Prato della Valle
Europe's 2nd largest square, a grand elliptical piazza with a canal and over 70 statues of historical figures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Prato della Valle
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Europe's 2nd largest square, a grand elliptical piazza with a canal and over 70 statues of historical figures.
"It's a beautiful and lively piazza, a huge open space with a unique elliptical canal and ring of statues."
🚶♀️ Stroll & Relax
Take your time to walk around the canal and admire the statues. Find a bench and soak in the atmosphere.
☀️ Avoid Midday Sun
In summer, the sun can be intense. Visit early or late to avoid feeling like a 'cutlet on a frying pan'.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Elliptical Canal & Statues
Central Island
Wander around the water-lined island, admiring over 70 statues of historical figures. It's like an open-air museum!
Isola Memmia
Central Island
The heart of the piazza, this lush green island is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a moment of peace.
Market Days Buzz
Throughout the piazza
Experience the lively atmosphere of local markets, offering everything from food to crafts. Check local listings for dates.
Illuminated Evenings
The entire piazza
See the piazza transform after dark with beautiful lighting, creating a magical and romantic setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Grandeur (and the Sun!)
Timing is Key for Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll & Relax
Take your time to walk around the canal and admire the statues. Find a bench and soak in the atmosphere.
☀️ Avoid Midday Sun
In summer, the sun can be intense. Visit early or late to avoid feeling like a 'cutlet on a frying pan'.
📅 Check for Events
Look out for street food festivals or local markets for a more dynamic experience.
📸 Golden Hour Views
The light during sunrise and sunset is stunning for photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll & Relax
Take your time to walk around the canal and admire the statues. Find a bench and soak in the atmosphere.
☀️ Avoid Midday Sun
In summer, the sun can be intense. Visit early or late to avoid feeling like a 'cutlet on a frying pan'.
📅 Check for Events
Look out for street food festivals or local markets for a more dynamic experience.
📸 Golden Hour Views
The light during sunrise and sunset is stunning for photos.
💧 Canal Views
The water channel adds a unique charm. Be mindful of potential litter after busy events.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Prato della Valle is widely praised for its immense size, unique elliptical design, and the impressive collection of historical statues lining its canal. Visitors enjoy the lively atmosphere during markets and festivals, as well as the beautiful illuminated views at night. However, some find it can be overwhelmingly hot in summer and note that the piazza can sometimes appear a bit dirty, especially after events.
"Prato della Valle is a beautiful and lively piazza, it’s a huge open space. The elliptical canal with its ring of statues is very unique — walking around feels like being in an open-air museum. On market days the square is buzzing with stalls, it’s a also beautiful place to stroll, sit under the trees, or just take in the atmosphere.
I loved the night atmosphere, stunning lights and beautiful views. It’s also a great spot to start or end a walk through Padua, since it connects easily to the Basilica of St. Anthony and the historic center."
Thilo Boeck
"Prato della Valle is a huge square where in summer you can feel like a cutlet on a Teflon frying pan. The place is certainly impressive in size and number of statues, but the sun is so generous here that the only shadow is your own. Yes, it is beautiful, spacious, but it is better to come either at dawn or after sunset, otherwise the walk turns into an express version of an open-air sauna."
Vadim Sorokin
"This is a lovely piazza to visit with many sculptures surrounding the water and grass area, however there isn't much else to do unless you visit on a market day. We caught the stall holders clearing away on the Saturday evening, so there was a lot of plastic mess around the piazza but it was all clean by the Sunday.
You can walk the length of Via Roma towards the Prato delta Valle and also visit the Botanic Gardens and Basilica.
If approaching from Via Roma, there is a supermarket on the opposite side of the piazza."
Alison Christie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Prato della Valle is easily accessible by public transport in Padova. Many buses stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from the historic center. If coming from Venice, a train to Padova is efficient, and the piazza is a short bus ride or a longer walk from the station. +1
Parking can be challenging in the city center. There are paid parking garages available, but it's often easier to use public transport or walk if you're already in the city.
Yes, it's a walk of about 20-30 minutes from Padova train station to Prato della Valle. It's a good way to see more of the city.
Prato della Valle is a great starting point. You can easily walk to the Basilica of Saint Anthony and explore the historic center from here.
Absolutely! The Basilica of Saint Anthony is a short walk away, as is the historic center with its charming squares and the Scrovegni Chapel. The Botanical Garden is also nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Prato della Valle is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time.
As an open public space, Prato della Valle does not have specific opening hours and can be visited 24/7. However, the atmosphere is best enjoyed during daylight or when illuminated at night.
There are no entrance fees for the statues or the canal surrounding the Isola Memmia. They are all part of the public piazza.
To avoid the largest crowds, aim for early mornings or late evenings, especially during weekdays. Weekends and event days can be very busy.
Yes, Prato della Valle frequently hosts events, including international street food festivals and local markets. It's worth checking local event listings before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire piazza offers great photo opportunities. Capture the statues lining the canal, the central island, and the grand scale of the square. The golden hour around sunrise and sunset provides beautiful light.
Yes, Prato della Valle is beautifully illuminated at night, offering a different, magical perspective for photography.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography in the public square. However, always be mindful of any ongoing events or protests.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the square. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details on the statues. A tripod is recommended for night photography.
Drone usage in public spaces can be restricted. It's advisable to check local regulations regarding drone operation in Padova before attempting to fly one.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars surrounding Prato della Valle, offering a variety of Italian and international cuisine.
Prato della Valle often hosts street food festivals, offering a wide array of international and local delicacies. Keep an eye on event schedules.
Yes, there is a supermarket located on the opposite side of the piazza if you're approaching from Via Roma.
The central island and the grassy areas around the canal are perfect for a picnic. You can also find vendors offering picnic options.
Padova offers traditional Venetian cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients. Expect delicious pasta dishes, seafood, and local wines.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
You can stroll around the canal, admire the statues, relax on the grass, or enjoy the atmosphere, especially during markets or events. It's also a great starting point for exploring Padova.
You can spend anywhere from an hour to half a day, depending on your interest. An hour is enough for a quick walk-around, while more time is needed to truly appreciate it and explore surrounding areas.
Yes, children can enjoy the open space for running around. The statues and the canal can be interesting for them, but supervision is advised near the water.
While the statues represent important figures from Padova's history, explicit explanations or plaques are not always readily available within the piazza itself. Researching beforehand can enhance the experience.
It's one of Europe's largest squares and a major landmark of Padova, historically a site for public gatherings and now a beloved recreational space.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers
The unique elliptical design, the canal, and the numerous statues provide endless composition opportunities. Don't miss the chance to capture the piazza illuminated at night for a different, enchanting perspective. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grandeur of Prato della Valle
+1 Its unique elliptical shape is defined by a central island, known as Isola Memmia, which is surrounded by a picturesque canal. This design, largely dating back to the late 18th century, creates a sense of grandeur and provides a distinct visual appeal that captivates visitors. The sheer scale of the piazza makes it a focal point for the city, hosting events and serving as a beloved gathering place. A Gallery of Statues
Experiencing Prato della Valle: Beyond the Visual
The piazza is a popular spot for locals to relax, exercise, or simply enjoy the outdoors. However, be prepared for the summer heat, as the expansive, open nature of the piazza can make it feel very hot during midday. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit