Brescia is a natural base for the southern shore of Lake Garda — the castle town of Sirmione is 40 minutes away by car or bus — and for the quieter Lake Iseo to the north. The Franciacorta wine region between them makes Italy's best sparkling wines and is an easy half-day drive of cellars and tastings. For skiing in winter, the slopes of Val Camonica are under two hours north.