When I first arrived in Padova, I was taken by surprise. Tucked away in the Veneto region, just a “short” train ride from Venice, this city is often overlooked by travellers. But, let me tell you, Padova offers a perfect introduction to Italy’s history, culture, and cuisine – without the overwhelming crowds.
A Walk Through History
Wandering through Padova feels like stepping back in time. The city’s historical charm is palpable from the moment you set foot in the old town. One of the first places I recommend visiting is the Basilica of Saint Anthony, or “Il Santo” as locals call it. This stunning basilica is not only an architectural masterpiece but also one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Italy.
Not far from there, you’ll find the Prato della Valle, a vast and picturesque square that’s actually the largest in Italy. It’s the perfect place to sit, relax, and watch the world go by – something I found myself doing more than once during my stay.
But my personal favourite? The Scrovegni Chapel. It’s a small, unassuming building on the outside, but inside, it houses one of Italy’s most breathtaking works of art – Giotto’s frescoes. The vibrant colours and intricate details left me in awe, and it’s an absolute must-see for art lovers.
The Culture of Caffè and Aperitivo
If you’re anything like me, part of the joy of travelling is immersing yourself in local culture, and in Padova, that means indulging in the city’s café scene. Italians have perfected the art of enjoying life, and nowhere is this more evident than in their approach to coffee and aperitivo.
Start your day with a stop at Caffè Pedrocchi, one of the oldest and most famous coffee houses in Italy. I can’t recommend their signature drink, Caffè Pedrocchi, enough – it’s an indulgent blend of coffee and mint cream, a flavour combination I never expected to love so much.
As evening falls, make your way to the local piazza for an aperitivo. My favourite spot is Piazza delle Erbe, where I would sip a Spritz, the classic Venetian cocktail, and sample local snacks like cicchetti. It’s the perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring, and there’s no better way to feel like a local.
Hidden Gems Worth Discovering
Of course, Padova has its hidden gems, and finding them is half the fun. One spot I stumbled upon by chance was the Botanical Garden, the oldest university garden in the world. It’s a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, with beautiful plant collections that date back centuries.
Another off-the-beaten-path treasure is the Palazzo della Ragione, an impressive medieval town hall with a rooftop market underneath. Inside, the frescoed hall is enormous, and the views from the terrace are incredible. I didn’t expect to spend so much time here, but it quickly became one of the highlights of my trip.
A Taste of Padova
Now, let’s talk food – because you can’t visit Italy without indulging in its cuisine, right? Padova may not be as famous as Bologna or Naples when it comes to food, but trust me, it holds its own.
I had my first taste of bigoli, a thick spaghetti-like pasta served with duck ragù. It’s a local speciality, and every bite was pure comfort food. Another dish I couldn’t get enough of was baccalà alla vicentina, a creamy salt cod dish that’s typical of the region. The flavours were rich yet delicate – definitely worth seeking out.
To round off any meal, don’t skip dessert. Pazientina, a traditional Padovan cake made with almond and chocolate, became my go-to sweet treat. It’s the perfect way to finish a meal, especially with a shot of espresso.
Plan Your Bespoke Padova Adventure
Padova is a city that invites you to slow down, savour each moment, and discover Italy in a way that feels authentic and unhurried. From its historical landmarks and hidden gems to its delicious cuisine and café culture, there’s so much to experience here.
If you’re dreaming of a trip to Italy but want something a little different from the usual tourist trails, Padova is the perfect choice. And the best part? I can help you craft the perfect bespoke itinerary to make sure you don’t miss a thing. Whether you want to focus on history, food, or something unique, I’ll make sure your trip is tailored to you.
Ready to explore Padova? Get in touch today, and let’s start planning your unforgettable Italian adventure.