Verona, a city steeped in history and romance, is a must-visit destination on any Italy itinerary. Made famous by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, this enchanting city offers a wealth of attractions that go far beyond its literary connections. From the historic city center to the picturesque bridges spanning the Adige River, Verona is a very walkable city that invites exploration.
As you explore Verona, you’ll discover a city that’s both historic and vibrant, with some of the best restaurants in Italy and views that will take your breath away. From the famous balcony where Juliet supposedly stood to the impressive Arena di Verona, the city is packed with sights that cater to every interest. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for unique experiences in Italy, Verona offers something for everyone. So, let’s dive into this guide to the best things to do in Verona and discover why it’s one of Italy’s most beloved destinations.
🏡 Where to Stay in Verona
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: NH Collection Palazzo Verona
- ✨ 5-Star: Due Torri Hotel
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Palace Verona
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Verona
- 💸 Cheap: StraVagante Hostel & Rooms
- 🏢 Apartment: Palazzo Monga Boutique Guesthouse
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Relais de Charme Il Sogno di Giulietta
- 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Gabbia d'Oro
💁 Top-Rated Verona Tours
- Verona Highlights Walking Tour: Explore the charming city of Verona on foot with a knowledgeable local guide. This small-group tour takes you through the city’s historic center, visiting iconic landmarks and hidden gems. You’ll discover the rich history and culture of Verona while enjoying personalized attention from your guide. https://www.viator.com/tours/Verona/Verona-Walking-Tour-Historical-Center-and-Opera-Highlights/d945-6476WALK
- Verona Arena Skip-the-line Tour: Bypass the long queues and delve into the fascinating history of Verona’s famous amphitheater. This guided tour offers insights into the arena’s Roman origins and its current use as an opera venue. You’ll learn about gladiatorial contests and explore the ancient structure’s impressive architecture. https://www.viator.com/tours/Verona/Verona-Arena-Skip-the-Line-Tour/d945-6476P17
- City Sightseeing Verona Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: Enjoy the flexibility of exploring Verona at your own pace with this convenient hop-on hop-off bus tour. The open-top double-decker bus provides panoramic views of the city’s main attractions, while audio commentary in multiple languages offers interesting facts about each site. https://www.viator.com/en-GB/tours/Verona/Verona-City-Hop-on-Hop-off-Tour/d945-6980VERONA
- Verona Moonlight Walking Tour: Experience the romantic ambiance of Verona after dark on this enchanting evening tour. Stroll through illuminated piazzas and along cobblestone streets as your guide shares captivating stories about the city’s history and legends. https://www.viator.com/tours/Verona/Moonlighted-Verona-Evening-Walking-Tour/d945-38995P6
- Dolomites Full-day Tour from Lake Garda: Venture beyond Verona to explore the breathtaking Dolomite Mountains on this full-day excursion. Admire stunning alpine scenery, visit charming mountain villages, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. https://www.viator.com/tours/Lake-Garda/Dolomites-tour-from-Lake-Garda/d27338-29282P10
Best Things To Do in Verona
Ancient wonder: Ah, Verona! This enchanting city has stolen my heart more times than I can count. Let me share some of my favorite spots that I believe you absolutely can’t miss.
1. 🏛️ Verona Arena
Operatic magic: First up, the Arena di Verona. Trust me, this ancient Roman amphitheater will take your breath away. I still remember the first time I attended an opera here on a balmy summer evening. The music, the atmosphere, the history – it’s simply magical.
Insider Tip: Book your tickets for the Verona Opera Festival well in advance. It’s popular for a reason!
Nighttime spectacle: I’ve been lucky enough to attend several performances here, and each time, I’m struck by the incredible acoustics. Even if you’re not an opera fan, the sheer spectacle of a performance in this 2000-year-old venue is worth experiencing. The way the setting sun casts a golden glow on the ancient stones as the music swells – it’s a moment you’ll never forget.
https://www.viator.com/tours/Verona/Verona-Arena-Skip-the-Line-Tour/d945-6476P17
https://www.tiqets.com/ru/verona-arena-tickets-l146190/
2. ⛲ Piazza delle Erbe
Vibrant square: Next on my must-visit list is Piazza delle Erbe. This bustling square is the beating heart of Verona. I love grabbing a cappuccino at one of the outdoor cafes and watching the world go by. The colorful buildings and historic monuments surrounding the square make for a perfect backdrop.
