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Best known for its Shakespeare associations, Verona attracts a multinational gaggle of tourists to its pretty piazzas and knot of lanes, most in search of Romeo, Juliet and all that. But beyond the heart-shaped kitsch and Renaissance romance, Verona is a bustling centre, its heart dominated by a mammoth, remarkably well-preserved 1st-century amphitheatre, the venue for the city's annual summer opera festival. Add to that countless churches, a couple of architecturally fascinating bridges over the Adige, regional wine and food from the Veneto hinterland and some impressive art, and Verona shapes up as one of northern Italy's most attractive cities. And all this just a short hop from the shores of stunning Lake Garda.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Roman Arena

Built of pink-tinged marble in the 1st century AD, Verona's Roman amphitheatre survived a 12th-century earthquake to become the city’s legendary open-air…

Galleria d'Arte Moderna Achille Forti

In the shadow of the Torre dei Lamberti, the Romanesque Palazzo della Ragione is home to Verona's jewel-box Gallery of Modern Art. Reached via the Gothic…

Giardino Giusti

Across the river from the historic centre, these sculpted gardens are considered a masterpiece of Renaissance landscaping, and are named after the noble…

Museo di Castelvecchio

Bristling with fishtail battlements along the river Adige, Castelvecchio was built in the 1350s by Cangrande II. Severely damaged by Napoleon and WWII…

Torre dei Lamberti

One of Verona's most popular attractions, this 84m-high watchtower provides panoramic views of Verona and nearby mountains. Begun in the 12th century and…

Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore

A masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, the striped brick-and-stone basilica was built in honour of the city’s patron saint. Enter through the flower…

Casa di Giulietta

Juliet's house is a spectacle, but not for the reasons you might imagine – entering the courtyard off Via Cappello, you are greeted by a young…

Verona’s 12th-century duomo is a striking Romanesque creation, with bug-eyed statues of Charlemagne’s paladins Roland and Oliver, crafted by medieval…

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Latest stories from Verona

Jan 21, 2020 • 2 min read

It might not end happily, but Shakespeare’s "Romeo & Juliet" is one of the most iconic romances of all time. Now one couple will get to channel the star…

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31 Absolute Best Things to do in Verona, Italy: Complete Verona Travel Guide

• December 6, 2023
• by Jenoa Matthes

Are you looking for the best things to do in Verona?

Verona is a city full of history and romance. While it is famed for being the place where Romeo and Juliet met, there is so much more to this beautiful Italian city.

We fell in love with Verona so much on our first trip that we decided to stay for a month the next time we went there! During our 4-weeks in Verona, we explored not only the city’s highlights but also discovered some of the best hidden gems.

With all of this time spent exploring the city, we feel like this is the most comprehensive Verona travel guide that you will find.

Once you’ve read our list of the best things to do in Verona, you’ll find an easy-to-follow map that you can download right to your phone.

Additionally, you’ll find a guide to the best restaurants in Verona, a list of our top hotel picks, and other practical information to help you plan your trip.

Ready to explore Verona? Let’s dive in.

31 Best Things to do in Verona, Italy

1. verona arena (arena di verona).

The Verona Arena is an amazing example of the Roman influence that has been left on the city. This arena was built in the time of the emperor Tiberius in 30 AD. Remarkably, the arena survived the centuries so well that it is still used for performances to this day.

Built with pink and white limestone and originally made to hold up to 30,000 people, this is considered to be one of the most well preserved Roman arenas in the world.

If you go for a visit during the day, you can walk around the seating areas and take in the vastness of the space where gladiators once fought. 

We recommend walking all the way to the top floor of the Verona Arena for spectacular views overlooking the Piazza Bra and of this ancient structure.

Summer opera performances: During the summer, from June to September, the Verona Arena hosts the annual Verona Opera Festival. Every week, they put on different performances for visitors to choose from. You can get information on the 2024 schedule and the performance schedule on the arena website .

There are a number of ticket levels, and it’s important to note that tickets do sell out. If you are planning on visiting Verona during the summer, we highly recommend booking well in advance.

Tip: Start your day by visiting the Verona arena in order to avoid the lines, especially during the high season (summer). You can sign up for this guided tour with skip the line access, or alternatively, we recommended getting the Verona Card, which includes priority access to the arena.

Hours : Tuesday – Sunday from 9:00am – 7:00pm Verona Arena ticket price : €10 Included in the Verona Card? Yes

2. Piazza Bra

Piazza Bra, just outside of the Verona Arena, is the largest square in Verona and is one of the largest across Italy too. As such, this is the center of life in Verona and is consistently abuzz with people and events. 

Around the edges of the square you can find loads of cafes and restaurants. Setting up at one for a casual drink is a great way to enjoy a bit of la dolce vita.

As well as the arena, you’ll also find other important buildings here such as the Verona city hall and the Gran Guardia Palace.

At the center of the Piazza Bra, you’ll find the Giardini Vittorio Emanuele II. Shaded with trees and covered in grass, this is a wonderful place to relax for a bit, especially during the hotter months. We spent many afternoons sitting by the fountain and people watching.

3. Castelvecchio Museum

The Castelvecchio Museum is housed in the imposing and unmissable 14th century medieval castle of the same name. The castle was built by the then incredibly powerful Veronese della Scala family.

The space was brought back to life when it was renovated in the mid 20th century by Carlo Scarpa. Now, the castle houses hundreds of pieces across many exhibits.

You can see sculptures, pictures, jewelry, and ancient artifacts from across Veronese history. These pieces span the ages with works from the Medieval, Renaissance, and Modern art periods. 

In addition to the museum, the castle itself is an interesting attraction. Many of its original features remain and you can explore the grounds, the ramparts, and make your way across the castle’s bridge. 

Make sure to have enough time to wander along the castle walls. There is a nice view of the Adige river and the Castelvecchio bridge from here.

Hours : Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm | More info on the  official website Ticket price : € 6.60 online | €6 at the museum Included in the Verona Card? Yes

4. Castelvecchio Bridge

The Castelvecchio Bridge (also known as the Scaliger Bridge) is a pedestrian bridge that is connected to the castle and is free to visit. Walking across the bridge provides nice views along the Adige river in both directions.

The bridge was originally built in the Middle Ages, around the mid 14th century, and stood for hundreds of years before being destroyed partially in the 19th century and then fully in the 20th century during World War II.

The bridge that stands today is a reconstruction and an exact replica of the original. 

5. Piazza delle Erbe

The Piazza delle Erbe is at the heart of Verona, Italy. This square has been important to the city of Verona since the first century BC when it was used as a Roman public forum. 

Now, the Piazza delle Erbe — translated in English to Herb Square, is a lively market square. You can come here any day of the week to experience the permanent outdoor market.

Unfortunately, these days, the local market is mainly a tourist attraction where vendors sell souvenirs instead of a typical Italian market that sells fresh produce and goods.

The square is lined with gorgeous historic buildings like the Mazzanti Houses which are adorned with stunning, colorful frescoes. In the middle of the square is a sculpture of Madonna which was constructed during Roman times. 

If you need a bit of a refresher during your busy day, then sit down at one of the many restaurants at the Piazza delle Erbe and grab an Aperol Spritz.

We wouldn’t recommend eating here, as there are much better restaurants for food that we’ve listed out in our Verona food guide.

6. Torre dei Lamberti

Climbing the Torre dei Lamberti is one of our favorite things to do in Verona as it provides unmissable views across the city. It was constructed in the Romanesque style in the 12th century by the Lamberti family. 

The tower stands at 84 meters (275 feet) tall making it the tallest building in the city. You can make your way to the top either by stairs (there are 368) or by elevator.

The elevator is see-through so you can admire the architecture of the interior of the building all the way up.

Do note though that if you take the elevator there are still a few steps when you get out to reach the true top of the tower. 

Tip: We highly suggest reserving your time slot in advance. To book your time slot, you need to send an email to the ticket office, and they will get back to you with your confirmed reservation. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to reserve online on your own.

Hours : Monday – Friday from 10:00am – 6:00pm & Saturday – Sunday from 11:00am – 7:00pm Ticket price : €6 | Reservations are highly recommended by emailing in advance on the official website Included in the Verona Card? Yes — but advanced booking is highly recommended

7. Piazza dei Signori

This square was developed in the middle ages. Back then it was surrounded by buildings of great importance — mansions of the powerful Veronese families, as well as buildings of political importance.

Today, you can still see those grand buildings though now they are used only as landmarks and attractions. Around the edges of the square you’ll find the Palazzo della Raggione — a former palace built in the 1100s, and the Loggia del Capitanato — one of many designated UNESCO world heritage sites around the city. 

In the middle of the square is a statue of Dante — giving the space its alternate name: Piazza Dante. It is said that when Dante was given safe haven here in Verona it was in this square that he found safety and inspiration for his further works. 

8. Scaliger tombs

In an effort to make sure they would not be forgotten, the powerful Scaliger family built themselves a burial place. The Scaliger family ruled Verona throughout the 13th and 14th centuries.

This complex is made of five gothic funerary monuments that are lavishly decorated with a sarcophagus, extensive statues, and other details showing off — to this day — the power the family held. 

The tombs take up an entire city block and are protected by an ornately decorated wrought iron fence. 

Hours : Tuesday – Sunday: 7:30 am – 12:30 pm & 1:30 pm to 5:00 pm (only open during the summer months) Ticket price : Free with ticket to other Verona museums & monuments Included in the Verona Card? Yes

9. Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta)

While there was never a real Juliet, it is believed that Shakespeare may have found inspiration for his timeless love story Romeo & Juliet from this house in the fair city of Verona, and the family who once lived here.

This is the home where the Dal Cappello family (Capuleti family) lived in the medieval ages. It is a tower house built in the 13th century, and today you can visit it in pursuit of the love story.

The courtyard in front is free to visit and from there you can look up at the famous balcony. While it may not matter in this world of fantasy, that balcony was only added in the last century — so neither Juliet nor Shakespeare ever would have seen it.

In the courtyard you can also find a bronze statue of Juliet. It is believed that if you rub her right breast you will gain luck in love, which is why it’s much shinier than the other.

Entering the house you’ll be able to see artifacts from the building and the family who once lived there, along with items from the much more recent screen adaptation of the story. 

There is also a spot on the grounds where people write and leave behind their love letters. 

Our personal opinion: While it is neat to see “Juliet’s home”, this is definitely a super touristy destination. Safe to say – we were a bit disappointed with the inside of the house. If you’re in a hurry, just visit the courtyard. The interior of the house is okay and not really worth visiting.

Hours : Tuesday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm Ticket price : €6 Included in the Verona Card? Yes — but advanced booking of a time for your visit is mandatory. Book online at the  official website.

10. Basilica di Santa Anastasia

This beautiful Gothic church was constructed in the 13th century. The church is the largest in Verona and is considered to be one of the most important places of Catholic worship in the city. Interestingly, despite its importance to the city, the facade of the church has remained unfinished. 

That importance is, though, reflected inside with the grandeur of the decor. Make sure to look up as you enter and admire the beautiful frescoes adorning the ceiling as well as the many statues all throughout the basilica.

One particular statute to look out for is the hunchback who is eternally crouched below the holy water — representative of the people’s support of the church. 

Hours : Monday – Friday: 10.00 am – 5.00 pm & Saturday: 9:30 am – 6:00 pm & Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM Ticket price : €4 Included in the Verona Card? Yes

11. San Fermo Maggiore

The most interesting thing about San Fermo Maggiore is that it is actually two churches in one. When the Francsicans decided to build here in the 13th century, they built it over an already existing church but left that one totally untouched. So now, you can visit both the upper and the lower churches.

The upper church is built in the French Gothic style, while the lower church is in the Romanesque style. In the Gothic church, make sure to look to the ceiling which has 416 busts of saints and incredible wooden details.

Hours : Monday – Friday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm & Saturday: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm & Sunday: 1:00 pm – 5:30 pm Ticket price : €4 Included in the Verona Card? Yes

12. Basilica di San Zeno

The San Zeno Basilica was originally built in the 5th century, but the structure that we see today mainly evolved between the 10th and 14th centuries in the Romanesque style. The exterior is warmly colored and the interior is grand and opulent.

The interior of the basilica is one of our favorites in all of Italy. Make sure to look up at the ceiling to admire the delicate wooden paneling and unique details.

The other major draw is the massive crypt of the church where the remains of Saint Zeno are housed. That, though, is not what visitors find most interesting, it is instead the fact that the crypt is where the marriage of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet took place. And of course, you can visit the space. 

While it is a bit of a walk to get here, if you have the time, we highly recommend visiting this basilica. It truly is a hidden gem in Verona.

Hours : Monday – Friday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm & Saturday: 9:30 am – 6:00 pm & Sunday: 1:00 pm – 5:30 pm Ticket price : €4 Include in the Verona Card : Yes

13. The Verona Cathedral Complex (Cathedral of Santa Maria Matricolare)

As well as the cathedral itself, the complex houses the Chiesa Rettoria di Sant’Elena and Battistero di San Giovanni in Fonte — both Catholic churches, the Canons’ Cloister, the Capitular Library of Verona, and more.

In Roman days there were more buildings such as private villas and baths here. You can still see the remains of some of those structures.

The cathedral was first built in the 4th century but it underwent many expansions to accommodate the growing community in Verona as well as a large reconstruction after a 12th century earthquake. 

The cathedral is built largely in the Romanesque architectural style — though with centuries of building it has many influences. The interior is nothing short of stunning with pink columns throughout the nave.

Of course, look to the altar for amazing artworks as well as up to the ceiling which is adorned with incredible frescoes.

Hours : Monday – Friday: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm & Saturday: 11:00 am – 3:30 pm & Sunday: 1:30 pm – 5:30 pm Ticket price: €4 Included in the Verona Card? Yes 

14. Civic Museum of Natural History

The Civic Museum of Natural History in Verona presents almost five centuries of amazing scientific artifacts and discoveries from across the Palaeolithic, Neolithic and Iron Ages.

Amazingly, there are almost three million different pieces to see in this museum. So, needless to say, you could spend a lot of time exploring and learning from it all. 

Check out taxidermy bears, insect fossils, and explore the variety of birds on display. 

Beyond the exhibits themselves, the museum is housed in Palazzo Pompei, a Renaissance palace built in the 1600s.

Hours : Tuesday – Wednesday: 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm & Thursday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm Ticket price: €4.50 Included in the Verona Card? Yes

15. Ponte Pietra

Crossing over the Adige River on the Ponte Pietra gives you amazing views of Verona including of the Cathedral and of the Roman Theater.

This Roman arch bridge is the oldest bridge in Verona and was first built by the Romans when they arrived to the city in 100 BC. 

While parts of the original bridge still stand, you can notice a distinct difference in the building materials which were used later to repair damage caused by floods and war. 

16. Piazzale Castel San Pietro

For the best panoramic views of the beautiful city of Verona, make your way to the Piazzale Castel San Pietro. Sitting atop the hill on the far side of the Adige River, the area surrounding the Castel San Pietro offers amazing views of the Veronese rooftops (views which include the Torre dei Lamberti).

The castle at the top is actually an Austrian fortress which was built in the 19th century. It was, though, built with the intention to blend in with the rest of the architecture of the city, thus giving it the name of castle. 

You can’t enter the fortress, but you can visit its exterior and stop at the restaurant at the top. This is also an amazing place to stop for sunset views over Verona. 

To reach the top you can walk up the stairs — there are about 250, or you can take a funicular up — be mindful, though, of the time for the funicular’s last trip, especially if you are going up for sunset.

Funicular hours: Summer (April – October) 10:00 am – 9:00 pm & Winter (November – March) 10:00 am – 5:00 pm  Funicular ticket price : €3 roundtrip Included in the Verona Card? No

17. Roman Theater (Teatro romano)

The ancient Roman Theater in Verona was built in the 1st century BC and remarkably, is still in use as a theater to this day. This is thanks to excavations in the 19th century which recovered the remains that had been buried beneath later settlements.

While there is some of the seating from the original theater, much of the space has needed to be reconstructed, and many modern day seats have been added. 

In addition to the theater, you can also visit the museum here which is full of Veronese and Roman history and artifacts including mosaics, sculptures, and more. 

Hours : Tuesday – Wednesday from 2:00pm – 6:00pm & Thursday – Sunday 10:00am – 6:00pm Ticket price : €6 | More info on the official website Included in the Verona Card? Yes

18. Archeological Museum

A visit to the Archeological Museum is a part of your visit to the Roman Theater in Verona. The museum is housed above the theater in a monastery, and your ticket will allow you to see both spaces and all of the amazing architecture and artifacts within. You can explore what is left of the monastery.

In the museum you’ll see statues, sculptures, artifacts, and more from Verona’s past. You can also visit the cloisters of the monastery and see all of its gorgeous frescoes. Outside are the beautifully maintained gardens which you are free to explore.

If you’re interested in learning more about Roman times, especially in Verona, this is a stop not to be missed. 

19. Wander around the streets

There are definitely a lot of amazing things to do in Verona, but sometimes the best thing to do is to simply put away the guidebooks and all the information you have about Verona, Italy and just go get lost. 

Verona is not a large city, and it is very pedestrian friendly, get out there and discover all of it. Centro storico is the name of the historic part of the city, and this is the ideal place to begin your wanderings.

Turn down those intriguing alleyways or stop in at a cafe or a bar if it takes your fancy. Make sure to go down Via Mazzini, the main shopping street of the city (also pedestrianized).

20. GAM Achille Forti Modern Art Gallery

This museum is dedicated to modern Italian art, housing 1,600 pieces in its collection spanning from the early 19th century to present day including realism, surrealism, expressionism, and more.

You can find works by renowned Veronese artists such as Renato Birolli as well as plenty of others from across the rest of Italy such as Filippo de Pisis or Arturo Tosi.

This gallery is a great way to spend some time in Verona, it lays out the history of the city beautifully through art.

We have visited many small art galleries in Italy and while some are okay, this one surprised us. We ended up spending a couple of hours here taking in all of the unique artworks.

Hours : Tuesday – Wednesday: 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm & Thursday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm Ticket price : €4 in person | €4.40 online – No need to book in advance Included in the Verona Card? Yes

21. Try the local cuisine

With a city that tells as much of a story as Verona does, a city that is over 2,000 years old, of course part of that story is the food.

There is so much of it to try on your visit to Verona, but start with these highlights. 

• Pandoro: the famous Christmas cake from Verona was first documented in the 18th century when it was enjoyed by Venetian aristocracy. Today, you only need to imagine that you are a part of the aristocracy to enjoy this vanilla sweet bread.
• Risotto all’Amarone: this dish is a risotto in a red wine sauce and it’s easily found at restaurants around the city. The color may be a little bit off putting — but the black appearance comes from the intense flavor of the local dry, red wine that this dish is made with.
• Sopressa salami: this is a special type of salami which can only come only from the region. The salami is made from pork, lard, and an array of simple spices. It is soft and rich and often served on its own or with bread. Interestingly, this is a typical morning snack in Verona.
• Pastissada de caval: while this horse meat stew may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it has a long history originating in the 5th century when the flesh of horse’s killed in battle were collected and cooked. Now, the tradition continues (though the horses do not come from battlefields) and this dish is still popular. The meat is slowly stewed in wine along with an array of veggies. It may be possible to find this dish with beef instead of horse, but it won’t have the same rich flavor. 
• Meat with pearà: Some say this dish of boiled meat in a sauce with breadcrumbs and pepper is one of the most Veronese things you can try. The meats used in this delicious dish often include beef, chicken, beef tongue, sausage, and cow trotters (feet). 
• Tortellini : Though this delicious stuffed pasta is not in fact from Verona, but rather Bologna, it is very popular in the region. There is a special type of tortellini which originates nearby — Tortellini di Valeggio. This version of the pasta has extra thin dough giving it a very fine and delicate flavor. 

22. Walk along the ancient walls of Verona

Looking up at the Castel San Pietro you’re able to see a portion of the city walls already. There are in fact three sets of city walls in Verona which were each built by different cultures over the ages.

First came the Roman walls, then the walls of the Comune, and finally the Scaliger walls. The stretch of wall which you can still find standing behind the castle today is from the Scaliger family.

Make your way to Forte San Felice behind the castle and walk along the ancient walls until you reach the historic center again. You can actually walk all the way to the Giusti Gardens this way.

We did this walk early one morning and came across locals either running or going for a morning stroll as well.

23. Giusti Gardens

The Giusti Gardens are one of the most incredible hidden gems in Verona, Italy. We visited the gardens during the fall season, and even then, they were beautiful with all the fall foliage. I can only imagine what they look like during the spring and summer.

The Giusti Gardens are 16th century, Renaissance style gardens. Wander your way through the tall cyprus trees, fountains, hedges, mazes, and greenery. We spent a good couple of hours here taking it all in – it’s a nice escape from the busy city center.

The gardens were originally built and owned by the Giusti family, which made their wealth from the wool-dyeing trade in Verona. During your visit, you can also explore Apartment 900 – part of the original family home.

Hours : Monday – Sunday: 10 am – 6 pm Ticket price: €11 Included in the Verona Card? Discounted price of €8

24. Take in the views from Santuario della Madonna di Lourdes

For possibly the best views of Verona, the Santuario della Madonna di Lourdes is the place to visit. It is even higher than the Piazzale Castel San Pietro and it is also less visited.

You can walk up by road from the historic city center, it takes about 25 – 30 minutes and is a fairly trafficked walking route, but the views are also accessible by road.

While you don’t have to go past the parking lot for views of the city, there is also a church as well as gardens which are both very peaceful and worth visiting while you’re up there. 

Hours : Church open Monday – Sunday 7:30 am – 12:00 pm & 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Ticket price : Free

25. Arco dei Gavi & Porta Borsari

Admire the city’s arches and gates – Arco dei Gavi & Porta Borsari. Thanks to the many influences, cultures, and powers in the city throughout history, Verona has unique architecture everywhere you turn. With three sets of walls there are a huge number of arches and gates to explore.

Arco dei Gavi was originally built as part of the Via Postumia, a Roman military road which ran across Northern Italy. Unfortunately, despite surviving several centuries, the original gate was destroyed during Napoleon’s reign and what is standing today is a reproduction of the original. 

Another stunning gate is the Porta Borsari which has double arches on the ground level and above that, two levels of six arches each. The beautiful white limestone used makes the structure even more eye-catching.  

26. Go rafting on the Adige River

The Adige river is vital to Verona — it gives the city its shape, both literally and figuratively. The river connected Verona throughout history, it provided protection and importance and routes in and out. Now, it is a beautiful aspect of Verona which you can enjoy on a rafting trip.

Adige Rafting Verona offers two hour rafting trips which bring you down the river, all the way through the city. This is a great way to get out in the sunshine (hopefully!), get a bit of physical exercise, and also learn more about the history and culture surrounding the river. 

While much of the rafting trip is very laid back, there are a few spots where you’ll have the opportunity to navigate some soft white water. Life jackets are provided but you’re likely to get wet so a change of clothes is recommended! Kids as young as three years old are welcome on the tours. 

Ticket price : Adults €25 & Kids under 12 €18 Where to buy tickets: Reserve online at the official site

27. Cimitero Monumentale

It may seem odd to recommend visiting a cemetary, but we really enjoy seeing historic cemetaries around Europe. The grounds of this 19th century cemetery are quite ornate and beautiful. The old cemetery is fully enclosed with long rows of columns in a neoclassical design.

At either end there are two pantheon structures, one of which is based on the famous Pantheon in Rome. Dissecting this space is a series of cyprus trees and hedges.

The tombstones here are arranged in order of importance and wealth, with those who held prestige in life, receiving cover from the elements, and those from poorer families being buried outside.

A few of the more notable Veronese buried here are the writer Emilio Salgari and the artist Umberto Boccioni.

Hours : Monday – Sunday from 8:00 am – 5:30 pm

28. Go on a history walking tour 

As you’ve probably gathered from reading through this list of best things to do in Verona, the city is steeped in history. Founded in the first century BC, Verona has seen Romans, Ostrogoths, Lombards, Carolingians, Scaligers, and Austrians, before finally becoming a part of present day Italy.

You can definitely pick up lots of bits and pieces of these centuries in Verona by visiting various monuments, but the very best way to understand more of a full picture is on a history walking tour. 

Here are a few Verona walking tours we recommend:

• Verona Highlights Walking Tour – This small group tour takes you around the city with an expert guide.
• Best of Verona Highlights Walking Tour with Arena – This 3-hour tour takes you to the city’s highlights and includes skip-the-line tickets to the Verona Arena.

29. Go on a food or wine tour 

Italian food is always amazing, and Verona is no exception.

From meats and risottos to pastas and wines, there are a whole lot of local delicacies to try here.

You can sit down for a few meals, but especially if you’re short on time in Verona, a food or wine tour is a great way to knock it all out in one go. 

Best Verona Food Tours:

• Verona Food, Wine & History tour : This is the tour to take if you want a bit of history and a bit of food. You’ll wander through the streets of Verona with a guide learning about the main sights all while sipping and eating your way through the city.
• 3-hour Verona Food Tour  – On this food tour, you’ll get to taste five different dishes plus some local wine while wandering the historic streets of Verona.

Best Verona Wine Tours:

• Full-day wine tasting tour  | On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy tastings at three wineries, learn about the local wine-making process, and have a sit-down lunch at a fantastic restaurant. This is our top pick!
• Amarone wine-tasting tour  | During this 4-hour small group tour, you’ll taste local wines, tour vineyards, and learn about the process of making the local wines.
• E-bike wine experience  | Explore the Valpolicella valley by e-bike while tasting local wines and learning about local winemaking with an expert sommelier.

30. Porta Leoni

Located in the historic city center, you’ll find an ancient Roman gate and ruins. Porta Leoni is a true hidden gem in Verona and is originally from the 1st century BC.

It used to stand at 13 meters (42.5 feet) high and was a main entrance into the Roman city.

We happened upon these Roman ruins while wandering the city. It’s always fascinating to experience modern times and ancient history simultaneously.

31. Take a day trip to nearby city 

Verona sits in a prime and central location in Northern Italy for day trips. Once you’ve finished up your list of activities in Verona, don’t pack up your bags just yet.

