Cycling day trip from Padua to Venice

Roll out from Padua—home to the 1222-founded University and Giotto’s frescoes in the Scrovegni Chapel—and head east on a super-flat ride along canals and quiet roads. You’ll trace the Naviglio del Brenta past riverside towns like Stra, Dolo, and Mira, with chances to peek at the Riviera del Brenta’s grand villas (think Villa Pisani in Stra or Palladio’s Villa Foscari “La Malcontenta”).

It’s about 57 km, mostly paved and easygoing, with dedicated cycleways and low-traffic stretches. Expect a few short sections of path or paving stones through town centers and the odd wooden or gravel bit near bridges, but nothing technical.

Approaching the lagoon, aim for Mestre or Tronchetto/Piazzale Roma to wrap up—remember, bicycles aren’t allowed in Venice’s historic center. From there, explore the car-free city by foot or vaporetto. Venice’s island maze and the Grand Canal are a hard-earned reward after a breezy, flat day out.

Tips: start early for villa visits and coffee stops in Dolo or Mira, bring a lock, and be ready for wind near the lagoon.