Mantua in 5 days
Five days from city to territory, discovering Mantua through history, water, villages and traditions.
The grand Mantua of the Gonzaga
The journey begins in the monumental heart of the city. Piazza Sordello opens the door to the vast world of Palazzo Ducale, the Castle of San Giorgio and Andrea Mantegna’s celebrated Camera degli Sposi. After the visit, Mantua starts telling its story through food as well. In the afternoon the route continues to Palazzo Te, where Giulio Romano’s visionary language changes the atmosphere completely: the Chamber of the Giants and the Chamber of Cupid and Psyche turn the visit into an immersive experience. The day can end with a walk and a Mantuan dinner.
The heart of Mantua, step by step
The second day is devoted to the historic centre at a slower pace. From Mantua Cathedral and Piazza Sordello, continue through Piazza Broletto to Piazza delle Erbe, with the Clock Tower, the Rotonda di San Lorenzo and Casa del Mercante. A few steps away stands the great Basilica of Sant’Andrea. The route may continue to the Bibiena Scientific Theatre, the Rio canal and Giulio Romano’s Pescherie. If opening times allow, the Historic Fire Brigade Museum can be added. Then leave space for a café, a shop, a slice of Sbrisolona and the pleasure of simply being in the city.
Mantua’s soul of water
After palaces and squares, the third day changes perspective. A boat trip on the Mincio reveals Mantua from the water, among lakes, reed beds and natural landscapes. In summer, when the season allows, the lotus flowers make the scenery even more distinctive. The day can continue with local flavours such as pike in sauce with polenta and a visit to the Francesco Gonzaga Diocesan Museum.
Sabbioneta, the ideal city
The fourth day heads beyond Mantua to Sabbioneta, the other half of the Mantua and Sabbioneta UNESCO site. It is a Renaissance idea turned into a city: the Teatro all’Antica, Ducal Palace, Garden Palace and the extraordinary Galleria degli Antichi.
Grazie: faith, water and traditions
This day is dedicated to Grazie di Curtatone and the Mincio wetlands. Inside the sanctuary, the polychrome votive figures and the famous crocodile suspended from the nave create an unforgettable atmosphere. Outside, the village tells the story of the Madonnari chalk artists, while the landscape opens onto water and nature.
This itinerary is only the starting point.
Visits, guides, accommodation, meals, experiences and transport can all be changed. We do not publish a standard price: your proposal is built around the way you want to experience Mantua.
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