Padua Italy - Enchantment Awaits

Padua (Padova in Italian) is a prosperous place with a charming old town, lovely parks, and some great cafes and restaurants. It really is a shame that so few tourists ever discover this gem, and those that do only seem to visit the incredible Scrovegni chapel. More on that coming up.

Where to Stay in Padua

There is only one hotel that I can recommend, it is the Hotel Belludi. The Belludi is a small, family-run hotel right in the heart of Padova. Everything about the hotel is excellent, and the price is very reasonable too.

I don't know what it is, but everyone working here seems to absolutely love what they do. Well done to the Belludi family for a really lovely little hotel.

If you can't get into the Belludi then the Hotel Giotto is a great alternative.

Padua has three main claims to fame:

1. The first is the university, which was founded in 1222 and which is one of the oldest in the world. Its location here gives the town a pleasant student town feel.
2. Then their is the 13th century Il Santo, officially the Basilica di Sant'Antonio da Padova. It is the burial site of St Anthony and it is gorgeous. I reckon it's worth coming to Padua just to see this one basilica. 
3.  The other huge attraction is the 14th century Scrovegni Chapel featuring famous frescoes by Giotto. These frescoes have been increasingly damaged over the years by air pollution and a major project of restoration is being undertaken at present. The frescoes remain open to the public.  The chapel is so popular with tourists that you should ideally book in advance – particularly during the summer months of July and August. You can do this through the official Chapel site.
   

Inside the Scrovegni Chapel

What else to see?

St. Anthony, Padua

The Monselice Castle, built in the 13th century is most definitely worth a visit and so are some of the museums in Padova and its surrounds.

I particularly like the Museum of River Boats. River boats have played such a big part in the history of this area and I know nothing about boats so the museum was an interesting learning experience.

The Glass Museum features some beautiful pieces and if you have kids, like me, then I suggest that you take them to Butterfly World where they can walk amongst 400 of the world’s most beautiful butterflies. They claim it is one of the biggest butterfly parks in the world - can't say if that is true though. The other Veneto butterfly park in Santorso claims the same thing.

You must visit the fabulous botanical garden: it is one of the oldest in the world and is a fascinating way to spend a few hours. Do visit the outdoor market next door to the magnificent 12th century Palazzo della Ragione (which is also a must see). The market itself has an outdoor section selling clothes, bags, etc. and an indoor section filled with gourmet delights - join me in the video below for a walk through the market.

There is also the Prato delle Valle: not sure how to describe the Prato delle Valle, it's sort of a huge piazza/park with 78 statues of famous people dating back to the 18th century.  A lovely spot to relax and watch the world pass by.

Details of all these places and useful maps of Padua can be found at the local tourist office, next to the main station. For more photos and info about the city click here.

A Walk Through Padua's Market

Where to Eat?

Trattoria San Pietro in Via S. Pietro, 95 and the Osteria Ai Scarponi Via Cesare Battisti 138 has great options. They are both tiny little restaurants, and you'll need to book because they are hugely popular with locals. It is, however, worth the effort: the food is excellent, and both serve all of the most popular and always delicious local dishes, prepared with only the freshest ingredients.

Getting Around Padua Italy

Padua has a good public transport network, and if you are spending more than 48 hours in the town, get the Padova Card, which costs from €18 upwards, depending on how long you want it for. The card allows you unlimited use of public transport and free entrance to the Scrovegni Chapel and twelve museums in the town. You can get it from the tourist office or from most hotels.

One last thing, or two, to do…

Take a boat trip up the Brenta, not that cheap but it is an interesting and enjoyable day out with plenty to see plus you get a discount if you have the Padova Card.

Then of course there are the famous spas near here so why not go in for a little pampering? Have a look at our spa guide for more.