Things To Do
in Verona
Verona is a compact city of rich Roman and medieval heritage set along the Adige River. Its historic core is a walking paradise where ancient ruins sit beside elegant piazzas and winding lanes. The skyline is dominated by the imposing Arena, adjacent to intimate courtyards, gardens, and a celebrated literary mood around Juliets House.
Nearby, the Valpolicella hills and Lake Garda offer wine routes and day trips, making Verona a refined crossroads of culture, romance, and cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Juliet's House, where you can marvel at the famous balcony and explore the charming courtyard. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets of the historic center, soaking in the beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Don't forget to stop by a local café for an authentic Italian espresso and a fresh pastry.
In the afternoon, visit the majestic Verona Arena, a well-preserved Roman amphitheater that hosts concerts and operas. Explore the nearby Piazza Bra, where you can enjoy lunch at one of the outdoor restaurants while people-watching. As you make your way to the Castelvecchio Museum, take time to appreciate the stunning medieval bridge that connects the two sides of the city.
As the sun sets, head to the beautiful Piazzale Castel San Pietro for breathtaking panoramic views of Verona. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a traditional trattoria, savoring local specialties like risotto all'Amarone and tortellini. Cap off your evening with a romantic walk along the Adige River, where the illuminated cityscape creates a magical atmosphere.
Begin your day at the Museo di Castelvecchio, where you can admire a remarkable collection of medieval and Renaissance art. After exploring the museum, take a leisurely stroll through the surrounding gardens, enjoying the scenic views of the castle and the river. Stop for a light lunch at a nearby café, sampling some local cheeses and cured meats.
In the afternoon, visit the Basilica di San Zeno, renowned for its stunning Romanesque architecture and beautiful frescoes. Spend time in the adjacent cloisters before wandering through the quaint streets of the San Zeno neighborhood, where you can find unique artisan shops. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some local gelato at a nearby gelateria.
For dinner, choose a restaurant that specializes in traditional Veronese cuisine, enjoying dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. After your meal, attend a local theater performance or concert to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant arts scene. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the quaint streets, illuminated by soft streetlights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $2-4 |
| 🍝Lunch for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚌Local transport day pass | $8-12 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Roman and medieval architecture in a compact, walkable center
- Outstanding wine region proximity and day trips to Lake Garda and Valpolicella
- Peak season crowds can be intense around the Arena and Piazza delle Erbe
- Some restaurants have higher prices in tourist zones
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Dove si trova il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Posso avere il conto, per favore?" - Can I have the bill, please?
Places to Visit in Verona
Visit one of these nice places.
The colossal Roman amphitheater at sunrise or dusk is a dramatic subject with soft light and a sense of ancient spectacle.
Romantic stone courtyard and the famous balcony; best at golden hour when shadows soften the stone.
Vibrant market square with medieval towers and towers peeking above colorful facades; great for street photography.
Red-brick fortress and river views offering strong lines and reflective water scenes.
Calm riverbanks ideal for long exposure shots of bridges and the city silhouette.
Renaissance garden with terraces, statues, and sweeping views of Verona’s rooftops.
Food in Verona
Verona Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy risotto finished with Amarone della Valpolicella wine, a hallmark of Verona’s wine country flavor profile.
Must-Try!
Delicate tortellini stuffed with meat, often served in broth or with sage butter in Valeggio sul Mincio and Verona area.
Salt cod prepared with tomatoes, olives, capers, and herbs, typically enjoyed with polenta.
Horse meat stew slow-simmered with wine, vegetables, and spices, a traditional dish on cooler days.
A tall, soft, vanilla-scented Christmas bread that remains popular year-round in Verona’s pastry shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively historic market where locals and visitors browse fruit, vegetables, cheese, salumi, and regional specialties.
Small stalls and bakeries around the medieval lanes offering fresh bread, focaccia, and seasonal snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite Buongiorno or Buonasera. Handshakes are common in formal settings; a friendly nod works in casual encounters.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; speak softly and avoid flash photography inside sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Verona
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy, service charge is often included. A small extra tip (5-10%) is appreciated for exceptional service, especially in nicer restaurants.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is handy for markets or smaller cafés.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and outdoor dining on most evenings; museum lines are shorter than summer peak.
Warm to hot days; stay hydrated, enjoy evening strolls along the Adige, and catch late dinners; some outdoor events may stretch late into the night.
Wine harvest season in Valpolicella; comfortable weather for day trips and scenic drives through hills and vineyards.
Cool to cold with occasional rain; city lights and markets create a festive atmosphere; indoor dining and museums are ideal for exploration.
Verona at Night
Hiking in Verona
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rolling limestone hills with woodlands and panoramic views, perfect for day hikes and cooler summer treks.
Wine country terrain with scenic trails through vineyards and small villages; ideal for leisurely hikes between cantine.
Gentle-to-moderate trails offering lakeside scenery and options for longer scenic routes a short drive from Verona.
Airports
How to reach Verona by plane.
Closest international airport with frequent flights to Europe; well connected to Verona by bus and taxi.
Major international gateway with rail connections to Verona on high-speed lines; convenient for long-haul connections.
Another major hub within a few hours by train or car; useful for combined trips to the Veneto region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Historically diverse mix of locals who value art, cuisine, and family traditions; many families live within easy reach of the city center.
Several universities contribute to a youthful energy, particularly around the educational districts and university neighborhoods.
Year-round visitors attracted by the Arena, Juliet’s House, and nearby wine routes; the peak is in spring and early autumn.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and national sport passion; matches and club culture attract many fans in season.
Popular for scenic rides through nearby Valpolicella and along river paths; bike rental is common in center.
While Lake Garda is a short drive away, water sports enthusiasts frequently visit for sailing and windsurfing.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Verona.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Veronese restaurants offer vegetarian pasta, risottos, and vegetable-forward dishes; ask for polenta with mushrooms or grilled vegetables as a hearty alternative.
Focus on fresh vegetables, legumes, risottos without dairy, and olive oil-based preparations; communicate dietary needs clearly to staff.
Many places can accommodate with polenta, risotto, grilled proteins, and gluten-free pasta; always verify cross-contamination in kitchens.