Brescia Holidays

Say ciao to Brescia – a gorgeous northern Italian stunner that’s been flying under the radar for way too long. With its Roman ruins, rolling vineyards and Aperol-spritz-on-every-corner vibes, this place is like the quieter, cooler cousin of Milan.

Highlights

• 🏛️ Roman ruins in the middle of the city – Think temples, amphitheatres and ancient columns casually dotted between gelato shops.

• 🏰 A mighty hilltop castle – The Castello di Brescia offers views, museums and serious medieval drama.

• 🍷 Franciacorta wine country – Italy’s answer to Champagne is just around the corner, and yes, there are tastings.

• 🎭 Less touristy, more authentic – Expect Italian spoken at full volume, locals sipping espressos, and food that slaps.

Getting around

Getting around in Brescia is a breeze. The city is wonderfully walkable – everything's within easy reach from the buzzing piazzas to the ancient Roman Forum. Feeling lazy? There’s a slick metro system (yep, Italy’s smallest – and arguably cutest – underground) and a reliable fleet of buses. Trains link you to big hitters like Milan, Verona, and Lake Garda in under an hour, so day-tripping is totally on the cards. Oh, and cycling is big here – rent a bike and ride like a local.

Things to do for families in Brescia

Got the little ones in tow? Brescia delivers big time. Kick things off with a climb (or cable car ride) up to Brescia Castle, where kids can roam the ramparts, explore tanks and old-school weapons at the Museum of Arms, or just roll down grassy hills. Next up, dive into history at Museo di Santa Giulia, where interactive exhibits bring the past to life (yes, even for screen-addicted teens). Need fresh air? Head to Parco Tarello – all swings, slides and shady spots for snack breaks. Bonus: gelato shops are everywhere, and frankly, that’s all you need to keep morale high.

Things to do for couples in Brescia

Brescia city breaks turn up the romance without trying too hard. Imagine strolling hand-in-hand through cobbled lanes, peeking into Renaissance churches and sipping wine on a sun-drenched piazza. The Piazza della Loggia is the beating heart of the city – and the ideal spot for people-watching over a spritz. Feeling fancy? Book a Franciacorta wine tasting in the countryside, just 15 minutes away. For that “just us two” moment, climb the clock tower at Piazza Paolo VI for panoramic views over tiled rooftops and spires. When the sun dips, enjoy dinner under fairy lights at a tucked-away trattoria, complete with pasta, passion, and maybe a bit of Pavarotti in the background.

Things to do for groups in Brescia

On a group holiday and don’t fancy the usual hotspots? Brescia’s a winner. Round up your crew for a wander through the Roman archaeological park (because let’s face it, ruins are better when you can chat about gladiators and gossip at the same time). Then it's up to Castello di Brescia for a castle crawl with panoramic views and maybe a cheeky bottle of vino. The nightlife’s low-key but lovely – think local wine bars, buzzing pizzerias and the odd dance spot if the mood strikes. Or hop on a train to Lake Iseo for a day of watersports, boat trips and lakeside lounging. Group selfies = sorted.

Things to do for foodies in Brescia

Brescia is a dream for foodies. Start your day with an espresso and a fresh brioche, then move on to a lunch of casoncelli alla bresciana – little pasta parcels stuffed with meat, cheese and love. The city is obsessed with spiedo bresciano, a slow-roasted meat dish that’s pure indulgence (and best washed down with a local red). Don’t sleep on the Franciacorta sparkling wine, born just outside the city and poured generously across its restaurants and enotecas. Want the real deal? Book a vineyard tour and tasting – some estates even throw in a posh lunch. And for dessert? Try Bossolà, a soft lemony cake that might just ruin all other puddings for you.