How to Plan Your Mantua Old City Centre Walking Tour

Mantua is a beautiful town located in Northern Italy, known for its rich cultural history and stunning architecture. One of the best ways to discover the hidden gems of Mantua is by taking a walking tour. The Mantua Old City Centre Walking Tour is an excellent way to explore this UNESCO world heritage site. In this post, we will provide you with all the essential information you need to plan your visit to Mantua.

Tour Overview

The Mantua Old City Centre Walking Tour is a guided walking tour that takes you through the heart of the city. Your knowledgeable guide will take you to some of the top attractions in Mantua, including the Ducal Palace and Piazza Broletto. The tour is an excellent way to discover the rich history of the city and learn more about its unique architecture.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes only the guided service. Your tour guide is a professional who will provide you with information and insight into the history of Mantua. However, please note that entrance tickets to some attractions are not included in the tour price. For instance, a ticket to the Theatre Bibiena will cost you €200, and entrance to the Ducal Palace will cost €1200 for each person over the age of 18. People under 18 can enter the palace for free.

Tour Schedule

From March to June and from September to October, reservations are required, so please plan accordingly if you’re interested in this period. Please remember to arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the scheduled tour start time.

How to Book

Booking the Mantua Old City Centre Walking Tour is easy, and you can use this link to book the tour here. The process is simple, and you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details once you’ve completed the booking process.

Tour Itinerary

The Old City Centre Walking Tour will take you to some of the best sights that Mantua has to offer. Below is the detailed itinerary of the tour:

1. Piazza Mantegna

The tour will start in Piazza Mantegna, located in the heart of the city. This is one of the most popular spots in Mantua, and you’ll be able to see a fantastic sculpture by Andrea Mantegna.

2. Basilica of Sant’Andrea

Next, you’ll visit the Basilica of Sant’Andrea, which is one of the most significant churches in Mantua. The basilica is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning frescoes and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

3. Palazzo Ducale

The tour will then take you to Palazzo Ducale, which is currently home to the Museo Ducal. You’ll be able to see the famous Neptune Fountain and the beautiful courtyard, which is an excellent example of Renaissance architecture.

4. Piazza Broletto

You’ll then visit Piazza Broletto, which is one of the oldest squares in Mantua. The square is home to some of the most stunning architecture in the city, including the Palazzo del Podesta and the Torre dell’Orologio.

5. Teatro Scientifico Bibiena

The tour will conclude at the Teatro Scientifico Bibiena. This stunning theatre was built in the late 18th century and is considered one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in the world. Please note that a separate ticket is required to enter the theatre.

Final Thoughts

The Mantua Old City Centre Walking Tour is an excellent way to discover the hidden gems of this beautiful Italian town. With a professional guide to lead the way, you’ll be able to explore the top attractions and learn more about Mantua’s unique history and architecture. Make sure to book your spot today and prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience!

Frequently Asked Questions about Mantua, Italy

1. Where is Mantua located?

Mantua is a city located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. It is located about 135 kilometers southeast of Milan, and 35 kilometers west of Verona.

2. What is the history of Mantua?

Mantua has a rich history dating back to the Etruscan era. In the Middle Ages, it was an important city-state and cultural center. During the Renaissance, it was ruled by one of Italy’s most powerful families, the Gonzagas. Mantua was also the birthplace of many famous artists and musicians, including Andrea Mantegna and Claudio Monteverdi.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Mantua?

Mantua is home to many stunning attractions, including:

• The Ducal Palace: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the palace is a spectacular example of Renaissance architecture.
• The Basilica di Sant’Andrea: This beautiful church was designed by the famous Renaissance architect, Leon Battista Alberti.
• Palazzo Te: Another magnificent palace built by the Gonzagas, Palazzo Te is famous for its stunning frescoes.
• The Rotonda di San Lorenzo: This beautiful church was designed by the famous Renaissance architect, Leon Battista Alberti.

4. What is the food like in Mantua?

Mantuan cuisine is known for its delicious traditional dishes, including:

• Tortelli di zucca: A type of pasta filled with pumpkin, amaretti biscuits and mostarda di Mantova.
• Riso alla pilota: A risotto dish made with salami, lard and Grana Padano cheese.
• Stracotto d’asino: Slow-cooked donkey meat with red wine, garlic and bay leaves.
• Bomboloni: Delicious Italian doughnuts that are filled with jam, Nutella, or chocolate.

