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31 Available Tour Excursions in Mantua
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...”
Price: $126.15
Duration: 2 hours
Discover Mantua from a different perspective on sightseeing and scavenger hunt of the city. Solve riddles and clues that lead to the next location, showing all the city highlights. Solve interesting puzzles, have fun, and learn new things about the city. Explore the city and find hidden gems at your own pace. Try a new type of experience with your smartphone, the perfect mix between a walking tour, sightseeing, and a scavenger hunt. Enjoy the tour in English and Italian!
Price: $10.54
Duration: 2 hours
Your English-speaking driver will pick you up at your hotel in Verona and in about 30 minutes you will arrive to Valpolicella. First stop to Vogadori one of the best winery of the area. The tasting of Valpolicella and Amarone della Valpolicella wines will make you the flavors and aromas of this area, our cellar is the perfect setting: surrounded by vineyards, you will be accompanied to appreciate and discover Valpolicella with its wines. Then from Valpolicella your driver will take you to the discovery of Lake Garda, the largest of the Italian lakes. The intense color of the water, with a strong blue color and transparency which are hard to find, make Garda Lake a unique destination capable of hosting visitors and lovers for relaxing holidays, sport, entertainment and the joy in discover its many sites. Before returning to Verona, your driver will stop in Sirmione where you can taste a good Italian ice cream.
Price: $690.04
Duration: 6-8 hours
During this private tour the guide will accompany you to discover the splendid city of Mantua, one of the capitals of the Italian Renaissance. The tour will take place through the historic center, between the gardens of the Ducal residence of the Gonzaga lords, the magnificent Palazzo Ducale and the cathedral that overlook the cobblestones of Piazza Sordello, up to the fabulous lake.
Price: $180.21
Duration: 2 hours
Visit the vibrant local market and the traditional food shops with the Cesarina and immerse yourself in a private cooking class at the Cesarina's home, learn the secrets of the most famous dishes of cuisine from Mantua and taste the fruit of your labour accompanied by a glass of local wine. During the lesson the Cesarina will reveal the tricks of the trade of 3 authentic regional recipes. Have fun putting your cooking skills to the test. Each participant will have a workstation equipped with utensils and all the ingredients to make the dishes. Then, taste everything you have prepared accompanied by a selection of red and white local wines. Le Cesarine is Italy’s oldest network of 1000+ home cooks all over the country in more than 500 cities. They are passionate and welcoming hosts that open the doors of their own homes to curious travellers for immersive culinary experiences.
Price: $227.06
Duration: 4 hours
Immerse yourself in a private pasta-making class at a local's home, learn the secrets of the region's most famous pasta dishes and taste the fruit of your labour accompanied by a selection of local wine. During the lesson, the local home cook will reveal the tricks of the trade of 3 authentic regional pasta recipes. Have fun putting your cooking skills to the test. Each participant will have a workstation equipped with utensils and all the ingredients to make the dishes. Then, taste everything you have prepared accompanied by a selection of red and white local wines. This experience is held by Cesarine: Italy’s oldest network of 1000+ home cooks all over the country in more than 500 cities. They are passionate and welcoming hosts that open the doors of their own homes to curious travellers for immersive culinary experiences.
Price: $174.20
Duration: 3 hours
Gonzaga's Residences tour. Mantua owes its beautiful Renaissance monuments to the Gonzaga Lords, who ruled the Mantuan Duchy for almost four centuries, and during their reign they made the city into a Court of grand splendor. The Gonzaga loved both luxury and power, and they lived in somptuous residences such as the huge Palazzo Ducale, their royal residence and the amazing Palazzo Te, intended as place of leisure and pleasure. The Ducal Palace with the gorgeous “Bridal Chamber” by Mantegna and the Te Palace by Giulio Romano’s genius, are some magnificent residences built by the Gonzagas, and an absolute must-see.
Price: $163.23
Duration: 1 hours
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?
