8 best things to do in Montagnana and Este
Last updated on December 18th, 2025.
Despite popular belief, we’re not always blessed with the best weather in Italy, especially in the north.
Take for example, our trip to Montagnana and Este. Grey skies dominated the duration of our day, but the gods thankfully spared us from any rain.
Two towns that are ideal Italy bucket list material, use this post to plan your Italy trip.
Somewhere in Padua (Padova)
Montagnana and Este are 2 small cities in the province of Padua (Padova) in northern Italy. Padua is also home to the charming Piazzola sul Brenta and its main star, Villa Contarini.
To give you an idea of their geography, Verona is to the west, while Venice is to the east.
Montagnana and Este have striking similarities, in that prominent medieval walls surround each city.
In Montagnana, the city center lies within the castle walls, much like the borgo of Asolo. In Este, there are the walls that surround the castle and a separate entrance to the center. Another thing both have in common is its size.
Montagnana and Este are both small cities and approximately 25 minutes apart by car. That said, visiting both places make a great day trip and are some of the most beautiful towns in Veneto. They also give you an up-close look into local small-town life.
Arrival in Montagnana
We visited Montagnana early morning on a Sunday. Even without any sunshine, the walls surrounded by a glossy green lawn are a captivating sight from afar.
Built in the 11th century to protect the town, the walls in Montagnana measure 2km in length and 8m in height.
Arriving early on a Sunday morning, we didn’t have any trouble in finding parking. This may not be the case if you visit later in the day, or even on a Saturday.
The heart of the city in Montagnana
There are 4 ‘doors’ to entering the city: Porta Padova, Porta Vicenza, Porta Legnago and Porta XX Settembre. Whichever door you enter through, you’ll eventually find yourself standing in the city’s main square, Piazza Vittorio Emmanuele.
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8 top things to do in Montagnana and Este
Best attractions in Montagnana
1. See the Duomo
Like many cities across Italy, its grand piazza is usually its central point. And, in Montagnana, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele is a good starting point.
The size is pretty impressive for a small city. Its focal point is its Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta. Built in the 15th century, it follows Renaissance and Gothic architectural styles.
Inside are several notable works of art, including the Transfiguration by Paolo Veronese and the fresco of the apse painted by Giovanni Buonconsiglio.
An unusual feature about the Duomo is its bell tower. Unlike other cathedrals, this bell tower’s detached from the main building and is located next to Porta Vicenza.
Duomo di Montagnana, Via S. Giovanni, 6
2. Visit the castle
While its form and name take on the castle title, Castello San Zeno — like many castles around Italy — serves another purpose.
Located near Porta Padova, the castle’s also home to a tourist office, civic museum, historical archive and a historical center.
Many of the castle’s original features are no longer there. However, you can still see signs of an internal moat and arches.
3. Admire the palaces
Montagnana is home to several palaces, though they’re much smaller than what you’d expect a palace to be.
Take Palazzo Valeri and Monte di Pietà. Both date to the 18th century, and showcase a fine example of the architecture of the time. Today, both are home to local banks.
Seeing is believing
Another palace that takes on the medieval style is the Palazzo della Cassa di Risparmio. However, unlike the first two, this palace isn’t what it seems. Built in 1924 after a devastating fire, they wanted to recreate the medieval look and feel of the existing buildings.
Located near Porta Vicenza is Palazzo Pomello Chinaglia. Differing from the classic Venetian style of the time, the palace adopts a traditional Umbrian structure.
The palace was home to several wealthy families of the period, which would later include the Pisani family. They would come to instruct Padova-born architect, Andrea Palladio, to build a larger villa outside the city walls.
If you’ve time to visit, Villa Pisani sits just beyond the walls, close to Porta Padova. The villa is one of several to see on a cruise from Padua to Venice along the Riviera Brenta.
Map: Montagnana and Este, Padova in 1 day
4. Stop by a local cafe
While in Montagnana, I’d encourage you to try one of the cafes in the center. There are plenty to choose from, offering everything from coffee and brioche, to wine and light snacks.
Best attractions in Este
You get a sense of déjà vu when approaching Este. As I mentioned in the introduction, it too has prominent medieval walls, though not as large as in Montagnana.
5. Visit Castello Carrarese
For a castle built in the 14th century, and that was destroyed several times in battle, Castello Carrarese isn’t faring too badly.
Twelve of its 14 towers are still intact, and the former palace building now houses the Atestino Museum.
Explore the gardens
For me, the highlight of Castello Carrarese are the gardens. Open to the public, it’s rich in flora and fauna, and reminiscent of a renaissance-style garden.
Wander the pebble-lined paths and admire the stone statues and grand trees overhead. Within the gardens, there’s also a café and a play area for children.
Castello Carrarese, Via G. Negri, 9
6. Explore the city center
Among its historic buildings and Venetian architecture, Este is like many other small cities in Italy.
