Tourist routes around Padua are conducted exclusively on foot. The streets of the historic centre are largely closed off from vehicular traffic. Padua's hiking trails usually begin in one of the city's squares, most commonly Piazza Prato della Valle. As its name suggests, it is an oval in shape and is the largest square in the city. It is home to many historical buildings and monuments. Nearby is the Basilica of Sant Antoni, the largest in the city. It is owned by the Vatican.
Walking routes in Padua mostly pass by various religious buildings - the Basilica of St Giustina, the Cathedral, the Church of Saints Phillip and Iacoma, and the Chapel of Scrovegna decorated with Giotto's frescoes. But it is possible to organise walking itineraries around Padua to other iconic places. For example, to the famous University of Padua, where Galileo Galilei once taught. No tourist denies themselves the pleasure of walking among the ruins of the ancient Roman arena. The monument and tomb of Antenor, who according to legend founded Padua after being rescued from Troy, is iconic.
Any itinerary around Padua passes through Café Pedrocchi, the famous coffee house that was founded as early as 1772 and played an important role in the history of the city and country.