Market delights: One of my favorite things to do here is to visit the local market. The scents of fresh produce and flowers fill the air, and you can find some fantastic local specialties. I once picked up a bottle of homemade limoncello that was simply divine. Don’t forget to look up – the frescoes on the surrounding buildings are stunning.
3. 💑 Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta)
Romantic spot: Now, let’s talk about Juliet’s House. Yes, it’s touristy, but there’s something undeniably charming about it. I always get a kick out of watching visitors pose on the famous balcony.
Time Saver: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get that perfect Instagram shot.
Artistic surprise: While the connection to Shakespeare’s play is tenuous at best, the house itself is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. I particularly love the museum inside, which houses a collection of Renaissance frescoes and paintings. The courtyard, with its bronze statue of Juliet, has a magical atmosphere, especially in the early morning light.
https://www.tiqets.com/ru/juliet-s-house-tickets-l247931/
4. 🏰 Castelvecchio
Medieval marvel: Castelvecchio is a stunning fortress that often gets overlooked by visitors rushing between more famous sights. But trust me, it’s worth your time. The castle’s bridge over the Adige River is an architectural masterpiece, and the views from the ramparts are breathtaking.
Art treasure: Inside, you’ll find the Castelvecchio Museum, which houses an impressive collection of medieval and Renaissance art. I spent hours wandering through the galleries, admiring works by Mantegna, Bellini, and Veronese. The way the modern museum design interacts with the ancient castle structure is fascinating.
https://www.tiqets.com/ru/castelvecchio-museum-tickets-l251581/
5. ⛪ Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore
Romanesque beauty: This church is a bit off the beaten path, but it’s one of Verona’s most beautiful. The intricate bronze doors and the stunning rose window are architectural marvels that never fail to impress me.
Acoustic wonder: I once attended a concert here, and the acoustics were incredible. The crypt, said to be the setting for Romeo and Juliet’s secret marriage, has a haunting beauty. Don’t miss the altarpiece by Andrea Mantegna – it’s a masterpiece of Renaissance art that I could stare at for hours.
6. 🌿 Giardino Giusti
Peaceful retreat: These Renaissance gardens are a perfect escape from the bustling city. The manicured hedges, grottoes, and fountains create a serene atmosphere that’s ideal for a leisurely stroll.
Sunset spot: I love coming here in the late afternoon when the light is golden and the crowds have thinned. The view from the belvedere at the top of the garden is spectacular – you can see the entire city spread out before you. It’s a great spot for a picnic or just to sit and soak in the beauty of Verona.
Things to do in Verona with Kids
Family fun: Traveling with little ones? No worries! Verona has plenty to offer for families. Here are some of my favorite kid-friendly activities that I’ve enjoyed with my nieces and nephews.
1. 🦁 Verona Zoo (Parco Natura Viva)
Wild adventure: Just a short drive from the city center, Verona Zoo is a hit with kids of all ages. I was impressed by the variety of animals and the zoo’s commitment to conservation.
Safari experience: The highlight for me was the Safari Park section, where you can drive through and see animals roaming freely. The look on my nephew’s face when a giraffe poked its head into our car window was priceless!
2. 🏔️ Torre dei Lamberti
Sky-high views: For a bird’s-eye view of Verona, head to the Torre dei Lamberti. The elevator ride to the top is exciting for kids, and the panoramic views are spectacular.
Bell tower fun: If you time your visit right, you might catch the tower’s bells ringing. It’s loud, but the kids I’ve taken have always found it thrilling. Just be prepared to cover little ears!
Free Things to Do in Verona
Budget-friendly beauty: Verona can be enjoyed without breaking the bank. Here are some of my favorite free activities that showcase the city’s charm.
1. 🌉 Ponte Pietra
Historic crossing: Bridge is one of Verona’s oldest places in Verona, and it’s absolutely charming. I love walking across it at different times of day to see how the light changes the view of the Adige River and the city skyline.