During our month in Verona, we spent a large amount of our time exploring the nearby towns on day trips. Check out our list of the 15 best day trips from Verona , or see a few of our top choices below.

• Lake Garda : The largest lake in Italy, Lake Garda is an idyllic setting which is nothing short of picture-perfect. There are several destinations around the lakeshore, one of the easiest to get to from Verona is Peschiera del Garda which can be reached on a quick 15-20 minute train ride. 
• Venice : Venice is the magical city of canals and iconic gondola rides where you can enjoy gelato and shop for carnival masks — no matter the time of year. The train trip from Verona to Venice is one hour.
• Padua : Padua is a small city known for its beautiful churches — Scrovegni Chapel and the Basilica of St. Anthony. The train trip from Verona to Padua is about 45 minutes each way.
• Bologna : Bologna is worth visiting if only for a bowl of fresh pasta and bolognese sauce! But actually, there is plenty else to do. You can get there on the train from Verona in just under an hour.
• Madonna della Corona Sanctuary: The 17th century church seems to defy reality in its perch on a cliffside in the Alps. It’s not easy to access the Madonna della Corona Sanctuary by train so you’re best to drive — the trip takes about an hour.

Don’t have time to see it all? Verona top 10

Here’s a list of the top 10 things to do in Verona if you don’t have time to see everything on this list. 

• Verona Arena & Piazza Bra
• Castelvecchio Museum & Bridge
• Piazza delle Erbe & Piazza dei Signori
• Torre dei lamberti
• Giusti Gardens
• Basilica di Santa Anastasia
• Basilica di San Zeno
• Ponte Pietra & Piazzale San Pietro
• Juliet’s House
• Roman Theater

Map of things to do in Verona

To help you best navigate your way around, here is a map of all of the best things to do in Verona and restaurants listed in this itinerary.

To save the map to Google Maps on your phone or computer, click on the star next to the title. Once you do this, you’ll be able to find the map in your “saved maps” list on your phone.

To see a list of all the items on the map, click the box with arrow on the left. To enlarge the map, click the box on the right.

The Verona Card

The Verona Card is a great investment to make for your trip to the city. Based on our experience, you’ll come out saving a good bit of money — especially if you make your way through most of the best of Verona, Italy.

The card is offered as either a 24 or 48 hour card. Both versions include free access to about 16 different spots in the city.

It also gives you a reduced ticket price at a further six city attractions. With the Verona Card you’ll also get free bus rides for the duration of its validity.

We bought the 48-hour Verona card and saw all of the main sights listed in this post within two days. It definitely saved us a lot of money and was easy and convenient to use.

You can purchase the pass online below and then pick it up at the Verona Tourist Office in Piazza Bra.

• 24-hour Verona city pass
• 48-hour Verona city pass

It’s important to note that there are a couple of activities you need to reserve a time slot for in advance even with the pass, such as Juliet’s House and the Torre dei Lamberti.

Where to eat in Verona 

There are so many great places to eat in Verona. Luckily, we spent a month here taste testing the best for you. Here are some of our favorites. 

Cafes in Verona: 

• Pasticceria Flego – For both a scrumptious and Instagram swoon-worthy snack, this is the perfect little place. Try the delicious stuffed brioche and have a coffee.
• Dolciaria Cantonucci Verona – Breakfast lovers will delight here in this fun cafe and sandwich shop which serves classics like an omelet as well as loads of fresh pastries. 
• Café Carducci – This beautiful classic vintage cafe has breakfast options like omelets, brioche, coffee, stunning cheese and charcuterie boards, and more.
• Caffe Borsari – One of the best places to get coffee in Verona. Their cappuccino is amazing!

Quick eats in Verona: 

• La Bottega della Gina XXL – Order your bowl of fresh tortellini totally customized to your tastes and watch as it’s all prepped right there in front of you. If you’re overwhelmed by choice, get the mixed option.
• La Figaccia – If you’re looking for an amazingly delicious focaccia sandwich that is properly stuffed with a good portion of fillings, you’re in for a treat. 
• Dal Grano – If you’re after a quick meal to go, these delicious square pizza slices are considered to be the best in the city.
• PanzeRé – Panzerotteria – These stuffed breads are a must-try — especially if you’re ever in need of a late night snack, order the one stuffed with tomatoes and mozzarella

Restaurants in Verona: 

• Caffè Monte Baldo – Osteria con cucina – This classic Italian restaurant has a great selection of small plates and cicchetti and serves all of the Veronese classics. 
• Trattoria alla Colonna – This is a great place to go if you’re craving a good solid meat dish as it’s best known for the amazing fried veal cutlets.
• Locanda di Castelvecchio – If you’re really feeling your meat — this is the spot (and probably not a great choice for vegetarians), there’s a cart of boiled meats that goes around which you can choose from, plus they serve amazing pastas.
• Trattoria al Pompiere – You can’t go wrong with basically anything off the menu here as everything is delicious, plus the wine list is top tier and the knowledgeable staff can recommend a pairing for anything. 

Healthier options: 

• Zazie Verona – In addition to beautiful coffees, here you can get all sorts of vegetarian dishes like noodle bowls, set lunches, and a huge variety of toasts. There is a definite international influence on the menu. 

Gelato in Verona:   

• Zeno Ice Cream And Chocolate – For slightly quirkier flavor options, this is the spot… have you ever tried a beer-flavored gelato?
• Gelateria La Romana – If you’re really committed, this is the best gelato shop in Verona with beautiful fluffy choices, but it is located outside of the historic city center so it’ll take a bit more effort to get to

Where to stay in Verona

These are our top picks for the best hotels in Verona that accommodate every type of budget.

Luxury:  Vista Palazzo  | This 5-star hotel features gorgeous modern rooms, rooftop views, and top amenities like a spa and gym.

Boutique:  Hotel Accademia  | A wonderful hotel located in the heart of the old town with amenities like a gym and breakfast.

Budget:  Casa Esvael  | This charming b&b is located just a 5-minute walk from the center of Verona and offers a lovely rustic Italian stay.

How much time to spend in Verona? 

Verona isn’t a huge city geographically, but, as you can see from this list of 31 things to do in Verona there is a lot to fill up your time with! To make sure you hit all that you must do in Verona, you’ll want to book for a minimum of two days in the city.

If you want to add in a day trip to one of the nearby destinations, give yourself a well-rounded three days (at least). Adding in extra time will only add to your relaxation and ability to fit more in more.

Whether that be more Verona attractions, day trips, meals, or time spent wandering aimlessly.

On the other end, if you only have one day to fit Verona in your Italy itinerary, it’s not impossible, and if you follow this one day Verona itinerary you’ll still be able to see a lot.

How to get to Verona

Getting to Verona by plane

There’s one airport in Verona which receives domestic and international flights. The airport’s name is Valerio Catullo Airport, it’s about 10 km (around 6 miles) from the center of Verona.

There are quite a few airlines which use the airport such as Lufthansa, KLM, and Easyjet. The airlines service around 80 destinations direct from Verona — mostly in Europe.

How to get from the Verona airport to the city center

To get from the airport into the center of Verona you can get the 199 bus . A one way ticket costs €6 per person.

Alternatively, if you want to get a taxi from the airport, it’ll be around €25 one way. As with anywhere, it’s a good idea to make sure you watch the route your taxi driver takes to ensure you’re not being overcharged.

If you’re going to get a rental car in Verona, the easiest option is to pick it up at the airport — the drive from there is about 15 minutes. But keep in mind that you really won’t need the car during your time in Verona so depending on costs it may be best to wait until you’re headed off again to pick it up. 

Getting to Verona by train

You can easily access Verona by train from many destinations around Italy. Cities like Milan, Venice, and Trieste are all close to Verona and the train journeys are easy and convenient with each taking somewhere around 60 to 90 minutes. 

There are two train stations in the city — the main being Verona Porta Nuova, and the secondary being Verona Porta Vescovo. Porta Nuova is just to the west of the city center, the walk into town is pretty easy and if you don’t have too much luggage and are happy to do it, it should only take around 20 minutes.

If you do have a lot of luggage, a bus may be better, there are several bus routes which will get you downtown quickly. 

Getting to Verona by car

Driving in to Verona is a great opportunity to take a day to explore the nearby countryside. Trips from the close cities such as Venice, Bologna, and Milan only take around 90 minutes so you could easily take it slow and spend the whole day making your way to the city by car.

Remember though, if you come by car you’d be wise to either return it on arrival or find a safe parking place where you won’t need to worry about or move it for the duration of your stay. 

Planning on renting a car in Italy? When we book a rental car in Italy, we use Discover Cars . We always find the best deals here, plus the insurance is affordable.

How to get around Verona?

Verona is a very walkable city and everything on this list of places to go in Verona, Italy is close together. It would likely take more time to drive or to wait for public transportation to get from place to place than to simply walk.

That being said, there are buses in the city which can get you around quite quickly — this is especially useful for any trips to the outskirts.

You can buy tickets for cheap online or on the bus, but keep in mind that if you purchase the Verona card all of your bus travel is included for the duration of its validity. 

Best Time to Visit Verona

Summer in Verona is definitely nice, but shoulder seasons — spring and autumn, are the best choice. Not only will the weather be more mild, but the crowds will be thinner and the prices for things like accommodation and flights will be more affordable.

In both the spring and the autumn you can expect day time temperatures in the mid 60s F with minimal rainfall. The best shoulder season month is September, the crowds (and school kids) have left but the temperatures remain in the mid to high 70s F with very minimal rainfall. 

In addition to the warm months, Christmas is a wonderful time to visit . The city has one of the best Christmas markets in Northern Italy, plus you can enjoy mulled wine and see the city all lit up and decked out for the holidays!

FAQ: Things to do in Verona

What is Verona, Italy best known for? 

Verona, Italy is best known as the home of Shakespeare’s star crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet. Though the story is fictional, you can find many spots which inspired, and were inspired by, the famous tale.

In addition to the fictional romance, Verona is known for its history — dating as far back as the first century BC when the Romans first founded the city. 

Is it worth visiting Verona? 

Yes! It is very much worth visiting Verona. The city is full of fascinating things to see and do. You can explore Roman ruins and discover the ancient history of the city.

You can see art and sample gelato, you can raft down the river and climb towers. You won’t need to wonder what to do in Verona because there is simply plenty to do!

Is Verona a walkable city? 

Yes, Verona is a very walkable city. The central area of Verona is compact and much of it is pedestrianized, making it both easy and safe to navigate on foot.

The city is also largely flat so you won’t need to be climbing up and down hills for much of your Verona sightseeing. 

More information for your trip to Italy

• Bologna to Verona day trip
• Milan to Verona day trip
• Best Things to do in Bologna
• Is Venice worth visiting?

ITALY TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE Italy Travel Insurance  – Should you get travel insurance for Italy? YES! We always get travel insurance before all of our trips for peace of mind. Check out  Safety Wing  to find the best plan for you. Italy Rental Cars  – Is it safe to rent a car in Italy? Yes! We’ve rented a car in Italy too many times to count, and it’s definitely the most convenient way to get around the countryside. We rented our car through  Discover Cars  (our go-to rental agency), which helps you find the best rates no matter where you are traveling. Italy Phone Plans –  If your phone plan does not offer free coverage in Italy, then we suggest getting an eSIM. We used  Airalo  during our trip to Italy, and we had fantastic coverage the entire time. It’s easy to download and you can even top up via the app if needed. Italy Hotels –  Wondering where to book your accommodations for Italy? We’ve been reserving all of our hotels through  Booking  for years. Their messaging tool makes it easy to communicate with the hotels, and there are endless options to choose from.

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History, facts and travel tips about Verona

Celebrated by Shakespeare , who made it famous as the romantic setting for the moving tale of Romeo and Juliet , Verona is a splendid, ancient corner of the Veneto region, nestling between the river Adige and Lake Garda, and intimately linked to their waters. The Adige today flows between strong embankments, built after the 1882 flood to contain the devastating river water.

Already in ancient times Verona was linked to the river as an essential route for traffic and commerce and it was not by chance that the Romans , who well understood where best to found their cities, established themselves there.

Precisely because it was navigable as far as Trento, the Adige was a fundamental communication route and the economy of Verona , like those of the villages along the river, was closely linked to water. This is testified to by the numerous mills , the images of the characteristic washerwomen and the monasteries , which had the right to exploit the waters of the river.

The origins of the name Verona are unknown: it may be derived from Vera, perhaps an Etruscan person's name; or it might be of Gallic origin; it may be the name of a Roman family or come from the Latin ver , meaning "spring". But according to one legend the legendary founder of the city, the Gallic chieftain Brenno , called the new inhabited centre Vae Roma, that is "Accursed Rome", which then over the centuries became Verona .

The area was already inhabited in prehistoric times, but who the first people were to establish themselves there remains a mystery. In 89 BC, when it became a Roman Colony , the city began to stand out. The traces of the Romans' works remain very much in evidence to this day.

With the descent of the Barbarians in the 3rd century AD, Verona became an efficient military base for the control of the borders, especially after Gallienus had strengthened its city walls. In spite of this the city yielded to the Visigoth invasion, to Attila , to Theodoricus' Ostrogoths and finally to the Longobards , who however were defeated by the Franks in 774.

From the Middle Ages onwards Verona , more than all the other small towns of North Italy, was always an important artistic centre with a flourishing school of painters. In 1136 it too became a free Commune town and, when decay was inescapable, the Signoria Scaligera (rule of the Scaligera family) established itself. The new rulers dedicated themselves to reorganising the whole town, changing its layout.

Again for defensive purposes a new, wider surrounding wall was built, allowing new spaces also for the future growth of the inhabited centre. The communal walls remained, to act as a second circle of defence, and in 1354 they were re-used by Cangrande II for the building of the Ponte Scaligero (Scaligero Bridge) and of Castelvecchio , a veritable defensive fortress. The economy flourished and Piazza delle Erbe was created precisely as a market place, for commerce and exchange.

The palaces bounding the almost adjacent Piazza dei Signori were commissioned by Cangrande and Francesco della Scala , who ordered that they should be connected between them at street level, by means of arcades, internal courtyards and covered or uncovered passages, as if to make the lord's space and power known to the public.

Venetian domination in the 15th century did not greatly change Verona, which did not entirely lose its particular defensive characteristics until the 17th century, when it became chiefly a centre of commerce in the hands of the French and the Austrians , who divided the town between them in the late 1700s and early 1800s.

During the Second World War Verona was a refuge for officials of the Fascist regime and as a result was heavily bombed. Verona was extensively rebuilt in the post-war period and so, having lost much of its heritage, also lost its original evocative appearance.

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17 Places to See & Best Things to Do in Verona, Italy (+Map & Travel Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 20, 2024

Visiting Verona in Italy and wondering what to expect and what to see and do in the city? In this guide, we cover all the musts – the best places to see and things to do in Verona for first-time visitors . Take a look!

Verona lies in the Veneto region in the north of the country and is one of the prettiest cities in Italy . Known as a romantic destination because of its association with Romeo and Juliet, the city is still much quieter than the major tourist destinations like Rome , Venice , Florence , or Milan .

Yet there are many good reasons to visit Verona beyond the famous Juliet’s Balcony… From its historic amphitheater and the beautifully preserved churches and ancient bridges to the beautiful wine region just near the city, Verona has more to offer than it looks at first glance.

In this guide, you can read about the VERY BEST things to see and do in Verona . We cover all the musts for first-time visitors, but also a few of the nicest sights and attractions for those of you who have a bit more time in the area. It’s well worth planning a bit more time in Verona and exploring deeper!

We also created a map of the main landmarks of Verona and included some helpful tips for visiting each attraction. You can find all this information at the bottom of this article.

Take a look!

PRO TIP: As you’ll see below, almost all the main landmarks in Verona require a ticket. But pretty much all of them are also included with the Verona Card . You can get this card for 1 or 2 days and it offers exceptional value for those who want to visit all the best places in Verona.

Verona Card pays off even if you just visit 3-4 of the most popular attractions in Verona, not even to mention the use of public transport, etc.

Since most of the main sights in Verona don’t require lots of time, you’ll likely cover most of them during your visit. So this city pass is a really good value. We hardly ever get city passes for a short city visit, but in Verona, it really makes sense.

Top 4 Experiences in Verona:

• Verona Card with Arena Priority Entrance
• Wine Tasting Tours
• Countryside E-bike Tours

These are the main attractions and best things to do in Verona, Italy:

1. Arena di Verona

Dating all the way back to 30 AD, Arena di Verona is a splendid amphitheater and definitely #1 of the best places to see in Verona!

Verona Arena can easily rival the famous Colosseum in Rome (which was built a few decennia later, around 70-80 AD). In a way, it’s even more impressive since it’s so perfectly preserved. Arena di Verona is still used for live opera performances today!

Built to hold 30,000 spectators, this architectural marvel is located at Piazza Bra in the heart of the historic town. Citizens from all over the Roman Empire would have come here to watch ‘ludi’ (Roman games and shows).

Containing all of its original arches and seating, the Arena is absolutely fascinating to visit, either during an opera performance or as part of a sightseeing tour . From the upper levels, you have a great overview of the Arena itself, but also a nice high-angle view of the city center.

We explain all the best ticket options for visiting Arena di Verona below.

Tickets and tours: You can opt for a single ticket or visit Verona Arena with Verona Card that gives you skip-the-line access. Alternatively, if you want to get a bit more background information, you can also book a skip-the-line Arena guided tour . A popular option is also this guided city tour that – among other sights – includes a visit to the Arena as well.

Either way, getting skip-the-line tickets/ booking a tour in advance is well worth it; especially if visiting Verona in the high season (+-April to October) or on the weekends.

Good to know: In addition to visiting the Arena for sightseeing, it’s really worth trying to attend an opera performance here at night. The sight of the Arena all lit up and the magic of listening to such music in a real ancient amphitheater makes for an unforgettable evening!

If you are visiting Verona on a weekend (Thursday-Sunday) during the summer months, don’t miss this bucket list experience!

You can see the calendar and reserve your ticket for the opera performance in advance on their website or on GetYourGuide . The latter has a special deal that includes tickets for the opera performance, plus a guided city tour, public transport in the area, reservation fees, etc. And – the main advantage – you can cancel for free up to 24hrs before the date of the event.

If you didn’t reserve in advance, you may still try to get a ticket on the day itself. Also, the cheapest tickets are for the stone steps and the seats are unreserved . So if you get one of those, make sure you arrive early to get a good spot. You can also rent a cushion for a couple of euros, which I would definitely recommend doing. The alternative is to sit on the hard stone for the duration of the performance!

TIP: As you enter the Arena for a performance, make sure you pick up a candle from the large unmarked box by the gate. These are free and given to honor ‘the tradition of the candles’, which is apparently how the stage was illuminated in the past. These days, everyone is asked to light their candle right before the performance begins, which is an awesome sight!

2. Piazza Bra

Piazza Bra is Verona’s largest town square and the place where most tourists to begin their visit to the city. You’ll likely come here through I Portoni della Brà , the impressive Verona city gates. Under the gate, you can see a small statue of William Shakespeare.

Located on the edge of the city center, Piazza Bra is home to the Arena di Verona . It has lots of open space around the arena too, offering plenty of opportunities to take nice pictures of the amphitheater.

You’ll find many other historic buildings here too including the Palazzo Beriberi and the Gran Guardia Palace . In the center of the square stands the statue of the Italian King Vittorio Emanuele II on horseback. Whereas the southern end of the piazza is enclosed by part of Verona’s medieval city walls and the above-mentioned city gate.

Piazza Bra is lined with lots of colorful shops and homes, with pretty balconies and decorated shutters. It’s also filled with terraces and cafes, making it a great place for a cup of coffee and some people-watching.

If you’re here before dinner, you’ll likely see groups of friends and families walking around as they take part in their daily passeggiata . This is the Italian ritual of taking a stroll before eating.

Good to know: There is a pretty little park in the piazza – Giardini Vittorio Emanuele II – that offers some shade and has a few benches. It’s a great place to take a little rest from sightseeing. There is a fountain in the middle called Fontana delle Alpi or Fontana di Piazza Brà . The locals call it ‘lemon squeezer’ because that’s exactly what it looks like!

3. Piazza delle Erbe

There are lots of lovely squares to visit in Verona. Piazza delle Erbe in the middle of the historic old town is probably my personal favorite. Diamond-shaped and lined with important buildings, it was Verona’s principal Forum.

This is where you’ll find the beautiful Baroque Palazzo Maffei and the Torre Lamberti , along with lots of charming cafes to enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. Take the time to admire all the buildings here – many of them have colorful mural paintings.

Look out for the ‘Capitello’ in the center of the square. This columned canopy dates back to the 16th century and was the place where punishment sentences were announced. You can also see a 14th-century Madonna di Verona fountain , with the statue itself dating back to 380 AD.

You can’t really miss the Lion of St. Mark located on the column in front of Gardello Tower and Maffei Palace. This winged statue symbolizes Venetian rule and you can find a number of depictions throughout the city.

There are usually lots of market stalls on Piazza delle Erbe. Nowadays, they tend to sell a lot more souvenirs than the handmade goods they were originally used for. The umbrellas cover the view somewhat and might detract a bit from the beauty of the square, but the bustling atmosphere in the historic setting makes this unique square one of the best places to see in Verona!

4. Torre dei Lamberti

Located on the Piazza delle Erbe, the Lamberti Tower stands at an impressive 84m high. Although work on the tower originally began in the 12th century, the octagonal tower floor with its marble arches was only added until 1464.

There are two bells in the belfry. The largest – The Rengo – is a 1557 replacement for the original. It was used to call meetings of the city council. The smaller Marangona was used to alert citizens to fire.

Admiring the 360-degree views from the top of the Lamberti Tower is something you really must do during a visit to Verona! You can see across the whole city, the hills nearby, and even the mountains to the north.

Good to know: You have two options to get to the top of the tower. You can either to walk up the 368 steps or take the elevator (there are still a few steps to climb at the very top, though). The walls of the elevator are transparent so you still get to enjoy the amazing architecture on the way up!

Practical info: Torre dei Lamberti is open daily (except Christmas Day) and you can get a ticket on the spot. The same ticket also gives you access to the adjacent Gallery of Modern Art as well. The Lamberti Tower – just as most other Verona attractions – is also included with the Verona Card .

TIP: Just at the bottom of the tower, there’s a small museum called Galleria d’Arte Moderna Achille Forti. Even if you are not visiting the art gallery inside, it’s worth seeing the building. On the other hand, this museum is also included with the city card and doesn’t take much time, so you may want to check it out as well.

5. Casa di Giulietta & Juliet’s Balcony

Juliet’s House ( Casa di Giulietta ) is one of the most popular places to see in Verona. It’s world famous as the setting of Shakespeare’s play ‘Romeo and Juliet’. And yes, you can see the famous Juliet’s Balcony here – even if you decide not don’t visit the inside of the house itself.

Despite the fact that Shakespeare never actually visited Italy, this 14th-century building and its balcony are synonymous with one of the most romantic stories of all times. For that reason, Casa di Giulietta attracts visitors from all over the world.

Here you can pose for photos with a statue of Juliet and see the bed inside the house that appeared in the Zeffirelli film version of ‘Romeo & Juliet’ . More recently, Juliet’s House also featured in the blockbuster movie ‘Letters to Juliet’ .

Located on 23 Via Capello in the very heart of Verona, Casa di Giulietta is reached by a covered pathway. Here you will see all manner of romantic graffiti, handwritten letters, and post-it notes with love messages left by visitors. Don’t try adding one yourself, though, as this is no longer allowed.

The main attraction, of course, is the balcony where Romeo professed his love to Juliet. Sadly, this balcony isn’t quite as authentic as it seems and was actually added in the 1930s to bring life to Shakespeare’s play and encourage even more tourists!

Good to know: You can see the house, the famous balcony, and the bronze statue of Juliet for free, but you will need a ticket to visit the museum inside the house. It’s also included with the earlier-mentioned Verona Card , which offers really good value if you plan to visit several Verona attractions and museums inside.

Practical information: Juliet’s House is open daily except for Mondays (unless it’s a public holiday like e.g. Easter Monday, when it’s open as well – this counts for most other Verona attractions too).

6. Piazza dei Signori

Piazza dei Signori i s one of Verona’s lesser-known piazzas, mostly visited by tourists when it hosts its annual Christmas and Easter markets. But it’s a really nice town square, just steps away from the above-mentioned places and well worth visiting for its historical interest!

Located beside Piazza della Erbe, Piazza dei Signori was once the center of Verona’s public institutions. The square houses the 15th-century Loggia del Consiglio , which was originally the city hall. You can also see several palazzos here, such as the Palazzo del Comune and the Palazzo del Podestà , once the residence of the Scaligeri family, and now the state government office.

Piazza dei Signori is often referred to as Piazza Dante. This is because it contains a monument to “The Divine Comedy” author Dante Alighieri , who lived in Verona from 1312 to 1318, after which he moved to Ravenna where he spent the last years of his life.

Good to know: There have been recent excavations here that have unearthed Roman remains beneath the current street level. These include mosaics and a Roman street, which you can actually view from the Capitano Palace (Palazzo di Cansignorio) through the large glass ‘windows’ in the ground.

TIP: Check out Caffè Dante Bistrot, Verona’s oldest coffee house (1865). It is located in Casa della Pietà with a pretty coral-colored exterior and carved statue embellishments. Although, be aware of high prices and extra charges if you decide to eat here.

Tour tip: If you want to see the best of Verona with a local and learn more about Dante at the same time, check out this highly-rated ‘Dante in Verona’ walking tour .

7. Arche Scaligere

Scaligeri Tombs ( Arche Scaligere ) is another landmark to see in Verona city center.

Located next to the Church of Saint Mary ‘Antica’ and right next to the square of Piazza dei Signori, this is a group of five Gothic funerary monuments to the noble Della Scala family. Each tomb is dedicated to a different lord of Verona.

The family – also known as Scaligeri or Scaliger – ruled Verona in the 13th and 14th centuries and there are several monuments to them throughout the city.

Good to know: Scaligeri Tombs are separated from the street by a wall and iron bars. To get a better look at them, you’ll have to pay a small entrance fee. It’s open every day throughout the year and yes, the entrance here is also included with the Verona Card .

