Mantua: Italy's Best-Kept Secret

Welcome to Mantua, a charming city that straddles the regions of Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna in Italy. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful nature, it's no wonder that Mantua's old town, Centro Storico, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Are you ready for an adventure filled with art and nature? Join me on this journey to uncover the magic of Mantua! 💓

Mantua’s Natural Beauty

Did you know Mantua is almost entirely surrounded by water? The city is cradled on three sides by artificial lakes, which were created back in the 12th century as a defense system. These lakes add a serene, almost magical quality to the city. 

After exploring Lago Inferiore, make your way to Riserva Regionale Vallazza, a national park brimming with vibrant birdlife and lush landscapes. It’s the perfect spot for nature lovers to unwind and soak in the beauty of the Italian countryside.

Getting to Riserva Regionale Vallazza

🛥️ Want to know the best way to get there? Take a boat tour! I stumbled upon this hidden gem while strolling along the river. Head to the Pontile B1 Navi Andes Mantova, where various boat tours depart every few hours. These tours typically last between one to two hours.

💲❓ The tours are operated by a company called Motonavi Andes Negrini. While the tour commentary is in Italian, the views alone are worth the trip! You can book online or pay by card on the spot. The ticket price is just 10 € per person—don't forget to arrive 15 minutes early to secure your spot!