Best Things to Do in Padova, Italy

Last Updated on December 28, 2024

Padova is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Northern Italy, but many skip it due to Venice being right next door. However, Padova has unique sites and experiences, with its charm and history. It’s worth dedicating 1-2 days to visit, especially if you love art.

Padova at a Glance:

Let’s look at some important things to see whether a trip to Padova is worth your time or not.

• One of the oldest cities in Italy
• It is home to a renowned University with many international students—one of the world’s oldest (founded in 1222!).
• Just 30 minutes by train from Venice and much more budget-friendly!

Best things to do in Padova, Italy

Let’s explore some of the best things to do and points of interest in Padova.

#1. Visit the Scrovegni Chapel (Cappella degli Scrovegni)

I’m starting with Padova’s absolute must-see! The Scrovegni Chapel is like the Sistine Chapel of Northern Italy – and I’m not exaggerating at all. Giotto’s frescoes are considered one of the most important artworks in the world. Why is it so special?

• Giotto’s frescoes changed the course of Western art
• The colors are so vivid you’ll think they were just painted
• The scenes narrate the life of the Virgin Mary and Christ in a way you’ve never seen beforeί

Pretty Travels Tip: You MUST book in advance! You can buy tickets online from the official website here. 

The ticket costs around 15 euros and the visit lasts exactly 15 minutes (timed entry) to preserve the artwork. Therefore, it won’t take up your whole day, and it’s the top attraction you must see in Padova. Unfortunately, I didn’t know this and hadn’t booked my tickets in advance.

#2. Visit the Basilica of Saint Anthony (Basilica di Sant’Antonio)

If there’s one building that symbolizes Padova, this is it! The Basilica of Saint Anthony is so important that locals simply call it “Il Santo” – The Saint. The domes resemble Venice’s Saint Mark’s! Must-see features:

• Donatello’s sculptures (especially the Gattamelata statue outside)
• Saint Anthony’s tomb. Yes, it’s in Padova!
• The Treasury Room with its relics
• The Museum of Saint Anthony
• The Chapel of Saint George

#3. Take photographs at Prato della Valle Square

Imagine Italy’s largest square! It’s like an open-air museum with 78 statues surrounding a canal. Things to do here:

• Walk around the canal (about 1.5 km)
• Take photos of the impressive statues
• Have a picnic on the grass

“Tranio, since for the great desire I had
To see fair Padua, nursery of arts,
I am arrived for fruitful Lombardy,
The pleasant garden of great Italy”
William Shakespeare’s, The Taming of the Shrew, Act I, Scene I, c. 1590–1591

#4. Admire Piazza dei Signori

This square is the heart of Padova! Here you’ll find the famous astronomical clock from 1344 – and yes, it still works! At night, the square comes alive with people enjoying their aperitivo (the Italian version of happy hour).

#5. Explore the Historic University of Padova

Have you heard of Palazzo Bo? It’s the historic headquarters of the University of Padova – and not just any university! This is where Galileo (yes, that Galileo!) studied and taught for 18 years.

Must-see at the University:

• The Anatomical Theater (the oldest in the world!)
• The Aula Magna where Galileo taught
• Sala dei Quaranta with portraits of famous graduates
• Book a guided tour unipd.it/en/tours-and-tickets It’s the only way to enter. Tours last 45 minutes and are in English and Italian

#6. Discover Padova’s Botanical Garden

The botanical garden in Padova is the world’s oldest and a UNESCO Heritage site. What you’ll see here:

• “Goethe’s palm” (planted in 1585!)
• a collection of poisonous plants
• the modern greenhouse

It’s quite large with many flowers and plants, and at only 10€ it’s worth the visit. Especially beautiful in spring when flowers are blooming or in autumn when it must be spectacular.