8. Castelvecchio Bridge & Museum

Castelvecchio is a magnificent building located on the banks of the River Adige, just outside of the medieval city walls. Constructed in 1354, it originally served as both a fortress and a residence. Nowadays, this is a museum dedicated to Verona’s past.

The artifacts on display inside the museum range from ceramics and sacred art to coins and weaponry. There are also some exceptional paintings from the early Renaissance period, along with elegant Romanesque sculptures.

The exterior is impressive too, featuring an imposing gatehouse with two guard towers and crenulated battlements. But the highlight is the 14th century arched stone bridge Ponte di Castelvecchio (aka Ponte Scaligero) attached to the main complex.

The longest of its kind in the world when it was originally built, the bridge is decorated in the same style as the castle walls. It features several sets of stairs in its towers which you climb for splendid views of the castle and down the River Adige.

Be sure to take a stroll along the riverbank, too, for some great photographs of the bridge itself.

Good to know: The Castelvecchio museum is undoubtedly the best in Verona and you should set aside at least an hour or two for a visit here. However, it’s just a few minutes walk from the main sights in Verona’s old town. So even if you don’t have time to visit inside, it’s still worth coming here to see the castle and the bridge!

Practical information: Castelvecchio Museum is open daily except on Mondays. It’s also included with the Verona Card .

9. Ponte Pietra

Ponte Pietra (‘the stone bridge’) is the oldest bridge in Verona. Originally built around 89-100 BC, the bridge was also part of Via Postumia, an ancient Roman road connecting Genoa to Aquileia.

One of the most picturesque bridges in Verona, Ponte Pietra has collapsed due to floods many times throughout history. It was rebuilt time and again. Most recently, it was partially destroyed during WWII and was rebuilt in the 1950s using the original style and materials as much as possible.

Note the big round holes in the middle – these are ‘flood eyes’ that are supposed to help reduce the water pressure on the bridge in case of a flood. You can see a similar Roman bridge with an ‘oculus’ – Ponte Sisto – in Rome as well.

The views from this bridge are really nice too, with the hilltop church Santuario della Nostra Signora di Lourdes to one side and Verona old town to the other.

Good to know: Ponte Pietra is just a 10-15 min scenic walk from the main landmarks in the historic city center. The bridge connects this part of town to the Roman theater and the castle on the other side of the River Adige (more info about these landmarks below).

10. Roman Theater & Archeological Museum

The 1st-century Roman Theater and Archeological Museum (Museo Archeologico al Teatro Romano) is another ancient landmark worth seeing in Verona.

During the summer you can see live outdoor performances here, or simply enjoy the amazing view from the top of the theater looking over the River Adige. The museum filled with statues, bronzes, glasswork, and Roman mosaics is fascinating too. It’s housed in the former Convento dei Gesuiti .

TIP: The stonework here serves as a sun trap and it can get incredibly hot in the summer, so try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Practical information: Just as pretty much any museum in Verona, the Roman Theater and Archeological Museum is open daily except on Mondays. It’s also included with the Verona Card .

11. Views from Castel San Pietro

The Castle of Saint Peter ( Castel San Pietro ) sits on a site on the eastern bank of the River Adige, where a church dedicated to the saint once stood. The castle itself was constructed in the 14th century to help bolster the city’s defenses.

Although the castle is not open to the public, its position on the top of a hill gives you breathtaking views across the red rooftops to the center of Verona.

Indeed, this is the highest viewpoint in the city and not to be missed! It’s also a popular place to watch the sunset in Verona.

Good to know: You can reach the top of the hill on foot, starting at the Ponte Pietra next to the Roman Theater. The walk is only mildly demanding and takes about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the one-way ride up on the funicular railway, enjoying the view as you ascend.

TIP: Visit in the early evening with a bottle of wine and join other visitors in watching the sun go down over the city – a truly memorable experience.

12. Duomo – Verona’s Cathedral

Cattedrale di Santa Maria Matricolare was consecrated in 1187 and is one of Verona’s oldest religious buildings. If you visit one church in Verona, make it the Duomo !

A beautiful example of 12th-century Romanesque architecture, the Cathedral is stunning both inside and out. Its 15th-century Gothic nave is lined with marble columns and the main chapels feature decorative Renaissance frescoes. The most impressive fresco is located at the altar, beside which you can also see an enormous gold organ.

Look through the glass panels on the glass floor and you can see the remains of the previous church that lie beneath.

Practical information: All the main churches in Verona are open daily, but the hours differ per church and per day. You can find all the practical info here .

TIP: If for whatever strange reason you opt not to get Verona Card, you can also buy one low-cost ticket for all four of Verona’s main churches (the Cathedral Complex, the Basilica di San Zeno, the Basilica di Santa Anastasia, and San Fermo). This ticket offers great value for those who want to visit all the best churches in Verona.

Good to know: Al the religious sights in Italy have a dress code for entry which requires that your knees and shoulders must be covered. This is also the case if you are visiting the churches in Verona.

13. Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore

Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore is one of Northern Italy’s best-preserved examples of Romanesque architecture. This beautiful 12th-century church is located on the west side of the River Adige. It’s a little outside of the main sightseeing routes in Verona and therefore relatively peaceful. However, as far as the best places to see in Verona go, this Basilica is well worth a detour!

The exterior is striking, made from a warmly colored combination of tufa stone and bricks. While the interior is adorned with marble columns and stunning artwork. The cloisters are really nice too! But perhaps the most noteworthy is the San Zeno Altarpiece . It’s considered to be Verona’s first major Renaissance piece and the inspiration for other local artists.

Yet despite its beauty and architectural importance, San Zeno Maggiore is famous for quite a different reason! It was in its crypt that the marriage of Shakespeare’s Rome and Juliet took place.

Good to know: You need to buy a ticket to enter the church, but you can see the beautifully restored cloisters and stunning bronze doors for free. You can also admire the beautiful rose window above them. And yes – you probably guessed it by now – the entrance here is also included with Verona Card .

TIP: If you are in Verona on a Sunday, you can combine your visit to San Zeno Maggiore with a trip to the flea market on Piazza San Zeno. This is more of a local market than a tourist one, so you can pick up some great Italian antiques and bric-a-brac. Just be aware that few stall-holders here speak English, so haggling might be a challenge!

14. Basilica di Santa Anastasia

Basilica di Santa Anastasia is another church that’s well worth seeing in Verona. It’s a lovely building designed by two Dominican friars in the 13th century.

The largest church in Verona, it’s located at the end of the Decumanus Maximus. This was the main Roman road in Verona connecting Porta Borsari to the former Postumio Bridge.

With its beautiful vaulted ceiling soaring to a great height, Sant’Anastasia is best known for its beautiful frescoes and impressive red Veronese marble pillars. The most famous is Pisanello’s fresco ‘St. George & the Princess’. You can also see carved stone scenes depicting the life of Saint Peter and a pair of fonts held by hunchbacked marble grotesques.

TIP: The cost of admission includes a very good audio tour which is both informative and easy to follow.

15. San Fermo Maggiore

Chiesa di San Fermo Maggiore is the lesser-visited of the four main churches in Verona. But it’s unique and well worth a look too!

The original church here dates from the 11-14th centuries and has been rebuilt later. Thus the mix of romanesque and gothic styles. Inside, you can see lots of stunning artworks and paintings, with images of over 400 saints. The wooden ceiling is very impressive!

But what makes San Fermo Maggiore more special is that it has two levels ; with a small older chapel located underneath the current church.

Good to know: Visit here is also free with Verona Card or the earlier-mentioned Churches Pass.

16. Il Giardino Giusti

Located on the grounds of the Giusti Palace located on the River Adige’s eastern bank, il Giardino Giusti are spectacular 16th-century gardens. These are the finest gardens in the city!

This park is a bit of a hidden gem in Verona, but it’s well worth a visit if you have more time to explore beyond the main sights and attractions.

Giardino Giusti gardens are divided into 8 sections and each one has a different theme, with its own decoration or fountain in the middle. This is typical of the Renaissance layout, which emphasizes beauty, perfection, and geometry.

A stroll amongst the cypress trees and grottoes makes a refreshing break from all the sightseeing in Verona. You’ll also find a hedge maze here which is fun for kids (the boxwood hedges are too low to present much of a challenge to adults). You can also visit Apartamento 900 , the apartments of the family to whom these gardens belonged.

TIP: Although quite steep, it’s worth climbing the steps and paths to the upper tiers of the gardens for the panoramic views of the city.

Good to know: Giardino Giusti entrance fee is quite high for a rather small park and it is not included in the city pass. However, there are discounts for the Verona Card holders and also special family tickets.

Practical information: Giardino Giusti is open daily throughout the year except on Christmas day. See their website for more info.

17. Food, Wine & Vineyards

In addition to all the main sights and attractions in Verona, the city has a lot to offer for food and wine lovers too.

One of the best ways to get to know the local cuisine and try some traditional regional dishes in Verona is by joining one of the organized food tours . Cooking classes are also available.

This is the best-rated Verona food & wine tour that takes you to the main landmarks in the city too. If you rather just focus on food, check out this great value food tour with wine tasting .

If you are looking for a more hands-on experience, you can also opt for this popular cooking lesson or a gelato-making class . And if you are mostly interested in local wines (such as the world-famous Prosecco), you’ll find various wine-tasting experiences .

But if you have more time, I highly recommend joining a winery tour of the beautiful Valpolicella Valley just outside the city. Valpolicella is best known for its Recioto, Ripasso, and Amarone wines.

You can visit the Amarone Wine Trail by minivan with this very popular and highly-rated tour , or you can opt to visit the Amarone countryside with an e-bike tour .

Whatever you choose, it’s a great addition to the ‘regular’ sightseeing in Verona and will make your visit much more memorable.

Map of Verona attractions

To help you get a better idea of where everything is located, we created a map indicating all the main sights in Verona mentioned in this article.

Below, you can find additional suggestions for places to see near Verona , and also some practical tips and information for your visit to the city.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Where to stay

While many tourists just visit Verona for a day, we highly recommend spending at least a night or two in the city. If you can attend an opera performance, staying here is a must-do! But also otherwise, there are plenty of things to do in Verona to make a longer stay worthwhile! ( See also our recommendations for the best things to do near Verona below! )

We recommend staying in the historic city center . In the high season, accommodation prices of most of the mid-range hotels in the old town tend to be quite similar. But, of course, a lot depends on your exact travel dates and any deals the hotels might be offering…

Check out the beautiful Hotel Milano & SPA***S with the best rooftop terrace in Verona. It’s one of the top picks in the heart of the old town, and offers a great price/ quality/ location ratio.

Great value on a slightly lower budget is Hotel Firenze , about 10 minutes walk from the Arena.

Some of the best places to visit near Verona

In addition to the above-mentioned Valpolicella valley with vineyards and wineries just near Verona, there are many other amazing places to visit in this part of Italy.

Soave Castle is just about 30 min drive from Verona, and the famous Lake Garda as well. It’s well worth seeing, even if you only have time for one or two of the best places in Lake Garda . There’s a very popular day tour that takes you to the southern side of Lake Garda from Verona.

If you are visiting Verona with kids in summer and have a day to spare, you may want to visit Gardaland amusement park as well.

If you have a car, you could easily spend a few days touring around Lake Garda too. In that case, you may also want to visit Santuario Madonna della Corona . This picturesque hillside church is located just about 50 minutes drive from Verona. You could easily combine a visit here with a relaxing dip in the pools of Aquardens Thermal Baths overlooking Valpolicella hills, just about 20 minutes drive from Verona.

Other places to visit nearby include the beautiful Trentino region and the famous Dolomite mountains . If you are visiting Verona in summer, it’s well worth planning a few days extra to see these beautiful regions!

Also the most famous Italian cities like Venice , Milan , and Bologna are just a short trip from Verona. You can easily visit Venice for a day from Verona (by train or by car ). And don’t forget Lake Como , one of the most beautiful places in Northern Italy!

FAQ – Visit Verona

Verona is located in the Veneto region in northern Italy. It’s just a short drive from Lake Garda and about 1-1.5 hours by train from Venice, Bologna, or Milan. Located about halfway between Venice and Milan, Verona is a wonderful addition to any Italian trip itinerary.

Yes, absolutely, Verona is well worth a visit. It’s one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, offering a great mix of historic sites, cultural attractions, and a romantic, laid-back atmosphere. If visiting in summer, try to see an opera performance at the Arena di Verona, and it will become one of the most memorable trips ever!

Verona is world-known for its Arena, one of the largest ancient Roman amphitheaters built in 30 AD and still in use today! Verona is also famous as the city of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” and also as one of the towns where Italy’s greatest poet Dante Alighieri lived and worked on his masterpiece “The Divine Comedy”.

While you can see a few of the main landmarks of Verona in half a day, we recommend at least one full day for the city. If you want to actually visit all of Verona’s tourist attractions and enjoy the cozy atmosphere of this romantic city, plan two days for Verona. If you also want to visit Valpolicella valley and/or take a day trip to Lake Garda, you can easily spend 3-4 days in Verona.

If you have limited time in Verona and can only see the absolute ‘musts’, be sure not to miss Arena di Verona, Piazza Bra, and Piazza delle Erbe. Torre dei Lamberti and Casa di Giulietta are also among the top landmarks that are well worth seeing, even if just from the outside.

Yes, you can easily visit Verona by car. There are several of convenient parking garages close to the old town, where you can leave your car for a day. We used and recommend the big underground parking garage Cittadella just outside the city gates and 5 minutes walk to the Arena. It’s also just outside the ZTL (limited traffic zone) where you can’t drive as a tourist. I indicated this parking on our map above. You can also use this parking if you are staying in the city for a night or two.

So, this is our guide to some of the very best places to see and things to do in Verona, Italy.

Verona’s romantic atmosphere and ancient attractions make it a unique and special destination to visit, one of the best places in Italy .

I hope that this guide helps you plan a more memorable trip to Verona, and inspires you to spend more time here. (And yes, I know I say this for many places in Italy, but it’s so worth it!)

Have a great time in Verona and enjoy every moment in this beautiful city!

READ ALSO: Italy Itinerary (how to see the ‘musts’ – including Verona – in about 2 weeks)

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Photos: personal collection and Depositphotos.com

More travel inspiration for Italy:

• Hidden Gems of Rome
• Most Beautiful Towns of Lake Como
• Best Towns in Tuscany
• Amalfi Coast Itinerary
• Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast
• How to Visit Cinque Terre
• Bellagio, Lake Como
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• … For more inspiration and destination guides, please check our Italy travel blog .

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Luke Thomas

Sunday 17th of July 2022

Thank you for such a fantastic post this has been so useful for planning our trip this summer. When you say we can’t show knees in the churches in religious sites does that mean men can’t wear shorts and I have to wear trousers? given we are in Italy in August we weren’t planning on taking any trousers at all. Thanks for your help.

Tuesday 19th of July 2022

@Jurga, 😂 brilliant thank you 😊

Hi Luke, this is a common rule for visiting religious sites everywhere in Italy. Usually, big popular places have some covers for rent or to borrow available at the entrance, but this is won't be the case everywhere. In general, this rule is a bit flexible too and depends on the people working at each place. They just want to avoid people showing up there with clothing that hardly covers anything. If your shorts are almost up to your knees and you wear decent t-shirts and footwear, I think it should be ok for most places. Or you can get a pair of light linnen pants depening on what exactly you plan to visit. For women, I'd normally recommend to just pack a big light shawl or a sarong (something like this) and tight it around the waist when needed. Nobody says men can't do that as well ;). My husband once had to buy funny elephant pants in Thailand in order to visit some religious places there and it made for some fun pictures. :) Enjoy your trip!

Sunday 3rd of April 2022

🎉🎉🎉🎉🌟🌟🌟👏👏 i am totally convinced, i bookmarked this article 👍

Thursday 14th of April 2022

You'd love it, Michael!

Love the Verona article and the pictures. Thanks. P.S. Will you send me similar information about Modena.

Hi Mercedes, unfortunately, we have never been to Modena, so I can't help you with that one.

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With its wealth of Roman sites and streets of pink-hued medieval buildings, the irresistible city of Verona has more in the way of historic attractions than any other place in the Veneto except Venice itself. Unlike Venice, though, it's not a city overwhelmed by the tourist industry, important though that is to the local economy. Verona is the largest city of the mainland Veneto, and its economic success is largely due to its position at the crossing of the major routes from Germany and Austria to central Italy and from the west to Venice and Trieste.

Brief history of Verona

Set within the low amphitheatre that the wide River Adige has carved out of the hills, Verona conveys a sense of ease that you don't find in the region's other cities. As you walk past the great Roman arena, or along the embankments or over the bridges that span the broad curves of the Adige, you'll be struck by the spaciousness of the city. With cars and buses barred from many of the squares and narrow medieval lanes of the historic centre, this is a city that invites dawdling.

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Verona’s initial development as a Roman settlement came about from its geographical position straddling the main lines of communication. A period of decline after the disintegration of the Roman Empire was followed by revival under the Ostrogoths, who in turn were succeeded by the Franks. By the twelfth century Verona had become a city-state, and in the following century it approached the zenith of its independent existence with the rise of the Scaligers. The ruthless Scaligers were at the same time energetic patrons of the arts, and many of Verona’s finest buildings date from their rule.

With the fall of their dynasty a time of upheaval ensued, Gian Galeazzo Visconti of Milan emerging in control of the city. Absorption into the Venetian Empire came in 1405, and Verona was governed from Venice until the arrival of Napoleon. Verona’s history thereafter shadowed that of Venice.

Top image: Juliet's Balcony in Verona, Italy © Manuel Hurtado/Shutterstock

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26 BEST Things to do in Verona, Italy + Where to Stay

Hugging the banks of the Adige River in northern Italy, it’s not hard to fall in love with Verona with all her impressive artwork, ancient architecture, rich history, and stunning skyline. 

Italy’s fair Verona extends beyond her fame for being the city of Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers. Verona was nicknamed piccola Roma (little Rome ) thanks to its importance during the Roman times, Verona was established as a Roman settlement in 89 BC. With its long history and so much on offer, I’ve gathered 26 best things to do in Verona.

My top money-saving travel tip when visiting Verona is to pick up a VeronaCard . With the VeronaCard you get either free or reduced fee entrance to top attractions, monuments and churches plus discounted tickets to selected concerts, opera and theatre productions and free bus travel. For a full list of what’s included and to buy your Verona Card, click here.

Haven’t decided where to stay? Don’t miss my guide on where to stay in Verona .

Map of 26 Best Things to do in Verona

To help you locate each of the magnificent viewpoints in Verona that I’ve included in this list, I’ve created a handy Google map you can use. Got a question? Just ask me in the comments below.

Watch my Verona video guide here

1. piazza bra.

Fun fact: A marble liston is a Venetian word used in various cities of the Veneto region. The term liston refers to a long marble slab used for paving the streets. The term far el liston , means “to walk around the square”.

Tips for visiting Piazza Bra

• Piazza Bra is fully pedestrianised so it’s a safe place to wander around without having to dodge traffic.

Address: Piazza Bra, 1, 37121 Verona

Opening hours: 

• Cafés and restaurants open early for breakfast around 8am and close around 2am at night.
• Shops open from 9.30am and close at 9pm.

2. Roman Arena (Arena di Verona)

The Roman Arena is located in the lively Piazza Bra full or bars, restaurants and a park giving you plenty of vantage points from which to enjoy one of Italy’s largest amphitheatres.

Thanks to its elliptical shape, the Roman Amphitheatre has excellent acoustics, which is why in summer it hosts the biggest names in the music and opera and seats up to 30,000 patrons on its various orders of tiers. The high quality production and performances are unforgettable making it one of the absolute best things to do in Verona. 

Verona’s Roman Amphitheatre wasn’t always a happy place though. At the centre of the area floor gladiators would fight for life against wild beasts. Sadly, thousands of souls died inside these pink-tinged marble walls. 

Tips for visiting the Roman Arena

• Tuesday – Sunday: 8:30 – 19:30 (the ticket office closes at 18:30)
• Monday: 13:30 – 19:30 (the ticket office closes at 18:30)
• Free entrance & Priority Entrance with the Verona Card
• Adult: 10,00 €
• Reduced:  7,50 €
• Groups (min 15 pers): 7,50 €
• Schools and 8-14 years old: 1,00 €
• 0-7 years old: Free 

Visit the official Arena website to buy opera tickets

3. Palazzo Barbieri

Tips for visiting the Palazzo Barbieri

Address: Piazza Bra, 1, 37121 Verona Opening hours:  The Palace is not open to visitors, but it can be admired from the outside. Admission: Free to wander around the exterior.

4. Palazzo della Gran Guardia

The palace was designed by Domenico Curtoni at the start of the 17th century, but it wasn’t completed until Giuseppe Barbieri came along in the mid-19th century.

The Palazzo della Gran Guardia is one of Verona’s most important historic buildings. It was intended to be used as a covered space for soldiers to train in during bad weather and was also used as barracks for the occupying Austrian Army forces during Italy’s first struggle for independence in 1848. 

Today, Palazzo della Gran Guardia is a venue for exhibitions and cultural events including art shows and Vinitaly, Verona’s wine conference. 

Tips for visiting Palazzo della Gran Guardia

• Its interior is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

Address: Piazza Bra, 1, 37121 Verona Opening hours:  Palazzo della Gran Guardia is only open to the public during exhibitions or other events. Admission: Prices vary with each event.

5. Portoni della Bra

Tips for visiting Portoni della Bra

Address: Piazza Bra, 1, 37121 Verona Opening hours: All day, every day Admission: Free 

6. Porta Borsari

Porta Borsari was located on Via Postumia which served as the Decumano Massimo (the main east-west street) a major Roman road. It was the city’s main entrance, which is why is it’s so richly decorated. 

The gate’s original Roman name was Porta Iovia, because of its proximity to a small temple dedicated to Jupiter lustralis.

In the Middle Ages it was renamed Porta di San Zeno, while its current name derives from the guard soldiers which were paid the dazio (Latin bursarii).

Tips for visiting Porta Borsari

Address: Corso Porta Borsari, 57A, 37121 Verona Opening hours: All day, every day Admission: Free 

7. Castelvecchio and Castelvecchio Museum and Gallery 

The Castlevecchio was the greatest engineering achievement for the Scaliger dynasty who built the moated fortress to protect the family in case of revolt. 

Later, Castlevecchio suffered major damage by Napoleon and bombings in WWII but was restored and reinvented by architect Carlo Scarpa.

Today, the castle is now home to the Castelvecchio Museum and Gallery which documents the history of the castle through a series of medieval artefacts, factual displays and a diverse collection of paintings by Pisanello, Giovanni Bellini, Tiepolo, and Veronese. Included in your ticket, is access to the two guard towers which give excellent elevated views of the city and river.

Tips for visiting Castelvecchio Museum and Gallery

• The bridge is fully pedestrianised so there’s no traffic to dodge
• The museum is partially accessible to wheelchairs and strollers via an internal elevator.

Address: Corso Castelvecchio, 2, 37121 Verona

• Tuesday – Sunday: 8:30 – 19:30 (the ticket office closes at 18:45)
• Monday: 13:30 – 19:30 (the ticket office closes at 18:45)

Admission: 

• Free entrance with the Verona Card or persons with disabilities
• Adult: 6,00 € 
• Reduced: 4,50 €
• Schools and 8-14 years old: 1,00  €
• First Sunday of the month between October and March: 1,00 €

Visit the official Castelvecchio website for more information

8. Castelvecchio Bridge (Ponte Scaligero)

One of the best things to do in Verona is to wander across the bridge itself and enjoy the views of the Adige River by peeping through its series of crenellated battlements. Don’t forget to admire the bridge from the river bank. The best view is from the north side looking back towards both the fort and bridge.

Tips for visiting Castelvecchio Bridge

Address: Corso Castelvecchio,2, 37121 Verona Opening hours: All day, every day Admission: Free 

9. Arco dei Gavi

In 1805, French troops dismantled  Arco dei Gavi in order to enlarge the north-eastern entrance gate to the town. By 1932, the monument was re-assembled next to Castelvecchio where it stands today.

Tips for visiting Arco dei Gavi

• Arco dei Gavi looks especially beautiful at night when all lit up.

Address:   Corso Cavour, 37121 Verona Opening hours: All day, every day Admission: Free 

10. Piazza delle Erbe

Today, Piazza delle Erbe is surrounded by important buildings including the Torre dei Lamberti, the Casa dei Giudici (“Judges’ Hall”) and the ornately frescoed Mazzanti Houses. 

On the western side of the piazza is stunning Baroque Palazzo Maffei, decorated by statues of Greek gods including Jupiter, Venus, Apollo, Hercules and Minerva. Located directly in front of Palazzo Maffei is a white marble column with a St. Mark’s Lion adorning the top, a symbol of the Republic of Venice . 

On the southern end is the Casa dei Mercanti (“House of the Merchants”, also known as Domus Mercatorum), now the seat of the Banca Popolare di Verona. 

The masterpiece of the Piazza delle Erbe is its fountain, built in 1368 by Cansignorio della Scala with a Roman statue called Madonna Verona, dating back to 380 AD. 

Tips for visiting Piazza delle Erbe

• The centre of the square is pedestrianised to the east with a quiet road reaching around the west side.
• Piazza Erbe, 16, 37121 Verona 
• Located between Via Mazzini and the Corso Porta Borsari.

Opening hours:  

• Cafés and restaurants open between 07:00 – 09:00 to as late as 02:00. 
• Shops open between 09:30-10:00 to 19:00-19:00 and may close for lunch between 13:00-15:00.

Admission: Free 

11. Torre dei Lamberti

Torre dei Lamberti continues to dominate the skyline standing 83 metres tall and offers gorgeous panoramic views from its bell tower.

Tips for visiting Torre dei Lamberti

• A lift is available to whisk you up two-thirds of the way before walking up the remaining flights of stairs
• The ticket includes a visit to the Modern Art Gallery (closed Mondays).

