Being in the shadows of Venice has its ups and downs. The disadvantage is that Padua sometimes gets ignored. On the flip side, its visitors can enjoy a nice and quiet visit without the hustle and bustle of its famous neighbour. Although only an hour away from Venice, Padua seems a world apart with its medieval marketplaces, fascist-era buildings and Italy’s second-oldest university. Not to forget that it is also the resting place of Saint Anthony, the patron saint of the illiterate, the poor, the finder of lost things, and of blessed weddings. Be sure not to get lost and walk in the footsteps of Galileo, Giotto, St. Anthony or Titian and discover why this city challenged both Venice and Verona for regional hegemony.