Located in the west of the Veneto region in northern Italy, beautiful Verona was found in the 1st century BC by the Romans. It’s best known for its connection to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet which has made it one of the world’s most renowned romantic cities, but there’s a lot more to love here. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s like an open-air museum with numerous centuries-old buildings, including magnificent Renaissance-era structures. It also hosts the most extensive collection of Roman remains in the region, including a Roman amphitheater. The Verona Arena was built in 30 AD and is still in use today. One of the most well-preserved ancient structures in the world, visitors can enjoy opera performances and concerts in an incredible historic setting. Among the other highlights are lively markets, a mouthwatering food and drink scene, lovely churches, imposing castles, leafy parks, and lush gardens, along with dazzling panoramic views.
As such a beautiful city with so much on offer, hotels in Verona tend to be expensive, especially in the historic center as it’s one of the most desirable places to stay. The good news is that there are many good neighborhoods, some that are within just a short walk of the center while offering more affordable accommodation and often a quieter setting too. Depending on your needs and preferences, there are options for those seeking hopping nightlife, neighborhoods that are ideal for families with parks for the kids to play, and places that are more affordable while offering an authentic vibe. You’ll want to choose your neighborhood first and then your accommodation with options that range from hostels and charming B&Bs to short-term apartment rentals, small boutique properties set in historic palazzos, and luxurious hotels with pools. Be sure to book well ahead to secure the most desirable, especially for summer stays.
Check out our guide on where to stay in Verona.
There are practically an overwhelming number of things to do in Verona, but for the first-time visitor, there are some absolute musts.
Perhaps even more impressive than the Colosseum in Rome, the Verona Arena was built in 30 AD and it’s incredibly well-preserved, so much so that today it’s a venue for concerts and opera performances. The original seating and exterior arches are still visible and it’s easy to imagine the 30,000 spectators who once watched shows and games like the Roman Ludi here so many centuries ago. Catch a show if you can or take a tour to step inside.
Wander through the historic center to discover many of Verona’s top sights. There are wide piazzas with multiple monuments and churches, with Piazza delle Erbe at its heart serving as the hub of activity. It includes statues, fountains, restaurants, cafes, and important buildings, including the 12th-century Torre Lamberti, Verona’s tallest tower, and Palazzo Maffeia. It’s fun just to get lost among the streets and alleyways, taking a break at an outdoor café for a drink while people-watching
While it’s very touristy, Casa di Giulietta, or Juliet’s House, is famous for its association with Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. It’s one of Verona’s most iconic symbols and the crowds are always thick but many come to suspend disbelief and imagine Juliet standing on the fabled balcony calling for her Romeo while reflecting on the beauty of young love. The house includes a museum that’s worth a look for learning more about the building and the play.
Located along the River Adige, Castle Vecchio was built in the mid-14th century to defend the city, with an imposing gatehouse, guard towers, and a series of crenulated battlements. It includes a museum focused on the castle’s history, with a variety of artifacts and displays, while the Castle Vecchio Bridge, the world’s longest at the time of its construction, is attached to the main complex. Stairs provide access to the towers for a jaw-dropping view of the river and surrounds from its elevated vantage point.
Behind the 16th-century Mannerist-style Palazzo Guisti are Guisti Gardens. Set along the eastern banks of the River Adige, the gardens date back to the 16th century and were designed to take advantage of the terraces that provide glimpses of Verona a little at a time. It’s a great place to escape the chaos and stroll the meandering paths that wind through eight formal parterres while the less formal garden features a grotto and spectacular views over the city that are framed by old cypress trees.
Italy’s largest lake makes an ideal day trip from Verona as well as providing a refreshingly cooler respite from the heat during the summer. It’s just over a 70-minute drive, or you can easily take the train from Verona Porta Nuova station. Tours are also available that will bring you to explore various charming villages, spend time on a beautiful beach, enjoy lunch, and visit some of the local villas and castles. Boat tours are available for a perspective of the sights from the water.
Verona is a popular city to visit all year round, but there are better times to visit than others. For those who want to enjoy sightseeing without the biggest crowds of the year or the searing heat while enjoying mild weather, April and October can be ideal with pleasant temperatures in the 60s or 70s. There may be a bit of rain but nothing too severe. For the most budget-friendly visit with the fewest number of other visitors around, mid-November through early December or the second half of January through early February are your best bets. Those are the periods for scoring cheaper hotel rooms and airfare, but you need to prepare for inclement weather, by bringing a warm waterproof coat, clothing that can be layered, waterproof boots, and other winter accessories like a hat and gloves. Summer is the hottest and busiest time, but it’s also the best for attending Verona’s festivals.
Check out our guide on the best time to visit Verona.
Verona is a beautiful city in northern Italy, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and romantic ambiance. Some of the must-see attractions in Verona include:
1. The Arena di Verona: This ancient Roman amphitheater is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and is still used for concerts and operas today.
2. Juliet’s House: This 14th-century house is said to have been the home of Shakespeare’s Juliet and is now a popular tourist destination.
3. Piazza delle Erbe: This vibrant square is the heart of Verona’s historic center and is home to a bustling market and many beautiful historic buildings.
These are just a few of the many wonderful attractions that Verona has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply soaking up the city’s romantic atmosphere, Verona is sure to enchant and delight.
The amount of time you need to see all the major sights in Verona depends on your personal travel style and interests. Generally, you could see the top sights in Verona within 2-3 days, but if you want to take your time and explore the city more leisurely, you may want to stay for 4-5 days or more.
If you’re interested in history and architecture, you’ll want to spend time exploring Verona’s many churches, museums, and historic landmarks, which could take a few days. On the other hand, if you’re more interested in the city’s food, wine, and cultural experiences, you might want to allow more time for leisurely meals and visits to local markets, wineries, and cultural events.
Overall, Verona is a compact city that’s easy to navigate on foot or by bike, so it’s possible to see a lot in a short amount of time. However, to fully appreciate the city’s charm and beauty, it’s worth taking the time to slow down and soak up the ambiance.
Verona is a charming and historic city that offers a variety of neighborhoods to stay in, each with its own unique character and attractions. Here are some of the best neighborhoods to stay in during a Verona vacation:
1. Centro Storico: Verona’s historic center is home to many of the city’s top attractions, including the Arena di Verona, Piazza delle Erbe, and Juliet’s House. This is a great area to stay in if you want to be close to the main tourist sites and soak up the city’s medieval charm.
2. San Zeno: This quiet and picturesque neighborhood is located just outside the historic center and is home to the stunning Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore. This is a great area to stay in if you want to be close to the sights but away from the crowds.
3. Veronetta: This bohemian neighborhood is located on the east bank of the Adige River and is home to the University of Verona. This is a great area to stay in if you want to be close to local cafes and nightlife and experience a more youthful and artistic side of Verona.
These are just a few of the many wonderful neighborhoods to stay in during a Verona vacation. Ultimately, the best neighborhood for you will depend on your personal preferences and travel style.
Yes, Verona is located in a beautiful part of Italy, and there are many wonderful day trips and excursions that you can take to explore the surrounding area. Here are a few options to consider:
1. Lake Garda: This stunning lake is located just a short drive from Verona and offers a variety of activities, including swimming, boating, and hiking. The charming towns of Sirmione and Bardolino are also worth visiting.
2. Valpolicella wine region: Verona is located in the heart of the Valpolicella wine region, which is known for its world-class red wines. Many wineries in the region offer tastings and tours, and the town of Soave is also worth a visit.
3. Mantua: This beautiful Renaissance city is located about an hour from Verona and is known for its stunning architecture, including the Palazzo Ducale and the Basilica di Sant’Andrea.
4. Vicenza: This historic city is located about an hour from Verona and is known for its beautiful Palladian architecture, including the Teatro Olimpico and the Basilica Palladiana.
5. Venice: While it’s a bit further away (about 1.5 hours by train), Venice is easily accessible from Verona and is a must-see destination for many visitors to Italy.
These are just a few of the many wonderful day trips and excursions that you can take from Verona. Whether you’re interested in wine, history, or natural beauty, there’s something for everyone in this part of Italy.
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