Whilst Lake Garda will always attract the headlines, I wanted to visit Lake Iseo, especially during the Spring when visitor numbers are far less than in those busy summer months.
I took the train from Desenzano on Lake Garda, with a change in Brescia, to Iseo. The train station at Iseo does not have much in the way of signage, however, upon asking a local, I was told to swing a right and I would soon find myself walking along the main approach to Iseo and its attractive little town and waterside promenade.
Iseo Town
Iseo is small yet has a good selection of boutiques, cafes and numerous restaurants either on the back streets or close to the jetty where ferries and tourist boats take you on a scenic tour of the lake.
For a 45-minute group tour, Massimo from Iseo Taxi Boat charged me 10 euros which included his expert knowledge and guidance as we enjoyed close-up views of Monte Isola, the largest Lake Island in Europe and the little island of Sao Paolo which has a beautiful monastery that is owned by the Beretta family, who is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of guns.
Back on the mainland have a wander around the pretty side streets and you may stumble upon the gorgeous Basilica of Sant Andrea. It is understood that the Bishop of Brescia, Vigilio founded the church of Sant’Andrea between the late 5th and early 6th centuries.
Basilica of Sant Andrea, Lake Iseo
A short stroll from the church through lovely little pastel coloured side streets leads you to a selection of luxury boutiques and shops. You may, as I did, choose to relax and sip a coffee while watching the locals reading their Gazette dello Sport in the spring sunshine.
Exploring Lake Iseo
From Iseo town, I jumped on the rather infrequent local bus to Paratico where I was staying for a couple of nights. The journey took just 15 minutes to cover the 10 km.
I stayed at the rather dated but superbly located and oh-so-authentic, Hotel Stazione. A family-run hotel dating back to 1957, it offers views from the magnificent, wisteria-clad terrace across the River Oglio that flows into Lake Garda. On one side of the river is Paratico and just a two-minute walk across the bridge, is the town of Sarnico.
Sarnico, Lake Iseo
Sarnico has aromatic and picturesque little side streets, art deco villas and the beautiful Church of San Martino. Down on the riverfront, there is a delightful promenade where people like to stroll in the late afternoon sun.
A couple of ice cream parlours are perfectly located with chairs to relax and enjoy the views. Further along, there are a small number of bars offering happy hour deals and delicious aperitivo.
The Bar called “Swing 1966 Bar” – was a popular hang-out and even older than me – I guess I wasn’t the oldest swinger in town after all!
Sarnico-Church of San Martino Sarnico PromenadeSwing-1966-Bar
Paratico, Lake Iseo
Paratico appeared less developed and the poorer neighbour so to speak. There are the remains of a castle plus a fabulous old railway station that’s been turned into a shop, a restaurant, and a cafe.
Paratico-Lake-IseoParatico Old Train StationParatico Cafe
Alongside there is a small nature park, called Tassodi Park or Bosco Taxodi, where local authorities are developing a 300-metre over-lake boardwalk. Here you can admire the incredible tree species Taxodium Ristichum, from which the park is named, and which grows directly out of the water. All around are wildfowl and up high in the trees were nesting herons. I loved it here for the wildlife and the calm.
It’s only small, but to me, it appears to be the start of a project to develop and protect a little area of this previously disused and run-down corner of the town.
Contact Information
Iseo is the signature town of Lake Iseo in Italy, and will receive the most attention. Sarnico is the authentic experience and Paratico is the rough diamond which I loved. All three were wonderful in their own way and I am so pleased I went a little off-piste and visited Lake Iseo.
With Lake Como, Lake Maggiore and many more just waiting to be explored my stop at Lake Iseo was over but it won’t be long before I am back….. till next time – Arrivederci!
Occasionally you find a hotel that is, quite simply, at the top of its game. It does not have to be super luxurious or indeed super cheap – it just needs to deliver in every aspect. Earlier this year I was lucky enough to be staying at the lovely 3* Hotel Benaco in Desenzano Del Garda, Italy.
Originally a villa built after the Second World War, the hotel has just 32 rooms. In the same family since 1979, the Benaco is now owned by Gregory, who takes immense pride in creating a property that oozes class and sophistication.
Gregory’s creative stamp and flair are at every turn and it is one of the many reasons I love this little hotel. In fact, I enjoyed it so much that a one-night stop turned into a four-night stay.
Let’s find out what floated my boat on Lake Garda!
Hotel Bonaco ArtHotel Benaco – Lounge
Location
The Hotel is situated just a 5-minute stroll downhill from the Desenzano Del Garda Railway station. For those travelling around Northern Italy, Desenzano is conveniently accessible from cities such as Venice, Verona and Milan.
A further 10-minute walk from the Hotel Benaco takes you down the hill to the historic, lakeside town of Desenzano with its shops, restaurants, bars, and the many tourist boats that will whisk you off to all corners of Lake Garda.
The hotel is small, however, the fresh feel, the welcome and the furnishings are exquisite. All of the friendly, smiling staff at reception were on hand throughout my stay to assist with information on what to do in the vicinity or for train and boat times if I was planning to head out exploring.
Next to the reception desk is a beautifully appointed (for want of a better word) cupboard where you can pick up maps and information on the region and the many local attractions and activities.
Hotel Benaco Reception, Desenzano, ItalyHotel Benaco Reception, Desenzano, Italy
Lounge
The lounge area adjoining the reception is decorated to the highest of standards with stylish art, luxurious red leather sofas and unusual artefacts and books. I love the washed-wood look and feel throughout the hotel.
For lovers of music, there is a lamp with the logo from the famous “The Who” band and alongside, is fine art and pottery. Whilst it may sound like an unusual mix you need to look at the photos to see that it works!
The lounge area is a lovely place just to chill with a coffee or an Aperol Spritz after a long day of exploring.
Hotel Benaco StyleThe Bar at the Hotel BenacoHotel Benaco – Bar
Rooms & Views
There are 32 immaculate rooms and I was staying in room 305 with a large comfy double bed, a walk-in changing area with a safe and a bathroom with a shower, toilet and bidet. Shampoo, soap and towels were changed daily.
The view I had from the French balcony was across Desenzano town and then beyond to Sirmione, the lake and the mountains beyond.
There is excellent wifi throughout the hotel and in the room a large TV desk and a working area. Just what I needed!
Hotel Benaco – RoomRoom View
Hotel Benaco Restaurant
One of the highlights of staying at this cosy hotel is the breakfast served between 7 and 10 am.
Once again the decor in the restaurant is superb and divided into two seating areas. There is clearly a love of music in this hotel as one area contains a piano with images of musicians including some of my favourites Bruce Springsteen and Sting.
The bakery consists of a variety of breads, croissants, cakes, and pastries all freshly prepared from a bakery in Trentino. Drinks include fruit juices, teas, and a coffee machine serving up various choices while for those with special requirements, there are various milk alternatives. A hot counter delivers scrambled eggs, bacon and “rosti” which is a delicious mix of potatoes and onion.
Other options are cold meats, fine cheeses, stewed fruits of which the plums were truly amazing, as well as local honey from Mantova in Lombardy and served in the honeycomb. As if that was not enough how about a pancake maker? Whilst a rather unsightly machine that is not in keeping with the beautifully created room it does deliver some fabulous freshly cooked pancakes at the press of a button.
Breakfast at the Hotel Benaco is worth getting out of bed for!
During the busier months, the hotel also offers a bistro service for lunch and dinner. This is particularly popular for guests relaxing by the pool who may want a simple sandwich or burger during the day.
Hotel Benaco – BreakfastBreakfastBreakfast RoomHotel Benaco – Breakfast
Pool & Gardens
To the front of the hotel are a couple of garden areas with seating as well as a sizeable swimming pool.
Although not heated it will be a welcome addition to those staying in the warmer months. There are plenty of sun loungers making a fight for space amongst the 32 rooms very unlikely!
Hotel Benaco – Pool & GardensHotel Benaco – Pool & Gardens
Micia The Resident Cat
To my delight, the hotel also has a resident cat – Micia – this young lady patrols the gardens and reception.
