Padova (province) Travel Guide

Discover all the best things to do, see, and experience in Padova (Province) with our ultimate travel guide. From must-see sights to hidden gems, find everything you need to plan your trip


Welcome to Padova (Province), the hidden gem of Veneto, Italy! With its rich history, stunning architecture, fascinating cultural heritage, and lush natural surroundings, Padova (Province) is a traveler’s paradise. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, there’s something for everyone in this charming Italian province. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore all the best things to see, do, and experience in Padova (Province), including top attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, transportation options, and much more.

Introduction to Padova (Province)

Padova (Province) is a province in the Veneto region of Northeast Italy. It is situated in the heart of the Veneto plain and encompasses a rich variety of landscapes – from rolling hills and verdant plateaus to fertile plains and tranquil rivers. Padova (Province) is also home to several charming medieval towns, historic cities, and quaint villages that are steeped in history and culture.

List of Places to Visit in Padova (Province)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Padua Cathedral
  • Scrovegni Chapel
  • Palazzo della Ragione
  • Santo Stefano Church
  • Museo Antoniano
  • Loggia della Gran Guardia
  • Palazzo Bo
  • Villa Pisani
  • Castello del Catajo
  • Villa dei Vescovi
  • Abbey of Santa Giustina

Natural Attractions of Padova (Province): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Euganean Hills Regional Park
  • Colli Euganei National Park
  • Brenta River
  • Adige River
  • Bacchiglione River
  • Praglia Abbey
  • San Daniele Monastery
  • Villa Emo
  • Villa Leonardis
  • Museo del Cappello di Monselice
  • Battaglia Terme

Hiking/Biking Routes of Padova (Province)

  • Ring of the Euganean Hills
  • The Watermill Trail
  • The Hill Trail
  • Brenta River Bike Trail
  • Bacchiglione River Bike Trail
  • Adige River Bike Trail
  • Colli Euganei Bike Trail

Best Things to Do in Padova (Province): Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tasting Tour in the Euganean Hills
  • Guided City Tours of Padua, Montagnana, and Este
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Colli Euganei
  • River Rafting in the Brenta River
  • Cooking Classes in Traditional Venetian Cuisine
  • Visits to Local Farms and Producers of Cheese, Wine, and Olive Oil
  • Bike Tours to the Medieval Villages of the Euganean Hills

Week-Long Itinerary for Padova (Province)

Day 1: Arrival and Check-in Day 2: Explore Padua and visit Scrovegni Chapel, Palazzo della Ragione, and Padua Cathedral. Day 3: Hike to the top of Colli Euganei Regional Park, stop at scenic viewpoints, and visit San Daniele Monastery. Day 4: Visit the medieval walled city of Montagnana and have lunch at a local trattoria. Day 5: Take a bike ride along the Brenta River and visit Villa Pisani and Castello del Catajo. Day 6: Soak in the thermal waters of Battaglia Terme and enjoy a spa day. Day 7: Departure from Padova (Province)

Food and Drink Scene of Padova (Province)

Must-Try Dishes

  • Risotto alla Padovana
  • Bigoli con la Salsa
  • Baccalà alla Vicentina
  • Fegato all Veneziana
  • Polenta e Osei
  • Risi e Bisi
  • Sarde in Saor
  • Spritz Aperol

Local Beverages

  • Prosecco di Valdobbiadene
  • Soave Classico
  • Amarone della Valpolicella
  • Torcolato
  • Grappa
  • Cicchetti (small tapas-style dishes)

Where to Stay in Padova (Province): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Grand’Italia
  • Hotel Plaza
  • Albergo Orologio
  • Hotel M14
  • Four Points by Sheraton Padova
  • Locanda Al Rio
  • Agriturismo Al Gallo Nero
  • Villa Corner della Regina

What to Buy in Padova (Province): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Prosciutto
  • Grana Padano Cheese
  • Biscotti di Prato
  • Wine from Colli Euganei and Valpolicella
  • Olive Oil
  • Handmade Venetian Masks
  • Italian Leather Goods

Local Culture and Customs of Padova (Province)

  • Respect for elders and authority figures is highly valued.
  • Families are central to Italian culture, with traditions and gatherings often involving several generations.
  • Italian meals are a leisurely and social affair, with courses spread out over several hours and wine flowing generously.
  • Greetings are an important part of Italian culture, with hugs, kisses, and handshakes common.
  • Dress code in churches and other sacred sites is conservative, with knees and shoulders covered.

Best Time to Visit Padova (Province)

The best time to visit Padova (Province) is during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the temperatures are milder and crowds are thinner. However, summer (June to August) is also an excellent season to visit if you don’t mind crowds and higher prices.

Do’s and Don’ts of Padova (Province)

Do:

  • Learn some basic Italian phrases before your trip.
  • Dress appropriately, especially in churches and other religious sites.
  • Try the local cuisine and wines.
  • Explore the countryside and medieval towns.
  • Embrace the slow pace of life and take time to relax.

Don’t:

  • Assume everyone speaks English.
  • Wear revealing clothing in sacred sites.
  • Tip excessively in restaurants.
  • Forget to carry cash, especially in smaller towns and villages.
  • Ignore local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Padova (Province)

Padova (Province) is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and few safety concerns. However, as in any place, travelers should take common precautions such as watching their belongings in crowded areas and avoiding poorly-lit streets at night.

Health in Padova (Province)

Padova (Province) has a high standard of healthcare facilities, with several public and private hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. However, travelers should always carry travel insurance that includes emergency medical care.

Getting to Padova (Province): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Padova (Province)

  • Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE)
  • Treviso-Sant’Angelo Airport (TSF)
  • Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN)

Bus Stations Near Padova (Province)

  • Padua Bus Station
  • Montagnana Bus Station
  • Este Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train: Padua is well-served by trains, with connections to major cities in Italy and Europe.
  • Rental Car: Traveling by car is a great option for exploring the countryside and smaller towns.

How to Get Around in Padova (Province)

The best way to get around Padova (Province) is by car, bike, or public transportation. Bike rental services are available in most towns and villages, and the provinces are well-connected by regional buses and trains.

Where to Go Next from Padova (Province): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Venice (35 km)
  • Verona (86 km)
  • Lake Garda (108 km)
  • Asolo (36 km)
  • Soave (59 km)
  • Bassano del Grappa (53 km)

Conclusion

Padova (Province) is a charming and diverse destination that offers something for everyone. With its stunning natural surroundings, rich history and culture, local food and wine scene, and easy accessibility, it’s not surprising that Padova (Province) is quickly becoming one of the most popular destinations in Veneto. We hope that this guide has provided you with all the information and inspiration you need to plan your trip to this hidden gem in Northeast Italy.



    Padua