one day trip to verona

Turn your dream vacation into reality

One Day in Verona (Walking Itinerary + Map)

• December 26, 2023

Located in the Veneto region of Italy, Verona is a small city right between Venice and the famous Lake Garda. Although it’s mostly known for its connection to Shakespeare’s tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, the city has so much more to offer!

Steeped in historic charm with ancient Roman ruins, a medieval fortress, breathtaking piazzas and river views, Verona has everything you can desire. Not to mention the delicious regional food and famous wines, Amarone and Recioto della Valpolicella!

Just an hour away by train, Verona is a very popular day trip from Venice. Besides this, if you plan a day trip to Lake Garda, this is the best location to base yourself.

Planning to spend a few days in Venice as well? Then take a look at my 3-day itinerary for Venice . It covers all the must-see sights, including how to skip all the lines and how to see Murano and Burano in just one day.

One day in Verona itinerary

It’s important to know what are the key sights, so you can make the most of your one day in Verona. You’ll find all the essential information in my guide, including what attractions to see, why to buy the Verona card and where to eat.

This guide is perfect for all staying 1-2 nights in Verona as well as for those planning to explore the city on a day trip from Venice.

At the end of this suggested itinerary for one day in Verona, you’ll find a map (with all attractions and restaurants’ websites).

Already have a hotel booked? Then take a look at my guide to the best area to stay in Verona and make sure your hotel has a convenient location for exploring the city.

1 Day in Verona (best day trip itinerary)

• Start the day with breakfast at Pasticceria Camesco

See the famous Arena di Verona

Tour the medieval castelvecchio, stroll along the ponte scaligero, climb the lamberti tower, see the iconic balcony of romeo and juliet, visit the impressive basilica of santa anastasia, cross ponte pietra.

• Enjoy the best views of Verona

Breakfast at Pasticceria Camesco

08:30 AM – 09:30 AM If you look for the best coffee and croissants in Verona, there is one place to go – Pasticceria Camesco .

Although it’s located a 10min walk from the historic centre, this pasticceria is totally worth the detour. The pistachio croissants were the best I’ve had in my life!

If you’re about to explore Verona on a day trip, you won’t find a better convenient place for breakfast. The pasticceria is right between the Verona Porta Nuova train station and the historic centre!

Yet, if you prefer something closer to the historic sights, Caffe Borsari is the place to go.

09:30 AM – 10:00 AM Located on Piazza Bra, Arena di Verona is one of the city’s key sights. Originally made of white and pink limestone, the famous amphitheatre dates back to the 1st century BC. In fact, it’s one of the best-preserved ancient Roman structures in the world.

You can visit the Arena and get a sense of how huge the amphitheatre is. To find out more about its centuries-old history, book this excellent guided tour with a knowledgeable guide .

In ancient times, Roman spectacles and gladiator games were attended here by up to 30,000 visitors. Nowadays, the amphitheatre is used for concerts, ballets and opera performances.

10:10 AM – 11:45 AM Castelvecchio (means Old Castle in Italian) stands on the south bank of the Adige River. It’s built in the 14th century by the Scaliger dynasty, which ruled the city in the Middle Ages.

Once used as an important military fortress, today the castle houses a museum. The exhibitions feature weapons from the Middle Ages, as well as art pieces from the Renaissance period.

Don’t miss the views from the castle’s ramparts towards the Ponte Scaligero, one of the city’s most beautiful bridges.

11:45 AM – 12:00 PM After a visit to the castle, walk across the adjacent Ponte Scaligero (aka Castelvecchio Bridge). It’s one of the most impressive bridges in Verona. Built in the 14th century, its main purpose was to facilitate the escape from the fortified castle.

Lunch at La Bottega della Gina

12:00 PM – 02:00 PM For the best pasta in Verona, go to La Bottega della Gina . It’s a small authentic pasta shop with a few seats available. All the pasta is freshly prepared and cooked on premise.

We ordered the tagliatelle with ragout and a sample of all the tortellini flavours. Both extremely delicious!

La Bottega della Gina is the perfect spot for a quick casual lunch. Yet, if you prefer to sit and rest before continuing with this Verona itinerary, go to La Vecia Mescola . It’s an excellent restaurant with a beautiful atmosphere and lovely food.

02:00 PM – 02:40 PM Lamberti Tower (Torre dei Lamberti) is the largest tower in Verona. Originally built in 1172 by the Lamberti family, the tower stood at 37 metres in height. However, in the following centuries, after the construction was integrated into the Palazzo del Consiglio, its height was increased to 84 metres.

To climb to the top of the tower you have to take the staircase (368 steps) or the lift. If you don’t have a Verona Card, buy a skip-the-line ticket for the tower , as lines can be long at certain times.

Note that the Verona Card holders have to pay €1 extra to use the lift. From the top, you can enjoy superb panoramic views over the city’s red rooftops and River Adige’s curves.

02:40 PM – 03:20 PM Verona is well known for its connections to Romeo and Juliet. Thus, you can’t visit the city, without seeing the iconic Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta).

