Small Group Market tour and Cooking class in Mantua
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Italy has a vast and varied culinary heritage, and our local hosts are proud to share its hidden secrets.
Share your passion for Italian gastronomy with other lovely guests, immerse yourself in the vibrant local market and enjoy an authentic hands-on cooking class.
You'll visit the local market with your Cesarina host, who will teach you all about how to select the best ingredients with the seasons. Then, you'll return to their home, warm up with an Italian Aperitivo and enjoy the class. You'll learn how to make one iconic Pasta type, typical of the city you are visiting, and the famous Tiramisu.
After the class, you will enjoy everything you've prepared with local wines.
This experience is the perfect choice if you want to encounter the real Italian regional gastronomy through genuine connections, food, and friendship.
Available options
Small Group Market tour and Cooking class in Mantua
Market + masterclass + dinner
What's included
All Fees and Taxes
Official ‘Cesarine’ apron
Learn to make 1 iconic Pasta type
Italian Aperitivo: Prosecco and nibbles
Tasting session: enjoy everything you've prepared with wine, beverages and coffee included
Share your passion for the Italian cuisine with other lovely guests
Local market tour
Learn to make the famous Tiramisu
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Meeting point
The meeting point of this experience will be our Cesarina home. For privacy reasons, you will receive the full address of your Cesarina host after you have booked. We will contact you after you've booked to match you up with your ideal Cesarina based on what you are looking for.
Important notes
Please specify if you have any food intolerance/allergy at the time of booking or email at
booking@cesarine.com with your booking ref. Our team will contact you after you've booked to match you up with your host and providing you with the full address.
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
