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Best Things to Do in Padua

Explore Padua’s Historic Highlights

Padua (known as Padova in Italian) is renowned for having a high number of spectacular churches, basilicas and other religious sites within a compact, concentrated area. While they can be somewhat modest from the outside, these historic sites hold incredible masterpieces and unexpected delights.

Scrovegni Chapel (Cappella degli Scrovegni)

Padua’s greatest artistic treasure: the Scrovegni Chapel (Cappella degli Scrovegni). From the outside, the small chapel is unassuming, but step inside and you’re surrounded by Giotto di Bondone’s stunning frescoes.

Painted between 1303 and 1305, the Scrovegni Chapel (also known as the Arena Chapel) is one of Italy’s most celebrated artistic wonders. Commissioned by the wealthy banker Enrico Scrovegni and dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it was built on the site of a former Roman amphitheatre. Giotto’s remarkably well-preserved frescoes cover the interior walls entirely, depicting biblical stories and religious figures in vivid detail with bold, vibrant colours.

Careful restoration over the centuries has protected the frescoes from humidity and the effects of time, allowing visitors to experience them much as they appeared over 700 years ago. Because the chapel is small, visits are strictly timed – around 15 minutes – with only 25–30 people allowed inside at once. Before entering, visitors are shown an introductory film which means you can understand the paintings, their sequence and meaning. 

Considered a turning point in Western art, Giotto’s work introduced naturalism, spatial depth and emotional realism through shadowing, expressions and lifelike gestures. Today, the Scrovegni Chapel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised as a masterpiece that profoundly influenced European art.

• Advance booking required: You’ll need to reserve your visit online or by phone. Same‑day tickets aren’t available online, so make sure to book at least 24 hours in advance. You can book online here.
• Opening hours: Daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.
• Price: Full price ticket €15 + €1 online booking fee (Concessions available). Tickets can be paid by debit/credit card or by bank transfer if booked by phone. Bank transfer reservations must be made at least three days in advance.
• Combined Tickets: Standard tickets include entry to the Scrovegni Chapel + Eremitani Civic Museums. From Tuesday to Sunday, tickets also cover Palazzo Zuckermann. If you’re in Padua on a Monday, you can still visit the chapel, but Palazzo Zuckermann will be closed.

Church of the Eremitani (Chiesa degli Eremitani)

Just next door to the Scrovegni Chapel is the Church of the Eremitani (Chiesa degli Eremitani), a beautiful Romanesque church slightly tucked away from the city’s main street, Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi. It has all the hallmarks of a classic Italian church – opulent marble columns, ornate sarcophagi, sweeping arches and statues of saints watching from every corner – leading your gaze down the long, straight nave to the grand altar.

My eyes were immediately drawn upward to the vaulted ceiling, where a perfect grid of wooden beams stretches overhead in striking symmetry. For me, though, the real gems in the Church of the Eremitani are the surviving fresco fragments, originally created by 15th-century Italian painter Andrea Mantegna, whose work can also be found in the Louvre in Paris and the National Gallery in London.

The frescoes were heavily damaged during a bombing on 11th March 1944, when nearby German barracks were targeted and the church became collateral damage. Amazingly, around 88,000 fragments of the frescoes were salvaged from the rubble and, decades later, painstakingly cleaned, catalogued and reconstructed through the ambitious “Project Mantegna.” Today, you can see the results of this extraordinary effort: vast black and white panels, punctuated with bursts of colour, like a giant puzzle still in progress. 

Basilica of St Anthony of Padua (Basilica di Sant’Antonio)

While you’re in Padua, you can’t miss the Basilica of St Anthony of Padua (Basilica di Sant’Antonio), one of Italy’s most important pilgrimage sites. Its cluster of domes and spires rise dramatically above the streets, guiding you towards the entrance like a beacon. Inside you’ll find a fascinating blend of architectural styles – Romanesque foundations, Gothic arches, and Baroque flourishes. You’ll find chapels richly decorated with gold and marble, peaceful cloisters, and the tomb of St Anthony of Padua, which draws visitors from all over the world.

