Category: English Blog

After a day spent exploring the wonders of the historic center, visiting the Scrovegni Chapel, or strolling under Padua’s arcades, there’s one ritual you simply can’t skip: the aperitivo. In Padua, it’s a true moment of conviviality that brings together friends, students, and workers over a spritz, a glass of wine, or a cocktail paired with cicchetti and small bites.

From the heart of Piazza dei Signori to the city’s hidden corners, Padua offers countless options, each with its own atmosphere. Whether you prefer a traditional Venetian-style aperitivo or a more contemporary setting, here are some places we recommend trying during your stay.

Brutal – Piazza dei Signori, 3

In the heart of Piazza dei Signori, Brutal is one of the most popular spots for those who love a contemporary-style aperitivo. The atmosphere is lively, youthful, and always buzzing — perfect for starting the evening while soaking in the energy of the historic center.

The star of the show is the counter, filled with cicchetti made with seasonal ingredients and creative pairings. Enjoy them with a classic Aperol or Select Spritz, a glass of natural wine, or a craft beer. Ideal for sharing small bites and enjoying a relaxed aperitivo with good company.
Instagram: @brutal_pd

Frida Tapas Bar – Piazza dei Signori, 30

If you’re looking for something different from the classic Venetian aperitivo, Frida Tapas Bar is a delightful surprise. Overlooking Piazza dei Signori, it offers a Spanish-inspired formula with tapas to share and cocktails crafted with great care.

Order several dishes for the table: croquettes, tartare, tortillas, vegetarian options, and seasonal plates pair beautifully with a signature cocktail or a good glass of wine. The relaxed atmosphere and outdoor seating make it perfect for a romantic aperitivo or an evening with friends.
Instagram: @fridatapasbarpadova

Peace ‘n’ Spice: 1) Via Dondi dall’Orologio, 13 & 2) Via del Portello, 40

Colorful, original, and with an international vibe, Peace ‘n’ Spice is ideal for those who love experimenting with new flavors. Here, the aperitivo meets creative cuisine made of spices, fresh ingredients, and dishes inspired by different culinary traditions.

Refined cocktails, vegetarian options, and tasty small bites turn a simple aperitivo into a journey through diverse flavors. The youthful, informal atmosphere invites you to linger — one of the most interesting spots for those seeking something off the beaten path.
Instagram: @peaceandspice

Eroica Caffé – Via Santa Lucia, 85/87

Eroica Caffé is perfect for those who want an elegant yet welcoming aperitivo. The curated interiors, relaxed atmosphere, and high-quality offerings make it ideal for an after-work break or a gathering with friends.

Alongside classic spritzes and an excellent wine selection, you’ll find finger food, boards, and small bites prepared with quality ingredients. A great choice for those who enjoy taking their time and savoring an aperitivo away from the city’s busiest spots.
Instagram: @eroicacaffepadova

Giardini dell’Arena

When the days get longer and the sun warms the city, few places offer the same atmosphere as the Giardini dell’Arena. Just steps from the Scrovegni Chapel, this green space is perfect for enjoying an outdoor spritz surrounded by nature.

Ideal for a relaxed aperitivo away from the crowds, perhaps after visiting the city’s main monuments. Simple, peaceful, and capable of offering one of the most pleasant moments of a day in Padua.

All’Ombra della Piazza – Via Pietro D’Abano, 16

As the name suggests, All’Ombra della Piazza is one of the iconic spots in the historic center. Here, the aperitivo is lived in the most authentic way — with bustling tables, lively conversations, and the constant flow of people animating the heart of the city.

The menu offers a wide selection of cocktails, wines, and spritzes, paired with boards, cicchetti, and dishes perfect for sharing. If you want to experience true Padua atmosphere, this is a must.
Instagram: @allombradellapiazza

Al Mercà: 1) Sotto il Salone, 30/31 & 2) Piazza dei Signori, 34 & 3) Piazza delle Erbe, 49

For many locals, this is the aperitivo spot. Al Mercà is a true city institution, famous for its perfectly crafted spritzes and its iconic stuffed focacce and traditional cicchetti.

Here, people often drink standing, chatting and enjoying the spontaneous conviviality that makes the Venetian aperitivo so special. If you want to feel part of the city, this stop is practically mandatory.
Instagram: @almercapadova

Il Gottino – Via delle Piazze, 16

For mixology lovers, Il Gottino is one of Padua’s most interesting addresses. The intimate, elegant atmosphere is perfect for those who want a cocktail crafted with technique and quality ingredients.

Alongside timeless classics, you’ll find original creations paired with small bites designed to enhance each drink. Ideal for a refined aperitivo or continuing the evening after dinner.
Instagram: @ilgottinowinebar

TreQuarti – Piazza della Frutta, 34

Between Piazza della Frutta and the historic center, TreQuarti is a favorite meeting point for locals. The lively, informal atmosphere is perfect for enjoying a spritz with friends before dinner.

The counter offers a rich selection of cicchetti, bruschette, and tasty bites to share. On sunny days, the outdoor seating fills quickly, creating that typical vibe that makes aperitivo in Padua so special.
Instagram: @trequartibistro_padova

Corte Sconta – Via dell’Arco, 9

If you prefer a quieter, more intimate setting, Corte Sconta is the ideal choice. This small wine bar charms with its cozy atmosphere and its carefully curated selection of Italian and international wines.

Aperitivo here means well-chosen glasses, boards of cured meats and cheeses, cicchetti, and local products. Perfect for a relaxed evening just steps away from the historic center.
Instagram: @cortescontapadova

Our Tip

Every local has their favorite spot, but the best way to truly experience Padua’s aperitivo is to follow the atmosphere. Stop in a square at sunset, order a spritz with a few cicchetti, and take the time to watch life unfold around you.

If you’re staying at Dadi Home, many of these places are within easy walking distance, the best way to discover Padua is by wandering through its squares, letting yourself be surprised by a new view… and by an excellent aperitivo.

Padua is a city full of parks and gardens: large and small, historic and neighborhood spaces. This is where local life blossoms, especially during the warmer months. Open‑air concerts, aperitifs surrounded by greenery, families at playgrounds, groups of friends sitting on the grass until evening: Padua’s parks are all of this.

Some are historic gardens designed centuries ago, while others have become lively meeting places in recent years thanks to festivals and events that animate Padua’s summer.

Here are some green corners we recommend to our guests:

Prato della Valle

Italy’s largest square (and one of the largest in Europe) is also one of the most beloved places for Padua’s residents. At its center lies the Isola Memmia, an elliptical garden surrounded by a canal and 78 statues, accessible via four small bridges. In summer, it’s perfect for a picnic on the grass or a bike ride along the outer ring.

Orto Botanico di Padova

Founded in 1545, it is the oldest university botanical garden in the world still in its original location and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Between the historic 19th‑century greenhouse and the modern Biodiversity Garden, it offers a fascinating journey through centuries‑old plants, rare species, and botanical curiosities.
Just a few minutes’ walk from Prato della Valle — ideal to combine in a single stroll.
Website: www.ortobotanico1545.it

Giardini dell’Arena

In the heart of the city, next to the Scrovegni Chapel and the remains of the ancient Roman Arena, these historic gardens are one of Padua’s most frequented green spaces. In summer, they host kiosks and refreshment areas perfect for an outdoor aperitif, while in winter they light up with Christmas decorations.
Website: www.giardinidellarena.com

Giardini Treves (Parco Treves)

Designed between 1829 and 1835 by Giuseppe Jappelli (the same architect behind the famous Caffè Pedrocchi), this is the city’s first true historic park, with a typical English‑style “romantic” layout made of winding paths, gentle slopes, and unexpected viewpoints.
Entrance from Via Bartolomeo D’Alviano, next to Porta Pontecorvo.

Parco Milcovich – Arcella Bella

Located in the Arcella district, this park has undergone a true revival in recent years thanks to the “Arcella Bella” project: a summer garden with concerts, open‑air cinema, street food, and activities for all ages, open almost every day from April to September. Perfect if you want to experience an evening like the locals, between an aperitif and live music, away from tourist routes.
It’s situated in Via Jacopo da Montagnana, a few minutes’ walk from the train station
Website: www.arcellabella.com

Campo dei Girasoli

Inside Parco del Basso Isonzo, this space comes alive every summer with a rich calendar of events: over 200 live concerts, excursions, creative workshops, and talks with experts. A great way to discover the most authentic, neighborhood‑based side of the city, between music, nature, and outdoor social life.
Website: www.campodeigirasoli.com

Parco Iris

A large urban park designed for sports and relaxation, with a fitness trail for outdoor exercise and wide lawns perfect for sunbathing. Ideal if you’re looking for a quieter, less touristy space to enjoy greenery like the locals do.
Address: Via Giovanni Canestrini

Parco d’Europa

Just outside the city’s Renaissance walls, this large green area was created through urban redevelopment and is now loved for walks, sports, and relaxation. Inside you’ll also find the Giardino di Cristallo, a greenhouse that houses the municipal collection of succulents.
Address: Via Venezia, 40

You’ve arrived in Padua, this beautiful Venetian city full of history! You’ve checked in at DADI Home, dropped off your suitcase, and immediately the most important question comes up: where do we eat?

Luckily, Padua is a city that treats your taste buds well: elegant palaces, creative bistros, and Michelin‑starred restaurants.

Here are some exquisite places from the Michelin Guide that we love recommending:

Belle Parti – Via Belle Parti 11

A refined and romantic restaurant inside the historic Palazzo Prosdocimi. Soft lighting, impeccable service, and a cuisine that reinterprets tradition with elegance. The fish dishes are especially appreciated. Perfect for a special evening.
Website: www.ristorantebelleparti.it

Ai Porteghi Bistrot – Via Cesare Battisti 105

A modern, beautifully curated bistro located under some of the most charming porticoes in the city center. The cuisine blends tradition and creativity, with seasonal dishes, well‑crafted fish, and excellent desserts. Ideal for a relaxed yet high‑quality lunch or dinner.
Website: www.aiporteghibistrot.it

Stefano Mocellin al Padovanino – Via Santa Chiara 1

A contemporary dining experience in the heart of the city. Chef Stefano Mocellin brings technique, color, and creativity to the table, with influences shaped between Milan and Venice. Bold flavors, precise cooking, and a menu that follows the seasons.
Website: www.padovanino.com

Tola Rasa – Via Vicenza 7

A modern, elegant restaurant with a clear philosophy: “start from zero.” High‑quality ingredients, contemporary Italian cuisine, and great attention to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten‑free guests. Their tasting menus are an excellent way to discover their identity.
Website: www.tolarasa.it

Le Calandre *** 3 stars Michelin 2026 – Via Liguria 1 (Sarmeola di Rubano)

One of the most renowned restaurants in the world, awarded three Michelin stars. Massimiliano Alajmo’s cuisine is a sensory journey: lightness, creativity, and unforgettable flavors. An experience to live at least once in a lifetime.
Website: www.alajmo.it/pages/homepage-le-calandre

Il Calandrino – Via Liguria 1 (Sarmeola di Rubano)

The more informal version of Le Calandre, perfect from breakfast to dinner. Seasonal dishes, fresh pasta, and some iconic creations from the Alajmo family. And the pastry selection is not to be missed.
Website: www.alajmo.it/pages/homepage-il-calandrino