An Epic 4-Day Adventure in Novara, Italy

Experience the beauty of Italy's hidden gem without breaking the bank in Novara.

21 June 2023

Novara, Italy is a charming and historic city located in the Piedmont region, known for its rich cultural heritage, delicious food and wine, and beautiful scenery. For budget-conscious travelers, there are plenty of affordable accommodation options, as well as many free and low-cost attractions, such as the beautiful Cathedral of Novara and the stunning Palace of the Piemontese Storico Museum. Visitors can also explore the city's picturesque streets and piazzas, sample local delicacies at the many street markets and food festivals, and take day trips to nearby attractions, such as the stunning Lake Maggiore and the charming town of Orta San Giulio.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Explore the heart of Novara

  • Start the day with an Italian coffee at Caffè Garibaldi
  • Visit the magnificent Basilica di San Gaudenzio for beautiful views of the city
  • Take a stroll around the historic center, filled with charming boutiques and colorful buildings.
  • Enjoy a delicious pizza from Pizzeria Lea
  • End the day with a gelato from Gelateria Giansi the pistachio flavor is a must-try!
  • Hotel recommendation: Hotel La Bussola offering affordable rooms in a central location.
Day 2

Discover Novara's culinary scene

  • Start the day with breakfast at Pasticceria Rosso
  • Visit the food market, Mercato Coperto, and sample some of the local specialties like truffles and cheese.
  • Have lunch at Osteria dell'Angolo a hidden gem of traditional Piedmontese cuisine.
  • Take a cooking class at Bottega del Gusto and learn to make fresh pasta.
  • End the day with a relaxing aperitivo at Lucia39 Lounge Bar.
Day 3

Day trip to Lake Orta

  • Take a train to the charming town of Orta San Giulio, located on the shores of Lake Orta.
  • Walk around the town and admire the picturesque houses and stunning architecture.
  • Take a boat tour of the lake and visit Isola San Giulio, home to a historic basilica and monastery.
  • Have lunch at Ristorante Venus and enjoy the beautiful views of the lake.
  • Try some local wine at Cantina del Gallo Nero before returning to Novara.
Day 4

Visit the Castello Sforzesco

  • Explore the Castello Sforzesco, a fortress and former residence of the Visconti and Sforza families.
  • Visit the Museo Civico inside the castle and learn about the history of Novara.
  • Have lunch at Trattoria dei Bracconieri a cozy restaurant serving delicious regional dishes.
  • Visit the Parco dei Bambini, a beautiful park with plenty of activities for children.
  • End the day with an evening walk around the city, catching the sunset from the top of the castle walls.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Novara, Italy by plane is to land at Milan Malpensa Airport and from there take a train or a bus to Novara. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes by train and 50 minutes by bus.

Car

If you are traveling by car, the best way to get to Novara is to take the A4 motorway from Milan towards Turin and then take the Novara Est exit. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes.

Train

If you are traveling by train, the best way to get to Novara is to take a direct train from Milan Central Station. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes.

Boat

There are no direct boat services to Novara, Italy as it is a landlocked city. The nearest port is Genoa which is approximately 140 km away.

Bus

If you are traveling by bus, the best way to get to Novara is to take a bus from Milan Malpensa Airport. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes.

Destination

Novara

Tucked away in the Italian countryside is a charming little town that's often overlooked by tourists. But Novara isn't just a pretty face - it's got a lot going on under that picturesque facade.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Novara: A Family Adventure of Fun and Flavor!

Novara, located in northern Italy, offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. Enjoy picturesque landscapes and explore historical sites such as the Novara Cathedral, or spend a delightful day at the Parco dei Bambini, a large park perfect for children, featuring playgrounds, animals, and green spaces. Indulge in local cuisine at family-friendly restaurants and experience the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Novara.

Romantic Weekend Escape: Novara, Italy

Novara is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway, with its charming historical center and scenic countryside. Take a stroll through Piazza Martiri della Libertà and visit the impressive Duomo di Novara. Indulge in delicious local cuisine and explore the surrounding vineyards and castles for a truly romantic experience.

A Whirlwind Weekend of Family Fun in Novara

Novara, Italy, offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its perfect blend of history, nature, and cultural experiences. Explore its charming city center adorned with architectural gems like the awe-inspiring Basilica di San Gaudenzio and indulge in some gelato at Piazza Martiri della Libertà. Treat your little ones to a day of fun at the Safari Park, where they can marvel at various animal species, or go back in time at the Novara War Museum, where history comes alive.

3 Days of Romance and Culture in Novara, Italy

Novara, Italy offers the perfect romantic getaway with its charming atmosphere and beautiful landscapes. Indulge in a stroll at the Piazza delle Erbe, relishing the beautiful architecture of the Cathedral of Novara, and enjoying the exquisite Italian cuisine that the city offers. Take a trip to the nearby Lake Maggiore for a romantic boat ride and an unforgettable view.