You’ll find Juliet’s House tucked away in a little alley with walls covered in love notes. This 13th-century house features a little courtyard with a statue of Juliet. Yet, the most popular spot in the house is the famous balcony where Romeo promised his eternal love to Juliet.

It’s free to enter the courtyard, where you can touch Juliet’s bronze chest for luck and love. However, to visit the house and stand in the iconic balcony you have to pay €6. The entrance is free with Verona Card.

You can even send a letter (or email) to Juliet! And you’ll get an answer! The letters are actually handled by a group of volunteers from the Club di Giulietta in Verona.

Before visiting, be aware that the house has no actual connection to the fictional characters of Romeo and Juliet. In fact, the balcony was only added in the 20th century. Still, it’s worth it to take a quick look and see how noble families lived in Verona centuries ago.

L’Arte del Gelato

And while in the area, stop for some gelato at L’Arte del Gelato . It’s one of the best in Verona!

03:40 PM – 04:10 PM Even if you have only one day in Verona, the Basilica of Santa Anastasia is not to be missed. It was built in the period 1280-1400 by the friars of the Dominican order.

Basilica of Santa Anastasia is the largest church in the city (and the most beautiful one). Don’t let its plain exterior turn you away. The interior is truly remarkable, featuring frescoed ceilings and beautiful chapels.

There is an entrance fee of €3 to visit the church (you get a free audio guide as well).

04:20 PM – 04:30 PM To get to the last sight of this Verona itinerary, you’ll have to cross the Adige River. And the best spot to do is one of the city’s iconic bridges, Ponte Pietra. Dating back to the 1st century BC, this is the oldest bridge in Verona.

The best views of Verona

04:40 PM – 05:30 PM Piazzale Castel San Pietro offers the best panoramic views of the city and Adige River. So, even if you have only 1 day in Verona, make the effort to visit the place. It will be the highlight of your trip!

The easiest way to get to the viewing point is by taking the Funicolare di Castel San Pietro. In less than a 2min ride, you’ll reach the top of the hill. Of course, if you prefer walking, there are some steep steps you can take to the top.

Whatever you choose, the panoramic views will be worth it! Besides the spectacular views, you’ll find a 14th-century palace (sadly it’s not open to visitors).

Dinner at Il Punto Rosa

Finish this Verona itinerary with dinner at Il Punto Rosa . It’s a lovely little restaurant where you can try some local food.

Ready for a second gelato? Well, then head to Gelateria La Romana Verona . It’s a 10min walk from the historic centre, but it’s worth it the little detour. You’ll have one of the best gelato in Italy!

More ideas for your one day in Verona

Take a food tour.

There is no better way to discover Verona than taking a food tour with wine tasting . You’ll taste the local tortellini fresh pasta, try an Italian espresso and the famous Amarone wine.

Marvel at the Scaliger Tombs

Scaliger Tombs (Arche Scaligere) is a group of Gothic funeral monuments erected by the Scaliger family. For €1 you can enter inside the iron gates and see the tombs at close hand. They are just a step away from the Piazza dei Signori, so don’t miss to take a look.

Visit the Renaissance garden of Giusti Palace

The gardens of Giusti Palace (Palazzo Giusti) is considered one of the best Renaissance gardens in Europe. The earliest gardens were set up in the late 1400s. In the 16th century, they were improved to serve as a backdrop of the Giusti Palace. The garden is laid out on several levels, featuring 600-year-old cypress trees and a maze.

Visit Verona’s famous churches

Besides the Basilica of Santa Anastasia, the city is home to several more gorgeous churches. Thus, if you have enough time I urge you to discover the religious sights below.

• Verona Cathedral – 12th-century Romanesque cathedral with a striped façade and beautiful frescoes and paintings by Titian
• Basilica of San Zeno – features an impressive Romanesque design with detailed bronze doors, decorated with vivid biblical scenes
• Church of San Fermo Maggiore – a fusion of Romanesque and Gothic styles with a magnificent carved wood ceiling

All three churches are free with Verona Card. Another option is to buy this combined ticket . It gives you a free entrance to Verona Cathedral, the Basilica of San Zeno, the Church of San Fermo Maggiore and the Basilica of Santa Anastasia.

How to save money on your Verona itinerary

The best way to discover the city and save money is to use the Verona Card . The pass includes:

• free entry to all major tourist sites
• skip the line entry at the Arena
• reduced entry to several museums
• free unlimited travel on the ATV city bus lines

By using the pass on this Verona day trip itinerary you’ll save €13 .

• Arena di Verona – €10
• Castelvecchio Museum – €6
• Lamberti Tower – €8
• Juliet’s House – €6
• Basilica di Santa Anastasia – €3

Total without the card – €33 If you use the card – €20 Total savings – €13

And I didn’t even include the free use of public transport (one ticket costs €1.3). So, even if you’re exploring Verona on a day trip, you can save at least €13. You can find more in my detailed review why the Verona Card is worth it .

Getting around in Verona

Find here a map with all the key sights from this Verona day trip itinerary.

