Playful Padua
A sign of the Renaissance to come, Giotto placed real people in real scenes, expressing real human emotions. These frescoes were radical for their 3-D nature, lively colors, light sources, emotion and humanism. Because it's so fragile, you must make reservations in advance to see the chapel. It's wise to reserve at least two days in advance and easiest to do online at www.cappelladegliscrovegni.it.
From its student vibe to its early-Renaissance masterpieces, Padua is a great place to get chummy with the winds of the past -- and connect with the pleasures of the moment.
IF YOU VISIT...
SLEEPING: Hotel Belludi 37 is a slick, stylish place near the Basilica of St. Anthony, renting 16 modern rooms shoehorned into an old building (moderate, www.belludi37.it). The family-run Hotel Majestic Toscanelli rents 34 charming, old-fashioned rooms in the city center (splurge, www.toscanelli.com).
EATING: Osteria dei Fabbri offers a good mix of quality and price, serving traditional Venetian and Paduan dishes (Via dei Fabbri 13, tel. 049-650-336). Casa del Pellegrino Ristorante caters to St. Anthony pilgrims with simple, hearty meals, served in a cheery dining room just north of the basilica (Via Cesarotti 21, tel. 049-876-0715).
GETTING AROUND: The town is walkable, but you can also access Padua's best sights from its tram line (www.apsholding.it).
FOR TOURIST INFORMATION: www.turismopadova.it.
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Rick Steves (www.ricksteves.com) writes European travel guidebooks and hosts travel shows on public television and public radio. Email him at rick@ricksteves.com and follow his blog on Facebook.
(c)2014 RICK STEVES DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
