Milan and the big lakes tend to steal the spotlight. But Lombardy has far more up its sleeve. Beyond the headline names, there’s a patchwork of villages with castles rising straight out of the water, footpaths clinging to cliffs between mountains and lakes, grand villas with vast gardens, and old-school spa towns where slowing down feels natural.
Explore lesser-known yet unmissable villages in Lombardy that deserve a spot on your holiday wish list.
Sirmione: a fortress on the water, thermal baths, and an ancient Roman villa
Set on a narrow peninsula stretching into Lake Garda, Sirmione makes an impression straight away. The historic centre draws you in with tight lanes and small shops, while the outline of the Rocca Scaligera dominates the little harbour, giving the whole place a slightly theatrical feel.
A short walk further leads to the Grottoes of Catullus, the remains of a vast Roman villa that stood here two thousand years ago. It’s a reminder that this top lakeside setting has long been considered prime real estate.
Bellagio: panoramic elegance on the "Pearl" of Lake Como
One of the lake's most beautiful towns, Bellagio, sits exactly where the three branches of Lake Como meet, and that position shapes everything. The views shift as you move along the promenade, with water and mountains rearranging themselves at every turn.
Stone stairways climb through the centre, lined with artisan shops and cafés. The mood feels polished but not stiff. Around the village, historic villas are surrounded by gardens planned to impress in every season, adding to Bellagio’s long-standing reputation.
Varenna: an unhurried corner on Lake Como
On the eastern side of Lake Como, Varenna feels slightly more tucked away. Pastel-coloured houses line the water, and even during busy periods, there’s a slower rhythm compared to other lakeside stops.
The Lovers’ Walk, suspended just above the lake, links different parts of the village and opens up new angles at every step. At the heart of it all is Villa Monastero, whose botanical garden stretches for two kilometres along the shore.
Gromo: Alpine Middle Ages in Val Seriana
High in the Bergamo Orobie mountains, Gromo keeps its medieval core compact and remarkably intact. The focal point is Piazza Dante, watched over by Ginami Castle, whose sharp profile hints at centuries of local history.
Close by, the loggia of Palazzo Milesi adds a noble touch. It now houses the town hall, yet still retains its original character. Beyond the centre, woodland trails and mountain views define the surroundings, suiting anyone drawn to quiet paths and clear alpine air.
San Pellegrino Terme: Belle Époque architecture and spa culture
Up in the Brembana Valley, San Pellegrino Terme combines mountain scenery with a serious spa heritage. The town’s Art Nouveau buildings still speak of its Belle Époque heyday, particularly the Grand Hotel and the Municipal Casino.
Today, the focus is still on well-being. At QC Terme, days revolve around thermal pools, whirlpools and steam rooms, with the architecture carefully integrated into the surrounding landscape.
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