On a number of occasions while I stayed I was in reception and the automatic sliding doors opened, not for guests, but for Micia who was just ambling back after a day sunbathing in the gardens.
Hotel Benaco – Mischa the CatHotel Benaco – Mischa the Cat
Contact Hotel Benaco
A stay at the Hotel Benaco will leave you feeling refreshed, relaxed and ready for the next part of your Italian adventure. For a 3* Hotel in Desenzano, I would wholly recommend a stay as they have simply got the formula bang on… it’s a truly lovely hotel.
For more information visit Hotel Benaco or contact your local travel agent and ask for the Hotel Benaco in Desenzano, Italy which is featured by Typically Italian Holidays.
There is something truly magical and romantic about a holiday to one of the many Italian lakes. Spectacular scenery, sophisticated accommodation, and superb cuisine together with the chance to get out on the water lure guests back year after year. As if that is not enough the surrounding countryside and mountains make this part of the world ideal for simple relaxation or adventure.
The many pretty towns and villages, connected by ferries, private boats, or the road, invite visitors to mooch along their cobbled streets that are filled with stylish boutiques, restaurants, and cafes where people-watching is an art.
History lovers can revel in the many palaces, museums, and churches while just a short journey by train, bus, or car you can be transported to some of the country’s most iconic cities including Venice, Milan, and Verona, not to mention the lesser known but equally delightful, Bergamo, Brescia, and Vicenza.
Many of us are fans of the Italian Lakes, so earlier this year, I embarked on my own “Little Italian Adventure” as I travelled from Venice across to Bergamo. En route, I took time out to stay at Lake Garda and the lesser-known, Lake Iseo.
Getting Around
Travelling in Italy, whether by car rental, bus, or train, is incredibly convenient. In my personal experience, I found taking the train to be the best option. The primary train operator, Trenitalia, offers a pass that allows you to select the level of service you desire, the number of journeys you wish to take, and the type of passenger based on age, while the trains themselves were almost always punctual, clean, comfortable, and budget-friendly.
The bus network is also clean, comfortable, and worth considering, whether for local or long-distance travel.
As a little tip, whether it is on the train or the bus, make sure to have your tickets stamped upon boarding, as failure to do so, can result in a significant fine.
Lake Garda
Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and lies between the Alps and the Dolomites. I flew to Venice and after a couple of nights in one of the world’s truly great cities, I hopped on a train and after a couple of nights in both Padua and Vicenza, I arrived at Desenzano del Garda.
Desenzano Del Garda
On the Southern end of the Lake is the popular town of Desenzano Del Garda. As I stepped off the train and exited the small station, I soon realised just how much the hill slopes down to the lake below. I was staying at the highly recommended, Hotel Benaco, a charming 3* hotel offering a friendly welcome, stylish accommodation, and breakfast for a king!
From the Hotel and as you approach the town, you can swing by and visit the Castello (Castle) for terrific views over the town and lake. You could also check out the Roman Villa or Cathedral. Arriving lakeside and into the town, plenty of shops range from designer boutiques to somewhat tacky souvenirs. Beautifully appointed restaurants and trendy bars line the waterfront while three beaches attract the sun worshippers. There is also a weekly market every Tuesday morning.
As with many of Lake Garda’s towns, there is a jetty where companies offer smaller personalised tourist boat trips around the lake plus there are scheduled ferry services to the other towns.
Sirmione
The small town of Sirmione, built on a long peninsula, is considered by many to be one of the most celebrated towns on Lake Garda. I took the ferry from Desenzano del Garda, taking just 20 minutes and costing 4.50 euros one way.
As we disembarked, we found ourselves at a waterside square surrounded by restaurants. Head off in any direction and you are immediately jostling for position in the narrow streets and alleyways that are packed with shops, restaurants and a rather large number of ice cream parlours that seem to compete against one another for who can offer the most flavours.
