Padua in a Day: From Giotto to Prato della Valle
Itineraries
A walking route through masterpieces, lively squares, and the city’s unmissable sights: from the Scrovegni Chapel to Caffè Pedrocchi, then the Saint’s cloisters and the UNESCO-listed Botanical Garden. A simple, linear itinerary to capture the essence of Padua in a single day—without rushing.
Morning — Art and history
Scrovegni Chapel: visit first thing (advance booking required); then continue to the Eremitani Museums to complete the tour.
Caffè Pedrocchi: a break in a nineteenth-century city icon.
Midday — Market squares
Walk through Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza della Frutta to Piazza dei Signori. Under the Palazzo della Ragione (the Sottosalone) you’ll find historic food shops for a quick lunch: cheeses, cured meats, and local specialties.
Afternoon — Faith and science
Head to the Basilica of Saint Anthony (the Saint’s Chapel and cloisters).
Continue to the Botanical Garden (UNESCO World Heritage) and enjoy a stroll among the greenhouses and themed gardens.
Sunset — The great ellipse
Finish at Prato della Valle, one of Europe’s largest squares: the green island, canals, and statues—perfect for golden-hour photos.
Alternatives and variants
If you love viewpoints, climb up to La Specola (the former astronomical observatory).
For a local touch, detour into the Ghetto or the Portello along the canals.
Useful tips
Tickets: check opening times and availability; some sites use timed entry slots.
Getting around: a 100% walkable itinerary; if it rains, focus on museums and historic cafés.
Family-friendly: wide squares, indoor stops, and green areas for kid-friendly breaks.
Where to stay
Stay in hotels near the historic squares to make the most of your time. Book directly on the Official Website and use #NOZIO to save.
