Welcome to my definitive guide to house sitting in Brescia, Italy. This lovely city nestled in the north of the country, 60 miles east of Milan is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors. But in this guide, I’ll be outlining exactly why Brescia and the Lombardy region are great house sitting destinations.
Brescia has a rich history dating back to ancient times. It was a Roman colony known as Brixia and played a significant role during the Roman period due to its strategic location.
I’ve enjoyed many trips to Brescia and have made great friends in the city. It’s a place that Hannah and I will always return to. I’m looking forward to telling you all about one of my favorite Italian cities. Let’s dive into the definitive guide to house sitting in Brescia.
Why Everybody Should Visit Brescia, Italy
Brescia is a city rich in history, culture, and industrial significance, making it an all-encompassing destination. With its ancient roots, Brescia has a storied past and many well-preserved landmarks such as the Brescia Castle and the Roman Forum. It also has two cathedrals situated side-by-side, Duomo Vecchio (old cathedral) and Duomo Nuovo (new cathedral).
Beyond the historical attractions, Brescia has a vibrant cultural scene. The Santa Giulia Museum, housed in a former monastery and a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a comprehensive journey through Brescia’s evolution from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages. Being a major university city means ample bars, cafes, and restaurants ranging from traditional to ultra-modern.
Brescia is perfectly located for exploring some of the most iconic destinations in the world. An efficient and affordable train network connects Brescia with cities like Venice, Verona, and Turin all in less than 2 hours. This is to say nothing of the fabulous nearby Lake Garda and Lake Iseo which I think stand out as two of Italy’s most stunning locations.
House Sitting in Brescia, Italy
Brescia and Italy as a whole are emerging markets for house sitting. As such, opportunities can be quite sought after when they come online. Dozens of active profiles across the major house sitting platforms regularly post listings and being proactive and prepared to apply will put you in a prime position to secure excellent house sitting jobs in Brescia.
My Experience of House Sitting in Brescia, Italy
I first visited Brescia in 2018, during a time when I was learning to speak Italian. I met a couple through the volunteer website Workaway willing to take me in for a month-long language exchange. We became great friends and their wonderful home in the hills surrounding Brescia has become a regular escape for Hannah and me.
Our house sitting experiences in Brescia developed organically through our friendship and we have subsequently taken care of their home on several occasions. Their huge property has original features that date back almost 1000 years! It’s an incredible place and a true slice of traditional and historic Italian culture.
They have one dog – Ringo, who is deaf but as loyal and dedicated to his human friends as any dog I’ve ever met. The menagerie of farm animals features varying numbers of chickens, ducks, geese, sheep, and rabbits. It has always been a fun farm experience taking care of the whole gang and chopping wood to build fires and heat the house through the epic furnace.
House Sitting Opportunities in Brescia, Italy
As I already alluded to, Brescia and Italy as a whole are emerging markets for house sitting opportunities. Across the top house sitting platforms dozens of people regularly list their homes seeking house sitters throughout the year.
This should not deter anyone from seeking a house sitting placement in Brescia. I chose to write a definitive guide to house sitting in Brescia because of the many fantastic experiences I have had in the city and the proximity of Brescia to many incredible northern Italian towns and cities.
As part of a wider Italian adventure, Brescia can easily form part of an amazing once-in-a-lifetime Italy trip. House sitting can provide an enhanced experience whilst offering better equipped and more affordable accommodation options.
How to Secure a House Sit in Brescia, Italy
To find a house sit in Brescia, you’ll need to register with a house sitting platform. Trusted Housesitters is highly recommended for its extensive listings and reliability, though there are other platforms worth exploring. Having multiple memberships can increase your chances of securing house sits, especially if you’re looking for regular opportunities.
You can discover and browse numerous house sitting options by joining Trusted Housesitters with a free membership. Signing up is straightforward – simply provide your email address to begin exploring available listings in Brescia and beyond. This is a great way to get started and to see what the fuss is all about.
A full Trusted Housesitters membership costs $129 per year, which grants you unlimited access to house sits. This fee is significantly more affordable than a single night’s stay in many of Brescia’s hotels. While alternatives like Mind My House ($29/year), Workaway ($49/year), and Nomador ($99/year) offer lower membership costs, they typically have fewer listings.
Use our exclusive code BEACHES25 during checkout to receive a 25% discount on any Trusted Housesitters membership. Start your house sitting journey today by signing up and exploring opportunities in beautiful Brescia. Click here to get started.
Building a Profile
On every house sitting platform, you’ll find a profile section designed to showcase your house sitting expertise, motivations, and unique attributes. This is your opportunity to demonstrate why you’re an exceptional choice as a house sitter. Following your application, hosts typically review profiles to assess potential candidates. Ensure your details are accurate, kept up to date, and relevant.
