Things to do in Padova

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Photo provided by Expedia
Photo provided by Expedia
Photo provided by Expedia
Padova showing food
Photo provided by Expedia

Padova Attractions

It's little wonder so many travelers return to Padova again and again. This captivating city is filled with fun things to do. Whether you enjoy exploring the local sights or trying more thrilling experiences, it's tough to be bored here.

Discover what makes Padova tick with some of the most popular tours & day trips. Browse through our top {76 fun activities in Padova fun activities in Padova}, and book with ease knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.


  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save % or more on select activities, hotels, cars and vacation rentals.

Padova must see attractions

1. Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua

Experience the grandeur of the Basilica di Sant’Antonio di Padova, an internationally revered pilgrimage site dating back to the 13th century. Byzantine-style domes crown this architecturally rich building. Inside you’ll find a series of artworks and the golden reliquary of St. Anthony. The basilica is not Padua’s main cathedral, but “Il Santo” has worldwide acclaim as being one of the Holy See’s eight international shrines.
Learn more
Basilica di Sant\'Antonio da Padova featuring a church or cathedral, heritage architecture and night scenes

2. University of Padova

Founded in 1222, the University of Padova has long been developing the young minds of Italy. Much of the campus lies within the 16th-century Palazzo Bo in the heart of the city. Join a guided tour of the palace for an introduction to the historic institution where Galileo was a tutor.
Learn more
Palazzo del Bò featuring interior views and heritage elements

3. Scrovegni Chapel

Scrovegni Chapel is known all over the world for its stunning interior covered in elaborate frescoes created by the master painter Giotto. Be amazed by the scale and detail of these gorgeous artworks. Afterward, explore the pretty park in which the chapel stands. The grounds are perfect for a walk and are also home to the ruins of a Roman arena.
Learn more
Scrovegni Chapel showing a church or cathedral, interior views and heritage elements

4. Prato della Valle

The Prato della Valle is one of the most distinctive public spaces in all of Europe, notable not only for its vast size but also for the large number of statues that occupy it. With 78 stone figures dotted around the square and many elegant historic buildings lining the streets, this is a wonderful place to get an insight into Padova’s long history as a cultural and architectural hub. Come here on a sunny afternoon to watch locals strolling around the square and relaxing on the grassy island in the middle. Allow time to stop at one of the cafés surrounding the Prato della Valle and to study the beautiful and fascinating marble statues.
Learn more
Prato della Valle featuring a statue or sculpture, night scenes and a river or creek

5. Pedrocchi Cafe

Padova is home to so many historic treasures that it is hard to pick out the most significant, but the ornate Pedrocchi Café has to be one of them. This opulent café has been open for many generations. Come here to sip its signature mint-flavored coffee in the sumptuous rooms where George Sand, Stendhal and many others once did the very same. Head upstairs to experience culture in the Risorgimento Museum.
Learn more
Pedrocchi Cafe featuring night scenes, heritage architecture and a city

Black Friday Sale

Limited-time deals: Save up to 50% on select hotels.

What to do in Padova

Free Things to Do in Padova

There's no need to run your credit card hot in Padova. The following won't cost a penny.

Museo Antoniano - Round up the entire family and set out on an adventure through history together.

Palazzo del Monte di Pieta - Take a stroll around this historic place and learn a few secrets from long ago.

Piazza dei Signori - Sit for a while in this popular place and experience life as a local.

Scoletta del Santo - Allow some time to visit this site of local importance.

Padua Cathedral - Get in touch with your spiritual side or just take in the tranquil atmosphere at this site of worship.

Giardini dell'Arena - If you enjoy pottering around the garden, this place will satisfy your inner green thumb.

Things to Do in Padova with Kids

There are lots of memorable experiences in Padova that the entire gang will love. These are some of the top family friendly experiences around.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Padova? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Padova

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Padova

City Center Padova featuring heritage architecture and a garden

City Center Padova

Unique features of City Center Padova include the historic sites and cafes. Make a stop by Piazza del Duomo or Piazza dei Signori while you're exploring the area.

City Center Padova
Historic Centre which includes signage and shopping

Historic Centre

4.5/5(53 area reviews)

Delve into Padova’s compact historic heart and find a remarkable collection of architectural and cultural landmarks, connected by twisting cobbled streets and broad piazzas.

Historic Centre
Default Image

Arcella

5/5(1 area review)

Though Arcella might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Palazzo di Giustizia di Padova and Scrovegni Chapel.

Arcella
Default Image

Guizza

Guizza might not have many top sights, but Museo Naturalistico di Villa Beatrice and Prato della Valle are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Guizza

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Padova

Frequently asked questions

Is Padova worth visiting?
Renowned for its bars and pubs and walking trails, finding fun things to do in Padova is easy. Remember to add Catajo Castle to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Padova?
Once you've visited popular attractions like Catajo Castle and La Specola Observatory, spend the rest of your day exploring Padova's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Padova?
Don't leave without visiting Catajo Castle, rated the top tourist attraction in Padova.
Is three days enough to stay in Padova?
You can easily enjoy top attractions like Basilica Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, La Specola Observatory and MUSME with a three-day getaway in Padova. On average, most travelers plan two days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so linger longer and venture to Venice.
Is Padova a walkable city?
Some top sights in Padova, including Basilica Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta and La Specola Observatory, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Only 0.2 miles from central Padova is Historic Centre and City Center Padova is 0.1 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Padova with kids?
What to do in Padova for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Padova, with experiences for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Azienda Vitivinicola Vigna Roda or Loggia della Gran Guardia.
Are there free things to do in Padova?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around hip neighborhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Padova. If you need inspiration, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Basilica Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta is a great spot for anyone wishing to save on their travel adventures.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia