Top Things to Do in Verona, Italy

Stay safe while wandering charming neighborhoods, budget wisely with our budgeting tips, and discover the best times, tours, and accommodations through this comprehensive guide.

Jump directly to things to see and do

Why Visit Verona

Verona is an enchanting city nestled in Northern Italy’s Veneto region, famous worldwide as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.

Beyond its literary fame, the city offers a well-preserved Roman arena, stunning medieval castles, and lively piazzas. Visitors appreciate Verona’s compact charm — allowing you to explore all main sights on foot while enjoying local wines and cuisine. I found it to be an authentic Italian experience blending history, romance, and relaxed urban life seamlessly.

Must-See Sights and Experiences in Verona

Juliet’s House and Balcony (Casa di Giulietta)

This iconic 14th-century home sets the scene for Shakespeare’s tragic romance. I recommend visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds. The courtyard with Juliet’s bronze statue is free to enter, where tradition invites you to touch Juliet’s right breast for luck in love. Inside the house (book tickets in advance), you’ll find the famous balcony, where you can take pictures and even post a letter to Juliet herself via a special mailbox.

The Verona Arena (Arena di Verona)

This grand Roman amphitheater dates back to the 1st century AD and is remarkably well-preserved. I suggest booking your entry online ahead of time, especially in the summer when the arena hosts open-air opera performances that are magical under the stars. It’s a vivid connection to ancient times and a must-visit for culture lovers.

Castelvecchio and its Bridge

History buffs will appreciate the 14th-century Castelvecchio fortress and its medieval bridge. This castle showcases several art collections spanning medieval to modern times. The adjacent walkway along the castle walls offers panoramic views of the city and the Adige River—a perfect spot for photos and quiet reflection.

Beautiful Piazzas: Piazza Bra & Piazza delle Erbe

These bustling public squares are the heartbeat of Verona’s social life. Piazza Bra, in front of the Arena, offers people-watching, historic cafés, and vibrant street performances. Piazza delle Erbe, the oldest Roman forum, features colorful market stalls, ornate fountains, and the towering Lamberti Tower that invites you to climb for stunning city views.

Other Attractions Not to Miss

• Castel San Pietro for breathtaking panoramic views
• Roman Theatre on the banks of the Adige River
• Historic churches like San Zeno Maggiore, with art and architecture to admire
• Shopping along Via Mazzini for Italian fashion and souvenirs

How to Get to Verona

Verona is accessible by train, plane, and car. The Verona Porta Nuova train station connects to major Italian cities including Milan, Venice, and Rome, perfect for rail travelers. Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN) serves international flights and is about 15 minutes by taxi from the city center. Driving is convenient with well-maintained highways but beware of the city’s Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL) that restricts access to vehicles in historic areas.

Getting Around Verona

I found Verona incredibly pedestrian-friendly, especially the historic center where most landmarks sit close together. Walking is the best way to soak in the city’s atmosphere. For farther destinations, local buses run regularly with tickets available at newsstands or via the ATV bus service. Cycling is another enjoyable way to explore, with bike rentals widely available.

Best Time to Visit Verona

The ideal times are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when temperatures are mild and tourist crowds thinner. Summer is lively and filled with festivals like the opera season but expect higher prices and busy streets. Winter is peaceful with fewer tourists, making it a budget-friendly option though some attractions may have reduced hours.

Where to Stay in Verona – Neighborhoods and Options

Typical Costs and Suggested Budgets

Verona offers options that suit a range of budgets:

• Budget travelers: €45–€70 per night for hostel dorms or simple guesthouses; dining at local trattorias for €10–€20 per meal.
• Mid-range travelers: €120–€180 per night for 3-star hotels; enjoying a mid-range meal costs €25–€40.
• Luxury travelers: €220+ per night for premium hotels with rooftop terraces or original frescoed rooms; gourmet dining above €50.

Money-Saving Tips for Visiting Verona

• Invest in the Verona City Card, which grants free or discounted entry to many top sites and free public transport.
• Book tickets for the Arena and Juliet’s House online to skip queues and get cheaper prices.
• Eat like a local—choose osterias and avoid tourist-heavy restaurants in Piazza Bra.
• Travel in shoulder seasons for better accommodation deals and less crowding.

Recommended Tours and Unique Experiences

Taking a guided walking or bike tour gives insight into Verona’s rich heritage while uncovering hidden gems. Here are some of my favorites, with user ratings mostly 4+ stars:

How to Stay Safe in Verona

Verona ranks as a very safe city, with very low violent crime rates. Common sense precautions recommended include securing valuables, especially in crowded tourist spots like Piazza Bra and Juliet’s House. Neighborhoods like Veronetta and Borgo Trento are safe for tourists. It’s best to avoid isolated areas late at night. Emergency services are efficient, with the main emergency number being 112.

Personal Insights and Pro Tips

From my trips to Verona, what stood out is the city’s ability to stay intimate and manageable, even during busy seasons. Booking your tickets online saves significant time and stress. Walk as much as possible to feel the city under your feet and avoid taxis in the historic center due to traffic restrictions. Don’t miss the sunset from Castel San Pietro — a quiet moment with breathtaking views. Also, sample local Amarone wine in one of the enotecas for an authentic taste of the region.

Exploring Around Verona

For those with extra days, nearby gems include Lake Garda, just a short drive away for nature lovers, and the wine regions of Valpolicella known for Amarone production. Venice and Milan are accessible by train for day trips or overnight stays.

Ideal Length of Stay in Verona

Three to four days in Verona allows you to cover all major historic sites, enjoy the culinary scene, and take a day trip or two outside the city. For a slower, in-depth cultural experience, a week is ideal to soak in the lifestyle and explore neighboring areas.

Helpful Map of Verona

Frequently Asked Questions About Verona

Final Tip