Cremona, Italy: Exploring the City of Antique Violins, Mustard Fruits, and Unanticipated Delights
Day Tripping in Cremona, Italy: A Surprisingly Delicious and visually Stunning Journey
I'll admit it, I wasn't too keen on visiting a violin museum on our final day of our Lombardy road trip. Cremona, a city in Italy that's earned a reputation for its stringed instruments, did seem a bit too niche for my taste. However, as Janet and I discovered, Cremona has far more to offer than just displays of global musical talent!
Still a bit skeptical, we entered Formaggi D'Italia, a local produce store. "Mostarda di Cremona," Elena from the tourist office had mentioned, and I wasn't sure what we were in for. Turns out, this local specialty contains candied fruit coated in a mustard-flavored syrup! It was surprisingly delightful, even before noon. Cremona was shaping up to be a day full of surprises!
The small city, sitting close to the border with Emilia Romagna, was a charming mix of both regions' architectural influences. Porticos led to small squares filled with local restaurants, all leading to the main square where the stunning Cathedral stood proud.
The Torrazzo, a 16th-century bell tower connected to the Cathedral, is Cremona's icon. Its 110-meter height makes it the third tallest brick tower in the world, and the climb is worth it for breathtaking views of Lombardy and Emilia Romagna.
The Cathedral is a stunning example of Romanesque art and has an interesting history. An earthquake caused damage soon after construction started in the 1100s, but the Cathedral was eventually completed 60 years later with various extensions and additions. The interior artwork is a marvel, with the story of Mary and Christ depicted in frescoes.
Other points of interest in Cremona include an astronomical clock attached to the tower and the impressive-looking Cremona Cathedral. Wandering the quaint, colorful streets revealed more delights: local producers, warm-hued houses, and welcoming coffee shops perfect for taking a break.
As the day wore on, the city took on a deserted feel, an unusual occurrence in late June. For those in the know, however, Cremona's appeal endures, especially for visitors who appreciate the slower Lombardy pace.
Pumpkin-stuffed pasta, Tortelli di Zucca, is a staple dish from nearby Mantua and can be found in Cremona as well. A delicious lunch quickly turned full-blown touristy as we sat down to enjoy ours at Ristorante Pizzeria Duomo Cremona, with the Cathedral front as our view.
For dessert, don't miss the Mousse di Torrone Cremonese, a dessert featuring Cremona's famous nougat!
While the Violin Museum may not have been my scene, Cremona's violin-making craft can't be ignored. The modern museum is well-equipped, with an audio guide tour showcasing violins by famous players and composers, but the costly entrance fee (€10) restricts interest to the passionate few.
A more engaging way to appreciate the artistry of Cremona's violin-making is by visiting an active workshop. Marianne Jost's workshop is one worth visiting. Each handmade violin takes upwards of three months to craft, and watching the intricate process gives a newfound respect for the artists who bring these instruments to life.
"I truly enjoyed that," I confessed to Janet as we returned to the car. Cremona, with its surprising flavors and passionate artists, won me over in the best possible ways.
Travel Essentials: Cremona
Budget-Friendly Accommodation
- L'Archetto: Offering both dorm and private rooms, this accommodation is a short walk from the city center. The clean, simple rooms get positive reviews, and the dorms aren't bunk beds, which is always a plus!
Luxury Stay
- Agriturismo Cascina Farisengo: Around four kilometers out from Cremona, this restored country house boasts a grand courtyard. Ideal for those seeking the relaxed Lombardy vibe during their vacation.
Transportation
- Driving from Milan takes approximately 90 minutes, and we found easy parking on a Sunday morning. Alternatively, direct trains run at just over an hour from Milano Centrale, though they are less frequent than the two-hour service with a connection in Treviglio.
Nearby Destinations
- Explore more of Lombardy with our guide on the area's top attractions[1][2][3][4].
Additional Information
- Detailed information on Cremona can be found on the Cremona InfoPoint and Lombardy Tourism websites.
Further Reading
- Best Things To Do in Italy: 12 Unforgettable Italian Experiences
- Italy off the Beaten Path: 25 Hidden Gems in Italy
- Visiting Cervia, Italy: Beaches, Canals, Seafood, and Storied Salt
- Day trips from Bologna: 16 best things to do in Emilia Romagna
- How To Spend a Weekend in Oviedo, Spain: Things To Do in Asturias' Capital
- Val di Non, Italy's Apple Eden Where The Fruit Isn't Forbidden
[1] Cremona Cathedral[2] Torrazzo Bell Tower[3] Cremona Baptistery[4] Piazza del Comune
The city of Cremona, with its intriguing mix of food-and-drink offerings and artistic home-and-garden craftsmanship, was more than just a surprising day trip. From the delightful local specialty, Mostarda di Cremona, to watching the intricate process of violin-making at Marianne Jost's workshop, the journey was a rich exploration of lifestyle and travel experiences.
