padua free tour

Free Walking Tour Padua

Free Walking Tour Padua invites you to embark on a captivating journey through the historic streets and cultural treasures of this charming Italian city. Begin your adventure at the iconic Prato della Valle, where the grandeur of one of Italy’s largest squares sets the stage for exploration. From there, venture to the historic heart of Padua, where the magnificent Basilica di Sant’Antonio and the renowned Scrovegni Chapel await, showcasing centuries of religious significance and artistic brilliance. Wander through the atmospheric streets of the historic center, discovering architectural marvels like the Palazzo della Ragione and the charming Piazza delle Erbe. Indulge in the flavors of authentic local cuisine at a traditional osteria before finding tranquility amidst the lush greenery of the Orto Botanico, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world.

General information

Meet your guide at the Prato della Valle.

Tip only basis. You must tip your guide at the end of the tour. It is recommended to tip from 10 to 20 euros per person.

Booking this tour is mandatory

Free Walking Tour Padua – Itinerary

Free Walking Tour Padua begins at the iconic Prato della Valle, one of the largest and most picturesque squares in Italy, where we’ll gather eager travelers from around the world. With its central location and stunning beauty, Prato della Valle serves as the perfect meeting point for our exploration.

From Prato della Valle, we’ll venture towards the historic heart of Padua, where landmarks like the magnificent Basilica di Sant’Antonio await. As we marvel at the basilica’s Byzantine domes and intricate marble façade, we’ll uncover the religious significance and artistic treasures housed within.

Next on our itinerary is the renowned Scrovegni Chapel, adorned with masterpieces by the Italian painter Giotto. As we step inside this intimate space, we’ll be transported back in time by Giotto’s exquisite frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Christ.

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In Free Walking Tour Padua, we’ll meander through the atmospheric streets of the historic center, where every corner reveals a new architectural gem or hidden gem. From the grand Palazzo della Ragione to the charming Piazza delle Erbe, we’ll delve into Padua’s rich tapestry of art, history, and culture.

No visit to Padua would be complete without sampling its culinary delights, and our tour ensures a taste of authentic local flavors. We’ll make a pit stop at a traditional osteria to savor a glass of regional wine and perhaps indulge in some cicchetti, Venetian-style small plates.

Our final destination brings us to the tranquil Orto Botanico, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, where we’ll wander amidst lush greenery and fragrant blooms, soaking in the beauty of nature.

Frequent asked questions

What is the maximum of participants for the free walking tour in padua.

The maximum of participants is 15 people.

Can this free tour be done for one single group?

If you want a tour for only your group, please request a quotation for a private tour.

Can my children participate in this walking tour?

Of course, in Free Tour Padua everyone is welcome.

Do we see all the places listed in the itinerary?

The itinerary of this tour may change sometimes.

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Padua Downtown Tour

Overview of the tour in Padua

Our tour of Padua's historic center will immerse you in its rich history with roots dating back to ancient Rome. From palaces and temples to lively squares, the architectural beauty of this charming city will reveal centuries of fascinating culture and history with every step. Its piazzas, markets, outdoor cafes and quaint stores are ideal for exploring Italian culture and enjoying local food. This beautiful city offers a perfect blend of its ancient past and the vitality of modern life.

This activity includes:

• Piazza Eremitani

Meeting point

Piazza Eremitani, Padua, Province of Padua, Italy

Our meeting point will be in Piazza Eremitani. Our guide will carry a Spanish flag.

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You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.

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FREE TOUR PADUA

The best option to discover the city in an economical way., what does the free tour padua consist of, possibly your best option to get to know padua in a fun and authentic way..

A moment of culture and fun for everyone.

Enjoy your free tour in Padua as a couple, with friends or in a group!

Free tours in Padua are the perfect pretext to take the time to get to know better the cultural heritage of Italy.

Padua free tours are free tours organized by guides who show you the most emblematic tourist sites of a town or city. These tours are usually done on foot.

While there are several options and types of free tours in Italy, most are usually tours that include approximately 10 to 12 people. and last between 1 and 3 hours depending on the planned itinerary.

In any case, always check the detailed information we provide to know all the details of your free tour Padua: schedules, cancellation policy, meeting point and all the information you need to make the most of your experience without having to worry about anything.

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Self-Guided Walking Tour of Padua (with Maps!)

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Padua is a city in the Veneto region in the northeast of Italy and is home to the second oldest university in Italy (the oldest is in Bologna). This, plus the historical wealth of the city, has created a legacy of grand buildings, many filled with the medieval frescoes for which Padua is famous. There is an Italian popular saying: “Venice is beautiful, Padua is her sister”. 

It has two UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list. Once for its 14th-century frescoes and another for its Orto Botanico – the oldest academic botanical garden in the world!

