Two days in Padua is enough time to see the main sights without it turning into a gruelling marathon. Group the sights by neighbourhood, allow for a bit of leeway in case of bad weather, and don’t plan any important tours straight after an overnight coach journey.
Check opening times, events, accessibility and tickets on the official tourism website: these details change more often than the attractions themselves.
Day one: the historic centre
Start with the Basilica of St Anthony and Prato della Valle, then walk on to the historic centre and the Palazzo della Ragione. In places of worship, please observe the dress code and maintain silence.
Day two: museums and other areas
On the second day, visit the Scrovegni Chapel (by prior booking only), then explore the university quarter and the botanical gardens, depending on the season.
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How to set a realistic pace
Plan to spend half a day at one main paid attraction, and leave the rest of the time for the streets, the quays and short stops. If a booking is required, factor in the journey time from your previous location. After a long journey, it’s better to scale back your itinerary than to rush through unfamiliar areas.
Early or late arrival
Check in advance whether you can leave your luggage at your accommodation, and check the route from your exact drop-off point. Start your morning itinerary with open spaces rather than a museum with fixed opening hours. For evening arrivals, save public transport timetables and the hotel’s contact details offline.
Transport and navigation
Download an offline map, and mark the bus station, your accommodation and your return departure point. The city centre is often convenient for walking routes, but a museum or hill further out may require transport. Compare single and day tickets using the current fares from the local operator.
Budget and meals
Set aside a separate budget for transport, one or two paid attractions and any unexpected travel costs. For lunch, head away from the most touristy square and check the menu before ordering. Water and a small snack will help you avoid having to change your route because of queues.
Preparing for a coach journey
Keep your ticket, passport, mobile phone and any necessary medication in your hand luggage. Allow plenty of time for your return journey: the name of the town is no substitute for the exact address and platform. Check out our tips on offline maps and preparing your mobile for a trip abroad.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a city tourist card?
It isn’t automatically worth it. Only count the museums and trips you’ll actually have time for, and check the terms and conditions on the official website.
What should I do if it rains?
Keep one museum alternative in mind, but don’t cram all your visits into a single day: you’ll still need to get around the city between them.