Address: Via della Costa, 2, 37121 Verona 

• Monday – Friday: 10:00 – 18:00
• Saturday – Sunday: 11:00 – 19:00
• Public holiday – 11:00 – 19:00
• Last admission 45 minutes before closing

Admission:  

• Adult: 8,00 €
• Reduced: 5,00 €
• Children 0-7 years: Free
• Monday: 5.00 € (due to Modern Art Gallery being closed)
• Schools and 8-14 years old (Monday only): 1,00 € 

Visit the official Torre dei Lamberti website for more information

12. Piazza dei Signori / Piazza Dante 

The piazza is flanked by important historical and architectural important buildings, such as the  Loggia del Consiglio (the former city hall), the Palace of the Government, and the Domus Nova. 

Dante Alighieri, born in Florence in 1265, was a poet and writer and just like Shakespeare is to English , Dante is considered the father of the Italian language. In the late Middle Ages, most poetry was written in Latin, which made is only accessible to the most educated readers. Dante defended the everyday vernacular and began writing in his Tuscan dialect, thus making his work widely accessible. His most famous piece is epic poem The Divine Comedy . This highly unorthodox choice set a precedent that was later adopted by other Italian writers including Petrarch and Boccaccio. 

A statue of Dante stands here because when he was 39, Dante come to live in Verona for seven years after he was exiled from Florence. He was taken in and hosted by Bartolomeo and Cangrande della Scala of the ruling Scaligere family. 

Two other noteworthy statues here are dedicated to Scipione Maffei and Girolamo Fracastoro. 

Girolamo Fracastoro was a doctor, poet, and astronomer, and is depicted wearing a Roman toga and holding a sphere representing the world. According to legend, the sphere will fall on the head of the first true gentleman who passes underneath him.

Tips for visiting Piazza dei Signori

• Piazza dei Signori is pedestrianised with the odd passing of local authority.
• The square has a few cafés and restaurants where you can dine al fresco or inside.

Address: Piazza dei Signori, 37121 Verona Opening hours: Cafés and restaurants open from 10:00 until late Admission: Free 

13. Scaliger Tombs (Arche Scaligere)

The first tomb built here is that of Cangrande I, the most famous of the family dynasty and the protector of the poet Dante and whose tomb is attached to the exterior church wall. This name cangrande means “big dog” in Italian, which is why there is a statue made in his likeness on horseback decorated with harnessed dogs.

Two angels watch over the tomb of Mastino II, and Cansignorio’s tomb is the most ornate with warrior saints protecting him.  The final two tombs are for Alberto II without a canopy and Giovanni, whose tomb is also built into the church wall.  

Tips for visiting Scaliger Tombs

• While the Scaliger tombs can be seen from behind the ironwork fence for free, you can pay a small entrance fee to see the monuments up close. 

Address: Via Arche Scaligere, 37121 Verona

• Monday: Closed
• Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 – 13:00 and 15:00 – 18:00
• Free entrance with the Verona Card  
• Entrance: 1,00 € 

14. Casa di Giulietta and Juliet’s Balcony

Shakespeare took inspiration for his famous play from a true story of family rivalry which happened in Verona during the 1300s. Their names were Montecchi and Capuleti (from which we get the Capulets and Montagues) and at the time were genuine rival political factions.

Shakespeare wasn’t the first to write about the love story between Romeo and Juliet. Luigi Da Porto was the first author of the celebrated story in 1500.

Juliet’s 13th century house was indeed that which belonged to the Dal Cappello family and today houses a small museum with a collection of paintings, prints, and ceramics. Added years later (for the benefit of fans of the play) is Juliet’s balcony, the supposed location of the famous scene where Romeo hails Juliet from her balcony.

The balcony overlooks a small courtyard where a bronze statue of Juliet dating from 2014 stands, replacing the original from 1969 which is now located in the museum’s atrium.

Lining the walls of the entrance to the courtyard are thousands of post it notes covered in declarations of love. 

Some 50,000 letters addressed to Juliet are sent to Verona each from those seeking advice from Shakespeare’s romantic heroine. A group of volunteers set up The Juliet Club to act as “secretaries of Juliet,” and respond to these letters, thus keeping alive the magic and romance of one of the most powerful love stories in history.

Tips for visiting Juliet’s House

• Juliet’s House gets very busy during high season, I recommend visiting first thing in the morning to avoid the crowds and have a less crowded experience inside the museum.
• You can visit the courtyard where you can see Juliet’s statue and balcony for free. To access the balcony, this is only possible by purchasing a ticket to the exhibition inside.
• If you want to leave a love notes on the walls outside, you’ll need to bring your own pen, paper and adhesive.
• Don’t forget to rub the right breast of Juliet’s statue to bring good luck.

Address: Via Cappello, 23, 37121 Verona

• Monday: 13:30 – 19:30
• Tuesday – Sunday: 08:30 – 19:30
• Last entrance: 18.45 
• Free entrance with the Verona Card
• Adult: 6,00 €
• Groups (min 15 pers): 4,50 €

Visit the official Casa di Giullietta website here for information

Going to Verona with someone special? Tell them how you feel and learn how to say ‘I love you’ in Italian  

15. Casa di Romeo (Romeo’s house)

The house looks like the Della Scala palaces, being both Romantic and Gothic in style. On the façade of the house is a plaque (unfortunately now covered in graffiti) with an inscription in both Italian and English dedicated to the memory of the two young lovers. It reads: “Oh Dov’è Romeo?… Taci, ho perduto me stesso: io non sono quì e non son Romeo, Romeo è altrove” (Act 1, scene 1). ” Tut, I have lost myself, I am not here: This is not Romeo, he’s some other where.”

Tips for visiting Romeo’s House

• The house itself cannot be visited but you can get closer by visiting the restaurant located within its walls.

Address: Via Arche Scaligere, 2, 37121 Verona Opening hours:  Closed to the public. This is a private residence so please be respectful.

16. St. Zeno Maggiore Church (Basilica di San Zeno)

Even if you’re not a huge fan of Romeo and Juliet, Basilica of San Zeno is definitely worth visiting. Located on the west side of the River Adige, Basilica of San Zeno is one of the most important religious buildings in Verona, famous for its Romanesque architecture and beautiful rose window (called “Wheel of Fortune”). It is also home to the famous triptych by Mantegna depicting the Madonna with Child and Saints.

Both the Basilica and the adjoining Benedictine monastery were built in honour of St. Zeno, the patron saint of Verona, who died in 380 AD.

Tips for visiting Basilica di San Zeno 

• Visitors should cover their shoulders and knees before entering the church.

Address: Piazza San Zeno, 2, 37123 Verona

• Monday – Saturday 08:30 – 18:00 (luglio e agosto fino 18.30)
• Sunday and religious holidays 12.30 – 18.00
• Monday – Saturday 10.00 – 13.00 and 13.30 – 17.00
• Sunday and religious holidays 12.30 – 17:30
• Last entry is 15 minutes before closing time
• Adult: 3,00 €
• 0-11 years: Free
• Schools: 1,00 € 
• Group (min. 20 people): 2,00 € 

17. Juliet’s Tomb at San Francesco al Corso Monastery 

Today, the old monastery has been transformed into the Museum of Frescoes G.B. Cavalcaselle. The museum houses frescos from Veronese buildings dating from Medieval times through the sixteenth century as well as nineteenth-century sculptures.

If you’re so inclined you can even join the thousands of people who have come here from around the world to get married in one of the cosy halls of the museum.

Tips for visiting Juliet’s Tomb

Address: Via Luigi da Porto, 5, 37122 Verona

• Last entry: 18:30
• Adult: 4,50 €
• Reduced: 5,00 € (over 60, students)

18. Ponte Nuovo

Crossing the Adige River to the east of the city is Ponte Nuovo. The attraction here isn’t the bridge itself but the lovely perspective it provides of the historic centre.

Tips for visiting Ponte Nuovo

• This is a lovely place to take a stroll down at dusk when the street lamps illuminate the path and side streets towards Ponte Pietra on the west bank.

Address: Ponte Nuovo, 37121 Verona VR, Italy

19. Giardino Giusti

Giardino Giusti is an oasis of greenery and the only sixteenth-century Italian-style garden in Verona which has attracted the likes of Goethe and Mozart.

The gardens are made up of 8 different squares with a unique design and a central fountain or decoration. There is also a hedge maze and series of grottoes landscaped into the hillside.

Tips for visiting Giardino Giusti

Address: Via Giardino Giusti, 2, Verona

• Monday – Sunday: 09.00 – 19.00
• Closed on 25 December
• Reduced entrance fee with the Verona Card  
• Persons with disabilities: Free
• Reduced: 7,00 € (over 60, students, groups of over 15 people)

Visit the official Giardino Giusti website for more information

20. Roman Amphitheater (Il Teatro Romano)

Built on the hills of St. Peter in the middle of Augustinian age, this spectacular theatre was lost over centuries of various civil and religious buildings being built over its ruins. It wasn’t until  1834 that the rich Veronese merchant, Andrea Monga, bought the houses in the area and set about archaeological excavations which unearthed the original marble floor of the orchestra pit and rows of stone seats. 

The only damage the Roman Theatre suffered was to part of the seating when the Church of San Siro was built on the site during the 10th century. 

Located on the hill above the theatre is the former Convent of San Gerolamo which houses an Archaeological Museum. Here you’ll find a wealth of Roman artefacts  found throughout the Verona area including coins, mosaics and sculptures. On top of that, the museum has beautiful views over the river and city landscape.

Today, this Roman Theatre is once again open to the public hosting open-air concerts, opera, and ballet from early June to the end of July seating up to 15,000 people.

Tips for visiting Roman Amphitheater

• During the summer, the Roman Theatre is wheelchair accessible via gangways. During winter, those touring the theatre and gain access via Vicolo Botte. 
• The Archaeological Museum is not wheelchair accessible.
• A tour of the theatre and museum is a must for those interested in Roman history.

Address: Regaste Redentore, 2, 37129 Verona

• Monday: 13.30 – 19.30
• Tuesday – Sunday: 08.30 – 19.30 
• Last entrance: 18:30
• Closing times may vary if there is a performance on in the evening.
• Adult: 4,50 € 
• Groups (15+ people): 3,00 €
• 8-14 years: 1,00 €
• 0-7 years: Free
• Admission includes audioguide

Visit the official Teatro Romano Summer festival website for more information

21. Verona Cathedral (Complesso della Cattedrale Duomo)

Consecrated in 1187, Verona Cathedral is one of the oldest religious buildings in Verona. The Cathedral is the central structure of a complex of buildings which include San Giovanni in Fonte, Santa Elena, and the Canon’s Cloister. 

Tips for visiting Verona Cathedral

• The cathedral is closed during Mass.
• The main church is wheelchair accessible; the Baptistery and secondary churches have steps at the entrances.
• As with all churches, visitors should cover their shoulders and knees before entering.

Address: Piazza Duomo / Piazza Vescovado, 37121

• Monday – Saturday 10:30 – 17:30 
• Sunday and religious holidays 13.30 – 17:30
• Monday – Saturday 10.00 – 17.00
• Adult: 3,00 € 
• Groups (min. 20 people): 2,00 €
• 0-11 years: 1,00 €
• Schools: 1,00 €

Visit the official Verona Cathedral website for more information

22. Basilica of Saint Anastasia

The interior features a richly decorated vaulted ceiling with ornate side chapels. Don’t miss 15th-century artist Pisanello’s famous fresco located above the entrance to the Pellegrini chapel.

Tips for visiting Basilica of Saint Anastasia

• Free entrance if you’re attending mass.

Address: Piazza Santa Anastasia, 37121 Verona

• Monday – Saturday 10:30 – 18:00 
• Sunday and religious holidays 13:30 – 18:00
• Sunday and religious holidays 13:00 – 17:00

Visit the official Basilica of Saint Anastasia website for more information

23. Ponte Pietra

A lovely want to enjoy this part of Verona is by getting a gelato at the local hotspot Gelateria Ponte Pietra Verona located on Via Ponte Pietra, 13 and taking a stroll across the bridge. Take your time to admire the buildings lining the river bank before heading north across the bridge and walking along the river bank to the west. 

Tips for visiting Ponte Pietra

• This is a lovely spot to sit by the water and watch the world go by. The colours here are sunset are epic!

Address: Ponte Pietra, 37121

24. Take the funicular to Castle San Pietro 

Tips for visiting Funicolare di Castel San Pietro

• Pack wine, cheese, and panini and do as the locals do and head here for an aperitivo as you watch the sunset. This place is absolute perfection.
• The funicular is located at Via Santo Stefano, 12, 37129
• Alternatively, you can go by foot by taking the stairs which start at Scalinata Castel S. Pietro.

Funicular Opening hours: 

• Monday – Sunday: 10:00 – 21:00
• Monday – Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00
• Closed: January 1st, December 25th
• The ticket office closes 15 minutes before closing time.
• Return ticket: 2,00 €
• One way: 1,00 € 
• Groups (min. 15 people): 1,50 €
• 0-10 / over 65 years: 1,00 €
• 0-1 year old / persons with disabilities / teachers / tour guides: Free

Visit the official Funicolare di Castel San Pietro website for more information

25. Take a day trip to Sirmione on Lake Garda

Why not spend the day relaxing by Lago di Garda aka Lake Garda fringed by villages, mountains, vineyards and citrus groves. Lake Garda is only 40 minutes from Verona making it incredibly close, so it would be a shame to miss out on visiting Italy’s largest lake while you’re in town.

One of the closest and picturesque spots to Verona on Lake Garda is the town of Sirmione where you’ll find Castello Scaligero (also known as the Rocca Scaligera or the Rocca di Sirmione), a 13th century fortress built by the Scaligere family. It was built over the top of the ruins of an ancient Roman fortress is one of the most complete and well-conserved castles in Italy. The castle sits at the narrowest point of the peninsula and protected the Medieval town which was accessed by crossing one of the castle’s bridges and passing through the city gate.

Also in Sirmione is the Roman Villa of the poet Catullus, known also as “Grotte di Catullo”, lots of lovely beaches some smaller than others, pretty narrow alleys, and loads of cafes and restaurants. 

Tips for visiting Lake Garda

• To reach the eastern side of Lake Garda, “Riviera degli Ulivi” you can take the local ATV local bus.
• Bus lines from Verona are 162, 163, 185. To go further, to the northern part of the lake, you can take busses 483 and 484. For more bus information and times, visit ATV.verona.com
• If you don’t want to bother with public transport, join this Sirmione and Lake Garda small group tour or this full-day Lake Garda tour .
• 08:30 until 19:00. Closed Mondays.
• Monday, Wednesday – Saturday: 8.30-19.30
• Tuesday: Closed
• Sunday: 8.30-14.00
• Monday, Wednesday – Saturday: 8.30-17.00
• The ticket office closes 45 minutes before closing time.
• Full: 6,00 €
• Ticket includes entrance to Grotte di Catullo and Villa Romana di Desenzano
• Full: 8,00 €
• Reduced: 4,00 € (Europeans between 18-25)

Visit the official Castello Scaligero di Sirmione for more information

Visit the official Grotte di Catullo for more information

26. Take a day trip from Verona

Santuario Madonna della Corona

Verona is located in an ideal spot from which to venture out and visit any of the many wonderful cities and locations in the area. In under an hour you can be bathing your feet in Lake Garda, shopping in the super chic city of Milan, savouring local wine and Parmesan cheese and Parma ham in the Parmigiano-Reggiano factory in Parma, wandering the canals of Venice , seeing the colourful houses of Burano , or eating a real spaghetti Bolognese in Bologna. 

Getting to any of these places is super easy. Search for and book your train tickets using either Trenitalia , or for a more luxurious experience and faster commute, book with Italo. P.S. Don’t forget to validate your ticket before travelling! 

For something closer to home, here are some top-rated day tours that will simplify your travel plans.

• Wine tasting experience and guided tour at Villa Mosconi Bertani in Verona
• Visit the beautiful medieval Soave Borgo for a Wine tasting tour
• Join this Dolomites small-group day trip with Lunch
• Gardaland Amusement Park: Skip-the-line ticket
• Verona food walking tour with wine tasting
• Risotto and Pasta Cooking Class
• Spend the day in Parco Giardino Sigurtà , voted the most beautiful park in Italy in 2013.
• Compare the best car rental prices here or catch a train and visit Santuario Madonna della Corona (pictured above) that clings to the rising mountains 774 meters above sea level, overlooking the valley of the Adige river.

Watch my vlog on the best things to do in Verona

How to get to Verona from the airport

Getting to Verona city centre is very easy. Look out for the big blue shuttle bus at the front of the terminal. This will take your to the main strain station, Verona Porta Nuova. Tickets cost €6 and can be bought from the driver. Only cash is accepted.  The journey is takes 10 minutes or so.

From Verona Porta Nuova station, take either b us 11, 12, 13 towards Piazza Bra and alight there. From there you can walk to your accommodation relatively easily. Bus tickets must be purchased from the ticket machine for €2.

Getting around Verona

Verona is a very walkable city and everything can be reached by foot. With your VeronaCard  public transportation is free so you can always use it to catch the bus and travel the length of the city more quickly if you only have a short time.

Where to stay in Verona

When it comes to accommodation, Verona has something for everyone on any budget. When you’re ready to book, use my special link and get 10% of your booking back . Win-win!   Here are some of the top-rated hotels to choose from in Verona.

B&B Primavera — Just because you’re on a budget, doesn’t mean you can’t be in a central location. Located less than 5 minutes from Verona Arena, B&B Primavera is the perfect budget accommodation. The rooms are clean and well-furnished and decoration, which is rare when it comes to budget hotels. 

Check room rates and book your stay at B&B Primavera

Check room rates and book your stay at Hotel Bologna here

Hotel Milano & Spa — What could be more luxurious or special that a stay at Hotel Milano. Their most famous feature is their rooftop jacuzzi which overlooks Verona Arena. I really want to stay here but they were fully booked, for obvious reasons! Don’t miss your chance, book your room well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Check room rates and book your stay at the Hotel Milano & Spa

Need more options don’t miss my complete guide on where to stay in verona ., don’t be treated like a tourist. learn italian with my 80/20 method.

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Travel Guide for Verona, Italy

See the arena and other attractions like Juliette's Balcony

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Verona is a popular tourist destination in the Veneto Region of Italy, on the Milano-Venice train line, 70 miles west of Venice . There is a small airport just outside of Verona. (Locate Verona on a map of the Veneto .) Lake Garda is nearby. Other nearby towns worth a visit are Cremona , Brescia , and Vincenza. 

What to See

• Arena di Verona : A 2000-year-old Roman Arena and it's still going strong. The opera stage is the largest in the world. In the summer months, the arena hosts opera and other performances. Make sure you get tickets early. A good source of tickets and a performance calendar is found on Select Italy's Arena de Verona (book tickets direct with Select Italy).
• 2 Bridges (ponti): Visit the Ponte Scaligero for a beautiful view, and the Ponte Pietra, a Roman-era bridge over the Adige river.
• Juliet's House (Casa de Giulietta) : Ok, we're not even sure that Shakespeare ever visited and the characters come from a story by Luigi da Porto of Vicenza but hey, you can rub the right breast of Juliet's statue for luck and take a picture of the balcony like everybody else, eh?
• Piazza dei Signori : A central square including a statue of Dante because he resided in Verona for a while.
• Piazza Delle Erbe : It used to be the Roman Forum but now it's a wonderful open-air market surrounded by historic buildings with frescoes and peppered with sculptures. Go here for a cheap meal. And if you desire to see Verona from above, head up the Lamberti tower to get 84 meters above Verona.
• Castelvecchio (the Old Castle): Beautiful Views and an interesting art collection inside.

Where to Stay

For those who prefer traditional hotel lodging, The four-star Hotel Accademia occupies a prime location between the Piazza Bra (where the Arena is located) and Piazza Delle Erbe, the cities marketplace, along with the Via Mazzini, the central shopping boulevard. If you are coming to Verona via rail, the three-star Hotel Verona gets excellent reviews.

Remember that lodging may be a little difficult during prime performances at the arena, so book ahead if you know the dates of your travel to Verona. For families, groups of friends, or for those who'd enjoy taking part in the life of the Veronese, a vacation rental house or apartment might be a better choice, especially if you're planning a stay of a week or more.

HomeAway lists some very interesting properties, including some in Juliet's Courtyard and one inside a 15th-century castle tower. Over 60 budget hotels and hostels are listed at HostelWorld.

What to Eat

Eating in this part of Italy can often involve polenta, horse and donkey meat, Pasta e Fasoi : pasta and beans, and stockfish (a dried, salted fish like salt cod). 

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VERONA TRAVEL GUIDE

Verona is one of the most beautiful cities in northern Italy and a perfect tourist destination for any traveller, as it combines a great historic centre with beautiful architecture, a riverside setting, and it’s a great base for visits to Lake Garda and the surrounding countryside.

This travel guide will help you plan the perfect trip to Verona by showing you the best attractions , things to do and places to visit including a tourist map , photos and an itinerary with day trip suggestions.

INTRODUCTION TO VERONA

Why visit VERONA

Verona is located in northern Italy, in the Veneto region and with the arrival of low-cost airlines at the local airport, it has become very popular in the last few years. It is a perfect destination for a city break and it can be combined with day trips to Lake Garda .

Verona is most famous for its association with Romeo and Juliet . Some of the best sights are the enormous Roman Arena , popular for its summer festival, Juliet’s house and the attractive old town centre with its medieval palazzi and churches . Verona is also a great place for food lovers.

BEST TIME TO VISIT VERONA

The best time to visit Verona is during the summer months , late spring or early autumn for the best weather, as it is warm and mostly sunny, although in the summer months there is always a chance of thunderstorms.

However, I will probably avoid the high season of July and August because everywhere tends to get very busy and accommodation is a lot more expensive and difficult to find. These months can also be unbearably hot.

April, May, early June, September or early October are probably the best months for sightseeing and day trips and you can enjoy the sights with comfortable temperatures, but without the large crowds.

If you want to enjoy the Verona Arena Opera Festival, you need to visit during the summer months (June to early September).

For a city break, Verona is a fine destination any time of the year, if you don’t mind the cold during the winter months.

HOW LONG TO STAY IN VERONA

Two days will be sufficient to cover most of the major attractions at a relaxed pace and get a feel for the city. This would give you enough time to explore the historic centre and enjoy the local cuisine in Verona’s restaurants.

You will need to stay longer if you want to combine your stay with day trips to the wider Veneto region.

Verona serves as a convenient base for exploring the surrounding region, including day trips to Lake Garda, Mantua, and the nearby wine regions of Valpolicella and Soave.

WHERE TO STAY IN VERONA

The best place to stay is in the historic old town of Verona with all the major sights within walking distance. However, accommodation in the old town can be very expensive, so a cheaper alternative is to stay closer to the Verona Train Station ( Stazione Porta Nuova ) or Borgo Milano area, a bit further away but still within 20-25min walking distance.

Best hotels in Verona

• Hotel Aurora : Perfectly located in the heart of Verona with the breakfast terrace overlooking Piazza Erbe.
• Hotel Milano & Spa : A trendy hotel next to the Verona Arena, with a jacuzzi on the roof and views of the Arena.
• Due Tori Hotel : Featuring a large roof terrace with views of the historic centre, this great hotel is a more luxurious option in the heart of the old town.
• Hotel Mastino : A 3-star hotel located within a 5-minute walk from the famous Verona Arena with good breakfast and affordable prices.
• Boutique Hotel Scalzi : One of the cheaper options close to the heart of Verona, a 10min walk from the Arena and 15min from the train station
• Hotel Piccolo : A 3-star hotel, 10min walk from the train station and 20min from the old town. Good value for money with a good breakfast. Also with free street parking.
• Hotel Leopardi : Located on Borgo Milano but only 25min walk from central Verona, this 4-star hotel is great value for money with great breakfast and private parking.
• Novo Hotel Rossi : Located close to the train station, it is a good option if you are planning to do day trips by train. It’s about 25min walk from the old town.

Click here to check and compare prices on accommodation for the whole city of Verona.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Entry requirements/visa.

No visas are required for visits up to 90 days for most nationalities.

EU citizens only need a photo ID to enter Italy. Citizens from the rest of Europe, the USA, Australia and Canada only need a passport . For full details check this website .

Opening hours

Shops : 9am –1pm & 3pm-7pm Monday to Saturday

Banks : 8.30am–1.30pm Monday to Friday

Restaurants : 12am–3pm & 7pm-11pm

Verona is generally a safe place and you shouldn’t encounter any issues during your stay. However, it’s worth being vigilant in crowded places and busy areas like city centres and train stations.

Travel Insurance

It’s always recommended to get travel insurance before you travel even if a destination like Italy shouldn’t pose any safety concerns. You never know what might happen; better to be fully covered in case of an accident or flight delays etc.

SafetyWing is a great choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads. Alternatively, you can use one of the price comparison websites for cheaper quotes.

Verona has a  moderately continental climate, with cold winters and hot summers.

January is the coldest month with an average temperature of 4°C and July is the warmest month (July) with an average temperature of 25°C.

Surprisingly the driest months are the winter months of January and February and the wettest are the summer months of June, July & August.

More information regarding the weather and average temperatures can be found here .

Travel Gear

For information on travel gear and what to pack click here .

Italian is the official language, which is one of the Romance languages that evolved from Latin . Most people speak some English.

Basic words:

• Hello – Ciao
• Goodbye – Ciao or Arriverdecci
• Yes = Si
• Thank you = Grazie
• You’re welcome = Prego
• Please = Per favore
• Excuse me = Mi scusi
• Good morning = Buongiorno
• Good evening = Buona sera
• Good night = Buona notte

The currency is the euro . Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s worth having some cash with you as many small shops, bakeries and cafes won’t accept cards. It’s also worth carrying some coins for public transport and parking machines.

The best way to get local currency is through an ATM that can be found in most areas.

Italy is cheaper than most of Western Europe, but prices tend to be higher during July and August, especially for accommodation.

Electricity

The power plugs and sockets in Italy are of type C & F (with two round pins) and less often type L . The voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.

Internet/Mobile Phone

If you are not a resident of an EU country that offers free roaming in the EU, in order to avoid high roaming costs, you can buy a local SIM card .

The 4 major mobile providers are Vodafone, Tim, Windtre & Iliad .

You can buy a prepaid sim card in one of the local mobile stores in the city of any of the above providers. It is easy and affordable, but you will need to carry your passport as proof of ID.

Also, Verona airport and most hotels offer free wif i.