It is also an important place of pilgrimage: St Anthony is buried in Padua and the 25 km Walk of Saint Anthony ends here. Then there is the Shakespeare connection: this was the setting for his play  Taming of the Shrew . As you walk the shady colonnaded streets you can imagine yourself back in that world, in the place that Petruchio describes as “fair Padua, nursery of the arts”.

How to get to Padua?

By Car: Padova is strategically located at the crossroads of major motorways in Italy. For those traveling from the west (Venice) to the east (Milan), you can access the A4 motorway (Venice-Milan) and take the Padova Est exit if you are coming from Venice or the Padova Ovest exit if you are arriving from Milan. If your journey brings you from the south (Bologna) to Padova, you’ll be on the A13 motorway (Bologna-Padova). Take the Padova Sud exit, and from there, you can follow the signs guiding you to the center of Padova or continue in the direction of the A4 motorway (Milan-Venice) if you wish to travel east.

Warning: The centre of Padova is a Traffic-Restricted Area (ZTL).

Parking: The most convenient parking is Piazza Rabin , just to the south of Prato della Valle – about € 1.50 an hour. From here head north through the arch to arrive at Prato della Valle.

Padua is easy to reach by train from many other nearby Italian cities. All the trains that move between Milan-Venice and Bologna-Venice stop in Padua. To get to the centre from the train station walk down Corso del Popolo.

Prato della Valle

Prato della Valle, Italy’s largest square, stands as one of Padua’s most iconic attractions. Covering an expansive area of 90,000 square meters, it boasts an elliptical shape. The square is bordered by a canal that encircles an oval space known as the Isola Memmia, named after Andrea Memmo, the visionary behind Prato della Valle in the 18th century.

Two concentric rings of statues grace the perimeter of the canal, totaling 78 in all, each representing prominent figures intertwined with the rich history and culture of Padua. For instance, statue number 36 pays homage to Galileo Galilei, who famously declared that he “spent the happiest 18 years of his life living and teaching in Padua.” Statue number 35 commemorates the renowned humanist and poet Petrarch, who was a frequent visitor to Padua in the 14th century. Statue number 21 immortalizes the illustrious Renaissance artist Andrea Mantegna, who both studied and worked in Padua. Notably, pinpoint 12 on this list leads to the opportunity to view Mantegna’s renowned cycle of frescoes in the Church of the Eremitani in Padua.

Prato della Valle serves as a vibrant hub for many of Padua’s major events and festivals. It regularly hosts bustling markets, featuring an array of fresh produce, vintage items, and assorted treasures.

Take a moment to explore Prato della Valle, and you’ll discover a treasure trove of picturesque opportunities. The stately Lodge Amulea and the imposing structure of the Basilica of Santa Giustina present splendid subjects for your photography. Be sure to capture the beauty of these landmarks with your camera to preserve the memories of your visit.

Orto Botanico

Walk straight through the oval park, then walk anti-clockwise around it before turning onto Via Beato Luca Belludi. Quickly turn off to the right to walk down the pedestrianised Via Donatello, after 200m you arrive at the University of Padua Botanical Gardens.

Padua’s Botanical Garden holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest University Botanical Garden that remains in its original location. Established in 1545 under the patronage of the Venetian Republic, its primary purpose was to assist students at Padua University in their studies of pharmacology and medicinal plants.

Today, this garden is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to a remarkable collection of over 7,000 botanical species. Among its remarkable inhabitants is a palm tree that has graced the garden for more than four centuries. It’s worth noting that Goethe’s “Essay on the Metamorphosis of Plants” was inspired during his visit to Padua University Botanical Garden. Here, he encountered the age-old palm tree, dedicating time to its observation and study.

The botanical garden is divided into two distinct sections:

Historical Garden: This segment represents the original garden as it was conceived in 1545. Its layout takes the form of a circular shape, symbolizing the world, enclosing a square that is further divided into four smaller squares. The garden features strategically placed fountains and water features, making it a delightful spot to explore, even on warm summer days. Encircling the Historical Garden is a towering circular wall, erected centuries ago to deter theft of valuable medicinal plants.

Biodiversity Garden: Inaugurated in September 2014, this modern addition to Padua University Botanical Garden is housed within a contemporary glass structure. A visit to this garden provides a journey through various global climate zones, from the most arid to the lushest, allowing visitors to admire plant life indigenous to each region.

Padua University Botanical Garden has played a pivotal role in the advancement of botany and pharmacology. It was instrumental in introducing several economically significant plants, such as sunflowers and potatoes, to Italy. Prospero Alpini, the garden’s director in the early 17th century, was the first European to provide a comprehensive description of the coffee plant and its medicinal properties. This garden stands as a testament to the invaluable contributions of botany and botanical research to science and society.

