This is our seventh trip to Italy, so we are focusing on some of the smaller cities and towns. Mantova and Urbino interest us due to their history and art. We have the time to visit one of these gems but not both. Which is your favorite and why? If you have visited either of these cities, we would love to hear your thoughts. Thank you
Posted by
Northern California (formerly Brescia and Lago di Garda Italy)
175 posts
I have only been to Mantova of those two cities and thought it was a great ‘real’ lived in city - a very memorable visit to the beautiful palazzo te , delicious meals (pasta with zucca/ pumpkin) and enjoyed the lively center. Was there near the Xmas holidays , and remember nice bookstores and cafes to spend time in and stay warm. This was many years ago but hope and imagine it’s the same.
Posted by
Firenze, Italy
2007 posts
You can't go wrong with both, but IMHO Mantova has easier train connections, while the railway line to Urbino is closed since 1987 and Urbino has to be reached by bus. Makes a difference to you?
As a plus, the cooking in Mantova has some distintive dishes.
It also depends on the season of the visit; Mantova is on a flat plain with dense fog in winter and unrelenting heat in summer; the climate in Urbino is better. Mantova is easier if visited in intermediate season.
Posted by
North Italy
591 posts
A difficult choice because both are beautiful. Good points made about the climate and transport. Also, Mantova is all on the flat whereas there's some up and down in Urbino. Also ....there are more key points to see in Mantova than Urbino which I shan't list because I imagine you've checked, so you'd want three nights/two full days in Mantova at least, less could do in Urbino. Urbino is a university city so livelier, while Mantova a bit more sleepy and provincial. You could be swayed by whichever is more convenient logistically for the rest of your trip.
If I was forced to choose, the fact that Mantova is near the water for a pleasant stroll along the river might decide it. But in summer would be a reason for me to avoid it for the mosquitoes - they wouldn't be a problem in Urbino!
https://slowtravelitalyspain.blogspot.com/2022/07/mantova-in-may-palazzo-ducale.html?m=1
Posted by
6251 posts
So much would depend on what else is in the itinerary and your transport--would you like to share those? I explored Marche but did not make it to Urbino and hope to get back to the region.
Posted by
Vignola, MO, IT
774 posts
I've been to both and liked them both. I think you will find more to do in Mantova than Urbino. Both worth visiting.
Posted by
Boise, ID, USA
2502 posts
My first trip to Europe was two weeks in Urbino, and I fell in love. So what if you have to take a bus from Pesaro? It's not far. And yes, I've been to Mantova but, for me, it didn't compare.