Weekend Wanderlust: 3 Days in Padua, Italy

Discover the beauty and culture of Padua, Italy's underrated gem.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, a trip to Padua, Italy would be a delightful opportunity to discover the beautiful architecture of the city. Visitors can roam around the elegant Piazza dei Signori, gaze at the ornate frescoes of the Scrovegni Chapel, and tour the world-renowned Padua Botanical Garden. Food connoisseurs can also indulge in the delicious local cuisine while admiring the beauty of the city.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Rediscovering Padua

  • Stay at the charming Hotel Al Cason, a stone's throw away from the city centre's vibrant markets and cafes.
  • Sip on an espresso as you stroll along the Piazza della Frutta, stopping to sample the local produce.
  • Marvel at the sheer size of the Basilica di Sant'Antonio and light a candle for good measure.
  • Indulge in classic northern Italian cuisine at the Osteria al Duomo, famous for its pork infused dishes.
  • End the evening with a glass of Prosecco in the warm ambiance of the Bellini bar.
Day 2

Unraveling the Renaissance

  • Enjoy a sophisticated breakfast at the Galleria Caffè Pedrocchi, dating back to 1831, named after the prominent literary circle that once gathered there.
  • Visit the Palazzo della Ragione, a medieval building turned exhibition centre, home to several exhibitions annually.
  • Stroll down the Prato della Valle, one of Europe's largest public squares, bequeathed with an impressive Francesco Maria da San'ta'Angelo statue.
  • Savour Padua's signature dish of bigoli pasta with duck sauce at the famous Mascareta restaurant.
  • Spend the evening at the historic Teatro Verdi for a night of cultural indulgence.
Day 3

Padua's Wonders

  • Take a boat trip along the waterways of the Horti Leonini garden, pausing only to enamour yourself with the beautiful surroundings.
  • Pay a visit to the Caffè Pedrocchi's second floor, now functioning as a historical museum.
  • Explore Padua's less-explored gems, including the Santa Maria dei Servi church and the Oratorio di San Rocco.
  • Finally, indulge in crispy miniature pizzas called “pizzette” and creamy mozzarella at the Fratelli Bandiera Pizzeria.
  • Finish your trip with a visit to the Spazio Museale Pino Pascali showcasing modern and contemporary art.

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.

More travel plans

Padua, Italy: Family-Friendly Fun on a Budget

Experience the enchanting city of Padua for a perfect family-friendly getaway filled with cultural richness. Explore the historic center and marvel at the stunning architecture, including the famous Scrovegni Chapel adorned with exquisite frescoes. Immerse your family in the city's vibrant atmosphere, wander through charming streets, and indulge in delicious gelato along the way, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Padua's Perfect Day: Glorious Sights, Delicious Bites!

Padua, located in the Veneto region of Italy, is an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip. Known for its rich history, charming streets, and cultural attractions, Padua offers a blend of educational experiences and leisurely activities for all ages. From exploring historical landmarks like the Scrovegni Chapel and Prato della Valle to enjoying a boat ride on the Brenta River, families will create lasting memories in this enchanting city.

4 Day Escape: The Ultimate Padua Adventure

As a tourist, a trip to Padua, Italy offers an opportunity to explore an ancient city with a rich history and a lot of cultural attractions. From the Scrovegni Chapel where tourists can observe frescoes to the Prato della Valle, which is Europe's biggest square, Padua has a lot of sights to offer. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Italian cuisine and have a taste of world-renowned wines.

Plan your Perfect 5-Day Getaway to Padua, Italy!

Padua is a charming city in northern Italy that offers a range of cultural and historical attractions for tourists. Visitors can explore the city's medieval streets, admire the stunning frescoes in the Scrovegni Chapel, and tour the ancient University of Padua, which was founded in 1222. With its beautiful architecture, rich history, and delicious cuisine, Padua is a must-see destination for anyone traveling to Italy.