The signature landmark in Sirmione is the Scaligero Castle which was built in the mid-fourteenth century by the Veronese Della Scala family, from whom it takes its name, the “Rocca Scaligera”. The Church of Santa Maria Della Neve dating back to the 15th century is worth a visit although I preferred the little Chapelle Ave Maria opposite.
For a taste of local life, there is a weekly market in Colombare di Sirmione on Monday mornings while if it’s relaxation you crave then head to Jamaica Beach. Made up of huge smooth rocks and behind a little sandy beach, this is a popular hang-out for locals and visitors alike.
Close to Jamaica Beach is the Roman Villa, Grotte De Cattulo which dates back to the 1st century BC.
Peschiera del Garda
To the east of Sirmione is one of the signature towns on the lake, Peschiera del Garda. The Venetian Fortress of Peschiera del Garda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and when combined with the many bridges, Roman ruins and canals you can understand why a visit here is a must.
The Garda Riviera
Continuing anti-clockwise, on the southeastern side of the lake is the Garda Riviera.
Here there are several places worth a stop including Lazise, a medieval town, complete with its 13th-century castle, pretty streets full of boutiques and a lovely waterfront piazza and harbour.
Located at the foot of the Morainic Hills, the peaceful resort ofBardolino is famous for its naturally delicate and fruity-flavoured olive oil. So much so you can even take a tour of the Museo dell’Olio. As well as the oils there is also the famous Bardolino wine. This delicious light red wine is produced in the nearby traditional vineyards which you can also visit. If you are lucky enough to visit in late September there is the Festa dell’Uva e del Vino di Bardolino – the festival of grapes and Bardolino wine.
There is also the town of Garda. Whilst only a small town it is the proud home of one of the finest beaches in all Lake Garda, the Mermaids’ Bay in Punta San Vigilio. Friday mornings are market day so be sure to sample some of the local cheese, olive oil and famous Bardolino wine.
Malcesine
Still, on the East side of the lake, some 18kms from the Northern tip, is one of Lake Garda’s most iconic locations, the town of Malcesine.
The port area offers visitors the chance to relax and indulge in an early morning coffee or a late afternoon cocktail while watching the many sailing boats that moor up.
Situated at the base of the Monte Baldo ridge the town is known for the 7,000 feet high cable car journey that takes tourists up to a height of 1760 metres. What is unique is that at the midway point, the cable car rotates offering passengers a 360-degree view. Once at the top, there are not only amazing views but also the start of some excellent mountain trails for hiking and cycling.
As you walk uphill and along the narrow lanes full of an assortment of enticing restaurants, shops and artists’ studios, you will reach the Castello Scaligero, a medieval castle perched on the edge of the lake. Here you can tour, visit the museums, or just marvel at the fabulous views.
Riva del Garda
At the very North of Lake Garda is the town of Riva del Garda. Cobbled old streets sit alongside pretty parks and walkways while in the main square, you will find the Torre Apponale Clock Tower. Be sure to visit the Fortress or Rocca, which was originally built in the 12th century, and is today home to the Alto Garda Museum which provides areas dedicated to art, archaeology and World War Two.
The most famous beach in Riva del Garda is “Spiaggia dei Sabbioni“ while the beaches nearby Torbole and Spiaggia dei Pini are popular for those who love windsurfing and kitesurfing. For those looking to go hiking or to tackle some challenging mountain biking trails, then head to Monte Brione. The area is great for photography and history as it is home to fortifications that were part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Limone sul Garda
As you start the journey down the west coast a lovely stop is at the little town of Limone sul Garda which since the 15th century has been known for its lemon production. This history is showcased at the Limonaia del Castel where you can learn about the cultivation of these lemons, as well as tour the terraces which overlook the harbour below. There is of course the chance to sample the produce!
Tignale
South of Limone Sul Garda is the town of Tignale which is famous for its Truffle festival which is celebrated in late September and early October. Restaurants offer a wide selection of menus that include truffles, while there is the opportunity to take part in tastings and even learn how to hunt for truffles.
