Loved the atmosphere of the Centro Storico ... its many cafes, restaurants and the wonderful street market. It is a walkable city and all the sights are within easy reach. Well worth a visit. We were staying in Venice and took the local train to Padua.
The historic center of Padova is worth a visit. It is pedestrian friendly, and rich in architecture and historic interest. The beautiful Prato della Valle, with its is a rare combination of green grass, canals, and marble sculptures, is a wonderful place to relax.
Padua, a small city has more than its share of historical and artistic sites all located in its centro storico (best translated as historical center). A day or two here will be a wonderful treat!
Galileo Galileo lived 18 years of his life in Padua. The University of Padua is one of the oldest universities in the world (the seventh in the world and third in Italy), founded in the year 1222. The Botanical Garden of Padua, one of UNESCO World Heritage site. It is the oldest university botanical garden in the world, founded in 1545. San Antonio had the desire to die in Padua, but died on the way.
We enjoyed walking around the historic downtown, visiting markets and checking out the architecture. We spent two days between the Scrovegni and the basilica - and really enjoyed the city. There are so many options.
If you stay in Venice you should go one day in Padua. Just take the train, it is very close (approx 30 min). Here you can visit the Cappella degli Scrovegni, the old ghetto and many nice churches. You should also visit the two main places divided by a very nice old building : piazza delle Erbe. If you have some time left, go for shopping in the hip street of Padua : Via San Fermo. here you can shopwind Louis Vuitton, Luisa Spagnoli and an old family owned shop called Valigeria Marchesini. When you go inside the smell of real leather is rather strong, but they have the best quality and hand made Italian handbags (women and men), wallets, belts and of course luggage in case you shopped too much :)
It was a very hot day when we were there so we cheated a little and just followed the suggested route in the Dorling Kindersley guide book. I would like to have had longer to take everything in.
Padua or Padova ( as Italians says..) is a wonderful city, modern all around, with famous University, a reference in Medicine, and Medical Treatment. Also an important center of Italian Religious Culture, in reference of Santo Antonio di Padova, one of the most cultivated Saints in the Catholic Church. A lot of pilgrims goes to the Church of Santo Antonio ( Saint Antony of Padua ) to pay promises, pray, and admire the beutifull church and paintings. The TRAM really works, and if you buy a Ticket for all Day, you can ride ANY transportation system ( TRAM, buses, etc..) for 24 hours.) In Centro Strorico ( Hystorical Center ) you can walk freely, no cars are alloud. You can park in 3 or 4 Parking Spaces ( payed)
There is a huge court of justice with large balconies overlooking 2 large street markets (fruit and vegetable plus "stuff") , one on either side, and indoor shops specializing in wonderful local cheeses, hams, fresh meat, cakes, etc etc etc. Beautiful location for buying your picnic ingredients.
Has an amazing atmosphere, both during the day and after dark. All generations are seen strolling around the area together in a safe, elegant and civilised setting.