Italy

Novara, Italy

Novara, Italy

Novara is a picturesque city located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. Situated on the banks of the Agogna River, Novara is known f…

Best for you if…

  • A 4–5 day trip
  • Exploring historic city center travelers
  • Visiting the Basilica of San Gaudenzio travelers
  • Visiting in June to August
Recommended stay
3-5 days
Best time
June to August
Walkability
Moderate
Guide depth
Deep guide
More about this guide

Novara, Italy is a strong pick for exploring historic city center & visiting the basilica of san gaudenzio — plan about 3-5 days. Peak season: June to August.

Deep guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 87/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)

Moderate density — A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops. (≈19.3 km span)

27 Places to explore
3-5 Recommended days
June to August Best season
8 Nearby places

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When to go

High season: June to August

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC

Best months for lower-cost travel: March · April · October

Weather

Autumn

10°C to 20°C

Spring

10°C to 20°C

Summer

20°C to 30°C

Winter

0°C to 10°C

How to get there

How to Reach Novara in Italy

Novara is a beautiful city located in the Piedmont region of Italy. If you are planning to visit Novara and wondering how to reach this charming destination, here are some options:

By Air:

The nearest major airport to Novara is Milan Malpensa Airport, which is approximately 35 kilometers away. From the airport, you can easily reach Novara by hiring a taxi or taking a train. There are also shuttle services available that operate between the airport and Novara.

By Train:

Novara is well-connected by train, making it a convenient option for travelers. There are regular train services from major Italian cities like Milan, Turin, and Genoa. The journey from Milan to Novara takes around 30 minutes, while from Turin it takes approximately 1 hour.

By Car:

If you prefer driving, Novara can be easily reached by car. The city is well-connected to the Italian highway network, with the A4 motorway passing nearby. From Milan, you can take the A4/E64 highway towards Turin and exit at Novara Est or Novara Ovest.

By Bus:

There are also bus services available that connect Novara to various cities in Italy. The main bus station in Novara is located near the city center, making it convenient for travelers. You can check the schedules and book tickets in advance for a hassle-free journey.

By Bicycle:

If you are an adventure enthusiast or prefer eco-friendly transportation, you can also reach Novara by bicycle. The city has a well-developed cycling infrastructure, and there are dedicated cycling paths that connect Novara to nearby towns and cities.

No matter which mode of transportation you choose, reaching Novara is relatively easy and convenient. Once you arrive, you can explore the city's rich history, beautiful architecture, and delicious cuisine.

Getting to know Novara, Italy

Novara is a picturesque city located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. Situated on the banks of the Agogna River, Novara is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and charming atmosphere. The city boasts a population of over 100,000 people, making it a bustling center of activity.

One of the main attractions in Novara is the magnificent Novara Cathedral, also known as the Basilica of San Gaudenzio. This iconic landmark dominates the city's skyline with its towering dome, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Novara and the surrounding countryside. The cathedral's intricate façade and beautiful interior make it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.

In addition to its architectural wonders, Novara is also famous for its delicious cuisine. The city is known for its traditional dishes, such as risotto alla novarese, a creamy rice dish cooked with red wine and flavored with bone marrow. Visitors can indulge in a variety of local delicacies at the numerous restaurants and trattorias scattered throughout the city.

Novara is also a city of culture and art. The Civic Museums of Novara house an impressive collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and archaeological artifacts. The museums offer visitors a glimpse into Novara's history and cultural heritage, providing an enriching experience for art enthusiasts.

Overall, Novara is a vibrant city that combines historical charm with modern amenities. Whether you're strolling through its ancient streets, exploring its artistic treasures, or savoring its delectable cuisine, Novara is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Pre-trip checklist

Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.

Local tips

  • Visit during the Palio di San Gaudenzio festival for a unique cultural experience
  • Try the local specialty, Torta di San Gaudenzio, a delicious cake
  • Take a day trip to nearby Lake Orta for stunning views and charming villages

Places worth exploring

27 places mapped for this destination

0–1
1–3
3–8
8–20
20+

Walking loops

Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.

Suggested 3-day outline

Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.

How many days do you need in Novara, Italy?

Most travelers spend about 3-5 days in Novara, Italy, Italy.

When is the best time to visit Novara, Italy?

High season is typically June to August.

Which months are more budget-friendly in Novara, Italy?

Travelers often find better value in March, April, October.

What kind of trip is Novara, Italy good for?

Novara, Italy suits Exploring historic city center, Visiting the Basilica of San Gaudenzio, Exploring the Broletto, the medieval town hall, Tasting local cuisine and wines.

Is Novara, Italy walkable?

A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops.

Any local tips for Novara, Italy?

Visit during the Palio di San Gaudenzio festival for a unique cultural experience

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