Unique Wine Tasting Experience in the Heart of Nature

Stefan Heiden

Reviewed on February 26, 2025

Unfortunately, the large greenhouses were closed. But the great importance attached to botany here from a very early stage is clearly evident in the audio guide. And "Goethe's Palm" grew well.

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Christopher Felker

Reviewed on February 23, 2025

Such a nice place as evidenced by the UNESCO world heritage designation. Helpfully staffed by University of Padova students whose patience is met with broad language skills. I went in what might generously be called the most fallow period possible and it was a tranquil oasis. For 2025 (and perhaps a year beyond) the main draw the modern greenhouses are being rehabilitated. That issues aside, the botanical museum is one of house astoundingly interesting places - typical of the best Italian museum designs which are world class. One of my favourites in the US is Smith College, with its analog delights - but Padova tells the story of each of its directors, and the extraordinary women who worked on the collection. I learned so much there but one item - the Goethe Palm is viewable in the gardens, then in the fantastic lecture hall the visitor is treated to an excellent video from 2023 showing how transformational his (and by extension yours) will be by closely studying plants. Peter Greenaway (not sure if he ever visited) would love this collection, especially the little boxes of taxonomically correct seeds (exactly 100 per box). A fantastic visit that is academic in all the best ways.

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I. Morgan

Reviewed on January 30, 2025

Orto Botanico di Padova – The Oldest Botanical Garden in the World The Orto Botanico di Padova is not just a beautiful garden—it’s a living piece of history. Founded in 1545, it is the world’s oldest university botanical garden and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Originally established for medical students at the University of Padua, it played a key role in the study of medicinal plants and the development of modern botany. The gardens are open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed Mondays). Tickets cost 10€ for adults and 5€ for students. What makes this garden truly special is its original Renaissance design, which remains intact. The circular layout, symbolizing the world, is divided into geometric sections filled with rare and exotic plants. One of its most famous residents is Goethe’s Palm, planted in 1585, which inspired the German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s studies on plant evolution. In addition to its historical charm, the modern Biodiversity Garden showcases plants from all climate zones, housed in state-of-the-art glasshouses. The mix of ancient botanical heritage and innovative conservation efforts makes this garden one of the most unique in the world. A must-visit for plant lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a peaceful retreat in Padua. Absolutely worth it – 5/5!

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sofi bono

Reviewed on January 2, 2025

Located near Prato della Vale, it is a central place where you can find 1/1.5 hours of tranquility and fresh air. The INTERACTIVE SCREENS are a great idea to get the kids involved!!! Very friendly staff. Small souvenir shop at the entrance. PRICE adult €10, children - up to 13 years - FREE. Audio guide included in the price. Visited in January 2025. I put 4* as certain rooms with live plants are neglected. TO VISIT in spring until autumn. We found some pavilions closed for maintenance. There is PAID PARKING 15 minutes walk away.

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Gianmaria Paludet

Reviewed on November 20, 2024

Beautiful trip today to the botanical garden, really well kept, with a great variety of plants and an interesting botanical story to tell! I was lucky enough to have a guided tour with the university, so I was able to appreciate the beauty and commitment behind the conservation of the species. I recommend everyone to visit if you are in Padua, it is an unmissable place

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