Scrovegni Chapel

One of the most celebrated works of Western art, the Scrovegni Chapel houses Giotto’s fresco cycle completed around 1305. It is part of the Padua Urbs Picta UNESCO World Heritage Site — a group of monuments that transformed fresco painting in Europe.

Baptistery of the Cathedral

Located next to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Baptistery contains an extraordinary fresco cycle by Giusto de’ Menabuoi (14th century), with a breathtaking dome depicting Christ and the heavenly courts.

Palazzo della Ragione & Torre degli Anziani

A medieval civic palace with one of Europe’s largest suspended halls, Palazzo della Ragione was the heart of civic life and justice. Next door, the Torre degli Anziani offers panoramic views of the historic center.

Basilica of Saint Anthony (“Il Santo”)

Known simply as Il Santo, this basilica attracts pilgrims and visitors from around the world. Its architecture blends Romanesque, Byzantine, and Gothic elements, and inside you’ll find a treasury of art and relics dedicated to St. Anthony of Padua.

Abbey & Basilica of Santa Giustina

One of the largest monastic complexes in Italy, the Abbey of Santa Giustina includes the basilica rebuilt in the 17th century. It houses major artworks and traces of medieval religious life.

Prato della Valle

One of Europe’s largest public squares, Prato della Valle features a grand elliptical space with a canal surrounded by statues. It is a favorite place for walks, markets, events, and relaxation.

Orto Botanico di Padova (Botanical Garden)

Founded in 1545, the Orto Botanico di Padova is the world’s oldest university botanical garden still in its original location, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore over 6,000 plant species, historic greenhouses, and themed gardens.

Caffè Pedrocchi

An iconic 19th-century café, open day and night until 1916 and therefore also known as the “Caffè senza porte” (Café without doors), for over a century Caffè Pedrocchi has been a center of social and intellectual life in Padua..

On February 8, 1848, the wounding of a university student inside the café sparked the Italian Risorgimento uprisings; the episode is still remembered today in the official university anthem.

Visitors can enjoy coffee, light meals, and a historic atmosphere in the heart of the city.

University of Padua — Anatomical Theatre & Galileo’s Chair

Founded in 1222, the University of Padua is one of Europe’s oldest universities. Its historic Anatomical Theatre, built in 1595, was the first permanent space for anatomical teaching. The complex also includes the Galileo Chair, where Galileo taught mathematics.
Guided tours are available.

La Specola — Astronomical Observatory Museum

A historic tower converted to an astronomical observatory in the 18th century, La Specola now functions as a museum of astronomy with original instruments documenting Padua’s scientific tradition.