Padua

Day 1: Historical Wonders of Padua

Morning Activity:
Visit the Scrovegni Chapel

• Description: Start your journey with a visit to the stunning Scrovegni Chapel, famous for its frescoes by Giotto, depicting biblical stories.
• Estimated Duration: 1.5 hours
• Tip: Book tickets in advance to avoid long lines. It's best to visit in the morning to enjoy fewer crowds.

Lunch Suggestion:
Trattoria da Nino

• Description: Enjoy local Padovan cuisine at this charming trattoria known for its risotto and house-made pasta.
• Estimated Duration: 1 hour

Afternoon Activity:
Explore Prato della Valle

• Description: Stroll around Prato della Valle, one of the largest squares in Europe, adorned with statues and surrounded by beautiful gardens.
• Estimated Duration: 1.5 hours
• Tip: Bring a book or enjoy a gelato from a nearby vendor.

Evening Activity:
Dinner at Ristorante Il Duca

• Description: Delight in regional dishes such as bigoli pasta with duck sauce.
• Estimated Duration: 2 hours

---

Day 2: Art and Culture

Morning Activity:
Visit the Basilica of Saint Anthony

• Description: Explore this magnificent basilica dedicated to St. Anthony, known for its stunning architecture and art.
• Estimated Duration: 1.5 hours

Lunch Suggestion:
Pizzeria Al Duomo

• Description: Try their famous wood-fired pizzas, a local favorite.
• Estimated Duration: 1 hour

Afternoon Activity:
Palazzo della Ragione

• Description: Visit this historic palace to admire its grand hall and impressive frescoes.
• Estimated Duration: 1.5 hours
• Tip: Check if there are any temporary exhibitions during your visit.

Evening Activity:
Attend a Local Opera or Concert

• Description: Check the schedule at Teatro Verdi for any performances during your stay.
• Estimated Duration: 2-3 hours

---

Day 3: Day Trip to Venice

Morning Activity:
Train to Venice

• Description: Take a short train ride to Venice (about 30 minutes). Start exploring the iconic canals and bridges.
• Estimated Duration: 1 hour for travel; 2 hours for exploration.

Lunch Suggestion:
Osteria Al Bacco

• Description: Enjoy fresh seafood dishes typical of the Venetian cuisine.
• Estimated Duration: 1 hour

Afternoon Activity:
St. Mark's Basilica and Doge’s Palace

• Description: Visit these iconic landmarks, marveling at their stunning architecture and history.
• Estimated Duration: 2.5 hours
• Tip: Book skip-the-line tickets if possible.

Evening Activity:
Dinner at Osteria da Fiore

• Description: Dine at this Michelin-starred restaurant, known for its exquisite Venetian dishes.
• Estimated Duration: 2 hours

---

Day 4: Culinary Delights of Padua

Morning Activity:
Cooking Class

• Description: Join a local cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Padovan dishes.
• Estimated Duration: 3 hours

Lunch Suggestion:
Enjoy your homemade lunch from the cooking class.

• Estimated Duration: 1 hour

Afternoon Activity:
Visit the Market in Piazza della Frutta

• Description: Experience the vibrant local market, perfect for picking up fresh produce or local handicrafts.
• Estimated Duration: 2 hours

Evening Activity:
Wine Tasting at Enoteca dei Frari

• Description: Sample regional wines in a cozy wine bar setting.
• Estimated Duration: 1.5 hours

---

Day 5: Nature and Relaxation

Morning Activity:
Euganean Hills Hiking Tour

• Description: Enjoy a guided hike through the picturesque Euganean Hills, taking in the stunning landscapes.
• Estimated Duration: 3 hours

Lunch Suggestion:
Osteria Il Pavaglione

• Description: A quaint eatery offering rustic dishes made from local ingredients.
• Estimated Duration: 1 hour

Afternoon Activity:
Visit Arquà Petrarca

• Description: Explore this charming medieval village and visit the house of poet Petrarch.
• Estimated Duration: 2 hours
• Tip: Don’t miss the olive oil tasting at a nearby mill.

Evening Activity:
Dinner at Ristorante La Finestra

• Description: Enjoy a cozy dinner featuring local specialties and seasonal ingredients.
• Estimated Duration: 2 hours

---

Day 6: The Beauty of the Brenta Riviera

Full Day Activity:
Tour to the Venetian Villas and the Brenta Riviera

• Description: Discover the historical villas along the Brenta Canal, once the summer residences of Venetian nobility.
• Estimated Duration: 6 hours
• Tip: Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture.

Lunch Suggestion:
Lunch included in the tour.

Evening Activity:
Dinner at Ristorante Caffe Pedrocchi

• Description: Dine in a historic café that has been a Padova institution since 1831.
• Estimated Duration: 2 hours

---

Day 7: Departure and Souvenirs

Morning Activity:
Visit the Botanical Garden of Padua

• Description: Explore one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Estimated Duration: 1.5 hours

Lunch Suggestion:
Trattoria Da Baffo

• Description: Enjoy traditional pasta dishes in a relaxed setting.
• Estimated Duration: 1 hour

Afternoon Activity:
Last-Minute Shopping and Relaxation

• Description: Spend your last afternoon picking up souvenirs or relaxing at a local café.
• Estimated Duration: 2 hours

Evening Activity:
Transfer to Venice Marco Polo Airport

• Description: Arrange a private transfer to the airport for your departure.
• Estimated Duration: 1 hour

---

Summary

This 7-day itinerary in Padua balances historical exploration, culinary experiences, nature, and cultural immersion, ensuring a rich and diverse experience of both the city and its surroundings. From the stunning frescoes of Giotto to the serene Euganean Hills, you will leave with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for this beautiful part of Italy.