Mantua City & Ducal Palace Half-Day Guided Tour
180
Overview
Discover Mantua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the 2016 Italian Capital of Culture, on this engaging 3-hour tour. Explore Mantua's city center and the Ducal Palace, one of Italy's greatest treasures, with a professional private local guide. Mantua surprises visitors with its exceptional character; small but spectacular, the city offers history and beauty around every corner. Visit Mantua, where art, food, and beauty combine to make life sweeter.
During this walking tour, visitors will see key landmarks, including the Palazzo Ducale, Camera degli Sposi, Piazza Sordello, Piazza delle Erbe, and the Basilica di Sant'Andrea. At the Palazzo Ducale, marvel at the stunning architecture and art. The Camera degli Sposi offers a glimpse into Renaissance artistry. Wander through Piazza Sordello and Piazza delle Erbe, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of these historic squares.
This private tour includes the services of a professional guide. Please note that the entrance ticket for the Ducal Palace + castle (€15.00 per person) and transportation to and from attractions are not included.




Highlights
Explore Mantua's Heart: Discover the beauty and history of Mantua's city center on foot.
See the Ducal Palace: Visit one of Italy's greatest treasures with a private guide.
Expert Local Guide: Learn about Mantua's history and culture from a professional.
Private and Personalized: Enjoy an exclusive tour experience tailored to your interests.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally love this tour for its knowledgeable guides and the beauty of Mantua, especially the Ducal Palace. Some wish the tour was longer or that the ticket costs were clearer.

Customers say the guide is very good at explaining the history of the palace.
Many enjoyed the beautiful and amazing art pieces inside the palace.
Customers liked the tour was interesting and informative.
Several reviewers highlighted the guide's enthusiasm and depth of knowledge.
Some customers were not aware entrance tickets were not included.
A few felt the tour could have been longer.
The Journey
Palazzo Ducale
Step into the grandeur of Palazzo Ducale, the sprawling palace complex that was once home to the powerful Gonzaga family. A true symbol of Mantua, this 35,000-square-meter masterpiece is a labyrinth of opulent buildings, interconnected galleries, serene inner courts, and lush gardens. While renowned for Andrea Mantegna's breathtaking frescoes in the Camera degli Sposi, the palace also boasts countless other architectural and artistic treasures waiting to be discovered. Lose yourself in the history and artistry of one of Italy's most impressive Renaissance residences.
Camera degli Sposi
Enter the Camera Picta, better known as the Camera degli Sposi (Bridal Chamber), a highlight of Palazzo Ducale. This room is a Renaissance masterpiece created by Andrea Mantegna, one of the era's most influential painters. Mantegna's stunning frescoes create the illusion of an open portico, offering breathtaking views of an idealized countryside. Immerse yourself in this intimate space, designed to impress and inspire, and witness the artistic genius of the Italian Renaissance firsthand.
Piazza Sordello
Experience the heart of Mantua at Piazza Sordello, a grand square framed by some of the city's most important historical landmarks. Marvel at the imposing facades of the Ducal Palace, the majestic cathedral, and the Bishop's Palace, each a testament to Mantua's rich past. This vibrant square is the perfect starting point for your exploration of Mantua, offering a glimpse into the city's power, history, and architectural beauty.
Piazza delle Erbe
Wander through Piazza delle Erbe, a historic square that was once the center of medieval political life. Admire the communal palaces, including the old town hall and the Massaro's seat, and discover remnants of the past, such as the four iron rings under the archway once used for public shaming. This square offers a glimpse into Mantua's medieval past, where justice was dispensed and the community gathered.
Piazza Erbe
Stroll through Piazza Erbe, a vibrant square once the site of Mantua's medieval fruit and vegetable market. Admire the rear facade of the medieval town hall and the Palazzo di Giustizia (courthouse). Discover unique features such as a 15th-century astrolabe, a beautiful example of early scientific instruments, and the Romanesque church of Saint Lawrence. Piazza Erbe is a testament to Mantua's rich history, offering a glimpse into the city's commercial and religious past.
Basilica di Sant'Andrea
Discover the architectural marvel of the Basilica di Sant'Andrea, designed by the Renaissance genius Leon Battista Alberti. This masterpiece of 15th-century architecture in Northern Italy features a classical facade that conceals a single nave with barrel vaulting and walls painted with trompe-l'oeil effects, creating an illusion of depth and space. Pay homage to Andrea Mantegna at his tomb, located in the first chapel on the left, and experience the spiritual and artistic significance of this iconic church.
Know Before You Go
This private tour includes a professional guide to show you the best of Mantua. Please note that the entrance ticket for the Ducal Palace and castle, costing €15.00 per person, is not included. Transportation to and from the attractions is also not included, so plan your travel accordingly. Enjoy exploring Mantua's beauty and history!
Hot Tip
Consider purchasing your Ducal Palace tickets in advance to skip the line, especially during peak season. Wear comfortable shoes, as this is a walking tour. Also, bring some extra money for the entrance tickets since they are not included in the cost of the tour.