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There are an array of things to do in Italy, with Ivrea sharing quite a few of those!
Step into a world where history and charm collide, where picturesque scenery meets lively city vibes.
Welcome to Ivrea, where the options are endless and each moment is a new adventure waiting to be embraced.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Ivrea:
1. Castle of Ivrea
Castle of Ivrea is a medieval castle located in the Piedmont region of Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s historic halls, secret passages, and towers while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding city and countryside.
Don’t miss: The castle’s main feature is the imposing 30-meter-high Mastio, which offers a breathtaking view of the city. Don’t miss the castle’s dungeons and underground passages, which are excellent examples of medieval architecture.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to attend one of the many events held at the castle throughout the year, including medieval reenactments and concerts.
The castle is also a popular destination during the Ivrea Carnival, a unique event that involves throwing oranges at one another.
To avoid crowds, arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon, and try to visit on a weekday rather than a weekend.
2. Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
Iconic Romanesque cathedral with a bell tower in Ivrea, Northern Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the ornate façade that blends Romanesque and Gothic styles. Explore the interior adorned with beautiful frescoes, paintings, and sculptures.
Visit the crypt of St. Savino, the patron saint of Ivrea, where you’ll find ancient Roman and medieval remains.
Don’t miss: The 11th-century Bell Tower, which offers spectacular views over Ivrea and its surroundings.
Insider travel tips: – A visit to the Cathedral is free, but donations are welcome.
3. Museo Civico Archeologico di Ivrea
The Museo Civico Archeologico di Ivrea is a museum dedicated to the history and archaeology of the Ivrea area in northern Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors to the museum can explore exhibitions showcasing archaeological collections from prehistoric times to the Roman era. The museum also features a section dedicated to the Lombards, who ruled in the Ivrea area during the Middle Ages.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the Sala delle Maschere, or Room of Masks, which houses a collection of ancient masks that were used in funerary rites and other ceremonies in the area.
Another must-see is the reconstructed fountain and garden from the Roman era.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays.
4. Carnival of Ivrea
The Carnival of Ivrea is one of the oldest and most traditional carnivals in Italy.
It is a historical reenactment of an ancient rebellion against a tyrant, and it involves a unique and exciting orange battle.
What to see or do: Visitors can witness a lively and colorful parade of thousands of people in historical costumes, including soldiers, nobles, and peasants.
They can also enjoy the orange battle where people throw oranges at each other, representing the revolt against the tyrant’s troops.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the Carnival is the Battle of the Oranges, a spectacular and unique event where the people divide into teams on foot and fight with oranges.
Insider travel tips: To participate in the Battle of the Oranges, visitors need to wear protective gears as the oranges can be quite hard.
Also, it is important to book accommodation in advance as the carnival attracts a large number of visitors every year.
5. Palazzo Dalla Marmora
Palazzo Dalla Marmora is a historic building located in Ivrea, Piedmont, Italy. It was built in the 18th century and belonged to the noble Dalla Marmora family.
What to see or do: Today, the palace serves as a museum and has several exhibitions showcasing medieval and Renaissance art and artifacts, antique weapons, and local history.
Don’t miss: The beautiful architecture and interior decorations, including frescoes, stuccos, and a grand staircase.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit is during the annual Carnival of Ivrea, held in February, when the city is alive with historical reenactments and events.
The palace is closed on Mondays.
6. Church of San Bernardino
A beautiful and historic church dating back to the 15th century, located in the heart of Ivrea, Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the impressive frescoes and artwork that decorate the interior of the church, including the stunning ceiling painting of the Last Judgment.
Take a moment to appreciate the grand architecture of the building, including its impressive bell tower.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the beautiful cloister that is located just next to the church.
It features picturesque arcades and a peaceful garden, making it the perfect place to relax and take in the tranquility of the surroundings.
Insider travel tips: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and to fully appreciate the serene and peaceful atmosphere of the church and its surroundings.
If possible, try to attend a mass or religious ceremony to witness the church come to life with local worshippers.
7. Parco della Rimembranza
Parco della Rimembranza is a public park located on the hills overlooking Ivrea, a town in northern Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk through the greenery of the park while taking in stunning panoramic views of the town below.
The park is also home to several monuments and statues, including a war memorial and a bronze statue of the famous mathematician, Leonardo Fibonacci.
Don’t miss: Make sure to stop at the Belvedere terrace, which offers breathtaking views over the lake and surrounding mountains.
Insider travel tips: The park can be reached by car or by taking a funicular from the town center. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or an afternoon stroll.
The park is free to enter and open year-round.
8. Piazza Ottinetti
A charming square located in the heart of Ivrea, a town in the Piedmont region of Italy.