5. What are the best times of year to visit Mantua?

The best times of year to visit Mantua are in the spring (April-June) and fall (September-November). During these months, the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. However, if you don’t mind crowds, the summer months (July-August) can be a great time to visit Mantua for its festivals and events.

6. What festivals and events are held in Mantua?

Mantua hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including:

• Festivaletteratura: A literary festival held each September with book readings, seminars, and workshops.
• Palio di San Giorgio: A traditional horse race held in April each year to celebrate the city’s patron saint.
• International Festival of Chamber Music: A music festival held each September that attracts top musicians from around the world.

7. What are some day trips from Mantua?

There are many beautiful towns and cities within easy reach of Mantua, including:

• Verona: Just 35 kilometers east of Mantua is the beautiful city of Verona, famous for its Roman Arena and connection to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.
• Brescia: About 80 kilometers west of Mantua is the historic city of Brescia, known for its Renaissance architecture and Roman ruins.
• Lake Garda: Just a short drive from Mantua is beautiful Lake Garda, known for its stunning scenery, charming lakeside towns, and delicious cuisine.

8. How do I get to Mantua?

The closest airports to Mantua are Verona Villafranca Airport and Brescia Montichiari Airport, which are both about 30-40 kilometers away. From there, you can take a train or bus to Mantua. Alternatively, you can drive to Mantua from Milan or Venice in about two hours.

Book Your Tour Now

Mantua is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, art, culture, and great food. With its stunning architecture, beautiful churches, and delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this charming Italian city. Plan your trip today and discover all that Mantua has to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Mantua

Mantua, a city in Lombardy, Italy, is a popular tourist destination for its beautiful architecture, art, and historical significance. If you are planning to visit Mantua, here is a guide to help you make the most of your time.

1. Explore the Palazzo Ducale

The Palazzo Ducale, or Ducal Palace, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a notable landmark of Mantua. Built in the 14th and 15th centuries, this palace served as the residence of Gonzaga family, who ruled Mantua from 1328 to 1708. You can explore its various courtyards, rooms, and galleries to admire the beautiful frescoes, paintings, and sculptures.

2. Visit the Basilica di Sant’Andrea

The Basilica di Sant’Andrea is a 16th-century basilica in Mantua dedicated to Saint Andrew, the patron saint of the city. Its unique design combines Renaissance, Baroque, and Gothic elements, and features works of famous artists like Luca Fancelli, Giulio Romano, and Andrea Mantegna. You can also climb to the top of its bell tower for a panoramic view of the city.

3. Walk Around the Piazza delle Erbe

The Piazza delle Erbe is a lively square in the heart of Mantua, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can admire the colorful buildings, the statue of the poet Virgil, and the medieval clock tower. This is also a great place to stop for a gelato or a coffee and soak up the atmosphere.

4. Visit the Teatro all’Antica

The Teatro all’Antica is a 16th-century theater in Mantua, considered one of the oldest surviving indoor theaters in the world. Built in the shape of a horseshoe, its auditorium is decorated with lavish frescoes and can seat up to 400 people. You can attend a performance or take a guided tour to learn about its history and architecture.

5. Explore the Palazzo Te

The Palazzo Te is a Renaissance palace in Mantua, built for Federico II Gonzaga, a patron of the arts. It features a magnificent central courtyard, decorated with allegorical frescoes, and several rooms with elaborate decorations, including the famous Room of the Giants. This palace also hosts various cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year.

6. Visit the Ducal Gardens

The Ducal Gardens are a vast park surrounding the Palazzo Ducale, with manicured lawns, fountains, and sculptures. You can take a leisurely stroll or a bike ride, have a picnic, or enjoy the views of the nearby lakes. This is also a popular spot for locals to relax and unwind.

7. Discover the Rotonda di San Lorenzo

The Rotonda di San Lorenzo is a 11th-century church in Mantua, famous for its unique round shape and the Romanesque architecture. It houses several interesting artworks and artifacts, including a sarcophagus of Countess Matilda of Tuscany.

8. Taste the Local Cuisine

Mantua is renowned for its traditional cuisine, which includes dishes like tortelli di zucca (pumpkin ravioli), sbrisolona (crumbly cake), and risotto alla pilota (rice cooked with meat broth and grated cheese). You can try them at one of the many local restaurants or trattorias, accompanied by local wines like Lambrusco and Sangiovese.

Book Your Tour Now

Mantua is a charming city with a rich heritage and plenty of things to see and do. By following this guide, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Mantua and create unforgettable memories. Don’t forget to take lots of photos and share them with your friends and family!