Mantua City Centre Walking Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Guided walking tour in Mantua with a friendly, English-speaking local guide. Food, art, nature and a welcoming atmosphere; that’s what makes Mantua one of the best cities to visit in Italy. Discover the Gonzaga family's incredible legacy, where Shakespeare’s Romeo was banished, Verdi’s Rigoletto was set and Opera was born. Discover an amazing Unesco World Heritage Site and the reason why the greatest Italian Renaissance writer, Torquato Tasso, wrote “...Mantua is a magnificent town, worth a thousand mile travel to see it...”
Available options
Mantua City Centre Walking Tour
What's included
Professional guide
private tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Mantua is a little breathtaking gem; little known or barely remembered before, loved afterwards. The beauty of Mantua, however, is not only in its magnificent buildings but also in the beautiful squares and the charming alleys, lined with arcades and pretty houses. Mantua is small but spectacular and surrounded by beautiful natural environment where art, nature, cultural heritage, great food and overall good living aim for making life sweeter.
The city centre tour starts in Sordello Square. Sordello Square is a huge square surronded by some of the most important monuments of the city like the Ducal Palace, the Cathedral and the Bishop's seat. From Sordello Square we can access some squares and gardens beloging to the Ducal Palace like Piazza Castello, Piazza Santa Barbara, Piazza Paccagnini and Piazza Pallone
2
Broletto Square, the political square in medieval times, is surrounded by some communal buildings built in the 13th century like Palazzo del Podesta and Palazzo del Massaro. The square was also the place for execution, it is still possible to see the four iron rings used for torturing people.
3
Stop 3
Piazza delle Erbe, bordered by the ancient Palazzo del Podesta to the north and the Palazzo della Ragione (court of justice) to the east, takes its name from the medieval fruit and vegetable market. The square is flanked by the typical porticos (arcades), the clock tower, with a 15th century astrolabe, and the Romanesque church of San Lorenzo
4
On Piazza Mantegna stands the Basilica of Sant’Andrea, a masterpiece of Leon Battista Alberti, one of the fathers of the Renaissance architecture. The square is the right place to admire its beautiful Renaissance façade
5
The Basilica of Sant'Andrea is still considered to be one of Alberti's most complete works and one of the greatest works of Renaissance architecture of the 15th century in Northern Italy. The façade, made up of classical architectural elements, conceals a single nave with barrel vaults and trompe-l'oeil painted walls. The first chapel on the left contains the tomb of Andrea Mantegna
6
The portion of the cloister that closes Piazza L.B. Alberti is the only remaining part of the Benedictine monastery complex destroyed when the new Basilica of Sant’Andrea was built
What's not included
Transportation to/from attractions
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
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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
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Price is for 1 to 10 travelers
Children must be accompanied by an adult
A dress code is required to enter places of worship. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed
Meeting point
Rigoletto's house at Piazza Sordello 23. The house is located at the corner of the square at the end of a row of houses behind the Duomo of Saint Peter.
Important notes
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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
