Padova: The Complete Guide

Padova (Padua), a beautiful university city in northern Italy, offers a range of inviting areas for visitors to stay, each suited to different travel styles and interests. One of the most popular and convenient areas is the Historic City Center, particularly around Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori. Staying here puts you within walking distance of the Scrovegni Chapel, the University of Padua, and the Basilica of Saint Anthony. The narrow cobbled streets are lined with cafés, shops, and architectural landmarks, making it a lively and atmospheric base. For elegant comfort right in the heart of the city, consider Hotel Majestic Toscanelli, a boutique hotel that offers easy access to both culture and cuisine.

For travelers who prefer a quieter yet still central experience, the Prato della Valle area is a strong choice. This enormous elliptical square—one of the largest in Europe—is surrounded by peaceful residential streets, green spaces, and impressive monuments. The nearby Basilica of Saint Anthony adds to the historic charm of the neighborhood. It’s an ideal location for those who want to enjoy leisurely walks and visit sacred sites while staying close to restaurants and tram lines. A stylish and welcoming option in this area is Hotel Al Prato, known for its spacious rooms and serene atmosphere.

If you’re arriving by train or planning frequent day trips to Venice or Verona, the Padova Railway Station area is worth considering. While it’s more modern and functional than picturesque, the area offers excellent transport connections and is only a short walk from the city center. It’s also typically more budget-friendly, with a good selection of mid-range hotels and business accommodations. One reliable option for comfort and convenience is Hotel Grand’Italia, a refined hotel housed in a historic building just opposite the station.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Padova. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Padua in Spring: March to May (Best)

Spring is the best time to visit Padua. The city awakens with mild temperatures, blooming gardens, and a pleasant energy that makes exploring on foot particularly enjoyable. Daytime highs range from 15°C in March to around 23°C by May. Outdoor spaces like the Botanical Garden and Prato della Valle become especially inviting during this time. Padua also hosts cultural events such as the Fiera di Primavera (Spring Fair) and various university-sponsored festivals, celebrating the city’s vibrant academic life. Tourist crowds remain light, and prices for accommodation are generally reasonable compared to peak summer.

Padua in Summer: June to August

Summer in Padua is warm and lively, with temperatures often climbing above 30°C in July and August. The long daylight hours and open-air cafés create a festive atmosphere. While many locals leave for the seaside in August, the city remains active with cultural programming. Visitors can enjoy events like the Padova Jazz Festival Summer Edition and outdoor film screenings in the piazzas. However, the heat and increased tourist numbers make midday sightseeing less appealing. Early morning walks and evening strolls are the best ways to enjoy the city in this season.

Padua in Autumn: September to November

Autumn is a charming and quieter time to visit Padua. September still carries a summer-like warmth, while October and November bring cooler temperatures and golden foliage. Highs range from 26°C in early autumn to about 11°C in November. The city celebrates the harvest season with food and wine events, including local markets showcasing chestnuts, mushrooms, and regional wines. Cultural institutions launch new exhibitions and academic events as the university term begins. The crowds are thinner, making it an ideal time for those who prefer a relaxed pace.

Padua in Winter: December to February

Winter in Padua is cool, with average temperatures between 0°C and 8°C. While snow is rare, crisp air and festive decorations give the city a magical charm during the holidays. December is particularly atmospheric with the Fiera di Santa Lucia and Christmas markets in Piazza Capitaniato. Epiphany processions and winter concerts also draw both locals and visitors. January and February are the quietest months for tourism, ideal for museum visits and enjoying Padua’s café culture without the crowds. It’s a peaceful season for reflective travel and indoor cultural exploration.

Getting to Padua (Padova) in Italy is quite straightforward due to its well-connected transport network. Whether you’re coming from within Italy or from international locations, here are the best ways to reach Padua:

By Air

• Nearest Airports: The nearest major airport is Venice Marco Polo Airport, which is about 40 kilometers away. Treviso Airport, mainly served by low-cost airlines, is also relatively close, about 50 kilometers from Padua.
• Airport Transfers: From Venice Marco Polo Airport, you can take a direct bus or a combination of a bus and a train to reach Padua. The journey typically takes about an hour. From Treviso Airport, you can take a bus to Treviso train station and then a train to Padua.

By Train

• From Major Cities: Padua is well-served by Italy’s extensive train network. High-speed trains (Frecciarossa and Italo) and regional trains connect Padua to major cities like Venice (about 25 minutes), Milan (about 2 hours), Florence (about 2 hours), and Rome (about 3-4 hours). The train station in Padua is centrally located and connects you to various parts of the city.
• International Connections: There are also direct international trains from cities like Munich, Germany.

By Bus

• Domestic and International Buses: Numerous bus companies operate services to Padua from various Italian cities as well as from other European countries. This can be a cost-effective option, especially for those traveling from nearby countries.

By Car

• Driving: If you prefer to drive, Padua is accessible via the A4 motorway, which is one of the main motorways in northern Italy, connecting Turin, Milan, Verona, Venice, and Trieste. Padua has several exits off the A4, making it easy to get into the city.
• If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

By Boat

• Canal Navigation: Though less common, Padua is connected by canals to the Venetian Lagoon, and it’s possible to reach the city by boat from Venice. This makes for a scenic but less conventional route.

Once in Padua, the city’s compact historical center makes it easy to explore on foot, or you can use local buses and trams to get around. The city is pedestrian-friendly, with many of the main sights located within walking distance from the train station.