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If you have done the things to do in Italy, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Padova.
Nestled in the heart of Veneto, Padova is a captivating city that embodies the art, history and beauty of Italy.
From stunning frescoes to ancient architecture, the city is a treasure trove of cultural gems waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re on a leisurely stroll along the meandering canals, admiring the exquisite works of art at a museum, or savoring the delectable local cuisine, Padova will tantalize all your senses and leave you yearning for more.
Here are some of the best things to do in this enchanting city!
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Padova:
1. Basilica of Saint Anthony
Basilica of Saint Anthony is a stunning Catholic church in Padova, Italy. It is known for its beautiful Byzantine architecture and spectacular artworks.
What to see or do: Admire the mesmerizing Byzantine-style domes and arches of the basilica, which are adorned with intricate mosaics. Visit the tomb of Saint Anthony, which is located inside the church and attracts many pilgrims.
Marvel at the impressive bronze statue of the saint, created by Donatello in the 15th century.
Don’t miss: The Scuola del Santo, which is an adjacent building that houses an impressive collection of artworks dedicated to Saint Anthony. Here you can see countless paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts related to the life of the saint.
Insider travel tips: – If you want to attend mass at the basilica, arrive early to secure a seat.
2. Scrovegni Chapel
The Scrovegni Chapel is a small chapel in Padova, Italy, that is famous for its invaluable frescoes painted by Giotto di Bondone in the early 14th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can see 40 frescoes painted by Giotto that depict the life of the Virgin Mary and Jesus.
The frescoes cover the entire interior of the chapel, from the walls to the ceiling, and showcase Giotto’s mastery of the art form.
Don’t miss: The most famous fresco in the chapel is the Lamentation of Christ, which depicts Jesus’ body being mourned by his followers.
This particular fresco is considered a masterpiece of Western art and is a must-see for visitors.
Insider travel tips: – Visitors must book tickets in advance, as only a limited number of people are allowed in the chapel at any given time.
3. Prato della Valle
Large elliptical square located in the center of Padova, Italy.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll around the square and admire the beautiful statues and gardens.
Don’t miss: The 78 statues lining the outer edges of the square, the central fountain surrounded by a moat, and the weekly market held on Saturdays.
Insider travel tips: Visit the square in the early morning or late evening to avoid crowds. Bring a picnic and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the gardens.
Take a gondola ride around the moat for a unique perspective on the square.
4. University of Padova
The University of Padova is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Italy, founded in 1222.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the historic buildings and beautiful courtyards of the university, as well as its many museums and collections. The university also offers a range of cultural events, such as lectures, exhibitions, and concerts.
Don’t miss: The Anatomy Theatre, which was constructed in the 16th century and was the site of public dissections and anatomical demonstrations.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the morning to avoid the crowds.
5. Palazzo della Ragione
Palazzo della Ragione is a historic building located in the heart of Padova, Italy. It dates back to the 13th century and was once used as a courthouse.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore Palazzo della Ragione’s grand architecture and marvel at the massive wooden roof structure. The building is currently used for art exhibitions, conferences, and cultural events.
Don’t miss: The famous frescoes on the walls and ceilings of the upper floors that depict the zodiac signs and the liberal arts.
Insider travel tips: Visit on a sunny day, so you can see the beautiful light shining through the windows and illuminate the frescoes.
6. Orto Botanico di Padova
Orto Botanico di Padova is the oldest academic botanical garden in the world. It was founded in 1545 and is located in Padua, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the garden which spans over 22,000 square meters and is home to around 7,000 plant species.
There are several sections within the garden such as the medicinal plants section, the garden of biodiversity and the evolution garden.
Don’t miss: One of the most famous attractions within the garden is the Orto dei semplici, which is a small garden that contains many species of medicinal plants.
Another must-see is the greenhouse which houses various tropical and aquatic plants.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid crowds, it is best to visit the garden in the morning or on a weekday.
7. Caffè Pedrocchi
Caffè Pedrocchi is a historic café located in the heart of Padova, Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the elegant neoclassical architecture and interior decor of the café, while sipping on a delicious coffee or enjoying a light snack.
Don’t miss: The famous “Pedrocchi’s Zabaglione”, a traditional dessert made with egg yolk, sugar, and sweet Marsala wine.
Insider travel tips: Don’t be afraid to ask the knowledgeable staff for recommendations on what to order. Also, be sure to visit the upper floors of the café for a unique view of the city.
8. Padua Cathedral
Padua Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, is a beautiful Roman Catholic cathedral located in the heart of Padua, Italy.
What to see or do: The cathedral is a popular tourist attraction due to its stunning architecture, impressive artwork, and historical significance. Visitors can admire the beautiful exterior of the cathedral, with its intricate façade and large bell tower.
Inside, you’ll find beautiful frescoes, paintings, and sculptures, as well as impressive chapels and altars.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the magnificent Chapel of Saint Mary of the Sacred Garden, which is decorated with stunning 14th-century frescoes by Altichiero da Zevio.
Also, don’t miss the high altar, which is made of beautiful Carrara marble and dates back to the 16th century.
Insider travel tips: If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy the cathedral in peace, visit early in the morning or on a weekday.
Also, be sure to dress appropriately for a religious site. Finally, consider taking a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and significance of this remarkable cathedral.
9. Museo Nazionale di Palazzo Zabarella
Museo Nazionale di Palazzo Zabarella is an art museum housed in a magnificent Renaissance palace in Padova.
What to see or do: The museum boasts an impressive collection of artworks from the 14th to the 18th century, including masterpieces by Italian Renaissance artists such as Bellini, Giorgione, and Tintoretto.
Visitors can also admire beautiful frescoes and sculptures adorning the palace’s grand rooms.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the museum’s prized possession, the iconic Allegory of Virtue by Paolo Veronese.
This monumental canvas stretches across the ceiling of the palace’s Sala del Maggior Consiglio, showcasing the artist’s exceptional ability to create dazzling illusionistic effects.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, visit the museum during weekdays or opt for a private tour. Make sure to also check out the museum’s temporary exhibitions showcasing contemporary art and photography.
After your visit, take a stroll through the picturesque historic center of Padova and enjoy the city’s lively student vibe.
10. Piazza dei Signori
Piazza dei Signori is the main square of Padova, Italy, and has been the political and administrative center of the city since Medieval times.
What to see or do: The square is surrounded by important buildings such as the Loggia della Gran Guardia, Palazzo del Capitanio, and Palazzo della Ragione.
Visitors can enjoy a walk through the square to admire their architecture and historical significance.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the Clock Tower (Torre dell’Orologio) which stands tall in the square and is a symbol of Padova.
It has a unique astronomical clock that displays the position of the sun, moon, and planets.
Insider travel tips: Visit the square during the evening when the buildings are lit up, creating a charming and romantic scene. Also, don’t forget to try the famous Spritz drink at one of the nearby bars for a true Padovan experience.
11. Museo del Precinema
A museum dedicated to the early history of cinema and pre-cinematic optical devices.
What to see or do: Explore the extensive collection of rare and unique pre-cinema devices, such as magic lanterns, stereoscopes, and zoetropes. Admire the intricate details and craftsmanship of these fascinating objects that paved the way for modern cinema technology.
Don’t miss: The impressive collection of original films and cameras that date back to the beginnings of cinema. Be sure to also witness the live demonstrations of the pre-cinema devices in action.
Insider travel tips: Visit the museum during the week to avoid crowds and to have more time to appreciate the collection.
Take advantage of the helpful and knowledgeable staff who are happy to provide further information and insights into the museum’s exhibits.
12. Loggia della Gran Guardia
Loggia della Gran Guardia is a historical building in Padova, Italy.
What to see or do: The building serves as a venue for exhibitions, fairs, concerts, and other cultural events. It also hosts a weekly market on Saturdays where visitors can buy local products and crafts.
Don’t miss: Make sure to admire the building’s impressive architecture and take a walk around the surrounding Piazza Cavour.
If you have the chance to attend an event, it is a great opportunity to experience the lively cultural scene of Padova.
Insider travel tips: Check the schedule of events in advance and book tickets if necessary.
The market on Saturday is a great place to try local street food such as porchetta and sweet treats like frittelle.
13. Santa Giustina
Santa Giustina is a magnificent Benedictine abbey located in the city of Padova, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful frescoes, magnificent altars, and stunning gardens at the abbey. The complex also includes a basilica, a crypt, and a museum.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the impressive cupola, which is decorated with beautiful frescoes and is one of the largest in the world.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit the abbey in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. Make sure to dress modestly as it is a place of worship.
Additionally, if you have time, take a stroll around the nearby Prato della Valle, a beautiful public square with stunning fountains and statues.
14. Padua Observatory
The Padua Observatory is a research facility located in the heart of the city of Padova, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the observatory’s exhibits and telescopes, which offer a glimpse into the world of astronomy and astrophysics. There is also a planetarium and a digital theater that projects movies on a 360-degree dome.
Don’t miss: One of the most impressive features of the observatory is its Zeiss telescope, which boasts a massive 18-inch lens and allows for detailed observations of the night sky.
Insider travel tips:
15. Eremitani Civic Museum
Eremitani Civic Museum is an art museum located in the historic city of Padova, Italy.
What to see or do: The museum boasts an extensive collection of art and artifacts ranging from ancient Roman times to the 20th century. Visitors can admire ancient frescoes, sculptures, ceramics, paintings, and tapestries.
The highlight of the museum is the section dedicated to the famous Italian painter Andrea Mantegna, which features his works including the exquisite “Triumph of Caesar” fresco cycle.
Don’t miss: While at Eremitani Civic Museum, do not miss viewing the remains of the Roman Theatre of Padova that were discovered during excavations beneath the building.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, it is best to visit the museum on weekdays in the late afternoon.
Guided tours are also available for those who want to delve deeper into the history and context of the artworks on display.