Mantova Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local
Active
5h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
If you're looking for a fun and curious way to visit Mantova, you've come to the right place! With this digital guide created with the support of a local, you will be able to visit all the most important monuments at your own pace. You'll get to know the stories and curiosities of Mantova! But also you will discover everything about local foods, Italian Aperitivo in authentic local restaurants, and much more! What are you waiting for?
Available options
Mantova Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local
What's included
Best advices for local restaurant with authentic food
Text in different laguages (Eng, Ger, Esp, Ita, Fr)
Tips for monuments, history and curiosities
Digital guide to visit the city by yourself
Audio-guide in multiple languages (Eng, Esp, Ita, Ger)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Palazzo Te is a historic residence located in Mantua and its considered one of the masterpieces of Italian Mannerism. Known for its extraordinary architecture and historical-artistic importance. It was commissioned by Federico II Gonzaga.
Ticket cost: 15€
2
The Loggia delle Pescherie in Mantua is a historic building located along the Rio, near the Piazza delle Erbe. These “Pescherie” were connected to the “Beccherie” or the area where animals were slaughtered.
3
Stop 3
Piazza delle Erbe is one of the most striking and historically significant squares in Mantua, located in the heart of the city’s historic center. The square is surrounded by historic buildings with arcades and loggias, creating a unique and characteristic atmosphere.
4
The clock tower is named after the clock made by Bartolomeo Manfredi, who was known for his astrological clock showing the phases of the moon, zodiac signs as well as marking the rising and setting of the sun and indicating the influence of the stars at different times of the day.
Ticket cost: 3€
5
The Rotonda di San Lorenzo it is a significant example of Lombard Romanesque architecture. The rotunda built around the Holy Sepulcher, thus ideally connected to the relic of the Blood of Christ.
6
he Basilica of St. Andrew is surely one of the most important churches for Catholic belief, for it is here that one of the most important relics of Christianity is found, the blood of Jesus Christ (Precious Blood) collected at the foot of the Cross by St. Longinus and preserved in the so-called ‘Sacred Vases.
7
The Bibiena Scientific Theater, also known as the Teatro Accademico, is one of Mantua’s architectural and cultural jewels. Built in the 18th century, it is famous for its extraordinary beauty and perfect acoustics, and is considered one of the most fascinating theaters in Italy.
Ticket cost: 2€.
8
Here we are in the biggest and most important square in Mantua! Over the centuries, Piazza Sordello has been the center of Mantua’s political, religious and social life. Major public ceremonies, festivals, and markets were held here.
9
Also known as St. Peter’s Cathedral, it is one of the city’s most significant and impressive monuments. The origins of Mantua Cathedral date back to the early Christian era, with the first structures built around the 5th century.
10
Stop 10
The building that most represents the power of the Gonzaga family that lived and ruled the city from 1328 to 1707. It is one of the largest court palaces in Europe with over 500 (!!) rooms covering about 34000 square meters.
It includes the "San Giorgio Castle", "Corte Nuova" and "Corte Vecchia".
Ticket cost: 15€
What's not included
Palazzo Te ticket (not mandatory): 15€
Teatro Scientifico del Bibiena Ticket (not mandatory): 2€
Clock Tower Ticket (not mandatory): 3€
Palazzo Ducale Ticket (not mandatory): 15€
Available languages
Audio guide
DE
EN
IT
ES
Written guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
18 reviews
5★
17
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
You will need a smartphone with internet connection to use the digital guide (details to activate the digital guide will be in your voucher, read it carefully!)
You'll be able to hear the audio through your speakers or, if you have them, through your headphones
Meeting point
Our tour begins at one of the most important palaces in the city! There is an entrance fee (ticket not included) but it is really worth it!
Important notes
⚠️TO ACTIVATE YOUR TOUR⚠️ you can click here: https://www.walkingcap.com/mantovadigitalguide/
(If you can't click on the link, just copy/paste it in your browser)
Password: 287230223
If you need some support (or you can't login) check the FAQ here: https://walkingcap.com/faq
Or contact me on whatsapp here: +390350311698
or with this link: https://wa.me/message/JSWUDT7IX3WTA1
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
Instant confirmation
