

19-night Cruise & Rail: Slovenia, Venice, Istanbul & The Balkans
Aboard
S.S. La Venezia
From
Ljubljana, Slovenia
3 Sailings
Apr 30 - Sep 24, 2026
A City of Art, Academia, and Spiritual Grandeur

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Overview
Padua (Padova in Italian) is a historic and elegant city located just a short distance from Venice, offering a captivating alternative to its more famous neighbor. As one of Italy's oldest cities, it is a living testament to a rich past, home to one of Europe's oldest universities and a treasury of Renaissance art. Padua is a city of arcaded streets, beautiful squares, and a vibrant atmosphere fueled by its large student population. It is also a major pilgrimage site, drawing visitors from around the world.
A day trip to Padua provides a serene and authentic Italian experience, away from the typical tourist crowds. Visitors can explore a wealth of masterpieces by Giotto, wander through a bustling market, reflect in a magnificent basilica, and relax in one of Europe's largest squares. Padua offers a profound sense of history and culture, making it a deeply rewarding stop for any cruise itinerary.
This is the absolute highlight of any trip to Padua. The Scrovegni Chapel houses a breathtaking fresco cycle by the great master Giotto, painted in the early 14th century. The frescoes, depicting the lives of Jesus and the Virgin Mary, are considered a pivotal work in Western art history.
Tip: Visits are strictly timed and must be booked in advance. You will spend 15 minutes in a climate-controlled room before entering the chapel for a 15-minute viewing.
Known locally as Il Santo, the magnificent Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua is a major pilgrimage site and a beautiful example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The basilica houses the tomb of Saint Anthony and features a stunning blend of domes and minaret-like spires.
Tip: Remember to dress respectfully, with shoulders and knees covered, as it is a place of worship.
Explore the Prato della Valle, one of Europe's largest and most impressive squares. This elliptical plaza is surrounded by a canal with a double ring of 78 statues of famous Paduan citizens. It is a beautiful and tranquil place for a leisurely stroll.
Tip: If your visit is on a Saturday morning, you'll be treated to a bustling local market in the square.
Located between the two bustling market squares, the Palazzo della Ragione is a medieval town hall with a stunning great hall on its upper floor. The hall features a fascinating zodiac fresco cycle and a massive replica of a 15th-century wooden horse.
Tip: Walk around the ground floor, which is a lively market area with shops selling fresh produce and local goods.
Immerse yourself in local life at the vibrant market squares of Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Frutti. These squares are a daily hub of activity, with vendors selling fresh produce, flowers, and cheeses, surrounded by a maze of ancient arcades
Tip: This is a great place to pick up some delicious local snacks or enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes.
Visit the historic Palazzo del Bo, the main building of the University of Padua, where Galileo Galilei once taught. A guided tour will take you to his teaching podium and the famous Anatomical Theatre, the oldest permanent anatomical theater in the world.
Tip: Guided tours are offered in both Italian and English and are the only way to see the historic university buildings.



Aboard
S.S. La Venezia
From
Ljubljana, Slovenia
3 Sailings
Apr 30 - Sep 24, 2026


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From
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Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
S.S. La Venezia
From
Ljubljana, Slovenia
62 Sailings
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Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
S.S. La Venezia
From
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62 Sailings
Apr 5, 2026 - Oct 31, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included


Aboard
S.S. La Venezia
From
Venice, Italy
31 Sailings
Apr 5 - Nov 1, 2026
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included

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