Price: $7.81
Duration: 5-6 hours
Mantua, 'the City on Water of the Gonzagas'. This tour's highlights: Piazza Sordello with Duomo, Bishop’s Palace, Palazzo Ducale with its courtyards and gardens, Piazza Broletto and Piazza Erbe with Palazzo Comunale and Palazzo della Ragione, Clock Tower, Rotonda of S. Lorenzo and Basilica of S. Andrea, Via Orefici with the Canal “Rio”. On request visit to the Academy Theatre (Teatro Bibiena) entrance ticket €. 2,00
Price: $216.25
Duration: 1 hours
Artistic hub in Mantua, that deserves to be suitably explained is Palazzo Te, a suburban villa devoted to the pleasures of leisure. Architect Giulio Romano, as the heir of his great master Raphael, is called from Rome to build and decorate this Renaissance villa between 1525 and 1535, inspired by ancient Roman villas. Palazzo Te is an exemplary model of the Mannerist style as about architecture and an outstanding example of 16th century Italian painting. The name of the building derives from that of the place where it was built: the “island of Tejeto”, abbreviated as “Te”, where mantuan Lords held the ducal stables for the breeding of famous Gonzaga thoroughbred trained for battlefields and tournaments.
Price: $156.18
Duration: 1 hours
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.
Price: $132.15
Duration: 3 hours
Passeggiata per le vie e le piazze di Mantova, scoprendo la sua storia e non solo monumenti importanti. Questo tour prevede la visita SOLO IN ESTERNO (strade e piazze), NON PREVEDE INGRESSI IN MUSEI O CHIESE ad eccezione della Basilica di S. Andrea ( se non ci sono funzioni in svolgimento e , ovviamente, se aperta). Walk through the streets and squares of Mantova, discovering its history and the most important monuments. This tour covers only the exteriors (streets and squares).
Price: $72.08
Duration: 1 hours
The city in the city, a symbol of the power and wealth of the Gonzagasch dynasty, hides within it small treasures, surprises, games and wonders that will amaze and fascinate you.
Price: $108.13
Duration: 2 hours
Are you looking for a way to see Mantua without joining a tour group? Explore at your own pace with this affordable walking tour. • See a wide range of architectural styles from the opulent residences of the ruling elite to the former Jewish ghetto on this stroll through the UNESCO recognised city centre • Hear from tour producer Mike Conradi, the creator of the "A History of Italy" podcast • Do it all in an hour or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish • Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it • Use the virtual tour option at home Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code. The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.
Price: $8.99
Duration: 1-1 hours
Journey to discover the "Villa degli Ozi", wanted by Federico II as a place of relaxation, quiet, fun and ... much more!
Price: $96.11
Duration: 1 hours
You can't visit Italy without trying at least one pasta dish... So, we'll teach you two! Learn how to roll 'sfoglia' (fresh pasta) by hand and how to prepare 2 simple different kinds of pasta (filled pasta + fresh pasta) from scratch with your Cesarina. As the icing on the cake you will learn to prepare also the iconic Tiramisu. Share your passion for the Italian cuisine as you make new friends in this hands-on cooking class. It's a great way to truly experience Italian culture. • Learn to roll 'sfoglia' (fresh pasta) by hand • Learn to make 2 iconic pasta types • Learn to make the iconic tiramisu • Small-group cooking class with a maximum of 12 people. Share your passion for the Italian cuisine with other lovely guests • Enjoy an Italian Aperitivo to warm-up Cesarine is Italy’s oldest network of home cooks all over the country. They are welcoming hosts that open the doors of their own homes to curious travellers for immersive culinary experiences.
Price: $118.94
Duration: 3 hours
The activity combines physical training, immersion in nature, discovery of the city of Mantua and relaxation. Parco del Mincio is a magical place that changes every season. The B & BCasanonni is the starting point located where the Mincio opens into Lake Superior, creating a unique habitat that hosts a very rich biodiversity protected by the Ansa e Valli del Mincio Nature Reserve. In particular we will observe the ISLAND OF THE RED HERONS. The habitat that will be observed is unique starting from the approach and immersion of the lotus flowers, skirting the island of the purple herons or also called heronry, then approaching wooded shores. Focus of interest: description of the humid environment, lotus flower characteristics, other aquatic plant species of interest, close-up observation of a heronry of red herons with the possibility of seeing the nests built on the gray willow islands or on the reeds.
Price: $48.06
Duration: 2 hours
Localgrapher is the largest network of professional photographers and videographers with more than 600 destinations around the globe! Book your private photographer and guide in Mantova to capture your picture-perfect moments while visiting amazing sites! SOLO TRAVELERS Fancy an insta-perfect photoshoot from your Mantova vacation? Localgrapher has years of experience with fashion and solo travel photography! Make your memories last a lifetime and share them on social media or display them in your home to receive an avalanche of compliments. COUPLES If you are about to propose to your loved one, honeymooning or just exploring what Mantova has to offer, put the selfie stick aside and let Localgrapher’s superb photographers take care of the photos for you both. FAMILIES & GROUPS A family trip, wedding, bachelorette party or grand get-together? Forget missing someone from pictures, we’ll capture them all!
