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There are great many things to do in Italy, and so are in Sondrio.
Nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps, Sondrio beckons with a myriad of experiences that are sure to enchant and captivate every visitor.
From taste-bud tingling gastronomy to awe-inspiring natural landscapes, Sondrio offers a cornucopia of delights that will leave everyone the richer for having visited.
So buckle up and get ready to discover an unforgettable journey through the hidden gems of Sondrio!
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Sondrio:
1. Palazzo Sassi di Sant’Agostino
A historic palace turned into an art museum located in the heart of Sondrio, Italy.
What to see or do: The museum features an impressive collection of contemporary art and rotating exhibitions of local and international artists. Visitors can explore several floors of the building, each with its own unique style and atmosphere.
The rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and town.
Don’t miss: The permanent collection on the first floor includes works by renowned Italian artists such as Lucio Fontana and Piero Manzoni. Check out the video room on the third floor for a unique multimedia art experience.
Insider travel tips: Plan to spend at least two hours at the museum to fully appreciate the collection. Don’t forget to grab a coffee or aperitivo at the museum cafe, which offers a relaxed ambiance and outdoor seating.
The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly. Parking can be difficult in the town center, so consider taking public transportation or hiring a taxi.
2. Chiesa di San Martino
Chiesa di San Martino is a beautiful church located in the heart of Sondrio, a town in the Lombardy region of Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the magnificent facade of the church, which dates back to the 16th century. With its elegant columns, statues and intricate details, it is a true masterpiece of Italian Renaissance architecture.
Inside, visitors can discover beautiful frescoes and paintings from famous artists such as Giulio Quaglio and Carlo Innocenzo Carlone.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to climb the bell tower of the church for stunning views over Sondrio and the surrounding mountains.
The climb is not too difficult, and the view is definitely worth it.
Insider travel tips: – Guided tours of the church are available, and they offer a deeper insight into the history and art of this beautiful building.
3. Torre Ligariana
Torre Ligariana is a historic tower in the town of Sondrio, located in the Lombardy region of Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb to the top of the tower to enjoy beautiful views of the town and surrounding landscape. The tower also houses a small museum with exhibits on the history of Sondrio and the tower itself.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the beautiful frescoes painted on the walls of the tower’s chapel, which date back to the Renaissance era.
Insider travel tips: – Try to visit the tower on a clear day to get the best views from the top.
4. Museo Valtellinese di Storia e Arte
A museum located in Sondrio, Italy showcasing the history and art of the Valtellina region.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits including artwork, sculptures, artifacts, and photographs that showcase the culture and history of the Valtellina region.
The museum features a mix of permanent and temporary exhibits, as well as educational programs and workshops.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the large collection of works by Pietro Ligari, a renowned artist from the region.
Visitors can also admire the stunning frescoes in the museum’s Chapel of San Rocco.
Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Mondays and admission is free on the first Sunday of every month. Audio guides are available for an additional fee and can be a helpful way to explore the exhibits more deeply.
Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the entire museum and make time to relax and take in the beautiful surroundings of Sondrio.
5. Castello Masegra
A medieval castle perched above the town of Sondrio in northern Italy.
What to see or do: Walk the rampart walls for stunning views of the valley. Explore the castle’s interior and learn about its history through the museum exhibits.
Attend one of the many cultural events that take place here throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The frescoed Chapel of the Holy Mother, which dates back to the 1500s. The intricate wood carvings and tapestry hangings in the castle’s various rooms.
Insider travel tips: Take advantage of the guided tour options to fully appreciate the castle’s rich history. Arrive early in the day to avoid the crowds and enjoy the castle at a more leisurely pace.
Don’t forget to stop by the castle’s gift shop to pick up some unique souvenirs.
6. Piazza Garibaldi
Piazza Garibaldi is the main square in the town of Sondrio, located in the Lombardy region of Italy.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the square and admire the beautiful historic architecture of the surrounding buildings, many of which date back to the Renaissance period.
Visit the nearby Cathedral of Sondrio, which features stunning frescoes and ornate decorations.
Don’t miss: Make sure to try some of the local cuisine at one of the many restaurants and cafes lining the square. In the summer months, catch an outdoor concert or festival on the square.
Insider travel tips: For the best views of the square, visit in the evening or at night when the buildings are beautifully lit up.
If you’re a history buff, consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the town’s past. Finally, make sure to bring comfortable shoes as the area around the square can be hilly and uneven.
7. Chiesa di San Lorenzo
A historic church located in the town of Sondrio in northern Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful Baroque architecture of the church, which was built in the 17th century. Take in the elaborate decorations and stunning artwork inside, including works by the famous painter Giovanni Battista Quadri.
Don’t miss: The impressive frescoed ceiling, depicting scenes from the life of San Lorenzo, as well as the ornate altar and intricately carved choir stalls.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to visit during Mass times to experience the beauty of the church in action.
Take some time to explore the charming town of Sondrio, which offers stunning views of the surrounding Alps and plenty of cozy cafes and shops to explore.
