Best Things To Do In Verona – Your Essential Travel Guide

Nestled in northern Italy’s Veneto region, Verona blends romance and history in every corner. Best known as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, the city offers much more than literary charm.

Its UNESCO-listed centre is a living museum, where Roman ruins, medieval castles, and Renaissance palaces coexist. Highlights include the Arena di Verona, a remarkably preserved Roman amphitheatre still hosting open-air operas, and lively squares like Piazza delle Erbe. 

If you’re planning a broader itinerary, Verona pairs perfectly with other unforgettable things to do in Italy.

Must-see attractions in Verona

Verona enchants with a mix of Roman ruins, medieval fortresses, and Renaissance charm. Whether you’re drawn by history, romance, or art, these highlights are essential.

Verona Arena

This 1st-century Roman amphitheatre dominates Piazza del Bra and still hosts world-famous opera performances. With room for 15,000 spectators, its acoustics and atmosphere make shows unforgettable.

Even without a performance, touring the Arena offers a glimpse into ancient Roman entertainment and architecture. It’s one of the world’s best-preserved amphitheatres and a proud symbol of the city’s Roman heritage.

Casa di Giulietta (Juliet’s House)

Famous for its link to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, this 13th-century house draws romantics from around the world. Visitors gather in the courtyard to see the bronze statue of Juliet and the iconic balcony added in the 20th century.

Inside, the small museum features Renaissance furnishings and film memorabilia that celebrate the enduring love story.

Piazza delle Erbe & Piazza dei Signori

Once a Roman forum, Piazza delle Erbe buzzes with daily markets, frescoed facades, and the Torre dei Lamberti. A short walk away, Piazza dei Signori offers a quieter elegance with Gothic and Renaissance palaces and a statue of Dante Alighieri.

Together, these squares reveal Verona’s civic and cultural soul.

Castelvecchio & Bridge

With 14th-century fortress now hosts the Castelvecchio Museum, showcasing art from medieval to modern times. Next to it, the Castelvecchio Bridge spans the Adige River with stunning views. Built as a military escape route, it’s now a scenic spot for photos and strolls. 

Lamerti Tower

Climb this 84-meter medieval tower for sweeping views of Verona. You can take an elevator or the 368-step staircase. From the top, the city’s red rooftops, river bends, and Alpine backdrop stretch out in every direction.

These attractions capture Verona’s unique blend of romance, history, and culture. To make the most of your trip, consider our curated Italy vacation packages that include iconic destinations.

Hidden gems & local favourites

While the iconic landmarks draw most visitors to Verona, the city’s true character often reveals itself in its quieter corners. For travellers seeking authentic experiences beyond the tourist hotspots, these lesser-known treasures unveil the city’s layered history and vibrant local culture. 

Giardino Giusti

A masterpiece of Renaissance design, Giardino Giusti offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city centre. Built in the 16th century for the aristocratic Giusti family, this enchanting garden features meticulously manicured hedges, mythological statues, and fragrant citrus groves arranged in perfect geometric symmetry.

The garden’s shaded pathways lead to a hilltop tower with sweeping views of Verona’s terracotta rooftops and the winding Adige River. This panorama rivals more famous viewpoints but with fewer crowds. 

Don’t miss the labyrinthine hedge maze, one of Europe’s oldest surviving examples, where you can lose yourself among centuries-old cypress trees. This hidden oasis provides a refreshing counterpoint to the city’s stone monuments and busy piazzas. 

San Zeno Maggiore

This magnificent Romanesque basilica, dedicated to Verona’s patron saint, is a masterpiece of medieval architecture, often overlooked for more famous sites. The church’s façade features remarkable bronze doors dating to the 11th century, depicting biblical scenes with extraordinary emotional depth. Above the entrance, the “Wheel of Fortune” rose window casts colourful light patterns across the interior while symbolising life’s unpredictability.

