Planning on visiting the medieval streets and Renaissance palazzi of Mantua, Italy? Here are some tips for your travels.
Where to stay
Hotel Casa Poli – This hotels features 34 minimalist rooms. They have a mixture of Flos and Groppi light fixtures. And the beds have dark blue and bordeaux linens. Doubles start at $216. Find it at 32 Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi or on the web at hotelcasapoli.it
Where to eat
Ristorante Il Cigno – Looking for the best tortelli di zucca (pumpkin ravioli) in town? You’ll find it in this restaurant, which is housed in a 500-year-old palazzo. Dinner for two – $150. Located at 1 Piazza Carlo d’Arco.
L’Aquilla Nigra – Classic and experimental dishes are on the menu here. You’ll see original 14th & 15th century frescoes. The crunchy fried river shrimp with zucchini is an excellent house dish. Dinner for two $180. Find it at 4 Vicolo Bonacolsi.
Where to drink
Bar Caravatti – You’ll want to order the namesake drink here. Enjoy it as you watch the hustle of the nearby Piazza delle Erbe. Drinks for two – $15. Located at 16 Portici Broletto
Where to shop
Agape – For sleek housewares, you must shop here. Think bright orange showerheads and stainless steel wall lights. Find it at 29A Via XX Settembre or on the web at agapedesign.it
Maurizio Corraini – Here you will find an art gallery and shop. You can see titles by Bruno Munari and Enzo Mari. Find it at 7A Via Ippolito Nievo or on the web at corraini.it
What to see
Palazzo Te – In this 16th century palace, you’ll see Mannerist frescoes by Giulo Romano. Romano was a pupil of Raphael. Located at 13 Viale Te or on the web at palazzote.eu
