Being in the shadows of Venice has its ups and downs. The disadvantage is that Padua sometimes gets ignored. On the flip side, that means that its visitors can enjoy a nice and quiet visit without the hustle and bustle from its famous neighbor. Although only an hour away from Venice, Padua seems a world apart with its medieval marketplaces, fascist era buildings and Italy’s second oldest University. Not to forget that it is also the resting place of Saint Anthony, the patron saint of the illiterate, the poor, the finder of lost things, and of blessed weddings. Be sure not to get lost and walk in the footsteps of Galileo, Giotto, St. Anthony or Titian and discover why this city challenged both Venice and Verona for regional hegemony.
You will see:
Piazza dei Signori
Torre dell'Orologio
Palazzo della Regione
Piazza della Frutta
Piazza dell'erbe
Via Santa Lucia
Palazzo Bo
City Hall of Padua
Pratto della Valle
Orto Botanico
Basilica de San Antonio
Palazzo Zabarella
Catedral de Santa Maria Assunta
You will learn about:
Foundation legend by trojans
Roman period
Christianization
The sack of Attila the Hun
Arrival of the Goths and the Lombards
The Franks and Episcopal rule
Rise of the Commune
Building of St. Antony’s Basilica
Founding of the University of Padua
Venetian rule
Austrian Habsburg rule
The unification of Italy
World War I
The rise of fascism
World War II and the bombing of Padua
At the Torre dell'Orologio tower
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.
The Scrovegni Chapel is famous for its stunning frescoes by Giotto, which are considered some of the most important works of the early Renaissance.
The Padua Cathedral is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Saint 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.
Prato della Valle is one of the largest squares in Europe and is surrounded by beautiful statues and a picturesque canal.
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.
A traditional Paduan risotto made with a spiced sausage called tastasal, which is a mix of pork, garlic, and spices.
A dish of duck ragout with bigoli, a type of thick spaghetti, served with a rich duck sauce.
Sweet rice fritters, a traditional dessert from Padua, often filled with cream or jam.
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.
Euro (EUR)
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
230VV, 50HzHz
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.
Padua Railway Station
Padua Bus Station
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.
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Car, Bike, Scooter
Venice is a unique and romantic city built on water, known for its canals, gondolas, and historic architecture.
Verona is a historic city known for its Roman amphitheater, medieval architecture, and as the setting of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.
Vicenza is a city known for its Palladian architecture and historic landmarks, including the famous Teatro Olimpico.
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