HOW TO GET TO VERONA

Verona airport ( Valerio Catullo Airport ) is connected to only a few European countries, like the UK, France, Germany, Netherlands & Spain. There are mainly low-cost airlines operating, like Ryanair, Volotea, Eurowings & Wizz Air, so flights can be quite affordable, even in the summer months.

Getting from/to the airport

The airport is located about 12km to the southwest of the city of Verona and it can be reached by car, taxi or bus in about 15 to 20min.

The Verona Airlink (Line 199) connects the airport with the main station of Verona (Porta Nuova Station). The daily bus service is scheduled every 20 minutes and the bus ride takes 15min. Ticket: €6.00. From there you can take any of the buses that connect to the city centre using the same ticket (valid for 75min).

There are also taxis available outside the Arrivals Terminal, but the cost is considerably more expensive about €30 euros.

Alternatively, you can also rent a car in one of the rental offices at the airport. The airport is the best place to book if you haven’t done it before you arrive. However, booking a car is not really recommended if you only stay in Verona, unless you are planning to do day trips to Lake Garda and the surrounding countryside.

Verona is well connected with a good road network , bus and trains to the rest of Italy. Bus and train travel in Italy is very affordable and a good option if you want to explore nearby towns.

Rome2Rio is a good website for checking prices & times on train and bus travel .

HOW TO GET AROUND VERONA

I would only recommend hiring a car if you would like to explore Lake Garda as part of your visit to Verona as you can make the most of your day and enjoy this beautiful lake at your own pace without having to rely on the public transport timetables. The best place to rent a car is the airport if you haven’t done so before you arrive.

Car rental c an be quite expensive in high season ( €50 per day ). Better to book in advance before your travel for the best deals. Also in high season, there might be low availability and the prices can be much higher if you leave it until you arrive. Check the link below to book and compare car rental prices.

Most of the historic centre is closed to traffic, with the exception of residents, authorized vehicles and cars travelling to hotels. There are various paid car parks in the city. In most places, there are parking ticket machines that you can pay with coins, a credit card or through an app.

For free parking, you can use the Porta Palio car park (15min walk to the centre) or Piazzale Guardini by the train station (25min walk).

There is a radio taxi service 24 hours a day and is available in  Piazza Bra  and at the  Verona Porta Nuova railway station . Other taxi ranks can be found in Piazza delle Erbe, Piazza San Zeno, the Borgo Trento hospital and the Borgo Roma hospital.

Trains are run by Trenitalia and connect Verona with the rest of Italy. You can buy tickets at train stations or through this website . Prices are relatively cheap.

For a day trip to Lake Garda, you can take the train to either Peschiera del Garda or Desenzano del Garda .

The public transport service is provided by  ATV , which manages all the urban (Verona and neighbourhoods) and extra-urban (province of Verona) lines. Tickets can be purchased at ticket machines located at various bus stops, newsagents and on the bus. There is also the Ticket Bus Verona App .

There is a bicycle rental service,  Verona Bike , with stalls located throughout the centre and beyond. 

Verona Card

For those who want to discover the entire city of Verona, there is a card, the Verona Card , which allows you to visit the main monuments and museums of the city, such as the Arena, the Museum of Castelvecchio, Juliet’s house, the Torre dei Lamberti and many others. In addition, the Verona Card allows you to travel on buses within the city. It can be purchased at the ticket offices of monuments and museums, at the IAT office in Piazza Bra, at newsagents and tobacconists’ shops in the city centre. The card is available in two versions:  24 hours at the price of 20 euros and  48 hours at the price of 25 euros.

WHAT TO EAT & DRINK IN VERONA

There are many good Italian restaurants in the heart of Verona. A nice area for a meal and a drink is Piazza Bra overlooking the Arena. For a more authentic and typical Veronese meal, there are several good restaurants in various locations in the old town.

When dining in Italy, it’s common to enjoy multiple courses. A traditional Italian meal often includes antipasti (appetizers), primi piatti (first courses, usually pasta or risotto), secondi piatti (main courses, often meat or fish) and dolci (desserts).

It’s worth noting that while tipping is appreciated, it’s not common in Italian culture, and service charges may already be included in the bill.

Best restaurants in Verona

• Trattoria Pane e Vino : Typical Veronese restaurant in Via Giuseppe Garibaldi offering traditional dishes.
• La Taverna di Via Stella : Old fashioned tavern with traditional Veronese food.
• Tre Marchetti : Stylish restaurant with great dishes next to the Arena.
• Ristorante Vittorio Emanuele : Fine dining in an elegant setting by Piazza Bra.
• Hostaria Vecchia Fontanina : Authentic Veronese Cuisine.
• Osteria il Ciottolo : Good restaurant near Castelvecchio with Veronese dishes.

You can check the location of these restaurants on this map .

Local Cuisine

• Gnocchi : Potato dumplings made from potatoes, flour and eggs.
• Risotto all’Amarone : Risotto made from “vialone nano” rice from Verona and Amarone wine
• Pastisada de caval : A horse meat stew mixed with wine & vegetables
• Risotto with Tastasal : Risotto made of minced pork
• Pearà : A cooked sauce served with mixed boiled meat
• Polenta : A typical Veronese meal made of maize flour.
• Pandoro : A typical Christmas cake
• Nadalin : A star-shaped baked Christmas cake
• Wines from the area of ​​ Bardolino , Soave , Custoza , Valpolicella and the famous Amarone

VERONA ATTRACTIONS

BEST sights & things to do

• Verona Arena: This Roman amphitheatre is one of the world’s largest. It is located in Piazza Bra and is one of the most famous sights in Verona. It is open to the public for visits, but it is definitely worth attending an opera if you visit in the summer. The opera festival runs from mid-June to the beginning of September. Entry ticket: €10.
• Castelvecchio : This is the best preserved medieval castle of Verona. It is now a museum of fine medieval art, early Renaissance paintings, jewellery, armour and weaponry ( Museum of Castelvecchio ). Entry ticket: €6.
• Ponte Scaligero : Also known as Ponte di Castelvecchio is a beautiful medieval bridge connecting Castelvecchio with the north bank of the river. It is a popular place for a walk and to admire the views of the river and the castle from the opposite side.
• Castel San Pietro : A hilltop fortress that offers panoramic views over the whole city and the river from its terrace. It is free and it only takes about 10min to walk there by stairs or you can take the funicular (€2).
• Torre dei Lamberti : T orre dei Lamberti is located in Piazza dei Signori , part of Palazzo della Ragione. It is an impressive tower that provides great views over the city. It is usually very busy with long queues during high season. You can skip this and enjoy the even more impressive view over Verona from the Castel San Pietro. Entry ticket: €6.
• Piazza Erbe : This is the main square of the old town , and it is still used as a marketplace since medieval times, with stalls selling everything from herbs to fruits and food. There is a fountain in the centre and a column with a lion on the northern side in front of Palazzo Maffei and another column on the southern side.
• Piazza dei Signori : A medieval square with the statue of Dante in the centre linked to Piazza Erbe by the Arch of the Rib (Arco della Costa). It is surrounded by the Palazzo di Cansignorio , Palazzo della Ragione, Palazzo del Podestà and Loggia del Consiglio.
• Duomo: Verona’s impressive cathedral has a magnificent Romanesque portal and the interior has some beautiful frescoes . The cathedral complex also includes a cloister with the ruins of earlier churches: a baptistery and St. Elena . Entry ticket: €4.
• Juliet’s House : Casa di Giulietta is a restored 13th-century inn, but it is said that Juliet lived there and Romeo climbed this house’s balcony. The courtyard is free to visit and see the balcony, but it is usually so busy and overcrowded with tourists that it cannot be appreciated. There is a statue of Giulietta outside and it is considered good luck to touch her breasts . You can also visit the house museum but there is not much to see inside. It’s worth booking your ticket online if you want to visit the house, as it allows you to skip the line. Entry ticket: €6. You can also visit Casa di Romeo and Tomba di Giuletta .
• Ponte Pietra : Historic restored Roman arch bridge that provides nice views towards the old town and the Castle San Pietro.
• Piazza Bra: One of the main squares of Verona surrounded by the Arena, Palazzi and a great place for a walk, drink or a meal.
• San Zeno Maggiore : The basilica of San Zeno is located further away from the old town and therefore less visited, however it is one of the most beautiful Romanesque churches . It has an impressive facade with bronze door panels and a nave ceiling.
• Basilica of Santa Anastasia : Santa Anastasia is a beautiful Italian gothic church with some impressive 15th-century frescoes.
• San Fermo Maggiore : The Church of San Fermo is located on the banks of the Adige, near Ponte Navi. It is an example of Italian gothic style and consists of a lower and an upper church with some impressive frescoes .
• Teatro Romano & Museo Archaeologico : This Roman theatre is located on the east side of the river close to Ponte Pietra . The theatre is connected with a lift to the archaeological museum with exhibits of mosaics, pottery and glass.
• Giardino Giusti : This is an attractive Renaissance garden located to the east of the old town with some beautiful hedges and statues. Entry ticket: €10.
• Tombs of the Scaligeri : Scaligeri was the most powerful family that ruled Verona for over 100 years. Their tombs are located by the Church of Santa Maria Antica.
• Via Giuseppe Mazzini : A pedestrian street with designed shops.
• San Lorenzo : An attractive but lesser-known church of Verona.
• San Giorgio in Braida : A lovely domed Renaissance church by the river bank. It’s a nice setting that provides good views towards the castle and Verona’s skyline.

VERONA DAY TRIPS

Verona serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region. There are many great day trips you can take from Verona. Here are some of the best options:

• Desenzano del Garda : Desenzano del Garda is a charming town located on the southwestern shore of Lake Garda with a beautiful lakeside setting, an interesting old town, a medieval castle and some nice piazzas.
• Sirmione : This popular lakeside town is located on a narrow peninsula jutting into Lake Garda. Sirmione is famous for its thermal baths, historical ruins (like the Grotte di Catullo), and the Scaliger Castle. You can also explore the picturesque streets and enjoy lakeside dining.
• Peschiera del Garda : Peschiera del Garda is a picturesque town located at the southernmost tip of Lake Garda with a charming historical centre and scenic waterfront,
• Mantua (Mantova) : This charming city is known for its well-preserved Renaissance architecture and the interesting historic centre. You can visit Palazzo Ducale, Palazzo Te, and some beautiful piazzas.
• Vicenza : Vicenza is famous for its architecture, particularly the works of the renowned architect Andrea Palladio. You can visit the Palladian villas and the historic centre with its elegant buildings.

VERONA ACTIVITIES & TOURS

Valpolicella vineyards and wine tasting.

Discover Valpolicella Vineyards and Wine Tasting Experience is a 2.5 trip to visit a traditional family-run winery in Valpolicella and includes a tour of the vineyards and estate, 17th-century cellar, and scenic terrace and a taste of Valpolicella, Ripasso, and Amarone wines. Price: €60.

Verona Highlights Walking Tour

Verona Highlights Walking Tour in Small-group is a small group walking tour that lasts for 2h to explore the streets of Verona’s historic centre with a knowledgeable local guide. Price: €39.

Verona Food Tour

Verona Food Tour – Do Eat Better Experience is a small group tour that lasts 3.5h to get a taste of Verona’s culinary culture on a food and walking tour led by a guide. Price: €79.

Sirmione and Lake Garda Tour

Semi-private Sirmione and Lake Garda Tour is a half-day trip (4h) to Lake Garda that includes transport to Sirmione, where you’ll hop on a boat to cruise around its peninsula and take in views of the castle from the water and then a stroll through the medieval old town with a guide. Price: €89

Verona Cooking Class es

• Gelato Making Class: A 2h activity to learn how to make fruit sorbets and handmade ice cream. Price: €55.
• Risotto and Fresh Pasta Making Class : A 3.5h activity to learn how to make risotto, hand-made fresh pasta and tiramisu. Price: €95.

For more information and for bookings visit Cookly .

Major Festivals & Events

• The Arena Opera Festival is the most popular event in the city during the summer months (June to September).
• The Carnival of Verona is  one of the oldest in Italy . In fact, it dates back to 1531. The great parade of masks and floats takes place on the last Friday of Carnival called Venerdì Gnocolar. It usually takes place in February. 

More information about excursions & tours in Verona can be found here .

VERONA TOURIST MAP

You can click on the map below for the location of the best sights and places to visit in Verona .

VERONA ITINERARY

It is worth staying in Verona for 3 to 4 days if you want to explore it and combine it with day trips to the surrounding region. The following itinerary includes things to do for 3 days . Overnight stay in Verona.

Visit the historic centre of Verona.

• Start your tour of the old town by visiting Castevechio and Arco dei Gavi .
• Optional visit at the Museum of Castelvecchio .
• Cross Ponte Scaligero to the north bank of the river to enjoy the views towards the medieval bridge .
• Walk along Corso Cavour through Porta Borsari up to Piazza delle Erbe .
• Climb Torre dei Lamberti to enjoy the views of the city.
• Continue to Piazza dei Signori and pass the Scaligeri Tombs .
• Visit Basilica di Santa Anastasia .
• Walk by the river bank up to Ponte Pietra enjoying the views towards Castel san Pietro .
• Cross the Ponte Pietra and walk up to the Caste san Pietro to enjoy panoramic views over the city.
• Optional visit to the Roman Theatre and Archeological Museum .
• Walk along the river up to Parrocchia di San Giorgio in Braida taking in the views.
• Return back to the old town and visit the Duomo .
• Have a look at Juliet’s House and the famous balcony.
• Take Via Giuseppe Mazzini up to Piazza Bra .
• Have a cafe at Piazza Bra and enjoy the views of the Arena .
• Optional visit inside the Arena .

Day Trip to Lake Garda

• Take the train to Peschiera del Garda
• Take a boat tour around the lake.
• Explore the charming towns, such as Sirmione, Bardolino or Lazise .
• Take a boat to Desenzano del Garda .
• Return to Verona by train from Desenzano del Garda .

Day trip to Mantua (Mantova)

• Take the rain from Porta Nuova train station to Mantua for a visit to this historic town.

VERONA PHOTOGRAPHY

You can check the best photographs from Verona here .

Here is a list of the best viewpoint locations in Verona where you enjoy great views .

• Piazzale Castel San Pietro
• Torre dei Lamberti
• Piazzetta Bra Molinari
• Plinio Codognato Public Garden
• Giardini Pietro Gazzola
• Santuario della Madonna di Lourdes

You can check these viewpoints’ locations and the best photo spots on the island on the following map .

VIRTUAL TOUR OF VERONA

Check the following video slideshow to get further inspiration to visit Verona 🙂

FURTHER READING

Some websites for more information about Verona :

• Tourism Verona : The official tourist website of Verona.

Some good travel guides to buy before your visit Verona :

• Lonely Planet The Italian Lakes (Travel Guide) : A great guide about the Italian Lakes that includes information about Verona.
• The Rough Guide to Italian Lakes : Another good guide for the Italian Lakes that includes information about Verona.

TRAVEL RESOURCES

• Flights : I always use Skyscanner as my first choice as it’s so easy to use and you can search best deals by month. Google Flights is another very good search engine.
• Accommodation : I always use Booking.com as my first choice, as it offers a great choice of accommodation at affordable prices and it’s so easy to use. Airbnb is a great alternative for homes and apartments to rent by real homeowners.
• Car Rental : I always check Skyscanner for the cheapest car rental options. Discover Cars is also a good and easy-to-use website with great prices.
• Public Transport : Rome2Rio is a good website for checking prices & times on train and bus travel.
• Day Trips & Tours : Viator provides the most comprehensive list of day trips and you can book directly with them. GetYourGuide is also a great place to search for tours & activities to do.
• Travel Insurance : SafetyWing is a great choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads. Alternatively, you can use one of the price comparison websites for cheaper quotes.
• Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, and at no extra cost to you, I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping this site running and ad-free.

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Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Things to Do in Verona (Italy)

15 Best Things to Do in Verona (Italy)

Nestled on a U bend on the Adige River, Verona is one of the most important cities in the Veneto region of Italy and is famed for its historical centre and myriad of stunning buildings and architecture.

Verona is the second largest city in the region behind Venice and has a population of 269,000. In 89 BC, Verona became a Roman settlement and held an important position in Northern Italy as it was located at the intersection of two important roads.

As time progressed and the Roman Empire collapsed, other factions and ruling parties exercised control over Verona including Alboin of the Lombards, Mastino II, and Maximilian I. Today, Verona attracts a huge number of tourist due to its rich history and significance, and its myriad of ancient buildings such as the Arena and the Ponte Scaligero.

Lets explore the best things to do in Verona :

1. Arena di Verona

Forget about the Colosseum in Rome; Verona has its own version that is just as spectacular and possibly better preserved.

This national landmark is unknown to many, but it stands as a triumph of Roman engineering and is a true wonder.

Located in the middle of the historic town centre, the Arena is an immense Colosseum that contains literally of its original seating and exterior arches.

Constructed in 30 AD, it is remarkable that this structure has stood in such a fine condition for thousands of years.

Various shows and games would have been held here such as the Roman Ludi and at its peak, the amphitheatre would have held 30,000 spectators.

Today you can walk inside the Arena and admire its architecture; furthermore, concerts and musical shows are still held here which is a true spectacle.

2. Castle Vecchio

Sitting on the banks of the River Adige, the Castle Vecchio is a hugely important structure and has stood since its initial construction in 1354. Serving as a primary mode of defence for the city, this castle was the greatest achievement of engineering for the Scaliger dynasty.

The front gatehouse of the castle is quit imposing and features a series of crenulated battlements and two guard towers.

Inside there is a museum dedicated to the history of the castle that contains a myriad of artefacts and factual displays.

Furthermore, there is the fantastic Castle Vecchio Bridge that is attached to the main complex and provides fantastic views down the river.

3. Ponte di Castle Vecchio

At the time of its construction, the bridge was the longest of its kind in the world.

Connected to the Castle Vecchio, the bridge is decorated in the same style as the walls of the castle and features a fantastic series of crenulated battlements that you can see through down the River Adige.

As with most of the historic buildings of Verona created during this era, the bridge is made from red brick which makes it stand out against the landscape of the city.

Furthermore, there is several series of stairs that you can climb in the towers of the bridge to gain an elevated viewpoint.

Aside from walking across the bridge, ensure that you walk along the river bank to view it and photography it from the side.

4. Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore

The Basilica of San Zeno is one of the most important religious buildings in Verona, mainly for its stunning architecture, but also because it was the fictional place of the marriage of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.

Located on the west side of the River Adige, the Basilica sits at the far end of the Piazza San Zeno.

The front façade of this church is quite simple and has a large central circular window and a beautiful ornate wooden door.

Inside the Basilica is truly beautiful however – the floor is covered with peach and grey tiles, marble columns hold up the arches and the ceiling has a series of decorative tile-work.

Additionally, an Abbey is also attached to the church with a wonderful arched courtyard and cloister.

5. Piazza Delle Erbe

Verona has a wonderful amount of charming squares and the Piazza Delle Erbe is one of the finest examples.

This diamond shaped piazza lies in the heart of the historic centre of the city and serves as one of the main points of activity.

During the Roman Empire, this piazza would have served as the main forum for the settlement.

Various important buildings line the square including the Torre Lamberti, the Palazzo Maffeia and the Case dei Giudici.

Furthermore, there is a selection of cafes and restaurants and also several fountains and marble statues.

The architecture, building facades and character of this beautiful piazza is undeniable.

6. Giardino Giusti

The Giusti Gardens are located in the grounds of the palace of the same name on the eastern bank of the river Adige.

The palace itself is a Neo-Classical structure and the gardens can be found at the back of the building.

Designed in an Italian Renaissance style, the gardens are some of the finest in Verona and provide a beautiful contrast to the waves of architecture that is present in the city.

Separated into 8 different squares, each part contains a different design and a central fountain or decoration.

Maintained to a beautiful standard, it is easy to see the care and attention that is put into this garden.

Furthermore, there is also an exciting hedge maze and a small wooded area to walk through.

7. Piazza Bra

As the largest piazza in Verona, the Piazza Bra is one of the main tourist areas of the city and contains a great amount of historic buildings, public amenities and eateries.

Undoubtedly the main attraction of the piazza is the colossal Arena di Verona and the open space surrounding this monument offers some fantastic photographic opportunities.

Furthermore, there is the Gran Guardia and the Palazzo Beriberi which are two fabulous buildings in their own right.

Aside from the main buildings, there are many quaint shopping and residential structures that are painted in various colour and have beautifully decorated shutters and balconies.

The Piazza Bra is definitely one of the best places to start your tour of Verona.

8. Torre dei Lamberti

Standing proudly on the Piazza Delle Erbe, the Torre dei Lamberti is the tallest tower in Verona standing at 84m high.

Construction originally started in the 1100’s however the tower stood in a state of disrepair and it was not until the 15th century that the tower was enlarged and clad.

Different time periods can be seen when looking at the tower as it is split into several distinct different sections.

A huge clock face adorns the wall that faces into the piazza, and the tower is topped with an octagonal dome containing a series of marble arches.

If you want to see Verona from a different angle, you can climb to the top of the tower and see the whole of the city spread out before you.

9. Verona Cathedral

Created in a similar style to the Basilica of San Zeno, Verona Cathedral presents a building that is grander, larger and more decorative.

The front facade features a similar shape and composition, but contains a great deal more decoration and some fantastic artwork and stained glass windows.

Consecrated in 1187, the Cathedral is one of the oldest religious buildings in Verona and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Whilst the exterior is marvellous in its own right, the interior is just as opulent and decorative.

At the main altar, there is a stunning fresco depicting the a religious scene, and more Renaissance frescos can be seen in the main chapels.

Furthermore, a huge gold organ stands to the right of the altar and red Verona marble columns line the main knave.

10. Castel San Pietro

Holding a strategic position on the eastern bank of the Adige, the Castle of Saint Peter sits on a slightly elevated hill and has been inhabited since Roman times.

Originally, a church dedicated to Saint Peter stood here which gives the castle its name.

During the 1300’s the actual castle was built as a means of fortification for the city and stood firm for over 400 years.

Although the castle is no longer open to the public, you can still walk through its grounds, admire the amazing architecture, and experience fantastic views across to the historic centre of Verona.

11. Scaliger Tombs

Located next to the Piazza dei Signori, the Scaliger Tombs are a series of gothic funerary monuments dedicated to the influential Scaliger family.

This family rule Verona for many years and the heads of the house sat as the Lords of Verona.

Enclosed within a series or ornate Iron grills, the tombs have a Gothic design and feature a central arched structure with many pointed towers and stone sculptured decoration.

Five tombs in total sit in the enclosure dedicated to Cangrande I, Mastino II, Cansignorio, Alberto II and Giovanni.

The last monument is actually built into the wall of the adjoining chapel and features an ornate coffin and death mask.

12. Arco dei Gavi

Reminiscent of the Arch of Constantine in Rome, the Arco dei Gavi was constructed during the first century AD and would have originally served as part of the city defences and been a major gate into what is now the historic city centre.

The original inscription of the pediment on the arch read “Lucius Vitruvius Libertus”. During the Napoleonic era, the arch was actually demolished and it was not properly rebuilt using original designs until the 20th century.

You can now marvel at the arch in all its glory next to the Castle Vecchio – It is also worth seeing at night when it is beautifully lit up.

13. Casa di Giulietta

Verona is famous for having an associated with William Shakespeare; several of his plays are set in this city including the epic Romeo and Juliet.

Located on the Via Cappello, the Casa di Giulietta is the supposed building from the famous scene in Shakespeare’s play where Romeo Hails Juliet and she speaks to him from the balcony.

Although this building has been added too and any truth has be embellished, it nonetheless provides an important attraction and is a great place to visit if you are in that part of the city.

You can see the fabled balcony and inside the house there is a selection of informative displays about the play and the building.

14. Lake Garda

There are many great lakes in Italy, but non is as impressive as the mighty Lake Garda.

Lake Garda covers a surface area of 369 squared KM and has a water volume of 50.35km cubed.

It is one of the largest lakes in Italy, and also a popular holiday location due to its favourable climate, beautiful scenery and the amount of attractions available.

If you are staying in Verona for a length of time, consider taking a day trip to Lake Garda to explore this beautiful area of natural beauty – Consider a boat ride on the lake, or visiting one of the charming towns that sit on its shores such as Sermione or Bardolino.

15. Piazza dei Signori

Another of Verona’s fine Piazza’s, the Piazza dei Signori actually sits in close proximity to the Piazza delle Erbe but is just as interesting and popular.

Many historical and architecturally beautiful buildings line the square including the Palazzo del Capitano, the Loggia del Consiglio and the Case della Pieta.

Each building offers a slightly different style and the square is a miss-match of different time periods that creates a pleasant contrast.

Music performances are often held here and there is also several cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating.

15 Best Things to Do in Verona (Italy):

• Arena di Verona
• Castle Vecchio
• Ponte di Castle Vecchio
• Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore
• Piazza Delle Erbe
• Giardino Giusti
• Torre dei Lamberti
• Verona Cathedral
• Castel San Pietro
• Scaliger Tombs
• Arco dei Gavi
• Casa di Giulietta
• Piazza dei Signori

17 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Verona

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

About halfway between Milan and Venice, Verona is one of Italy's most popular cities for tourists, who revel in its art, architecture, opera, and literary fame . It lies in the sweeping S-curve of the River Adige as it emerges from the Alps. Verona's Centro Storico, the historic center, where you'll find most of the attractions and things to do, is linked with the left bank neighborhoods by 10 bridges.

Because Verona is so often overshadowed by its glamorous neighbor, Venice , tourists often try to see it in one day, but there are so many things to do here that you'll want to spend longer in this charming city.

Verona became a Roman colony in 89 BCE and developed into an important town. There are several remains from this time, including the Roman amphitheater , and the city is equally rich in Romanesque churches from the 11th and 12th centuries.

Verona was an important artistic center in the Renaissance and earlier, under the powerful della Scala family. You'll meet them everywhere, referred to as the Scaligeri. The leading 15th- and 16th-century architects, Fra Giocondo and Michele Sanmicheli, were responsible for several splendid buildings and the bastioned town walls.

You'll find it easy to plan your visit with this handy list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Verona.

See also: Where to Stay in Verona

1. Castelvecchio and Ponte Scaligero

2. arena di verona (roman amphitheater), 3. casa di giulietta, 4. basilica of san zeno maggiore, 5. piazza delle erbe, 6. piazza dei signori and loggia del consiglio, 7. arche scaligere (scaligeri tombs), 8. piazza bra, 9. duomo di santa maria matricolare (cathedral), 10. sant'anastasia, 11. stroll through the giardino giusti, 12. teatro romano and ponte pietra, 13. san fermo maggiore, 14. shop on via mazzini, 15. climb or ride to the top of the torre dei lamberti, 16. day trip to mantova (mantua), 17. day trip to sirmione and rocca scaligera, where to stay in verona for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in verona, verona, italy - climate chart.

On the banks of the Adige, Castelvecchio was built by the Scaligeri in 1354-55, an impressive defensive fortress certain to remind any rivals of the power of the della Scala family. Crossing the river is the beautiful castellated Ponte Scaligero, a 14th-century bridge that's traffic free and among the locals' favorite places to go for a stroll.

The castle's main tower and ramparts afford views of the bridge, the city, and surrounding hills. The castle interior has been brilliantly restored and transformed into bright exhibit space by architect Carlo Scarpa, without sacrificing the integrity or history of the castle.

The collections of the Civico Museo d'Arte are shown here, featuring Veronese sculpture, applied art, and paintings, with works by Bellini, Rubens, Montagna, Guardi, Tiepolo, Tintoretto, Pisano, and artists of the 15th- and 16th-century Veronese school.

A few steps up Corso Cavour is the Arco dei Gavi, a first-century stone arched gate that spanned a Roman road; look for the grooves worn by chariot wheels in the stone below the arch.

Address: Corso Castelvecchio 2 (off Corso Cavour), Verona

One of the largest of its kind and among the best preserved Roman amphitheaters, Verona's arena was built in the reign of Diocletian, about 290 CE. Only four arches of the outer wall on the north side have survived, but the vaulting and seating are intact and in regular use.

Its 44 rows of seating can accommodate 22,000 spectators, and in July and August, it is the home of the Verona Opera Festival , one of Europe's major summer music events ranked with the Bayreuth and Salzburg festivals. Concerts and other events are also held inside.

Address: Piazza Brà, Verona

Verona is perhaps best known internationally as the setting for Shakespeare's famous tragedy, Romeo and Juliet. Inevitably, tourists asked where the star-crossed lovers lived, and Veronese obligingly pointed out a small medieval palazzo just off Piazza delle Erbe that had an attractive courtyard where tourists could stand without blocking the street.

In the 1930s, the city added the missing ingredient, building a balcony overlooking the courtyard. Several decades later they added a bronze statue and set up displays inside the house for tourists to look at on their way to be photographed on the balcony.

No matter that the story is fiction, the characters purely imaginative, and the plot not based on any actual events or people in Verona (where Shakespeare had never been), the city has still become a place of pilgrimage to the point where they hire a team of secretaries to answer mail left for the mythical Juliet.

Address: Via Cappello 23, Verona

The large 11-12th century Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore is considered the finest Romanesque building in northern Italy. The beautiful main front of alternating strata of brick and white tufa is flanked by a slender Romanesque campanile (1045-1178) and the 14th-century battlemented defensive tower of a former Benedictine abbey.

Although you enter through the elegant Romanesque cloister via a gate at the side, be sure to see the bronze doors on the front portal, with outstanding Romanesque reliefs of Biblical and secular scenes.

The interior has an unusual 14th-century timber roof and beautiful Romanesque capitals. In the aisles are frescoes from the 13th to 15th centuries . In the choir is a marble figure, thought to be 14th-century, of St. Zeno, the fourth-century bishop of Verona. His reliquary is in the crypt, which is quite unusual in that it is equal in size and prominence to the chancel above it. On the high altar is a 15th-century Madonna with Saints by Mantegna.

On the third Sunday of the month, a locally popular flea market fills Piazza San Zeno, where you may find everything from salami to antiques.

Address: Piazza San Zeno, Verona

The central feature of Verona's Centro Storico is the rectangular Piazza delle Erbe, one of the most picturesque squares in Italy. It stands on the site of the Roman forum and is now a fruit and vegetable market. In the center of the square is the 16th-century Berlina, a canopy on four columns, formerly used for elections. To the north of it is a fountain from 1368 with the Madonna di Verona , an ancient marble statue that was repurposed in medieval times.

At the north end of the square, a marble column holds the lion of St. Mark, the emblem of Verona's former Venetian rulers. At the northeast corner stands the Casa Mazzanti , originally built by the Scaligeri. Like many houses here, it is adorned with Renaissance frescoes. On the north side of the square is the Baroque Palazzo Maffei from 1668, and to the left of this, the 1370 Torre del Gardello .

The Casa dei Mercanti at the corner of Via Pellicciai was rebuilt in 1878 in its original 1301 form. Opposite, rises the 84-meter-high Torre dei Lamberti , with a medieval bell, El Rengo. From the end near the lion of St. Mark, Corso Porta Borsari is interrupted by Porta dei Borsari , a Roman city gate built in the first century CE and restored in 265. At the opposite end is the pedestrianized Via Mancini, Verona's most fashionable shopping street.

Accessed through an archway from Piazza delle Erbe , Piazza dei Signori is surrounded by palaces, and in the middle stands a monument to Dante erected in 1865. The Palazzo della Ragione (Town Hall), on the south side of the piazza was begun in 1193 but altered in later centuries. The main front of the building is Renaissance, dating to 1524. In the courtyard are a Gothic grand staircase from 1446-50 and the entrance to the Torre dei Lamberti .

Also in the square are a battlemented tower and the Palazzo dei Tribunali , converted in 1530-31 from a Scaliger Palace and with a Renaissance doorway by Michele Sanmicheli. On the east side of the square is the Palazzo del Governo , originally another Scaligeri palace and also containing a doorway by Sanmicheli.

On the north side of the Piazza dei Signori stands the Loggia del Consiglio, one of the finest Early Renaissance buildings in Italy. It was built by Fra Giocondo from 1486 to 1493, and is crowned by statues of famous citizens of Verona. Recent excavations here have uncovered a Roman street, mosaics, and other remains below the current street level, which you can explore from an entrance off the adjoining large courtyard.

The lovely little church of Santa Maria Antica was completed in the 12th century and became the family church of the della Scala princes, who ruled Verona in the 13th and 14th centuries. Their imposing Gothic tombs almost overshadow it, topped by their effigies in full armor. Look for their symbol: the ladder (scala) was the heraldic emblem of the family and frequently recurs in the elaborate wrought-iron railings.

Above the church door are the sarcophagus and a copy of an equestrian statue of Cangrande della Scala, who died in 1329 (the original is beautifully displayed at Castelvecchio). To the left are the mural monument of Giovanni, who died in 1359, and the sarcophagus of Mastino I from 1277. Inside the railings, under a canopy, are the sarcophagi and equestrian statues of Mastino II and Cansignorio, who died in 1351 and 1375 respectively.

Address: Via Arche Scaligere, Verona

The arena forms one side of the wide Piazza Brà, opposite the Palazzo Malfatti, created by Michele Sanmicheli. Adjoining the long building of the Gran Guardi, the old guard-house from 1614, is the gate and tower of I Portoni della Brà , the landmark entry point to Piazza Bra and the old city. Beneath its Romanesque arches is a bust of William Shakespeare and his lines from Romeo and Juliet beginning "There is no world without Verona walls..."

Forming a third side of the piazza is a long row of restaurants with sidewalk terraces that are almost always filled with people. Step through one of the passageways to the tangle of streets just behind the row of restaurants and you'll find several excellent choices that are less crowded with tourists. Two good options are Torcolo on Via Carlo Cattaneo or Ristorante Nastro Azzurro on Vicolo Listone.

The cathedral is a 12th-century Romanesque basilica with a 15th-century Gothic nave. Adjoining it is a campanile on a Romanesque base, designed by Sanmicheli but not completed until 1927. On the beautiful main doorway of the cathedral are figures of Charlemagne's two paladins, Roland and Oliver, done between 1139 and 1153.

Inside, on the first altar to the left, is the church's primary highlight, Titian's 1525 Assumption , and at the end of the south aisle is the Gothic tomb of St. Agatha, from 1353. Especially striking are the red marble pillars and marble choir-screen. To the left of the cathedral is a Romanesque cloister built in 1123, with an early Christian mosaic floor on the lower level.

Address: Piazza Duomo 21, Verona

A brick church from the late 13th century, Sant'Anastasia towers above a little piazza in the heart of Verona and is the city's finest example of Gothic architecture. Over its portal are scenes from the life of St. Peter carved in stone, and above them, a 15th-century fresco.

Just inside, a pair of grotesques carved from marble hold holy water fonts, the left one by Gabriele Caliari, the father of the artist Paolo Veronese. Don't miss the fresco of St. George and the Princess by Pisanello.

The slender bell tower, 72 meters tall, is known for its nine bells, rung in a traditional style known as Veronese bellringing , an art perpetuated by the Scuola Campanaria Verona in S.Anastasia, an academy of bellringers based at the church.

Address: Piazza Sant'Anastasia, Verona

Behind the 16th-century Palazzo Giusti is the lovely garden, Giardino Giusti, with paths among its eight formal parterres, each with a different pattern of hedges, along with fountains and statues.

A path leads from the back, up the steep embankment to a less formal garden with a grotto and views of the city framed by beautiful old cypresses. Although it's not the largest, it is ranked among the best Renaissance gardens in Italy . Especially in the summer heat, it's a peaceful retreat from the city.

Address: Via Giardino Giusti 2, Verona

Across the Roman bridge of Ponte Pietra, on the hillside below Castel San Pietro , the Roman Theater was built in the first century during the reign of Augustus and excavated between 1904 and 1939. Of the theater itself, you can see the remains of the stage building's tufa walls and stones in the stage pit with holes where the ropes were drawn to open and close the curtains.

More remnants are visible of the auditorium, which was built into the hillside in galleries and terraces, including the floor of the orchestra seating with geometric inlaid marble. The theater is the home of the summer Verona Jazz Festival . The Roman bridge, Ponte Pietra, was blown up during World War II, as were all Verona's bridges, but after the war, the stones were retrieved from the river and painstakingly sorted and reassembled into the bridge that crosses here today.

Address: Regaste Redentore 2, Verona

The first San Fermo Maggiore was built in the eighth century in memory of saints Fermo and Rustico, believed at the time to have been martyred in the arena. It was replaced in the 11th century with the present structure, and the crypt is the only surviving part of the original.

The current church retains its 11th-century Romanesque lower portion, with a Gothic upper section from the 13th-14th century. The facade is beautifully decorated in marble. The church houses a 14th-century wooden crucifix and Alessandro Turchi's Adoration of the Shepherds. Look for the Pisanello frescoes above the Brenzoni monument, and more frescoes surrounding the ornate pulpit.

Address: Via San Fermo, Verona

Leading from Piazza Bra to Piazza delle Erbe, the narrow Via Mazzini runs through the heart of the Centro Storico. The marble pavement of this pedestrianized street is worn by centuries of feet, and the buildings at either side house Verona's most elegant shops. Display windows show the latest in Italian and international fashions, with a mix of trendy names and local boutiques.

Here, as everywhere else in Verona, history is never very far beneath your feet; the ground floor of the Benetton store is covered in glass, so you can see the 1st-century Roman Domus excavated beneath it. Although it's Verona's favorite shopping street, it is also the most popular place to go for the traditional passeggiata , or evening stroll.

Constructed in 1172 and heightened to its current lofty 84 meters (276 feet) in the 1400s, Torre dei Lamberti dominates the skylines of both Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori. You can distinguish the two periods of construction, as the old tower was built in layers of tuffa and terra cotta, giving it a striped appearance.

You can climb the 368 steps spiraling to the top to see the stonework up close, or you can take the glass elevator for a faster view of the interior. As you might expect, the views from the top are spectacular, encompassing the entire center of Verona, the Adige Valley, and the surrounding hills.

Fifty kilometers south of Verona, the provincial capital of Mantua was the residence of the Gonzaga family from 1328 until 1707, and they made Mantua one of the most refined and cultivated of princely capitals, a great center of art and learning. Their sumptuous residence, the massive Palazzo Ducale , dominates the town and is still one of Italy's most splendid palaces.

Today, it houses several important collections, including paintings, Greek and Roman sculpture, medieval and Renaissance sculpture, and tapestries made from cartoons by Raphael. These are displayed in opulent rooms decorated with frescoes, ceiling paintings, and richly sculptured ceilings.

Also in the center of Mantua, the church of Sant'Andrea is a masterpiece of Early Renaissance architecture built by Leon Battista Alberti in 1472-94, with a transept and choir from 1600. Mantova's third major attraction is the single-story Palazzo del Te , built for the Gonzagas between 1525 and 1535 by Giulio Romano. It is decorated with beautiful frescoes and stucco work.

At the tip of a long promontory reaching out into the southern end of Lake Garda , about 40 minutes from Verona , Sirmione could be a stage set. You enter the town across a drawbridge, at the foot of a picture-perfect castle, Rocca Scaligera, built in the 12th century by Verona's ruling Scaligeri family. After touring the castle's restored rooms, climb to the tower for views across the lake and town.

Stroll along Sirmione's main street of chic shops, and walk or take the tourist trolley to the far end of the peninsula. Here, the Roman poet Catullus, who lived from 84 to 54 BC, built a villa to take advantage of the sulphur springs, which are now used by a luxury spa. The remains of his villa, Grotte di Catullo , and the complex surrounding it are extensive and worth exploring both for their history and for the beautiful lake views.

Verona's main attractions, with few exceptions, lie within the hairpin bend in the River Adige, where the Romans built their town. Castelvecchio, the Roman Arena, Juliet's House, Piazza delle Erbe, the cathedral, and several art-filled churches all cluster in this Centro Storico. Happily for tourists, so do several hotels, and others are a few minutes away. Here are some highly rated hotels in Verona:

Luxury Hotels :

• In a well-preserved palazzo, Due Torri Hotel shares a little piazza with Sant'Anastasia, one of Verona's top attractions. Bountiful complimentary breakfasts, a rooftop restaurant, and exceptional concierge service distinguish this historic property, where deluxe guest rooms have marble bathrooms and wood-paneled walk-in closets.
• In the old center near Piazza delle Erbe, a five-minute walk to the arena, Academia Hotel serves an excellent free breakfast, as well as drinks and light snacks every afternoon in the sitting room.
• Also overlooking Via Mazzini, Escalus Luxury Suites Verona serves made-to-order breakfasts that are brought directly to its stylish rooms. Although the building is a historic one, the interior décor and amenities are contemporary, and there is an elevator. This member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) also offers valet parking.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• On the main street connecting the rail station (which is also the airport bus stop) to the Centro Storico, the four-star Best Western Hotel Firenze is a 10-minute walk from the Arena and on a direct bus line. All rooms have either a steam bath or Jacuzzi, and apartments in the annex, called Casa Cavallino, have kitchenettes. Free Wi-Fi is available in every room.
• Along with rain showers and free continental breakfast, Hotel Milano has a rooftop terrace with a tiny pool, Jacuzzi, and café overlooking the arena; on opera and concert nights, you can hear the music drifting up. The spa includes a Turkish bath, sauna, and ice waterfall.
• Hotel Trieste , five minutes from the arena on the main street between the rail station and old town, has brightly furnished rooms, complimentary breakfast, underground parking, and free bicycles for guests.

Budget Hotels:

• On a quiet back street just off Piazza Bra next to the arena, Giulietta e Romeo Hotel has some rooms with balconies. The generous included breakfast has hot dishes, as well as the usual breads and pastries. The hotel has an elevator.
• On a small street between the Roman Arena and river, Best Western Hotel Armando offers guests free on-street parking and complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. Some rooms are accessible to disabled guests.
• Just off Piazza Bra, between the arena and Castelvecchio, the Hotel Torcolo has plain rooms, an elevator, a very helpful staff, and parking spots for guests. Especially for a hotel with such modest prices, rooms are very well equipped, with refrigerators, safes, hair dryers, and Wi-Fi.

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Places to Visit near Verona: While the magical canals and opulent palaces of Venice are less than 90 minutes away, the same train will also take you to Vicenza , with its elegant Palladian villas, and to Renaissance Padua , with its shrine of St. Anthony and magnificent Scrovegni chapel lined in frescoes by Giotto.

Where to Go Next: Verona sits at the heart of some of Northern Italy's most popular attractions, but it is also easy to travel to other major tourist cities by direct train. In less than 90 minutes, a train will take you to the Renaissance treasures of Florence , a good base for visiting the hill towns and other places to visit in Tuscany .

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Verona Travel Guide: Top Things to Do & Travel Tips

Oh, Verona – the city of love! And by that we don’t mean the tragic love story of Romeo and Juliet that takes place in Verona and is present all across the city. Verona in Italy is simply a city that you fall in love with at first sight.

In Verona you can look forward to wonderfully beautiful buildings, to lovely viewpoints and perfect Italian flair . So if you are searching for another destination for an Italian city trip, then we can whole-heartedly recommend Verona.

In this travel guide, we take you to the most beautiful sights, things to do and our favourite places in Verona. As always, we also provide you with our personal travel tips for your trip to Verona.

1. Verona (Italy): Overview of initial Travel Tips & FAQs

2. verona travel guide: best sights & things to do, 3. the most beautiful views of verona, 4. eating & drinking in verona: culinary travel guide, 5. our hotel tip for verona, 6. map: overview of all the sights in verona.

Where is Verona and how do I get there?

Verona is located inland in northern Italy , more precisely in the Veneto region. There are many well-known travel destinations in the area around Verona such as Lake Garda (approx. 45 minutes by car to Sirmione) or Venice (approx. 1.5 hours by car).

Verona has an airport – so theoretically you could fly. We recommend taking the train instead, especially if you are travelling from the south of Germany or from Austria.

And last but not least, traveling by car is also possible. Note that parking fees will be added here. Depending on the hotel or garage, you need to allow for around 30 euros per night. You definitely don’t need your car in Verona (quite the contrary). We would consider taking the car if you are planning to take day trips or a road trip through several regions of Italy .

What should I expect in Verona?

• Perfect Italian flair: Verona is Dolce Vita at its best! Look forward to espresso & gelato, pizza & pasta and of course a dreamy, beautiful atmosphere in Verona’s old town.
• Impressive architecture: Roman relics, Middle Ages & Renaissance – in Verona you will find a remarkable selection of impressive buildings, including of course the Verona Arena. But the rest of the Verona’s cityscape is simply beautiful to look at. It’s no wonder that the old town has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since the year 2000.
• Great viewpoints: Verona is the city of impressive panorama views. Or to put it another way: Anyone who enjoys viewing a city from a birds-eye-view can get excited. Verona has some really great viewpoints – of course, we will let you know more about this within this travel guide.

How many days should I plan for Verona?

With 250,000 inhabitants, Verona is a comparatively compact city . What does that mean for you? You can explore all the sights in the city centre on foot without a problem and most are located just a stone’s throw away from one another.

Theoretically, you could therefore visit all of Verona’s highlights in one day . For example, many people “only” take a day trip from Lake Garda to Verona.

We mean it when we say “theoretically”, because we would definitely recommend spending a few days in Verona. The small city is really beautiful – especially in the morning and evening hours when the day tourists are gone.

We ourselves stayed two nights in Verona and found this amount of time to be ideal. We had enough time to calmly visit the main attractions and also take a leisurely stroll through the city. If you would like to have an even more relaxing time, it’s better to stay three to four nights .

Tip: Save with the Verona Card

If you are thinking about seeing a lot of the sights in Verona, then perhaps purchasing a Verona Card would be worthwhile for you.

The card is available in two versions: Either for 24 hours (20 euros) or for 48 hours (25 euros, each valid from the first use. With the card you get free entry into almost all the main attractions including the Arena, the Torre dei Lamberti or the Castelvecchio. At the Arena the card is twice as worthwhile because it gives you preferential admission and often you can skip the long waiting line at the ticket counter. 

You can purchase the Verona Card at every participating attraction. Alternatively, you can buy it at the tourist information office in Piazza Brà. (You can also pick up the card there if you purchase it online in advance.)

You can book the card in advance here through GetYourGuide: Verona Card

Verona Arena & Piazza Brà

We are starting our travel guide directly with the landmark and architectural highlight of the city, which simply cannot be missed, namely the Verona Arena. The monumental amphitheatre is reminiscent of a Roman colosseum and is simply impressive to look at.

What is the best way to visit the Verona Arena? Well, ideally when a concert or an opera is playing. In summer the famous Verona Opera Festival takes place in the midst of this historical backdrop.

Verona is definitely at its fullest during this time, but don’t be too sad if you miss the opera festival: You can visit the Arena year-round and take a peek inside.

The Arena is located directly in the Verona’s main square, the Piazza Brà . Sure, all eyes are on the Arena, still there are even more historical buildings to be found here including the Palazzo della Gran Guardia or the Palazzo Barbieri.

Our tip #1: Depending on the time of year and time of day, a really long queue can build up in front of the Arena. With the Verona Card you get preferential entry. In case you are thinking about visiting several sights in Verona, the Verona Card can definitely pay off.

Our tip #2: If you would like to photograph the Verona Arena without crowds of people, you should visit in the morning. Also good to know: the atmosphere in the morning light is simply wonderful.

Info for a visit to the Verona Arena

Price for a visit: 12 euros (free with the Verona Card) Info: Verona Arena (only available in Italian)   Tickets & opera festival info: Arena Opera Festival

Torre dei Lamberti

The striking Torre dei Lamberti reaches 84 metres into the sky and clearly towers over all the other surrounding buildings. You possibly already know what we would like to say with that: The view from up top is simply fantastic and absolutely worth seeing!

If you’re feeling sporty, you can take the stairs like we did. There are 368 steps to climb. Alternatively, you can also reach the viewpoint in quite a relaxed manner with the elevator . (Note: You need to go up the last two floors on foot.)

Once you reach the top, a fantastic panorama view in all directions is waiting for you. We found the view towards Piazza delle Erbe, in particular, to be very spectacular. Good to know: The net, which is probably there to keep away the pigeons, makes it quite easy to take photos through. But taking nice portraits is a little more challenging.

Our tip: If possible, we recommend you visit at sunset. We secured a ticket for this timeslot in advance via email.

Info for visiting Torre dei Lamberti

Price: 6 euros (free with the Verona Card) Opening times and more info: Torre dei Lamberti (official website)

Squares to visit in Verona

Verona’s old town is a small work of art. (We remind you: It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.) You don’t need to search too hard to find the most beautiful corners and squares. We would like to briefly show you the most well-known, or in our opinion the most beautiful, squares.

• Piazza Brà: We already briefly mentioned Verona’s main square up above. It is hard to miss because the monumental Verona Arena is located here. It is very touristy at Piazza Brà. If you would like to photograph beautiful buildings without crowds, then we recommend stopping by in the morning.
• Piazza delle Erbe: You will find yourself in the most central square in the street labyrinth of Verona’s old town here. The Piazza delle Erbe is one of the oldest squares in Verona and was the forum during the Roman times. A market is held here during the day from Monday until Saturday. In the evening tourists and locals meet for an aperitivo. You can marvel at the square from a birds-eye-perspective from Torre dei Lamberti
• Piazza dei Signori: Right around the corner from Piazza delle Erbe is the enchanting Piazza dei Signori. It is usually a little less busy here, but the square is definitely not any less beautiful. It is lined with imposing structures dating back to the Scaliger era, including the Palazzo del Governo. The Loggia di Fra Giocondo also catches the eye, a remnant of the Renaissance. Our tip: Be sure to go through the archway at the northernmost end of the square and marvel at the Scaliger tombs. Wow!

Casa di Giulietta & Casa di Romeo

If you are in Verona, Romeo and Juliet is difficult to miss. The tragic love story from William Shakespeare plays out in Verona. And there is – oh wonder – of course a place that, according to legend, served as the inspiration. Or more precisely, two places.

One of these is Juliet’s house, called Casa di Giulietta in Italian. It once belonged to the wealthy Veronese family, the Dal Cappello family. The resemblance of the names (Cappello – Capulet) probably led to the idea that, as according to legend, it is Juliet’s house.

You will probably easily spot Casa di Giulietta by the long queue that forms in front of the house. The inner courtyard is tiny and therefore usually quite overcrowded, so you have to wait to enter. 

It is free to take a look inside the courtyard. There is only an entrance fee for the small museum in the interior of Casa di Giulietta, which also includes access to the balcony .

And then there is the comparatively less well-known and also much less spectacular Casa di Romeo . This house cannot be visited. But of course, as someone with the name Romeo, it’s necessary to take a photo in front of it.

Info for visiting Casa di Giulietta

Entrance: Free for outside, for museum (incl. balcony) 6 euros (free with the Verona Card) Opening times and more info: Casa di Giulietta (only available in Italian) Ticket: Must be booked in advance here .

Giardino Giusti

If you need a break from Verona’s old town, you should take a detour to the idyllic Giardino Giusti. Italian garden art from the Renaissance awaits you here within a wonderfully situated historical garden.

From the entrance of the Palazzo Giusti, you continue to walk up higher. We find the spot at the pavilion to be very nice. From here you can enjoy a really fantastic view back towards the city.

Then the path goes past the tower even further up to the city wall, which dates back to the 14 th century. The panorama view over Verona is particularly beautiful at sunset.

Info for visiting Giardino Giusti

Price: 12 euros (9 euros with the Verona Card) Opening times and more info: Giardino Giusti (official website)

Castelvecchio & Ponte Scaligero

Caught a bad weather front? How about a museum visit? In this case we can recommend a visit to Castelveccios. Today an art museum is housed inside this medieval castle complex.

You could of course also marvel at Castelvecchio or its inner courtyard simply from the outside. To also view the premise from the inside you need to visit the art museum, Museo di Castelvecchio. Here you can look forward to a journey through Veronese paintings from the Gothic period to the 17 th century.

In general, the exhibits are probably more interesting for art lovers. But we found the tour through Castelveccio quite exciting.