Verona is easily accessible by foot. Yet, if walking is not your thing, you can always take the hop-on-hop-off bus . The bus takes you from the central train station to the historic centre. It’s very useful for Piazzale Castel San Pietro, as the scenic viewpoint is on the top of the hill.

How to get to Verona

Verona Porta Nuova is the city’s central train station. It’s an easy 15min walk away from the historic centre. Another option is to take public transport (there is a large bus station outside the train station) or the hop-on-hop-off bus.

If you’re planning to travel by train through Italy, book tickets in advance (they are cheaper if you buy earlier). Check timetables and book train tickets online at Trenitalia official website .

Be careful not to get off at Verona Porta Vescovo station, which is not within a walking distance of the tourist sights. The station you need is Verona Porta Nuova. 

A big part of Verona’s historic centre is a limited traffic zone (ZTL). So, if you’re arriving by car, make sure your hotel has parking on-site. Another option is to use any of the numerous car parks .

The city’s main airport is known under two names – Villafranca Airport (VRN) and Valerio Catullo Airport. It’s just 10km away from the city and is connected to the train station via a shuttle. The shuttle Aerobus runs every 20min and it takes 15min to reach Porta Nuova station.

Best day trips from Verona

If you decide to spend a little more time in Verona, don’t miss to take a day trip and explore the region. See below the two most popular destinations for a day trip.

Sirmione and Lake Garda

If you have time for only one day trip, do this. Lake Garda is not only the largest lake in all of Italy, but the scenery is breathtaking!

Sirmione lies on the shores of the lake. It’s a picturesque little town that boasts a 12th-century water-surrounded fortress.

How to get to Sirmione and Lake Garda

• the easiest way is to take this Sirmione and Lake Garda guided tour . It includes not only a guided tour of the walled town of Sirmione but also a boat tour of the lake.
• another option is to take the bus line LN026 from Verona Porta Nuova bus station to Sirmione (1-hour journey) 

Amarone Wine Trail Tour

If you’re a wine lover, this Amarone Wine Trail Tour is just for you! You’ll discover the wine valley of Valpolicella and learn the secrets of the Amarone winemaking. The tour also includes two wine tasting at authentic wineries!

How many days in Verona

Is one day in verona enough.

1 day is more than enough to discover the city and visit Arena di Verona, Castelvecchio Museum, Lamberti Tower and Juliet’s House. In fact, Verona is an easy and popular day trip from Venice and Milan.

How to see Verona in half a day

It’s possible to see the city in only half a day if you’re short on time. You can still follow my Verona itinerary, but you’ll have to skip the visit of some key sights.

For example, skip the visit of the Basilica di Santa Anastasia and see only outside the Arena and Juliet’s House. You’ll lose precious time at Juliet’s House, plus you can see the famous balcony from the courtyard. For city views choose between Lamberti Tower and Piazzale Castel San Pietro.

Best time to visit Verona

The best time to visit Verona is late spring (May and June) and early autumn (September and October). The high season is the summer months of July and August. Avoid these months if possible, because the crowds are big and the weather is too hot.

The Opera Festival takes place every year in June, July and August. During this time you can attend a classical music concert at the Arena! It’s a unique experience, so don’t miss it if you’re in the city at that time.

Every winter from the middle of November till Christmas, you can enjoy the magical Christmas markets .

Venice is not the only city famous for its carnival in the Veneto region. The Verona Carnival takes place on the last Friday before Lent and it’s one of the oldest in Italy!

Follow now for exclusive content

About the author

I am looking to visit verona and would like to know where the best place for a spa and pool for 2 adults and child also how much for the for tour tickets for a 7 year old

Hi Kate, For Spa I’d recommend you to stay in Hotel Milano . However, if the pool is a priority for you, you’ll need to look for a place outside Verona.

Hello Miss Milena,

I was looking at a 1 day trip in Verona and found your blog. It’s so detailed and super helpful. I will definitely follow them all and I hope to be able to visit your beautiful country too. I am traveling Europe with my husband. Also, I just want to say that the Bigoi Verona is permanently closed. Have a nice day! 🙂

Hi Paula, Thank you for your comment. I updated the itinerary. Have a great trip to Verona! 🙂

Hi Miss Milena,

I am looking to visit Verona for 1 day with my daughter. Please recommend a few places we could see? We have about 5 hours. Many Thanks Esther

This itinerary could be easily done in less than a day (if you’re visiting Verona on a day trip), so 5 hours are almost enough to see everything. 🙂 Still, it depends on how much time you’ll spend at each attraction. You can skip the part “More ideas for your one day in Verona” and choose a few must-see attractions only from the itinerary according to your and your daughter’s interests.

I’ll be happy to help if you have any specific questions, or if you at least give me more info on your interests, what you’d prefer to see and how old is your daughter.

Thank you for the easy and lovely recommendations 🙌

Thank you for your comment, Irem! 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name  *

Email  *

Add Comment  *

I accept the privacy policy

Post Comment

Fearlessly Italy

One Day in Verona – Epic 1-Day Verona Itinerary (With Map)

With so much to see and do, exploring Verona in one day is not an easy task.

