Lodi​

Latest page update: 10 June 2025
By: Dion Protani
The city of Lodi is the capital city of the Province of Lodi with a population of 45,212 inhabitants.

Standing at an elevation of 87 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 41 km² and lies 33 kilometres south east of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy.

Lying on the banks of the River Adda, the city was the scene of Napoleon's first ever battle when on 10th May 1796 he defeated the Austrian army at what became known as the Battle of Lodi.

What People Ask About Lodi

Is Lodi worth visiting?
Yes, Lodi is a historic city in Lombardy known for its elegant piazza, Romanesque cathedral, and medieval architecture. It’s a good destination for a day trip from Milan.
What are the main attractions in Lodi?
Key sights include Piazza della Vittoria, the Cathedral of Lodi, the Church of San Francesco, and the historic Broletto. The city also has several museums and gardens.
How do you get to Lodi?
Lodi has its own train station with frequent services to Milan, which is around 30 km away. It’s also easily accessible by car via the A1 motorway.
What is Lodi known for?
Lodi is known for its Renaissance and Romanesque architecture, handmade ceramics, and the 1796 Battle of Lodi. It also has a strong agricultural tradition and local cuisine.
When is the best time to visit Lodi?
Spring and early autumn are ideal, with pleasant weather for walking around the city centre and exploring its historical buildings and outdoor spaces.
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Discover

Discover Lodi
​Exploring Lodi is simple as the main sights are all within a short distance of the main square; Piazza della Vittoria. Starting from there you'll find the city's main religious building the Basilica della Vergine Assunta, while just to the left of the cathedral there's the Broletto, the old name for a town hall in Italian. Pass under the arches of the Broletto and you arrive in Piazza Broletto, a quiet little square where you can enjoy some shade and something to drink. 

There are lots of shaded areas back in Piazza della Vittoria; each side of the square is a covered areas of porticoes which house dozens of shops and places to eat. Lodi is a great place for simply wandering and taking in the different shapes and sizes of the mix of architectural styles.

​There are various Romanesque and Baroque churches in the side streets around the main square while heading south west of Piazza della Vittoria you come to the more open area of Piazza Castello. The square is named after the Visconti Castle at the edge of the city centre with the "Torrione" tower its most iconic building. 

Things to Do

Things to Do in Lodi
  • Piazza della Vittoria: The main square of Lodi is considered one of the most beautiful in Lombardy, characterised by its harmonious architecture and fully porticoed edges. It serves as the heart of the city, hosting markets, festivals, and local events, with cafés and shops surrounding its cobbled centre.
  • Lodi Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta): Dominating the central piazza, the cathedral dates back to the 12th century and is one of the largest Romanesque churches in Lombardy. Its interior features frescoes, sculptures, and a crypt, while the adjoining bell tower offers a visual anchor for the historic centre.
  • Tempio Civico dell’Incoronata: This Renaissance octagonal church is considered a masterpiece of Lombard architecture. Built in the late 15th century, it houses intricate frescoes, gilded decorations, and marble inlays. It was commissioned by the city and is admired for both its religious and artistic significance.
  • Bridges and Paths along the Adda River: The Adda River flows just outside the city centre, providing walking and cycling paths along its banks. These scenic routes connect to nearby natural areas and offer views of the countryside, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a quiet break from the town.
  • Day Trip to Crema: Just 20 minutes away by train or car, Crema offers a similarly elegant historic centre, with a Renaissance cathedral, arcaded streets, and lively piazzas. It provides an excellent nearby option for those looking to explore another well-preserved Lombard town with its own unique character.
Lodi Tours and Activities
Comune di Lodi
Province: Lodi

Region: Lombardy

Population: 45,192​​ (in 2024 - source)

Size: 41 km²

Elevation: 87 metres

Highlights: Basilica della Vergine Assunta, Piazza della Vittoria

​Close by: Crema, Soncino, Pizzighettone, Pavia, Vigevano, Milan

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Lodi
  • Hotel Sesmones Located just outside the city along the Adda River, this restored farmhouse offers elegant rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and a peaceful garden setting. Guests appreciate the quiet location, refined interiors, and short drive into Lodi’s centre. €€€ (high-end)
  • Hotel Europa Situated near the train station and within walking distance of Piazza della Vittoria, this modern hotel provides comfortable rooms, private parking, and a varied breakfast. Visitors enjoy the central location, friendly staff, and convenience for exploring the historic centre. €€ (mid-range)
  • Albergo Anelli Found next to Lodi’s public gardens and only a few minutes’ walk from the cathedral and old town, this family-run hotel offers clean, simply furnished rooms and a welcoming atmosphere. Guests value the excellent location and good value for money. €€ (mid-range)
  • B&B Artincentro Positioned in a historic building in the heart of Lodi, this stylish bed and breakfast features individually decorated rooms and a shared kitchen area. Guests enjoy the artistic design, homemade breakfast, and being steps from local shops, cafés, and landmarks. €€ (mid-range)
  • Casetta di Paola Located in a quiet residential area a short drive from the centre, this guesthouse offers a private apartment with kitchenette, garden access, and parking. Visitors appreciate the independence, cleanliness, and friendly service from the host. €€ (mid-range)

