Padua’s best guided tours get straight to the heart of this historic university town. Small-group day trips to Verona and Lake Garda stand out for their intimacy and local insights. I especially love the walking tours through the medieval center, where guides bring the city’s scientific and religious heritage to life. Private tours work wonderfully for those wanting to explore at their own pace, while adventurous travelers shouldn’t miss kayaking in Valle Da Pesca – it’s a refreshing break from standard sightseeing. For independent spirits, self-guided options effectively cover the main attractions. Let’s look at our carefully selected tours that showcase the best of Padua.
Good To Know
- Full-day guided tours to Verona and Lake Garda offer a personalized experience with roundtrip transportation, a local guide, and a flexible cancellation policy.
- Private guided tours in Padua focus on in-depth exploration of the city’s history, religion, and science, with flexible options for hotel pickup and stroller accessibility.
- City sightseeing walking tours in Padua provide a personalized experience with a maximum group size of 10 travelers, covering key attractions like Prato della Valle and Pedrocchi Café.
- The Padova Scavenger Hunt app offers an engaging self-guided tour with informative insights and route guidance, suitable for families and children.
- Kayak excursions in Valle da Pesca near Padua offer a 5.0-rated experience with a duration of 2-3 hours, though accessibility may be limited for certain medical conditions.
From Padua, Full Day Guided Tour of Verona and Garda Lake
For visitors to Padua, the full-day guided tour of Verona and Lake Garda offers a captivating opportunity to explore the renowned landmarks and picturesque landscapes of these iconic Italian destinations.
Priced from $187.64 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
Highlights include a walking tour of Verona’s historic city center, a visit to the charming village of Lazise, and a stop along the lake’s scenic shores.
With roundtrip transportation from Padua, a knowledgeable local guide, and complimentary cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a seamless and enjoyable way to discover the beauty of Lake Garda and the nearby city of Verona.
Read our full review: From Padua, Full Day Guided Tour of Verona and Garda Lake Review
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Guided Kayak Excursions for Small Groups in Valle Da Pesca
Embarking on a guided kayak excursion in the serene Valle da Pesca near Padua offers small groups an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the region’s natural beauty.
With a perfect 5.0 rating from 10 travelers, this activity is highly recommended and easily accessible, with a convenient meeting point at Agrivittoria.
Priced from $37.53 per person, the excursion includes kayak equipment rental and lasts approximately 2-3 hours.
While not suitable for those with certain medical conditions or mobility challenges, most travelers can participate in this small-group adventure, which ends back at the meeting point.
Confirmed bookings are received within 48 hours, subject to availability, providing flexibility for travelers.
Read our full review: Guided Kayak Excursions for Small Groups in Valle Da Pesca Review
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Padova Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour
The Padova Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour allows visitors to discover the historic charm of Padua at their own pace.
This self-guided walking tour, accessible through the Explorial App, takes participants on an engaging exploration of the city’s landmarks and hidden gems.
With an overall rating of 4.4/5 from 9 reviews, the tour offers flexibility, interactivity, and a chance to take in Padua’s rich history.
While some users reported minor app issues, restarting typically resolved them.
The tour is highly recommended for history enthusiasts and those seeking a unique and enriching city experience, with many praising its user-friendliness and the joy of uncovering Padua’s treasures.
Read our full review: Padova Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour Review
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Private Tours of Padova With a Professional Guide
Those seeking an immersive and insightful exploration of Padua can embark on private walking tours with a professional guide.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 14 travelers, these tours provide a personalized experience, delving into the city’s rich history, religion, and scientific legacy. Guests can visit the iconic Basilica of St. Anthony, known as “Il Santo,” and discover hidden gems while learning about the Paduan people’s influence.
Offering free cancellation, flexible rescheduling, and the option to start at the meeting point or their hotel, these private tours cater to individual needs. Accessible and stroller-friendly, the tours promise an engaging and informative journey through Padua’s vibrant landscape.
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Padua City Sightseeing Walking Tour of Must-See-Sites With Local Guide
Padua’s Padua City Sightseeing Walking Tour with a local guide offers an immersive exploration of the city’s must-see sites.
This morning or afternoon excursion highlights Padua’s historical significance as a European cultural hub, showcasing its piazzas, monuments, gardens, and literary hotspots.
The tour’s maximum of 10 travelers ensures a personalized experience, led by an informative guide.
Key attractions include the iconic Prato della Valle and the Pedrocchi Café, a hub for Italy’s literary crowd.
With free cancellation and a pay-later option, this walking tour provides an accessible and flexible way to discover Padua’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.
Read our full review: Padua City Sightseeing Walking Tour of Must-See-Sites With Local Guide Review
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Full Day Guided Tour of Verona and Garda Lake
For those seeking an immersive exploration of Verona and the picturesque Garda Lake, this full-day guided tour offers an unparalleled experience.
Led by a local expert, the tour includes walking tours of Verona and the charming village of Lazise, as well as a stop along the lake’s scenic shores.
With a maximum of 8 travelers per group, the tour provides personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
Transportation is included, with pickup available from select locations.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour accommodates strollers and service animals.
Offered at a price starting from $160.84 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this guided tour is a compelling option for discovering the highlights of the region.
Read our full review: Full Day Guided Tour of Verona and Garda Lake Review
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Small Group Guided Tour in Verona
Exploring the enchanting city of Verona through a small group guided tour offers an immersive experience for visitors.