One day in Verona is not enough to see everything the city has to offer, but being the city center quite compact and the main attractions easy to reach on foot or by public transport, you can dare to plan such a short trip. And we are here to help.

But if you are based in Trento , Bolzano , Milan , or Venice, you might as well plan a day trip to Verona to visit the most important landmarks. The city center is quite compact and walkable to day trips from other cities like this one from Venice or this one from Milan are very popular if you intend to stay only one day in Verona.

Our 1-day Verona itinerary is pretty packed because we feel the city has so much to offer that every minute counts. However, feel free to skip whichever landmark you think is too much if you are exploring Verona in a day only.

To make things easier for you, we are attaching a handy map to give you a better idea of the places and distances.

Table of Contents

Is a day trip to Verona worth it?

My visit to Verona has been a day trip from Trento one year when we decided to spend three weeks in Trentino-Alto Adige . We have managed to see and do quite a lot in one day in Verona so, yes, I think a day trip to this beautiful city in the Veneto region is totally worth it.

If you have only one day in Verona, you are obviously going to focus on the places you can’t miss. This is what our guide is about: the most iconic and famous landmarks anyone visiting Verona for the first time needs to see. And if you are planning a romantic trip, don’t forget that Verona is one of the best places to propose in Italy !

How much time do you need in Verona?

I think the perfect amount of time to devote to Verona is two days. Even though there are plenty of things to squeeze in a day in Verona, if you can stretch your trip one more day, you can enjoy a more relaxed experience.

If you have two days, you can even visit the same number of places but you will have more time to enjoy a traditional meal more often, you will have the chance to relax and take your time visiting the city’s highlights instead of rushing from one to another.

What to do in Verona for a day – Itinerary + Map

Enter the verona arena.

1.5 km/1 mile or 20 minutes walk from Verona train station/10 minutes by bus

Easy to reach by bus from the train station, the Arena is likely one of the first things to see if you are exploring Verona in a day. An iconic symbol of the city, it will remind you of the Roman Colosseum .

Verona’s Arena is hands down the most famous monument in the city and one of Italy’s largest amphitheaters built by the Romans in the 1st century. Just like Rome’s Colosseum, also the Arena of Verona was used as a place for entertainment. Here, citizens could attend gladiator fights and wild and exotic animal hunts.

Elliptical in shape, it had a capacity of 30.000 spectators and was built outside of the city’s walls to avoid large crowds in the city center.

You can visit the Arena with a private tour like this one that includes also skip-the-line entrance, or in the evening to enjoy an opera show .

• Where: Piazza Bra 1.
• When: Tuesday to Sunday 9 am-7 pm (last entrance 6.30 pm). It closes earlier when there are shows, check out here the calendar . Closed on Monday.
• How much: 10€, free for children up to 7 years old.

Take a coffee in Piazza Bra

1 minute on foot from the Arena

Right in front of the Arena is the large Piazza Bra you can hardly miss. After visiting the Arena, you can grab a table in one of the surrounding cafes of Piazza Bra and enjoy a coffee with a view of the archaeological site.

This is one of the most tourist-packed squares in Verona so bars and cafes will also be tourist quality. However, since the place is really beautiful, that’s OK to make an exception. When I went to Verona, I did just that.

After visiting the Arena, we went to sit in the bar in front and had a coffee. We didn’t order a full meal because we knew we would prefer more traditional places so we just had a coffee break and it wasn’t even too expensive.

Duck into San Fermo Maggiore Church

750 mt/2500 ft – around 10 minutes on foot from Piazza Bra

Of the four most important churches to visit in Verona in a day, San Fermo is the closest to the Arena, so I suggest you start from here. Located close to the Ponte Navi bridge, the church of San Fermo Maggiore was built in the Italian Gothic style even though the roof are visible elements typical of French architecture such as spires and pinnacles.

Fans of history and architecture will find this a very interesting building to explore because inside there are actually two churches to visit, the bottom and upper one. The bottom, known as “Chiesa Inferiore” features four naves and three apses. The cross vault, the decoration, the stairs, the windows, and the general structure are remnants of the original Benedictine building.

The upper part, known as “Chiesa Superiore” has a single Latin-cross nave and features five apses, several side chapels ad altars, and a beautiful wooden ceiling.

As little as 30 minutes will be enough to visit San Fermo church, so definitely something you can include in your 1-day Verona itinerary.

• Where: Via Dogana 2.
• When: Monday to Saturday 10 am-6 pm, Sunday 1-6 pm.
• How much: Free for praying, 4€ for tourist visits. If you are visiting all the main four churches of Verona (the Duomo, San Zeno, Sant’Anastasia, and San Fermo), the cumulative ticket costs 8€.

Relax in Piazza delle Erbe

550 mt/1800 ft – 7 minutes on foot from San Fermo Church

Known also as Piazza Erbe, this is the city’s oldest square so without a doubt one of the most fascinating and unmissable places to visit in one day in Verona. This lovely piazza is located where the ancient Roman Forum was and is quintessential to the city’s style. The lovely collaboration and perfect blend of artistic, historical and architectural feats skilfully assembled and extremely well-preserved that you can see in Piazza delle Erbe is recurring all across Verona.