Photo op: For the best photos, I recommend visiting at sunset. The way the golden light hits the stone arches is simply magical. There’s a lovely little wine bar at one end of the bridge where you can enjoy a glass of local Valpolicella while watching the world go by.
2. 🎭 Piazza Bra
City’s living room: Piazza Bra is Verona’s largest square and often considered the city’s ‘living room’. While the Arena di Verona, which dominates the square, requires a ticket to enter, the piazza itself is free to enjoy. It’s a vibrant space filled with cafes, restaurants, and often street performers.
People watching paradise: The Liston, a wide sidewalk lined with cafes, is perfect for people watching. Grab a seat at one of the outdoor tables (ordering a coffee is polite if you plan to linger), and watch the world go by. The mix of locals and tourists creates a lively atmosphere that’s quintessentially Italian.
3. 🕰️ Explore Via Sottoriva
Time travel: This medieval street feels like stepping back in time. The low-vaulted portico creates a unique atmosphere that I find utterly charming.
Foodie haven: While walking is free, I always struggle to resist the tempting aromas wafting from the traditional eateries along this street. If you do decide to indulge, the authentic flavors are well worth it!
4. ⚰️ Arche Scaligere
Gothic grandeur: The Arche Scaligere, or Scaliger Tombs, are a group of Gothic funerary monuments celebrating the Scaliger family, who ruled Verona in the 13th and 14th centuries. These ornate structures are a masterpiece of Gothic art, featuring intricate sculptures and elaborate canopies.
Time travel: Standing before these monuments, you can almost feel the power and prestige of medieval Verona. While you can’t enter the enclosure without a ticket, the exterior view is impressive enough. It’s a unique opportunity to witness the artistry and ambition of a bygone era, right in the heart of the city.
Seasonal Activities
Year-round charm: Verona is beautiful in every season, but certain times of year offer unique experiences. Here’s what I love about Verona throughout the year.
🎄 Christmas in Verona
Festive magic: Verona during the holidays is like stepping into a fairytale. The city is adorned with twinkling lights, and the Christmas markets in Piazza dei Signori are a feast for the senses.
Warm delights: On a chilly December evening, I love warming up with a cup of vin brulé (mulled wine) and some freshly roasted chestnuts from a street vendor. The scent of cinnamon and cloves in the air always puts me in a festive mood.
Verona’s Christmas Markets (seasonal):
Festive cheer: If you’re visiting Verona during the holiday season, don’t miss the Christmas markets. While purchasing items costs money, browsing the stalls and soaking in the festive atmosphere is completely free. The main market is usually held in Piazza dei Signori.
Seasonal magic: The markets transform Verona into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights, the scent of mulled wine in the air, and often live music or carolers. It’s a magical way to experience the city, even if you don’t buy anything.
🎭 Summer Festivals and Events
Cultural extravaganza: Summer in Verona is all about the festivals. The Opera Festival at the Arena is world-renowned, but don’t miss out on the street performances and open-air concerts scattered throughout the city.
Alfresco dining: This is the perfect time to enjoy Verona’s outdoor dining scene. I love nothing more than a long, lazy dinner at a piazza-side restaurant, watching the world go by as the sun sets.
Arena di Verona Opera Festival (June to September)
This is the most prominent summer event in Verona, typically running from mid-June to early September. The 101st edition in 2024 will feature 47 evenings of magnificent opera performances in the largest open-air opera house in the world. Some highlights include:
- Puccini’s “Turandot”
- Verdi’s “Aida”
- Rossini’s “The Barber of Seville”
- Bizet’s “Carmen”
- Puccini’s “La Bohème” and “Tosca”
🌸 Spring Blooms in Giardino Giusti
Nature’s awakening: Springtime brings Giardino Giusti to life with a riot of colors. The perfectly manicured Renaissance garden is a peaceful oasis away from the bustling city center.
Mindful moments: I often come here for a bit of quiet reflection. Find a secluded bench, breathe in the scent of blooming flowers, and let the stress melt away.
🍇 Autumn Wine Tours
Harvest season: Fall is my favorite time to explore Verona’s renowned wine region. The vineyards are a patchwork of reds and golds, and there’s a festive atmosphere as the grape harvest gets underway.
