B&B Palazzo Mantegna

Palazzo Mantegna is an impressive historic building, and I understand it has some beautiful, well-equipped rooms, but I didn’t enjoy my stay. I booked two nights through Booking.com and was given a room different from the one in the photos. It was large, with a bathroom, but had just one small 40cm x 40cm window and air conditioning poorly placed above the beds. At €190, it felt like a hovel and was far too expensive. Breakfast was barely adequate. Had I seen the room first, I wouldn’t have taken it. Booking.com also required payment upfront with no right of cancellation.

I hosted my family at Palazzo Mantegna, right in the heart of Gioiosa Ionica’s beautiful historic center. The staff were warm and welcoming, and the rooms were spacious and lovely, with panoramic views. It was a fantastic experience!

I didn’t notice any parking right by the B&B, which is my only slight reservation. You can leave the car near the main square, though, and walking is how you discover the little corners and views you can’t reach by car. The narrow streets leading to this place make it feel like time has stopped, and there are architectural and artistic treasures tucked around the town. It’s in the historic center of Gioiosa Ionica, just steps from the Matrice and San Rocco churches. The room was spacious and fully renovated, with the building’s original antique floors, a Samsung TV, and air conditioning. The bathroom was modern, with a large shower and hot water readily available. Breakfast was delicious too, with handmade cakes and pies, jam, cereals, juice, water, and excellent coffee. I stayed last night and was pleasantly surprised by my choice. I definitely recommend it for the value for money, and I’ll be back.

The owners were friendly and helpful, and we had a lovely stay. Our room was spacious, clean, and well stocked. Breakfast was standard but fresh. It’s a great base for exploring beautiful Gioiosa Ionica, and be sure to see the church of San Rocco, the town’s patron saint. Thanks for everything, we’ll definitely be back.