Take your time to explore the side chapels and admire the frescoes, and don’t miss the reliquary, which holds relics connected to the saint. Even if you’re not religious, the sense of devotion and the reflective atmosphere are really powerful. Remember to dress modestly, as this is an active place of worship.

Soak Up the Atmosphere in Charming and Bustling Piazzas

No visit to an Italian city is complete without sitting in a beautiful historic piazza, enjoying an ice-cold Aperol Spritz or beer (or a coffee), doing some people-watching and tucking into some delicious food. Luckily, Padua has plenty of piazzas to choose between.

Piazza della Frutta & Piazza delle Erbe

Make your way towards Padua’s historic market heart: Piazza della Frutta and Piazza delle Erbe. These piazzas have been trading hubs for centuries, and they’re still full of colour and noise. Stalls overflow with seasonal fruit, vegetables, cheese, and cured meats, while locals greet each other and haggle over prices.

Located between the two piazzas is Palazzo della Ragione, a medieval masterpiece that has stood at the heart of civic life for centuries. Built in the early 13th century, this vast structure – nicknamed Il Salone (“the big hall”) – once served as the town hall, law courts, and a bustling covered market.

Today, the Palazzo forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrating Padua’s 14th-century fresco cycles. Architecturally, the building is striking, with its distinctive roof shaped like an upturned ship. And if you’re not completely frescoed out by this point, you should visit the upper hall to admire the artwork. Stretching over 80 metres in length, it is one of the largest surviving medieval halls, its walls covered in frescoes depicting scenes from Padua’s golden age.

Either Piazza della Frutta or Piazza delle Erbe would be a great spot to grab lunch. There are dozens of cafés bordering the piazzas, offering full meals alongside lighter options like tramezzini (Italian sandwiches) and bar snacks. I personally recommend La Folperia. This tiny, much-loved stand serves fresh fulpeti (tender, boiled baby octopus), a traditional Paduan and Venetian snack. If octopus isn’t your thing, La Folperia also offers fried seafood, grilled squid, prawns, and sardines. Their seafood sells out quickly, so it’s best to get there early.

Prato della Valle

My favourite piazza in Padua is Prato della Valle, one of the largest public squares in Europe. This vast oval space, surrounded by canals and elegant statues, feels more like a park than a traditional piazza. Wide grassy areas, tree-lined paths and open walkways invite you to slow down, while locals walk their dogs, jog along the canal, picnic on the grass or sit chatting on benches. It’s a wonderfully relaxed place to experience everyday life in Padua, especially as the light softens and the square fills with people unwinding after the day.

Encircling the square are 78 statues representing scholars, artists, leaders and legendary figures connected to the city’s history. Arranged in two concentric rings around the canal and the central island, Isola Memmia, they were commissioned in the late 18th century to celebrate Padua’s intellectual and cultural heritage. Among the most famous faces are Dante Alighieri, author of The Divine Comedy; Francesco Petrarca, a key figure of early humanism; Galileo Galilei, often called the father of modern astronomy and physics; Antonio Canova, the celebrated Neoclassical sculptor; and Alessandro Volta, the physicist who invented the electric battery.

Wander Padua’s Atmospheric Streets

Padua is wonderfully photogenic, with canals winding through the city and slipping beneath its bridges, and elegant arcaded streets combining beauty with everyday practicality. Beneath the shelter of the porticoes, students zip past on bicycles, locals stop for an espresso at corner cafés, and independent shops spill onto the pavement.

If you’re in the mood for a slow, scenic stroll, a lovely route runs from Prato della Valle to Ponte Gregorio Barbarigo. While Padua’s bridges and canals each have their own charm, this medieval bridge is particularly striking. Framed by pastel-coloured facades and ivy-draped walls, it makes the perfect photo stop – especially in the softer light of late afternoon. Beyond Ponte Gregorio Barbarigo, the city’s waterways continue to impress, from the leafy paths and historic homes lining the Piovego Canal to the old harbour atmosphere of Portello and the Battaglia Canal, part of an ancient hydraulic network bordered by traditional houses.

