This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Padua.
Padua is located in northern Italy, in the province of Veneto, less than an hour from Venice. So you could consider getting a hostel in Padua and then making a day trip to Venice.
With a network of arcaded streets that meet in large communal squares, a charming old town with narrow streets, a series of quaint little bridges crossing over the Bacchiglione River, and an ancient wall encompassing the city, Padua is a place that has managed to preserve much of its history, to the great pleasure of its visitors.
The best known attraction of the city is the Cathedral of St. Anthony. Built immediately after the death of the saint in the thirteenth century, it is the destination of millions of pilgrims every year. However, the less known St. George's Oratory, a massive hall full of marvelous frescoes and paintings by the students of Giotto, and Scrovegni's Chapel, covered in frescoes by Giotto himself, are also highly recommended.
Padua is home to Prato della Valle, the biggest square in Europe, at ninety thousand square metres. With the Saint Giustina Basilica in the background and with a massive grassy area surrounded by a canal guarded by statues, the square offers not only an excellent opportunity to have a rest after sight-seeing, but is also a unique place to admire Italian art at its best. Moreover, on Saturdays, the square turns into an enormous market, selling everything from clothes to traditional Italian cheeses.
Last, but not least, Padua's Roman ruins are well worthy of a visit as well. Its highlight, the Roman Arena, is well preserved and is located in a lovely park -- and in the summer, it is home to open-air movie screenings.
A visit to Padua cannot be complete without enjoying the gastronomy of the place. A spritz in one of the restaurants with terraces overlooking one of the spectacular piazzas, accompanied by a platter of prosciutto crudo (raw ham) and local cheeses should not be missed!
You will find a Padua hostel to suit any budget, taste, or standard -- this is a great way to take in all Padua has to offer while keeping your costs down.
Written by local enthusiast for Padua hostels
JudyM
