Mantua: Self-Guided Audio Tour to the City of Lakes

Mantua , Italy

Mantua: Self-Guided Audio Tour to the City of Lakes

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(4 reviews)

1h - 1h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Are you looking for a way to see Mantua without joining a tour group? Explore at your own pace with this affordable walking tour.

• See a wide range of architectural styles from the opulent residences of the ruling elite to the former Jewish ghetto on this stroll through the UNESCO recognised city centre
• Hear from tour producer Mike Conradi, the creator of the "A History of Italy" podcast
• Do it all in an hour or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish
• Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it
• Use the virtual tour option at home

Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code.

The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Available options

Mantua: Self-Guided Audio Tour to the City of Lakes

What's included

VoiceMap App for Android and iOS

Lifetime access to this tour in English

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Detailed itinerary

Part of the Ducal Palace, the official home to the ruling Gonzaga family for almost 380 years.

Stop 2 Pass by

The market square that highlights the traces of the powerful medieval Canossa family.

The oldest church in the city, Rotonda di San Lorenzo, which the Canossa family commissioned in the late 11th century.

A historical landmark best known as the city’s center for the Catholic Inquisition

The building that once housed the community’s rabbis in an area that was once large enough to have six synagogues

What's not included

Food/Drink

Smartphone and headphones

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 1.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note: You won't be guided through any museums or other attractions mentioned en route. If you choose to enter and visit such places, you'll need to pay for it independently of this tour.

Meeting point

Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Mantua

Mantua, known as Mantova in Italian, is a historic city in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. It is famous for its Renaissance palaces, art collections, and the romantic Mincio River that encircles the city. The city's well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture makes it a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts.

Top Attractions

Palazzo Ducale

The Ducal Palace is a grand Renaissance palace that was the residence of the Gonzaga family, who ruled Mantua for over 300 years. It houses an extensive art collection, including works by artists like Andrea Mantegna and Giulio Romano.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours €12

Piazza delle Erbe

Piazza delle Erbe is the main square of Mantua, surrounded by historic buildings and filled with cafes and restaurants. It is a lively spot for both locals and tourists, offering a glimpse into the city's daily life.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Free

Basilica di Sant'Andrea

The Basilica of Sant'Andrea is a beautiful Renaissance church that houses the tomb of Saint Andrew and the remains of the Gonzaga family. The church is known for its stunning architecture and artistic treasures.

Religious/Historical 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Lago di Mezzo

Lago di Mezzo is one of the three artificial lakes surrounding Mantua, created in the 12th century for defensive purposes. It is a peaceful spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic by the water.

Nature/Scenic 1-2 hours Free

Teatro Bibiena

Teatro Bibiena is a stunning 18th-century theater known for its exquisite Baroque architecture and acoustics. It is one of the most beautiful theaters in Italy and hosts opera and concert performances.

Cultural/Historical 1-2 hours €10-€50 (depending on performance)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tortelli di Zucca

A traditional Mantuan dish made with pumpkin-filled pasta, served with a butter and sage sauce

Main Course Vegetarian

Risotto alla Pilotta

A creamy risotto made with saffron, pumpkin, and Parmigiano Reggiano

Main Course Vegetarian

Busiata di Zucca

A sweet pumpkin dumpling served with a sugar and cinnamon sauce

Dessert Vegetarian

Salsiccia di Maiale

A savory pork sausage seasoned with garlic, fennel, and other herbs

Main Course Contains pork

Popular Activities

Hiking along the Mincio River Cycling around the city and surrounding areas Picnicking by Lago di Mezzo Strolling through the historic center Visiting museums and historic sites Attending opera and concert performances Boating on the Mincio River Ice skating in the city center during the winter months

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Mantua is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded. This is also the time when many cultural events and festivals take place.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Mantua is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it is important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Verona Villafranca Airport • 50 km

By train

Mantua Station

By bus

Mantua Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services throughout the city. Buses are a convenient way to get around, especially for reaching attractions outside the city center.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center San Giorgio Pradella

Day trips

Verona

50 km • Full day

Verona is a beautiful city known for its Roman amphitheater, the Arena, and its association with Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a wealth of history and culture.

Lake Garda

70 km • Full day

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and offers stunning natural beauty, charming towns, and a variety of outdoor activities. It is a popular destination for hiking, swimming, and boating.

Parma

100 km • Full day

Parma is a city known for its rich culinary traditions, including Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and Prosciutto di Parma. It is also home to a stunning cathedral and a historic opera house.

Festivals

Mantova Jazz Festival • July Mantova Literary Festival • May Festa di San Giorgio • April 23

Pro tips

Visit the Palazzo Ducale early in the morning to avoid crowds and long queues
Try the local specialty, Tortelli di Zucca, at a traditional osteria or trattoria
Explore the city on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and charming streets
Check the schedule for local festivals and events, such as the Mantova Jazz Festival and the Mantova Literary Festival
Take a day trip to nearby cities like Verona or Lake Garda for a change of pace and scenic beauty