Enhance your profile with a collection of photos that depict you in responsible and friendly settings, ideally with pets. Fully verify your profile and include links to social media pages, personal websites, and contact details to provide hosts with a comprehensive view of who you are.
For newcomers, Trusted Housesitters allows you to submit three character references in place of formal reviews. Request testimonials from three friends who can provide relevant insights about your trustworthiness and capabilities.
Setting Alerts and Applying
Exploring properties and submitting applications is an exciting part of the house sitting process. I enjoy browsing the listings and looking at the variety of beautiful houses and cute pets. If, on your first look, you don’t find the perfect match right away, bookmark your favorite properties and save your search criteria. You’ll then receive notifications as soon as suitable opportunities arise.
Applying is done via a simple email on the house sitting website. Be sure to craft a personalized and friendly message for each listing. Avoid generic emails sent to multiple hosts, as these are easily identified and, I’m told, always turned down. Take the time to thoroughly review each listing and address any specific details mentioned by the host.
Investing effort into tailoring each application demonstrates your genuine enthusiasm and significantly enhances your chances of securing the best house sitting assignments in Brescia. For further application tips, refer to my previous article – The Informative Step-By-Step Guide to Applying for a House Sit.
Being Offered a House Sit in Brescia
If your application is successful, the host will officially offer you the house sitting assignment. This is done via the same message or email service as the application process and requires both parties to click and agree to the dates. Be sure to get this official confirmation as without it you may not be covered by the insurance options included with some memberships.
House sitting comes with great privileges but also great responsibility. Be 100% sure about accepting a house sit in Brescia before clicking the button to confirm. There are no legal binds to hold you to the date but canceling dates after accepting is guaranteed to shorten any house sitter’s career.
Stay in touch with the host in the build-up to the sit. I always like to exchange numbers on WhatsApp for a quicker and more responsive form of communication. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if there is anything you’re unclear about or would like to know before arriving. Most importantly – enjoy house sitting in Italy!
What To Expect in Brescia, Italy
Brescia is a captivating city that blends ancient history with vibrant modern life. The Roman ruins and Renaissance architecture are fun to explore, history geeks like me will love it. The two cathedrals are visually stunning and require numerous photos – Duomo Vecchio dates back to the 12th century and is an amazingly well-preserved ancient structure.
Strolling through the many picturesque piazzas and cobblestone streets, cafes and trattorias crop up on every corner. The food and wine are always excellent and craft beer bars are becoming increasingly popular. Hit the bars around early evening and expect to be plied with delicious aperitivo snacks while you drink.
Don’t miss Brescia Castle which stands high up on the hill looking out over the entire city. It’s great to hike up to the imposing castle and walk the grounds that have stood for centuries. The city has many lively markets and cultural festivals throughout the year.
Best Brescia Bars
Having saved a small fortune on accommodation by house sitting in Brescia, you’ll have plenty left to enjoy the city’s excellent social side. Here are just a couple of my favorite bars in Brescia;
Top Brescia Bars
- Spine. My go-to bar spot and a hidden gem in Brescia. Spine always boasts an impressive selection of craft beers all served in a warm and inviting atmosphere. They have nice snacks at aperitvo time and it’s the perfect place to unwind with friends after a long day. The friendly staff speak good English and are very knowledgeable about their beers.
- La Vineria. If you love wine, La Vineria is a must-visit. This charming wine bar offers a fantastic selection of local and international wines, paired perfectly with delicious tapas. The excellent staff is always ready to recommend the perfect wine to suit your taste, and it’s a cozy traditional Italian spot to enjoy good snacks and better wine.
- Mondo Liquido. Always expect a vibrant atmosphere and eclectic decor at Mondo Liquido – a popular spot for both locals and tourists. They serve a wide range of innovative cocktails and have a great selection of spirits. It’s the perfect place to start your night out in Brescia, with its lively vibe and friendly crowd.
Best Brescia Restaurants
Italian food is among the finest cuisines in the world. I have always eaten like a king during trips to Brescia and there are some fantastic traditional eateries in the city. Here are a couple of my top ristorante Italiano;
Top Brescia Restaurants
- Osteria Al Bianch. A true Brescian institution, Osteria Al Bianchi offers an authentic taste of local cuisine. The rustic setting and hearty dishes like casoncelli and polenta make you feel like you’re dining at a friend’s home. The cozy atmosphere adds to the charm, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal.
- Trattoria Porteri. This family-run trattoria is renowned for its warm hospitality and delicious homemade pasta. Located in a quaint part of Brescia, Trattoria Porteri serves up traditional dishes with a modern twist. The risotto here is a must-try, and the wine list features excellent local selections to complement your meal.