8. Parco delle Orobie Valtellinesi
Parco delle Orobie Valtellinesi is a natural park located in the province of Sondrio, Italy, covering over 80,000 hectares.
What to see or do: The park offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and skiing in the winter.
Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the Alps, waterfalls, and mountain lakes.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit Rifugio Zoia, a mountain hut that offers traditional Valtellina cuisine and exceptional views of the surrounding mountains.
Another must-see is the Lago di Val Viola, a beautiful lake set in the heart of the park.
Insider travel tips: Bring good hiking shoes and plenty of water, as the trails can be steep and challenging.
Visit in the fall to see the changing colors of the leaves, and don’t forget to sample the local wines and cheeses.
9. Chiesa di San Cristoforo
Chiesa di San Cristoforo is a beautiful 17th-century catholic church located in the heart of Sondrio, a town in the Lombardy region of Italy.
What to see or do: The church boasts impressive architecture and stunning frescoes that depict the life of San Cristoforo, the patron saint of the city.
Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history and religious significance of the church.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to admire the ornate altar, which is adorned with intricate decorations and religious icons. The majestic organ and the beautiful stained glass windows are also worth seeing.
Insider travel tips: – The church is open to visitors all year round, but it can be crowded during peak tourist season, so plan your visit accordingly.
10. Fiavè Stones
Fiavè Stones is an archaeological site located in the municipality of Fiavè, Sondrio.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ancient rock carvings that date back to the prehistoric times. The site contains over a thousand rocks with engravings of animals, symbols, humans and hunting scenes.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the site is the stone known as the “Queen of the Stones”, that features a hunting scene featuring 90 figures, making it the largest engraving in the entire Alps.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to visit the site during the summer months as the site may be inaccessible during winters. Visitors should also wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
Guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the history of the site.
11. Abbazia di San Pietro in Monte
A medieval Benedictine abbey located in the mountains of Lombardy, Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning Romanesque architecture of the church, walk through the cloisters and serene gardens, and explore the museum with its collections of art and artifacts.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and mountains from the abbey’s hilltop location.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there are many steps to climb. The abbey can only be reached by car or on foot, so plan your transportation accordingly.
Visit in the spring or fall to avoid the crowds and enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons.
12. Giardino Botanico Alpino “Rezia”
Giardino Botanico Alpino “Rezia” is a botanical garden located in Sondrio, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors to Giardino Botanico Alpino “Rezia” can explore the garden and see over 1000 species of plants from the Alps, including rare and endangered species.
The garden is divided into different sections, including a rock garden, an alpine meadow, and a wetland area.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning views of the surrounding mountains from the garden.
The garden also has a small museum where visitors can learn about the unique alpine plants that grow in the region.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Giardino Botanico Alpino “Rezia” is in spring or summer when the plants are in bloom. Wear comfortable shoes as the paths can be steep in some areas.
Also, make sure to bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
13. Chiesa dei Santi Gervasio e Protasio
Chiesa dei Santi Gervasio e Protasio is a Romanesque-style church located in Sondrio, a town in the Lombardy region of northern Italy.
What to see or do: The church boasts impressive architectural features such as its stone portal, bell tower, and frescoes. Visitors can explore the interior of the church and appreciate its historic and artistic significance.
Don’t miss: The frescoes inside the church are a must-see, particularly the depiction of the Last Judgment on the church’s apse.
Insider travel tips: If you are interested in history and art, consider hiring a local guide to enhance your visit and learn more about the significance of this church.
Additionally, the church often hosts concerts and cultural events, so be sure to check the schedule during your visit.
14. Forte Montecchio Nord
Forte Montecchio Nord is a military fortification located in Colico, Sondrio, Italy.
What to see or do: Explore the labyrinth of tunnels and passages that make up this fortress, which played a key role in the First World War.
Look out for the many artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the fort’s history and the soldiers who fought and died here.
Don’t miss: The stunning views from the top of the fort, which offer panoramic vistas across the surrounding terrain, including the beautiful Lake Como.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing, as the fort can be chilly even on a warm day. You can easily spend a few hours exploring the fort, so plan accordingly.
Don’t forget your camera to capture the amazing views from the top of the fortress.
15. Pizzo Bernina
Mountain peak in the Bernina Range of the Alps, located in the Lombardy region of Italy.
What to see or do: Enjoy sweeping views of the snow-capped mountains and nearby glaciers, hike the scenic trails, and take in the natural beauty of the area.
Don’t miss: The famous Bernina Express train ride, which offers breathtaking views as it winds through the mountains and crosses over the Bernina Pass.
Also, visit the charming historic town of Tirano, located at the foot of the mountain.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to pack warm clothing, as temperatures can drop quickly in the high altitude. Additionally, consider visiting in the off-season to avoid crowds and get the best deals on accommodation.
Finally, be sure to try the local specialty dish of Pizzoccheri, a hearty pasta dish made with buckwheat flour.