Explore the Historic University 

One spot not to miss in Padua is the University, where centuries of history unfold in a mix of grand courtyards, richly furnished rooms, and faded murals. Founded in 1222, it’s the second‑oldest university in Italy still operating in its original form, and its alumni list reads like a roll call of Europe’s great thinkers. Galileo Galilei taught here for nearly two decades, and over the centuries the university has welcomed figures like Copernicus, Erasmus of Rotterdam, Torquato Tasso, Ugo Foscolo, and even the infamous womaniser Giacomo Casanova.

This is also where Elena Cornaro Piscopia became the first woman in the world to earn a PhD in 1678. Her statue sits quietly at the foot of the staircase, a subtle but powerful detail many visitors miss. Inside, more than 3,000 stone coats of arms cover the walls and ceilings, giving the place an almost storybook quality – like stepping onto a Harry Potter film set.

To really appreciate the university, it’s worth joining one of the official guided tours (available in English and Italian; tickets can be bought on site). These are often the only way to access some of the most impressive interior spaces, including the historic lecture rooms, the library, and the famous anatomical theatre.

Unwind in Padua’s Botanical Garden

Near the University is the Orto Botanico di Padova, the world’s oldest academic botanical garden and another of Padua’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Founded in 1545, it’s a pretty, peaceful spot to surround yourself with medicinal plants, greenhouses, and shaded paths.

• Price: Full price ticket €10. Concessions available. 
• Opening times: These change with the seasons – check the latest schedule here to plan your visit.
• Combined tickets: Available for the Botanical Garden and all University of Padua Science sites – check out the options here. 
• Free audio guide: Available in Italian, English, and German, it is a tour through the Old Garden, the Biodiversity Garden and the Botanical Museum, accessed by QR code on your smartphone.

How Long to Stay in Padua

You can easily see Padua’s main highlights in a single day, especially if you stick to the historic centre. It’s a compact, walkable city, perfect for dipping in and out of museums, churches, and cafés. Just keep in mind that Padua can get seriously hot in summer, so if you’re visiting on a day trip, make good use of the shady porticoes and take plenty of breaks. 

Staying overnight lets you experience the city at a slower, more enjoyable pace. Once the day‑trippers head home, Padua shifts into a softer, more intimate rhythm. Students and locals gather in the squares for aperitivo, and the atmosphere around Piazza dei Signori and the university district becomes especially lively.

Padua Itineraries (1 Day / 2 Days)

One Day in Padua

If you’re visiting Padua for just one day, the most logical route begins with the Scrovegni Chapel and the nearby Church of the Eremitani. From there, wander over to Piazza della Frutta, Piazza delle Erbe, and the Palazzo della Ragione, the lively heart of the historic centre. After lunch, make your way to the Basilica of St Anthony of Padua, one of the city’s most important religious sites, before finishing your day with a stroll through Prato della Valle. End the afternoon with a peaceful canal walk towards Ponte Gregorio Barbarigo, a lovely spot for photos as the light softens.

Two Days in Padua

If you have two days to explore, you can take things at a more relaxed pace. On Day 1, follow the same route as the one‑day itinerary: begin at the Scrovegni Chapel and the Church of the Eremitani, continue through Piazza della Frutta, Piazza delle Erbe, and the Palazzo della Ragione, and then spend the afternoon visiting the University of Padua.

On Day 2, start with the Basilica of St Anthony of Padua before heading to the Botanical Garden. Afterwards, wander over to Prato della Valle and finish your visit with a canal walk towards Ponte Gregorio Barbarigo.

This structure gives Day 1 a compact, walkable loop through the historic centre, while Day 2 unfolds in a smooth line through the basilica, gardens, piazza, and canals – all without any backtracking.

Where to Stay in Padua

If you want somewhere comfortable, well‑located, and good value in Padua, the best areas to stay are around the historic centre, near Prato della Valle, or close to the University district. All three give you easy access to the main sights on foot, plenty of cafés and restaurants, and a relaxed, local atmosphere.

