Iseo

Known as the capital of the lake, the bustling town of Iseo retains the charm of its medieval origins, with narrow streets and characteristic tower houses. Today it is celebrated for its elegant shops, numerous restaurants, bars, and cafés, as well as its historic Friday market.

WHAT TO SEE

Piazza Garibaldi – Surrounded by buildings with porticos, the central square hosts the first monument erected in Italy dedicated to Giuseppe Garibaldi in 1883, the Town Hall (1830), designed by the architect Vantini, and the Church of Santa Maria del Mercato (14th century).
Oldofredi Castle – The ancient and well-pre-served 12th-century fortress can be reached in a few minutes from the square, going up Via Mirolte. Now a venue for cultural events, its imposing stone structure dominates the town, and houses the Museum of the Two Wars, with weapons and equipment used by the armies during the First and Second World Wars. A few steps away, on a small hill, where once stood a large Roman villa from the 2nd century AD, stands the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Neve (17th century).
Parish Church of Sant’Andrea – of ancient origins, the building features a Romanesque façade with a central bell tower. To the right of the latter, the 14th-century funeral ark of Giacomo Oldofredi – a prominent figure in Iseo’s history – was walled in during the 19th century. In-side, you can admire the painting “Saint Michael Archangel” by Francesco Hayez. In the same square you can find the 13th-cen-tury Church of San silvestro, with its distinctive fresco depicting a danse macabre.
Arsenale Palace – Built between the 12th and 13th centuries, it was a merchant warehouse connected to the nearby square and the lake. The Venetian government designated it as a headquarters for the soldiers serving the nearby Palazzo della Quadra, and it was probably following this use that the building was called Arsenale. After restoration in the 1980s, it became the seat of the Magistrates’ Court, then the Justice of the Peace, and finally the cultural foundation, which still uses it today as an exhibition space.

HIGHLIGHTS

The Village of Clusane – Dominated by the imposing Carmagnola Castle (14th century), the ancient fishing village has become a renowned gastronomic centre, with a focus on lake fish cuisine. The typical dish is baked tench with polenta, to which a festival is dedicated during the third week of July.

WALKS AND EXCURSIONS

Boat Tours – From the harbour, scheduled boat trips and cruises depart to discover Monte Isola, the two smaller islands, and other coastal towns. The landing stage and ticket office are located at the harbour Gabriele Rosa.
Antica Strada Valerina – An ancient foothill road that for centuries connected Iseo to the Camonica Valley, today the Strada Valeriana is an enchanting hiking trail of approximately 24 kilometres, with a 1,135-metre elevation gain that follows path no. 291 from Pilzone di Iseo to Pisogne. The route, restored for tourism purposes, offers splendid views of Lake Iseo and the surrounding mountains. It is recommended to travel it in stages, using the train or boat service to travel between the various locations.
Big Bench – The green Big Bench is located in the hamlet Pilzone, precisely in San Fermo, and offers a spectacular view of Lake Iseo and Monte Isola. The itinerary starts from the cemetery parking lot, following the signs for the Antica Strada Valeriana towards Monticelli Brusati. The path, steep and paved with large stones, is suitable for trained hikers. A few steps away, you can also visit the 17th-century Church of San Fermo.
Cultural Cycle Route Bergamo – Brescia – This cycle path, an extension of the historic Brescia-Paratico route, passes through the hamlet Cremignane on a hilly stretch with views of the lake and the “Lamette” wetlands, before descending to the historic village of Clusane.
Torbiere del Sebino Nature Reserve – South of Iseo is one of the three entrances to the Torbiere Reserve, an oasis of biodiversity with ponds and marshland flora. This entrance leads to the visitor centre and the watchtower, ideal for observing local wildlife. Open year-round with a €2 ticket. Dogs and bicycles are prohibited.

INFO SHOPPING

The historic Friday market takes place from 08:00 to 13:00. The historic centre is the stage for the largest and most important market on Lake Iseo and Franciacorta. In a smaller version, Tuesday is also a market day, at the same locations and times. The Antiques and Vintage Markets are held every third Sunday of the month (except December), from 10:00 to 19:00 in Viale Repubblica. The Farmers’ Market is scheduled every second Sunday of the month from 10:00 to 19:00 in Viale Repubblica

HOW TO GET THERE

By train – Iseo is served by the Brescia – Iseo – Edolo regional line, which passes through Franciacorta and connects the city with the eastern shore of Lake Iseo and the Camonica Valley. The train station is a 5-minute walk from the centre and the harbour. Info and timetables: Trenord
By bus – The Brescia – Iseo – Edolo line is served by bus as well, but the train line is more convenient and frequent. The main stops are located in Via Mier and Via Roma. Info and timetables: FNM Autoservizi
Moreover, the bus is the only connection to Sarnico and the western shore, as an alternative to the boat. The stop is located in Via Gorzoni. Info and timetables: Arriva Italia

WINERY VISITS AND TASTINGS

Nestled in the Franciacorta region, amid scenic vineyards overlooking the lake, the following wineries offer guided tours and tastings by appointment: