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Mantua

Lombardy

Mantua

Mantua, Lombardy
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One of Italy's major art cities, Mantua is surrounded by water and marked by a prestigious history

Mantova is a gem of Italian art and architecture which beautifies Lombardy as a region. Built around three lakes supplied by the Mincio river, it is the city of Virgil and the Gonzagas characterised by an overwhelming charm and aiming straight at the heart of the visitors who will never forget it.

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UNESCO
Mantua and Sabbioneta, the pearls of the Po Valley

Mantua and Sabbioneta, the pearls of the Po Valley

Rich in charm, art and history, Mantua and Sabbioneta are two beautiful cities in the heart of the Po Valley: what do they have in common? The presence of the Gonzagas transformed them into magnificent centres of the Italian and European Renaissance.
5 minutes
Historical sites
Olympic Theatre, Sabbioneta

Sabbioneta, a Renaissance masterpiece, and the dream of an enlightened prince

Vespasiano Gonzaga Colonna was an enlightened and visionary prince leader, who in the second half of the 1500s built Sabbioneta from nothing, creating a place of astonishing beauty and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Vespasiano was the last duke and the glory of the city died with him. Yet the dream remained intact in its earthly materialisation.
3 minutes
Museums and monuments
Castello di San Giorgio Mantova

Castle of San Giorgio

From defensive structure to Renaissance residence Built at the request of Francesco I Gonzaga, the Castle of San Giorgio is one of the most representative examples of late medieval military architecture. Erected to defend the city, it has a square plan with 4 corner towers and is surrounded by a moat crossed by 3 drawbridges. With Ludovico II it lost its military function to become a marquis' residence and for many years became the residence of Isabella d'Este, who surrounded herself with the most important artists of the time, from Leonardo da Vinci to Ludovico Ariosto, from Andrea Mantegna to Pietro Perugino. The rooms in the building were decorated with important frescoes, including the very famous "Camera Picta" or Bridal Chamber, a masterpiece by Andrea Mantegna. The upper level of the castle was used as a maximum security prison during the period of Austrian rule. Find out more: https://www.mantovaducale.beniculturali.it/it/percorsi/il-castello
Lombardia , Mantova
Cycling tourism
sunday on the mincio cycle path. pescheria del garda with your family

Sunday on the Mincio cycle path

One of Italy's most picturesque cycle paths, the Mincio cycle path, is a very easy route. It connects b to the city of Mantua, passing through fields of poppies and wheat and charming villages, and skirting the river Mincio, in a route that is almost 50 km long. Sunny weather, the wind in your hair and nature: this scenic route is ideal for spending a Sunday off the beaten track.
3 minutes
Museums and monuments
Ducal Palace of Mantua

Ducal Palace of Mantua

The Ducal Palace of Mantua - The largest late-Mediaeval court in Europe The largest architectural museum complex in Italy and a UNESCO World Heritage Site The Ducal Palace Museum Complex in Mantua extends over an area of 35,000 sq. m. and has about 1000 different rooms. Towers, streets, majestic rooms and apartments, courtyards and gardens turn this structure into an architectural complex of incredible size. More than a building, it can be defined as an authentic palace-city to be explored in full. Pisanello, Mantegna and Rubens are some of the great Masters whose works are still on show in the palace today. Corte Vecchia, Corte Nuova, the Castle of San Giorgio, the Gardens, the Archaeological Museum and the Gallery of Contemporary Art are the main areas to visit in this Renaissance court - one of the largest in Europe.
Lombardy , Mantova
Cycling tourism
Cycling around cities of art and historic villages in Lombardy

Cycling around cities of art and historic villages in Lombardy

Cities of art and historic villages alternate between vineyards, rice paddies, ancient noble residences and traditional farmhouses. Lombardy is full of surprises for people who explore it by bicycle, with a generous offering of local wine and foods: here are five specific itineraries.
3 minutes
City

Surrounded by water and marked by a prestigious history

It is one of the most important towns in Lombardy, particularly from an artistic standpoint: Mantova is recounted among the imposing residences, museums and a perfectly preserved historical centre. Historically related to the noble Gonzaga family and universally known as the house of Virgil, this is a destination to discover.

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Milan Sondrio Como Lecco Bergamo Brescia Varese Monza Lodi Cremona Mantua Pavia
Mantua
Milan

Milan, the metropolis that finds a perfect and dynamic balance between history and modernity. While it is considered one of the world's fashion and design capitals, as well as a financial hub, Milan is also a city of culture and thought. While always looking towards the future, this Lombard capital lovingly preserves its prominent history, boasting spectacular museums and some of the most monumental churches in Italy.

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Mantua
Sondrio

The capital of the Valtellina, Sondrio, stands out as the most important economic centre of the Valtellina, a corridor between the north and south of the Alps, and also a land of sanctuaries and fine wines. It lies at the mouth of the Malenco valley , which communicates with Switzerland and is very popular with tourists, both in summer and winter for snow sports. Over the course of time, many have contended for this border location, which is coveted and marked with many testimonies: the Austrians, for example, 'bequeathed' the central Piazza Garibaldi, next to the course of the Mallero stream. Strolling along, one encounters 19th-century palazzi, elegant in their neoclassical façades, and then those of the 16th century, the Martinengo and Pretorio palaces... The ecclesiastical heritage is instead in the collegiate church of Saints Gervasio and Protasio, while putting everything on the timeline is the Valtellina Museum of History and Art , which reconstructs the history and identity of the area up to the present day. The latest addition is Cast, a multimedia 'narrative museum' dedicated to Alpine culture, housed in Masegra Castle.

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Mantua
Como

Walking around the lake, among villages, historic villas and superb views The province of Como is industrious, but it is on the shores of its famous lake featuring picturesque views, charming villages, Art Nouveau-style architecture and enchanting gardens that over the years have captivated Hollywood and the countless actors who have made their home there. From Menaggio to Cernobbio, from Torno to Laglio via Bellagio and Tremezzo: every stop along the way is bursting with beauty and authenticity. Tourists looking for a cultural holiday among unmissable monuments, churches and museums can start in Como and spend a day exploring the city: the Cathedral, Villa Olmo, which often hosts exhibitions, not forgetting a trip to the Tempio Voltiano with its permanent exhibition dedicated to physicist Alessandro Volta. Then you can take a break for a few hours and take the cable car from the lakeside promenade to Brunate. Trekking enthusiasts can enjoy breath-taking views from the Sacro Monte di Ossuccio, one of the nine Sacri Monti hilltop complexes of Piedmont and Lombardy, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Another must is a trip to the Isola Comacina, a small oasis of peace surrounded by the waters of the lake and accessible by boat from March to October.

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Mantua
Lecco

The hidden jewel of Lake Como On the shores of that “branch of Lake Como” lies Lecco, one of Lombardy’s most picturesque locations. You can explore the city and its surrounding territory by following the footsteps of the characters in Alessandro Manzoni’s novel The Betrothed. Ponte Azzone Visconti offers the best views of Pescarenico, the oldest district of the city, which is described in the novel. Be sure to visit the Rocca di Vercurago castle, also known as Castello dell’Innominato, and Villa Manzoni, which belonged to the author’s family. The Basilica of San Nicolò, Palazzo Belgiojoso and Piazza Era are worth visiting. The lake shores offer enchanting villages, like Lierna, a popular tourist destination all year round thanks to its Riva Bianca beach and late-medieval castle. To discover a real-life ghost town, head to Consonno, the “Las Vegas of Brianza”. For visitors who love high-altitude hiking, around Lecco you can enjoy scenic treks to the peaks of Monte Resegone or the Grigne group. You can follow the Viandante hiking trail around the entire lake, from Lecco to Colico, finding beautiful villages along the way, including Mandello del Lario, Varenna and Bellano. Don’t miss the hill of Montevecchia, with its sanctuary immersed in the park and criss-crossed by paths you can travel on foot, by horse or by mountain bike.

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Bergamo
Bergamo

A medieval heart and a contemporary soul, Bergamo is a jewel set within ancient World Heritage walls Bergamo is one of a kind. It is characterised by an older part located on hills, rich in medieval remains, and a modern part at its foot, born and raised with industrial expansion. Two souls and one heart. Ideal for a holiday of exploration, it promises a conquest at every step.

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Mantua
Brescia

From the lake to the mountains, among history, culture and natural paradises From mountains, lakes, forests and panoramic trains, to villages, castles and the refined wine cellars of Franciacorta: the province of Brescia, the largest province in Lombardy, boasts an extremely varied territory, which stretches from Bassa Bresciana to Val Camonica. Here, visitors can enjoy a rich variety of experiences. Do you love nature walks, water sports or cycling? Between Lake Garda and Lake Iseo, you will be spoilt for choice, with cycle paths suitable for all proficiency levels and the scenic “Treno dei Sapori” (Flavour Train), aboard which you can discover typical local products. History buffs can travel back in time to the Middle Ages by visiting Brescia Castle or discover the fascinating Camuni civilisation the Naquane National Park of Rock Engravings in Capo di Ponte. We also recommend visiting the Villa Romana in Desenzano del Garda and the historic town centre of Sirmione. If you are looking for family-friendly activities, don’t miss the Forest of Gnomes in Zone, where you will encounter gnomes, dragons and other magical creatures. Visitors who want to indulge in a little relaxation are sure to love the thermal baths of Boario and the healing water of Sirmione. Skiing enthusiasts can choose between the Pontedilegno-Tonale Ski Area and the Borno Ski Area, between Val Camonica and Valle di Scalve.

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Mantua
Varese

Strolling among lakes, noble residences and spiritual sites The province of Varese offers visitors a stunning array of artistic and natural beauties to explore — starting with its capital, a “garden city” set in a region rich in lakes set atop seven hills. You can visit the Palazzo Estense with its park, Villa Panza, Piazza del Podestà and the Basilica of San Vittore. Near the city are the 18th-century Villa Della Porta Bozzolo, the Valganna caves and the Sacro Monte di Varese, with its frescoed chapels and panoramic views over the valley. Overlooking Lake Maggiore is the hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso. Or another way to admire the lake from above is to visit the Rocca di Angera castle, which houses the Museo della Bambola, or to take the cable car to the summit of Sasso Ferro from Laveno Mombello, a delightful lakeside village. For an immersive experience in nature, you can take a dip in Lake Monate, cycle along the Comabbio lakeside path, or go trekking or mountain biking along the 150 km of trails in the Cinque Vette Park. Not far from Malpensa is Volandia, a museum dedicated to flight.

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Mantua
Monza

A city symbolising power and royalty in Lombardy Monza is undoubtedly one of the most renowned urban centres in Lombardy. Rich in history, its origins date back to the Iron Age. You will be enchanted by the beautiful black and white façade of Monza Cathedral, the 6th-century Basilica of St John the Baptist. Inside, you will find the Chapel of Queen Theodolinda, a masterpiece of Gothic art, which houses the Iron Crown, the most famous example of Lombard goldsmithing. An air of royalty permeates Monza. The Royal Villa, or Reggia di Monza, is a must-see. This huge, neoclassical building, the former residence of the Habsburgs, is surrounded by its enormous Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe. Anyone with a passion for engines can visit the Monza Circuit, built in 1922 and still a go-to track for motorbike sports. Walking through the streets of the centre, you will come across the Arengario, an ancient, 13th-century municipal palace. As you continue along the Lambro river, you will discover the many bridges that cross it, starting with the most famous, the Ponte dei Leoni. You can treat yourself to a bite to eat at one of the typical trattorias. We recommend trying the risotto with Luganega, a sausage typical of Monza.

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Mantua
Lodi

History and tradition in the Po Valley Lodi is among the richest cities in history in the Po Valley. Founded in 1158 by Frederick Barbarossa, its origins are even older. As you walk through the streets of the historic centre, make sure to stop by monuments such as the Lodi Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Tempio dell’Incoronata and Palazzo Mozzanica, one of the best examples of Lombard Renaissance architecture. You can stop for a coffee or an aperitif at Piazza della Vittoria, with arcades on all four sides. Slightly further away from the city, you can visit Lodi Vecchio, the ancient Laus Pompeia, a city founded by the Romans that originated as an earlier village of Celtic origin. From Piazza Santa Maria, you can see the ruins of the ancient cathedral. If you love nature, we recommend visiting the Paradiso Fish Park to see fish in their natural habitat, thanks to the underwater observatory. As well as a thousand-year-old history, Lodi also has its own fantastic culinary tradition. The undisputed star is Granone Lodigiano cheese, considered the predecessor of all Grana cheeses, but Lodigiano salami and Raspadura cheese are also worth trying.

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Mantua
Cremona

The home of the violin, among thriving plains and protected green areas The province of Cremona boasts many protected green areas, including regional parks and nature reserves. However, visitors flock to the area not only for these natural paradises, such as the Oglio and Serio Regional Parks, but also for its elegant cities, like Cremona and Crema. Your first stop when visiting the provincial capital should undoubtedly be the Torrazzo bell tower, which stands beside Cremona Cathedral. At 112 metres high, it is among the tallest bell towers in Europe. You can visit this undisputed icon of the city by climbing no fewer than 502 steps, but the views you will enjoy from the top make it worth the effort. Cremona is also considered the home of violins ⁠— we recommend visiting the Violin Museum, a stone’s throw from the beautiful Piazza del Comune. The historic centre of Crema, within the Serio Park, is easily accessible by foot. Be sure not to miss the Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Croce, the former Convent of Sant’Agostino, which now houses the Civic Museum of Crema and the central Piazza del Duomo.

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Mantua
Mantua

One of Italy's major art cities, Mantua is surrounded by water and marked by a prestigious history. Mantova is a gem of Italian art and architecture which beautifies Lombardy as a region. Built around three lakes supplied by the Mincio river, it is the city of Virgil and the Gonzagas characterised by an overwhelming charm and aiming straight at the heart of the visitors who will never forget it.

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Mantua
Pavia

Falling in love with Pavia: the rice capital of Italy and home to Einstein A rich historical and artistic heritage, an enviable food and wine tradition, and countless fascinating sites make Pavia surprisingly unique and perfect for a tailor-made holiday. The Charterhouse, a jewel of the Renaissance The best place to start is the Charterhouse of Pavia, a monumental complex eight kilometres away from the city centre. Commissioned as a family chapel and mausoleum by Gian Galeazzo Visconti in the 15th century, it was entrusted to the Carthusian monks, before passing to the Cistercians and the Benedictines of Pavia. But, though his ashes were taken there, its patron never saw the end of its construction, which was continued by Francesco Sforza and Ludovico il Moro. Housing works by Perugino, Pinturicchio and Guercino, the interior flaunts a Gothic style, modelled on the Milan Cathedral, while the façade is overtly Renaissance. The Visconti Castle, a symbol of power More than a castle, this building is a symbol of wealth and power dating back to 1360. It is surrounded by a beautiful park, which you can only see part of today, connecting it to the Charterhouse of Pavia. Significant historical events it bore witness to include the marriage of Ludovico il Moro to Beatrice d'Este. Although today part of the castle has been destroyed, the interior still hosts the Civic Museums and the Malaspina civic art gallery, with masterpieces such as Antonello da Messina's Portrait of a Man. The Church of San Pietro in Ciel d'Oro and the Ponte Coperto The Church of San Pietro in Ciel d'Oro is definitely worth a visit. It is the resting place of two Church Fathers: St Augustine, who lies in a magnificent tomb, and Severinus Boethius, philosopher and martyr. The Longobard-style church was rebuilt in the Romanesque style and is considered one of the most important religious building in the city together with the Basilica of San Michele Maggiore. Also well worth a visit is the Ponte Coperto, the iconic covered bridge of Pavia that crosses the Ticino river. This bridge connects the historic centre with Borgo Ticino, originally located outside the city walls, and the Palazzo Broletto, a 12th-century building with a striking porticoed inner courtyard, the heart of institutional life in times gone by. Keen eyes can also spot a plaque dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the death of Albert Einstein, who lived here for some time. Albert Einstein It’s true! Einstein's parents moved to Pavia in 1894, to Palazzo Cornazzani to be precise, the former home of Ugo Foscolo, and Albert himself also lived here for a while. The theatre that hosted Gassman and Fo The 18th-century Teatro Fraschini theatre is a true masterpiece that has seen renowned actors such as Vittorio Gassman and Dario Fo grace its stage. It has a typical horseshoe shape, with a series of box seats and an entirely painted wooden ceiling. Pavia and its passion for heels In nearby Vigevano is the International Footwear Museum, which exhibits all kinds of shoes from the historical to the super fashionable and even recent models. You can even find the historic slipper “la pianella di Beatrice d'Este” strutting side by side with the best of Manolo Blahnik! Rice: an icon Pavia has around 80 thousand hectares of paddy fields. We are talking about the largest area of rice cultivation in Italy, and you can enjoy a walk or cycle on paths alongside the paddies.

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