Activities in Maderno

Culture

From Roman ruins to botanical gardens and paper mills, there is plenty to keep you busy in Maderno. Delve into the past and head to Maderno's very own Roman villa, built in 38 AD and partially excavated, the site has interesting fragments of mosaics and frescos. For something more exotic take a visit to the botanical gardens, you'll find it bursting with colourful plants from 5 different continents. The gardens are owned by the University of Milan and open from May to September. As well as being famous for its beautiful setting, Maderno is also home to the valley of the papermills. As long ago as the 4th century there were reams of paper being manufatured here, the industry flourished in the 19th and 20th centuries until grinding to a halt in the 1960s. The original mill is now a museum, a small charge gets you entry and is used towards ongoing restoration of the site. Pick up a FREE walking map from the museum and follow the route past the old mill buildings.

Why not try - 

• going to the lake front for an apertivo. Most bars offer free nibbles with drinks, so why not go there for a light dinner.
• heading down to the beautiful bay of Salo. Nicknamed the mini Milan it is a perfect place to pick up some souvenirs
• exploring the local market held on Thursdays. It is just a 15 minute walk from the centre, it can also be reached by bus from the bus stop opposite Chiesa Santa Andrea.

Venice City Tour
Enjoy a full day in the floating city of charm and romance. With elegant palaces, the unique Grand Canal and St Mark's Square with its Doge's Palace and renowned Basilica, Venice is a must-see for all visitors.

Venice by Night Tour
Experience this amazing Italian floating city at night. Built entirely on canals, magical Venice is best enjoyed on an evening gondola tour.

Florence City Tour
The Jewel of Tuscany and the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a fantastic city to visit during your Italian holidays. Amongst its vast array of arts and treasures you can visit the pink, white and green marble cathedral, the Duomo, the historic Uffizi Gallery and the ancient Ponte Vecchio.

Milan City Tour
Spend a day in Milan, a city of history, music, fashion and shopping. The city is best known for its mighty Duomo and the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie housing Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper. Also worth a visit are the impressive Sforzesco Castle and La Scala Opera Museum.

Mantua & Sigurta Garden
Enjoy the charm and atmosphere of a medieval town and take a stroll through Mantua's Palace with over 500 elaborate rooms with internal courtyards and gardens. The Parco Giardino Sigurta is considered one of the most beautiful gardens in the world and a hidden secret in Italy.

Lake Tour
Visit the largest of Northern Italy's lakes. Take a short boat ride, sample some wonderful Italian ice cream or just absorb the relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.

Wine Tour
While staying in Bardolino, it would be a shame not to get to know the most famous produce of the area a little better. When this marvellous wine is next served at your table you will be able to say that you have visited the beautiful vineyards that bear its name. Take the opportunity to sample and even take some home with you.

Verona
Spend the day in classical Verona, enjoying the fascinating monuments, beautiful shops and friendly Italian welcome.