Padua for a day?

The Scrovegni Chapel, the Basilica of St. Anthony, and the Anatomy Theatre of the University of Padua

I'd agree with Debbie's suggestions but would add that you need to reserve the Scrovegni chapel at least 2 days ahead of time. You can do it online - www.cappelladegliscrovegni.it or by phone - 049-201-0020

If you are in to plants the Botanic Garden with the new Biodiversity exhibit is quite near the Cathedral. I think the entrance fee is about 10 € but well worth it if you enjoy gardens.

I'd agree with the above, especially the Scrovegni Chapel, and also chip in that the museum attached, and where you get the tickets, is no slouch. The admission is included with the Scrovegni Chapel so it is a great place to spend time while waiting for your admission time. I'd get there a few minutes even earlier and give the museum a chance.

It looks like the Chapel will be closed. I really like all the suggestions. Any websites that you all like?

It is such a shame that you will be there when the fresco inspection committee will be there instead of you.

I hope you get a chance the next time you are back in Venice.

How about a different destination? Verona? Vicenza? Treviso? I have been to none of these - well Verona train station going to Bolzano, and everyone assumed I was German speaking - which I am kind of. I was thrilled. Palladian Villa tours out of Venice? I am not sure if they run in November.

The first time I was in Venice, I was there over Thanksgiving. I took the now-defunct RS Venice tour. It snowed and was magical. It was damp and cold, so be prepared. We spent the entire week in Venice and the surrounding islands. We did not get everywhere, though, so you could spend a few days and not have to leave.

I remember the second time in Venice, a friend and I spent delightful hours seeking out the Questura to photograph the locale of Commissario Brunetti's workplace. We went on a hunt ending up in the "wrong" (read competing) police stations and letting them know we were seeking Brunetti. They would roll their eyes and point us in the right direction.

And shopping - while in Venice, I will certainly need a wine glass. Ah, you may be there during the equivalent of the Nouveau Beaujolais season. If interested, you will find the Italian equivalent at little fooderies near the fish markets. I also need leather gloves and a Fortuny scarf. Then I need to hunt down (multiple times) the Fortuny museum/ca', especially if there are exhibits going on I like. Oh, and Miss Garnet's Angel and locating the church with the statue of the Angelo Raffaello!

I have stayed in Venice three times and have not yet visited all the corners. Sure, a trip to the surrounding area might be nice, but a few days in Venice can be held by Venice alone, too. Enjoy! Now I will start making a list of where next in Venice to visit.

PS, if you want to get ideas of how to spend time there, try reading some trip reports at Slow Travel. Debbie

Thanks Debbie! Can't wait

I stopped in Padua once, on the way from Venice to Florence, just to see the Scrovegni Chapel. Now I'm planning to go back for a 2-day visit because it looks like there is plenty to see and do besides the frescoes.

Verona is one of my favorite Italian towns. Lots to see and do. Google Verona Card for a list of sights.

Baptistery, Hermits Church, Law Courts and a great outdoor market are some other highlights. It's a fine, small town for strolling around and I think there are a lot of little rivers and creeks as well.

We stayed a few nights in Padua and enjoyed it. In addition to the sights mentioned, you might consider a stroll around the Prato. It was especially pretty at night. Keep your eyes and ears open for roaming graduation celebrations that resemble Hollywood roasts...if you hear people singing "Dottore, Dottore..." head that way. Lots of fun to watch, parental discretion may be advised.