Novara

Located between Milan and Turin, Novara is Piedmont’s second-largest city and a historic crossroads on the Ticino–Sesia plain. Its skyline is crowned by the dramatic dome of San Gaudenzio, designed by Alessandro Antonelli—the same architect behind Turin’s Mole Antonelliana 

Top Things to Do

• Basilica of San Gaudenzio & Dome: Novara’s signature landmark with a soaring 121 m cupola. Don’t miss climbing (or taking a guided tour) to the top for panoramic views and interior mosaics 

• Novara Cathedral (Santa Maria Assunta): Neo-classical interior by Antonelli, built 1860s, with ancient mosaics and a separate paleo-Christian baptistery housing frescoes 

• Broletto Complex / Visconti‑Sforza Castle: A medieval civic hub with museums and hallways, adjacent to the imposing Visconti‑Sforza fortress dating from the 13th century 

• Baptistery of Novara: Located next to the Cathedral, this ancient 4th–5th century building features original mosaics and stone tubs in a serene historic setting .

• Teatro Coccia: Elegant 19th-century opera house (opened 1888), hosting opera, ballet and concerts in richly decorated interiors; a cultural staple

• Museo di Storia Naturale “Faraggiana Ferrandi”: Natural history museum with over 450 taxidermy specimens—including rare species—and exhibits on biodiversity and regional environment 

• Parco dei Giardini & Parco Naturale Valle del Ticino: Novara’s leafy central park and nearby UNESCO-listed nature reserve along the Ticino River, ideal for cycling, picnics and fresh-air walks

• Historic centre & Piazza delle Erbe: Stroll atmospheric alleyways, local artisan shops, and the vibrant Piazza delle Erbe with cafés, markets, and gelato tasting spots 

 Eat & Drink

• Local specialities:

  • Paniscia (stewed risotto with beans, cabbage, sausage)—a hearty winter favorite 

  • Tapulone (meat cooked in red wine, often donkey or horse), rich and traditional 

  • Gorgonzola cheese (produced regionally) and biscotti di Novara, crispy and ideal with espresso

  • Fried frogs (rane fritte), a rustic local dish often encountered in countryside festivals 

Travel Tips

• Best time to visit: Spring to early autumn brings mild weather and city events; summer may feel hot, and winter is quiet but cozy and market-filled 

• Getting there & around: Reachable by frequent train or car from Milan (~50 km) or Turin. The compact center is walkable and best explored on foot or bicycle. BiciNovara rents at Piazza Martiri for ~€10/day 

• Overnight parking & markets: ZTL rules apply in central streets—street parking is limited; use public garages. Visit the Saturday market in Piazza delle Erbe to sample local cheese, meats, and crafts (cash often required)

Where to Stay & Recommendations

• Centro Storico: Ideal for charm and proximity to attractions like the Cathedral, Broletto, and shopping streets

• Sacro Cuore / San Martino neighborhoods: Picturesque and local, featuring quiet streets, traditional eateries, and access to parks and Basilica of San Gaudenzio .

• Torrion Quartara: A peaceful residential zone suitable for families, with greenery and cozy guesthouses, still within easy reach of the center