The serene nave houses Mantegna’s altarpiece “Madonna and Child with Saints”. The atmospheric crypt beneath the altar contains the relics of Saint Zeno, a 4th-century bishop revered for converting Verona to Christianity. The basilica’s peaceful cloister offers a moment of quiet reflection away from the city’s more crowded attractions. 

Arche Scaligere

Tucked behind the unassuming Santa Maria Antica church near Piazza dei Signori, the Scaliger Tombs (Arche Scaligere) are Gothic marvels that house Verona’s medieval rulers. The ornate wrought-iron grilles and soaring spires of these 14th-century monuments showcase the Scaliger dynasty’s power and artistic patronage.

These elaborate funerary monuments represent some of Italy’s finest Gothic sculpture, yet many visitors walk past without noticing them. Visit at dusk to see the tombs dramatically illuminated against Verona’s twilight sky, a sight few tourists witness but one that perfectly captures the city’s romantic atmosphere.

Street art and small galleries

Are you interested in modern artistic expressions? Visit the Galleria dello Scudo, which hosts rotating exhibitions of modern Italian masters, or Forte Arte, an innovative cultural hub housed in a repurposed military fort. Another hidden cultural gem is the SIM (Shakespeare Interactive Museum, which reimagines the playwright’s works through immersive digital installations. It’s a modern take on Verona’s literary heritage. 

Locals also recommend visiting Pozzo dell’Amore (the “Well of Love”) near Piazza dei Signori. The legend claims that couples who toss a coin in will ensure eternal devotion. For an authentic taste of local life, wander down Sottoriva, an arcaded street along the Adige lined with traditional osterie where Veronese gather for aperitivo away from tourist crowds.

These hidden corners and local favourites capture Verona’s soul far from the crowds. They offer travellers a more intimate connection with this enchanting city and its rich cultural tapestry.

Food & wine in Verona

Verona’s culinary scene celebrates centuries of tradition that blends rustic flavours and world-class wines. From hearty pasta dishes to exceptional local vintages, here’s how to savour the city’s gastronomic treasures like a true Veronese.

Veronese cuisine

Verona’s cuisine reflects its rich history and agricultural roots. Try risotto all’Amarone, Vialone Nano rice cooked with bold Amarone wine and Monte Veronese cheese, for a perfect taste of rustic elegance. For something heartier, sample pastissada de caval, a spiced horse meat stew served with creamy polenta. 

If that’s not your style, bigoli with duck ragù or seasoned pork offers a satisfying local favorite. Bollito con pearà, boiled meats with peppery sauce, is a Lombard-era classic. For a lighter dish, try tortellini di Valeggio, a delicate pasta filled with seasoned meats and herbs.

Aperitivo culture

Aperitivo is central to Verona’s evenings. Locals gather in Piazza delle Erbe to enjoy Aperol Spritz and cicchetti – snacks like sopressa and Monta Veronese cheese. For something quieter, stroll Via Sottoriva and sip a spritz in arcaded osterie by the river. Or visit Enoteca Segreta near Juliet’s House, where staff pair regional wines with olives and cured meats in a cozy, refined setting. 

Wine regions nearby

Verona borders iconic wine regions. Just 15 minutes away, Valpolicella produces Amarone, a rich red from dried grapes, and the lighter Ripasso. East of the city, Soave is known for fresh white wines made from Garganega grapes. 

Vineyards like Tommasi and Pieropan welcome visitors for tastings paired with cheese and salumi. Even a short tour gives you a deep taste of Verona’s wine heritage. 

Traditional osterias & wine bars

To experience Verona’s food scene like a local, seek out these beloved establishments:

• Osteria al Duca: This family-run gem near the Arena specializes in traditional dishes like patissada and home-made bigola in an unpretentious setting.

• Antica Bottega del Vino: A 19th-century institution housing over 4,500 wines in its historic cellar, serving truffle-laced risottos and perfect wine pairings.

• Enoteca della Valpolicella: This cozy wine bar in Quinzano offers rare Amarone vintage by the glass alongside simple but perfectly executed regional specialities.

• Osteria del Bugiardo: A bustling local favorite known for affordable spritzes and generous boards of salumi mantecati (whipped cured meats).

