Discover Milan and Surrounding Areas: A 5-Day Itinerary to Savor Italy’s DOP Food Treasures
Planning a trip to Milan and want to explore the region's culinary delights? This 5-day itinerary takes you on a gastronomic journey through Milan and its surrounding areas, highlighting Italy’s DOP (Denominazione d'Origine Protetta) food treasures. From rich cheeses to fine wines and exquisite meats, experience the best of Lombardy’s culinary heritage.
Day 1: Milan - Gorgonzola and Aperitivo
Morning:
Explore Milan: Begin your trip with a guided tour of Milan’s historic center. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and La Scala Opera House.
Afternoon:
Gorgonzola Tasting: Head to a local deli to taste Gorgonzola DOP, one of Italy’s most famous blue cheeses. Learn about the production process and the different varieties, from creamy Dolce to pungent Piccante.
Evening:
Aperitivo Experience: Enjoy the quintessential Milanese aperitivo at a trendy bar in the Navigli district. Savor a selection of small bites paired with a refreshing Spritz or a glass of local wine.
Day 2: Pavia - Salame di Varzi and Bonarda Wine
Morning:
Salame di Varzi Tour: Travel to Pavia and visit a producer of Salame di Varzi DOP. Discover how this flavorful salami is made using traditional methods and taste different varieties.
Afternoon:
Lunch in Pavia: Enjoy a rustic lunch at a local trattoria, featuring dishes made with Salame di Varzi and other regional specialties.
Evening:
Bonarda Wine Tasting: Visit a nearby vineyard to sample Bonarda dell’Oltrepò Pavese DOC, a fruity red wine. Learn about the winemaking process and enjoy a tasting session in the scenic countryside. Return to Pavia for dinner, indulging in more local dishes paired with Bonarda wine.
Day 3: Bergamo - Taleggio and Polenta Taragna
Morning:
Taleggio Cheese Factory: Head to the Bergamo area and visit a cheese factory producing Taleggio DOP. Learn about the history and production of this semi-soft cheese and enjoy a guided tasting.
Afternoon:
Lunch with Polenta Taragna: Savor a traditional Bergamasco lunch at a mountain chalet, featuring Polenta Taragna (polenta made with buckwheat flour and cheese) and dishes made with Taleggio cheese.
Evening:
Explore Bergamo: Explore the charming medieval town of Bergamo Alta. Stroll through its narrow streets, visit the Piazza Vecchia, and admire the stunning views from the Venetian walls. For dinner, enjoy regional dishes at a local osteria.
Day 4: Franciacorta - Sparkling Wine and Lake Iseo
Morning:
Franciacorta Winery Tour: Travel to the Franciacorta region, renowned for its sparkling wine. Visit a prestigious winery to learn about the production of Franciacorta DOCG and enjoy a tasting of various vintages.
Afternoon:
Lunch at the Winery: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the winery, featuring dishes that complement the sparkling wines. Try local specialties such as lake fish and risotto.
Evening:
Lake Iseo Exploration: Spend the afternoon exploring the serene Lake Iseo. Take a boat trip to Monte Isola, the largest lake island in Italy. For dinner, enjoy lakeside dining with a view, sampling fresh fish and regional wines.
Day 5: Mantua - Grana Padano and Mostarda
Morning:
Grana Padano Dairy Visit: Head to Mantua to visit a dairy producing Grana Padano DOP. Learn about the traditional cheese-making process and enjoy a guided tasting of this hard, crumbly cheese.
Afternoon:
Mostarda Tasting: Visit a local producer of Mostarda di Cremona, a sweet and spicy fruit preserve often paired with cheese and meats. Taste different varieties and learn about its history.
Evening:
Explore Mantua: Explore the beautiful city of Mantua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Palazzo Ducale and the Palazzo Te. For dinner, indulge in a meal at a local restaurant, featuring dishes made with Grana Padano and Mostarda.
Final Thoughts
This 5-day itinerary through Milan and the surrounding areas offers an immersive journey into the region's DOP food treasures. By exploring these off-the-beaten-path destinations, you’ll experience authentic flavors, support local producers, and gain a deeper appreciation for Lombardy’s rich culinary heritage. This summer, let your taste buds guide you through an unforgettable adventure in one of Italy’s most diverse and delicious regions