Visitng Orto Botanico: November – March 10am-5pm. April – September 10am-7pm. Adults €10 https://www.ortobotanicopd.it/en/tickets-and-subscriptions

Piazza del Santo & Equestrian Statue of Gattamelata

Head back to the entrance of the gardens. After crossing the small bridge, turn off Via Donatello and walk up Via Orto Botanico until you reach the Piazza del Santo.

One of the main reasons for visiting the Piazza del Santo is it see the Equestrian Statue of Gattamelata. It is one of the most famous statues in Italy, made by Donatello in 1446, it represents Erasmo da Narni, who was a soldier fighting for the church and for the Venetian Republic. His nickname was Gattamelata. It was the first equestrian statue of this size since antiquity and was commissioned by the soldier’s wife and son. The house in which Donatello lived during his time in Padua is located opposite the Basilica.

Basilica of Sant’Antonio

Padua is affectionately known as the City of the Saint due to the deep and heartfelt devotion of its locals to St. Anthony. The term “Il Santo” is used by the citizens of Padua to refer both to the Saint himself and to the exquisite basilica that enshrines his relics.

Originally constructed between 1232 and 1310, with subsequent modifications over the centuries, the Basilica of St. Anthony stands as Padua’s most significant religious landmark. Annually, it welcomes five million pilgrims. This basilica is a must-visit, showcasing a harmonious blend of architectural styles, magnificent frescoes, numerous chapels holding precious relics, and a wealth of masterpieces.

Key highlights within the basilica include:

• Chapel of St. Anthony: A splendid Renaissance masterpiece where visitors come to offer their prayers before the Saint’s tomb.
• Chapel of the Relics (Treasury Chapel): Here, you can behold the Incorrupt Tongue of St. Anthony, along with numerous other revered relics. The meticulous craftsmanship and artistry evident in the design and creation of the reliquaries, chalices, and religious artifacts preserved here are truly breathtaking.
• Presbytery and Main Altar: This area is a magnificently frescoed and ornamented space, adorned with 15th-century statues and bas-reliefs by the renowned artist Donatello. These are among the most prized artistic treasures within the Basilica.
• Cloisters: These cloisters are not only beautifully maintained but also house fragments of preserved frescoes, providing a glimpse into the basilica’s rich history.
• Museums of the Basilica: These museums offer an opportunity to delve deeper into the life and work of St. Anthony and to admire a collection of artworks owned by the Basilica.
• Oratory of St. George and School of the Saint: Two small buildings adjacent to the main body of the Basilica. The first hosts one of the most precious 14th-century fresco cycles. The second features a series of frescoes by Titian and other renowned local painters.

Information for Visiting Anthonian Museum, Oratory of St George & Little School:  Open Tuesday to Sunday 9.00 to 13.00 and 14.00 to 18.00, Adult Ticket €7 https://www.santantonio.org/en/content/times-and-single-ticket-various-museums-shrine

MUSME - Museum of the History of Medicine

From the square head away from the Equestrian statue of Gattamelata up the Via del Santo. At the end when you reach Via S. Francesco turn right to see the MUSME – Museo di Storia della or left to see the MUSME – Museo di Storia della or right to reach the Palazzo Bo.

MUSME is a collection of exhibits that describe the history of medicine. Since the University of Padua houses one of the oldest medical schools in the world, it is fitting for this museum to be located in the historic center of Padua, within walking distance of the medical school. Exhibits explain gross anatomy, the development of pharmacology, surgery and also focus on the evolution of medical education.

Come out of the building and turn right onto Via S. Francesco. You will pass Piazza Antenore which has the Tomb of Anthenor. This is a historical medieval tomb, falsely attributed to the mythical founder of Padua, more probably the remains of a Hungarian warrior and not the Trio prince.

Opposite this is the Palazzo Romanin Jacur. A 14century palace that Dante lived in Padua during his exile.

At the end of the piazza is the location of the Ponte San Lorenzo, the remains of a segmental stone bridge with 3 arches, built by the Romans from 47—30 BCE. Unfortunately now inaccessible and not visible from the street.

At the next block turn north onto Via VIII Febbraio to reach Palazzo Bo.

Take a guided tour of the University of Padova, one of the oldest in Europe, where Galileo taught for a dozen years, and which awarded the first Ph.D. in the world to a woman in the 17th century). It is a fabulous renaissance building and tiered courtyard that housed the main campus of the University of Padua’s medical school for centuries. As such, it is decorated to the hilt with the family crests of all the illustrious teachers and alumni who have walked these old stone floors.

Look out for the lectern where Galileo taught!

Cafe Pedrocchi

Carry on north on Via VIII Febbraio to reach Piazzetta Cappellato Pedrocchi, or to skip it take first left to go straight up Via Guglielmo Oberdan another bloack to see Pedrocchi Café.

Walk past the historic Pedrocchi Café. Known for its part in the 1848 riots against the Habsburg monarchy, as well as for being an attraction for artists over the last century from the French novelist Stendhal to Lord Byron to the Italian writer Dario Fo. Pricing is as you would expect for a historic building.

