
Piazza Eremitani Padua
A historic heart of Padua, featuring the Eremitani Church and the world-famous Scrovegni Chapel, buzzing with local life.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Piazza Eremitani Padua
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic heart of Padua, featuring the Eremitani Church and the world-famous Scrovegni Chapel, buzzing with local life.
"Anyone who goes to Padua must absolutely visit this splendid Church and the adjacent Scrovegni Chapel."

Book Scrovegni Chapel Early
:ticket: Essential for timed entry! Don't miss out on Giotto's masterpieces.
Enjoy a Coffee Break
:coffee: Grab a cappuccino in the piazza and soak in the atmosphere.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scrovegni Chapel
Adjacent to Piazza Eremitani
Marvel at Giotto's breathtaking frescoes, a masterpiece of Western art. Book tickets well in advance!

Musei Civici agli Eremitani
Piazza Eremitani
Explore a rich collection of art and archaeology, including Roman artifacts and Venetian paintings.

Church of the Eremitani
Piazza Eremitani
Admire the Romanesque architecture and historical significance of this beautiful church.

Hercules Statue
Hidden courtyard in Piazza Eremitani
Discover the impressive 9-meter tall Renaissance statue of Hercules, a hidden gem.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Scrovegni Chapel Early
:ticket: Essential for timed entry! Don't miss out on Giotto's masterpieces.
Enjoy a Coffee Break
:coffee: Grab a cappuccino in the piazza and soak in the atmosphere.
Explore Hidden Gems
:mag: Seek out the giant Hercules statue tucked away in a courtyard.
Consider the Museums
:art: The Civic Museums offer a great complement to the chapel.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Scrovegni Chapel Early
:ticket: Essential for timed entry! Don't miss out on Giotto's masterpieces.
Enjoy a Coffee Break
:coffee: Grab a cappuccino in the piazza and soak in the atmosphere.
Explore Hidden Gems
:mag: Seek out the giant Hercules statue tucked away in a courtyard.
Consider the Museums
:art: The Civic Museums offer a great complement to the chapel.
Watch for Bins
:eyes: Some visitors note rubbish bins can detract from the square's beauty.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Piazza Eremitani is lauded for its central location and the presence of two major attractions: the magnificent Church of the Eremitani and the world-renowned Scrovegni Chapel. Visitors appreciate the pedestrianized nature of the square and its role as a lively meeting point, especially during festive periods. However, some find the number of rubbish bins detracts from the otherwise beautiful urban space.
"I visited this splendid Church and I was speechless. What splendor, what a marvel. Anyone who goes to Padua must absolutely visit. It is located right next to the Scrovegni Chapel. It has an opening and closing time. It is completely free."
Marina Modonutto
"Beautiful square, entirely pedestrianized for a few years. Surrounded by restored buildings and next to the magnificent Basilica of the same name...
Update 10 May 2022: the urban space is beautiful and representative of old Padua with two precious monuments on the side, the magnificent Church of the Eremitani and the Roman arena with the famous Scrovegni Chapel; unfortunately, alas, there are several rubbish bins on two sides of the square which, provided they are masked by iron structures and well maintained, irremediably devalue the view. It is sad to hear negative comments about it from several foreign tourists. I think it is better to remove all the bins, like in the central squares of Padua..."
Antonio Pistore
"For the Christmas period, two children's carousels and a series of stalls have been installed in the square. You can buy super warm socks, eat a pancake and drink mulled wine"
Ilona Shevchuk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Piazza Eremitani is centrally located in Padua, making it easily accessible on foot from most parts of the historic center. If arriving by train, it's about a 15-20 minute walk from the Padua train station. Buses also serve the area, with stops near the piazza.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of Piazza Eremitani can be challenging due to its central location. It's best to use public parking garages like the one at the train station or those closer to the historic center and walk.
Yes, several bus lines stop near Piazza Eremitani, making it convenient to reach via Padua's public transport system. Check local bus routes for the most direct options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Piazza Eremitani is a public square and is free to enter and explore. However, attractions within or adjacent to the piazza, like the Scrovegni Chapel and the Civic Museums, require separate tickets.
It is highly recommended to book Scrovegni Chapel tickets online in advance, as entry is timed and capacity is limited. You can purchase them through the official website or authorized ticket vendors.
The Church of the Eremitani is generally open to visitors, but hours can vary. It's advisable to check the official Padua tourism website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date opening times.
Yes, there is an admission fee for the Musei Civici Eremitani. Ticket prices and any potential discounts can be found on their official website or at the museum's ticket office.
The Hercules statue is located in a courtyard, and access to view it may depend on the courtyard's accessibility. It's often visible from public areas or courtyards associated with nearby buildings.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in Piazza Eremitani itself. However, strict rules apply inside the Scrovegni Chapel, where photography is usually prohibited to protect the frescoes.
Capture the grandeur of the Eremitani Church and the Scrovegni Chapel from various angles in the piazza. The Hercules statue in its courtyard also makes for a unique shot.
Photography policies can vary within museums. Check the signage at the Musei Civici Eremitani or ask staff about their specific rules regarding cameras and flash usage.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, Piazza Eremitani and its surrounding streets offer several cafes and restaurants. You can enjoy a coffee, a light snack, or a full meal with local specialties.
The 'Padovano coffee' is a local specialty, often referring to a coffee drink with a unique preparation or local twist. It's worth asking for recommendations at cafes in the area.
During the Christmas period, you can often find stalls in Piazza Eremitani selling mulled wine and pancakes, adding to the festive atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the Christmas season, the children's carousels in the piazza are a definite hit. For a fun discovery, encourage kids to find the impressive Hercules statue hidden in a courtyard. Consider a treat from one of the local cafes to make the outing even more enjoyable. Remember to book Scrovegni Chapel tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
🏛️ Art & History Enthusiasts
Don't overlook the Church of the Eremitani itself for its architectural significance and historical context. The presence of the imposing Hercules statue adds another layer of Renaissance artistry to explore. Engaging with these sites provides a comprehensive understanding of Padua's cultural heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistic Marvel of the Scrovegni Chapel
Due to its immense artistic value and popularity, booking tickets for the Scrovegni Chapel well in advance is crucial. Entry is managed in timed slots to control visitor numbers and ensure the preservation of the frescoes. Many visitors describe the experience as deeply moving and awe-inspiring, a true highlight of any trip to Padua.
Adjacent to the chapel are the Musei Civici Eremitani, which house a significant collection of art and archaeological finds. This museum provides further context to the region's history and artistic heritage, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in a deeper dive into Padua's cultural treasures.
Piazza Eremitani: A Historic Heart
The square has undergone pedestrianization, creating a more pleasant and accessible space for visitors and locals alike. It serves as a popular meeting point and a venue for various events, especially during festive seasons like Christmas, when it hosts markets and carousels. The presence of cafes and shops surrounding the piazza further enhances its lively atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to relax and people-watch.
While the piazza is generally beautiful, some visitors have noted that the placement and maintenance of rubbish bins can detract from the overall aesthetic. However, this minor point does little to diminish the square's charm and its importance as a gateway to Padua's most celebrated artistic and historical sites.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit