Tour to Villa dei Vescovi and the Valsanzibio Garden

Padua , Italy

Tour to Villa dei Vescovi and the Valsanzibio Garden

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

DEPARTURE FROM PADUA OR ABANO / MONTEGROTTO TERME
We will first set out for the Monumental Garden of Valsanzibio, an immense symbolic garden dating back to the 17th century, which a few years ago was named the Most Beautiful Park in Italy, completely surrounded by the verdant panorama and gentle curves of the Euganean Hills. Here water features, tree-lined avenues, fountains, an intricate labyrinth and statues combine harmoniously in an allegorical path of ‘Salvation’ along which the visitor, passing through various stages, from the Portal of Diana to the Statue of Winged Time to the Dolphin Fountain, is guided in the symbolic liberation from sins.
We will then move on to visit Villa dei Vescovi in Luvigliano di Torreglia: a precious gem set in the Euganean Hills, an ancient holiday residence of the high prelates of Padua dating back to the first half of the 16th century.

Available options

Standard

Pickup included

What's included

Traditional Italian life with your local tour leader

Tour leader

Transfer by minivan

Admission ticket for a visit to the Valsanzibio garden

Insurance and technical organisation of certified travel agency

Admission ticket to Villa dei Vescovi

Detailed itinerary

Known as one of the most beautiful gardens in Italy, the Valsanzibio Garden is world famous. The Garden is located in Galzignano Terme, a small town in the heart of the Euganean Hills. This area, from the beginning of the 14th century, was preferred by the Venetian nobility as the perfect location for their marvellous Venetian Villas: it was a symbol of economic power and, at the same time, an oasis of peace and tranquillity.

Stop 2

A precious gem set in the Euganean Hills. Villa dei Vescovi, the ancient holiday residence of the high prelates of Padua, dates back to the first half of the 16th century and is the result of a series of transformations, decorations and extensions. It will be exciting to be enchanted by the harmonious way in which the building binds itself to the surrounding landscape and by the beauty of the Euganean Hills seen through the great arches of the loggias and the hanging courtyard. Inside the Villa we will pass through the noble rooms, the bedroom, the lounges and the large and luminous hall where our eyes will be gladdened, step by step, by Lambert Sustris' splendid cycle of frescoes with bucolic motifs.

What's not included

Everything not expressly indicated

Available languages

Guide guide

DE PT EN IT ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.8

15 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Padua

Padua is a historic city in northern Italy known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. It is home to one of the world's oldest universities and a vibrant art scene, making it a must-visit for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.

Top Attractions

Scrovegni Chapel

The Scrovegni Chapel is famous for its stunning frescoes by Giotto, which are considered some of the most important works of the early Renaissance.

Historical/Art 1 hour €13 (includes audio guide)

Padua Cathedral (Duomo di Padova)

The Padua Cathedral is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Saint Anthony of Padua.

Religious/Architecture 30 minutes Free (donations welcome)

Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua

This basilica is one of the most important religious sites in Italy and is dedicated to Saint Anthony, the patron saint of Padua.

Religious/Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Prato della Valle

Prato della Valle is one of the largest squares in Europe and is surrounded by beautiful statues and a picturesque canal.

Historical/Landmark 30 minutes Free

University of Padua Botanical Garden

This botanical garden is one of the oldest in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features a wide variety of plants and a beautiful historic greenhouse.

Nature/Historical 1-2 hours €10

Must-Try Local Dishes

Risotto al Tastasal

A traditional Paduan risotto made with a spiced sausage called tastasal, which is a mix of pork, garlic, and spices.

Main Course Contains pork

Bigoli con l'Anatra

A dish of duck ragout with bigoli, a type of thick spaghetti, served with a rich duck sauce.

Main Course Contains duck

Frittelle di Riso

Sweet rice fritters, a traditional dessert from Padua, often filled with cream or jam.

Dessert Vegetarian (check for dairy or egg content)

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby Euganean Hills Biking along the city's bike paths Visiting the University of Padua Botanical Garden Enjoying a coffee at Caffè Pedrocchi Exploring the Scrovegni Chapel Visiting the Basilica of St. Anthony Boating on the Brenta River Visiting the historic cafes and museums

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Padua is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. This period offers pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Padua is a generally safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it is important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
• Use metered taxis or ride-sharing apps to avoid overcharging
• Be cautious of distractions and common scams

Getting there

By air

Marco Polo Airport • 35 km from Padua
Treviso Airport • 60 km from Padua

By train

Padua Railway Station

By bus

Padua Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Padua is extensive and covers most of the city. Buses are the primary mode of public transportation and are efficient and affordable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Storico (Historic Center) Prato della Valle Arcella

Day trips

Venice

35 km • Full day

Venice is a unique and romantic city built on water, known for its canals, gondolas, and historic architecture.

Verona

100 km • Full day

Verona is a historic city known for its Roman amphitheater, medieval architecture, and as the setting of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.

Vicenza

35 km • Half day

Vicenza is a city known for its Palladian architecture and historic landmarks, including the famous Teatro Olimpico.

Festivals

Festa del Santo • June 13 PadovaFiere • Various dates throughout the year

Pro tips

Visit the Scrovegni Chapel early in the morning to avoid long queues and crowds
Explore the historic center on foot to discover hidden gems and local charm
Try local specialties like Risotto al Tastasal and Frittelle di Riso for an authentic culinary experience
Use the bus system for efficient and affordable travel within the city
Consider a day trip to nearby cities like Venice or Verona for a well-rounded Italian experience