The Gardone Riviera
At the southwestern side of the lake is the Gardone Riviera, part of the Riviera Bresciana which is renowned for its Art Nouveau and Art Deco Style. None more so is this the case than at “Il Vittoriale”, the former home of the poet and Italian nationalist Gabriele D’Anunzio.
The Hruska Botanical Gardens or the Heller Gardens are another signature landmark on the Gardone Riviera. Here visitors can enjoy, not only an incredible array of plants but also works of art from 20th-century artists such as Roy Liechtenstein and a personal favourite of mine, the wacky creations of Keith Haring.
Contact Information
For more information about visiting Lake Garda in Italy, contact the Lake Garda Tourist Office or contact your local travel agent or tour operator.
All photos were taken by myself and should be credited if used to @justonefortheroad
I had never heard of Bolzano in the South Tyrol where the locals speak both Italian and German. However, after just 24 hours this little stop has been the highlight of my Italian adventure to date! What a gorgeous little find!
From Venice, it’s a train journey to Verona and then a connection to Bolzano…. subject to the type of train you book it’s about a two-hour trip and worth every minute for the mountain views!
Accommodation
We were staying just 24 hours with accommodation booked in a centrally located, luxury two-story apartment with a garden terrace from the rather fantastic Stay Cooper brand. We were at first a little concerned given that the directions took us into a shopping mall opposite an ironmongers, a Poundland (but in euros) and a ladies’ underwear shop. At least every eventuality was covered or not as the case may be!
We need not have worried as the code access worked and the apartment was, I have to say the best I have ever experienced on a road trip. It was immaculate, high quality and complete with everything you may need including a coffee machine, dishwasher, microwave and a little outside garden terrace! The only problem we encountered was Tony, much to my amusement, could not get the TV to change the language as it was set to Hebrew!
Oberbozen Soprabolzano
Despite the weather being somewhat stormy and with lightning expected we took the somewhat questionable decision to take a 12-minute ride in a metal box suspended a thousand metres over the South Tyrol countryside. The cable car is next door to the railway station, so ideally located in the centre of town. It cost us 10 euros each for the return journey to Oberbozen Soprabolzano, which is like a base station from which you can venture onto other mountain retreats by a cute little mountain train or just hike. This area is spectacular with not only the mountain views but also the vineyards and little villages dotted all around.
With time against us, we chose to have a little look around the tiny village and then take a meal at the cosy alpine-style, Gasthaus Babsi which serves up rich hearty food such as Ghoulash with bacon dumplings, Wiener Schnitzel or simple but delicious pasta and pizza options.
About the Town
Having come back down the mountain with a belly full of food and a complimentary Grappa, we tottered around town in order to get our bearings and soon fell in love with Bolzano.
This is a classy, picture-postcard, mountain town with luxury boutiques, charismatic bars and stylish restaurants. What’s more the people in Bolzano are so incredibly friendly and welcoming. With the mountains on the doorstep, it is the perfect resort to base yourself at if you want to get out and explore the South Tyrol.
The main heart of Bolzano is at Piazza Walther which lies at the centre of town. The square was built in 1808 under the Bavarian rule and dedicated to King Maximilian Joseph I. Today, the square is a meeting place for all as well as playing host to the traditional Christmas Market, and also the Flower Market during the spring.
At the edge of the square is the Assumption of Our Lady Cathedral (see main image) which is a 65 metre Gothic building and considered to be the main landmark of the town.
Bolzano Market
The following morning was soggy and the air full of rain however I got up early and discovered at the Piazza delle Erbe square, a sensational outdoor market serving up everything from truffles to olive oils and flowers to cheese and meats.
There are many markets taking place in Bolzano. There are the daily fruit and vegetables market on the Piazza delle Erbe square in the old town of Bolzano and the weekly farmers’ markets and the large Saturday market at the Victory Square which has clothes as well as local produce.
Museo Archeologico dell’Alto Adige
Further afield I crossed the Talvera Bridge to see the Victory Monument which celebrates the success of the Italian army over the Austro-Hungarian Empire during the First World War.
