Mantua Marvels: A Thrilling 5-Day Family Adventure

Discover the enchanting spirit of Mantua with your loved ones.

28 August 2023

Mantua, Italy is a fantastic destination for a family friendly trip, offering a blend of history, culture, and amusement for all ages. Explore the magnificent Palazzo Ducale, a beautiful Renaissance palace with stunning architecture and numerous art collections. Kids will love a visit to the Parco del Mincio, a charming natural reserve where they can enjoy picnics, cycling, or even rent a boat to paddle along the tranquil Mincio River.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Majestic Mantua Musings

  • Check into the charming Hotel Casa Poli, a blend of modern comfort and historical charm in the heart of Mantua.
  • Embark on a leisurely stroll around the stunning Piazza Sordello, where vibrant cafes and impressive palaces await.
  • Step into the enchanting Palazzo Ducale, a magnificent Renaissance masterpiece boasting intricate frescoes and lavish gardens.
  • Indulge in the local delights of tortelli di zucca, a traditional pumpkin-filled pasta, at Osteria delle Quattro Tette.
  • Unwind with a gelato from Gelateria Europa, where tantalizing flavors like caramelized fig will dance on your taste buds.
Day 2

Artistic Allure and Romantic Ruins

  • Immerse yourself in the artistic brilliance of Palazzo Te, a palace adorned with captivating frescoes and secret gardens.
  • Take a leisurely boat ride along the serene waters of Lago di Mezzo, embracing the idyllic scenery and picturesque lakeside villas.
  • Explore the ancient ruins of the Rotonda di San Lorenzo, a circular Roman temple steeped in history and mystery.
  • Savor a delectable seafood feast at Trattoria Ai Cugini, where the catch of the day is transformed into culinary perfection.
  • End the day with a mesmerizing opera performance at the breathtaking Teatro Bibiena, where the acoustics are nothing short of magical.
Day 3

Marvelous Museums and Markets

  • Immerse yourself in the artistic wonders of the Museo di Palazzo Ducale, home to an extensive collection of paintings and sculptures.
  • Delve into the vibrant atmosphere of the Mercato Coperto, a bustling indoor market where local produce and delicacies abound.
  • Pay a visit to the Casa del Rigoletto, the birthplace of the famous opera character, for a dose of musical history.
  • Feast on a hearty plate of risotto alla mantovana at Ristorante L'Incontro, where the flavors are as rich as the city's heritage.
  • Explore the quirky Museo della Stampa, dedicated to the fascinating world of printing, where even Gutenberg would be impressed.
Day 4

Tranquil Gardens and Ancient Churches

  • Discover tranquility amidst the lush greenery of the Giardini di Piazza Virgiliana, a haven of serenity away from the bustling streets.
  • Marvel at the intricate architecture of Basilica di Sant'Andrea, a majestic church adorned with breathtaking marble sculptures.
  • Uncover the secrets of the hauntingly beautiful Chiesa di San Sebastiano, its frescoes telling tales of faith and devotion.
  • Savor a delightful meal at Osteria Il Cigno Reale, where classic Mantuan dishes meet innovative culinary techniques.
  • Take a leisurely evening passeggiata along the atmospheric Lungolago Gonzaga, admiring the glittering lights reflecting on the water.
Day 5

Farewell, Bella Mantua

  • Venture beyond the city walls to Bosco della Fontana, a stunning nature reserve where majestic deer roam freely.
  • Discover the underground wonders of Gruppo Speleologico Mantovano, exploring hidden caves and grottos like intrepid explorers.
  • Bid goodbye to Mantua with a dinner at Osteria al Pompiere, where authentic flavors and warm hospitality create the perfect farewell feast.
  • Take one last gelato from Gelateria Emilia, savoring the bittersweet taste of farewell and the memories captured in every scoop.
  • Leave Mantua with a heart full of admiration for this hidden gem, promising to return and uncover even more of its treasures.

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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Mantua, located in northern Italy's Lombardy region, is a hidden gem for tourists seeking a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This enchanting city boasts a captivating UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center, Renaissance architecture, and palaces like Palazzo Ducale, where the illustrious Gonzaga family once ruled. Visitors can explore stunning gardens, indulge in delicious regional cuisine, and witness the iconic Palio di Mantova, a vibrant horse race that showcases the city's deep-rooted traditions.

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