Verona is a captivating historic city in Italy, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its ancient Roman structures, medieval architecture, and its connection to Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet." It draws in visitors looking for a blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and a romantic atmosphere.
Piazza delle Erbe is a central meeting point for both locals and tourists, featuring vibrant markets, cafes, and restaurants. The Veronetta district offers a lively, student-friendly environment with a relaxed, artistic vibe and various nightlife options. Within the Historic Center, many squares host cafes and eateries, providing ample opportunities for social interaction.
Top 8 Things to do in Verona
Exploring historical landmarks, enjoying panoramic city views, and indulging in local culinary traditions define the Verona experience.
1. Verona Arena
Stepping into the Arena di Verona, visitors immediately sense its grandeur. This remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater from the 1st century AD still hosts world-class opera performances and concerts. During a daytime visit, one can walk through the seating areas, imagining gladiator contests and grand spectacles from centuries past. Climbing to the top offers spectacular views over Piazza Bra and the ancient structure itself.
Cost: General admission is approximately €12.00. Reduced tickets are available for seniors over 65 (€9.00) and EU citizens aged 18-24 (€3.00), with free entry for children under 8. Fast-track entry tickets and guided tours are available, with guided tours starting around $29-$45 per person, which may include priority access.
Transport: The Arena is centrally located in Piazza Bra and is easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city center.
2. Juliet's House (Casa di Giulietta)
Visiting Juliet's House provides a unique connection to Shakespeare's tragic love story. Inside the medieval palace, one can explore the exhibits, see the famous balcony, and admire period furnishings. In the courtyard, touching the bronze statue of Juliet is a tradition believed to bring good luck in love. It is recommended to book tickets online in advance to avoid queues.
Cost: Entry to Juliet's House is approximately $6.00 (or €6.00). Reduced tickets are €1.00 for children aged 8-14 and €4.50 for groups over 15 or seniors over 60. A Verona Card offers free admission.
Transport: Juliet's House is located on Via Cappello and is within a 10-minute walk from Piazza Bra. Public buses (lines 11, 12, 13) from Verona Porta Nuova train station stop at Piazza Erbe, a short walk away.
3. Torre dei Lamberti
Climbing the Torre dei Lamberti, Verona's tallest medieval tower, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city's rooftops, the meandering Adige River, and the surrounding hills. Visitors can choose to ascend via stairs or an elevator, making it accessible while still providing a sense of accomplishment at the summit.
Cost: General admission is €8.00. Reduced tickets are €5.00 for seniors over 60, children 8-14, and students 14-30. Use of the elevator with a Verona Card is €1.00, and children aged 0-7 enter for free.
Transport: The tower is located in Piazza delle Erbe, which is easily walkable from anywhere in the historic center.
4. Piazza delle Erbe
This vibrant square, once the Roman Forum, serves as Verona's historic heart. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lively market, browse local artisan shops, and admire the beautiful frescoed buildings like the Mazzanti Houses and the Madonna Verona fountain. It is a perfect spot to enjoy a morning coffee or an evening aperitivo, observing local life unfold.
Cost: Exploring the piazza is free. Guided walking tours often include Piazza delle Erbe and typically range from €15 to €30 per person.
Transport: Piazza delle Erbe is in central Verona and is a short walk from the Arena di Verona and other major attractions. Buses also stop at nearby Piazza Bra.
5. Castelvecchio Museum and Bridge
Visiting the Castelvecchio Museum and its striking bridge, Ponte Scaligero, provides a deep dive into Verona's medieval past. The fortress, built in the 14th century by Cangrande II della Scala, now houses an impressive art museum with collections of medieval and Renaissance sculptures and paintings. Strolling across the bridge offers scenic views of the Adige River and the castle's robust architecture.
Cost: General admission to Castelvecchio Museum is approximately €9.00. Reduced tickets are available for seniors over 65 (€6.00) and EU citizens aged 18-24 (€2.00).
Transport: The museum is centrally located and can be reached on foot from most city center locations. Public buses, such as line 23 from Verona - Via Città di Nimes, take about 5-6 minutes and cost €1-€2. A taxi from the city center might cost €7-€10 for a 2-minute ride.
6. Giardino Giusti
Exploring Giardino Giusti offers a serene escape into one of Italy's finest Renaissance gardens. Designed with terraced levels, visitors follow prescribed paths amidst winding hedge mazes, ornate fountains, and ancient cypresses. A climb to the belvedere reveals enchanting views over Verona, providing a peaceful contrast to the bustling city center.
Cost: Full admission is €13.00. Reduced tickets are €9.00 for students and Verona Card holders. Children 0-6 years old enter for free. Family tickets are also available.
Transport: The garden is located on the left bank of the Adige River in the Veronetta district. It's approximately a 20-25 minute walk from Verona Porta Nuova railway station, or accessible by city buses (lines 70, 72, 73, 31, 32, 33, 91, 92) from the station or city center.
7. Verona Cathedral (Duomo di Verona)
A visit to Verona Cathedral, also known as Cattedrale Santa Maria Matricolare, reveals a magnificent blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture. Inside, one can admire the grand nave, elegant arches, stunning frescoes, and numerous chapels adorned with religious artworks. The complex also includes the St. Giovanni in Fonte baptistery with its impressive monolithic font.
Cost: A small admission fee may apply. Guided tours are available, providing insights into its history and art.
Transport: The Cathedral is in the Città Antica area, near the Ponte Pietra bridge. It is about a 16-minute walk from the Verona Arena. It is easily reachable on foot from the city center.
8. Valpolicella Wine Tasting Tour
Venturing just outside Verona into the Valpolicella region allows for an immersive wine-tasting experience. Many tours include visits to local, often family-run, wineries where one can learn about traditional cultivation methods and the winemaking process. Tasting sessions typically feature celebrated local wines such as Valpolicella, Ripasso, and Amarone, often paired with regional antipasti, offering a true taste of the Veneto.
Cost: Wine tasting tours vary widely in price depending on duration and inclusions, ranging from approximately $46 for a short visit to one winery to $158-$400+ for full-day tours including multiple wineries, lunch, and private transport. Some tours are also available for self-guided options at wine shops in town.
Transport: Many tours include private transportation from Verona. For those preferring to self-serve, local public transportation can reach some areas, but specific vineyard access might require taxis or pre-arranged transport.
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