This image is on holiday
Cremona
Under two hours from Milan, here bikes clatter along the cobbles as locals sip espressos in the town square. Home to 164 violin workshops, Cremona has a history of craftsmanship with professional musicians travelling there from around the world to commission local artisans to make bespoke violins. On average, a violin maker will only make 10 violins a year because the process is so time consuming - and the instrument will last a lifetime. As for sightseeing, head up the brick bell tower (the tallest in Europe) for views of the town and crowds flocking below. Here you'll find a handful of good restaurants, such as the appropriately named Il Violino which serves up four different types of risotto in spacious, deep-blue surrounds.
Where to stay: A 30-minute drive from Cremona, Villa Bottini is a 19th-century delight fit with huge iron beds and high ceilings. In the best rooms, guests are treated to views of mulberry or magnolia trees lining the park, which also features a lemon house and swimming pool.
The scene when: the family are relaxing in the villa, which is located just north of Cremona. Unfortunately the property is privately owned but it is currently for sale for €1.7 million for any super fans with cash to burn.