Excursion The elegant city of padua tour at Venice

Experience the Venetian beauty and architecture of historic Padua City during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Venice, Brenta River & Riviera, Canal, Countryside, Farms, Elegant Villas

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.25-hour drive to Padua on a panoramic road along the Brenta River, which unites Venice with Padua. The Brenta Riviera, which is nearly a village belonging to the city of Venice, is a real and natural continuation of the Grand Canal, the pride of the Venetian civilisation. The Riviera dates from the 13th century, when Venice conquered Padua. The Venetians built farms and elegant villas facing the canal and countryside, along with the 13th-century University of Padua, the second-oldest in Italy after the University of Bologna. However, Padua reached the apex of her splendour in the 14th and 15th centuries, with great artists such as Giotto, Dante, and Petrarch.

Padua, Walking Tour, Prato Della Valle, Statues, Piazza Del Santo, Saint Anthony Basilica, City Sites

Upon arrival at Padua and after a comfort stop, take a guided walking tour of this lively and cultural town, which is comprised of an historic midtown section and a modern industrialised zone. Your tour begins at the Prato della Valle, an elegant oval park adorned with a ring of 78 statues. Along the way, stop by the Piazza del Santo for a guided visit to the Basilica, which contains the relics of Saint Anthony. From here, your guided stroll continues through the heart of this lovely city. See the important sites such as the Bo Palace, main seat of the University of Padua, Caffè Pedrocchi, Piazza delle Erbe, and Piazza della Frutta, two picturesque squares with local daily markets.

Piazza Delle Erbe, Bar, Cocktail, Local Specialities, Free Time, Shopping

Following your guided tour, proceed to a local bar in the Piazza delle Erbe. Upon arrival, learn about the famous Paduan aperitivo whilst enjoying a typical Spritz cocktail accompanied by some canapés and little bites of a tramezzino (Italian sandwich). Afterward, some free time is made available for shopping and independent exploration. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier. Upon arrival, take the shuttle bus back to the ship or remain in town for additional shopping and exploration, and return to the ship at your own expense.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Venice, Padua City, Brenta River, Prato Della Valle, Piazza del Santo, Basilica, Bo Palace, Caffè Pedrocchi, Piazza delle Erbe, Piazza della Frutta, Free Time

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking and standing for approximately 0.93 miles (about 1.5 kilometres), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a sweater or light jacket, bottled water, and Euros or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Conservative attire is needed when visiting sacred sites. The inside visit of the Saint Anthony Basilica might not be possible in case of religious service, explanations in that case will be only from the outside. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. The driving time between the pier and sites visited is approximately 1.25 hours in each direction. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.