What to see or do: Enjoy the picturesque old buildings that surround the square, including the elegant town hall and the Church of San Bernardino. Take a stroll around the square and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere, which is especially lively on market days.
Don’t miss: The beautiful fountain in the center of the square, which is adorned with a sculpture of a winged lion. It’s a great spot to sit and people-watch while admiring the fountain.
Insider travel tips: Visit Piazza Ottinetti during the Ivrea Carnival in February, when the square comes alive with colorful parades, music, and dancing.
If you’re a fan of Italian food, don’t miss the traditional “bagna cauda” dish, which is typically served during the carnival celebrations.
9. Museo Borgogna
A small private museum in Ivrea, Italy, dedicated to the works of artist Carlo Borgogna.
What to see or do: Admire over a hundred paintings, tapestries, and other artworks on display, tracing the artist’s career from his early years to his later works.
Don’t miss: Borgogna’s impressive masterpiece, the painted canvas La Vittoria di Ivrea (“The Victory of Ivrea”), depicting a battle between the Carthaginian army and the Roman empire.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit during the museum’s opening hours, which can be limited. Take the time to appreciate the intricate details of Borgogna’s paintings and tapestries.
Then, take a stroll around Ivrea, a charming town known for its unique architecture and historical landmarks.
10. Riserva Naturale Speciale delle Torbiere di Ivrea
A nature reserve located near Ivrea city in Italy, which covers an area of 1000 hectares.
What to see or do: The reserve boasts diverse flora and fauna that visitors can explore through several hiking trails and guided tours. Rare bird species like great bittern and squacco heron can be spotted here among other water birds.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking views of the five lakes within the reserve- Lake Pistono, Lake Nero, Lake Ghiaccio, Lake Campagna, and Lake San Michele.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to visit the nature reserve in spring when it’s green and lush or during autumn when the foliage turns into stunning orange and red hues.
Also, make sure to carry binoculars for better bird-watching experience.
11. Chiesa di San Gaudenzio
Chiesa di San Gaudenzio, also known as the Church of St. Gaudenzio, is a stunning church located in Ivrea, a town in the Piedmont region of Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors should take their time exploring the beautiful interior of the church, which includes stunning frescoes, intricate furnishings, and unique artwork.
Don’t miss: One of the main highlights of the church is the 75-meter high bell tower, which offers incredible views of the town and surrounding countryside.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the church in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
12. Museo del Carnevale e della Maschera di Ivrea
The Museo del Carnevale e della Maschera di Ivrea, located in the town of Ivrea in Italy, is a museum dedicated to the historic carnival of Ivrea and its famous “Battle of Oranges”.
What to see or do: The museum showcases the history and traditions of the carnival, with exhibits featuring elaborate masks and costumes worn during the celebration.
Visitors can also learn about the origin and significance of the Battle of Oranges, a reenactment of a medieval uprising that involves thousands of people throwing oranges at each other.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the chance to try on traditional carnival costumes and masks and take photos.
The museum also houses a collection of vintage carnival floats and posters, as well as interactive displays and audio-visual exhibits.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit the museum is during the annual Ivrea Carnival in February, when the town comes alive with parades and festivities.
13. Ponte Vecchio
A historical bridge located in Ivrea, Italy.
What to see or do: Take a walk on the bridge and enjoy the stunning view of the surrounding waterfalls and landscape.
Don’t miss: Visiting the nearby medieval castle, Castello di Ivrea, and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the Ivrea Carnival in February for an unforgettable experience.
14. Chiesa di San Lorenzo
Chiesa di San Lorenzo is a Romanesque-style church located in the historic center of Ivrea, a picturesque town in the Piedmont region of Italy.
What to see or do: The church is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture, with a simple facade and impressive rose window. Inside, there are beautiful frescoes dating back to the 14th century, as well as several impressive statues and altarpieces.
Don’t miss: Be sure to admire the beautiful frescoes on the walls and ceiling of the church, which depict scenes from the life of Christ and other religious figures.
Also, don’t miss the statue of San Lorenzo, the patron saint of Ivrea, located in the apse of the church.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the church on a weekday to avoid crowds and have a more peaceful experience.
15. Duomo di San Giovanni Battista
A beautiful cathedral located in Ivrea, a town in the Piedmont region of Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning architecture of the cathedral, which dates back to the 4th century. Inside, you will find a number of important artworks, including a 16th-century painting of San Giovanni Battista.
Don’t miss: Be sure to spend some time outside of the cathedral, as well, as the exterior is equally impressive. The bell tower is particularly noteworthy.
Insider travel tips: Check the schedule for masses and other events before you go, so you can plan your visit accordingly.
If you can, try to visit during the annual Battle of the Oranges festival, when the streets around the cathedral come alive with music, parades, and a massive orange fight.