Where to Eat

Where to Eat in Lodi
  • La Coldana: Situated in Lodi, La Coldana serves refined Italian cuisine with a focus on high-quality seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is set in a 17th-century farmhouse with exposed wooden beams and a warm, elegant dining room. Specialities include risotto, freshwater fish, and creative meat dishes, all beautifully presented. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
  • Fer – Forneria Artigiana: Located in Lodi, Fer is a contemporary bakery and casual eatery known for its sourdough pizzas and baked goods. Using organic stone-ground flour and natural fermentation, the menu features daily-changing pizza slices, focaccia, and sweet pastries, served in a minimalist, modern space. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
  • Ilde Bottega e Cucina: Also in Lodi, this modern trattoria and neighbourhood shop offers shared plates and regional dishes with a modern touch. The menu includes seasonal vegetables, slow-cooked meats, and creative reinterpretations of traditional recipes. The relaxed interior makes it well suited for both lunch and dinner. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Galbiati: Found in Lodi, Galbiati is a historic pasticceria known for its traditional cakes and pastries. Popular for breakfast and afternoon coffee, it serves cream-filled cannoncini, fruit tartlets, and classic Lombard cakes like Tortionata. The coffee service is of consistently high quality. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
  • The Bridge Pub: Situated in Lodi, this English-style pub features dark wood interiors, a wide beer selection, and a menu of burgers, sandwiches, and bar snacks. With a lively, informal vibe, it’s a popular meeting spot for groups and casual nights out. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)

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Places Close to [Place Name]

Places Close to Lodi
  • Cremona (approx. 35 km northeast of Lodi): Known for its rich musical heritage, Cremona is famous for being the birthplace of the renowned violin maker Antonio Stradivari. Visitors can explore the Museo del Violino (Violin Museum), the magnificent Cremona Cathedral, and enjoy the vibrant historic centre with its charming streets and piazzas.
  • Piacenza (approx. 40 km southeast of Lodi): A historic city with a mix of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Piacenza Cathedral and the impressive Palazzo Farnese are must-see landmarks, along with the Piazza Cavalli, a beautiful square home to grand sculptures and historic buildings. The town also offers a range of charming cafes and restaurants.
  • Milano (approx. 30 km northwest of Lodi): The bustling city of Milan is a major global fashion and cultural hub. Key attractions include the iconic Duomo di Milano, the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Sforza Castle. Milan is also home to the renowned Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper housed in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
  • Pavia (approx. 45 km southwest of Lodi): A charming town along the River Ticino, Pavia is home to the stunning Certosa di Pavia, a 14th-century monastery with impressive architecture and frescoes. Visitors can also explore the historic Pavia Cathedral and stroll along the Piazza della Vittoria, a lively square surrounded by cafés and shops.
  • Lodi’s Adda River Park (within Lodi): A peaceful nature reserve along the Adda River, ideal for walking, cycling, and birdwatching. The park offers beautiful views of the river and surrounding countryside, providing a relaxing environment for outdoor activities. It’s perfect for nature enthusiasts looking to explore the serene landscapes near Lodi.
Lombardy Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Lombardy

1. Lake Como
2. ​Milan
3. Lake Garda
4. Mantua
5. Lake Maggiore
6. Cremona
7. Lake Iseo
8. ​Lake Lugano
9. Pavia
10. San Pellegrino Terme

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Lombardy

How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Lodi
Lodi's train station is situated south of the city centre, a 10 minute walk (800 metres) from Piazza della Vittoria. Heading north it's a 31 minute journey to Milano Centrale, while heading east you can reach Cremona in 43 minutes or Mantova in an hour and 31 minutes. 

The most convenient airport for Lodi is Milan Linate Airport which is half an hour away by car (37 km). Lombardy's two other airports are slightly further away: Milan Bergamo Airport is 53 minutes by car (64 km) and Milan Malpensa Airport is an hour and 5 minutes by car (91 km).
​Public transport: ​central train station, local buses

By train: ​Milan - 31 minutes, Cremona - 43 minutes
By car: ​Pavia - 45 mins (35 km), Monza - 49 mins (51 km)​

Fly to: ​Milan Linate Airport - 30 minutes by car (37 km)

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