Palafabris

Palafabris / Kioene Arena Padua: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Complete Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Kioene Arena, historically known as Palafabris, is a premier indoor venue in the eastern district of Padua, Italy. Since its inauguration in 1980 as Palasport San Lazzaro, the arena has evolved into a central hub for sports, concerts, expos, and community events. Boasting a flexible capacity of up to 5,000 spectators, Kioene Arena reflects Padua’s blend of tradition and modernity, serving both local residents and visitors from across Italy and beyond (EventTravel; Concerts50).

Strategically positioned near the Padova Est motorway exit and well connected by public transport, the arena is accessible and welcoming. It’s home to the renowned Pallavolo Padova volleyball team and regularly hosts top-tier sporting competitions, major concerts, and exhibitions, playing a significant role in the cultural life of the city (CitySeeker; Veneto in Festa).

This guide provides essential information on Kioene Arena visiting hours, ticket purchasing, facilities, accessibility, and travel tips. It also highlights the arena’s architectural features and its integration with Padua’s celebrated historical sites, ensuring visitors have a seamless and enriching experience (Kioene Arena Official; TouristPlaces.Guide).

History & Naming Evolution
Architectural Highlights & Capacity
Sporting & Cultural Significance
Accessibility & Visitor Facilities
Visiting Hours & Ticket Information
Getting There & Parking
Guided Tours & Photography
Nearby Historical Sites
Visitor Tips & FAQs
References

History & Naming Evolution

Constructed as Palasport San Lazzaro in 1980, the venue has experienced several name changes—PalaBernhardsson, PalaNet, PalaFabris (in honor of sports figure Mario Fabris), and, most recently, Kioene Arena after a sponsorship with the Italian food company Kioene. Each name marks a chapter in the arena’s ongoing adaptation to the city’s needs and the influence of corporate partnerships in public infrastructure (EventTravel).

Architectural Highlights & Capacity

Kioene Arena’s utilitarian-modernist design prioritizes flexibility and spectator comfort. Recent renovations have modernized the facilities, with a seating capacity of about 3,916 for basketball and up to 5,000 for concerts and exhibitions (Concerts50). The structure features a column-free roof, allowing unobstructed views, modular seating, and robust technical infrastructure for sound and lighting.

Accessibility is central to the design, with dedicated entryways, ramps, and ample space for visitors with reduced mobility.

Sporting & Cultural Significance

Sporting Life

Kioene Arena is the home base for Pallavolo Padova, a top-tier volleyball club, and has hosted major national and international tournaments. The venue is also used for other sports including basketball, futsal, martial arts, and gymnastics, reflecting its versatile infrastructure (CitySeeker).

Cultural Events

The arena doubles as one of Padua’s leading cultural venues, welcoming Italian and international musicians, touring theater productions, and public expos. Notable performers—such as Massive Attack, Avril Lavigne, and MODÀ—have graced its stage, reinforcing its status as an entertainment destination in the Veneto region (Teatro.it; Concerts50).

Accessibility & Visitor Facilities

Kioene Arena is designed for inclusivity:

Wheelchair Access: Ramps, elevators, and reserved seating.
Accessible Restrooms: On all spectator levels.
Facilities: Food and beverage kiosks, cloakroom services, merchandise stands, and first-aid stations.
Family-Friendly: Special seating areas and children’s zones during select events.
Media & VIP Lounges: Modern press and hospitality suites.

Nearby hotels, such as Four Points by Sheraton, AC Hotel Padova, and local B&Bs, offer convenient accommodation (HikersBay).

Visiting Hours & Ticket Information

Visiting Hours

The arena is open to the public only on event days. Doors generally open 1–2 hours prior to the scheduled start time, with box offices opening around the same time. For up-to-date times, consult the official Kioene Arena website or event-specific ticketing pages.

Tickets

Where to Buy: Official arena website, authorized ticket platforms, or at the box office.
Pricing: Varies by event type and seating category. Volleyball matches: €15–€40; concerts vary.
Booking Tips: Book early for major events. Online purchase may require account registration.
ID: Some events require a photo ID matching the ticket.
Children: Reduced rates are often available.

(EventTravel; Concerts50)

Getting There & Parking

Address: Via San Marco 53, 35129 Padova.
By Train: 10-minute taxi or direct bus from Padua’s train station.
By Car: Near Padova Est exit (A4 motorway); ample paid or free parking on event days.
By Bus/Tram: Lines 10, 18, 22, or 24; tickets from newsstands or via apps.
From Venice: 30-minute train ride, then local transport (EverySteph).

Guided Tours & Photography

Guided tours are not routinely offered but may be available for groups or on request during special events. For up-to-date information, contact the arena directly (Kioene Arena Official). Photography for personal use is permitted during public events; professional photography requires prior approval.