Free walking tours in Padua and what to see

Must-sees

Padua is a university city in the Veneto, half an hour from Venice by train. Its main sight is the Scrovegni Chapel, covered in Giotto's frescoes, part of the group of 14th-century fresco cycles declared a World Heritage Site. Visits are in timed slots and must be booked in advance. Nearby are the Eremitani Civic Museums and the church of the Eremitani.

In the centre, Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza della Frutta surround the Palazzo della Ragione, with its huge medieval hall. The university, founded in the 13th century, has its historic seat in the Palazzo Bo, with the anatomical theatre. To the south are the Basilica of St Anthony, a pilgrimage centre, and Prato della Valle, a great landscaped ellipse lined with statues. The Botanical Garden, also a World Heritage Site, is next door.

Free tours and guided visits

Padua does not have a regular free walking tour. What you will find are guided tours of the historic centre, a version that includes the Scrovegni Chapel, private tours and a hop-on hop-off bus to get between the main sights. Many travellers visit Padua on a day trip from Venice.

How long to spend

A well-planned day is enough for the Scrovegni Chapel, the centre, the Basilica of St Anthony and Prato della Valle. Book your Scrovegni ticket before you go and plan the rest around that time. With two days you can take in the university, the Botanical Garden and the museums at leisure, or head out to the Euganean Hills.

Where to stay

The historic centre is the best base: you can explore it on foot and the squares are very lively at night. The area around the Basilica of St Anthony and Prato della Valle is a little quieter. Next to the station there are practical hotels for those using Padua as a base for Venice by train. Abano Terme, nearby, offers spa hotels.