At its heart is Piazza Maggiore. A square filled with shops, cafes and restaurants, it’s a popular meeting point for many locals. It’s also here where you’ll find the 17th century town hall building with its impressive loggia.
We stopped for a late breakfast at Salotto 38. More of an upmarket bar and café, our breakfast of cappuccinos and brioche went down well.
There was also a market (selling food and other goods) in Este on the day we visited. Fruits and vegetables were fresh and locally produced, and also incredibly cheap.
Salotto 38, Piazza Maggiore, 5
7. Admire Torre Civica di Porta Vecchia
As you wander further into the center, you eventually reach a great archway with a magnificent clock face.
This is the Torre Civica di Porta Vecchia, or the civic tower of the old gate. It dates to the end of the 17th century and stands on the site of the previous gate, which was destroyed.
There’s not much more to say, other than it’s something you shouldn’t miss seeing when visiting Este.
Torre Civica di Porta Vecchia, Via Porta Vecchia
8. Step inside the Duomo
The Duomo of Este, also known as Santa Tecla, is the city’s principle church. Sources say that the church’s site dates to the 4th or 5th century.
Since then, the church has been refurbished several times, most notably after an earthquake damaged the building in 1688.
Above the altar is an 18th century painting by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. It shows the story of Santa Tecla praying for the plague to end in Este.
I’d be stretching the truth if I told you that Santa Tecla left a great impression on me. However, while it’s nowhere near the likes of the Duomo di Siena, it’s still worth taking a look.
Duomo di Este, Via Tecla 6
Where to stay in Montagnana and Este
Visiting Montagnana and Este is an ideal 2-for-1 day trip in Padova. There’s enough to see in 1 day, or you can space it out, if you prefer, over 2 days.
Continue the medieval theme by booking a night at the fabulous Per la Dolce Vita. With a central location, the hotel offers free bikes, comfortable suites and complimentary WiFi.
Per la Dolce Vita, Via Circonvallazione, 28, Montagnana
Alternatively, La Villa is just a few steps from the historic center. Offering modern rooms and generous size Italian breakfasts, you’ve everything you need for a comfortable stay.
La Villa, Via Alberi, 45, Montagnana
What are your thoughts on Montagnana and Este in Padova? Which of the two would you most like to visit? Let me know in the comments below.
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I like the renaissance and gothic architectural styles of the Duomo I would love to visit!
Come and see it one day 🙂
Why are Italian cities so beautiful? Another two to add to my list! I love the history and the vibe of these cities. I had not heard of them before and this is what amazes me. Rome, Florence, Venice, Turin.....wonderful, but there are so many more less well known gems too.
I put it down to the history Jane! Montagnana and Este are lesser known, but they're a great day trip 🙂
There seems to be no end to the list of places in Italy like this. All are full of history and beautiful as can be. I’ll just go ahead and add another two the list Lisa.
Happy to read it John, there are so many places to discover 🙂
I went to Padua College in Australia, yet have missed out on seeing Padova twice now due to limited time on the ground in Italy. I hear great things too, so thanks for showing us a little more.
How interesting! I've never been to Australia, so I think we need to do a swap 😀
There are 859504074893 small towns and villages in Italy and I learn of new ones daily lol. I love Italian architecture and it seems that each town or region has their particular architectural design over the centuries. Interesting!
Thanks for the number Kemi, I actually didn't know that! I hope to share more with you soon 🙂
I really like visiting relics of the past, and a walk around 2 km long walls sounds like an interesting day plan to me. I will keep your article as it will definitely be useful during a trip around Italy.
Happy to hear it Ewa, I'm sure you'll enjoy it 🙂
Amazing art on the walls dated ancient years back, I just love it. The older I get the more I'm into history of places we visit.
I totally agree Mimmie, it's so interesting to find out about the past
I haven’t been to this part of Italy yet. The castle and architecture draw me. Will remember to come on a Sunday morning to avoid the crowds.
Good to hear Debra, it's a perfect time to visit 🙂
In love with those walls and renaissance-style gardens! Wish to travel there one day❤️
They're definitely two charming cities!
Montagnana looks and sounds like a fantastic place to visit. Great tip about getting there early for parking. The clock face at Torre Civica di Porta Vecchia is beautiful. Another amazing Italian town to add to my list.
Perfect Wendy, I hope there's more sunshine when you visit x
What beautiful towns and love the small town feel. The duomo and castle look amazing along with wandering the quiet streets and squares. Oh and I wouldn’t mind stopping at a few cafes for a coffee break too!
It's a must Vanessa! I always make a point to stop at one
Love the medieval buildings and it is wonderful you can stay in them overnight.
It definitely adds a charming touch Charles 😀
The castle and the gardens look so magical!
They are!
Oh wow! This place looks so great! I would love to do those things you have shared!
I hope you can visit one day 🙂
First time, I have heard/read of this place. If one day I would travel to Italy, I would include this in my itinerary.
Thanks Claire, I'm happy to read that!
I feel like you can go to any Italian town and have a pretty delightful visit. I love being introduced to new places! Although realistically I will never spell these locations correctly ?
Also, well done on the cappuccino and brioche. I approve of this message ?
I knew you would Lannie! Yes, place names aren't easy to spell so I'll let you off 😀
I have only been to Rome. There are so many other places in Italy I would love to visit.
Come back one day, there are so many places to see here 🙂
Lovely spot looks so pretty and seems like a perfect spot to wander and enjoy exploring
It is guys, two to add to the list 🙂
Ah this makes me miss Italy even more! We drove by that area but didn't stop by for a visit. Must fix that the next time we go.
Hopefully next time Kasia! They're definitely more local places to see 🙂
I love these small off-the-beaten-path Italian towns. So much history everywhere you turn.
You're so right Steven, they're very much off the beaten track 🙂
Gorgeous city...I have yet to see a spot in Italy I wouldn't want to tour through! There are so many regions to visit. It's been a long time dream of mine to visit...hopefully someday soon!
I really hope you can visit one day soon Catherine 🙂
These little towns are so cute! I love the architecture, and the Torre Civica di Porta Vecchia is absolutely remarkable.
It really is Tiffany and so wonderful up close 😀
I’m very much into all things Italian at the mo and I love discovering new places. I’m ashamed to admit, I haven’t heard of either of these towns which made them all the more appealing. Love italian castles and piazzas and coffee. And yes, from previous experience, I’m well aware that Italy isn’t always blessed with sunny weather ?
Thanks Sarah for your comment! That's ok, they're lesser known cities so I don't blame you for not knowing them
I would love to visit someday. I would like to visit the palaces and worship in the Duomo.
You must, they're such charming cities 🙂
We already thought Padua with the Cappella degli Scrovegni was quite lovely but we didn't realize how beautiful the surroundings are. If we ever make it back to this area we'll visit Montagnana and Este!
Perfect Carina, I'm sure you'll love it!
What a neat place to visit. So many interesting sights and lots of great architecture to check out.
They're great for a day trip 🙂
This spot looks like it would be packed full of history, I love seeing and learning about old buildings and castles. Thanks for sharing this! I wish to visit here someday.
It has plenty of history Luna! I hope you come and visit one day
I do want to visit Padova when travel is allowed again so bookmarking your page on where to go and what to do when I am there.
Perfect! Happy to read that 🙂
I am yet to visit Italy! If I ever go there, will surely try to visit Montagna and Este. The place looks so beautiful, gorgeous shots??
Thank you so much!
Wow this looks so beautiful. I haven't been to many castles (only when I lived in Europe). I would love to go there sometime.
Aw I hope you can visit us one day 🙂
So beautiful. I am having a vicarious experience with your posts and can only wish that someday I will get to these places.
Wonderful, that's exactly my aim 😀
Wow! It's hard to believe that places like these still exist and are still intact after so many years. It would be great to have a Medieval-themed wedding at this location.
It would, and we have so many places like this in Italy 🙂
I miss travelling and seeing such places a lot! That looks like a great selections of places for a holiday visit! Can't wait to see some of them soon! 🙂
Padua in general is great for a holiday, I hope you come soon 🙂
The Duomo looks super beautiful. I want to visit in the summer at night and take pictures there. Thanks for sharing!
It's very pretty and more so at night!
Montagnana Este Are so beautiful,you did a really good job in capturing those photos,thanks for sharing Darling!
Happy you enjoyed it!
So many beautiful towns in Italy. I can't wait to go back. I usually spend time in Northern Italy, so this is perfect!
Wonderful, you'll really enjoy these two cities 🙂
Wow! I haven't heard of these destinations but I would love to visit them. I have so much more of Italy to explore. Love your Italy content!
Thank you Jay, appreciate it!
It really looks beautiful. So rich in history, I'd love to visit some day.
You must, there's so much to see 🙂
So many great things to do, and it looks gorgeous! I can't wait to start traveling again
There are Serena, I hope we can travel again soon too!
What an amazing list. I would so enjoy it here. I'd be in the cafes stuffing my face, I won't even lie.
Good plan! That's what I usually do 😀
So beautiful seeing the medieval architecture still incorporated into modern life. These old cities away from the tourist centers are always the best!
I totally agree David, there's so much to offer in the lesser known cities 🙂
Italy looks so beautiful! I would love to visit one day. Even with grey skies it looks like a dream.
I hope you do Katrina, there are so many beautiful places to see 🙂
I love exploring off the beaten path places and Montagnana Este Padova seems to be one of them. It's fascinating to see all those beautiful paintings on the Palazzos, as you walk down the street.
Montagnana is so charming, and definitely off the beaten track. One for real lovers of Italy 🙂
I stayed in Este when I toured the Palladian Villas. It is truly a great emotion and an incredible city and itineraries, it was my only time in Veneto (beyond Venice) and I would love to go back!
Aw I hope you can come back soon!