Padua in Two Days: Art, Historic Squares and Iconic Landmarks

Spending two days in Padua gives you enough time to discover the city’s most celebrated landmarks without rushing. From Hotel Giotto, located close to Saint Anthony’s Basilica, the Botanical Garden and Prato della Valle, you can begin exploring on foot before continuing through medieval streets, elegant squares and world-famous cultural sites.

Day One: Saint Anthony’s Basilica, the Botanical Garden and Prato della Valle

Your first morning in Padua can begin at Saint Anthony’s Basilica, one of Italy’s most important pilgrimage destinations and an extraordinary artistic landmark featuring works by Donatello, Altichiero and other Renaissance masters. Beyond the famous shrine, the peaceful cloisters provide a quieter side of the monument that many visitors overlook.

Just a short walk away lies the University Botanical Garden, founded in 1545 and recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the world’s oldest university botanical garden still occupying its original location, it combines the historic garden with the modern Biodiversity Garden, where visitors can explore ecosystems from around the globe.

Continue your journey through Padua by reaching Prato della Valle, one of Europe’s largest historic squares. The elliptical canal, statues surrounding Isola Memmia and the constantly changing atmosphere make it an ideal place for a relaxing walk. On Saturdays the square hosts a lively market, while antiques are traditionally featured on the second Sunday of each month.

From Saint Anthony’s Basilica to the historic squares

Walking from Prato della Valle towards the centre, visitors pass elegant arcades before arriving at Palazzo Bo, the historic home of the University of Padua. Guided tours include the famous Anatomical Theatre, the Great Hall and other remarkable rooms that reflect centuries of academic history.

A short distance away stands the historic Caffè Pedrocchi, often called the “café without doors” because it once remained open day and night. Nearby, Piazza delle Erbe, Piazza della Frutta and Piazza dei Signori represent the vibrant commercial heart of Padua, where local markets, cafés and historic buildings continue traditions that have shaped the city for centuries.

At the centre of these squares rises Palazzo della Ragione, whose magnificent medieval hall forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visiting this remarkable building offers insight into the civic history of Padua as well as one of Europe’s largest surviving medieval halls.

Day Two: Scrovegni Chapel and the Civic Museums

Your second day in Padua should begin with the Scrovegni Chapel, where Giotto created one of the masterpieces of Western art. Admission is strictly controlled to preserve the frescoes, making advance booking essential, especially during weekends and holiday periods.

The chapel belongs to the UNESCO-listed fourteenth-century fresco cycles of Padua, which unite eight different monument complexes across the city. Understanding this wider artistic network transforms a simple sightseeing visit into a richer cultural experience, revealing how painting, architecture and civic history developed together.

Continue through the Eremitani district

After visiting the Scrovegni Chapel, continue exploring Padua through the nearby Civic Museums and Palazzo Zuckermann. Together they offer archaeological collections, decorative arts, sculptures and historic objects that complement the city’s renowned frescoes and provide a broader understanding of its cultural heritage.

Discover the Portello district

For a different perspective on Padua, walk towards Porte Contarine and the historic Portello district. Once an important river gateway connecting the city with Venice, today the area combines university life, waterways and quieter streets that contrast with the busy central squares.

In the afternoon, return through Via Altinate and the shopping streets. If temporary exhibitions are taking place, Palazzo Zabarella is well worth including in your itinerary, adding another cultural highlight to your stay in Padua.

Plan your two-day itinerary

To make the most of two days in Padua, book timed attractions such as the Scrovegni Chapel and guided visits to Palazzo Bo before arriving. The remaining landmarks can then be explored comfortably on foot, allowing time for cafés, markets and spontaneous discoveries along the way.

• Day 1 morning: Saint Anthony’s Basilica and the Botanical Garden.
• Day 1 afternoon: Prato della Valle, Palazzo Bo, Caffè Pedrocchi and the historic squares.
• Day 2 morning: Scrovegni Chapel and the Civic Museums.
• Day 2 afternoon: Portello district, shopping streets and Palazzo Zabarella.

Why stay at Hotel Giotto?

Hotel Giotto offers an excellent base for discovering Padua at a relaxed pace. Located close to Saint Anthony’s Basilica, the hotel provides comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi and private parking (subject to availability), making it easy to explore the historic centre on foot while avoiding restricted traffic zones.

Need directions before your visit? See our How to Reach Hotel Giotto guide for detailed information on arriving by car, train or public transport.

Frequently Asked Questions