Vicenza is reachable with a short train ride from Padova. The train ticket from Padova costs 4,50 euro for a single ride and takes just under 25 minutes. The tickets can be bought at various tabak places in the train station or from the vending machines.
My top picks for sightseeing in Vicenza
Piazza dei Signori is the heart of the city and perfect gathering point much like the city center. In the adjoining streets, there are several restaurants and shops to cater to all types of tourists
The Basilica Palladiana is a part of the UNESCO Heritage for humanity. It is symbol of Vicenza located on the south side of Piazza dei Signori. It was designed by Andrea Palladio with the roof of an inverted ship hull. It is a popular location for events and exhibitions which are hosted on the first floor in the council hall of about 50 metres long. The two sets of loggias are beautiful and not to be missed. On top floor are the beautiful terrace with panoramic viewpoints. It is possible to enjoy the lively adjoining streets of the center and the red roofs and balconies in the surrounding area.
The Olympic theatre is Andrea Palladio's last and most admired work in the city. Inaugurated in 1585, it is the oldest roofed theatre in the world inspired by the ancient Greek and Roman theatres. The famous Streets of Thebes perspective was designed by Vincenzo Scamozzi. There is 7 min light and music show offered to enjoy the theatre in its glory.
This UNESCO World Heritage site was designed for Girolamo Chiericati in 1550 by Andrea Palladio is a renowned masterpiece in the city. It hosts a massive civic collection of paintings and sculptures from the 13th to 20ty centuries. One can spend atleast half a day here and it would be completely worth the visit.
With so much of the city designed by Andrea Palladio, it is fit to visit the museum dedicated to his life journey. The museum consists of several models of his work in the Veneto region and a glimpse of his architectural genius.
Other notable mentions below if time permits
Magnificent Dominician Church housing Giovanni Bellini's masterpiece "The Baptism of Christ" and Paolo Veronese's "Adoration of the Magi".
The Sanctuary was built in 1428 for Virgin Mary. It hosts the sacred statue from the 15th century of Mater Misericordiae and paintings from Giulio Carpioni, Paolo Veronese and Bartolomeo Montagna.
It is the main workship place in the city as well as the Bishop's seat. Styled in the Gothic style, it was rebuilt several times. The cupola was designed by Andrea Palladio. Beneath the cathedral is an archaeological site from the Roman and middle ages.
FOOD RECOMMENDATION
Vegetarian restaurant inside a bio shop is an unique experience for food and groceries. The menu has several vegan and vegetarian local specialities such as raddish and pumpkin lasagna , tarts made of brocolli, spinach and mushroom risotto and much more. Check out Bio Bottega E cucina Silene.