- Osteria della Zia Gabri: Tucked away in a quiet corner of Brescia, Osteria della Zia Gabri is one of my favorite traditional Italian restaurants. The menu is filled with classic dishes all made from fresh, local ingredients. The intimate setting and attentive service make it a great choice for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
Best Day Trips From Brescia
I’ve mentioned Brescia’s excellent strategic location in Northern Italy a few times in this definitive guide. Here are just a few of the easy day trips you can take during a house sitting stay in Brescia;
Top Brescia Day Trips
- Lake Iseo. A short drive or an easy direct train from Brescia, Lake Iseo is a serene and beautiful destination, perfect for a relaxing day trip. Take a boat ride to Monte Isola, the largest lake island in Italy and if you’re feeling energetic, hike to the hilltop chapel. The view is worth it. Then enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the many lakeside restaurants and a swim in the pristine water.
- Lake Garda. The largest lake in Italy, Lake Garda is a must-visit destination. From water sports and hiking to exploring picturesque towns like Sirmione and Peschiera del Garda, there’s something for everyone. The lake’s crystal-clear waters and the surrounding mountains create a stunning backdrop for a memorable day out.
- Venice. A day trip to Venice is like stepping into a fairytale. Wander through the labyrinth of canals, visit iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Rialto Bridge, take a gondola ride, or simply eat and drink your way around the mesmerizing streets. Despite being a bit further from Brescia, the enchanting beauty of Venice is still close enough for a day trip.
- Verona. Known as the city of love, Verona is famous for its association with Romeo and Juliet. Stroll through the charming streets, visit Juliet’s House, and marvel at the ancient Roman Arena. The city’s rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant atmosphere make it the perfect day trip from Brescia.
Best Brescia Aperitovos
If you’re not familiar with the Italian tradition of aperitivo time, allow me to explain. Aperitivo is a cherished Italian tradition that combines socializing with light, pre-dinner drinks and free snacks. Typically enjoyed in the early evening, between around 6 and 8 PM, aperitivo is a way to unwind after work and ease into the evening. Here are my favorite Brescia aperitivo spots;
Top Aperitivo Spots in Brescia
- Tomasoni dal 1967. Deserving of its own article Tomasoni is one of the best aperitivo bars I have come across in Italy. You’ll need to book to ensure you get a table but the offering of savory and sweet delights during aperitivo time is second-to-none. It’s a little outside of town in the suburb of Bovezzo, but absolutely worth a 20-minute trip.
- Bar Chinotto. Recommended by my friends from Brescia, Bar Chinotto offers an impressive aperitivo with a hearty supply of snacks with every drink. Expect buckets of crisps, platters of fresh finger sandwiches, and mixed tapas. There is a large selection of wines by the glass and a very affordable menu of beers and cocktails.
- Mõma Cafe. An ideal aperitivo location that doesn’t charge a premium for the view of a beautiful piazza and the two cathedrals. Every early evening drink comes with a platter of savory snacks, sandwiches, sliced meats, and olives. What better way to kick start your evening out in Brescia?
Conclusion
Writing this definitive guide has made me miss Brescia and Italy a lot. As I write this article in Adelaide, Australia I am Googling nearby Italian delis, aperitivo bars, and wineries, thankfully I’ve found some! I hope it’s given you a taste of what to expect from a house sitting experience in Brescia.
From the stunning scenery, the passionate people, the amazing food and drink, the ancient history, and the abundant day trip possibilities, Brescia has something for everyone. House sitting can provide enhanced experiences while freeing up your budget to enjoy more of the finer aspects of Italian life.
Enjoy your time house sitting in Brescia, Italy!
*Owners consent given to show property and pets
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FAQs
Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about house sitting in Italy.
Are there lots of house sitting jobs in Italy?
Yes, there are plenty of house sitting jobs in Italy. Sites like Trusted Housesitters, Nomador, and Mind My House regularly have dozens of listings accepting applications.
Do you get paid to be a house sitter in Italy?
No, generally there is no financial exchange between the house sitter and the home-owner. The benefit comes in the house sitter receiving an enhanced experience and a fantastic place to stay and the home-owner having a reliable and trusted person to care of their home and pets.
Can tourists take on long-term house sitting in Italy?
Yes, tourists can undertake long-term house sitting in Italy but the length of your allowed stay will depend on your nationality. As a UK citizen, I am allowed to stay in Europe for 90 days every 180 days. European citizens can generally stay for as long as they like. Be sure to check with your country and the Italian and European requirements before accepting long-term house sits in Italy.