#7. Shopping in Padova

If you’ve followed the itinerary and seen all the historical attractions in Padova, you might want to relax. For shopping, head to Via Umberto I and Via Roma, the main shopping streets. From boutiques to traditional stores, you’ll find everything here. Key shopping tips:

• Sales in Padova for Italian clothes are in January and July
• Most shops close for lunch (13:00-16:00) like
• Usually closed on Sundays

#8. Wander Through the Historic Jewish Quarter

For something different, visit Padova’s Jewish ghetto to discover a completely different side of the city. You can see the Old Synagogue (one of the oldest in Italy), the Jewish Museum, and small antique shops. For a unique experience, you can also take a guided tour.

I think it’s a good idea because it helps you better understand the neighborhood’s history.

#9. Discover the Historic Ponte Molino Bridge

This Roman bridge, built in the 1st century BC, has survived everything – even WWII bombings. The bridge features five distinctive arches and is flanked by historic buildings, with a medieval tower at one end. It’s especially beautiful at sunset, making it one of the most photogenic spots in Padova.

#10. Explore the Arena Gardens

You know the perfect place to rest after all that sightseeing? These gardens! Located right next to the Scrovegni Chapel, they’re ideal for a relaxing break.

11. Take a Scenic Brenta Canal Cruise

The cruise travels along the canal past historic Venetian aristocratic villas from the 16th-18th centuries. You’ll see the canal banks, local towns, and other attractions. If you’re short on time, you can take a day trip from Venice.

What to Eat and Where to Eat in Padova: A Food Guide

Want to experience Padova through its flavors? Here are the must-try local specialties:

• Bigoli in salsa (thick pasta with anchovy sauce)
• isotto all’Ortolana (vegetable risotto)
• Baccalà alla vicentina (traditional cod dish)
• Spritz (famous aperitif drink

My favorite restaurants in Padova:

• Osteria L’Anfora for traditional cuisine
• Pizzeria Al Duomo the best pizza in town!
• Bar dei Osei for aperitivo
• Gelateria Giotto the yummiest gelato

My Pretty Travels Tip: Don't forget to grab a coffee at Caffè Pedrocchi! Once known as "the café without doors" for being open 24/7, this historic café has been a gathering spot for intellectuals and artists since 1772. Try their signature "Pedrocchi coffee" (with mint). Though expensive, it's worth experiencing this iconic spot.

Where to stay in Padova

Looking for accommodations? Padova is much more budget-friendly than Venice. While I stayed with locals, here are the best areas to book your stay:

• Centro Storico (historic center)
• Around Piazza dei Signori
• Near Saint Anthony’s Basilica
• University district

These locations provide excellent access to the main attractions while keeping you in the heart of the city.

Booking.com

How to Get Around Padova

Padova is perfect for walking. The historic center is very walkable with most attractions close together. The city has many pedestrian zones, making it ideal for discovering hidden corners and little-known spots.

By Bike The city offers a bike-sharing system for about €5/day with extensive bike lanes throughout, making it perfect for city exploration.

By Bus The city has a comprehensive bus network. Single tickets cost €1.30 for 75 minutes, while day passes are €3.60. Note that bus service ends at 20:30.

Pretty Travels Tips: Download the local transport app. Taxis are expensive - use them only when necessary!

Best Time to Visit Padova

Spring (April-May): Ideal weather, fewer tourists

Fall (September-October): Pleasant temperatures

Summer: Hot but full of events

Winter: Less crowded, lower price

Day Trips from Padova: Perfect Base for Northern Italy

Make Padova your hub for exploring Northern Italy with these convenient day trips:

Venice: Check my complete Venice guide here. Just 30 minutes by train, with departures every half hour.
Verona: Follow my detailed Verona guide here. 45-minute train journey, departures every 30 minutes.
Bologna: Read my comprehensive Bologna guide here. 1.5-hour trip, perfect for a day visit.

Pro tip: Book train tickets online for better rates and skip the lines.

Final Thoughts on Padova

Padova charms visitors by perfectly blending history with modern life. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, history buff, food lover, or simply seeking authentic Italian atmosphere, Padova offers something for everyone.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT Padova

Let me answer some of the most common questions I get about visiting Padova