Half-day Guided tour of Mantua City Centre and Ducal Palace
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Mantua, Unesco World Heritage Site since 2008 and 2016 Italian capital of culture. Join this engaging 3-hours tour and explore Mantua city centre and the Ducal Palace, one of Italy's greatest treasures, with a professional private local guide. Mantua surprises its visitors by her exceptional character: Small but spectacular, from every corner the city of Mantua offers an encounter with history and beauty. Visit Mantua, where artistic wonders, great food and sheer beauty conspire to make life sweeter.
Available options
Half-day Guided tour of Mantua City Centre and Ducal Palace
What's included
Private tour
Professional guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Declared World Heritage site by UNESCO, Mantua is home to Palazzo Ducale (Ducal Palace) built by the Gonzagas who became one of Italy's leading Renaissance families. Symbol of Mantua, this 35,000-sq-metre palace is made of buildings, galleries, inner courts, gardens and a castle. Even if it is famous for Mantegna's frescos in the Camera degli Sposi (Bridal chamber), it also boasts many other architectural and painted elements.
2
The castle’s greatest treasures are tucked away inside, like the Camera Picta (The bridal chamber). This room was turned into a work of art realized by Andrea Mantegna, one of the most important Reinassence painter. The stunning frescoes give visitors the impression of being in an open portico overlooking the beautiful countryside.
3
Piazza Sordello is a large square surronded by some of the most important historic buildings of the city like the Ducal Palace, the cathedral and the Bishop's seat
4
This was the medieval political square where the communal palaces were build like the old town hall and the Massaro's seat. Under the big arch it is possible to see the 4 iron rings used for torturing
5
Stop 5
Bordered by the rear facade of the medieval town hall to the north and the Palazzo di Giustizia (courthouse) to the east, this square, named after the medieval fruit and vegetable market, is also dominated by a 15 century astrolabe and the romanesque church of Saint Laurence
6
Planned by Leon Battista Alberti It is one of the major works of 15th-century Renaissance architecture in Northern Italy. The façade made up of clasical architectural features conceals a single nave with barrel vaulting and walls painted in trompe-I'oeil. The first chapel on the left contains the tomb of Andrea Mantegna.
What's not included
Entrance ticket for Ducal Palace + castle € 15,00/ea.
Transportation to/from attractions
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
VERY IMPORTANT: Ducal palace ticket price is not included in the tour price. Due to quota entry ticket booking is higly recommended. In high tourist season you really risk not to enter the castle. When you book the tour pls send an email to the guide, she will provide you all infos about the ticket booking.
Meeting point
Address: at Rigoletto's House (Casa di Rigoletto) entrance
Important notes
• A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
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
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