Sample pandoro, Verona’s famous butter-rich Christmas cake, dusted with vanilla sugar for a sweet finale as recommended in our food and wine guide. Another top recommendation is sfogliatine di Villafranca, a delicate, flaky pastry filled with jam or cream. Pair either with a glass of Recioto, a lusciously sweet red wine made from the same dried grapes as Amarone. 

Outdoor experiences & day trips

While Verona’s historic center enchants with ancient monuments and romance, the surrounding area offers rewarding outdoor escapes. From scenic river paths to nearby wonders, here are some of the best places to visit in Verona for every adventurer.

Walk along the Adige River

Verona, Italy. Scenery with Adige River and Ponte di Pietra.

The Lungadige paths along the Adige River offer a peaceful contrast to Verona’s lively piazzas. Start at Ponte Pietra and walk toward Castel San Pietro for sweeping city views. 

For a longer stroll, head from Castelvecchio to Ponte Catena, passing towers and tree-lined promenades where locals jog and relax. Sunset walls reveal the beauty of Verona’s lit bridges reflecting on the water. It’s an ideal scene for photographs and quiet reflection.

Teatro Romano & Archaeological Museum

Beneath Saint Peter’s Hill lies the 1st-century BC Teatro Romano, a remarkably preserved ancient theater. Climb its steps for unique views of the city. Next door, the Archaeological Museum displays Roman and Etruscan artifacts. Its hillside setting offers glowing rooftop views at sunset…both educational and serene.

Day trip to Lake Garda

Landscape with Malcesine town, Garda Lake, Italy

Just 30 minutes away, Lake Garda boasts clear waters and scenic towns. Explore Sirmione’s Roman ruins or cycle near Bardolino. Ride the Monte Baldo cable car for alpine views or visit Gardaland with the family. Lakeside meals round out the perfect day.

Valpolicella Wine Trails

North of Verona, Valpolicella’s hills invite wine lovers to taste Amarone and Ripasso wines. Visit historic estates, discover hidden churches, or bike the Ciclabile dell’Adige. Pair morning history with afternoon wine for a memorable day. 

Practical tips for visiting Verona

To enjoy Verona like a savvy traveler, not a tourist, keep these essential tips in mind.

Best time to visit

Spring and fall bring mild weather (59–77°F/15–25°C), fewer crowds, and seasonal events like harvest festivals and wine tastings. Summer is peak season with grand operas at the Arena di Verona, but also intense heat and crowds. Winter is quieter, with festive markets and shorter hours at some sites. For summer operas, book tickets early. 

Getting around

Verona’s compact is best explored on foot. The main sights are within 15 minutes of each other. For longer trips, ATV buses are reliable and cheap (€1.70 for 90 minutes). Bike rentals from BikeVerona are great for riverside paths. Lake Garda and Valpolicella are reachable in 30 and 15 minutes by public transport or car. 

Cultural etiquette

• Dress modestly at churches. 
• Follow local dining times – Lunch at 12:30–2:30 PM, dinner after 7:30 PM.
• Join the aperitivo tradition from 6–8 PM.
• Tipping isn’t required, but rounding up or leaving 5–10% is appreciated.

Language and money

Learn a few Italian phrases to connect with locals. Credit card use is most common and used at most establishments, but carry Euros in cash for markets.

Discover Verona with Exoticca

From ancient Roman arenas to Juliet’s balcony, Verona blends history, romance, and culture in a walkable, storybook setting. Experience bustling piazzas, Renaissance gardens, and panoramic towers, then unwind with local wine in a cozy osteria.

With Exoticca, your journey goes beyond Verona. From Venice’s canals to Tuscany’s vineyards and Rome’s timeless ruins, Exoticca crafts seamless Italy tours combining iconic sights and hidden gems. Enjoy expert guides, prime accommodations, and a perfect mix of structure and free time.

Let Verona be the start of your unforgettable Italian adventure…where every street corner reveals another chapter in Italy’s rich and vibrant history.