The Roman Arena and the Arena Gardens

Head north out of Piazza Cavour, one of the main squares, dedicated to Camillo Benso, Count of Cavour, one of the most important Italian politic leaders at the time of of early Italian independence wars and first Prime Ministero of Italian Kingdom in 19th century. Continue past Piazza Garibaldi, leaving it to walk along Corso Guiseppe Garibaldi. You will see the Roman Arena on your right and the The Palazzo Zuckermann Museum on your left.

The Roman Arena of Padua was an amphitheatre used for gladiator games in the ancient Patavium. The Arena ruins are now part of the Giardini dell’Arena park. Today, only a few ruins remain part of the bearing walls and a series of arches. The remains of the Arena have recently undergone a cleaning and restoration process. In parallel, an excavation project is also underway to bring to light the original structures of the Arena, floors and foundations, buried over the centuries by numerous stratifications and subsequent building works.

Palazzo Zuckermann

The palazzo is home to the Museum of Applied and Decorative Arts, with over two thousand exhibits that might be called the hidden patrimony of the Padua City Museums. It also houses the Museo Bottacin, which has a rich collection of medals and coins. The neoclassical facade of the building has elements influenced by the Liberty style – the Italian version of Art Nouveau.

Chiesa degli Eremitani

The Church of the Eremitani (Chiesa degli Eremitani) is a 13th-century Gothic-style church known for its rich collection of artworks. Tragically, during the Second World War, the church suffered damage when it was mistakenly bombed by the Allied Forces. It is said that the proximity of the German headquarters in Padua to the church led to this unfortunate incident. Despite being on the ‘do not bomb’ list of cultural heritage sites, it became a casualty of war.

The most severe damage was inflicted on the church’s Ovetari Chapel, which had been adorned with frescoes by a group of renowned Renaissance artists in the 15th century. Among these artists, Andrea Mantegna’s name shines brightly. Mantegna had a unique approach to painting, which resembled the work of a sculptor wielding a paintbrush. His skill in depicting finely sculpted bodies, expressive faces, and intricate architectural backgrounds has garnered admiration for centuries. Many of his paintings now grace famous museums and galleries worldwide.

When the bombs struck the Church of the Eremitani on March 11, 1944, Mantegna’s frescoes crumbled into a staggering 88,000 fragments. This incident represented Italy’s most devastating art loss during the war. Only many decades later, thanks to advanced software, were the frescoes meticulously reconstructed, resembling a massive jigsaw puzzle with numerous missing pieces. Observing the restored frescoes in person brings to light the truly devastating impact of war on cultural treasures.

Musei Civici di Padova

Walk anti clockwise around the arena and you will come to the Musei Civici di Padova.

Part of the Eremitani Civic Museums complex, the palazzo houses the Museum of Applied and Decorative Arts and the Bottacin Museum in its rooms. The museum complex is headquartered in Piazza Eremitani, in the cloisters of the former Augustinian monastery adjacent to the Church of the Eremitani. But the Eremitani Civic Museums encompasses a series of monumental sites and various museums located in different buildings in Padua, showcasing an expansive collection ranging from archaeological objects to medieval and modern art.

Cappella degli Scrovegni

Cone out of the Musei Civici di Padova and turn left you will see the Cappella degli Scrovegni backing onto the Roman Arena.

The Scrovegni Chapel, located in Padua, was adorned with an array of magnificent frescoes by the renowned artist Giotto in the early years of the 14th century. This remarkable transformation of the chapel was commissioned by the local moneylender, Enrico Scrovegni.

Giotto’s position as one of the most significant painters in history is indisputable, as he played a pivotal role in redefining the boundaries of pictorial expression. His influence on the art world is immeasurable, casting a long and enduring shadow across the annals of art history. To discuss the history of art without acknowledging the profound impact and enduring legacy of Giotto would be incomplete.

Among Giotto’s many masterpieces, the fresco cycle in Padua’s Scrovegni Chapel stands as his crowning achievement. This breathtaking work of art is a testament to his unparalleled talent and artistic vision, and it remains a cherished treasure for all who have the privilege of experiencing it.

Ponte Molino

Cross back over Corso Guiseppe Garibaldi and walk along Via Giotto. Turn third left down Via del Carmine and when you get to the end turn left to get to Ponte Molino.

Ponte Molino is an ancient Roman bridge featuring five graceful arches. Its construction dates back to the years 30-40 AD, and it offers enchanting vistas of the Bacchiglione River. This bridge is among the few surviving Roman bridges in Padua and a rare example of an ancient bridge designed for the passage of both pedestrians and vehicles.

The bridge earned its current name, “Molino,” due to the presence of floating watermills operating adjacent to it from the 10th century until the late 19th century.

The road that traverses this bridge was historically Padua’s most important street, known as “Stra’ Maggiore.” It was watched over by the Torre di Ezzelino, an imposing tower constructed by a famous medieval tyrant. While the tower can still be seen at the far end of the bridge, your attention may also be captivated by another significant structure that stands beside Ponte Molino – the renowned Porta Molino.

Porta Molino, a substantial gate, was erected in the 13th century and formerly served as the most critical gate in Padua’s medieval defensive walls. Local legend has it that the gate’s height was such that Galileo Galilei used it as an observatory for his celestial observations.

Piazza dei Signori & Torre dell'Orologio

Walk across Ponte Molino and down Via Dante Alighieri. When you reach Piazza dei Signori you will see the Torre dell’Orologio on your right.

The Torre dell’Orologio is a clock tower situated in Piazza Dei Signori, nestled between the Palazzo del Capitanio and the Palazzo dei Camerlenghi in Padua, Italy. It is also known as the astronomical clock of Padua. The tower’s construction commenced in 1426 and was completed around 1430. The tower was commissioned by Prince Ubertino de Carrara, a member of the Carrara clan in Padua, who served as the Lord of Padua from 1338 to 1345. Subsequently, it was expanded to accommodate the new clock, which was crafted in 1427. The clock itself was finished in 1434. In 1436, decorative elements were added to the clock’s dial, and a year later, the clock tower was inaugurated. At the tower’s base, the grand triumphal arch, designed by Giovanni Maria Falconetto, was incorporated in 1531.

The clock’s design and construction were overseen by Giovanni Dondi dell’Orologio, also known as Giovanni de’ Dondi, an Italian physician, astronomer, and mechanical engineer. Gian Petro Dalle Caldiere provided assistance during the process. The clock’s design features references to the zodiac. However, the original clock did not include the Libra sign, as in the pre-Roman system, Scorpio and Libra were considered one zodiac sign.

The clock’s dial portrays the Earth at its centre, displaying the phases of the Moon, days, months, and the zodiac signs. Today, the clock is accessible to the public, with a group of volunteers known as Salvalarte ensuring that such sites remain open for public enjoyment. This group is affiliated with a nationwide environmental association.

Duomo di Padova

Walk past the Torre dell’Orologio along Via Monte di Pietà until you reach the Piazza Duomo.

Although the interior of the Duomo is quite simple, it is worth to visit this beautiful renaissance style church.  There is separate entry to the baptistry so you do not need to go in via the cathedral, which costs 3 euros. The 12 century baptistry of the Duomo contains one of the most complete medieval fresco cycles to survive in Italy.

Palazzo della Ragione

Either return to the Piazza dei Signori and walk past the Chiesa di San Clemente or walk down Via Daniele Manin to reach the Palazzo della Ragione.

It is worth visiting Palazzo Della Ragione and you should make time to go inside to see the frescoes. It is a stunning medieval town hall that was built in the 13th century. There are three floors, the underground has Roman ruins but is not always accessible to the public. Secondly, the ground floor is a wonderful place to get something to eat because it is full of cafes and then finally the top floor is where you will find the frescoes.

Head south down Via Roma to return to Prato della Valle.

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A local’s guide to Padua, Italy: home of the Aperol spritz and ancient wonders

Emanuela Padoan leads the way to 14th-century frescoes, fabulous bazaars, the world’s oldest botanical gardens and tiramisu to die for

The giant, open-air market in Piazza delle Erbe is a riotous celebration of food. Scores of colourful stalls sit in the shadow of the medieval Palazzo della Ragione, while two long, covered arcades, called the Salone, are lined with irresistible delicatessens specialising in salami and prosciutto, parmesan cheese, salt cod and fresh pasta.

Book a table for lunch at the nearby Osteria l’Anfora , a cucina casalinga (home-style cooking) institution, where a €10, steaming plate of spaghetti with sausage and radicchio can be followed by a Veneto speciality such as creamy baccalà . Its tiramisu is to die for. While Padua has few genuine vegetarian restaurants, pescatarians will find delicious seafood dishes at Enotavola Pino , which also has a terrific selection of natural and organic wines.

Inspiration

Right in the town centre, running alongside the Piovego canal, the Giardini dell’Arena is a beautiful park boasting a Roman arena and the Cappella degli Scrovegni, a 14th-century church with incredible frescoes by Giotto – you will never see more amazing shades of blue. Until a few years ago, the gardens were the haunt of drug dealers and gangs, too scary to even walk through.

Today, the city council has reclaimed them, bringing the people back in with kiosks selling street food and drinks, and organising concerts, theatre and yoga. And this was done not to attract tourists, but for the padovani themselves. Our glamping guests often remark on how “genuine” Padua feels compared with Venice.

Neighbourhood

The life and beating heart of Padua is the ancient Ghetto, a maze of narrow, arcaded streets that run off Piazza delle Erbe. The Jewish community was segregated here from 1603 until 1797, when the neighbourhood was opened up by Napoleon, and today, tourists visit the Jewish Museum and synagogue.

