Stag-tastic Mantua: A 3-Day Adventure of Culture and Fun

Unleash your inner party animal in the charming streets of Mantua!

28 August 2023

Mantua, located in northern Italy, offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and entertainment for a memorable stag do. Explore the city's rich Renaissance architecture and visit the stunning Palazzo Ducale, before indulging in the local cuisine at traditional trattorias. End the night with a vibrant bar crawl, as Mantua comes alive with its bustling nightlife and lively nightclubs.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Mamma Mia, Mantua!

  • Start your day with a stroll around Piazza Sordello, the beating heart of historical Mantua. Drink in the charming atmosphere while sipping a cappuccino at a sidewalk café.
  • Marvel at Palazzo Ducale, a majestic Renaissance palace fit for kings (or stag kings!). Take a guided tour to learn about its artistic treasures and scandalous stories.
  • Lunchtime! Head to Trattoria Dal 1952 for a gastronomic adventure. Munch on mouthwatering tortelli with pumpkin or indulge in a plate of savory ossobuco.
  • Boat time! Hop on a gondola and float along the romantic Rio Canal. It's like Venice, but without the tourist crowds – the perfect spot for some stag bonding and a cheeky prosecco.
  • For a taste of local culture, catch a performance at Teatro Bibiena. This charming theater is a true gem, hosting everything from classical concerts to experimental plays.
  • Time to chillax! Check into Hotel dei Gonzaga, a stylish boutique hotel with sleek decor and plush beds. Blow off steam in the on-site spa or raise a toast at the rooftop bar.
Day 2

Amped-up Adventurers in Art

  • Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Palazzo, located right next to the hotel. Snack on buttery croissants and sip on strong espresso – the perfect way to kickstart your day.
  • Visit the Palazzo Te, a stunning Renaissance villa bursting with artistic wonders. Explore the whimsical rooms adorned with frescoes, including the famous "Chamber of Giants."
  • Jump into some adrenaline-pumping action at Parco delle Bertone. Try your hand at go-kart racing or challenge your mates to a game of paintball – it's stag do shenanigans at its finest!
  • Recharge with a delicious lunch at Osteria ai Ranari. Savor their risotto with local sausage or indulge in a plate of gnocchi gorgonzola, accompanied by an excellent selection of regional wines.
  • Time for a cultural escape! Pay homage to the sleeping beauty of Mantua, the stunning Basilica di Sant'Andrea. Its majestic facade and intricate interiors will leave you spellbound.
  • Treat yourselves to an unforgettable evening at Ristorante La Botte. Feast on succulent grilled meats and homemade pastas. And of course, no stag do is complete without a few celebratory shots of limoncello!
Day 3

Quirky Mantua Delights

  • Start the day with a visit to Palazzo del Te, a quirky palace with eccentric designs. Don't miss the Hall of the Horses, where you can spot hidden equestrian motifs.
  • Get your cultural fix at the Mantua Cathedral, a stunning blend of architectural styles. Climb up its bell tower for panoramic views of the city – a perfect photo opportunity!
  • Indulge in a leisurely lunch at Trattoria La Casalinga, a hidden gem serving authentic Mantuan cuisine. Try the delicate tortellini in brodo or the sumptuous salami di Mantova.
  • Have a blast at Parco del Mincio, a lush green oasis on the outskirts of Mantua. Rent bicycles and pedal along the river, enjoying the picturesque scenery and wildlife.
  • Treat yourselves to an evening of live music and cocktails at Jazz Club di Mantova. Groove to the rhythms of talented local bands, and don't forget to join in on the dance floor!
  • Before bidding farewell to Mantua, indulge in a final feast at Osteria dell'Oca. From melt-in-your-mouth roast duck to delicate panna cotta, it's a perfect grand finale for your stag do extravaganza!
  • Au revoir, Mantua! Let the memories of your stag do adventure linger like the aroma of freshly brewed espresso as you bid farewell to this enchanting Italian gem.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Mantua, Italy by plane is to fly into Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN) and then take a train or bus to Mantua.

Car

To get to Mantua, Italy by car, you can drive along the A22 highway if coming from the north or south, or the A4 if coming from the east or west. Mantua is well-connected to the Italian road network.

Train

There is no train station in Mantua, so the best way to get there by train is to take a train to Verona Porta Nuova station and then transfer to a bus or taxi for the remaining journey.

Boat

There are no direct boat routes to Mantua, as it is an inland city. However, you can explore the surrounding lakes and waterways by boat, such as Lake Garda or the Mincio River.

Bus

The best way to get to Mantua, Italy by bus is to take a bus from major cities such as Milan or Verona. There are direct bus services available that will take you directly to Mantua's bus station.

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