Here is a list of sights to see in Pavia:
Ponte Coperto and Strada Nuova
Castello Visconteo (with Civic Museum)
Basilica di San Pietro in Ciel d’Oro
Basilica di San Michele Maggiore
The historic seat of the University of Pavia (where the conference is held)
Certosa di Pavia (8km from the city center, bus 93/175 from the bus station)