At the end of your museum visit you should definitely also take a stroll across Castelveccio’s Ponte Scaligero. This medieval bridge is one of the most beautiful and striking in Verona.

The Arco dei Gavi is also worth taking a detour for, which sits enthroned in the northeast of Castelveccio directly on the riverbank. The benches in front of it are ideal for a short break from sightseeing.

Overview of info for visiting the Museo di Castelvecchio

Price: 9 euros (free with the Verona Card), the inner courtyard is free Opening times and more info: Museo di Castelvecchio (only available in Italian)

Churches in Verona

Of course, Verona also has some impressive sacred buildings . None of which are quite so spectacular as the Siena Cathedral. However, for the final attractions we would like to introduce you to the two most famous churches in Verona.

Verona Cathedral Complex (= Cattedrale di Santa Maria Matricolare)

The Verona Cathedral comprises of several buildings and therefore is commonly referred to as the “Cathedral Complex”. This complex includes the actual cathedral, the canons’ church of Sant’ Elena, the baptistery of San Giovanni in Fonte, the canons’ cloister and the chapter library.

The church, the actual cathedral, with its façade of Roman and Gothic components is quite the eye-catcher and well worth seeing just from the outside. Of course, you can also take a look inside the cathedral.

Price: 4 euros (free with the Verona Card), or alternatively a combo-ticket (8 euros) for the 4 of Verona’s main churches

Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore

Unlike the cathedral, this rather remarkable church is located a little outside the main tourist area and therefore away from the hustle and bustle. You can walk to it from Piazza Brà in around 15 minutes.

The Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore is considered one of the most beautiful Roman churches in all of Italy. Its interior is very noble and not as elaborate as many other churches. The adjoining cloister is also quite a highlight.

Conclusion: If you have a little more time, you definitely should not skip this detour. At the end of your visit, you can also take a stroll through the San Zeno district and enjoy a gelato here.

Price: 4 euros (free with the Verona Card), or alternatively a combo-ticket (8 euros) for all four of Verona’s main churches

Tours in Verona

Would you like to get to know Verona beyond the classic sights? Then one of these tours or courses could be something for you. Here you will find unique experiences in Verona.

Castel San Pietro

A classic view in Verona – particularly at sunset! From the walls of the historic castle complex, Castel San Pietro, Verona’s old town lies at your feet. The panorama is simply fantastic.

To get to Castel San Pietro, you first walk over the beautiful Ponte Pietra . Then you can either take the relaxed option of using the cable car or make the hike up by foot. Don’t worry: It takes a lot shorter than you think. In 10 minutes, you’ve already reached the top. 

It is also worthwhile to take a bit of a walk around – you always get varied perspectives back towards the city from different spots. Hot tip: Take a cool drink in your backpack up with you and enjoy it up top as a sundowner – wonderful!

Torre dei Lamberti

You definitely get the best birds-eye-view close to the town centre from Torre dei Lamberti. This striking tower rises up from Verona’s town centre 84 metres into the sky.

We reveal more info for visiting this highly recommendable viewpoint further up in this travel guide in the chapter with the most beautiful sights in Verona.

Rooftop Bar at Hotel Milano

Last but not least: You can enjoy an impressive view of the historical wing of the Verona Arena (called “ala”) from the roof of our hotel, Hotel Milano . There you can find a rooftop bar, which is also open to non-hotel guests.

The prices are of course a reflection of the location and rather high, but you can still treat yourself to an Aperitivo. It is located on the fifth floor – so not so high, but high enough to have a dreamy view over Verona’s rooftop landscape in all directions.

Our tips: Be sure to come at sunset. When the sinking sun colours Verona in an orange light, the Aperol Spritz just tastes better. If you are here during the height of summer, we definitely recommend making a reservation – the number of spots available is quite limited.

Of course, we wouldn’t miss including a few culinary tips for Verona in our travel guide. First up, we’ll let you in on a few important and helpful tips for your trip.

• Espresso is traditionally drunk at the counter in Italy. It is cheaper there and usually just costs 1 to 1.5 euros max. By the way: If you order a “caffè” you will get an espresso. 
• Do it like the locals and enjoy an Aperitivo ! In Italy they eat very late in the evening. People meet each other in the city bars beforehand for an Aperitivo. A free snack is usually served with the drink.
• If you take a seat at a table and are served there, a so-called “coperto” will be charged, which should be understood as a kind of service surcharge. You usually get some bread. (And it almost always tastes worse than you are used to in Austria and Germany – just to warn you.) The coperto-charge varies and is usually around 1.50 to 3 euros per person.   
• Tipping is rather uncommon in Italy compared to Austria or Germany. Often (but not always) you pay at the counter or at the cash desk near the exit on your way out, and not at the table.
• Generally, we recommend in Verona – particularly in the main season and especially in the evening – that you make a reservation.

Café & restaurant recommendations

La Lanterna: Vegan & organic – if that sounds like your tastes, you pay this restaurant a visit. It is located a little outside of the inner-city but is the perfect place to be for anyone who is plant-based. Fantastic value for money!

Elk Bakery: Here you will find one of the hippest cafés in Verona. Whether breakfast, an afternoon coffee, or an evening meal – this youthful, stylish eatery is well-frequented at all times of day. You can reach it after a short stroll over the Ponte della Vittoria from Verona’s old town in under 10 minutes.

Ziga: This very nice, vegetarian bistro is located right next to the Elk Bakery. Here they have breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals such as burgers and pasta.

Osteria Caffè Monte Baldo: This authentic Osteria is located in a small alley in the midst of the old town. A lot of locals meet here for an Aperitivo. On the menu you can find traditional Veronese risotto (prepared with the red wine Amarone della Valpolicella). Something cool: They even have vegan meals!

Focacceria La Figaccia: The best focaccia to get you through is found in this tiny store close to Castelvecchios. The only downer: the vegetarian options are quite limited.

Ice cream tips: What would a trip to Verona be without gelato? There is incredible ice cream on practically every corner in Verona. Some noteworthy ones are L’arte Del Gelato or Gelateria La Romana.

Long researched and finally found: The perfect city hotel for our trip to Verona. In Hotel Milano you stay very central (1 minute away from the Arena) and still peaceful. Huge recommendation!

The rooms are very comfortable and modern and – most importantly for us – the hotel beds are really comfortable. We would definitely recommend not booking the smallest room category, because it would be quite cosy. In any case, there is no lack of amenities – from huge TVs to a free minibar, everything is there.

One highlight is the rooftop bar on the rooftop terrace on the 5th floor. Here we enjoyed our daily Aperitivo with a view of the Arena. Wow! If you wish, you can also make yourself comfortable in the hot tub, although it is integrated into the bar area, so there is not so much privacy.

Something really great: If you arrive by car, you can drive directly to the hotel. Your car will then be parked by the staff in the hotel parking garage – perfect service! We recommend reserve a parking spot before you arrive (price point: approx. 30 euros per night)

We only found that the breakfast could be improved a little – although the very friendly staff make up for it a lot. But okay, breakfast in Italy simply cannot be compared to that of Austria or Germany. Next time we would probably skip it and have breakfast out somewhere.

Our conclusion: A really great hotel, which couldn’t be more centrally located. The service could be a touch more personal, but it is incredible efficient, and the staff are very friendly. We would stay here again anytime.

You can book the hotel here: Hotel Milano

We have marked all the sights and our personal tips of our travel guide on this map, so that you can better navigate from A to B while you are there. Small tip: Simply click the top right corner to open the map in the Google Maps App on your smartphone.

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links

This travel guide contains our personal recommendations in the form of affiliate links. If you book or buy something through the links, we receive a small commission. This does not change the price for you at all. A million thanks from the both of us!

Have you already been to Verona? Did you also enjoy it as much as we did? Perhaps you have additional recommendations for sights or travel tips that you would like to share with us? We look forward to your comments!

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Thanks for a nicely written travel blog, helpful tips and beautiful photos. You help calm down the excited me 2 weeks before my first trip to Italy. Especially to Verona finally 🥰 Reading your blog does feel like I’m travelling myself 🚂🚂

Hi Siena, you’re welcome. :) We hope you had an amazing time in Italy! All the best, Kathi & Romeo

Very appropriate trip for a guy named Romeo! Thanks for the detailed tips, especially about Hotel Milano and its rooftop bar. Heading there in a few days and I’ll certainly check it out.

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Unlocking the Charm of Northern Italy: Verona Travel Guide

Nestled in the heart of northern Italy , Verona is a city that exudes romance and history. With its picturesque streets, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage, Verona offers an unforgettable experience for travelers.

To make the most of your trip to this charming city, here's the utilmate Verona travel guide to some of the best experiences and activities you can enjoy.

Table of Content

North Italy Travel Guide: Top 7 Things to Do in Verona

1. Experience the Magic of Verona's Opera

One of the highlights of any trip to Verona is attending an opera performance at the renowned Arena di Verona , a Roman amphitheater that has been hosting world-class opera productions for centuries. The Arena's unique atmosphere, with its ancient stones and starlit sky, creates a truly magical setting for opera enthusiasts.

To ensure you don't miss out on this unforgettable experience, it's essential to book Verona opera tickets in advance. These tickets are highly sought after, and securing them early will allow you to choose from the best seats and enjoy a seamless entry into the venue.

Popular operas, such as “Aida” and “Carmen,” are regularly performed here, and watching them under the stars is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

2. Stroll Through Verona's Historic Center

Verona's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a testament to the city's rich history. Begin your exploration at Piazza delle Erbe , the city's bustling market square. Here, you'll find colorful stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, and local crafts. Take a moment to admire the Torre dei Lamberti, a towering medieval clock tower that offers panoramic views of the city.

From Piazza delle Erbe , follow the winding streets to Juliet's House, known locally as Casa di Giulietta . The romantic legend of Romeo and Juliet is deeply intertwined with Verona, and this house, with its iconic balcony, is a popular attraction. Don't forget to rub the right breast of Juliet's bronze statue for good luck in love!

3. Indulge in Veronese Cuisine

Veronese cuisine is a delightful blend of northern Italian flavors, and you can't leave the city without trying some local dishes . Start with a classic plate of risotto all'Amarone , made with the famous Amarone wine produced in the region. Pair it with local cheeses and cold cuts for a delectable meal.

For dessert, don't miss out on trying the legendary Pandoro , a sweet, star-shaped bread that is a Veronese Christmas tradition . Enjoy it with a glass of Prosecco or a shot of Grappa to complete your culinary experience.

4. Visit the Stunning Castelvecchio

Verona's Castelvecchio , a medieval fortress, is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts. The castle, built in the 14th century, now houses the Castelvecchio Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of art, sculptures, and artifacts from different eras.

As you explore the museum, you'll also have the opportunity to cross the Ponte Scaligero , a fortified bridge that spans the Adige River. The bridge's architectural beauty and panoramic views of the city make it a fantastic spot for photographs.

5. Explore Verona's Vineyards

The Veneto region, where Verona is located, is renowned for its vineyards and wine production. A visit to Verona wouldn't be complete without exploring the surrounding countryside and tasting some of the finest wines Italy has to offer.

Book a wine tour and visit local wineries to sample Amarone , Valpolicella , and Soave wines. You'll not only get to savor these exquisite wines but also gain insight into the winemaking process from the experts. The picturesque vineyards and rolling hills provide a stunning backdrop for your wine-tasting adventure.

6. Discover the Hidden Gems

While Verona's major attractions are well-known, the city also hides a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Take a leisurely stroll along the Adige River and explore the quiet neighborhoods away from the tourist crowds. You'll stumble upon charming piazzas, quaint cafes, and boutique shops.

One such hidden gem is the Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore , a Romanesque church with a beautiful façade and stunning interior frescoes. Its serene ambiance offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city center.

7. Enjoy a Night at the Opera

If you're a fan of opera, why limit yourself to just one performance at the Arena di Verona? While securing Verona opera tickets for the Arena is a priority, you can also enjoy opera in a more intimate setting at Teatro Filarmonico . This historic theater hosts a variety of opera and classical music performances throughout the year. Check the schedule and treat yourself to another memorable night of music and culture.

Plan Your Trip to Verona Today

Verona's enchanting atmosphere, rich history, and cultural offerings make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a unique Italian experience. From the magic of the opera at the Arena di Verona to the culinary delights of Veronese cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this captivating city.

So, start planning your trip to Verona and immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of this Italian gem. With a little preparation and an open heart, you'll create lasting memories that will stay with you long after you've left the city.

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This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link.

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The Perfect 2 or 3 Days in Verona Itinerary

Last Updated on January 22, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Verona is truly one of the most enchanting medieval cities in Italy which makes planning a Verona itinerary one of the best things to do when visiting Northern Italy. 

The city is the home of Romeo and Juliet, has incredible landmarks, and is the beginning of a wonderful off-the-radar trip in the Veneto region. Many skip Verona and head to Venice instead, but spending time in Romantic Verona is a wonderfully pleasant experience in itself. 

Verona itself is quite small, making 2 to 3 days in Verona sufficient to then make your way to explore the surrounding areas and region.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Verona?

If you’re wondering how many days to spend in Verona but only have one day to allot for seeing the city, you’ll still have enough time to experience the main sights and enjoy the splendor that Verona has to offer.

If you have 2 days in Verona, you will be able to see the vast majority of the site the city has to offer at a fairly leisurely pace.

This way you’ll have enough time to explore the city center, acquaint yourself better with the city and local ways, and not be too tired to continue a trip. 

For those who are able to budget 3 days to visit Verona, you will also be able to have some time to explore some highlights nearby, such as on a day trip to beautiful Lake Garda.

Getting To & Around Verona

Getting to the city center is quite convenient whether you’re flying in or taking a train, making it a perfect short trip or weekend destination.

If you’re flying into Verona, you’ll most likely be arriving at the Valerio Catullo Airport. The Verona airport is located 10 km southwest of the city center and offers a few international routes yearly, frequent Italian routes as well as many international summer routes. 

If you prefer to skip the hefty cost of a taxi into the city, take the Verona Airport bus ATV that will bring you directly to the Verona Porta Nuova train station in just under 20 minutes.

From here it’s about a 15-minute walk into the city center but there are also plenty of local bus options as well. Tickets for the shuttle are €7 and can be purchased either online , at the airport, or on the bus. 

For those taking the train into Verona from any other Italian city (or maybe even another country), the Verona Porta Nuova station is well-connected with the Trenitalia and Italo train lines.

You can reach Verona from Milan in under an hour and a half, Verona from Venice in an hour, and Rome to Verona in a little over 4 hours. Upon arrival at the train station, the magical city center is only about a 15-minute walk away. You can view train schedules here.

2 to 3-Day Verona Itinerary

On this itinerary you’ll fully experience everything that the city (and maybe outside) has to offer. From feeling the fairy-tale ambience at the home of Romeo and Juliet to the gorgeous gardens and nature the city boasts, you’ll be glad that you gave this city a chance.

If you want to learn more about the city with a guide consider taking a tour such as this history tour , this food tour or this winery tour depending on your interests.

Day 1 – The City Center

While the city center of Verona isn’t incredibly big, it has a grand feeling to it. Just walking along the Adige river and seeing the mountains that surround you makes you feel like you’re in a different time. 

Day 1 will take you through the main sights of the city center and offer a wonderful first day and stroll through the city of Verona.

Torre dei Lamberti

Start your day with an incredible panoramic view from atop the Torre dei Lamberti – or the Lamberti Tower in English. Located in Piazza delle Erbe in the city center, this medieval tower provides incredible views of the adjacent Piazza dei Signori, the Verona Cathedral, the Verona Arena and more.

Built in the 12th century, this is the tallest tower in Verona and it is truly a focal point of the city’s skyline.

There is a small entry fee to get to the top of the tower, however, there is also an elevator so you don’t need to climb hundreds of rickety steps and can conserve your energy for your further Verona exploration. You can pre-book tickets here or they are included with a Verona Card which includes access to several attractions in the city.

There is no denying that starting your day with this kind of view is one of the best things to do in Verona.

Before making your way to the next stop, make a pit stop in Piazza dei Signori to take in the Scaliger Tombs, an above-ground mausoleum for the Scaligeri family dating back to the 14th Century.

Juliet’s House “Casa di Giulietta”

Directly in the center of the city on Via Cappello, you’ll find the Casa di Giulietta. While the story of Romeo and Juliet as we know it, written by Shakespeare is fictional, the house that he took inspiration from isn’t, as well as the sentiments people bring to it today. 

Juliet’s House and most famously, her balcony, are easily one of the main attractions to see when visiting Verona. Ironically, the balcony itself wasn’t added to the house until the 20th century, whereas the house dates back to the 13th century. Just below the balcony is a golden statue of Juliet herself, and the fable has it that if you rub the statue, love is on its way!

Inside the house, you’ll find a museum that offers abundant information on the Romeo and Juliet tale as well as the building. The house itself is also decorated in an accurate 16th-17th century style to reflect what it was like in the era of Romeo and Juliet.

It’s quite an inspiring and touching place to be, witnessing lovers and hopeless lovers visit the statue, leave their notes, and ask Juliet for her love advice.

While it’s free to enter the courtyard and see the balcony, there is a fee to enter the museum. Keep in mind to arrive early and wait in queues as this is an extremely popular attraction with very little space.

Arena di Verona

It isn’t a trip to another Italian city without some sort of arena, is it? Located in the main square of central Verona, Piazza Bra, you’ll find the third-largest Roman amphitheater, with a maximum hold of 25,000 people. 

Built in 30 CE and made of 44 levels, the Verona Arena truly encompasses the mass level that ancient Rome lived and built society. Just like any other ancient Roman arena, the Verona Arena was mainly used for gladiator games, and visiting the arena itself offers an unreal experience picturing the way things once were.

The arena itself is quite impressive just to look at from the outside but is also incredibly worth it to pay the admission fee to wander around the inside of it. With just 2 days in Verona or 3 days in Verona, the arena is somewhere that can’t be missed! 

Tickets to enter the arena can be purchased on-site or alternatively, you can purchase a Verona Card that gives you priority access. It is also possible to organise a guided tour here.

Opening hours vary seasonally as well as the day of the week & whether or not a show is scheduled.

Verona Cathedral

After about a pleasant 15-minute walk from the Verona Arena and through the center, you’ll find yourself at the Verona Cathedral (or Duomo Santa Maria Matricolare). While this cathedral isn’t as immaculate as many of the others in Italy, it still holds many gems to be explored inside. 

This Romanesque-style church was first built in 1187 and still proudly stands as an important part of the city of Verona. Inside you’ll find the pediment, as well as an interesting feature, the library. To this day, the library of the Verona Cathedral is known to be one of the oldest libraries still in rotation today, including various ancient texts! 

Whether you’re someone keen on visiting churches or not, even just exploring for a quick walk around is a beautiful experience.

Osteria il Bertoldo 

A great way to wrap up your first day in Verona is at the delicious Osteria il Bertoldo. Located just a few minutes away from the Verona Cathedral is a deliciously classic Italian meal.

From a cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious local foods, you’ll likely want to return for more!

Day 2 – Dig Deeper in Verona

Castel san pietro.

After grabbing your morning coffee and pastry (Verona is known to have exquisite cornettos and pastries), the perfect place to start your second day is with another breathtaking view of the city – at the Castel San Pietro.

Located across the Ponte Pietra, this Romanesque fortress is an excellent place to visit. If you’re up for a bit of a hike, it takes about 20 minutes from the base of the fortress to reach the top. Alternatively, there is a cable car that you can ride for a small fee.

The fortress itself may not be that interesting, however, the views are absolutely unbeatable as you will be able to get a full view of the old town of Verona and get more of a panorama that you were from the Lamberti Tower.

Palazzo Giusti and Giardino Giusti

The next stop on your second day is the Palazzo and Giardino Giusti – or the Giusti Palace and Gardens in English.

The palace and gardens are located on the east end of Verona and are a beautiful component of the city. The palace was built in the 16th century and the garden was planted in 1580, and while they’re known to Verona quite well, they’re a hidden gem on a tourist radar.

The garden is known to be one of the best examples of a classic Italian garden and is also known as one of the best Renaissance gardens in all of Europe. Once entering and exploring the large gardens, you’ll feel as if you’ve fallen into a medieval fairytale.

As for the palace, the majority of it is closed off but one section is kept open for visitors and is included in the gardens admission ticket. Tickets include an audio guide for your visit.

Ponte Scaligero (Castelvecchio Bridge)

Just about a 25-minute walk away from the Giardino and Palazzo Giusti, you’ll arrive at the Ponte Scagliero. The Ponte Scagliero is a fortified bridge linking the Citadella neighborhood to the Borgo Trento. 

Built in the 1350s, and at the time, had the largest span of any bridge in the world (it’s quite small, so imagine that!) The bridge was destroyed in 1945 by retreating German troops but was luckily rebuilt in 1951.

Castelvecchio

Directly across from the Ponte Scagliero is the Castelvecchio, meaning old castle. The Castelvecchio is the most influential military building of the Scaliger dynasty and is also an important icon representing the history of Verona. 

The castle was built in 1355 by the Della Scala family, the head of the Scaglier dynasty and the leading family of Verona in the middle ages. The castle was also damaged during World War 2 but was also renovated in the way we see it today. 

In the Castelvecchio museum, you’ll find Romanesque and Gothic sculptures as well as old gothic paintings such as Pisanello with his Madonna of the quail, which are crucial to the history of Verona. 

Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore

Not far at all from the Castelvecchio Bridge, you will find the imposing Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore. This gorgeous Romanesque-style church is well worth a visit if you’re spending 2 days exploring Verona.

The exterior of the church itself is gorgeous and beautiful to take in, however, it is known for its incredibly ornate frescoes within the interior of the church so definitely make sure you venture inside the building, as well.

For those visiting Verona because they’re Shakespeare fans, the basilica’s crypt is said to be the place the Bard set for Romeo and Juliet’s wedding.

Day 3 – Day Trip to Lake Garda

While Verona is a gorgeous city full of things to do, the Veneto region is rich in nature as well as culture. On day 3, we will head out to the famous Lake Garda for some fantastic views, and weather depending, maybe a swim. 

Lake Garda (Lago di Garda) is Italy’s largest lake and should certainly be on your travel radar. From its picturesque villages to cobblestoned streets and wonderful food, Lake Garda is truly special.

To reach Lake Garda from Verona, you can easily take a train from Verona’s Porta Nuova station. Two of the towns on Lake Garda have train stations so you can take a direct train to either, these are; Desenzano del Garda and Peschiera del Garda. 

They are just about 15 km away from each other as well as between 13-23 minutes away from the city center of Verona. 

There are also many options for guided tours such as this full-day tour.

Desenzano del Garda

Desenzano del Garda is about a 25-minute train ride away from Verona with train tickets costing just 5 euros each way with trains just about every hour. The town has been a popular tourist location for thousands of years and offers lovely walks and views as well as food. 

Take a walk along the harbor and maybe even visit the Bronze and Stone Age museum. A great way to wrap up your day is by enjoying a meal by the water at the wonderful La Taverna del Garda. 

Peschiera del Garda

If you’re looking for a closer day trip, Peschiera del Garda is a great option. Just 13 minutes away by train, with tickets at just 3 euros and trains departing every 20 minutes, Peschiera del Garda is a delight. 

Peschiera del Garda is a charming town with old winding alleys, beautiful flora, and colorful boats. The town has two parts; the new town, and the old town located within the fortified walls of the town. 

I recommend visiting the Fortress of Peschiera del Garda, as it is its own UNESCO World Heritage Site truly worth the visit. 

Where to Stay in Verona

Hotel Giulietta e Romeo – This 3-star hotel is an excellent choice for those looking for a mid-range option in Verona. They have a range of lovely rooms on offer and a great, central location for exploring the city.

Hotel Accademia – Those after a bit of luxury in Verona are sure to love this plush hotel. They have a number of beautiful, luxe rooms on offer, plenty of wonderful amenities and a perfect location for exploring all the city has to offer.

Opera Relais De Charme – If you’d like to have your own space while in Verona, then this aparthotel is a great option. It is centrally located and they have a range of apartments to choose from in varying sizes to suit all kinds of travellers.

The Hostello – If you’re travelling solo or are more budget-conscious, then this hostel is a great choice. They have a range of both dorms and private rooms available, a great location and plenty of common areas and self-catering facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Verona hotels!

Whether you’re someone already with knowledge and desire to go to Verona, or it’s somewhere new on your travel list, it truly is the epitome of medieval Italy. Enjoy this Verona itinerary and make special memories in and around the city. The views, the food, and the city are undoubtedly going to make you want to come back for more.

Are you planning on visiting Verona? Have any questions about the city? Let us know in the comments!

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About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

Hi Olivia Great article about 2-3 days in Verona. Apart from the usual tourist sights that you mention,is there much else to do in the city…we simply enjoy walking cities and stumbling across things as we come upon them…in addition my wife really loves shopping….is there a main shopping area? Or other lesser known streets with more independent retailers? Many Thanks John

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12 incredible things to do in verona [italy] in 2024.

When it comes to Italy, there really hasn’t been a place that’s disappointed me yet.

I love Rome , I adored Venice , and Turin was more than I’d ever hoped it could be. As part of my Venice trip a few years ago, I spent some time in wonderful Verona.

Verona is a place I’ve always wanted to visit, mainly because of Romeo and Juliet as it’s the setting in which the story takes place.

Being my favourite piece of Shakespeare and my favourite movie (thank you Baz Luhrmann), I was so excited to visit the city of love.

It did not disappoint.

Did you know that Verona is the fifth most visited city in Italy and 59th in the world?

So, sit back, relax as I take you through the top things to do in Verona.

Travellerspoint

Why should you visit Verona?

If you want an Italian city that’s packed with romance, beauty and culture, (plus really good gelato), then Verona is for you.

It has a heart and soul and isn’t as overpopulated as other Italian destinations such as Rome or Venice.

How to get to Verona

You can get to Verona in a variety of ways.

