Cremona, a historic gem just a stone’s throw from Milan, beckons travelers seeking to uncover its captivating past. This private tour offers a chance to dive into the city’s rich cultural heritage, from its renowned nougat to the legendary craftsmanship of Stradivarius violins. With a focus on the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the towering Torrazzo, and other iconic landmarks, the experience promises a memorable exploration of Cremona’s charm and artistry. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or simply curious about Italy’s hidden gems, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.
About Your Stay
- This private tour of Cremona offers a comprehensive look at the city’s highlights, including its renowned nougat and Stradivarius violin-making heritage.
- The tour covers top attractions like the Church of Sant Agostino, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, and the Torrazzo, the highest bell tower in Europe.
- Visitors can explore Cremona’s rich culinary offerings, such as local chocolate, jams, and mustards, as well as discover its vibrant musical culture.
- The tour is priced at £225.46 per group (up to 15 participants) for a 2-hour duration and offers a full refund for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance.
- The tour is located close to Milan, making it an accessible and attractive option for those seeking a unique cultural experience.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This private tour of Cremona offers visitors a chance to explore the city known for its nougat and the famous Stradivarius violins.
Priced at £225.46 per group (up to 15 participants), the 2-hour tour provides a comprehensive look at the city’s highlights.
A 2-hour tour priced at £225.46 for up to 15 participants, providing a comprehensive look at the highlights of the city.
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now and pay later option is available.
The tour includes a licensed guide and optional museum entry ticket, with whispers available for large groups at an additional cost.
Looking for more options in Cremona? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Highlights and Attractions
The private tour of Cremona showcases the city’s renowned attractions, starting with a visit to the Church of Sant Agostino, featuring the captivating Altarpiece by the renowned artist Perugino.
Visitors can explore the exterior of the house where Antonio Stradivari, the legendary violin maker, once lived.
The tour then leads to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, known for its white Carrara marble facade, and the Torrazzo, the highest bell tower in Europe at 112 meters.
The tour also includes a stop at the Baptistery and the medieval Town Hall.
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Explore the Church of Sant Agostino
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See the house of Antonio Stradivari
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Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
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Witness the Torrazzo, Europe’s tallest bell tower
Cultural Experience
As visitors stroll through Cremona’s historic alleys, they’ll discover a wealth of pastry shops like Sperlari and Vergari, renowned for their Cremonese nougat.
Beyond the sweets, the tour also offers a chance to explore the city’s rich culinary heritage, including local chocolate, jams, and mustards.
Cremona’s culinary heritage extends beyond nougat to include local chocolate, jams, and mustards.
And for those passionate about music, the tour provides an opportunity to visit around 150 lutherie shops where violins and other stringed instruments are crafted.
The external visit to the Violin Museum showcases the iconic Stradivarius violins, a highlight for many.
Church of Sant Agostino and Altarpiece by Perugino
Visitors start their Cremona tour by visiting the Church of Sant Agostino, which features the renowned Altarpiece by the Italian Renaissance painter Pietro Perugino. The 16th-century altarpiece depicts the Madonna and Child enthroned with four saints. The impressive work exemplifies Perugino’s mastery of composition and use of color.
Some key highlights of the Church of Sant Agostino include:
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Intricate Baroque interior with ornate altars and frescoes.
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Ornate façade with a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements.
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Serene atmosphere for reflection and appreciation of religious art.
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Proximity to other top attractions like the Cathedral and Torrazzo.
Antonio Stradivari’s House and Lutherie Shops
After exploring the historic Church of Sant Agostino, the tour moves on to Antonio Stradivari’s house, where the renowned luthier lived and worked.
Visitors can admire the exterior of this significant building, which housed Stradivari’s workshop.
The tour then takes guests through the charming alleyways lined with around 150 lutherie shops where skilled artisans craft violins and other stringed instruments.
Visitors can witness the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into creating these world-renowned musical instruments.
The tour provides a unique insight into Cremona’s rich musical heritage and the art of violin making.
Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Torrazzo
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta stands as a magnificent testament to Cremona’s architectural prowess. Its stunning white Carrara marble facade is a sight to behold.
Towering above it’s the Torrazzo, the highest bell tower in Europe at 112 meters.
Visitors can:
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Admire the cathedral’s intricate details and religious artwork.
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Climb the Torrazzo for panoramic views of the city.
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Explore the adjacent medieval Town Hall.
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Marvel at the octagonal-shaped Baptistery, dating back to the 11th century.
This impressive religious complex offers a captivating glimpse into Cremona’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Baptistery and Medieval Town Hall
Situated adjacent to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the octagonal-shaped Baptistery dates back to the 11th century.
Its unique architectural design features an intricate marble exterior and decorative elements. Visitors can explore the interior with its baptismal font and admire the frescoes on the walls and ceilings.
Next door, the medieval Town Hall impresses with its grand facade and arcaded loggia.
This historic building served as the administrative center for Cremona in the past. Today, it houses various municipal offices and is a prominent landmark in the city’s historic center.
Meeting Point and Tour Details
To start the private tour of Cremona, the licensed guide will meet participants outside the Church of Sant Agostino, located at via Giovan Battista Plasio, street number 4.
The guide will have a visible license badge for easy identification.
The tour details are as follows:
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Live tour guide available in Italian, English, Spanish, German, and French.
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Includes licensed tour guide and optional museum entry ticket.
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Whispers available for large groups at 2.50 euro per person.
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Check availability for starting times.
Questions About Your Stay
Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Specific Interests?
Yes, you can customize this tour to fit your specific interests. The tour provider offers flexibility, allowing you to tailor the itinerary and duration to meet your preferences. Just discuss your needs with the guide when booking.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Larger Groups or Children?
The tour price is £225.46 per group of up to 15 participants. While there are no discounts for larger groups or children, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the Tour Accessible for Individuals With Mobility Limitations?
The tour is designed to be accessible for individuals with mobility limitations. The guide can provide assistance as needed, and the group size is limited to ensure a comfortable experience for all participants.
What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?
The tour has no formal dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended. Layers may be helpful as tours visit both indoor and outdoor sites. Casual, comfortable clothing that allows easy movement is ideal.
Are There Any Additional Costs Not Included in the Tour Price?
The tour price of £225.46 covers the licensed tour guide and optional museum entry ticket. However, there may be additional costs for whispers (2.50 euro per person) if required for large groups.
Final Verdict On This Stay
This private tour of Cremona offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can marvel at the stunning architecture, indulge in delectable nougat, and discover the legendary craftsmanship of Stradivarius violins. Whether you’re a history buff or a music enthusiast, this 2-hour experience promises a memorable exploration of Cremona’s charm and artistry.
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