets and free attractions like the stunning Piazza della Loggia square and the magnificent San Pietro in Oliveto church will ensure a memorable trip without breaking the bank. For a truly authentic experience, visitors can stay in affordable hostels or apartments in the heart of the city, allowing easy access to all the sights and sounds.

Brescia on a Budget: A 4-Day Adventure

Brescia is a city in northern Italy that offers budget-friendly activities and accommodations. Visitors can explore the historical monuments, such as the Roman ruins and the castle, or take a stroll through the picturesque streets of the old town. Dining options are also affordable, with plenty of family-run trattorias offering traditional Italian cuisine.

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Brescia is a charming city in northern Italy, famous for its rich history and attractions. As a tourist, you can explore the ancient ruins, imposing castles, and beautiful cathedrals that dot the city. The local cuisine showcases the best of the Lombardy region and includes authentic Italian pasta dishes and fine wines to indulge in.