Mantua is a unique and magical city, rich in architectural beauty and enchanting scenic views, so much so that a lifetime wouldn't be enough to stop marveling at its wonders. This Lombard city, not far from the borders with Veneto and Emilia Romagna, rises on the banks of the Mincio River, on a peninsula surrounded by three lakes, the Upper, the Lower, and the Middle Lake. In 2016, it was the Italian Capital of Culture, but already in 2008 the entire city had become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
With such an introduction, you can imagine how difficult it is to make a short list of things to do in Mantua in just two days. So, we have selected for you some of the most characteristic places and the most beautiful experiences not to be missed in the splendid city of the Gonzagas!
What to Do in Mantua: Must-See Places
Choosing only a few of Mantua’s historic buildings was difficult, but we have selected the places that best tell the city’s history and that preserve some of the most majestic works ever created here.
Ducal Palace
On the shores of the Lower Lake stands the splendid complex of the Ducal Palace, a true palace made up of over 500 rooms where the Gonzaga family lived, with varying fortunes, between the 1300s and 1700s. The palace as we know it today is a must-see during your two days in Mantua, especially at sunset, when the city lights up. In the spring and summer months, lotus flowers bloom on the water’s surface for a truly unique and special spectacle.
Cruise on the Mincio River and Lakes
With so much water around, cruises on the lakes and the Mincio River are a must. There are many agencies organizing these experiences, offering a variety of services and types of boats, from simple boats to motor ships. Cruises can last from one to five hours depending on the chosen route: you can circumnavigate the city or go upriver along the Mincio up to the lock with the Po River..
A Culinary Stop
A food stop is never missing on any trip, and Mantua has a lot to offer on this front as well. The typical ingredient of Mantuan cuisine is pumpkin, used in both savory and sweet dishes, and the dish that will truly let you know and love the city is the pumpkin tortelli, indispensable and delicious.
Another dish you can find only in this city is the Pilota risotto, made with Vialone Nero, a particular type of rice, along with pork sausage and Grana Padano cheese.
To complete the meal, don’t forget the Sbrisolona cake, a shortcrust pastry with almonds and hazelnuts whose main characteristic is its crumbly texture, not smooth.
If you enjoyed our itinerary, take a look at other Meeters proposals: many trips throughout Italy, not only to art cities but also into nature or for relaxation, in the company of other travelers like you!