Price: $300.35
Duration: 0 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: EUR
- Languages: Italian, English, German, French
- Climate: Continental
- Timezone: Europe/Rome
- Population: Approximately 48,000 residents
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit Mantua is from April to June or September to October when the weather is mild.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from the EU, UK, US, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter Italy visa-free for short stays up to 90 days. For longer stays or other nationalities, a Schengen visa is required. E-visa options are not available for Italy. Visa on arrival is generally not available. Visitors should have a valid passport, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds.
About Mantua
Mantua is a captivating city in northern Italy, renowned for its rich Renaissance heritage and stunning lakeside setting. Surrounded by three artificial lakes created in the Middle Ages, Mantua offers a unique blend of natural beauty and architectural grandeur. The city’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting elegant palaces, medieval walls, and artistic treasures. Visitors are drawn to Mantua for its well-preserved cultural landmarks, vibrant arts scene, and tranquil atmosphere away from the more crowded Italian tourist hubs. Its connection to the Gonzaga family, who ruled Mantua for centuries, is evident in the lavish palaces and art collections. The city’s blend of history, art, and serene lakeside views makes it a compelling destination for travelers seeking an authentic Italian experience with a touch of Renaissance splendor.
Mantua Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Lombardy
- Duration Range: 2 to 10 hours
- Group Size: Private or shared tours
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced
- Recommended For: The best time to visit Mantua is from April to June or September to October when the weather is mild. Pack comfortable walking shoes and layers for variable temperatures. Respect local customs such as greeting with a polite “buongiorno” and dressing modestly when visiting churches. Mantua is generally safe, but usual precautions apply. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases and markets.
Average Tour Price: $80
Lowest Price Tour: $39
Highest Price Tour: $180
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Palazzo Ducale – A vast complex of palaces and courtyards, home to exquisite frescoes and the famous Camera degli Sposi. 2. Palazzo Te – A masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and decoration, known for its stunning frescoes and elegant gardens. 3. Basilica di Sant’Andrea – An impressive Renaissance church designed by Leon Battista Alberti, housing important religious relics. 4. Piazza delle Erbe – The lively main square surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and markets, perfect for soaking in local life. 5. Lago di Mezzo – The central lake offering scenic views, boat rides, and peaceful walking paths around the city.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy guided tours of Mantua’s historic sites and museums, boat trips on the surrounding lakes, and cycling along scenic routes. Cultural experiences include attending concerts, art exhibitions, and the annual Festivaletteratura. Food lovers can take cooking classes to learn traditional Mantuan recipes. Walking and photography are popular ways to explore the city’s charming streets and waterfronts. Seasonal events and markets also provide authentic local experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Mantuan cuisine is rich and hearty, featuring specialties like tortelli di zucca (pumpkin-filled pasta), risotto alla pilota (a rice dish with pork sausage), and sbrisolona (a crumbly almond cake). The food culture emphasizes fresh, local ingredients and traditional recipes passed down through generations. Dining customs are relaxed, with meals often enjoyed slowly accompanied by local wines. Noteworthy restaurants include Osteria dell’Oca and Trattoria La Grotta, both praised for authentic regional dishes.
Getting Around
Mantua is accessible by train from major Italian cities such as Milan, Verona, and Venice. The nearest airports are Verona Villafranca and Milan Linate. Within the city, walking is the best mode of transport due to the compact historic center. Buses are available for reaching outer neighborhoods. Taxi services and bike rentals are also options. Costs for local transport are moderate, with many attractions within easy walking distance.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit Mantua is from April to June or September to October when the weather is mild. Pack comfortable walking shoes and layers for variable temperatures. Respect local customs such as greeting with a polite “buongiorno” and dressing modestly when visiting churches. Mantua is generally safe, but usual precautions apply. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases and markets.
Culture & Customs
Mantua’s culture reflects its Renaissance heritage and strong community traditions. Social interactions are warm and formal greetings are appreciated. The city hosts several festivals, including the Festivaletteratura and the Palio di San Giorgio, a historic horse race. Visitors should observe etiquette such as punctuality for appointments and modest attire in religious sites. Sharing meals and participating in local events offer insight into Mantuan customs.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
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Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..