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• Mantua

Whimsical Delights: A 3-Day Adventure in Mantua

Discover the timeless allure of Mantua, where history and culture blend harmoniously.

28 August 2023

Mantua, located in northern Italy, is a charming city steeped in history and art. As a tourist, you can explore the stunning Renaissance architecture of Palazzo Ducale and visit the awe-inspiring frescoes of the Palazzo Te. Be sure to take a peaceful stroll along the charming lakeside promenades, offering breathtaking views of the city's beautiful lakes and cultural landmarks.

Travel plan

• Check into Hotel dei Gonzaga, a quaint boutique hotel located in the heart of the city, offering cozy rooms and lovely views.
• Begin your explorations at Palazzo Te, an extravagant Renaissance palace filled with stunning frescoes and enchanting gardens.
• Meander through Piazza delle Erbe, a vibrant square bursting with colorful stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, and local trinkets.
• Savor a delightful lunch at Trattoria La Tintoretta, where homemade pasta and delectable seafood dishes tantalize your taste buds.
• Lose yourself in the serenity of the Ducal Palace's secret gardens, where hidden grottoes and intricate sculptures await your discovery.
• As the sun sets, indulge in a candlelit dinner at Osteria del Baldero, a charming restaurant serving traditional Mantuan cuisine with a modern twist.

• After a scrumptious breakfast at Ristorante Le Capriate, head to the Palazzo Ducale to marvel at its grandiose architecture and remarkable art collection.
• Pay homage to Mantua's most famous resident, poet Virgil, at the Teatro Bibiena, a stunning neoclassical theater adorned with ornate details.
• Wander through the narrow streets of Borgo San Giuseppe, lined with picturesque houses and artisan workshops offering exquisite handmade crafts.
• Take a leisurely boat ride on Lake Garda, fringed by picturesque villages and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
• Enjoy dinner at Ristorante Enoteca Il Grifone, an elegant eatery renowned for its fine wines and inventive Mediterranean dishes that will leave you wanting more.

• Start your day with breakfast at Pasticceria Al Ponte, an enchanting bakery serving mouthwatering pastries and aromatic Italian coffee.
• Embark on a treasure hunt in the labyrinthine streets of the Jewish Ghetto, uncovering hidden synagogues and charming, family-owned trattorias.
• Discover the charm of Mantua's farmers' market, Mercato Coperto, where you can sample local cheeses, cured meats, and pick up farm-fresh produce.
• Visit the Rotonda di San Lorenzo, a circular church with stunning frescoes, and take in the serene atmosphere of this hidden gem.
• For your final dinner, indulge in Mantuan delicacies at Ristorante Morotti, known for its delectable pumpkin-filled tortelli and tender braised meats. Bon appétit!
• And there you have it! Three whimsical days in Mantua, filled with enchanting sights, delectable eats, and hidden wonders waiting to be discovered. Enjoy your journey through this historical and artistic haven!