Student Life in Mantua

Mantova is a city rich in culture and history, renowned in Lombardy region as a true artistic and architectural gem. But there’s more to Mantova than its stunning landmarks and cultural events—it also boasts a lively social scene, especially in the evenings, with plenty of cafés, bars, and hangout spots in the historic center and along the three lakes that surround the city.

Here, you’ll find everything you need to settle into your new life, from academic resources to the best places to relax and have fun.

Libraries

Gino Baratta Library – Corso Garibaldi 88

Opening hours:

Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday: 09:00 – 20:00
Tuesday and Thursday: 09:00 – 22:30

Nearby Copy Shops

Legatoria Sereni – Via Scarsellini 3
📞 Tel: 0376-225740

Discover Mantova: A Unique Student Experience

Mantova offers a unique blend of culture, events, and fascinating locations that will make your university years truly unforgettable.

Explore the city and its narrow alleys, which open onto unexpected and stunning squares. One such spot is Piazza Mantegna, where you can admire the magnificent façade of the Basilica of Sant’Andrea, a Renaissance masterpiece by Leon Battista Alberti.

Continue your journey to the lively Piazza Erbe, known for its arcades and traditional cafés, before heading to Piazza Sordello. Here, you can relax in the beautiful gardens of Piazza Pallone or explore Palazzo Ducale, a fascinating maze of rooms and chambers that once housed Mantova’s most influential family: the Gonzagas.

A free shuttle will take you to Palazzo Te, once the Gonzagas’ residence for banquets and leisure. You can unwind in the stunning Parco Te, recently renovated, or enjoy an aperitif in the courtyard of Dell’Esedra, perhaps after visiting the impressive Camera dei Giganti.

Just a 15-minute walk from the Unicollege campus, you can reach the lakeside promenade along one of Mantova’s three lakes: Lago Inferiore, Lago di Mezzo, and Lago Superiore. In summer, the lakes are beautifully adorned with blooming lotus flowers. You can also book a boat tour through the Natural Reserve of the Mincio Valleys to admire the breathtaking scenery and observe local wildlife, including grey herons, marsh harriers, and royal swans.

Festivals and Cultural Events in Mantova

The most important literary event in Mantova, Festivaletteratura, takes place over five days in September, transforming the city into a hub of writers, artists, and cultural experts. The festival features debates, talks, and open lectures on key topics in literature, culture, and current affairs.

In June, urban theater and contemporary circus arts take center stage at the Open Festival. Throughout the city, acrobatic performances, dance, juggling acts, and theatrical shows by artists from around the world bring the streets to life.

Between October and November, the city welcomes Segni New Generations Festival, an international event dedicated to children and adults. The festival showcases performances aimed at stimulating creativity, imagination, and artistic innovation through performing arts.

Film lovers can enjoy the Mantova Film Fest in August, featuring a selection of independent films, documentaries, and short films screened outdoors in some of the city’s most beautiful squares.

Music is a key part of Mantova’s cultural scene. The Trame Sonore Festival brings chamber orchestras from around the world to enchanting venues such as Teatro Bibiena and Palazzo Ducale. The city also hosts the Mantova Jazz Festival, as well as large-scale concerts by national and international artists at the Mantova Summer Festival.

Events and Nightlife

The three lakes of Mantova are the perfect spot to enjoy an aperitivo in good company. Whether it’s by the shores of Lago di Mezzo at Papa’s Café, watching the sunset at Zanzara, or having a delightful dinner with live music at Che C’è C’è, there’s always a great atmosphere to enjoy.

Immerse in a diverse and international university environment. Mantova is indeed home to many Erasmus and exchange students, as well as student networks like Mantova Student Network (founded and supported by former Unicollege students), which organize various social and cultural activities, from language exchange events to aperitivi and film screenings in original language.

Unicollege Language Center