Peglio(Italy) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Pavia, top boutique stays include Hotel Santa Maria, a charming Renaissance-style hotel nestled in the historic city center. Its elegant rooms blend period details with modern comfort, and the rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of the Duomo di Pavia and surrounding Alps. Another standout is B&B La Loggetta, housed in a restored 18th-century villa, featuring handcrafted furnishings and local art. Both offer personalized service and are steps from key landmarks like the Palazzo Arcivescovile and Piazza della Vittoria—perfect for travelers seeking authentic Italian charm and cultural immersion.

The historic center of Pavia is ideal for first-time visitors. This compact district puts you within walking distance of major sights: the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, Piazza della Vittoria, and the University of Pavia. The cobbled streets, family-run trattorias, and quiet alleys create an immersive atmosphere. Most boutique hotels and B&Bs here offer warm hospitality and insider tips. Avoid staying near the train station, which can be noisy and less tourist-friendly. Staying central ensures easy access to culture, dining, and daily life in this hidden gem of Lombardy.

Pavia boasts rich heritage in textile arts—visit Casa del Tessitore, a traditional weaving workshop where guests can try their hand at creating a small linen piece using century-old looms. The annual Pavia International Arts Festival transforms the city into an open-air gallery, with live performances, installations, and street theater. Additionally, explore the Sacro Speco sanctuary, a medieval hermitage with frescoes depicting religious history. These experiences connect travelers deeply with Lombard craftsmanship, spirituality, and urban creativity.

Must-try foods in Pavia include Pizzoccheri, a hearty buckwheat pasta dish layered with potatoes, cabbage, and aged Bitto cheese, originating from Alpine farming traditions. Don’t miss Risotto alla Milanese, famous for its golden hue from saffron. Dine at Osteria del Teatro, a centuries-old restaurant inside a former theater, where seasonal menus highlight regional ingredients. Pair your meal with a glass of local Lombardia DOC white wine—crisp and aromatic, perfect for balancing rich flavors.

Capture stunning shots at the Duomo di Pavia, whose Gothic façade and intricate stonework are especially striking at golden hour. The Piazza della Vittoria fountain framed by the clock tower offers a classic Italian square composition. For panoramic views, climb the bell tower of San Martino Monastery. The ancient Arco dell’Appia archway along Via Appia is another dramatic backdrop. Early morning light enhances the texture of old stone walls, making every corner a potential masterpiece.

Yes, Pavia is highly walkable and well-connected by public transit. The city has frequent buses linking the train station, center, and nearby towns. From Milan Central Station, take a high-speed train (about 30 minutes) to Pavia Railway Station, then walk or ride a bike to the heart of town. Renting a bicycle is ideal for exploring the Castello Park and surrounding countryside. For day trips to the Alps, regional buses run to Bergamo and Tirano, offering access to mountain trails and scenic rail routes.

Absolutely. Pavia is a family-friendly destination with child-friendly attractions like the Museo Civico di Pavia, which features interactive exhibits on natural history and local archaeology. The Giardini del Castello park offers open green spaces, playgrounds, and a small animal enclosure—ideal for kids. Many hotels provide cribs and baby beds, and restaurants such as Osteria del Teatro offer kid-sized portions. Summer sees outdoor theater performances based on fairy tales, making it a joyful experience for all ages.

Pavia has a temperate continental climate. Spring (April–June) brings mild temperatures and blooming gardens—perfect for sightseeing. Summer (July–August) can be hot and humid, with occasional thunderstorms; early mornings are best for exploring. Autumn (September–November) is crisp and colorful, ideal for photography. Winter (December–March) is cold with fog, but festive markets and cozy cafes shine. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes—especially during fall and winter visits.

For couples, enjoy a twilight guided tour of Piazza della Vittoria, illuminated by soft candlelight, sharing stories of love and legend. Dine on the rooftop terrace of Hotel Santa Maria, overlooking the Duomo under starlight. Visit the secluded Sacro Speco chapel, where private vows or moments of reflection can be shared. For something unforgettable, book a secret garden tour through hidden courtyards and antique fountains—discovering Pavia’s most intimate and poetic corners together.

Visit the weekly artisan market in the historic center, where local craftspeople sell handmade ceramics, embroidered textiles, and wooden sculptures. Le Cose di Zanetti on Piazza della Vittoria specializes in custom leather goods and vintage accessories. Try Pasticceria Della Porta for Pavese Biscotti, delicate almond cookies wrapped in decorative paper—excellent gifts. Also look for limited-edition bottles of Lombardia DOC wine, produced by family-run vineyards in the region.