Venice is one of the most visited cities in the world, but there’s a nearby Italian city that’s just as beautiful and historic – and without the crowds of tourists
Venice – the jewel of Italy’s lagoon – draws in millions of tourists each year.
However, its immense global appeal is causing a strain on both the locals and the city’s infrastructure, leading to the local government implementing a series of measures in recent months to mitigate the effects of overtourism.
Despite the temporary entry fee imposed on day-trippers this summer and restrictions on group tours, tourists continue to flock to Venice. But for those seeking to dodge the crowds, there are plenty of alternative destinations nearby.
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Padua, or Padova as it’s known to Italians, is a historic city just 25 miles west of Venice. Situated in the same region as the lagoon, Veneto, Padua boasts two UNESCO World Heritage List entries.
The first, the botanical garden – Orto Botanico di Padova – is the world’s oldest still in its original location, dating back to 1545. Covering approximately 240,000 square feet, the Orto Botanico is renowned for its collections, including one of insectivorous plants and another of medicinal and poisonous species.
The second UNESCO-listed site in Padua is the Scrovegni Chapel, an awe-inspiring church adorned by Italian artist Giotto at the start of the 14th century. Padua also houses one of the world’s oldest universities, where history-making figures such as Galileo Galilei and Nicolaus Copernicus either studied or taught.
Padua is an ideal spot for those who enjoy city centre strolls, with Piazza delle Erbe, one of its main squares, being a hub of local activity since medieval times.
Much like its famous neighbour Venice, it boasts its own canals, including a petite one that meanders through the breathtaking Prato della Valle square.
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Padua also serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider region, reports the Express. With train tickets to Venice costing as little as £4.21, tourists can experience the lagoon city, just half an hour away, while saving on accommodation costs.
Likewise, holidaymakers in the area can take a trip to Verona, internationally renowned due to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The journey ranges from 45 to 90 minutes, depending on the chosen train service.