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Offered languages
- English
- English
Pavia was historically one of Italy’s most significant cities. On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll discover the remarkable past of this former capital of kingdoms. As you walk through its medieval streets, you’ll find out how this strategic river settlement evolved from a Roman military camp, to a royal capital, to a university town. This tour starts at the imposing Castello Visconteo, built in the 1360s after Milan’s powerful Visconti family ended Pavia’s independence. You’ll weave through Strada Nuova, past the university complex founded by the Visconti, and explore the area where Pavia’s famous medieval towers once dominated the skyline. Along the way, you’ll discover how Lombard kings, Renaissance scholars, and Italian revolutionaries all left their mark on this historic riverside city. By the end of this tour, you’ll understand why this overlooked Italian gem deserves recognition for its pivotal role in European history.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
The tour begins at the entrance of Castello Visconteo.
The tour ends at Borgo Ticino.
Itinerary
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(Pass by)
Marvel at this imposing brick fortress built in the 1360s by the powerful Visconti family of Milan, featuring massive walls and corner towers. You'll discover how this castle symbolized the end of Pavia's independence and now houses the city's civic museums.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Admire the elegant Renaissance courtyard and façade of one of Europe's oldest universities, founded in 1361. You'll explore the academic institution where Alessandro Volta conducted his groundbreaking experiments on electricity.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Stroll through this historic square named after Leonardo da Vinci, who contributed to Pavia's architectural legacy during the Renaissance. You'll see how the city honors its connection to one of history's greatest minds.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
View the remaining medieval towers that once numbered over 100, dominating Pavia's skyline during its powerful era. You'll discover remnants of the city's fortified past when noble families competed to build the tallest structures.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Walk through Pavia's main square surrounded by colourful medieval buildings, arcades, and café terraces. You'll experience the vibrant heart of the city where locals have gathered for commerce and community for centuries.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Marvel at the massive Renaissance cathedral featuring the fourth-largest dome in Italy, a stunning architectural achievement. You'll explore the magnificent interior where even Leonardo da Vinci contributed design ideas to this ambitious project.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Step inside this beautiful Romanesque basilica to admire stunning 1100s frescoes depicting medieval Pavia along the Ticino River. You'll see rare historic views of the city painted by artists who lived during its golden age.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Explore this magnificent Romanesque church where Holy Roman Emperor Frederick Barbarossa was crowned King of Italy in 1155. You'll walk through the sacred space that witnessed one of medieval Europe's most significant coronation ceremonies.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Cross this picturesque covered bridge spanning the Ticino River, rebuilt in the 1950s to match its medieval predecessor. You'll hear the legendary story of how the Archangel Michael outwitted the devil at this very spot.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Pass the remaining ruins of the original medieval covered bridge destroyed during World War II bombing. You'll see haunting remnants of the historic crossing that connected Pavia's two riverbanks for centuries.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
View this medieval city gate that once controlled access to Pavia through its defensive walls. You'll discover how this ancient entrance protected the city during its time as a fortified capital.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Admire this charming sculpture honouring the washerwomen who once worked along the Ticino River's banks. You'll learn about the everyday life and labor that sustained medieval Pavia's bustling riverside economy.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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