Lombardy is the undisputed financial and fashion engine of modern Italy. The region is entirely anchored by Milan, the global hub of design, fashion and business. The frenetic energy of the city gives way to the majestic beauty of the Alpine Great Lakes along the drive. The journey quickly takes you from the city’s contemporary architecture into spectacular landscapes. You can drive the beautiful roads around Lake Como or explore the shores of Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore. Northward, the high Rhaetian Alps provide challenging and rewarding driving over mountain passes. This is a region where the world’s best business is done within view of glaciers and snow capped peaks. The cuisine focuses on rich butter, rice (risotto) and veal. This is also the home of Franciacorta, Italy's premier sparkling wine region. This region is about quality, precision and high fashion style. A combination of global urban sophistication and Alpine beauty.

Lombardy highlights

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The Scenic Route

The Heritage Drive

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History of Lombardy

The name Lombardy is derived from the Longobards, a Germanic tribe who settled here after the fall of the Roman Empire. The region's strategic position, controlling both the Alpine passes to Northern Europe and the fertile Po River Valley, made it essential for any conquering power. The cities of Lombardy, led by Milan, grew into powerful independent communes. Their wealth, generated by trade and finance, fueled a cultural boom. Great dynasties like the Visconti and Sforza families turned Milan into a Renaissance capital. They commissioned masterworks and built magnificent castles . This power attracted the attention of greater European nations, leading to centuries of struggle for control of the region. Lombardy was largely governed by foreign powers, first by Spain and later by the Austrian Empire. When Italy was unified in the 1860s, Lombardy immediately became the nation's financial and industrial engine. To this present day, the region drives Italian excellence and connects the Alps to the rest of the world.

Lombardy

Lombardy highlights

Part of these road trips

History of Lombardy

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