Piazza Erbe can be considered the open-air parlor of the city. Its walls are the frescoed and imposing facades of the local notable palaces and bars and cafes that animate the spirit. From here, you can see important buildings such as the Lamberti Tower, Casa dei Giudici (Judges’ House), Mazzantis’ houses, Baroque-style Palazzo Maffei, and the medieval Merchants’ House (Casa dei Mercanti).

In fact, if you decide to skip your coffee in Piazza Bra, you can enjoy it here surrounded by the buildings that made the city’s history.

Climb Torre dei Lamberti

1 minute on foot from Piazza delle Erbe

For an incredible 360° view, climb the Lamberti Tower, a stone’s throw from Piazza delle Erbe. Dating back to the 12th century, its construction officially started in 1172, Torre dei Lamberti is 84 meters (275 feet) tall and is the city’s tallest building.

The tower was started by the Lamberti family of which there is no other historical trace. The initial building was in Romanesque style and measured only 37 meters. At the beginning of the 15th century, lightning damaged the upper part and restoration started more than 40 years later.

This is when it was added the white belfry we still see today and the tower reached its current height. The clock was added in 1779.

If you are into photography or simply sensitive to beauty, this is a fantastic place to climb even if you are visiting Verona in one day. You can easily book your entry online and it will be included also the elevator if you don’t feel like climbing all the stairs.

• Where: Via della Costa 2.
• When: Monday to Friday 10 am-6 pm, Saturday and Sunday 11 am-7 pm.
• How much: 6€.

Pose from Juliet’s balcony

180 mt/ 600 ft- 2 minutes on foot from the Lamberti Tower

This is possibly the most touristy thing in the city and likely what most visitors do even if they are only for a day in Verona. It’s not even sure it’s the actual Juliet’s house but you will find more people here than in the ancient Roman amphitheater.

This is a 13th-century building that Verona residents identified as the Capuletis’ house following the descriptions in Shakespeare’s tragedy.

Given the huge crowd, it’s hard to miss it. If you have only one day in Verona, you probably won’t have time to queue just to snap a picture from the balcony of Shakespeare’s unlucky lover. If you choose to do this, you might need to skip something else, depending on the line.

• Where: Via Cappello 23.
• When: Monday 1.30-7.30 pm, Tuesday to Sunday 8.30 am-7.30 pm.

See Romeo’s house

260 mt/850 ft – less than 5 minutes on foot from Juliet’s house

Just like Juliet’s house, also the mansion of the Montecchi family, a 14th-century building, has been identified by the locals according to the descriptions in Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet . Located close to her lover’s dwelling, unlike Juliet’s house, Romeo’s residence is not that busy so easy to see in Verona in one day.

The Montecchis were a very rich and powerful clan in medieval Verona, and their opulent greatly-kept mansion is now a private house. The brick walls surround the whole building that you can see only from outside.

• Where: Via Arche Scaligere 4.
• When: Anytime.
• How much: Free.

Try the local food for lunch

One of the most common Italian foods like polenta is also a typical dish in Verona. In fact, this is what I had when I visited, polenta with codfish ( baccalà ).

Since your last stops before lunch were the houses of Romeo and Juliet, you can find a restaurant in the area. We ate at the Ristorante Arche in Via Arche Scaligere 6, so basically next to Romeo’s house, and we were very happy about our choice.

A great way to know more about the local food is to join a food tour like this one if you think you can squeeze it in or if you are a true foodie!

Need help at the restaurant? Check out our guides to ordering food in Italy and more words for foods and drinks in Italian !

Pay a visit to Sant’Anastasia Basilica

250 mt/820 ft – 3 minutes on foot from Via Arche Scaligere where is Romeo’s house or the Arche restaurant

This is the city’s largest church so if you are seeing Verona in a day and can only do one church, this is a great choice. The Basilica devoted to Sant’Anastasia is a wonderful example of the Italian Gothic style.

It’s located on the site of a former church from the Longobard times that was devoted to 4th-century martyr Anastasia. In 1290, the Dominican friars settled here and started the Gothic construction they will devote to Saint Peter, a Christian martyr native from Verona who, together with San Zeno, is the patron saint of the city. This is why this basilica is also known as “Chiesa di San Pietro da Verona in Sant’Anastasia”.

Beautiful inside out, the interior of Sant’Anastasia Basilica features three naves supported by 12 large red marble pillars while across the transept are five chapels.

• Where: Piazza di Sant’Anastasia.
• When: Monday to Friday 9.30 am-6.30 pm, Saturday until 6 pm, Sunday 1-6 pm.

The complex of Verona’s Duomo

400 mt/1300 ft – 5 minutes on foot from Sant’Anastasia Basilica

In one day in Verona, you can’t skip one of its most important and famous churches, its Duomo, also known as Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta and Santa Maria Matricolare. Rather than a single church, here you will visit a whole complex of religious buildings, the church of Sant’Elena, of San Giovanni in Fonte, and a cloister, along with early-Christian basilicas of which we can visit the ruins.

