Padua
Padua is one of those underrated Italian cities that quietly surprises you. It’s tucked away in the northeast of the country, not far from Venice, and has this chill university-town vibe mixed with loads of history. With just over 200,000 people living there, it feels cozy but still full of life.
The weather’s pretty nice too — nothing extreme. On average, temperatures hover around 13°C (55°F) over the year, with warm summers and cool but manageable winters. You’ll probably want a light jacket most of the time, unless you’re there in July or January.
Tourists are catching on, though — around 2 million visit Padua every year. It’s a mix of culture, science, art, and local lifestyle that draws people in. It’s a place that’s authentic and full of stories without trying too hard.
If you’re thinking of going, spring or early autumn is the sweet spot. Less crowds, better weather, and perfect for wandering.
Pizza
Prato della Valle
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Arriving to Padua
Padua is one of those Italian cities that flies a little under the radar, but once you’re there, you wonder why it isn’t on everyone’s bucket list. It’s tucked into the Veneto region, super close to Venice, so getting there is easy. If you’re coming by plane, Venice’s Marco Polo Airport is the nearest major hub — from there, it’s just a quick train or bus ride. If you’re already traveling through Italy, Padua is really well-connected by train, especially from cities like Milan, Bologna, Florence, or Verona. Trains run regularly and don’t take long, which makes it a great stop even for a few days.
Once you arrive, the city is totally walkable and welcoming. If you want to be in the middle of everything, look for a place to stay around Centro Storico — it’s full of charm, cobblestone streets, and all the historic buildings. For something a little quieter but still central, neighborhoods like Santa Croce or Prato della Valle are great picks too. They’re close enough to the action, but offer a more laid-back vibe, especially in the evenings.
Getting around Padua is super chill. You can do a lot on foot, but if you’re not up for walking all day, there’s a solid network of trams and buses that’ll get you where you need to go. If you’re into biking, the city is pretty bike-friendly too, with rental options that are easy to sort out. Honestly, a mix of walking and public transport is all you need to explore without stress.
Now, let’s talk food — because Italy, right? Padua’s cuisine is comforting, local, and absolutely delicious. You’ll find hearty dishes based on meat, fresh pasta, and risottos, plus polenta in all kinds of forms. Don’t skip the local wines, especially if you’re chilling out with a traditional plate of “bigoli” (thick pasta). And hey, aperitivo is a thing here too — grab a spritz and some snacks in the late afternoon like the locals do.
There’s a lot to see for a city this size. It’s packed with art, science, and history — museums, ancient churches, and even one of the world’s oldest universities. But it’s not all sightseeing. Sit at a café in one of the piazzas, catch an outdoor concert if you’re lucky, or take a boat ride along the canals. The real magic of Padua is in those small, everyday moments that feel totally Italian.
Accomodation
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Currency: The official currency of Padua is the Euro (EUR). 1 € is equivalent to 1.09 USD.
Keep in mind before travelling to Padua
Padua might not be the first Italian city that pops into your head, but trust me — it’s packed with good energy, local charm, and more traditions than you’d expect. This university city knows how to keep things interesting all year round, especially when it comes to festivals.
One of the biggest highlights is Festa di Sant’Antonio in June — a massive celebration for the city’s patron saint, with religious processions, concerts, and fireworks. Then there’s Giostra della Rocca in September, a historical reenactment with medieval costumes and parades. Don’t miss Padova Jazz Festival in November or the Fiera di San Martino in autumn, which is all about food and street markets. In spring, Fiera di Primavera brings flower markets and artisan stalls, while Notte Bianca in July lights up the city with concerts and shops open late. And for something quirky, the Festival della Scienza e Curiosità mixes knowledge with fun workshops.
If you want to explore beyond Padua, you’re in luck. Cool day trips include Venice, Verona, Vicenza, Treviso, Chioggia, and the Euganean Hills. They’re all under 90 minutes away and totally worth the detour. Whether you’re into art, nature, or just Italian cafés in random piazzas, this area’s got you covered.
Tips to visit Padua
Padua might be small, but it’s full of personality. People from here are called “padovani”, and they’re usually warm, direct, and proud of their city. A friendly “ciao” or “buongiorno” is all you need to start a convo — throw in a smile and you’re set.
The main language is Italian, of course, but you’ll also hear a bit of Venetian dialect in casual chats. In touristy spots or around university areas, English is pretty common too.
People in Padua usually eat around 1–2 p.m. for lunch and 8–9 p.m. for dinner. Most shops open around 9 a.m., close for lunch, then reopen in the afternoon until about 7:30 p.m..
Tipping isn’t expected, but leaving around 5–10% for great service is appreciated. Italy has a public healthcare system (SSN), so locals are covered.
Dress is casual but put-together — Italians love looking neat. You’ll often hear “Dai!” (Come on!) or “Che figata!” (How cool!) when chatting around town.
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