This tour, limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, provides an agency accompaniment and a walking tour of the city’s highlights. Priced at $128.67 per person, it includes return transfers and is covered by insurance.
The tour departs at 9 AM from the specified meeting point, making it easily accessible. While not wheelchair-friendly, the tour accommodates infants and service animals, catering to a diverse range of participants.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on reviews, this small group tour promises an engaging and informative exploration of Verona’s rich cultural heritage.
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Guided Tour of the Cellar & D.O.C.G. Tasting Gemin
Visitors seeking an immersive oenological experience can embark on a guided tour of the Gemin cellar, where they’ll indulge in a tasting of four exceptional D.O.C.G. wines.
The private tour allows guests to explore the cellar and sample the Valdobbiadene Brut, Dry Madre Paola Rive di Guia, Extra Brut Pioneer Riva di Santo Stefano, and Sui Leviti varietals.
Accompanied by a platter of local cold cuts and cheeses, the tasting offers a comprehensive introduction to the region’s renowned sparkling wines.
With wheelchair accessibility and ample parking, the experience caters to a wide range of visitors.
Backed by a 5.0-star rating and free cancellation, this guided tour promises an unforgettable oenological journey in the heart of Valdobbiadene.
Read our full review: Guided Tour of the Cellar & D.O.C.G. Tasting Gemin Review
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Padua’s Historical Centre: A Self-Guided Walking Tour
Padua’s historic center beckons travelers with a captivating self-guided walking tour that unveils the city’s storied past. Priced at $11.99 per person, the tour grants lifetime access, allowing users to explore at their own pace.
Equipped with the VoiceMap app, participants can navigate the route, spanning from the Abbazia di Santa Giustina to the iconic Pedrocchi Café. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals.
With an average rating of 3.5/5 from five reviews, the tour delivers effective GPS guidance and covers both key landmarks and off-the-beaten-path sites. Suggestions for more in-depth information at historical stops could enhance the experience.
Read our full review: Padua’s Historical Centre: A Self-Guided Walking Tour Review
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Padua: 2-Hour Private Guided Walking Tour
For those seeking a more immersive and guided experience of Padua’s rich history and landmarks, the 2-Hour Private Guided Walking Tour offers an excellent option.
Priced at $134.03 per person, the tour provides an expert guide-led journey through the town center, visiting significant sites like the St. Anthony’s Basilica. Guests can expect to gain insights into Padua’s art, history, and architecture as they explore important locations.
With a 4.9/5 rating from 7 reviews, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and it operates rain or shine, barring exceptionally heavy downpours.
Flexible booking and cancellation policies make this guided experience a convenient and reliable choice for discovering Padua.
Read our full review: Padua: 2-Hour Private Guided Walking Tour Review
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Padova Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour
Those seeking a more independent and inquisitive exploration of Padua’s storied landmarks can embark on the Padova Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour.
This engaging experience combines a captivating scavenger hunt with informative insights into the city’s history and attractions. With high ratings and positive traveler reviews, the tour promises an enjoyable and educational journey through Padua’s old town, suitable for families and children.
Participants will receive route guidance via the World City Trail app and can conveniently start and end the activity at the Scrovegni Chapel.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour’s short walking routes make it an accessible option for most visitors.
Read our full review: Padova Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour Review
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Guided Tour of Chioggia, the Little Venice
Chioggia, known fondly as the “little Venice,” beckons visitors to embark on a guided tour that immerses them in the traditional Italian way of life.
Operated by Lovivo Tour Experience, the tour includes a boat ride through Chioggia’s picturesque canals, showcasing the city’s unique charm.
In inclement weather or during the off-season, the boat tour is replaced with an aperitif, ensuring a memorable experience regardless of the conditions.
Travelers are picked up from their accommodation in a minivan and have the option of bringing infants.
With a maximum of 8 participants per tour, this intimate experience is led by a knowledgeable guide and comes with insurance and technical organization, offering a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Guided Tour of Chioggia, the Little Venice Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Tips for First-Time Visitors to Padua?
For first-time visitors to Padua, it’s best to start with the city’s historic center, taking in the Basilica of St. Anthony, the Prato della Valle, and the Palazzo del Bo. Exploring the city’s medieval streets and cozy cafes is also highly recommended.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Padua?
The best time to visit Padua is spring or fall, when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summers can be hot and crowded, while winters may be chilly with fewer sights open. Regardless of when you go, Padua offers plenty to see and do year-round.
How Can I Get Around Padua Without a Car?
Visitors can easily explore Padua without a car by utilizing the city’s extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains. Plus, walking and cycling are great ways to see the historic sights and experience the charm of the city up close.
Are There Any Hidden Gems or Lesser-Known Attractions in Padua?
Padua’s lesser-known attractions include the Prato della Valle, a massive oval-shaped square with 78 statues, and the Basilica of St. Anthony, home to the saint’s relics and renowned for its magnificent architecture. Exploring these hidden gems can be a rewarding experience.
What Safety Precautions Should I Take While Exploring Padua?
When exploring Padua, it’s wise to be vigilant. Stick to well-lit areas, keep valuables secure, and avoid walking alone at night. Being aware of your surroundings and using common sense can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in this historic Italian city.
The Sum Up
Padua offers a wealth of guided tour options to suit every traveler’s interests. From day trips to nearby Verona and Garda Lake, to kayak excursions and self-guided city walks, there’s something for all. Whether you prefer a private tour with a local guide or a budget-friendly self-guided adventure, Padua has the perfect tour to help you make the most of your visit.