10 Best Things To Do In Padua, Italy

1. Cappella degli Scrovegni

One of Giotto’s masterpieces, the paintings inside Cappella degli Scrovegni are worth seeing. Unfortunately you are only allowed a 15 minute visit in their efforts to preserve the amazing paintings. Because of that, the only way to visit the Cappella is by making a reservation beforehand.

Cappella degli Scrovegni

Address: Piazza Eremitani, 8, 35121 Padova PD, Italy

Website: Cappella degli Scrovegni

2. Palazzo della Ragione

Most of the ground is a farmer’s market that lasts the entire day, only clearing up at evenings. The architecture of the building is impressive, even if you‘re not a connoisseur when it comes to architecture. When you get to the loggia, look up. The ceilings, as well as the walls around are covered with paintings made by Giottos.

Palazzo della Ragione

Address: Piazza delle Erbe, 35100 Padova PD, Italy

Website: Palazzo della Ragione (in Italian)

3. Piazza dei Signori

No better way to enjoy lunch, dinner or simply a drink than by admiring the historic buildings around Piazza dei Signori. Since it’s a rather busy place, it’s also ideal for watching all the people passing by. During the day, the square is occupied by a market. There are many cafes, bars and restaurant to choose from, so just take your pick.

Piazza dei Signori

Address: Piazza dei Signori, 35139 Padova PD, Italy

Website: Piazza dei Signori (in Italian)

4. Palazzo Bò

Bò Palace hosts one of the oldest universities in Europe. Among other attributes, it is also renowned due to the lectures that Galileo held here. You can even see Galileo’s wooden chair here. If you choose the guided tour, plan around 30/40 minutes for the visit. The decorations inside won’t disappoint for sure.

Palazzo Bò

Address: Via VIII Febbraio, 2, 35122 Padova PD, Italy

Website: Palazzo Bò

5. Palazzo Zuckerman

One of the hidden places of Padua, this small museum displays mostly jewelry and furniture from back in history. There are different exhibitions that you can visit, giving you the chance to also see an Egyptian tomb. The collection is beautifully displayed. If nothing else, it will be an opportunity to escape the crowds of tourists, since this is not one of the most visited landmarks.

Palazzo Zuckerman

Address: Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi, 33, 35137 Padova PD, Italy

Website: Palazzo Zuckerman

6. Prato della Valle

Probably the largest square in Europe, Prato della Valle hosts many imposing buildings. There is even a garden in the center with a lovely fountain. All the statues around contribute to a history lesson “on the way”. Prato della Valle is also one of the stops of the city tram, so if you’re tired of walking, you can just go back by tram. During weekends, there are often flee markets organized in the square.

Prato della Valle

Address: Piazza Prato della Valle, 35121 Padova PD, Italy

Website: Prato della Valle (in Italian)

7. Have a relaxing afternoon in Orto Botanico di Padova

Located in the University of Padua, this wonderful botanical garden is part of the UNESCO World Heritage sites. It is the perfect place for a walk. You will get to also learn a lot about plants, as they provide a lot of information on the way. It’s a good mix of modern and classical styles, making it suitable for everyone. It is easily accessible, as it’s located right in the center of the town.

Orto Botanico di Padova

Address: Via Orto Botanico, 15, 35123 Padova PD, Italy

Website: Orto Botanico di Padova

8. St. Anthony’s Basilica

The most impressive part of this Romanesque architecture church is the inside. Highly decorated and full of artwork, it will take your breath away from the moment you get in. The tomb is also one of the highlights of St. Anthony’s Basilica and many tourists arrive here just for that. Expect it to be crowded, especially if you’re traveling in high season.

St. Anthony’s Basilica

Address: Piazza del Santo, 11, 35123 Padova PD, Italy

Website: St. Anthony’s Basilica

9. MUSME - Museum of the History of Medicine of Padova

This modern interactive museum focuses on the history of medicine in this area. It used to be a hospital that was transformed into a museum. It is the perfect museum for families, as it’s guaranteed that your kids won’t get bored. The creative and very original exhibitions transform the educational journey into a fun experience. Did you know that the first dissection in the world happened in Padua?

MUSME - Museum of the History of Medicine of Padova

Address: Via San Francesco 94, 35121, Padua, Italy

Website: MUSME - Museum of the History of Medicine of Padova

10. Opere di strada di Kenny Random

Spread around the old city center, this is graffiti at its best. You will bump into the paintings when you least expect them. Most of the graffiti is life size and depicts creative ideas around the figure of a man and his pet. The artist is nick-named Kenny Random. In real life, he is called Andrea Coppo and is a local artist.

Opere di strada di Kenny Random

Address: Centro storico di Padova, Padua, Italy

Get lost in medieval times in Padua

Padua has an intense medieval vibe all around. No matter if you’re walking around the old town or visiting one of the churches or following the street art of Kenny Random, you will feel like you have arrived in a different world. It’s impossible not to love this small and beautiful Italian town.