After Tony had surfaced and watched the local weather in Hebrew, we visited the Museo Archeologico dell’Alto Adige located a couple of blocks from the Talvera Bridge. The Museum is home to the famous Iceman known as Otzi. It is believed that over 5,000 years ago he ascended the Schnalstal valley glacier and died there before being discovered in 1991. Entrance to the museum was 14 euros per adult which allows you to visit the four floors of history and artefacts plus view, through a small port hole window, Otzi’s body laying in a tomb.
Gateway to the Dolomites
This medieval town is at the gateway to the Italian Dolomites and for me is an undiscovered gem of a town. There were very few English speaking visitors making this a truly authentic Italian/German experience.
Till next time…
Contact
For more information on visiting Bolzano in Italy, contact the Italian Tourist Office or your local travel agent or tour operator.
All photos were taken by myself and be credited if used, to @justonefortheroad
Another wonderful short train journey costing just €4.70 euros took us from Padua to the city of Vicenza.
Classy Vicenza is known for its World Heritage Listed buildings including its Basilica (of course), Towers, the Villa Rotonda and the Teatro Olimpico.
Thankfully tonight we were both staying in the SHG Hotel De La Ville on the edge of town – a clean modern crisp hotel with lovely staff, a huge room, a cracking breakfast and a decent WIFI.
Piazza Dei Castello
We dumped our bags knowing we had just an afternoon and an evening to see what Vicenza had to offer! Reception advised us that it was a ten-minute stroll to the centre – everywhere is ten minutes in Italy – it was actually twenty – maybe it’s just because we are both unfit? With the sun beating down we sought shade in a little bar with an open terrace looking out over the Piazza Dei Castello.
We both rather enjoyed being served by the young waitress. A young Italian lady with the look of Sophia Loren but with the attitude of the mosquito that had munched on my left leg last night. However, there was a twinkle in those eyes when trying to speak English so our plan was to turn that frown upside down.
As pint led to pint we broke down those barriers and before we left, having used Google, to tell her in Italian she was our favourite bar lady in Vicenza, we had her laughing and telling her mates about her two new English friends – at least that’s what we thought she was telling them!
Corso Palladio
It was time to move on and stroll along the main street, the Corso Palladio that dissects the city. As with so many Italian cities, it was packed with stylish boutiques, restaurants, cafes and smart local folk walking their very posh pooches.
We took a turn to the right and headed to one of those hotspots of Vicenza life – the beautiful Torre Bissara in the Piazza Dei Signori.
Torre Bissara, is approximately 82 meters in height, and located adjacent to the Basilica Palladiana.
The tower was built in 1174, and over the centuries, there have been numerous interventions to maintain the stability and beauty of the tower.
In 1945 was hit and destroyed by Anglo-American bombing. It was not until 2002, that the restoration began to bring the tower back to its former glory.
Classy Vicenza
Just off the Piazza Dei Signori was a high quality champagne bar, Le Meneghina. I popped in to see how the other half live and take a photo before passing a travel agent with a Beachcomber (the company I worked for, 3 years ago) poster in the window.
You can tell by those two facts alone there is a bit of money in Vicenza. Sure enough the restaurants and bars in this Piazza were on the pricey side with the locals dressed immaculately and oozing class and quality. We did not stay long.
Teatro Olympico, Vicenza
Our next stop (for oxygen) was at the Teatro Olympico which we both wanted to see. This theatre dates back from the 16th century and was the final design of famous architect Andrea Palladio – he also designed the tower Bissara we were marvelling at earlier.
Sadly our curse struck again as it was closed, so all we got to view was the green lush gardens outside.
Vicenza – Short But Sweet
With that and the sun setting, we had accomplished a whistle-stop tour of Vicenza so headed to the American-themed Bar 27 off a roundabout for a sundowner – actually it was a beer in the rain. On this occasion, the bar lady Sheila, welcomed us with open arms and some overpowering, loud rap music full of expletives – certainly not the classy 1970’s Italian Easy Listening music I had enjoyed just 48 hours ago on Venice Lido.
My attention soon turned from Sheila and the rap music to resident Pooch, Vanilla, who instantly became my best friend. I mean the poor girl must be deaf spending his afternoons in Bar 27 but hey he seems happy enough and even posed for a photo or two!
