Padua, or Padova in Italian, is a city in the Veneto region of northeastern Italy. Dating back to the Roman era, Padua houses historical and religious attractions like the Basilica di Sant’Antonio, home to several Saint Anthony of Padua relics. But the city is more than a must-see place for Catholics. While reading this post, you’ll discover the best areas to stay in Padua and why you should visit this Italian city.
Accommodation Options in Padua, Italy
Padua has a long history dating back to the Roman era when it was founded in 45 BC as Patavium. Over the centuries, Padua has been under various rules, including the Ostrogoths, Byzantine Empire, and Lombards, before becoming part of the Holy Roman Empire in the Middle Ages. The city’s location on the Bacchiglione River makes it an important economic and communication center.
One of the primary reasons people visit Padua is its rich cultural heritage. The Scrovegni Chapel (Cappella degli Scrovegni) is among the stand-out attractions in Padova. This chapel houses frescoes by Giotto di Bondone, considered one of the most important works in Western painting. Additionally, Padua is famous for its contributions to education and science. The University of Padua, established in 1222, produced prominent alums like Nicolaus Copernicus and Galileo Galilei, who studied there during their lifetime.
In this guide, I’ll go through the best areas to stay in Padua and what makes each unique. I’ll also include information about attractions, transportation, and hotels for a perfect stay in Padova, Italy.
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Padua, Italy?
The City Center is the best area to stay in Padua because it is where you’ll find the most important attractions in town. For example, Prato della Valle, a stunning square surrounded by sculptures, is in the southern part of the City Center. Meanwhile, Capella degli Scrovegni, a chapel with famous frescos, is in the northern part of this district. Staying in the center of Padova will also provide access to the city’s best hotels, restaurants and bars.
Find available accommodation in Padua City Center.
Best Hotels in Padua’s Old Town
- Best 4-star hotel: Hilton Garden Inn
- Best 3-star hotel: Hotel Patavium
- Best budget hotel: Hotel Canton dell’Orto
- Best B&B: Scrovegni Room & Breakfast
- Best serviced apartments: Residenza Emilia
Where to Stay in Padua for Sightseeing
As mentioned, the City Center is the best location to stay in Padua. Yet, Padua City Center is in itself the combination of different areas, each with a different vibe and sights. These are some of the best neighborhoods to stay in Padua, Italy:
- The Old Town is the most charming area to stay in Padua. This area houses the Palazzo de la Ragione, a medieval townhall with a market on its first floor. The Palazzo and the University of Padua give the neighborhood a youthful vibe, with bars and cafeterias that are especially lively at the end of every school day. Some of the best hotels in the OId Town include Le Camp Suite & Spa and the Majestic Toscanelli.
- On the other hand, Prato della Valle, a scenic square with 70 sculptures, is THE Padua postcard par excellence. This square is south of the City Center, and its surrounding area houses several restaurants, small bars, and 3-star hotels like our favorites, Hotel Al Prato and Hotel M14. Staying near Prato della Valle, you’ll also be within walking distance from attractions like the Botanical Garden of Padua and the Basilica di Sant’Antonio.
- Meanwhile, the area surrounding Padova Railway Station stands out for its proximity to the Scrovegni Chapel. This chapel’s impressive frescos, by Giotto di Bondone, represent the life of the Virgin Mary, Christ, and the Last Judgement. In terms of accommodation, you can find cheap hotels and some excellent 4-star hotels like Hotel Grand’Italia and the NH Padova in this area.
Where to Stay in Padua: District by District
1. Old Town (Around Palazzo della Ragione)
The best area to stay in pADUA, ITALY
The Old Town is the best area to stay in Padua since it is close to most of the city’s main attractions. This area also gathers the best hotels in town.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Padua, Italy:
- Heart of the city
- Palazzo de la Ragione
- Best area for sightseeing
Old Town Padua is a charming area located in the city’s heart. This picturesque district is known for its unique blend of rich history and stunning architecture.
