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Things to Do in Verona, Italy
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Plan language: EnglishMost popular attractions in Verona, Italy
Things to do in Verona, Italy include exploring the ancient Arena di Verona, a Roman amphitheater hosting operas just 150 meters from Piazza Bra. Visit Juliet's House to see the legendary balcony. Stroll through Piazza delle Erbe for lively markets and charming cafés, or explore the medieval Castelvecchio museum on the Adige River.
1. Arena di Verona
Legendary Roman arena where history meets spectacular opera nights. Feel the magic of timeless performances in a stunning open-air setting.
Quick facts: Imagine stepping into an outdoor arena that seats over 15,000 people, echoing with the voices of ancient Roman crowds. Its perfectly preserved elliptical shape hosts some of the grandest opera performances under the starry Italian sky.
Highlights: Experience the thrill of amazing acoustics that let even whispers on stage be heard from the top rows. Every summer, a famous opera festival fills the air with passion, transforming stone tiers into a vibrant sea of culture and music lovers.
2. Piazza delle Erbe
Step into a lively marketplace that’s centuries old. Experience the vibrant colors, scents, and voices of a local food and artisan hub.
Quick facts: A bustling hub since Roman times, this square has hosted markets for over 2,000 years. You'll spot a dozen historical buildings in varying architectural styles framing the vibrant marketplace, including a stunning Baroque fountain crowned by Madonna Verona.
Highlights: At the heart lies a fresh food market brimming with seasonal fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies, alive with vendors' lively banter and aromatic herbs. Spot an ancient Roman mosaic floor beneath your feet that whispers stories from centuries ago, blending daily life with a rich past.
3. Piazza Bra
Experience vibrant culture in a vast lively square. Wander among historic ruins, lively cafes, and stunning sunset views.
Quick facts: You can stroll through the largest square in Verona, stretching over 25,000 square meters. The area buzzes with energy from cafes, street artists, and open-air markets that fill the space year-round.
Highlights: At the heart stands the Arena, a Roman amphitheater hosting operas that echo with voices under a starry sky. The square blooms with orange trees and elegant palaces that change hues as the sun sets, creating a magical evening glow.
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4. Castelvecchio
An artistic fortress by the river that brings history and culture alive. Explore stunning medieval art and unique river views in one captivating spot.
Quick facts: A striking red brick fortress stretches along the Adige river, once serving as a defensive stronghold and now a vibrant art museum. Vast halls inside hold masterpieces including paintings by Pisanello and local medieval sculptures.
Highlights: Step onto the castle's voluminous stone bridge for panoramic river views that shimmer at sunset; an ancient well lies hidden beneath the courtyard, adding a mysterious charm. The collection inside features the famous 'Madonna and Child' sculpture, crafted from a single marble block by a 14th century artist.
5. Giardino Giusti
Discover enchanting pathways and breathtaking city views. Experience a living Renaissance garden rich with history and nature's vibrant colors.
Quick facts: The garden features a labyrinthine hedge maze with towering cypress trees that challenge visitors' sense of direction. Its panoramic terrace offers one of the best views over Verona's red-tiled rooftops and beyond to the distant hills.
Highlights: A 16th-century frescoed rotunda hidden among vibrant flowerbeds offers a stunning surprise that feels like stepping into a Renaissance painting. Vibrant peacocks roam freely, adding a splash of color and unexpected wildlife charm to the formal gardens.
Where to Stay in Verona, Italy
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Traditional Sweet Dishes
Pandoro
Pandoro is a star-shaped sweet bread from Verona, traditionally enjoyed at Christmas, known for its light, fluffy texture and dusting of vanilla-scented powdered sugar that resembles snowy peaks.
Torta Russa
Torta Russa is a beloved Veronese cake made with almonds, pine nuts, and candied fruits, symbolizing the fusion of local tradition and exotic influences brought by ancient trade routes.
Zaeti
Zaeti are traditional yellow cornmeal cookies studded with raisins, reflecting Verona's agricultural heritage and often enjoyed with a glass of sweet wine.
Traditional Savory Dishes
Risotto all'Amarone
Risotto all'Amarone showcases Verona's famous Amarone wine, imparting deep flavor and a rich, velvety texture to this iconic rice dish.
Pastissada de Caval
Pastissada de Caval is a historic horse meat stew from Verona, slow-cooked with red wine and aromatic herbs, treasured for its robust and hearty taste.
Gnocchi di Malga
Gnocchi di Malga are potato dumplings typical of the Verona mountains, often served with local cheese and speck, representing rustic alpine flavors.
Traditional Beverages
Amarone della Valpolicella
Amarone della Valpolicella is a prestigious red wine from the Verona region, made from partially dried grapes, known for its rich, full-bodied character and aging potential.
Recioto della Valpolicella
Recioto della Valpolicella is a sweet red wine made from dried grapes, prized for its luscious, fruity sweetness and historic roots in Verona's winemaking tradition.
Opera
Opera is a traditional hot drink from Verona, often served during festivities, made with coffee, chocolate, and a touch of spirits for warming flavor.
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Getting there
Train stations
Milan-Venice, Verona-Brenner
From Verona Airport, take the shuttle bus to the city center; the train station is central and well connected.
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Comments (10)
Honestly, Verona felt a bit touristy but that Piazza Bra at night has a magical vibe. Early morning is the best time to wander to avoid crowds.
Buy tickets for Romeo and Juliet's balcony and Arena shows online. They sell out fast and prices go up at the door.
Skip the guided tours at Juliet's House. Just peek inside quickly if you're curious and then explore nearby for cheaper souvenirs.
Try taking the bus from the train station to the old town during rush hours, it's quicker than walking and saves your energy.
Verona is charming but can get crowded in summer. Loved the local wines and cozy vibe in smaller cafes. Worth 3 days for sure.