On the site where is the current Cathedral, in Roman times, were villas with private bathrooms and, likely, also sacred temples. The first early-Christian basilica was built in the area currently occupied by the church of Sant’Elena. In fact, under the church of Sant’Elena, you can still see the mosaic floors of both the early-Christian churches.

This is a very fascinating site that will take slightly longer to visit than the rest of the churches. I would carve out at least one hour of your time, so you need to see if you can make it in your 1-day Verona trip or if you need to skip other sights.

• Where: Piazza Duomo.
• When: Monday to Friday 11 am-5.30 pm, Saturday until 3.30 pm, Sunday and holidays 1.30-5.30 pm.

Visit San Zeno Maggiore Basilica

1.8 km/1.1 miles – around 25 minutes on foot from the Duomo

San Zeno Basilica is also a very important church but it needs a bit of a longer walk or a bus to reach. However, if you are bound to explore the local history, San Zeno Maggiore is quite of a big highlight to see in one day in Verona that cultural travelers won’t want to miss.

One of the highest examples of churches in Romanesque style in Italy, its facade enshrined between the beautiful 12th-century bell tower and the 13th-century tower of the Abbey, immediately catches the eye of the visitor and shows the influence of the Lombard-Emilian architecture in the Veneto region.

The church was originally built around the burial place of Zeno Bishop of Verona. Today, under the central staircase is the crypt where the remains of Saint Zeno are kept. From the main square, on the left side of the cathedral, you can access the beautiful 10th-century cloister that, together with the tower, is the only remaining structure of the Benedictine Abbey demolished in the 19th century.

Among the artistic masterpieces you can see in the complex is the Triptych of the great 15th-century Italian painter and engraver Andrea Mantegna.

• Where: Piazza San Zeno 2.
• When: Monday to Friday 9 am-6.30 pm, Saturday until 6 pm, Sunday and holidays 1-6.30 pm.

Stroll around Verona bridges

Walking by the Adige River and admiring the city’s bridges is one of the most suggestive things you can do in a day in Verona.

From the most ancient Ponte Pietra bridge dating back to Roman times and erected in the 1st century BC to the modern 19th-century Ponte Garibaldi through the beautiful Ponte di Castelvecchio, a stroll along the river is a fantastic way to explore the city and its highlights.

Also known as Ponte Scaligero, Ponte di Castelvecchio bridge was built in the 14th century and is a fantastic example of military engineering and served the defensive purpose of the stronghold of the medieval Castelvecchio complex.

How to reach Verona

Our very favorite way to reach Verona is certainly by train because it’s well connected to other big cities. Especially if you are staying only a day in Verona, the places you need to visit are easy to reach on foot or by public transport, and the car will only give you the headache of traffic and parking.

However, if you are spending one day in Verona as a part of a longer 2-week or 10-day Italy itinerary and have been renting a car, we are also going to give you some suggestions on how to reach driving.

There are several trains that reach Verona. You can find high-speed Frecciarossa trains from Rome, some involving one change or some direct. The direct Frecciarossa from Rome to Verona takes 3 hours and 20 minutes.

In one hour and 15 minutes you can reach from Milan, while from Venice, it takes an hour with the Frecciarossa, an hour and a half with the Regionale Veloce train and a little more than 2 hours with the slower Regionale train. In about an hour, you can reach even from Trento without the need to change train.

This was our choice when we spent one day in Verona.

Check out Omio for train and bus schedules

Verona has also an airport, Valerio Catullo, that connects the city to other Italian cities such as Rome, Catania, Cagliari, Palermo, Brindisi, or European hubs including Frankfurt, Munich, Amsterdam, Dublin, and London.

You can also get there by car. If you are coming from Rome or the south in general, you will need to take the A1 highway, while from Milan, you will take the A4 highway.

If you are driving and spending only one day in Verona, I suggest you park out of the ZTL (limited traffic zone) and use public transport to get around to avoid hefty fines. See the municipality site for info on the ZTL .

Check out Discover Cars to rent your car in Italy.

Top tips to optimize your time in a day in Verona

• Arrive early. This is very important. If you reach Verona early, you can be at the Arena as soon as it opens, you can enjoy a coffee before you start sightseeing or you can even take a walk before the landmarks open and save much time afterward. Check out Omio for trains and bus schedules .
• Buy a Verona Card. A Verona Card is very handy because you will have access to the Arena and other museums and landmarks, and all entrances are skip-the-line. You can opt for a 24 or 48-hour card in case you want to stay longer in the city.
• Use public transport. Don’t even think about renting a car. First of all, the places you are going to visit in one day in Verona are easy to reach on foot. Second, if you have purchased the Verona Card, public transport is included.
• Plan your itinerary beforehand. Having an itinerary before arriving in Verona will help you save time during the day, especially because you have limited time in the city.
• Consider Hop-on Hop-off buses. If you are really short on time and want to see as much as you can, a good solution can be joining one of the Hop-on Hop-off buses that take you around the city and from where you can get off at the landmarks you want to visit and see the other ones only from outside.

