Église Saint-Antoine de Padoue
A magnificent basilica blending Romanesque, Gothic, and Byzantine styles, housing Renaissance art and relics. A spiritual and architectural marvel.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Église Saint-Antoine de Padoue
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent basilica blending Romanesque, Gothic, and Byzantine styles, housing Renaissance art and relics. A spiritual and architectural marvel.
"One of the most stunning churches I have visited, a must-see for its majesty and holy atmosphere."
🧥 Respectful Attire
Cover shoulders & knees. Rentals available for a small fee if needed. :dress:
📸 No Photos Inside
Photography is restricted inside. Enjoy the art with your eyes! :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Donatello's Bronze Altar
Main Altar
A masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture, this intricate bronze altar is a breathtaking sight.

Chapel of Saint Anthony
Within the Basilica
Dedicated to the beloved saint, this chapel features stunning marble reliefs depicting his life.

Reliquary Chapel
Within the Basilica
Home to an extraordinary collection of relics, this chapel offers a profound spiritual experience.

Cloisters
Surrounding the Basilica
Step back in time in these quiet, historic cloisters, offering a peaceful escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code & Respect
Photography Restrictions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Respectful Attire
Cover shoulders & knees. Rentals available for a small fee if needed. :dress:
📸 No Photos Inside
Photography is restricted inside. Enjoy the art with your eyes! :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the Cloisters
Don't miss the serene cloisters for a peaceful historical walk. :walking:
💰 Toilet Fee
Be prepared for a small charge to use the restrooms. :toilet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Respectful Attire
Cover shoulders & knees. Rentals available for a small fee if needed. :dress:
📸 No Photos Inside
Photography is restricted inside. Enjoy the art with your eyes! :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the Cloisters
Don't miss the serene cloisters for a peaceful historical walk. :walking:
💰 Toilet Fee
Be prepared for a small charge to use the restrooms. :toilet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Basilica of Saint Anthony as a stunning and majestic church, often calling it a 'must-see' for its breathtaking architecture and powerful atmosphere. Many are impressed by the blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Byzantine styles, as well as the significant artworks within, like Donatello's altar. The cloisters are also highlighted as a peaceful escape. Some minor drawbacks include a fee for restrooms and photography restrictions inside.
"The exterior is a melange of architectural styles, fairly plain brickwork but with Byzantine minarets and domes reminiscent of the Hagia Sophia of Istanbul. Internally it is pure Gothic with wonderful sculptures and artwork.
The scale is vast and the ceilings almost disappear into the distance, many covered by netting to catch falling debris.
This is a site of pilgrimage for followers of Saint Anthony and there was a line to enter the chapels containing his relics.
The lighting is very dim so the architecture is not shown to best advantage but nevertheless the effect is inspiring."
herm dig
"Amazing inside and outside.
Went for a walk by night and it was very never with the moonlight.
The interior is superb, lots of different Chappelle with amazing art and, of course the saint Anthony spaces for pilgrims.
Please, respect the place, there's people praying"
R M L
"One of the most magnificent basilicas you will ever see. Its fame rests not only on its architectural beauty but also on the spiritual aura that resides within the basilica. It houses the mortal remains of St Antony of Padua. It also has the relics of more than a dozen other saints including St Pope John Paul II. Catholics from all over the world flock to the Basilica throughout the year. One thing that catches our eyes is the altar that has all the relics."
Dr P J George
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Basilica is easily accessible by public transport within Padua. Local buses frequently stop near the basilica. If arriving from other cities, take a train to Padua's main station, then a short bus or taxi ride.
There are several parking lots and street parking options in the vicinity of the basilica, though they can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Yes, the Basilica is within walking distance from the historic center of Padua, making it a pleasant stroll through the charming streets.
Take a direct train from Venice Santa Lucia or Venezia Mestre to Padua. From Padua station, you can take a local bus or a taxi to the Basilica.
While not directly part of the Basilica, many local tour operators in Padua offer guided tours that include a visit to the Basilica of Saint Anthony as part of a city tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to the Basilica is free. However, there might be a small fee for specific chapels or the museum areas.
The Basilica is typically open daily from early morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary seasonally or for special events.
Entry to the Reliquary Chapel may have a small fee or be included in a combined ticket for certain areas. It's best to inquire on-site or check their official information.
Yes, you can visit the Basilica during mass, but it's expected to be quiet and respectful. Some areas might be restricted during services.
For larger groups, it's recommended to contact the Basilica administration in advance to arrange your visit and ensure a smooth experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors are expected to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees. If your attire is too revealing, coverings are available for a small fee.
Photography is generally restricted inside the Basilica to preserve the artworks and maintain a solemn atmosphere.
Yes, restrooms are available, but there is a small charge for their use.
Don't miss Donatello's bronze altar, the Chapel of Saint Anthony with its marble reliefs, and the Reliquary Chapel. The cloisters are also highly recommended.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the Basilica's art, architecture, and atmosphere. If you plan to explore the cloisters thoroughly, add more time.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within the Basilica itself. However, numerous cafes, trattorias, and restaurants are located in the immediate vicinity.
You'll find traditional Venetian and Paduan cuisine, including pasta dishes, seafood, and local specialties. Many places offer quick bites like panini and gelato.
Yes, look for smaller trattorias or pizzerias away from the main tourist paths for more affordable and authentic meals.
It's generally not permitted to consume food or drinks inside religious sites like the Basilica to maintain their sanctity.
Numerous cafes surround the Basilica, offering espresso, cappuccinos, and pastries. Many are perfect for a short break.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is restricted inside the Basilica. Visitors are asked to refrain from taking pictures to maintain the solemnity and protect the artworks.
The Piazza del Santo offers excellent vantage points for capturing the Basilica's impressive facade and domes. The surrounding streets also provide charming perspectives.
Photography is generally allowed in the cloisters, offering a more relaxed environment for capturing the historical architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
Photography is strictly forbidden in all interior areas of the Basilica, including chapels and the Reliquary Chapel.
Since interior photography is restricted, a standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for exterior shots. Consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the grand scale of the facade.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that photography is restricted inside, so encourage kids to observe and remember. The cloisters offer a bit more space to move around and can be a good spot for a brief break. Be prepared for the small fee for restrooms.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Be mindful of the small charges for restrooms and potential coverings if your attire isn't suitable. Dining options nearby range from affordable pizzerias to more upscale restaurants, so you can choose based on your budget. Exploring the surrounding streets and piazzas is also a free and enjoyable activity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel
Inside, the basilica is a treasure trove of art. Donatello's bronze altar is a paramount example of Renaissance sculpture, renowned for its dynamic figures and emotional depth. The Chapel of Saint Anthony is adorned with intricate marble reliefs that narrate the saint's life, while the Reliquary Chapel houses an impressive collection of sacred artifacts, drawing pilgrims from across the globe.
Beyond the main sanctuary, the cloisters surrounding the basilica offer a tranquil retreat. These spaces are steeped in history and provide a quieter, more contemplative experience. Exploring the cloisters allows visitors to appreciate the basilica's complex layout and its historical context, offering a different perspective on this magnificent edifice.
Pilgrimage and Devotion
The Reliquary Chapel is a focal point for many pilgrims, housing relics associated with Saint Anthony. The sense of devotion is palpable, with many visitors engaging in prayer and reflection. The basilica's role as a center of faith contributes significantly to its profound and moving ambiance.
Pilgrims and visitors from all over the world converge here, creating a unique cultural tapestry. This constant flow of people seeking spiritual solace or historical connection underscores the basilica's enduring significance as a place of deep devotion and cultural importance.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit