Here is the essential list of what you can see in three days in this Venetian city full of attractions.
A trip to Padua offers a unique combination of history, art and culture. The city is home to masterpieces such as Scrovegni Chapel with the frescoes of Giottoand the Basilica of Sant ‘Antonioone of the main pilgrimage sites in Italy.
Padua is also home to one of the oldest universities in the world, with the Bo Palace and the first anatomical theatre. The Valley Meadowone of the largest squares in Europe, and theBotanical Garden, a UNESCO heritage site, offer enchanting green spaces. Finally, the local cuisinehistoric cafes and lively squares make Padua a fascinating and unforgettable destination.
Day 1: Historic Center and Art
Morning:
1. Scrovegni Chapel– Start your day by visiting one of the masterpieces of world art. The chapel, frescoed by Giotto, is famous for its magnificent paintings representing the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary.
2. Civic Museums at the Eremitani– Right next to the Scrovegni Chapel, you can explore a vast collection of art, archeology and natural history.
Afternoon:
1. Padua Cathedral and Baptistery– Visit the Cathedral of Padua, dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta, and the adjacent Baptistery, famous for its medieval frescoes.
2. Herbs Square and Fruit Square – Stroll through these historic squares where the market is held. Here you can also find the Palazzo della Ragione, an impressive medieval building with frescoes and a spectacular roof.
Evening:
1. Piazza dei Signori – End your day with dinner at one of the many restaurants and cafes in this lively and picturesque square.
Day 2: Culture and Science
Morning:
1. Basilica of Sant’Antonio – Visit this basilica, one of Italy’s main pilgrimage sites, dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua. Admire the Gothic architecture and beautiful works of art inside.
2. Padua Botanical Garden – Founded in 1545, it is the oldest university botanical garden in the world and a UNESCO heritage site. Here you can see a large variety of rare and medicinal plants.
Afternoon:
1. Valley Meadow – Enjoy a stroll through this huge square, one of the largest in Europe, with its characteristic canal and the statues that surround it.
2. MUSME Science Museum – Discover the history of medicine and science in this interactive and modern museum.
Evening:
1. Dinner in a typical restaurant – Taste Paduan cuisine in one of the many restaurants in the historic center. Try dishes such as Vicenza-style cod, bigoli, or risotto with peas.
Day 3: University and surroundings
Morning:
1. Bo Palace – Historic seat of the University of Padua, one of the oldest in the world. Visit the ancient anatomical theater and the historic classrooms, where Galileo Galilei also taught.
2. Pedrocchi coffee – Stop for a coffee in this historic venue, famous for being “the cafe without doors”, a meeting point for intellectuals and students since 1831.
Afternoon:
1. Jewish ghetto of Padua – Explore this historic neighborhood, with its narrow streets and synagogue. You can also visit the Museum of Jewish Padua.
2. Villa Contarini in Piazzola sul Brenta – If you have time, take an excursion out of the city to visit this splendid Venetian villa, with its gardens and park.
Evening:
1. Evening walk along the Piovego – Relax with a walk along the river that runs through Padua, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the city at sunset.
General Advice
– Transport: Padua is easily explored on foot, but you can also use local trams and buses to get around more quickly.
– Food: Don’t miss the opportunity to try local wines, such as Prosecco and Tocai, and traditional desserts such as fugassa.
– Shopping: For unique souvenirs, visit the artisan shops in the historic center.
Useful information
The official website of the city of Padua is: www.turismopadova.it
Have a nice trip to Padua!
Text and photos by Eugenio Bersani | Reproduction reserved © Latitudeslife.com
