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Gallarate

Gallarate, Lombardy, Italy

Discover Gallarate: A Hidden Gem in Lombardy's Crown Nestled in the heart of Lombardy, Gallarate offers a charming escape from the bustling tourist hubs. More than just a gateway to Milan Malpensa Airport, this vibrant …

#Gallarate#Lombardy#Italy#Northern Italy#Historic town

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Gallarate.

Top Hotels in Gallarate

Top Flights to Gallarate

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Gallarate.

Tours

Explore Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta

Visit the beautiful Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, a historic site known for its remarkable architecture and art.

Museo Maga

An intriguing modern art museum housing contemporary Italian art pieces.

Gallarate Historical Center Walk

Take a stroll through Gallarate's historical center and enjoy sights from Italy's rich past.

Shopping

Centro Commerciale Malpensa Uno

A shopping center offering a wide variety of shops and eateries, perfect for a shopping spree.

Taste of Lombardy

Visit local markets and experience the authentic culinary flavors of Lombardy.

Outdoor

Parco Bassetti

A serene park in the heart of Gallarate ideal for walking, jogging, or a family picnic.

Cycling Tour in Valle del Ticino

Join a guided cycling tour through the scenic Ticino Valley, exploring its natural beauty and biodiversity.

Stroll Along the Arno River

A peaceful walk along the Arno River, offering picturesque views and a refreshing environment.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Gallarate.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

52,000

Languages

Italian, Italian

Average weather

Gallarate

Jan

6°-1°

Feb

8°0°

Mar

13°3°

Apr

16°6°

May

21°10°

Jun

25°14°

Jul

28°17°

Aug

27°17°

Sep

23°14°

Oct

17°9°

Nov

10°4°

Dec

6°0°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Gallarate.

What people love

Gallarate, located in Lombardy, Italy, offers several appealing aspects for travelers:

Location: Gallarate is situated in a strategic location, close to Milan Malpensa Airport, making it a convenient stopover for travelers arriving or departing from the airport. It also has good transport links to other cities in Lombardy and beyond.
Cultural Attractions: The town has a rich history and boasts several historical sites and cultural attractions, such as the Church of San Pietro and the Civic Museum. Visitors can explore the charming streets, squares, and architecture that reflect the town's past.
Shopping: Gallarate is known for its shopping opportunities, with a variety of shops, boutiques, and markets offering local products, fashion items, and souvenirs. The town's markets are also a great place to experience the local lifestyle and cuisine.
Outdoor Activities: Surrounding Gallarate are beautiful natural landscapes, including parks and green spaces, where visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, or picnicking. The nearby Ticino Park offers a tranquil escape from the urban hustle and bustle.
Food and Drink: Lombardy is renowned for its culinary delights, and Gallarate is no exception. Visitors can savor authentic Italian cuisine in local restaurants, trattorias, and cafes, sampling regional specialties and wines.

Overall, Gallarate offers a mix of history, culture, shopping, outdoor activities, and gastronomic experiences, making it a rewarding destination for travelers seeking a taste of authentic Italian life.

What to know

Gallarate, located in the Lombardy region of Italy, is a charming town with much to offer visitors. However, like any destination, there are a few potential drawbacks to traveling to Gallarate. Here are some cons to consider:

Limited tourist attractions: Gallarate is a smaller town compared to popular tourist destinations in Italy like Rome or Florence. While it has its own unique charm, there may be fewer tourist attractions and activities available compared to larger cities.
Transportation limitations: Gallarate is not as well-connected by public transportation as major cities in Italy. While there is a train station in Gallarate, reaching other destinations may require multiple transfers or longer travel times.
Limited English proficiency: While many Italians in tourist areas speak English, you may encounter fewer English speakers in a smaller town like Gallarate. This could potentially pose a language barrier for travelers who do not speak Italian.
Limited dining options: While Gallarate offers authentic Italian cuisine, the selection of restaurants and dining options may be more limited compared to larger cities. This could be a consideration for travelers looking for a wide variety of dining choices.
Limited nightlife: Gallarate may not offer as vibrant a nightlife scene as larger cities, with fewer options for entertainment and nightlife activities in the evenings.

Overall, while Gallarate has its own unique appeal and can be a great destination for those looking to explore a quieter, more local side of Italy, travelers should be aware of these potential limitations when planning their visit.

Gallarate is a town located in the province of Varese, in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. It has a rich history that dates back to Roman times and has evolved significantly over the centuries. Here is a detailed history of Gallarate, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks.

Early History

Roman Era: The area where Gallarate now stands was inhabited in Roman times. It was likely a small settlement that benefited from its proximity to the important Roman roads. Evidence of Roman presence includes various archaeological finds.

Middle Ages

Lombard Period: During the Lombard domination, around the 6th to 8th centuries, Gallarate started to gain prominence as a small fortified settlement.
Holy Roman Empire: Gallarate was part of the Holy Roman Empire and was influenced by feudal lords and local bishops.

Renaissance and Early Modern Period

15th Century: Gallarate began to develop more significantly during the late medieval period and Renaissance as trade and crafts flourished.
Spanish and Austrian Rule: Like much of Lombardy, Gallarate came under Spanish rule in the 16th century, followed by Austrian control in the 18th century. This period saw administrative and infrastructural developments.

19th Century

Napoleonic Era: During the Napoleonic Wars, Gallarate became part of the Cisalpine Republic and later the Kingdom of Italy under Napoleon.
Industrialization: The 19th century saw Gallarate begin its transformation into an industrial center. The arrival of the railway in the mid-19th century further spurred its growth.

20th Century

World Wars: Gallarate, like many Italian towns, was affected by both World Wars. It played a role in the resistance movement against Fascist and Nazi forces during World War II.
Post-War Development: After World War II, Gallarate expanded rapidly as part of Italy's economic boom. It became an important industrial and commercial hub.

Significant Historical Figures

Giovanni Battista Crespi (Il Cerano): A prominent painter and architect from the late Renaissance period, known for his religious works, was born in the nearby area and influenced the local artistic scene.

Important Landmarks

Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta: This historic church is one of the most significant religious sites in Gallarate, featuring beautiful architecture and art.
Palazzo Minoletti: An example of Rationalist architecture, this building is an important part of Gallarate’s modern history.
MAGA (Museo Arte Gallarate): A contemporary art museum that hosts numerous exhibitions and events, playing a key role in the cultural life of the town.

Gallarate's history is marked by its strategic location, which has influenced its development from a small settlement to a significant industrial and commercial center in northern Italy. Its rich cultural and architectural heritage continues to be a point of pride for its residents.