Table of Contents
| You have never been to Padua if… FOOD – You haven’t tasted traditional spunciotti with Spritz! ATTRACTIONS – You didn’t visit the marvellous Cappella degli Scrovegni! SOUVENIRS – You didn’t bring home the Amarettoni di Sant’Antonio, a typical Paduan pastry! |
Introduction
Padua, a charming city in Northern Italy, is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture. Known for its medieval architecture, prestigious university, and vibrant piazzas, Padua is perfect for a day trip from Milan, Venice or Verona.
Whether you’re an art lover, history enthusiast, or a foodie (this is the city of world famous Spritz!), Padua has something to offer. In this guide, we’ll explore in the KeepMoosing way what to see in Padua in 1 day, ensuring you make the most of your visit.
Read our article here if you want to know where to eat and where to have an aperitivo in Padua or here about what to see in 1 day in Vicenza!
Leave your comments and suggestions in the comment box below and we’ll be happy to help!
How to Get to Padua
By Train
Padua is easily accessible by train, as it is well-connected to many major cities in Italy. The Padova Railway Station is located just a short distance from the city center, making it a convenient option for those traveling by train.
High-speed trains such as Frecciarossa and Italo connect Padua with cities like Milan, Venice, and Rome, making it a perfect base for exploring the region. From the station, you can reach most attractions on foot or via public transport in just a few minutes. Check here your trains.
By Car
If you’re traveling by car, Padua is easily accessible from various parts of Italy. It is located about 40 kilometers west of Venice, and 30 kilometers north of Vicenza. The city is connected by major highways like A4 (Milan-Venice) and A13 (Bologna-Padua), making it simple to drive there from nearby cities. Keep in mind that parking in the city center can be challenging, so it’s a good idea to use Hotel Giotto’s private parking for a hassle-free stay (21€).
Check here if you’re planning to rent a car for your trip in Veneto Region with DiscoverCars.com!
By Plane
The nearest airport to Padua is Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE), located about 40 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus or a train to Padova Railway Station, which takes around 45 minutes.
Another option is Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN), about 80 kilometers away, with train connections to Padua. Once you arrive at the train station, you can easily reach the city center in just a short walk or bus ride.
What to See in Padua in 1 Day
Morning: Cappella degli Scrovegni and Basilica of Saint Anthony
Start with the Cappella degli Scrovegni
Kick off your day with a visit to the Cappella degli Scrovegni, home to Giotto’s famous frescoes that depict the life of Christ. This UNESCO-listed masterpiece is a must-see for art lovers.
Tickets cost €16 per person, which also includes entry to the adjacent Musei Civici agli Eremitani. It’s essential to book your visit well in advance via the official website.
If you want to come prepared to enjoy the majesty of Giotti’s work, we recommend this book, which delves into the master’s extraordinary oeuvre.
After marveling at the chapel, explore the Musei Civici, which house works by Tintoretto, Tiziano Vecellio, Giotto, Canova and other renowned Italian artists.
The museum also offers fascinating insights into Padua’s archaeological and artistic heritage.
Visit the Basilica of Saint Anthony
Next, head to the Piazza del Santo, home to the Basilica of Saint Anthony, one of Italy’s most significant pilgrimage sites.
Entry is free, and highlights include the saint’s tomb, the Chapel of Relics, and the peaceful cloisters. The basilica’s stunning architecture and religious significance make it a must-visit.
Afternoon: Palazzo della Ragione and Piazza delle Erbe, della Frutta e dei Signori
Piazza delle Erbe and Palazzo della Ragione
After lunch (read our article about where to eat in Padua), explore Piazza delle Erbe, a bustling square surrounded by historic buildings and market stalls.
Visit the Palazzo della Ragione, an architectural marvel that served as Padua’s medieval law court. The upper floor often hosts art exhibitions (we saw a temporary exhibit by Yoko Ono), while the ground floor features artisan shops and local produce stands.
Piazza della Frutta and Piazza dei Signori
From Piazza delle Erbe, take a short stroll to Piazza della Frutta, another lively square brimming with local charm.
Continue to Piazza dei Signori, where you can admire the striking Torre dell’Orologio (Clock Tower). This picturesque area is perfect for soaking up Padua’s vibrant atmosphere.
Sunset: Prato della Valle
Prato della Valle
As the sun sets, make your way to Prato della Valle, one of the largest squares in Europe (It is very reminiscent of the Plaza de Espana in Seville, read our article about it here).
Surrounded by a canal and adorned with statues, this expansive piazza is a peaceful spot to end your day. The lighting at dusk adds a magical touch, making it an ideal location for photos.
Optional Visits: Palazzo Bo and Orto Botanico
If you have extra time during the day, consider visiting Palazzo Bo, home to the University of Padua, and the nearby Orto Botanico, the oldest university botanical garden in the world. These sites offer a deeper dive into Padua’s rich academic and scientific history.
Check here for more activities!
Where to Stay in Padua
For a comfortable and convenient stay, we recommend Hotel Giotto, located in Piazza Pontecorvo, just a 10-minute walk from the main attractions. This hotel offers an excellent value for money, with clean and comfortable rooms perfect for a short stay in the city.
Additionally, the hotel has a private parking area available for €21 per day, making it a great choice if you’re traveling by car.
While breakfast at the hotel is available for an additional cost, we suggest heading to San Michele Sud Experience, a nearby patisserie located at Via Michele Sanmicheli, 1, 35123 Padova PD.
Just a few steps from the hotel, this delightful spot offers a wide variety of pastries, coffee, and breakfast options. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make it a fantastic way to start your day before exploring Padua.
What to Read Before Leaving to Padua
Before setting out to explore the architectural wonders and charming streets of Vicenza, we recommend picking up Lonely Planet: Venice and the Veneto. While the guidebook primarily focuses on Venice and its surrounding region, it offers valuable insights and suggestions for Padua as well.
Travel Tips from KeepMoosing
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Conclusions
Our day in Padua was filled with unforgettable sights, from the awe-inspiring Giotto frescoes to the serene Prato della Valle. Padua’s unique blend of art, history, and lively piazzas make it a destination worth exploring.
We hope this guide inspires you to plan your own day trip to this incredible city. Have you visited Padua? Share your favorite spots in the comments below!
- Don’t forget to book your tickets for the Cappella degli Scrovegni in advance!
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