
Piazza delle Erbe
Mantova's vibrant main square, alive with markets, cafes, and stunning Renaissance architecture.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, local charm

Piazza delle Erbe
Best Time
Fewer crowds, local charm

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Mantova's vibrant main square, alive with markets, cafes, and stunning Renaissance architecture.
"Stunning piazza with lots of life / activities around. Highly recommend wandering the surrounding streets and stop for a coffee."

☕ Coffee & People-Watching
Find a cafe in the piazza and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for a relaxing break.
🕰️ Admire the Clock Tower
Don't miss the intricate astronomical clock on the Palazzo della Ragione. It's a unique sight!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Palazzo della Ragione & Clock Tower
Piazza delle Erbe
Marvel at the historic Palazzo della Ragione and its iconic astronomical clock. A true testament to Renaissance ingenuity.

Rotonda di San Lorenzo
Piazza delle Erbe
Step into one of Mantova's oldest buildings, a charming Romanesque church offering a peaceful escape.

Vibrant Market Atmosphere
Piazza delle Erbe
Experience the lively market stalls and cafes that fill the square, offering local flavors and a taste of daily life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Pace
Unlock Mantova's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Coffee & People-Watching
Find a cafe in the piazza and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for a relaxing break.
🕰️ Admire the Clock Tower
Don't miss the intricate astronomical clock on the Palazzo della Ragione. It's a unique sight!
🚶♀️ Wander the Side Streets
Explore the charming alleys surrounding the piazza for hidden gems and local shops.
💳 Consider the Mantova Card
If you plan to visit multiple sites, this card offers great value.
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Coffee & People-Watching
Find a cafe in the piazza and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for a relaxing break.
🕰️ Admire the Clock Tower
Don't miss the intricate astronomical clock on the Palazzo della Ragione. It's a unique sight!
🚶♀️ Wander the Side Streets
Explore the charming alleys surrounding the piazza for hidden gems and local shops.
💳 Consider the Mantova Card
If you plan to visit multiple sites, this card offers great value.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Piazza delle Erbe is consistently praised as a vibrant and beautiful heart of Mantova, surrounded by stunning historic architecture and lively cafes. Visitors love its energetic atmosphere and the convenience of exploring nearby landmarks. Some find it can get crowded, especially during peak times.
"Nice square circled by a few of the best landmarks of the city"
Didem YUCEL
"Stunning piazza with lots of life / activities around. Highly recommend wandering the surrounding streets and stop for a coffee"
Pauline Malcouronne
"I can see why this is one of the 300 most beautiful cities in Italy. The clock is amazing. The history is so interesting and the people so nice. I recommend visiting on a weekday (tues-frid)"
Judith Wyo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Piazza delle Erbe is centrally located in Mantova's historic center, making it easily accessible on foot from most accommodations. If arriving by car, look for parking garages on the outskirts of the ZTL (limited traffic zone) and walk in. Public transport options are also available, with buses stopping near the main squares.
Absolutely! Piazza delle Erbe is a pedestrian-friendly square, perfect for strolling and exploring. The surrounding streets are also very walkable, allowing you to discover more of Mantova's charm.
Mantova's historic center, including Piazza delle Erbe, is generally flat and walkable. While some older buildings might have steps, many main attractions are accessible. Consider a guided tour that caters to mobility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Piazza delle Erbe itself is a public square and is free to enter. However, attractions within or bordering the piazza, like the Palazzo della Ragione or Rotonda di San Lorenzo, may have admission fees.
As a public square, Piazza delle Erbe is always accessible. However, the shops, cafes, and surrounding attractions will have their own operating hours, typically from morning until evening.
The Rotonda di San Lorenzo is generally free to enter, though donations are appreciated. It's a beautiful, ancient church that offers a peaceful respite.
The Mantova Card can typically be purchased at tourist information points or at the entrance of major attractions like Palazzo Ducale. It's a good investment if you plan to see several sights.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning architecture of the Palazzo della Ragione and its clock tower. The Rotonda di San Lorenzo also makes for beautiful shots, especially from the exterior. Don't forget to photograph the lively market scenes!
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light that bathes the piazza in a warm glow, perfect for photography. Mornings can also be lovely with fewer people.
Generally, photography is allowed in the public square. However, inside churches or private establishments, it's always best to check for specific rules.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Piazza delle Erbe is lined with numerous cafes and restaurants offering local Mantuan cuisine. Look for places serving 'tortelli di zucca' (pumpkin ravioli) or 'risotto alla pilota'.
Yes, you'll find several 'gelaterias' around Piazza delle Erbe offering delicious Italian gelato. It's a perfect treat on a warm day.
Beyond tortelli di zucca and risotto alla pilota, try 'sbrisolona' (a crumbly almond cake) and local salumi. Many restaurants in Piazza delle Erbe will feature these dishes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Travelers with Limited Mobility
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Mantova: Piazza delle Erbe
Dominating the square are the Palazzo della Ragione and its magnificent astronomical clock, a marvel of 15th-century engineering that still tracks celestial movements. Adjacent to it stands the Rotonda di San Lorenzo, one of the city's oldest churches, dating back to the 11th century. Its circular design and Romanesque style offer a starkly beautiful contrast to the surrounding Renaissance facades.
Visitors often describe the piazza as 'full of life' and a 'stunning piazza with lots of life/activities around.' It's the perfect spot to pause, enjoy a coffee or aperitivo at one of the many outdoor cafes, and simply soak in the atmosphere. The energy of the piazza, especially during market days, is infectious and provides a true taste of Mantuan life.
Navigating Mantova: Beyond the Piazza
For those interested in unique museums, the Galleria Storica Nazionale dei Vigili del Fuoco (National Historical Museum of Firefighters) offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of firefighting in Italy, with a vast collection of vintage vehicles and equipment. Exploring Mantova is also about appreciating its unique geography; the city is surrounded by lakes, offering beautiful views and opportunities for leisurely walks along the waterfront.
Many visitors recommend the Mantova Card for a comprehensive experience, as it grants access to multiple attractions and can be a cost-effective option for exploring the city's treasures. The city's compact nature makes it ideal for walking, allowing you to stumble upon hidden courtyards and charming streets that might otherwise be missed.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit