Avventure Bellissime
Discover Historic Padua in our Padua Guided Tours
Embark on a three-hour guided walking tour with a local expert through the city of Padua, renowned for its rich history and unique attractions. Begin your journey at the Scrovegni Chapel, the city's star attraction, built in the 13th century. While modest from the outside, the chapel's interior is a treasure trove of art, housing one of Italy's most precious restored artworks. Enrico Scrovegni commissioned Giotto to adorn the chapel in memory of his father. Giotto and his followers created a cycle of frescoes depicting the lives of Mary and Jesus, featuring groundbreaking realistic elements like the first blue skies in Western painting, which heralded the onset of the Renaissance.
Padua Tours Through Sacred Art and Architecture
Continue your tour at the majestic Basilica of St. Anthony, a highlight of any visit to Padua. With its Byzantine domes and minaret-style towers, the basilica's design draws heavily on Asian architectural styles, making it second only to St. Mark's Basilica in Venice in terms of exotic beauty. The interior, richly adorned thanks to centuries of pilgrim donations, is a hub of activity year-round, not just during the official feast day on June 13th. The lively atmosphere within its cloisters and chapels offers a vivid snapshot of enduring religious devotion.
Padova Walking Tour to Discover its Academic Heritage
Padua is also home to Italy's second oldest university, founded in 1222, which attracted historical figures such as Dante, Petrarch, and Galileo Galilei. A visit to the University of Padua reveals the anatomical theatre, an architectural marvel where students once watched surgeries from galleries above the operating table. Your guide will enhance your visit with fascinating stories about the theatrical performances of surgeons in this famous anatomy room, bringing history to life. Upon request, we can also arrange a tour of the anatomy theatre, adding an extra layer of depth to your exploration of Padua’s rich academic history.
Padua Guided Tours: Medieval Marketplaces and Modern Meetings
As you wander through Padua’s medieval centre, explore the Piazza dei Signori, the site of the daily market running from early morning until midday. Dominated by a 15th-century building that once served as the council chamber for the city's ruling families, the square is a vibrant part of Paduan life. Whether you start your tour from the Padua railway station or directly at the Scrovegni Chapel, your guide will ensure a comprehensive and engaging walking tour of Padua.
The Padova walking tour starting point will be advised at the time of booking
Padua Walking Tour Accessibility
This tour is not fully accessible for wheelchair users or people with walking disabilities. However, please contact us directly and we will be able to take you on alternative routes suitable for you.
Duration: 3 hours