With that, our way too-fast pit stop in lovely Vicenza was over. I liked Vicenza… it was not too busy, it was beautiful and the people and dogs were super friendly – the place was definitely not Vanilla!
Tomorrow we head for the hills as we arrive at the base of the Dolomites. I am excited!
Till next time!
Contact
For more information on visiting Vicenza in Italy, contact the Italian Tourist Office or contact your local travel agent or tour operator.
All photos were taken by myself and should be credited if used to @justonefortheroad
With my brief yet enjoyable visit to Venice at an end, I made my way to the railway station to take a 45-minute train journey to the city of Padova (Padua in English) famed for its enormous Prato Della Valle Plaza, its Basilica, and for being the birthplace of Aperol Spritzers…
Now for this part of my Italian adventure, I was joined by my old pal Tony who knows a thing or two about Italy, as he works for a rather excellent Italian Tour Operator. It was therefore my decision to take it easy and let Tony lead the way.
A 40-minute train journey from Venice to Padova cost just €4.70. As I repeat time after time in my posts, it is such good value to travel by train in Europe!!
Now Tony was staying in a charming little hotel. I wasn’t. Having booked late I was staying in an apartment near the station where a few shady characters loitered outside the rather uninspiring entrance to my diggs. Once I hurried through to safety I then struggled with the room safe and, as I sat on the shelf next to it, to try and understand how to work the damn thing, the shelf together with the safe and myself collapsed in a heap on the floor. I needed a drink.
By Night
Wandering around central Padova at night was lovely with the city alive with al fresco restaurants and bars on pretty, stylishly lit, cobbled streets. We met at the Prato Della Valle Plaza which is known as the largest elliptical square in Europe. There are some 78 statues of famous Padova historical figures encompassing the square – I won’t name them all.
After mooching and getting a feel for the city we found the really fabulous Bar, Birreria Da Umbe where every table featured a rather dated sewing machine. Now after my previous day’s experience in Venice with the Asian seamstress, I am wondering if there is a theme going on here?
Padua City Highlights
Sunday was earmarked to explore the city. After wandering around the wonderful old streets on my own discovering a fabulous Sunday morning art market, an oh-so-special Fiat 500 and numerous squares with coffee shops springing into life, it was time to meet Tony.
We met at the Prato Della Valle to see it in the daylight before heading to the Basilica of Saint Anthony.
Padua or Padova, Prato Della Valle PlazaPadua-Tram
Basilica of Saint Anthony
As it was named after Anthony, Tony insisted on going in on this busy Sunday morning. I have to admit I am not normally one for an early morning Basilica but as it happens I enjoyed the experience which was, credit where credit is due, magnificent.
As an added bonus I was delighted to be handed a free bread roll and a prayer as we left…. I was starving but have kept my prayer handy as I am sure I might need it at some point on this trip!
Museum La Specola
The last stop was my idea. I had been told by a random Italian to go to the Museum La Specola, an Astronomical Observatory where it is believed Galileo studied the stars. Now I am no Patrick Moore but I thought this might be good to see.
In the midday heat we wandered to the Museum which is located on the pretty river bank but Mamma Mia it was closed…. there was to be no Galileo Galileo for us this morning in Padova! Tony took note that this had been my idea and is taking a tighter hold of our itinerary going forward!
We went for a sandwich, a beer and an Aperol Spritzer to commiserate.
Fun Times in Padua
It was soon time for us to hit the tracks. After a somewhat challenging start to my stay, I grew to really like Padua or Padova. If you have the time to get under the skin of city you will discover an arty vibe, great food and a lively nightlife. It makes a great day trip from Venice or a two-night stay would be perfect to really get a feel of the city.
If you are planning an Italian adventure then add it to the itinerary… but stay in a central hotel !!
Contact
For more information on visiting Padua in Italy, contact the Italian Tourist Office or contact your local travel agent or tour operator.
All photos were taken by myself and should be credited if used to @justonefortheroad
