The Cappella degli Scrovegni in Padua, Italy, is home to Giotto’s famous fresco cycle, a masterpiece in early Renaissance art. This guide helps first-time visitors with ticket prices, parking, access, how to get there, best time to visit and what else you can combine in the area.
History and overview of the Cappella degli Scrovegni
The Cappella degli Scrovegni was consecrated in 1305; it was commissioned by Enrico Scrovegni and richly decorated by Giotto with scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary and Christ. The chapel’s frescoes are considered among the most important works of Western art, both for their emotional expressiveness and for innovations in narrative and spatial realism.
In layman’s terms, the frescoes look far more realistic than the art that came before them. They represent a turning point in art history.
The chapel forms part of the Musei Civici di Padova circuit, which includes the Museo Eremitani and Palazzo Zuckermann. While the chapel itself is compact, its impact is magnified by being paired with these museums and by the setting in the Eremitani complex, which adds context about Padua’s history, archaeology and art.
Visitors enter through the Museo Eremitani; first there is an anteroom where climate control is applied to preserve the frescoes. Entry is timed, group size is restricted, and everyone must follow rules to protect this fragile artwork. Evening visits (“Giotto sotto le stelle”) are offered at certain times of year, giving a different atmosphere under subtle lighting after dark.
Why book the Padua Small-Group Tour with Scrovegni Chapel Entrance?
- 🏛 Includes skip-the-line entry to the Scrovegni Chapel, home to Giotto’s famous frescoes
- 👣 Guided walking tour through Padua’s historic centre—discover hidden alleys, piazzas, and architectural gems
- 📜 Learn about the history, art, and symbolism behind Giotto’s cycle and the chapel’s restoration
- 👥 Small-group format ensures a more personal experience with detailed commentary
- ✅ Mobile ticket accepted & free cancellation up to 24 hours ahead
How to get to the Cappella degli Scrovegni and parking
The chapel is located at Piazza Eremitani 8, 35121 Padova (Padua), Italy. It is about a 10-15 minute walk from Padua railway station. If you prefer public transport, several buses and the tram service stop close by (“Eremitani” stop) that reduce walking time.
If arriving by car, there is no private parking at the chapel itself. One of the nearest public parking options is the “Park Porte Contarine” which serves the Eremitani / Cappella degli Scrovegni area. It is covered, monitored, and operates 24 hours. The hourly rate from 07:00 to 24:00 is €3.50 or fraction thereof. Between 00:01 and 06:59 the rate drops to €1.00 per hour or fraction.
Opening hours and ticket prices at the Cappella degli Scrovegni
The Cappella degli Scrovegni is open daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm. It is closed on 1 May, 25 and 26 December, and 1 January. Evening visits are available from about 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm in certain periods of the year under the “Giotto sotto le stelle” programme.
Exact ticket prices (including €1 reservation fee for the chapel, valid from 1 July 2023):
- Full price (Musei Civici Eremitani + Cappella degli Scrovegni): €16.00
- Only Museums (Eremitani + Zuckermann) without chapel: €11.00
- Reduced (various categories such as over-65 EU, groups, etc.) for Museums + Chapel: €11.00
- Residents (Padua / Province) fee: €7.00 including chapel
- School reduced ticket: €6.00
- Free entrance for children under 6, disabled persons and companions, ICOM members: €0.00 (still with €1 reservation fee for chapel)
Accessibility and visitor rules
Advance booking is mandatory through the official site or via the call centre (+39 049 2010020). Tickets often sell out early. Entry is time-slot based. Late arrivals are not admitted; you should arrive several minutes before the time printed on your ticket to pass through the waiting / acclimatisation room.
Photography without flash is generally allowed; however, no flash, no large bags or bulky luggage, no food or drink, and mobile phones should be in silent mode. The chapel is not wheelchair accessible. Parts of the route from Museo Eremitani to the chapel may involve steps or uneven ground.
Best times to visit the Cappella degli Scrovegni and how long to allow
The chapel is less crowded in the mornings just after opening and on weekdays outside holiday periods. Evening tours offer fewer visitors but require booking well in advance and are only available in certain months. Avoid mid-day peak times and weekends when large tour groups tend to arrive.
You should allow about 30 to 45 minutes for the full experience: this includes waiting time, the short introductory room, viewing the frescoes, and time to exit. If you are combining with Museo Eremitani and Palazzo Zuckermann, plan for 1.5 to 2 hours in total.
Nearby attractions to combine with the Cappella degli Scrovegni
Since you are already in central Padua, you can combine the chapel with several other attractions. The Museo Eremitani, which shares the entrance, has archaeology and medieval art collections. The Palazzo Zuckermann is also included in many ticket options and has decorative arts and more modern artworks. You could also visit the nearby Prato della Valle, a large square with gardens and sculpted ring, or the Padua Botanical Garden.
Walking around Padua’s historic centre (the Prato della Valle, the Basilica of Saint Anthony) and stopping in cafés in the streets around Eremitani is a perfectly agreeable way to spend a day too.
Other top Padua experiences include wine-tasting sessions, small group street food tours and pizza-cooking classes.
Tips for a smoother visit to the Cappella degli Scrovegni
- Book your ticket online well in advance, especially in summer or weekends.
- Arrive about 5 to 10 minutes before your time slot to pass through the climate-controlled anteroom.
- Check the official website for “Giotto sotto le stelle” evening availability if you prefer a quieter, atmospheric visit.
- Carry a small amount of cash or card — reservation fee is separate for the chapel.
Frequently asked questions about Cappella degli Scrovegni
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need to reserve tickets in advance? | Yes. Booking is obligatory, either online or via the call centre. Same-day tickets may be available but often are sold out. Late arrivals are not admitted. |
| What are the exact ticket prices? | Full ticket including chapel and Eremitani Museum is €16.00. There are reduced tickets (€11.00, €9.00, etc.) and a free entry category for young children, disabled persons and ICOM members. All chapel tickets carry a €1 reservation fee. |
| Is there parking nearby? | Yes. Public parking such as the Park Porte Contarine is very close. Rate is €3.50 per hour (07:00-24:00), and €1.00 per hour between 24:01-06:59. Parking is limited during peak hours. |
| How accessible is the chapel for mobility-impaired visitors? | The chapel itself is not wheelchair friendly. There are steps and uneven flooring in parts of the route. Visitors should check ahead if mobility is an issue. |
| How long should I allow for the visit? | Allow 30-45 minutes for chapel including introductory phases. If combining with Musei Eremitani and Zuckermann, allow 1.5-2 hours. |
| What are the opening hours? | The chapel is open daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm. Evening visits are offered seasonally from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm under “Giotto sotto le stelle.” Closed on May 1, December 25-26, and January 1. |
Disclosure: This guide includes affiliate links. Book through them and I earn a small commission.
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