Discover Padua: A Family-Friendly Adventure on a Budget

Discover the charms of Padua, where history meets adventure for the whole family!

19 July 2023

Padua, Italy is a delightful destination for a family-friendly trip, offering a rich mix of history, culture, and entertainment. Explore the charming historic center, where you can visit the magnificent Basilica of Saint Anthony, discover vibrant local markets, and enjoy delicious gelato from local artisans. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the world-renowned Padua Botanical Garden, Europe's oldest academic garden, providing a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Historical Heart of Padua

  • Start your day with a kick of caffeine at the iconic Café Pedrocchi, where even the coffee beans are treated like royalty.
  • Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of the Scrovegni Chapel's frescoes, painted by the legendary Giotto.
  • Wander through the vibrant street markets of Piazza delle Erbe, filled with colorful produce, aromatic spices, and local delicacies.
  • Feel like a scholar at the historic University of Padua, where Galileo himself once walked the hallowed halls.
  • Escape the chaos of the city in the peaceful oasis of Prato della Valle, one of Europe's largest and most enchanting squares.
  • End the day with a scrumptious dinner at Osteria dei Fabbri, savoring delectable Venetian dishes crafted with love and tradition.
Day 2

A Gourmet Adventure in Padua

  • Treat your taste buds to a heavenly breakfast at Pasticceria Rosa, where homemade pastries make you feel like you're floating on a sugar-cloud.
  • Embark on a culinary tour at Mercato di Padova, where local artisans and farmers showcase their mouthwatering delights.
  • Indulge in heavenly tortellini at Trattoria da Pietro, a family-run gem where every bite feels like a warm embrace.
  • Discover the secrets behind the perfect espresso at Caffè Pedrocchi Museum, where coffee charm meets your inner caffeine enthusiast.
  • Venture to the surrounding Euganean Hills and experience a wine tasting tour at Villa Lussana, a hidden gem offering divine local wines.
  • Relish a deliciously satisfying dinner at Ristorante al Fagiano, where traditional Venetian cuisine meets contemporary flair.
Day 3

Hidden Gems and Cultural Delights

  • Begin your day with a stroll along the picturesque Riviera degli Ponti Romani, marveling at the ancient Roman bridges and charming waterside views.
  • Dive into the literary world at Café Sartori, where Hemingway once found inspiration and you can enjoy a cup of coffee with a side of nostalgia.
  • Explore the breathtaking botanical gardens of Orto Botanico, an enchanting haven blooming with rare plants and tranquil pathways.
  • Step into the surreal world of anatomy at the Museum of Pathological Anatomy, where preserved specimens offer a unique glimpse into the human body.
  • Unwind with an authentic gelato from Gelateria di Prato, where creamy flavors tantalize your taste buds and transport you straight to gelato nirvana.
  • Conclude your Padua adventure with a delightful dinner at Il Desco, a Michelin-starred restaurant that weaves magic into every dish.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Padua, Italy by plane is to fly to Venice Marco Polo Airport and then take a train to Padua. There are direct train services from the airport to Padua that take approximately 30-40 minutes.

Car

If you are driving to Padua, take the A4 motorway from Milan or Venice and exit at Padova Est. From there, follow the signs to the city center. Be aware that Padua has a limited traffic zone (ZTL), where access is restricted to certain hours and days.

Train

If you are already in Italy, the best way to get to Padua by train is to take a regional train from Venice, Milan, or Bologna. Padua has its own central train station called Padova Centrale, which is well connected to other major cities in Italy.

Boat

Padua is an inland city and not accessible by boat. The nearest port is Venice, where you can take a train or bus directly to Padua.

Bus

The best way to get to Padua by bus is to take a coach from Venice or Florence. There are several coach companies offering direct and indirect services to Padua, and the journey time varies depending on the route you choose.

Destination

Padua

Located just a stone's throw away from a certain famous city with a leaning tower, Padua offers travelers the chance to experience the charm and culture of Italy without having to dodge crowds of selfie-stick wielding tourists at every corner. Plus, their gnocchi game is on point.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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