Just as lively during the day as at night, it is rich with antique and fashion stores; Manfrotto and Tessuti Bevilacqua are fabulous textile bazaars; and Music Addict is where local DJs go for vintage vinyl. The old-fashioned Osteria dei Fabbri is the place to eat, while the shaded terrace of hip Caffè della Piazzetta is ideal for an aperitivo.

Green space

Everyone in Padua is proud of the Orto Botanico . Founded in 1545 to cultivate medicinal plants under the supervision of the city’s ancient university, it is the world’s oldest botanical garden and Unesco-listed. You can just walk around and enjoy the 6,000 exotic plants, trees and flowers, but for a first visit, it is worth joining a guided tour.

Near the Orto is the vast Prato della Valle. This elliptical piazza is Italy’s largest square and surrounded by 78 marble statues set there in the 18th century. It’s quite a sight and hosts concerts, markets and food fairs.

A night out in Padua has to kick off in the Piazza della Frutta, with a stand-up snack at street-food stall La Folperia , which sells octopus cooked a dozen different ways, accompanied by a glass of prosecco. Next door is the teeming terrace of Bar dei Osei, famous for its spritz.

Don’t listen to what Venetians say, Aperol spritz was invented in Padua. Everyone has to have at least one at the 18th-century Caffè Pedrocchi . During the day, the plush salons are perfect for yummy cakes and pastries, hot chocolate and cappuccino, but it is packed at night too, for cocktails and grappa. Enoteca Treccani is the place to try local wine and listen to live jazz, while my daughter says the favourite student hangout for clubbing, DJs and concerts is Fishmarket.

A three-room B&B in a 14th-century tower, with lush gardens, the Massimago Wine Tower is owned by a winemaker, who can organise a vineyard tour too (doubles from €120) .

Emanuela Padoan studied at Padua University, then worked in the city as a lawyer before starting Italy’s first glamping site, the Canonici di San Marco , between Padua and Venice

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Free Walking Sightseeing Tour #4 in Padua, Italy

Guided free walking tours.

Book free guided walking tours in Padua.

Guided Sightseeing Tours

Book guided sightseeing tours and activities in Padua.

Explore Padua in Italy with this free self-guided walking tour . The map shows the route of the tour. Below is a list of attractions, including their details.

Sight 1: Museo della Fisica Giovanni Poleni

The Museum of History of Physics is located at the "Galileo Galilei" Physics and Astronomy Department of the University of Padua. The museum preserves a collection of ancient scientific tools closely linked to the scientific past of the University of Padua, which from the eighteenth century was characterized by innovation and experimental vocation.

Wikipedia: Museo di storia della fisica dell'Università di Padova (IT) , Website

Sight 2: Chiesa della Beata Vergine Maria Immacolata

The church of the Immaculate Madonna, also known as the church of Santa Maria Iconia, is a religious building that stands in Borgo Portello, now Via Belzoni in Padua. The current building was built in the fifties of the nineteenth century on a previous medieval one, dedicated to Santa Maria Iconia which was first of the Knights Templar, then commandery of the Knights of Malta who ruled it, with San Giovanni Battista delle Navi, until the Napoleonic ecclesiastical suppressions. Inside is the body of Blessed Antonio Manzoni, known as "the Pilgrim".

Wikipedia: Chiesa dell'Immacolata (Padova) (IT)

Sight 3: Chiesa di San Francesco

The church dedicated to saint Francis of Assisi, known for centuries as San Francesco Grande is a religious building on the Via San Francesco, previously overlooks the Contra porteghi high in Padua, Italy. Through the efforts of Baldo de Bonafarii and Sibilla de Cetto, the convent of the Friars Minor and the Hospital of Saint Francis, Major, operated until 1798.

Wikipedia: San Francesco Grande, Padua (EN)

Sight 4: Tomba di Antenore

The Tomb of Antenor, also called the Sepulchre of Antenore, is a 13th-century monument created to honor an unearthed ancient sarcophagus, claimed to be that of the Trojan warrior and counselor Antenor, the legendary founder of Padua; it is located in Piazza Antenore, in Padua, region of Veneto, Italy.

Wikipedia: Tomb of Antenor (EN)

Sight 5: Ponte San Lorenzo

The Ponte San Lorenzo is a Roman bridge over the river Bacchiglione in Padua, Italy. Constructed between 47 and 30 BC, it is one of the very earliest segmental arched bridges in the world. It is also notable for the slenderness of its piers, unsurpassed in antiquity.

Wikipedia: Ponte San Lorenzo (EN)

Sight 6: Museo dell'Educazione

The Museum of Education of the University of Padua is located at the Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Pedagogy and Applied Psychology FISPPA and preserves material from the past relating to the formation of the individual, starting from birth to adulthood.

