Plan your Perfect 5-Day Getaway to Padua, Italy!
Discover the timeless charm of Padua amidst its palaces, churches and markets.
22 April 2023
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.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
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- Check in at The Small Hotel, a cozy boutique hotel tucked away in the heart of the historic center.
- Savor a delicious panini at Al Duomo, a local favorite sandwich shop located just steps away from the hotel.
- Visit the Basilica di Sant'Antonio, a stunning church that houses the tomb of the beloved saint.
- Stroll along the Prato della Valle, one of the largest squares in Europe and a popular spot for picnics and people watching.
- Indulge in some gelato at Gelateria da Bepi, where you can try unique flavors like fig and ricotta.
- Start the day with a cappuccino and croissant at Caffè Pedrocchi, a historic café with beautiful neoclassical architecture.
- Explore the Scrovegni Chapel, a masterpiece of Italian art with stunning frescoes by Giotto.
- Admire the grand Palazzo della Ragione, a majestic medieval building that once served as the town hall.
- Take a stroll through the beautiful Orto Botanico, a serene botanical garden filled with rare and exotic plants.
- Enjoy a traditional Venetian dinner at Trattoria da Pino, where you can savor dishes like spaghetti alle vongole and baccalà mantecato.
- Take a day trip to Venice, just a short train ride away from Padua.
- Ride a gondola through the iconic canals of Venice and marvel at the beautiful architecture.
- Visit St. Mark's Basilica, a stunning example of Byzantine architecture.
- Explore the Doge's Palace, a former seat of power in Venice that now serves as a museum.
- Enjoy a seafood lunch at Osteria al Portego, a charming restaurant in the heart of Venice.
- Start the day with a traditional Italian breakfast of coffee and pastries at Pasticceria Lovato.
- Visit the bustling Mercato di Padova, one of the largest food markets in Italy.
- Take a cooking class at La Cucina di William, where you can learn to make classic Italian dishes like risotto and tiramisu.
- Sip on aperitifs and delicious small plates at Al Boccalino, a trendy wine bar and restaurant.
- Try some of the best pizza in Padua at Pizzeria Astra, a family-owned restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.
- Visit the ancient Roman theater and marvel at the well-preserved ruins.
- Take a stroll through the historic Jewish Ghetto and learn about the rich history of the Jewish community in Padua.
- Stop by Biblioteca Civica Padovana, a beautiful library with a stunning ceiling mural.
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Ristorante La Montecchia, a charming restaurant located in the countryside just outside of Padua.
- End the day with a glass of local wine at Enoteca Padovana al Fortino, a hidden gem with a great selection of wines.
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.