Free walking tours in Brescia and what to see

Must-sees

Brescia lies at the foot of the Pre-Alps, between Milan and Lake Garda, and holds a heritage many people pass by. UNESCO recognises two of its sites. The first is the archaeological park of Roman Brixia, with the Capitolium, a 1st-century temple to Jupiter, Juno and Minerva, and the Roman theatre beside it. The second is the Santa Giulia Museum, set in a monastery of Lombard origin, with pieces ranging from prehistory to the 18th century.

Piazza Paolo VI is home to the two cathedrals: the round Romanesque Duomo Vecchio and the baroque Duomo Nuovo with its great dome. Piazza della Loggia, with its Venetian air, and Piazza della Vittoria, with 20th-century architecture, round off the walk. For views, go up to the castle on Cidneo hill, a bastioned fortress overlooking the whole city.

Free tours and guided visits

Brescia has no regular free walking tours. What you will find are private guided tours of the centre, which help you make sense of the mix of Roman, Lombard and Venetian remains. Day trips to the mountains also leave from the city, such as the one to the Dolomites and Lake Braies, a long day given the distance.

How long to spend

A well-planned day lets you see the Capitolium, the two cathedrals, the squares and the castle. If you want to take your time in the Santa Giulia Museum, which is large, add another half day. With two or three days you can head out to the Franciacorta, a sparkling-wine area, or to Lake Iseo. Try casoncelli, the city's typical stuffed pasta.

Where to stay

To explore the city on foot, stay in the historic centre, between Piazza della Loggia and the Capitolium, where there are hotels and apartments. The station area has practical hotels if you arrive by train, and the metro drops you in the centre in a few minutes. If you are after peace and wine, the Franciacorta has agriturismi and farmhouses.