DC Hotel International is a reliable choice with modern rooms and easy transport links, while Camera Tua – Padova Centro & Ospedale offers bright, well‑kept spaces right near the historic centre. For something simple and comfortable, Amikales Rooms and A Un Passo dall’Ospedale both make great bases, especially if you want to be close to the university district and main sights. Travellers who prefer staying near the basilica often choose Hotel Casa Del Pellegrino, a classic hotel with an unbeatable location, and Scrovegni Room & Breakfast is ideal if you want to be within walking distance of the city’s top museums and the Scrovegni Chapel.

What to Eat in Padua

Padua’s food is rooted in simplicity, tradition, and a celebration of ingredients from the surrounding countryside. Here are some dishes to look out for:

• Bigoli – Padua’s signature pasta: thick, rustic strands, a little rough in texture. That slight roughness makes them perfect for holding onto rich sauces. The most classic versions are bigoli all’anatra (with slow‑cooked duck ragù) or bigoli in salsa (with sardines or anchovies, olive oil, and onion).
• Fulpeti – A local snack of tender, boiled baby octopus that’s wonderfully soft and full of flavour.
• Gallina padovana – A local chicken breed, prized for its flavour. Often prepared simply, boiled or in broth, letting the quality of the meat speak for itself.
• Faraona in tecia – Guinea fowl cooked slowly in a pan with herbs, wine, and sometimes pancetta. Common in Padua and the surrounding countryside, especially in cooler months.
• Gnocchi del giovedì – Soft potato dumplings traditionally eaten on Thursdays in Padua, usually served simply with butter and sage or a light tomato sauce.
• Risotto – Creamy rice cooked slowly with broth until it reaches that perfect balance of richness and softness. Look out for risotto al radicchio, made with bittersweet radicchio, a winter staple in Padua.
• Spongiotti – A local sweet treat, little sponge‑like pastries that are soft, airy, and lightly sweetened. They’re often dusted with sugar and sometimes filled with cream or jam. 

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Practical Tips Before You Go

When to Visit Padua

The best times to visit are spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October), when the weather is pleasant and the city feels lively without being overwhelming. Summers can be hot and humid, while winter is quieter and atmospheric, though some attractions have shorter hours.

Tourist Cards

If you’re planning to stay in Padua for a couple of days, it might be better to buy the 48-hour or 72-hour Urbs Picta Card (priced at €28 and €35, respectively). This tourist pass includes entry to many of the city’s major cultural sites, such as the Scrovegni Chapel, Palazzo della Ragione, Oratorio San Michele, Church of Saints Philip and James (Eremitani), the Basilica of St Anthony, the Oratory of San Giorgio, the Chapel of the Royal Palace of Carrara, and the Baptistery of the Cathedral.

Several of these attractions close on Mondays or non‑holiday Mondays, so it’s worth checking opening times when planning your visit.

Opening Days & Times

As you might have noticed above, many of Padua’s major museums and cultural sites are closed on Mondays, including the Scrovegni Chapel, the Eremitani Civic Museums, and Palazzo Zuckermann. Religious sites such as the Basilica of St Anthony of Padua remain open, but if you’re planning museum visits, it is a good idea to avoid Mondays.

Getting to Padua by Train

Padua is one of the easiest cities in northern Italy to reach.

• Venice to Padua: around 25-30 minutes
• Verona to Padua: about 1 hour
• Bologna to Padua: roughly 1 hour

You can compare train timetables and book your tickets on Omio. Trains arrive at Padova Centrale, which is close enough to walk to the historic centre or reach by a short tram ride.

Getting Around the City

Padua is very compact, with most major sights within the historic centre, connected by covered arcades that make walking pleasant in any weather. Cycling is popular thanks to flat terrain and student-friendly infrastructure, and trams and buses are available if you don’t want to walk or are short on time. 

Is Padua Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! If you’re based in Venice or another nearby city and want a break from the crowds, Padua is one of the best nearby alternatives. It works well as a day trip, but staying overnight gives you time to explore beyond the highlights and enjoy the city at its most atmospheric.

Planning a trip to Italy? Check out my Emilia-Romagna 7-day itinerary, and individual travel guides to Bologna, Ravenna and Modena.

Ciao for now

Izzie, the Curious Sparrow