Where to eat in one day in Verona

If you are staying only one day in Verona or even if you want to add a few more days, I don’t recommend heading too far from the city center to eat. There are plenty of restaurants around the main landmarks so you don’t necessarily need to fall for a tourist trap. Apart from the already mentioned Ristorante Arche, here are a few more suggestions in the city center perfect for your lunch break if you are only one day in Venice.

• Hostaria Vecchia Fontanina (Piazzetta Chiavica 5). Typical local osteria serving traditional dishes in the city center not far from Piazza delle Erbe and Sant’Anastasia Basilica.
• Vecio Macello (Via Macello 8). Good fish and seafood restaurant located some 10 minutes walk from the Arena.
• Terrazza Bar Al Ponte (Via Ponte Pietra 26). Bar and cafe for casual meals, aperitif, or coffee break with a beautiful view of the river.

Where to stay in Verona

Let’s say you have fallen in love with Verona and you want to stretch your trip further and add a night or two. Definitely try to find a stay around the city center. Check out some of our suggestions.

• Hotel Giulietta e Romeo – Cool hotel near the Arena equipped with all comforts and a gym.
• Hotel Accademia – Luxury 4-star hotel in the city center.
• Ai Ponti Verona – Modern apartments fully furnished and featuring a well-fitted kitchen and all the necessary facilities.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

One Day in a City

24 Hour Travel Itineraries to Make the Most of a Day in a Destination

One Day in Verona, Italy Itinerary: Ultimate Guide of What to Do When Short on Time

September 13, 2021 By Gina Posts on this site may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here .

Things to Do and See in Verona in Just 24 Hours 

As soon as you step into the city center for your day in Verona, it feels as though you’ve stepped into a place of fairy tales. 

The pastel pink and yellow hues of the buildings combined with the uneven cobblestones and romantic lull of the Adige River are storybook features of Verona that make you quickly see why this lovely destination is deemed Italy’s City of Love. 

Verona is famous for being the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet , as well as the home of opera. The historic city center is easy to get around and is the perfect size for a day of exploring, whether you’re spending 24 hours in Verona or just doing a day trip from Venice or Milan. 

Read on for travel tips and a detailed, expertly put together itinerary for spending one day in Verona. 

How to Get to Verona, Italy

Verona is located in the region of Veneto, only a 90-minute drive from Venice and about two hours from Milan, making it a perfect day trip from either city. 

You can reach Verona by car and find ample free parking options at the edge of the city center. The easiest to reach and largest free parking lot is called Parcheggio Porta Palio.

Verona is also easily reached by train or bus. Trains leave from Milan and Venice nearly every hour of the day and companies like FlixBus have low-cost tickets between the three cities about five times a day.

One Day in Verona Itinerary: Top Things To Do

Now for the 24-hour Verona itinerary you’ve been waiting for! This travel guide breaks down all he top things to do with a day in Verona and the best order to do them in. 

After the recommended itinerary, you’ll find hotel recommendation plus a few more ideas for what to do in Verona depending on your interests. 

Enter Castelvecchio & Cross the Beautiful Castelvecchio Bridge

Upon entering the city center of Verona, head first to the imposing Castelvecchio, a Scaliger castle and now a museum of famous Veronese works. This castle was the most significant military structure to the Scaliger family who ruled Verona dating back to the Middle Ages. 

The Castelvecchio Bridge is completely fortified, the stone walls more than twice the size of the many tourists who come here to take a photo in this iconic landmark. The big and tiny windows over the Adige River are some of the best places to take in the pretty views of Verona. 

Piazza Bra & Verona Arena

The main square in Verona is called Piazza Bra. This wide, open-air square is always bustling with people. 

The most significant part of the square is the Verona Arena, a Roman amphitheater built in the first century. Not only is the structure still standing and one of the best preserved Roman arenas in the world, but it is still in use today to host special events and the operas that Verona is known for.  

Eat Lunch at Signorvino Below the Clock Tower

For a lunch boasting amazing views, Signorvino is the perfect spot. It offers homey, traditional dishes like Pasta alla Carbonara, but what it’s really known for is the wide selection of regional wines from all over Italy, with suggested pairings for lunch. 

The best thing about eating on this corner of Piazza Bra is you are right beneath the bell tower adjacent to the Palazzo della Gran Guardia. You can also see the Torre dei Lamberti, a historic tower with a large clock on one side, peeking out from behind the crowded rooftops as you enjoy your meal. 

Other great restaurants in Verona include:

• Osteria Il Ciottolo – Traditional Italian Dishes
• Yard – Modern Michelin Star Restaurant
• Torcolo – Traditional Italian Dishes

Verona’s Lively Piazza delle Erbe

One of Verona’s most unique spots to visit is the Piazza delle Erbe. While Piazza Bra is wide and grand, Piazza delle Erbe is crowded and chaotic – in the absolute best way. 

The energy of Piazza delle Erbe, from the vendors at market stands to the Spritz-sipping locals at aperitivo, is invigorating and exciting. 

