Introduction

Padua, a city rich in history and culture (read here our article), is equally famous for its culinary traditions. The local cuisine is rooted in hearty, flavorful dishes that reflect the agricultural bounty of the Veneto region.

From bigoli in salsa (thick spaghetti-like pasta in a savory anchovy sauce) to risotto with radicchio or peas, and pastissada (braised horse meat), Padua’s culinary delights are a feast for the senses.

But Padua isn’t just about traditional meals—it’s the birthplace of the Spritz, the iconic Italian aperitivo. Alongside this refreshing cocktail, locals enjoy spunciotti, traditional finger foods similar to Spanish tapas. These small bites and drinks define the lively aperitivo culture, a beloved ritual that brings people together in the early evening.

Whether you’re looking to indulge in a long, luxurious meal or dive into the city’s buzzing aperitivo scene, Padua has plenty to offer. Let’s explore the best spots to enjoy the city’s iconic flavors. You’ll find ✔️ when we tried the place ourselves!

Leave your comments or suggesitons in the box below and we’ll be happy to help!

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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.

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Where to Have Aperitivo in Padua

The aperitivo in Padua is more than just a drink—it’s a cherished tradition. Here are the best spots to enjoy a Spritz with delicious spunciotti:

All’Ombra della Piazza ✔️

• Location: Via d’Abano 6
• Website: allombradellapiazza.com
  Tucked under the arches near the Piazza dei Signori, this cozy spot offers an unbeatable Spritz paired with a wide variety of spunciotti. The warm atmosphere and friendly service make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Al Nazionale

• Location: Piazza delle Erbe, 41
• TripAdvisor: Al Nazionale
  For a lively experience in the heart of Padua, head to Al Nazionale. With outdoor seating perfect for people-watching, this bar serves expertly mixed Spritzes alongside delicious spunciotti like marinated anchovies and crostini.

Bacaro Frascolino ✔️

• Location: Via del Santo, 93
• Website: frascoli.it
  This modern bacaro offers a contemporary twist on traditional Venetian snacks. Their Spritz menu is extensive, and the spunciotti feature creative combinations of local ingredients, all served in a chic yet relaxed setting.

Locanda Peccatorum ✔️

• Location: Via S. Martino e Solferino, 28
• Instagram: Locanda Peccatorum
  Known for its unique charm and authentic vibe, Locanda Peccatorum is a hidden gem. Their spunciotti selection includes cured meats, cheeses, and other regional specialties that pair beautifully with their expertly prepared Spritzes.

Wherever you choose to go, Padua’s aperitivo culture is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Extra-activity

Check here for a guided Spritz tour or a typical wine tasting in Padua.

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Where to Eat in Padua

Padua’s dining scene combines tradition and innovation, with something to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re looking for authentic local dishes or modern takes on Paduan cuisine, here are the top places to dine:

Ristorante Ai Scarponi ✔️

• Location: Via Cesare Battisti, 138
• Website: aiscarponi.it
  Recommended by our dear friends Andrea and Danae, Ai Scarponi impressed us with its warm atmosphere and fantastic food. Their menu is a tribute to Paduan tradition, with highlights like baccalà alla vicentina and seasonal risottos. We tried the bigoli with duck ragu and the baccalà Vicenza-style and can confirm that they were delicious!

TreQuarti Padova ✔️

• Location: Piazza della Frutta, 34
• Website: trequartipadova.it
  We personally dined at this stylish eatery and loved its blend of modern elegance and authentic flavors. The menu offers creative dishes that showcase local ingredients in unexpected ways, making it a must-visit for foodies looking for something unique. We took a break from the spritz with a glass of excellent Valpolicella Ripasso, another local speciality.

La Folperia di Max e Barbara

• Location: Piazza della Frutta, 1
• Instagram: lafolperia_official
  Known for their fresh seafood, Max and Barbara’s food stall in Piazza della Frutta is legendary. Their specialty is folpetti, tender baby octopus cooked to perfection. Though we didn’t get to try it ourselves, it comes highly recommended by locals.

Osteria L’Anfora

• Location: Via dei Soncin, 13
• Instagram: osterialanfora
  For a rustic, authentic experience, Osteria L’Anfora is a great choice. This cozy restaurant serves traditional dishes in a warm, welcoming environment. Expect hearty portions and rich flavors that capture the essence of Padua.

Trattoria San Pietro

• Location: Via San Pietro, 95
• Website: Trattoria San Pietro
  A quintessential trattoria experience awaits at Trattoria San Pietro. Known for its homemade pasta and comforting dishes, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely meal after exploring the city.

No matter which restaurant you choose, Padua’s dining scene promises to delight your taste buds and deepen your appreciation for Veneto’s culinary heritage.

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Conclusions

Padua’s food culture is an experience in itself, offering a rich blend of traditional flavors, innovative twists, and convivial aperitivo traditions. Whether sipping a Spritz in the lively Piazza delle Erbe or savoring a perfectly prepared risotto at Ai Scarponi, every bite and sip tells a story of the city’s deep culinary roots.

For us, the highlights of our foodie adventure in Padua were the warm ambiance at All’Ombra della Piazza and the vibrant aperitivo scene.

We hope this guide inspires you to explore Padua’s food scene, immerse yourself in its flavors, and maybe even try your hand at replicating a Spritz when you return home.

Don’t forget to share your favorite spots in the comments below—we’d love to hear about your culinary discoveries in this charming city!

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