Tasting experiences: I highly recommend taking a tour of a local winery. Learning about the winemaking process, wandering through the sun-dappled vines, and of course, sampling some world-class wines – it’s a perfect autumn day out.
Day Trips from Verona
Beyond the city: While Verona has plenty to keep you busy, the surrounding area is full of gems worth exploring. Here are a couple of my favorite day trips that I always recommend to friends visiting the region.
1. 💦 Lake Garda
Lakeside bliss: Just a short drive from Verona, Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake and a perfect escape from the city. I’ve spent many a happy day here, soaking up the sun and the stunning scenery.
Top Tip: Take a boat tour around the lake. The views of the surrounding mountains and charming lakeside towns are breathtaking.
Sirmione’s charm: One of my favorite spots on Lake Garda is the town of Sirmione. Its thermal baths are perfect for a bit of pampering, and the 13th-century Scaliger Castle is a must-visit for history buffs. I once spent a whole afternoon exploring its nooks and crannies, imagining life in medieval times.
https://www.viator.com/tours/Lake-Garda/Dolomites-tour-from-Lake-Garda/d27338-29282P10
https://www.viator.com/tours/Verona/SIRMIONE-AND-LAKE-GARDA-TOUR/d945-6476P18
2. 🚤 Venice
Canal city: Venice needs no introduction, and at just an hour away by train, it makes for an easy and unforgettable day trip from Verona.
Mask shopping: One of my favorite things to do in Venice is to shop for traditional Venetian masks. The artistry is incredible, and they make for unique souvenirs. I still have the intricate gold and blue mask I bought on my first trip hanging on my wall at home.
Time Saver: Book your train tickets in advance and start early to make the most of your day in Venice.
The Best Things to Do in Verona: Summary
As we conclude our journey through the enchanting city of Verona, it’s clear that this gem of Italy offers an abundance of experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you’re planning to spend the day or making it a stop on a longer trip around Italy, Verona’s compact size makes it possible to see many of its highlights in one day. From the historic city center to the breathtaking views from Castel San Pietro, from the Roman Arena to the charming streets lined with some of the best restaurants in Italy, Verona captivates visitors with its blend of history, culture, and romance.
Don’t forget to purchase the Verona Card, which covers many of the city’s top attractions and can save you both time and money as you explore. Whether you arrive by train or as part of a day trip from nearby Italian cities, Verona’s accessibility and walkability make it a perfect addition to any Italy travel itinerary. So, book your tickets online, pack your walking shoes, and prepare to fall in love with one of Italy’s most beautiful and historic cities.
❓ FAQ
What are the top attractions in Verona?
The top attractions in Verona include the Arena di Verona, Juliet’s House, Piazza delle Erbe, Castelvecchio, and the Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore. These Verona highlights offer a mix of history, culture, and romance.
How can I explore Verona in one day?
To see Verona in one day, focus on the main attractions in the historic center. Start at the Arena, visit Juliet’s House, explore Piazza delle Erbe, and walk across Ponte Pietra. This itinerary covers the main Verona attractions efficiently.
What is the Verona Card and is it worth getting?
The Verona Card is a city pass that provides free or discounted entry to many attractions in Verona. It’s worth getting if you plan to visit multiple sites, as it can save you money and time.
How do I get to Verona?
You can get to Verona by train, bus, or car. The city is well-connected to other major Italian cities. Verona also has an international airport for those flying in directly.
What are some unique experiences in Verona?
Unique experiences in Verona include attending an opera at the Arena, taking a cooking class to learn about Verona food, or enjoying a wine tasting tour in the nearby Valpolicella region.
What’s the best view of Verona?
For the best view of Verona, head to Piazzale Castel San Pietro. This viewpoint offers a panoramic vista of the city’s red rooftops and historic landmarks.
What are some attractions in Verona by interest?
For history buffs, visit the Arena and Castelvecchio. Literature fans should see Juliet’s House. Art lovers will enjoy the many churches with their frescoes. Food enthusiasts can explore the local markets and restaurants for authentic Verona food.
