Pavia’s rich history and architectural wonders make it a captivating destination. A private guided tour, "Hundred Towers on the Ticino River," allows visitors to discover the city’s enchanting covered bridge, grand Duomo, and ancient towers. Led by a local guide, the two-hour exploration uncovers the legends and significance behind these impressive structures. With pricing starting at Kč 8,517 for groups of up to 25, this tour promises an immersive experience that delves into Pavia’s past and reveals why it’s a must-visit destination.
About Your Stay
- Explore Pavia’s rich history and impressive architecture on a 2-hour private guided tour priced at Kč 8,517 per group (up to 25 participants).
- Discover significant landmarks like the grand Duomo, Basilica of San Michele Maggiore, and the historic University of Pavia during the tour.
- Experience the picturesque covered bridge, known as the "Devils Bridge", and learn about the legends surrounding its construction.
- Visit elegant noble palaces, charming squares, and ancient towers that dot the historic landscape of Pavia.
- The tour can be booked with a reserve now & pay later option, and guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The private guide tour of Pavia, known for its Certosa, historic center, and medieval village, is priced at Kč 8,517 per group (up to 25 participants) and lasts for 2 hours.
Guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour also offers a reserve now & pay later option, allowing booking without immediate payment.
With these flexible terms, visitors can easily plan their trip to explore Pavia’s rich history and architecture, including the iconic covered bridge, significant churches, ancient towers, and the prestigious University of Pavia.
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Highlights of the Tour
On the private tour, visitors can walk along the covered bridge, offering stunning views of the Ticino river and the iconic statue of the washerwoman.
A stroll along the covered bridge rewards visitors with breathtaking vistas of the Ticino river and the iconic statue of the washerwoman.
They’ll also discover significant churches, including the grand Duomo, the Basilica of San Michele Maggiore, and the San Pietro in Ciel d’Oro.
The tour explores ancient towers, the historic University of Pavia, and picturesque noble palaces set in charming squares.
Travelers will uncover the rich history and architectural marvels that make Pavia a fascinating destination, from the medieval legends surrounding the "Devils Bridge" to the coronation site of Italian kings.
Historical Significance
As the article highlights, the covered bridge, also known as the "Devils Bridge", is steeped in historical legends.
The Church of San Michele Maggiore is a medieval Romanesque masterpiece, famous for the coronation of Italian kings, including Federico I in 1155.
The University of Pavia is one of Italy’s oldest and most prestigious institutions, boasting notable alumni like physicist Alessandro Volta.
The Basilica of San Pietro in Ciel d’Oro is a significant medieval religious monument, housing the remains of St. Augustine and a marble ark commissioned by Galeazzo II Visconti, a prominent historical figure.
Architectural Features
Basilica of San Pietro in Ciel d’Oro stands as a significant medieval religious monument, housing the remains of St. Augustine and a marble ark commissioned by Galeazzo II Visconti. The cathedral dedicated to Santo Stefano and Santa Maria Assunta boasts a Renaissance structure with one of Italy’s highest octagonal domes. Pavia’s architectural gems also include:
| Feature | Description |
| — | — |
| Piazza Vittoria | Main square featuring an underground market |
| Visconti Castle | Home to the Civic Museums and meeting point for tours |
| Towers | Ancient towers dot the historic landscape |
| Noble Palaces | Elegant noble residences grace picturesque squares |
| University of Pavia | One of Italy’s oldest and most prestigious institutions |
More Great Tours NearbyMeeting Point and Guide Information
The meeting point for the private guide tour of Pavia is the stairway of the Visconti Castle – Civic Museums, located at Viale XI Febbraio, number 35.
The private guide tour of Pavia meets at the stairway of the Visconti Castle – Civic Museums, located at Viale XI Febbraio, 35.
The local guide leading the tour will display a visible license badge for easy identification.
Tours are available in both Italian and English, catering to visitors’ language preferences.
With the guide’s expertise, guests can expect an informative and engaging exploration of Pavia’s rich history and architectural wonders, from the covered bridge to the historic University and the city’s impressive cathedrals and churches.
The Covered Bridge and Its Legends
Why is the covered bridge in Pavia known as the "Devils Bridge"?
According to local legends, the bridge’s construction posed immense challenges. The engineers struggled to complete it, until a mysterious stranger appeared, promising to finish the project in exchange for the first soul to cross it.
When the bridge was complete, the engineers tricked the stranger by sending a dog across first, enraging the supposed devil.
The bridge’s striking arched design and river views make it a picturesque highlight of Pavia’s historic center, though its name hints at the supernatural tales surrounding its construction.
Coronation of Italian Kings at San Michele Maggiore
Although less famous than the nearby Duomo, the Basilica of San Michele Maggiore holds immense historical significance.
This medieval Romanesque masterpiece was the site of the coronation of several Italian kings, including Federico I in 1155. Its grand interiors and intricate facade reflect the basilica’s prestigious status during the Middle Ages.
Visitors can marvel at the ornate details and imagine the grand ceremonies that once took place within these walls.
The Basilica of San Michele Maggiore stands as a testament to Pavia’s role as an important political and religious center in Italy’s history.
The Prestigious University of Pavia
Alongside the historic churches and bridges, Pavia proudly boasts one of Italy’s oldest and most prestigious universities.
The University of Pavia, founded in 1361, has produced numerous distinguished alumni, including:
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Alessandro Volta, the pioneering physicist who invented the electric battery.
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Gerolamo Cardano, a renowned Renaissance polymath who made advancements in mathematics, physics, and medicine.
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Ugo Foscolo, a prominent Italian poet and scholar who played a key role in the Italian Romantic movement.
Today, the University of Pavia continues to maintain its reputation for academic excellence, attracting students from around the world to its historic campus.
Questions About Your Stay
Is This Tour Suitable for Children or Families?
The tour seems well-suited for families and children, with its mix of historical sights, architecture, and scenic views. The free cancellation policy and reserve now & pay later option also make it flexible for families.
What Language Options Are Available for the Guided Tour?
The tours are available in Italian and English. The local guide will display a visible license badge for identification, ensuring clear communication during the guided experience.
Are There Any COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place for the Tour?
The tour offers both Italian and English language options. Plus, the operator follows COVID-19 safety protocols like mask-wearing and social distancing to ensure the well-being of participants.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs or Local Products During the Tour?
The tour does not include time for purchasing souvenirs or local products. However, the guide can provide recommendations on where to find shops and markets in Pavia’s historic center after the tour. Travelers can explore those on their own.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Customize the Itinerary?
The tour can be extended or customized upon request. Travelers can speak with the guide to discuss options for extending the duration or adjusting the itinerary to fit their interests and needs.
Final Verdict On This Stay
Pavia’s "Hundred Towers on the Ticino River" tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s rich history and architectural wonders. From the picturesque covered bridge to the grand Duomo, visitors will uncover the legends and significance of this enchanting destination. With a knowledgeable local guide, this two-hour private tour provides an immersive experience that showcases Pavia’s enduring cultural legacy.
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