Mantua and Cremona: Art, Nature and Local Traditions

Arrival in Desenzano del Garda

Travel comfortably to Desenzano del Garda by train, with high-speed connections available from Italy’s main cities. After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day is free to explore the historic centre, stroll along the lakeside and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this elegant town on the shores of Lake Garda.

Parco Giardino Sigurtá & Sirmione

Explore the Sigurtà Garden Park, one of Italy’s most beautiful historic gardens, with its winding paths, lawns and colourful flower gardens. The park lies in Valeggio sul Mincio, where you can also discover Borghetto sul Mincio, one of Italy’s most charming villages, with its old watermills and picturesque riverside setting. Enjoy lunch in Valeggio, famous for its tortellini, before continuing to Sirmione for a stroll through its picturesque historic centre and along the shores of Lake Garda.

Mantova, la Gonzaga family’s town

Travel by train to Mantua and discover the heart of the Gonzaga family’s town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your visit includes the Ducal Palace and the famous Bridal Chamber, Andrea Mantegna’s masterpiece. You can also enjoy a boat trip on Mantua’s three lakes, offering a different perspective of the city and its surrounding landscape. Before leaving, visit Palazzo Te, the elegant Renaissance villa commissioned by Federico II Gonzaga, with its magnificent frescoes and large garden, once a place where the Gonzaga family came to relax.

Cremona and its violins

Travel by train to Cremona and discover the town on a guided tour of its historic centre, from Piazza del Comune to the Cathedral and the famous Torrazzo. During lunch, you’ll have the chance to discover and taste some of the specialities of Cremonese cuisine. In the afternoon, visit a violin maker’s workshop to discover the centuries-old art of violin making, followed by some free time to explore the city at your own pace.

Departure

Your journey through Lake Garda, Mantua and Cremona comes to an end today. If you have more time available, we recommend extending your stay on Lake Garda and exploring its western shore, where historic lemon gardens bear witness to a unique agricultural tradition.

A perfect way to continue your journey at a leisurely pace, surrounded by landscapes, nature and local traditions.