As you stroll through the cobblestone streets of this area, you’ll find buildings like the Palazzo de la Ragione. This Medieval town hall is home to a market on its first floor, which sells fresh local products. The surroundings of the Palazzo house shops, authentic Italian restaurants, and bars.
The ancient University of Padua is also in the Old Town. This education mecca is the second-oldest university in Italy and, at some moment, had people like Nicolaus Copernicus among its students. Nowadays, the university’s alums and the neighboring bars give this area a lively, youthful atmosphere, which contrasts nicely with its historical legacy.
Old Town Padua is lively yet relaxed, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to experience authentic Italian culture during their stay. Likewise, getting around is easy thanks to its walkability and many public transportation options. Many tram and bus stations connect the area to other parts of the city.
Regarding accommodation options, in Old Town Padua, you can choose among charming boutique hotels or modern 4-star hotels. Furthermore, there are several tourist apartments in this part of the city.
Best Hotels in Padua Old Town
Hilton Garden Inn Padova City Centre
In a prime location in Padova, Hilton Garden Inn Padova City Centre provides 4-star accommodation close to Palazzo della Ragione and Scrovegni Chapel.
MyPlace Padova Centro Storico
Boasting a central location, less than a 5-minute walk from Padova Cathedral, MyPlace Piazza dei Signori features elegant studio apartments with contemporary décor, parquet floors, and free WiFi.
B&B Al Duomo
In the center of Padova, B&B Al Duomo offers a balcony, air conditioning, free WiFi, and a flat-screen TV. This sustainable bed and breakfast is located 2.7 km from Gran Teatro Geox and 4 km from PadovaFiere.
2. Prato della Valle
Great district to stay in Padua for families
The area around Prato della Valle, the oldest square in Europe, offers a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere. Staying in this area, you’ll also be near other Padua attractions like the Botanical Garden and the Basilica of Santa Giustina.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Padua, Italy:
- Prato della Valle square
- Quiet area
- Padua Botanical Garden
- Connected by public transport
Located in the southern part of the city center, Prato della Valle is one of the largest squares in Europe. This oval square features a beautiful central garden with 78 statues and an elliptical canal. And, since it dates back to Roman times, there have been a series of purposes for the square and its surrounding area.
Over the centuries, there has been a Roman amphitheater, a medieval market, and a Renaissance fairground in Prato della Valle. But, today, it is mainly known for its relaxed atmosphere and beauty, making it one of the most photographed places in Padua.
But the area is more than its stand-out square. Staying near Prato della Valle, you’ll also be close to the Basilica of Santa Giustina, which houses stunning religious art while providing breathtaking views from its terrace. Likewise, adjacent to the square lies Orto Botanico di Padova, the oldest botanical garden in the world.
This is the best location in Padua for families since it offers a quieter environment near beautiful attractions. In addition, bus lines A and M connect this area with the rest of Padua. Padua Train Station is about 20 minutes away on foot or a short bus ride for easy train access.
There’s a wide range of accommodation near Prato della Valle. So, you should choose between luxury hotels, cheap accommodations, and apartments.
Best Hotels Near Prato della Valle
Methis Hotel & SPA
Set on the banks of the Naviglio River, Methis Hotel & SPA is just outside Padua’s historic center, near Galileo’s Specola Observatory. It offers modern, stylish rooms and a well-equipped gym.
Hotel Casa Del Pellegrino
Hotel Casa Del Pellegrino is in Padua center, next to Sant’Antonio’s Basilica. It offers air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, a satellite TV, and views of the garden or the cathedral.
Hotel Canton dell’Orto
Hotel Canton dell’Orto is situated 5 km from Gran Teatro Geox, 2.3 km from PadovaFiere and 280 metres from Prato della Valle. Free WiFi is available, and private parking can be arranged at an extra charge.
