Private Tours of Padova with a Professional Guide
Active
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
I am a native and proud Paduan. You will discover the true spirit of my amazing hometown and understand why free-thinkers and rule-breakers of the past, changed the approach both in science and religion...
Available options
Private Tours of Padova with a Professional Guide
Pickup included
What's included
Wireless tour guide system
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The most famous of the Paduan churches is the Basilica di S.Antonio, we simply call it "Il Santo". The bones of the saint rest in a chapel richly ornamented with carved marbles, the work of various artists, among them Sansovino and Falconetto. The basilica was begun a year after the death of St. Anthony 1232 and completed in the following century. On the square, in front of the Basilica is Donatello’s magnificent equestrian statue of the Venetian general Erasmo da Narni, called Gattamelata It was cast in 1453, and was the first full-size bronze cast since antiquity.
2
At the centre of the historical city, the buildings of Palazzo del Bò, the old University founded in 1222. The list of professors and alumni is long and illustrious, containing, among others, the names of the anatomist Vesalius, Copernicus, Fallopius, Galileo Galilei, William Harvey. It is also where, in 1678, Elena Lucrezia Cornaro Piscopia became the first woman in the world to graduate. The university hosts the oldest anatomy theatre, built in 1594. Please note that:
Self-guided tours are not available at Palazzo Bo: access to the building is only possible by guided tour. I can gladly reserve your ticket, no prepayment requested.
3
Palazzo Della Ragione (Salone) with its great hall on the upper floor, is reputed to have the largest roof unsupported by columns in Europe; the walls are covered with allegorical frescoes. The first Palazzo was begun in 1172 and finished in 1219. In 1306, Fra Giovanni, an Augustinian friar, covered the whole with one roof. Beneath the great hall, there are two centuries-old markets: Piazza Frutti, Piazza Erbe.
4
In the Piazza dei Signori is the beautiful loggia called the Gran Guardia, (1493–1526), and the Palazzo del Capitaniato, the residence of the Venetian governors.
5
It has been the commercial heart of Padova since pre-roman times. It still hosts a bustling and colourful fruit and vegetable market (Mon through Sat)
6
It's the third square built in the heart of Padova and around the huge medieval Palazzo della Ragione, it hosts a market too (Mon through Sat)
Available languages
Audio guide
DE
EN
IT
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
10 reviews
5★
9
4★
1
3★
0
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Tripadvisor
5.0
8 reviews
5★
8
4★
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3★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
I will meet the guests in front of the main entrance of the Basilica, i will wear my badge with my name on it.
About Padua
Padua is a historic city in northern Italy known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. It is home to one of the world's oldest universities and a vibrant art scene, making it a must-visit for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.
Top Attractions
Scrovegni Chapel
The Scrovegni Chapel is famous for its stunning frescoes by Giotto, which are considered some of the most important works of the early Renaissance.
Historical/Art
1 hour
€13 (includes audio guide)
Padua Cathedral (Duomo di Padova)
The Padua Cathedral is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Saint Anthony of Padua.
Religious/Architecture
30 minutes
Free (donations welcome)
Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua
This basilica is one of the most important religious sites in Italy and is dedicated to Saint Anthony, the patron saint of Padua.
Religious/Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Prato della Valle
Prato della Valle is one of the largest squares in Europe and is surrounded by beautiful statues and a picturesque canal.
Historical/Landmark
30 minutes
Free
University of Padua Botanical Garden
This botanical garden is one of the oldest in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features a wide variety of plants and a beautiful historic greenhouse.
Nature/Historical
1-2 hours
€10
Must-Try Local Dishes
Risotto al Tastasal
A traditional Paduan risotto made with a spiced sausage called tastasal, which is a mix of pork, garlic, and spices.
Main Course
Contains pork
Bigoli con l'Anatra
A dish of duck ragout with bigoli, a type of thick spaghetti, served with a rich duck sauce.
Main Course
Contains duck
Frittelle di Riso
Sweet rice fritters, a traditional dessert from Padua, often filled with cream or jam.
Dessert
Vegetarian (check for dairy or egg content)
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby Euganean Hills
Biking along the city's bike paths
Visiting the University of Padua Botanical Garden
Enjoying a coffee at Caffè Pedrocchi
Exploring the Scrovegni Chapel
Visiting the Basilica of St. Anthony
Boating on the Brenta River
Visiting the historic cafes and museums
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
The best time to visit Padua is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. This period offers pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French, German
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Padua is a generally safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it is important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
- • Use metered taxis or ride-sharing apps to avoid overcharging
- • Be cautious of distractions and common scams
Getting there
By air
- Marco Polo Airport • 35 km from Padua
- Treviso Airport • 60 km from Padua
By train
Padua Railway Station
By bus
Padua Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system in Padua is extensive and covers most of the city. Buses are the primary mode of public transportation and are efficient and affordable.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Centro Storico (Historic Center)
Prato della Valle
Arcella
Day trips
Venice
35 km • Full day
Venice is a unique and romantic city built on water, known for its canals, gondolas, and historic architecture.
Verona
100 km • Full day
Verona is a historic city known for its Roman amphitheater, medieval architecture, and as the setting of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.
Vicenza
35 km • Half day
Vicenza is a city known for its Palladian architecture and historic landmarks, including the famous Teatro Olimpico.
Festivals
Festa del Santo • June 13
PadovaFiere • Various dates throughout the year
Pro tips
- Visit the Scrovegni Chapel early in the morning to avoid long queues and crowds
- Explore the historic center on foot to discover hidden gems and local charm
- Try local specialties like Risotto al Tastasal and Frittelle di Riso for an authentic culinary experience
- Use the bus system for efficient and affordable travel within the city
- Consider a day trip to nearby cities like Venice or Verona for a well-rounded Italian experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
