Ultimate 3-Day Padua Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

Start your adventure at the Scrovegni Chapel, home to Giotto’s breathtaking frescoes and a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Be sure to book your entry in advance for this masterpiece of early Renaissance art.

Scrovegni Chapel

Stroll through the lush Giardini dell'Arena, a lovely park surrounding the chapel, and enjoy a tranquil start to your Padua exploration.

Giardini dell'Arena

Marvel at the lively atmosphere and impressive architecture of Palazzo della Ragione, the medieval city hall with its famous market halls and a ceiling covered in allegorical frescoes.

Palazzo della Ragione

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Enoteca da Giulio, a beloved local spot for authentic Venetian cicchetti and regional wines, tucked away just off Piazza delle Erbe.

Enoteca da Giulio

As dusk settles, relax at Caffè Pedrocchi, Padua’s legendary 19th-century literary café, and savor their signature mint coffee in an elegant neoclassical setting.

Caffè Pedrocchi

Begin at the grand Basilica of Saint Anthony, a place of pilgrimage with a spellbinding blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Byzantine architecture. Don’t miss the cloisters and the ornate Chapel of the Relics.

Basilica of Saint Anthony

Wander to the peaceful Orto Botanico, the world’s oldest university botanical garden (est. 1545), featuring exotic plants and rare medicinal herbs.

Orto Botanico

Visit the historic University of Padua, one of the world’s oldest universities, and take a guided tour to see Galileo’s lecture hall and the magnificent Anatomical Theatre.

University of Padua

Refuel at Trattoria al Prato, a cozy eatery near Prato della Valle, serving classic Paduan dishes like bigoli pasta and baccalà.

Trattoria al Prato

End your day in the magical Prato della Valle, Italy’s largest square, ringed by statues and canals—perfect for an evening stroll and people-watching.

Prato della Valle

Discover the frescoes and Romanesque charm of Church of the Eremitani, an often-overlooked gem that’s home to Mantegna’s renowned works and a peaceful cloister.

Church of the Eremitani

Stop for a pastry and espresso at Pasticceria Racca, a family-run bakery beloved by locals for its fresh brioche and sweet treats.

Pasticceria Racca

Browse the stalls and soak in the lively vibe of Mercato delle Erbe, Padua’s bustling produce market, perfect for sampling cheeses, olives, and local specialties.

Mercato delle Erbe

Lunch at Osteria L’Anfora, a historic tavern with exposed beams and a menu featuring house-made risotto and local wines.

Osteria L’Anfora

End your Padua adventure in the canalside district of Quartiere Portello, a lively university neighborhood known for its vibrant street art, scenic river walks, and relaxed aperitivo bars.

Quartiere Portello