Palazzo Ducale Mantova - by Local Guide Tiziana Portioli
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Gonzaga's Residences tour. Mantua owes its beautiful Renaissance monuments to the Gonzaga Lords, who ruled the Mantuan Duchy for almost four centuries, and during their reign they made the city into a Court of grand splendor. The Gonzaga loved both luxury and power, and they lived in somptuous residences such as the huge Palazzo Ducale, their royal residence and the amazing Palazzo Te, intended as place of leisure and pleasure. The Ducal Palace with the gorgeous “Bridal Chamber” by Mantegna and the Te Palace by Giulio Romano’s genius, are some magnificent residences built by the Gonzagas, and an absolute must-see.
Available options
Guided Tour for Groups
Duration: 1 hour 39 minutes
Private Guided Tour
Duration: 1 hour 39 minutes
What's included
Private tour
Professional guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The Ducal Palace was the official and most significant residence of the Gonzaga Lords during their long rule. The guided tour of the present National Museum of Palazzo Ducale offers the visit of magnificent rooms, complex structures connected by corridors and galleries, squares, courtyards and several gardens. With more than 500 rooms it’s among the most extensive aristocratic palaces in Europe. It houses masterpieces of the 15th and 16th centuries such as Mantegna’s Bridal Chamber in the Castel of San Giorgio, the Hall of King Arthur’s Knights by Pisanello, the Isabella d’Este Apartment with its precious cabinetry works in the Old Court, Raphael’s complete cycle of woven Flemish tapestries, the Hall of Rivers close to a rare hanging garden, and the amazing Hall of Mirrors.
What's not included
Transportation to/from attractions
Entrance ticket for the Ducal palace € 15,00/each.
Palazzo Ducale di Mantova
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Tickets for Palazzo Ducale: https://bit.ly/tickets-ducale-mn
Meeting point
Meeting Point at Palazzo Ducale Ticket Office (Arcades)
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
