Exclusive Padua Tour: Scrovegni Chapel, Basilica & Highlights
Description
This 4-hour private tour with an expert local guide is the perfect way to experience the rich history and timeless charm of Padua. Meet your guide in Prato della Valle, one of the largest squares in Europe, and begin your journey.You’ll admire the magnificent Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua, the city’s most important religious symbol. You can also choose to visit the extraordinary Scrovegni Chapel, home to Giotto’s incomparable fresco masterpieces. Strolling through the historic center, you’ll explore lively market squares such as Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza della Frutta, where you can admire the impressive Palazzo della Ragione, once the seat of the city’s courts.The tour continues to the prestigious University of Padua, one of the oldest universities in Italy, which includes the renowned Orto Botanico di Padova, and concludes near the historic and elegant Caffè Pedrocchi, a symbol of the city’s cultural life.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Prato della Valle in Padua is one of Europe’s grandest and most enchanting squares — a sweeping elliptical plaza surrounded by a canal lined with 78 statues of famous citizens and historical figures. Its vast green lawns invite leisurely strolls, while the elegant bridges and ornate walkways create a sense of harmony and grandeur. Whether basking in the morning light or enjoying the lively atmosphere of local events, Prato della Valle is a vibrant heart of the city, blending history, art, and everyday life in an unforgettable Venetian‑style setting.
The Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua is a stunning masterpiece of religious and artistic heritage. Known as Il Santo, this majestic church draws pilgrims and visitors from around the world to admire its soaring domes, intricate sculptures, and richly decorated chapels. Inside, it houses priceless artworks by Renaissance and Baroque masters, creating a spiritual and cultural experience that is both awe-inspiring and unforgettable — a true symbol of Padua’s devotion and artistic brilliance. It welcomes tourists from all over the world during the year, expecially on June 13th when the saint is celebrated
A Real pearl of Italian Art where you can admire Giotto's masterpieces
Piazza delle Erbe in Padua is a lively and historic square that perfectly captures the city’s vibrant spirit. Once the heart of medieval commerce, it still buzzes with colorful markets, cafés, and street life. Surrounded by beautiful palaces and historic architecture, including the iconic Palazzo della Ragione, the square is a dynamic blend of history, culture, and everyday Venetian charm — a place where the past and present come alive at every corner.
Palazzo della Ragione in Padua is an impressive medieval palace that once served as the city’s courthouse. Its vast, soaring hall — one of the largest in Europe without supporting columns — is adorned with stunning frescoes and a unique wooden roof. Overlooking Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza della Frutta, the palace remains a symbol of Padua’s civic pride and a remarkable example of Gothic architecture.
The University of Padua is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Italy, founded in 1222. Renowned for its history of scientific discovery and academic excellence, it has educated generations of scholars, including Galileo Galilei. The university’s historic buildings, lecture halls, and the famous Orto Botanico, the world’s oldest academic botanical garden, reflect a rich tradition of learning, innovation, and cultural heritage that continues to thrive today.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Padua train Station
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Covid-19 Vaccination Card or Green Pass is mandatory to enter Museums and Churches
Reviews(17)
Beautiful city, perfect guide (Gina) Everything fit and gave us joy
Sylvia (I hope I am remembering correctly) was very knowledgeable about Padua, the Basilica and the Scrovegni frescoes. It was a pleasure to walk and talk with her. No questions went unanswered, and we always felt welcomed by her.
Silvia was knowledgeable and friendly, with a great sense of humor too! She provided us with all the information we needed to fully appreciate the sites we visited.
The city of Padua is very characteristic, a beautiful historic center where you can admire Italian architecture and history, just outside the historic center we find the valley lawn, an immense villa surrounded by monuments, and the basilica of the relics S. Antonio... fantastic
Caterina was absolutely superb. Her knowledge and enthusiasm were excellent and she has a delightful personality. She was happy to answer our questions and have insights into life in Padua as well as Italy in general. We could not have been happier.
Rosanna met us at the train station to begin the tour which was quite helpful. She was incredibly knowledgeable about the history, art, and culture of Padua. She spoke very good English and was very patient and kind regarding our questions and our walking pace. She sincerely wanted us to understand and enjoy the many places that we visited. I cannot imagine a more complete tour of Padua.
Our tour guide Silvia was terrific! Very personable and extremely knowledgeable. She recommended that we stop at the Caffe Pedrocchi to get their specialty café. She was not wrong!! 😋 Getting to tour both the chapel and the Basilica was a great experience. (Just remember to wear pants or long shorts to get into the Basilica) Such a charming city, too!
Silvia was an excellent guide: knowledgeable, approachable, and passionate about her city and its treasures. She kept us on time, which was very important in order to see the Scrovegni chapel, and yet we never felt rushed. She explained the Basilica of San Antonio in depth and in a way that made its history come alive. She also maximized our understanding of the Scrovegni chapel with a concise summary while inside it. We highly recommend this tour of historic Padova with Silvia as an outstanding guide.
Our tour with Carla was superb. She is very knowledgeable and made Padua even more interesting with the historical info. Loved the Scovegni chapel and San Antonio Basilica. Worth every penny!
Carla’s excellent grasp of Giotto’s works at the Scrovegni Chapel were worth the whole tour. Her knowledge of both historic and present-day Padua made for a great tour.