• ‍ Drive : If you’re from the UK or any other part of Europe, you could choose to drive to Verona. It would make part of an awesome European road trip idea. ‍
• Train: The train network in Italy is brilliant and there are trains from all over the country connecting you to Verona. I went from Venice and it wasn’t a long train ride, nor expensive one either. ‍
• Fly : Of course your other option is to fly into Verona. It’s only 10 km outside of the main city, so it’s very easy to get to and from.
• Bus: You can get the Aerobus which connects the city and the airport, or the Verona Porta Nuova railway station leaves every 20 minutes. It’s only a fifteen-minute journey costing €6. You can buy tickets from a machine at the airport, or buy on board for a slightly higher cost.

When is the best time to visit Verona?

The best time to visit Verona is between late May to early October, but of course, the summer months will be peak time so if you hate crowds, then it’s better to head in the Autumn seasons where the weather is cooler and the crowds are lower.

I visited in peak time however and I was fine with the crowds. It’s not as crowded as say, Venice or Rome.

How long should you stay in Verona?

For me, Verona isn’t a week-long destination. Rather it’s the perfect spot for a city break which means 2 to 3 nights is sufficient enough.

3 nights is optimal! But you could do four if you really want to relax and take day trips (to Venice could be one!)

12 Wonderful Things To Do in Verona Italy

Okay, now it’s time for the part you came for, the list of great things to do in Verona!

When it comes to what to do in Verona, you are actually spoilt for choice. A lot of the best Verona attractions are romantic, so open your heart and you’ll have an amazing time.

1. Visit Juliet's House

This is probably one of the top things to do in Verona (if not the top!). Juliet's house is like a museum that basically tells the fictional Shakespeare story of Romeo and Juliet.

As you walk through the house you will read sections of the play in each room as it tells the story. It’s a gothic style 1300s house and it’s said to have inspired Shakespeare.

As you walk in there is a wall where people have written love letters or phrases to their loved ones. It’s basically a graffiti wall. But since it’s been a few years since I went there, I am unsure as to whether it’s still in existence, so if you know, then let me know!

There is a statue of Juliet in the garden area, and you’re supposed to kiss her for good luck in love.

The highlight of Juliet’s house is the balcony in which you can recreate your very own “Romeo, Romeo, where there art thou Romeo?” and have someone take your picture from below. It’s good fun, so stay light-hearted!

If you’re a fan of the play and the story of Romeo and Juliet, then you’ll like this visit. If you don’t then I don’t think you’ll be a fan. It’s all about romance.

The names Montecchi and Capuleti (from which we get the Capulets and Montagues) were at the time genuine rival political factions, and it is possible to visit their respective houses as well.

2. Visit the Church in which Romeo and Juliet got married

Okay okay, I know the whole Romeo and Juliet thing isn’t real, but I did say I loved the play, so this church was “supposedly” where they got married, so I wanted to visit it as such.

The church is called Basilica di San Zeno and despite the whole marriage, it’s a beautiful church with lovely gardens and worth a visit just for that. They also hold masses.

3. Eat A LOT of gelato

Italians are famous for it, and they make the best gelato in the world. Verona delivers well on the gelato front. It gets warm in Verona, so I would be eating as much as you possibly could.

It’s typically around 2 euro for a cone in Verona (tourist prices), but there are lots of flavors to choose from.

I don’t have a typical shop in mind, I prefer pondering upon random ones.

4. Check out the Verona Arena

This is often known as Verona's version of the Colosseum. Back in its peak days (circa 130-1100 AD), it was one of the biggest of its kind in the world and could seat up to 30,000 people.

Today, each year, the arena hosts the Arena Opera festival which hosts famous operatic singers. Both then and now it attracts an impressive crowd of visitors from around the world.

Get your Arena-De-Verona Tickets right here!

5. Visit the brilliant Castelvecchio

Castelvecchio is a brilliant castle in Verona, and easily one of the best places to visit in Verona. It’s now home to a museum which provides lots of interesting history and context of the castle.

An interesting fact is that during World War II, the castle suffered serious damages as in 1945 after the Allies had bombed the eastern wing of the castle, the Germans on the run blew the bridge up!

But the Museum tour is interesting and fun and you can see a weapons room which has a lot of interesting items too.

There are also some beautiful viewpoints that overlook the bridge and river, and these make for romantic photos, so ask someone to take your photo together, or bring a tripod!

We headed early and there weren’t that many people around, which was quite nice. I felt like I had a whole castle to myself!

Ps, there is actually a wine vineyard around here, which is another one of the great things to do in Verona if you’re a wine lover (I am a wine lover!)

6. Visit the stunning Giardino Giusti

If you’re in seek of a wonderful picnic spot in Verona, then look no further. The Giardino Giusti oozes beauty, romance, and colour!

It’s particularly beautiful in the summer and spring months.

These grounds of Renaissance symbolism of the classic Italian garden will give you the chance to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the 16th century when it was once home to one of the most prestigious academies of the city.

7. Go Souvenir shopping

There are lots of great places to find gifts back home for family and friends. Whether it’s a bottle of Limoncello or a bag of pasta (yes that’s a thing when you go to Italy-- I bought a fancy colourful bag about 8 years ago and still have it- haha).

Or if you want shot glasses, travel bracelets, or whatever, simply wander the streets to discover lots of ideas.

Verona is also filled with LOTS of high-end shops, so if you fancy on splurging on a designer item for yourself, then it’s the place to do so.

8. Romantic Italian dinner for two

When it comes to romantic things to do in Verona, this is top of the list (especially if you’re not a Romeo and Juliet fan).

Verona is a romantic setting for an Italian dinner for two. It’s no surprise that lots of people opt to visit Verona for Valentine's vacation.

I didn’t get the chance to have my romantic meal in Verona, but TripAdvisor is bursting with lots of ideas to suit all price ranges. From fancy to budget, you can dine for two in a romantic setting!

9. Head high up at Torre dei Lamberti

This is an 84 m high tower in Verona. It’s just a short walk from Juliet's famous balcony, so it’s a perfect place to visit after falling in love with the essence of Romeo and Juliet.

Basically, in every city I go to, I love finding a high point that gives me a 360 view of the surroundings, and that is the place in Verona.

The views are beautiful and allow you to appreciate the beauty of the city from above.

It’s open every day apart from Christmas and your ticket allows you entrance to the Gallery of Modern Art too.

You can find out more details more details here .

It’s only 8 euro to visit and 5 euro for students, so perfect for those who visit Verona on a budget.

10. Visit the Roman theatre

The Roman theatre is not the Verona Arena (which is often confused). Rather it’s another outstanding piece of beauty.

It was built around the 1st century and today remains the stage, the orchestra, the auditorium, and some galleries.

When you visit you can get a guidebook explaining all about history, or you can even arrange a guided tour, which might be good if you are interested in the history.

11. Take a day trip to Lake Garda from Verona

If you’re looking for a day trip from Verona, then Lake Garda is a must do.

Lake Garda is only around 1 hour and 15 minutes from Verona and you can rent a car and drive there, or take a private taxi.

Lake Garda is known for its sheer beauty, wonderful restaurants, great architecture and much more. You could easily spend a day by the lake relaxing with great food and a glass of wine.

It’s a beautiful area for a day out, and since you’re so close, it would be rude not to visit!

This is a cool tour that combines a wine tour too!

Perhaps you’d like to stay an evening at the Lake, in which case you can check out accommodation options here .

12. Take a Verona food and wine tour

When we think of Italy, we think of two things (among others), amazing Italian food and delicious wine. Well, if you want to take the fuss out of experiencing both, then take a guided tour. (This is a great one!)

A tour will take you to all the best spots to allow you to sample the best food and the best wine Verona has to offer.

This means you don’t need to worry about missing out on any of the good stuff!

Where to stay in Verona: My top 3 hotel recommendations

Below I discuss my favourite hotels in Verona and where I recommend you should stay on your visit to beautiful Verona!

1. Hotel Colomba d'Oro

Stunning interior architecture both inside and out, this hotel oozes class and sophistication. It’s so beautiful!

It has an authentic Italian feel to it and it’s only 150 m from the Verona Arena, so brilliant location in the historical centre.

Breakfast is included and I think at just £105 (ish) per night, it’s an absolute steal for its location, beauty, and everything! (that’s 50 each!)

Check prices here

2. Hotel Gabbia D'Oro

This is a 5-star hotel that oozes luxury, so if you’re looking for a romantic place to splash the case, then this is a good choice.

Just look at the detail in every element of this hotel, it’s amazing. One of the most beautiful I have seen.

It’s also in the heart of the action and includes breakfast.

But, since it’s luxury, it’s a little pricey at around £200 per night!

3. Hotel Antica Porta Leona & SPA

Want a romantic hotel that has beautiful rooms, a great location, AND a spa? Then I’ve found it!

Beautifully designed rooms, in the heart of Verona, it’s no surprise this place books out quickly!

Prices start at just £107 per night for two people with Spa access. I think that’s a STEAL!

Is the Verona Card worth buying?

This is always a question I get asked for various city break destinations, and in this case, the price of the Verona card is quite appealing .

You can get a card for 24 hours or 48 hours, and it’s 20 euro for the day or 25 for two days.

This includes a variety of things such as free or reduced entry to the city main museums, monuments, and churches. You can travel by ATV city bus as well!

Actually, I think it is a good buy if you are speaking a couple of days in Verona. Lots of the great museums are included and even the reduced prices are good.

I don’t think you’ll need the bus, but if you do need transport, then it’s good to use the free bus service available.

It’s so cheap that I do think the Verona card is actually worth it!

Final thoughts

So there you have it, my guide on wonderful things to do in Verona. I hope that this list gives you some inspiration, and I know it’s very romantic heavy-- but Verona truly is a very romantic destination.

If you don’t go here with a lover, then you’ve got a high chance of finding love in Verona too!

If you’ve got other Verona attractions you think I should add to the list, then please comment below.

For help planning the rest of your Italian adventure, here are my other guides:

• Best Luxury Hotels In The Dolomites
• How To Visit Rome On A Budget
• How To Spend 3 Days In Turin
• How To Visit Venice On A Budget

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Verona: Tourist & Travel Guide from Italy Heaven

Discover this attractive city break destination, famous for opera in its Roman arena, but with lots more to offer too

Verona, in the Veneto region of north-east Italy, is one of Italy’s loveliest towns, famous for its summer opera season . This has been a thriving and successful town for most of its history, and today smart shops and cafes fill the attractive medieval lanes of the historic centre. Verona is a popular day-trip from Lake Garda, and an appealing destination for weekend breaks or longer stays. There’s a lot to see here, from Roman ruins to the so-called ‘Juliet’s balcony’, and the town is also well-connected for exploring the surrounding area, including destinations like Lake Garda, Vicenza, Padua and Venice.

Verona was an important Roman town and is rich in archaeological sites, the grandest of which is the Roman Arena , where operas are now performed in the summer. It’s easy to spend a long time simply exploring the narrow streets lined with handsome palazzi that make up the historic centre. The town’s museums and churches contain fine works of art, while the ruined Roman theatre over the river has excellent views from the terraces where the ancients watched plays.

If you’re planning a longer stay, or want to see more of Italy, Verona is usefully located for travel to Venice or to lovely Lake Garda . There is a lot to see in this part of Italy, and it is easy to travel around by public transport. Combining Verona with another local destination (perhaps the lake) would make a great and varied two-centre holiday.

Things to see

Verona’s historic centre ( centro storico ) lies within the town walls in a tight curve of the Adige river. Entering town past the Porta Nuova gateway near the railway station, you head along wide car-filled Corso Porta Nuova before passing through the attractive fourteenth-century arches of the Portoni della Brà and entering the historic part of town. Immediately inside the town wall is Piazza Brà, a large open space dominated by the imposing Roman Arena . Verona’s tourist information office is nearby, set in the old town wall to the right. Via Mazzini, an elegant pedestrian street paved with shiny Verona marble, heads straight through the heart of town to Piazza Erbe, Verona’s most attractive square. It’s a good idea to have a map or guidebook at this point, and to dive into the pretty historic lanes uncovering Verona’s charms. > More about Verona tourist attractions and sightseeing

The Romeo and Juliet trail

Shakespeare is extremely unlikely ever to have set foot in Verona. However, his source for the plot of Romeo and Juliet was derived at several removes from an Italian story set in the town, featuring two feuding families with names similar to those of historical Veronese dynasties. So there is a connection, but whether you wish to feel that the real town of Verona has any direct link to Shakespeare’s work is up to you. It doesn’t stop the town from marketing Romeo and Juliet postcards, mugs, tea-towels, sliding pens and more. There is a busy Shakespearian tourist trail, and (mind-bogglingly) you can post a letter to fictional dead character Juliet at ‘Juliet’s tomb’, or email her at ‘Juliet’s balcony’. The city organises various ‘romantic’ initiatives, including events around Valentine’s Day.

Travel to Verona

Verona is very easy to reach from other parts of Italy and Europe. It’s on a major railway line – with trains travelling as far as Paris – and the town has an international airport very close by, and several other airports within a couple of hours travel . > Read about Verona Airport and transport links to and within the town

Eating and drinking

Verona’s two main hubs for sitting down with a drink or a light meal are Piazza Brà and Piazza Erbe. Of the two, Piazza Erbe has a much nicer atmosphere and you’ll find lots of locals at the appealing but somewhat pricey bars lining the square. Piazza Brà is more of a thoroughfare where you’ll pay a lot for a rather touristy experience. However, if you’re in a hurry or on a budget you’ll find two useful eating places here – speedy self-service restaurant Brek and the Italian fast food chain Spizzico.

For cheaper or more atmospheric meals, try wandering through the small lanes of the centro storico . Small restaurants and bars are scattered secretively through the centre – try spotting them at lunchtime when busy crowds of locals will indicate the best food. A wine bar will often serve a few cheap pasta dishes as well as a range of usually economical wines.

Restaurants

For a charming and authentic feel, join local workers in the cosy little Antica Osteria Al Duomo (Via Duomo, 7; closed Sundays), where you can eat good local dishes and enjoy cheap local wine. Another spot for an atmospheric meal is Piazza Erbe, the attractive market square. Along one side of the piazza is a row of cafe-bar-restaurants where you can sit at outside tables and enjoy a light meal or drinks. These establishments aren’t very cheap, but their tables occupy prime positions; it’s a lovely spot to sit on a sunny day and watch Verona go by.

For a cheap and filling meal, a good option is the Ristorante-Pizzeria San Matteo Church (Vicolo del Guasto, close to Porta Borsari), which, as its name indicates, is actually located in a former church. There are memorial tablets on the wall, a crypt displayed through glass floor panels, and dinner tables where the high altar would have stood. Locals come here in their lunch hour for a quick self-service meal, but there is also waiter service with a long and varied pizza menu as well as seafood alternatives.

Other good Verona restaurants include the Ristorante Sant’Eufemia (Via Emilei 21), close to the church of the same name. There’s a misleadingly off-putting multilingual menu outside but inside the restaurant is like the ground floor of a 19th-century mansion – you sit on fine old chairs – with a serious and secretive air, attentive service and good meals (including house wine) at a modest cost. Ristorante Tabià (Via Zambelli 14; closed Mondays), is a cheerful restaurant serving pizzas in a large, rustic-style interior. Osteria la Vecchia Fontanina (Piazzetta Chiavica, near Piazza Erbe) is is a welcoming and atmospheric place to eat in a central location.

Verona accommodation

Verona has some good central hotels, but it’s not a cheap place to stay and it is worth booking in advance. My Verona hotel selection includes an excellent, reliable four-star, some budget options and one or two really special, romantic places to stay. > See a selection of the best places to stay in Verona

• Verona: an intro
• Hotels & B&Bs
• Airports & travel
• Tourist sights
• Opera at the Arena

Useful external links

Verona Card

Verona Airport

Verona Arena

Veneto destinations

• Veneto region
• Abano Terme
• Bassano del Grappa
• Brenta Canal
• Castelfranco Veneto
• Concordia Sagittaria
• Cortina d’Ampezzo
• Lido di Jesolo
• Montegrotto Terme
• Portogruaro
• Sottomarina
• Venetian Lagoon
• Veneto art & architecture itinerary
• Veneto villas – Vicenza: La Rotonda & Villa Valmarana ai Nani
• Veneto villas – Villa Pisani & Villa Foscarini Rossi, Strà
• Venice Airport
• Treviso Airport

Three glorious ways to explore Italy by train

E arly autumn is a wonderful time to explore Italy, but especially if you are on a train , either moving between towns and cities, where temperatures are perfect for urban sightseeing, or rolling through countryside – Umbria’s pastoral hills, say, or Sicily’s wild interior – that is at its seasonal best.

There was a time, of course, when train travel in Italy was a challenge. Quaint, yes, but often ramshackle, unreliable and crowded. Those days are gone. Local, rural trains can still be quaint – but in a good way – while high-speed services between major cities, along with online booking procedures, are as good as any in Europe.

Italy is made for train travel, thanks to the lie of the land and that famous shape: you can cover long north-to-south distances quickly on flat coastal main lines, or travel from west to east – Turin, Milan, Verona, Venice – across the plains of the Po.

But then it pays to pause and meander along little regional lines, from the network that links the Italian Lakes and valleys of the Alps or the scenic rural railways that thread through Umbria, Tuscany, Abruzzo, Sicily and Puglia.

Below we have outlined three itineraries between key Italian cities, but not on high-speed, non-stopping services but rather using slower trains that take in less well-known but first-rank towns filled with art, food, architecture, culture and other of Italy’s many temptations.

It’s easy to plan and execute Italian rail trips under your own steam. Italians are generally helpful and have more than enough English to point you towards the railway station. Travel in autumn and you’ll also enjoy less crowded cities and often better rates in hotels.

But if you want someone to do the booking for you, or be on the spot throughout to help out, we have listed several tour operators who specialise in tailor-made or small-group escorted rail journeys.

Rail fares listed below are a rough guide to the cheapest advance tickets purchased online. Prices vary and tickets bought on the day will almost certainly cost more. Journey times are averages; trips may be slower – or quicker. Hotel rates are “from” prices for double rooms.

Turin to Florence

Let’s start in Turin ( turismotorino.org ), because if you want to travel to Italy from the UK by rail, the route to Piedmont’s fine Baroque capital is the obvious one, thanks to direct connections from Paris (6hr; £35). Stay in the historic Grand Hotel Sitea ( grandhotelsitea.it ; doubles from £90), not Turin’s fanciest accommodation but central and excellent value.

This unsung city is definitely worth a day or more – visit its museums, elegant squares, palaces and historic cafés before taking a slow but magnificently scenic train through the Alps to Ventimiglia (4hr; £15) via Cuneo.

This leaves you on the Italian Riviera with fast options south to Genoa and Pisa. Ignore these and take your time. Alassio has the best beach on the first stretch of the Riviera, with Finale Ligure a good overnight bet if big-city Genoa is not for you.

Better still is Camogli ( welcomecamogli.it ), 45 minutes south of Genoa by train (£3.60) and lovely at any time of year. Stay near the waterfront at the Hotel Cenobio dei Dogi ( cenobio.it ; from £140). 

Ninety minutes south again – with a change of trains at Sestri Levante, another charming little resort – are the Cinque Terre ( cinqueterre.it ), five impossibly pretty but very busy coastal villages, all served by train. Manarola and Vernazza are the standouts but visit early or, better still, make nearby Levanto your base. Be sure to take a boat ride along the cliff-edged coast ( navigazionegolfodeipoeti.it ).

Continue south on the main-coast line, but hop off at Vezzano to head inland to Aulla, where a superb little line runs through the mountains to Lucca (2hr; £9), a magnificent town ( turismo.lucca.it ) and – given its rail links – a good base for visiting nearby Pisa, Pistoia and Prato, and for onward trains to Florence (1hr 20min; £8) or Rome (3hr; £24). 

Within Lucca’s old walls – which is where you want to be – the Hotel Ilaria ( hotelilaria.com ; from £97) is a long-established mid-range choice, with the revamped Grande Universe Lucca ( grandeuniverselucca.com ; from £190) the best smarter option.

Venice to Florence

Fly or ride one of several scenic rail routes through Switzerland and the Alps to arrive in Venice. After a few days in the city, choose one of two slow-train options to Florence: the first via Ferrara (1hr; £8.50), an unsung medieval and Renaissance gem ( ferrarainfo.com ), and then Ravenna (1hr 10min; £6.50), celebrated for the extraordinary Byzantine mosaics adorning many of its churches ( turismo.ra.it ). 

Trains via Faenza and Borgo San Lorenzo will then take you to Florence (2hr 30min; £11.50) on a scenic line through the Apennines.

A superb, but busier alternative takes you first to unmissable Vicenza (45min; £5.85) for a day’s sightseeing focused on this tiny city’s Palladian architecture ( vicenzae.org ) before a short hop to Verona (40min; £5.30) and two or more days exploring the city’s churches, picturesque old centre and one of Europe’s finest Roman amphitheatres ( turismoverona.eu ). 

Stay at the comfortable but no-frills Hotel Accademia ( hotelaccademiaverona.it ; £97), a central four-star, or more-frills Victoria ( nh-hotels.com/en/hotel/nh-collection-palazzo-verona ; from £146).

Then head for Mantova (46min; £3.75), barely visited but beautifully situated on a trio of lakes (take a boat trip), and with a magnificent ducal palace, sleepy squares and lovely arcaded streets that will keep you happy for two days or more ( turismo.mantova.it ). Stay at the Hotel Broletto ( hotelbroletto.it ; from £110) or the Palazzo Castiglioni ( palazzocastiglionimantova.com ; from £236) for a treat.

Trains run to Florence (3hr; £25.50) via a change in Bologna but consider a roundabout route with a morning or more in both Parma (for its food, cathedral and shopping) and Modena (for its cathedral, museums and Albinelli market) before taking a slow train to Florence from Bologna via a change at Prato (1hr 12min; £35) – itself worth a morning – and another captivating ride through the Apennines.

Florence to Rome

This is a slow and easily varied itinerary for a journey that takes 90 minutes (£14) by high-speed train. It offers a great way to see the countryside and hill-towns of Umbria ( umbriatourism.it ), plus two fine Tuscan towns, along with a scenic ride through the uplands of Abruzzo ( abruzzotourism.it ), one of Italy’s least-known regions.

First stop is Arezzo (1hr 10min; £9; arezzoturismo.it ) to admire its main square, Piazza Grande, and the frescoes of Piero della Francesca in the church of San Francesco. Then it’s a 20-minute train journey to Cortona for the night – you’ll need a bus or taxi for the 20-minute ride from the station at Camucia-Cortona – followed by a morning to explore the sublime medieval town. Stay at the Hotel San Michele ( hotelsanmichele.net ; from £65).

Then into Umbria, past Lake Trasimeno, perhaps with a day in Perugia ( turismo.comune.perugia.it ) for its Etruscan- and Roman-era streets and the art-filled Galleria Nazionale. Then a definite overnight in pretty Assisi ( visit-assisi.it ), full of picturesque corners and home to one of Europe’s finest religious and artistic monuments, the Basilica di San Francesco. Stay at the no-nonsense Pallotta ( hotelpallotta.it ; from £50) or the smarter Fontebella ( fontebellahotel-assisi.com ; from £116).

Hop off the train a few minutes south of Assisi for an hour or so in Spello, a maze of medieval streets, and then give a day to Spoleto ( spoletocard.it ), perhaps Umbria’s loveliest hill-town, before the train on to Terni. Treat yourself in Spoleto with a stay at the Palazzo Leti ( palazzoleti.com ; from £106) or save money with a night at Il Panciolle ( ilpanciolle.it ; from £64). 

From Terni take the scenic line south for a night in Sulmona (3hr; £18) via a change in L’Aquila. Sulmona ( visit-sulmona.it ) is a delight, all airy piazzas and ancient streets, usually with not a visitor in sight. From Sulmona it’s an easy train ride to Rome (2hr 30min; £11) via Avezzano.

Have you enjoyed Italy by rail? Which is your favourite journey? Please share your experiences below

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Sicily's volcanic eruptions causes flight disruptions, temporary airport shutdown

• Eruptions at Italy's Mount Etna and the smaller Stromboli volcano spewed hot ash and lava.
• The eruption is only affecting Sicily and its nearby islands.
• Catania Airport is Sicily's busiest airport and Italy's 6th busiest airport.

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Travelers headed to Sicily and Stromboli in southern Italy are facing disruptions due to volcanic activity.

Eruptions at Italy's Mount Etna and the smaller Stromboli volcano spewed hot ash and lava, raising alert levels on the Mediterranean island of Sicily and forcing a temporary shutdown of Catania Airport on Friday.

Etna, one of the world's most active volcanoes, has seen intense activity in recent days, lighting up the sky near the city of Catania, while Stromboli off the northern Sicilian coast has spilled lava into the sea. The eruption is only affecting Sicily and its nearby islands.

Italy's civil protection agency issued its top, red alert for Stromboli, warning the situation could deteriorate. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and island just off the northern coast of Sicily, Stromboli attracts tourists for its volcanoes and beaches. The island has been battling overtourism over the past few years, as an average of 2,000 visitors arrive by boat to the island's only pier each afternoon.

Civil Protection Minister Nello Musumeci said Stromboli was "under surveillance," adding that authorities were making sure evacuation plans were ready in case of emergency.

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Catania's Mayor Enrico Trantino issued an ordinance on Friday prohibiting the use of cycles and motorcycles for 48 hours and placed a speed limit of about 18 miles per hour "following the copious fallout of volcanic ash."

The fire brigade said they had preemptively doubled the number of firefighters on the island.

Around Catania, on the eastern coast of Sicily, residents and authorities moved to clean up the city after streets and cars were left smothered in black volcanic ash, while the nearby airport was closed temporarily.

Catania Airport is Sicily's busiest airport and Italy's 6th busiest airport, with nearly 9 million passengers each year.

"The runway at Catania Airport is unusable due to the volcanic ash fall. Both arrivals and departures are suspended," the airport said in a statement. As of late Friday night in Italy, 69 flights were canceled, mainly flights from low-cost European airlines EasyJet and Ryanair, according to FlightAware . Twenty-seven percent of its departing flights and 31% of its arriving flights were delayed.

Many flights were being diverted to Palermo, about four hours away from Catalina by car, Euronews reported.

Around 4:30 p.m., the airport tweeted on X , formerly Twitter, that it reopened with limited operations and delays.

Contributing: Angelo Amante; editing by Crispian Balmer and Jason Neely

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .