Attractions and Places To See around Gallarate - Top 20

Gallarate boasts several significant historical landmarks. The Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, dating back to the 16th century, is known for its remarkable architecture, frescoes by Luigi Cavenaghi, and sculptures by Giuseppe Rosnati. The Church of San Pietro is the oldest church in town, showcasing classic Romanesque architecture from the 11th to 13th centuries. You can also visit the Panperduto Dam, a man-made monument marking the birth of the Naviglio and Villoresi canals, which is a significant hydraulic junction.

Beyond the town, Gallarate is immersed in the Ticino Park, offering extensive natural surroundings. You can visit Lake Comabbio, which provides an oasis of beauty and peace with direct access to a bike path. Other natural features include Parco di Villa Litta, a serene park surrounding an 18th-century neoclassical villa, and Parco della Valle dell'Olona, located southeast of Gallarate.

Yes, Gallarate is home to significant cultural institutions. The MAGA (Gallarate Art Museum) houses over 5,000 works by 20th-century artists and hosts various exhibitions. Additionally, the Museum of the Gallaratese Society of Homeland History preserves excavated objects from the pre-Roman necropolis of Golasecca, along with ancient art, paintings, and local historical mementos.

The region around Gallarate offers diverse outdoor activities, especially cycling and running. You can explore the cycling routes that traverse the Ticino Park and along the Villoresi Canal. For those who enjoy running or walking, there are several running trails, including loops around Castello di Crenna and La Boschina.

Many attractions around Gallarate are suitable for families. The Lake Comabbio area is family-friendly, offering scenic views and a bike path. The Valmorea Railway Cycle Path is also a great option for families, providing an easy cycling experience through historical industrial sites. For aviation enthusiasts, Volandia Parco e Museo del Volo Malpensa, located near Malpensa Airport, offers extensive exhibitions of aircraft and is a popular family destination.

Gallarate is well-suited for cycling. You can find numerous cycling routes, including the popular Valmorea Railway Cycle Path (Valle Olona Cycle Path), which follows a former railway line. Another option is the Valle Olona cycle path in Castellanza, known for its car-free environment. For longer rides, consider the 'Panperduto Dam and Ticino Park Loop' or the 'Lakes Varese and Comabbio Cycle Loop' available in the road cycling guide.

Absolutely. For scenic views, visit Crenna, a charming hilltop neighborhood offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, especially at sunset. The Iron Bridge Over the Villoresi Canal also provides a noteworthy panorama of the valley, where the Ticino River borders Lombardy and Piedmont, with the Monte Rosa massif and Monviso visible in the background at sunset.

The best time to visit Gallarate for outdoor activities is generally during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for cycling, hiking, and exploring the parks and natural features without the intense heat of summer or the chill of winter. The natural landscapes, especially in Ticino Park, are particularly vibrant during these months.

Visitors frequently praise the blend of historical and natural beauty. The Panperduto Dam is appreciated as an iconic place to witness the origin of the Naviglio and Villoresi canals. Lake Comabbio is often described as an 'oasis of beauty and peace.' The Valmorea Railway Cycle Path is enjoyed for its unique journey through industrial heritage and scenic sections.

Yes, aviation enthusiasts should visit Volandia Parco e Museo del Volo Malpensa. Located a short distance from Malpensa Airport, this extensive museum features a wide collection of aircraft, helicopters, cars, and model aircraft, offering a fascinating insight into the history of flight.

Yes, there are several options for running and walking. You can find various running trails, including the 'Trail in the Boia Valley – Fontanili Trail loop' and the 'Castello di Crenna loop'. These routes offer a chance to explore the local landscape and historical areas on foot.