Peripheral arterial disease of the lower limbs (PAD) is a widespread disease whose diagnosis and treatment are still inadequate, despite several available current national and international recommendations. Screening for PAD is recommended in patients presenting with lower limb symptoms (claudication) and in those at risk. For all patients with PAD, initial management measures include treatment of cardiovascular risk factors, lifestyle modification, exercise training and antithrombotic therapy, at least for any symptomatic PAD. Revascularization is discussed on a case-by-case basis, depending on the stage of the disease, in a multidisciplinary setting. A diagnostic algorithm for PAD is presented, together with the basic principles of comprehensive disease management.