Wikipedia: Museo dell'Educazione (IT)

Sight 7: Farfalle Dal Cappello (Kenny Random)

Kenny Random, a pseudonym of Andrea Coppo, is an Italian artist and writer.

Wikipedia: Kenny Random (IT) , Website

Sight 8: Duomo di Padova

Padua Cathedral, or Basilica Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption, is a Catholic church and minor basilica located on the east end of Piazza Duomo, adjacent to the bishop's palace in Padua, Veneto, Italy.

Wikipedia: Padua Cathedral (EN)

Sight 9: Castello Carrarese

The Castelvecchio, formerly called Castello della Torlonga but today also known as Castello di Ezzelino, or Castello Carrarese or Castello di Padova, is a fortification of early medieval origin located on the bifurcation of the Bacchiglione where it divides into Tronco Maestro and Naviglio interno. It owes its current characteristics to the Da Carrara lordship. During the nineteenth and twentieth centuries it was largely used as a state prison, while the keep, the Torlonga, has been the city's observatory since the eighteenth century.

Wikipedia: Castelvecchio (Padova) (IT)

Sight 10: Chiesa delle Dimesse

The church of Santa Maria Assunta delle Dimesse, better known as the church of the Dimesse, is a seventeenth-eighteenth-century religious building that stands in Contrà delle Dimesse in Padua. The church is part of the College of Noble Resignation founded in 1615.

Wikipedia: Chiesa delle Dimesse (IT)

Sight 11: Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie

The church of Santa Maria delle Grazie is a sixteenth-century building of worship located in Padua in Via Luigi Configliachi, near the intersection with Via Cavalletto, between the area of Vanzo and the ancient village of Santa Croce.

Wikipedia: Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie (Padova) (IT)

Sight 12: Loggia Amulea

The Loggia Amulea is a neo-Gothic palace located in Prato della Valle, the largest square in Padua. The building was the headquarters of the Padua fire brigade from 1906 to 1989; Later it houses some municipal offices. The front of the building is characterized by an elegant loggia; In the room adjacent to the large balcony, civil weddings are sometimes celebrated.

Wikipedia: Loggia Amulea (IT)

Sight 13: Palazzo Emo Capodilista

Palazzo Capodilista is a historic building in Padua.

Wikipedia: Palazzo Capodilista (IT)

Sight 14: Church of St. Daniel

San Daniele is a Roman Catholic church and monastery in Padua, region of Veneto, Italy.

Wikipedia: San Daniele, Padua (EN)

Sight 15: Loggia e Odeo Cornaro

The Loggia and Odeo Cornaro are two Renaissance buildings, built in the 16th century for the humanist Alvise Cornaro and hosting theater and music performances, locate in via Cesarotti 37 in Padua, region of Veneto, Italy. They are now part of the city's museums.

Wikipedia: Loggia and Odeo Cornaro (EN) , Website

Sight 16: Monumento equestre al Gattamelata

The Equestrian Statue of Gattamelata is an Italian Renaissance sculpture by Donatello, dating from 1453, today in the Piazza del Santo in Padua, Italy. It portrays the condottiere Erasmo da Narni, known as "Gattamelata", who served mostly under the Republic of Venice, which ruled Padua at the time. It is the first full-size equestrian statue of the Italian Renaissance.

Wikipedia: Equestrian statue of Gattamelata (EN)

Sight 17: Basilica di sant'Antonio Di Padova

The Pontifical Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua is a Catholic church and minor basilica in Padua, Veneto, Northern Italy, dedicated to St. Anthony of Padua.

Wikipedia: Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua (EN) , Website

Sight 18: Cappella di San Giacomo (Altichiero)

The chapel of St. James or St. Felix is located in the basilica of St. Anthony in Padua. Initially it was dedicated to St. James, from whom it took its name: in 1503 the relics of Pope Felix II were transferred there and therefore the chapel was dedicated to him.

Wikipedia: Cappella di San Giacomo (Padova) (IT)

Sight 19: Orto Botanico di Padova

The Orto Botanico di Padova is a botanical garden in Padua, in the northeastern part of Italy. Founded in 1545 by the Venetian Republic, it is the world's oldest academic botanical garden that is still in its original location. The garden – operated by the University of Padua and owned by the Italian government – encompasses roughly 22,000 square meters, and is known for its special collections and historical design.

Wikipedia: Orto botanico di Padova (EN) , Website

Sight 20: Abbey of Santa Giustina

The Abbey of Santa Giustina is a 10th-century Benedictine abbey complex located in front of the Prato della Valle in central Padua, region of Veneto, Italy. Adjacent to the former monastery is the basilica church of Santa Giustina, initially built in the 6th century, but whose present form derives from a 17th-century reconstruction.

Wikipedia: Abbey of Santa Giustina (EN) , Website

Disclaimer Please be aware of your surroundings and do not enter private property. We are not liable for any damages that occur during the tours.

GPX-Download For navigation apps and GPS devices you can download the tour as a GPX file .

Madonna attracts 1.6M fans for free concert in Brazil to wrap up her Celebration tour

RIO DE JANEIRO − More than a million people thronged Brazil's Copacabana beach for a free Madonna concert on Saturday, braving the heat to see the end of her "Celebration" world tour .

The sand and oceanfront boulevard around Rio de Janeiro's famed beach were filled for several blocks by a crowd the city estimated at 1.6 million.

Many had been there for hours or even days to get a good spot, while richer fans anchored in dozens of boats near the beach and onlookers crowded beachfront apartments.

Firefighters sprayed water before the concert, when temperatures exceeded 86 degrees Fahrenheit, to cool fans gathered near the pop queen's stage, and drinking water was distributed for free. Temperatures were around 81 F during the late night show.

Review: Madonna tells fans it is 'a miracle that I’m alive' at Celebration tour concert

Madonna, 65, performed songs such as "Like a Prayer," "Vogue" and "Express Yourself" for more than two hours starting at 10:45 p.m. as she wound up the greatest hits tour that started late last year.

"Rio, here we are, in the most beautiful place in the world, with the ocean, the mountains, Jesus," Madonna told the crowd, referring to the city's huge mountaintop Christ the Redeemer statue. "Magic."

Brazilian pop artists Anitta and Pabllo Vittar, as well as younger musicians from samba schools, participated in the show.

More than 3,000 police officers were deployed around the concert area, where the Rolling Stones and Rod Stewart have also drawn million-strong crowds. The authorities used a crowd-management strategy similar to their handling of the city's famous New Year's Eve celebrations.

Madonna turns 65: So naturally we rank her 65 best songs

Brazilian authorities have stepped up their vigilance to head off heat-related health problems after a young Brazilian fan died from heat exhaustion at one of Taylor Swift's Eras tour shows last year.

Rio's state and city governments said they spent 20 million reais ($3.9 million) on the concert, while the rest was financed by private sponsors. The authorities estimate the concert could bring about 300 million reais to Rio's economy.

Contributing: Leonardo Benessato, Renato Spyrro, Rodrigo Viga Gaier, Sebastian Rocandio and Sergio Queiroz in Rio de Janeiro, and Andre Romani in Sao Paulo

THE 10 BEST Padua Tours & Excursions

Padua tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Private Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. From Padua: Olive Oil & Wine in the Euganean Hills

2. Live Padua as a local

3. Padua Private Walking Tour with the Scrovegni Chapel

4. From Padua, Wine Tour in the Euganean Hills

5. From Padua: Tour to the walled town of Monselice

6. Padua Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide

7. Private Gnocchi Cooking Class with Professional Chef in Padova

8. Make Tagliatelle Bolognese with Chef Francesco

9. Full Day guided Tour of Verona and Garda Lake

10. Small Group Market tour and Cooking class in Padua

11. Florence: City Pass 25+ attractions, galleries & Hop on hop off

12. Italian Pizza Cooking Class with Chef Francesco in Padova

13. Audio guides in Padua: the main attractions of the city of the Saint

14. Tour to the Venetian Villas and the Brenta Riviera from Padua

15. Full-Day Padua to Venice Burchiello Brenta Riviera Boat Cruise

16. City Sightseeing Padua Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

17. Padua: 2-Hour Private Guided Walking Tour

18. From Padua, Full Day guided Tour of Verona and Garda Lake

19. Padua and Giotto

20. Tour to the Venetian Villas and the Brenta Riviera

21. Padua Walking Tour and Coffee Time at Caffè Pedrocchi

22. Day trip to Venice by high speed train from Padua

23. Veneto Villas, Medieval Towns and Grana Padano Production day tour

24. Padova Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour

25. Padua City Sightseeing Walking Tour of Must-See-Sites with Local Guide

26. Private Tours of Padova with a Professional Guide

27. Small Group Guided Tour of Padua from Venice

28. Magic Outdoor Escape Game in Padua

29. Sato Code Escape Room across Padua

30. Cesarine: Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Padua

What travelers are saying.

• Padua Private Walking Tour with the Scrovegni Chapel
• Padua experience like a local
• Private Padua Highlights Tour including Scrovegni Chapel and St Antonio Basilic
• Full-Day Padua to Venice Burchiello Brenta Riviera Boat Cruise
• Audio guides in Padua: the main attractions of the city of the Saint
• Questo Outdoor Escape Games in Padua
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• Delta Tour Navigazione Turistica & Crociere Fluviali
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Madonna ends Celebration tour with with free concert for 1.6 million people in Brazil

Posted: May 5, 2024 | Last updated: May 5, 2024

Madonna closed out her 'Celebration' tour with a free concert for around 1.6 million people in Brazil.

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