Erïk Langer Pedrocchi Suites
Erïk Langer Boutique Apartments Pedrocchi is located in the centre of Padua. It offers self-catering apartments with free WiFi in all areas.
3. Padova Railway Station
Great area for business travelers
Staying near the Padova Railway Station is an excellent idea for those on a train route through Italy. The area is also perfect for business travelers only temporarily in town.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Padua, Italy:
- Great area for business travelers
- Capella degli Scrovegni
- Cheap accommodation
- Connected by public transport
- Trains to Venice
The area surrounding Padova Railway Station is the best area to stay in Padua for business travelers making a short stop in the city. Located north of the City Center, the Padova Railway Station connects Padua to major cities around Italy, like Venice. So, the area serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby destinations.
Some popular attractions near the station include Caffè Pedrocchi, a historic café with unique decor that opened in 1831. But, the Capella degli Scrovegni is the most famous attraction near the station. This chapel is a highlight because of its frescoes painted by Giotto de Bondone, which were ahead of their time. The details, lights, and shadows on the frescoes make them masterpieces.
While not known for its vibrant nightlife, the area around Padova Railway Station has bars and restaurants that cater to different tastes. You can enjoy pre-dinner aperitivos or unwind with a glass of local wine.
Regarding accommodations, you can choose among boutique hotels, budget-friendly guesthouses, hostels, or even some luxurious hotels in this area.
Best Hotels Near Padova Railway Station
Hotel Grand’Italia
Hotel Grand’Italia is opposite Padua Central Station, a short walk from the historic center. Built in 1909, it has an attractive Art-Nouveau design. En-suite rooms offer free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Al Cason
From this clean, central, and friendly 3-star hotel, you can walk to the railway station in just 5 minutes and catch one of the frequent trains to Venice.
B&B Loft Padova
Offering city views, B&B Loft Padova is an accommodation located in Padova, 3.8 km from Gran Teatro Geox and 33 km from M9 Museum. There is a private entrance at the bed and breakfast for the convenience of those who stay.
4. Around the Fiera di Padova
Good area to stay in pADUA, ITALY
The area surrounding the Fiera di Padova, also known as PadovaFiere, is great for business travelers. After all, this building is the city’s biggest event and conference hall.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Padua, Italy:
- Excellent area to attend fairs and conferences
- Near the City Center
- Variety of hotels and restaurants
PadovaFiere, located northeast of Padua, is an area centered around the Fiera di Padova, a renowned exhibition center. Fiera di Padova, which translates to “Fair of Padua,” annually hosts several events and conferences. Thus, this is also an excellent area to stay in Padua for business travelers. The districts’ roots date back to the 14th century when it was a market.
The district’s proximity to the city center makes it an ideal place to stay for visitors interested in exploring Padua’s attractions. So, staying here, you’ll remain close to the Basilica of Saint Anthony, Scrovegni Chapel, Botanical Garden, and Prato della Valle.
Also, there are many restaurants, cafes, and bars around PadovaFiere, with modern venues alongside traditional Italian places that showcase Padua’s rich heritage.
When it comes to transportation options, PadovaFiere is well-connected, with frequent bus services running through the area. Additionally, the train station is nearby.
As for accommodations in PadovaFiere, visitors can choose from a variety of hotels ranging from luxurious to budget-friendly guesthouses. Many hotels within the area are designed with conference-goers and tourists in mind.
Best Hotels Near the Fiera di Padova
Best Western Plus Hotel Galileo Padova
Best Western Plus Hotel Galileo Padova is set on the banks of the River Piovego, next to Giotto Shopping Centre in Padua. Free WiFi is available in public areas.
YPApartments FIERA
YPApartments FIERA has air-conditioned guest accommodation in Padova, 500 meters from PadovaFiere, 4.9 km from Gran Teatro Geox, and 31 km from M9 Museum. It is set 32 km from Mestre Ospedale Train Station and offers a lift.