Piazza delle Erbe is also a great viewing point for the famous Torre dei Lamberti and the Torre del Gardello.

Piazza dei Signori and Scaliger Tombs

If you stroll beneath Torre dei Lamberti out of Piazza delle Erbe, you’ll be greeted by another square, Piazza dei Signori, surrounded by beautiful buildings called “Palazzi.” 

The Palazzo di Cansignorio is worth entering to see the grand staircase of the courtyard, which is a notable photo spot in Verona. 

By just walking a bit further, you’ll see one of the most unique things to do in Verona, which is to visit the Scaliger Tombs, or Arche Scaligere. These gothic 14th century resting places are intricately designed and for just one euro you can enter the cemetery to see the ornate architecture up-close. 

Visit Juliet’s House in Verona

Verona lives up to its notoriety as the setting for Romeo and Juliet by inviting you to visit “La Casa di Giulietta.” Juliet’s house is a few steps away from Piazza delle Erbe, in an unassuming passageway off the busy walking street. 

Well, it’s not the most unassuming place, as there are employees of the city of Verona standing at the entrance in addition to a line in the middle of the bustling street where you can wait to enter. 

It is free to visit the courtyard of Juliet’s house and see the iconic view of her balcony. As tradition in Verona, if you touch the breast of Juliet’s statue in the courtyard, good luck will come your way. 

Walk Over the Ponte Pietra

As you make your way through the city, you’ll eventually reach the other side of the Adige River that encircles the historic center of Verona. A beautiful way to cross it is via the Ponte Pietra bridge. 

The Ponte Pietra is one of the most significant bridges of Verona due to its history and unique architecture. 

This bridge dates back to Roman times (100 BC) and has unique rounded archways that enhance the romantic feel of the city. It was destroyed in WWII but fortunately rebuilt and restored. 

Climb Up to Castel San Pietro for Panoramic Views at Sunset

As sunset approaches and the day winds down, cross the Ponte Pietra to make your way up to Castel San Pietro. The trek up to the top of the hill can be steep at times, but is no longer than 10 minutes, with various overlook points on the way. You could also opt to go to the top by cable car. 

Once you reach Castel San Pietro, you’re greeted by panoramic views of rose-colored Verona. This is the perfect picture spot and place to relax at the end of your day. You could even grab a takeaway pizza and have a casual dinner sitting on the walls. 

Verona Hidden Gem: When climbing up to Castel San Pietro, there are few different starting points. If you start near Ponte Pietra to the left, make sure to walk down the path to the right on your return. You will find a magical, hidden gem view of the ancient Roman ruins and theater with the panoramic backdrop of the city. 

Where To Stay Overnight in Verona

If you are looking to spend the night in Verona to stretch your day out into a 24 hour or 36 hour adventure, you’ll find no shortage of hotels perfect for a one-night stay. 

For a stunning view of the Arena at an inexpensive price tag, the best place to stay is B&B Opera Prima . 

If you want to spend a little more and still be in the city center, Relais Empire is a good mid-range option, while Hotel Colomba d’Oro is a perfect luxury stay with ornately decorated rooms.

More Things to Do in Verona 

• If you love to shop, spend some time strolling Via Giuseppe Mazzini off of Piazza Bra, Verona’s main shopping street full of unique and luxury brands!
• For a unique travel experience, you can go rafting down the Adige River and under the famous ancient bridges of Verona. 
• Other things to do around Verona include Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, or visit the unique mountainside church of Santuario Madonna della Corona. 
• Verona is a very walkable city so giving yourself some time just to amble the pretty side streets is an enjoyable endeavor. Just make sure to wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for the sometimes unpleasant uneven cobblestones. 

Verona is a perfect day trip to fill in your Italy itinerary for all the things there are to do and see. It’s small size and centrally-located attractions make it walkable and enjoyable to explore even with just 24 hours to spend. 

About the Author: Michela Sieman blogs at She Goes the Distance . She enjoys sharing her love for travel with others and helping other women learn how they can feel empowered to explore the world.

I'm a former travel agency marketing director turned freelance travel writer. My editorial and copywriting work has been published on and in USA TODAY, Travel + Leisure, the Travel Channel Cities app, TripSavvy, and many more online and print publications. I especially love sharing my knowledge of traveling with limited vacation time, making the most of cruise ports of call, and vacationing with kids. I also enjoy sharing my favorite travel gear and products to make traveling easier!

Search for a Destination…

One Day in Verona Itinerary – Top Things to Do in Verona, Italy

Home of the most famous love story/three-day romance in the world, Verona owes much of its glory and name recognition to Shakespeare. Naturally, many of the things to do in Verona have something to do with Romeo and Juliet – you can take photos under Juliet’s balcony, in addition to visiting the homes or the tombs of the two tragic lovers. But Verona is not the kind of city to rest on its laurels and milk the Shakespeare thing indefinitely. Known as “Little Rome”, Verona leads a rich and varied cultural life of its own. In the city’s Arena, a gorgeous Roman amphitheater, you can experience opera the way it’s meant to be experienced – in a venue more storied and more ancient even than the numerous gorgeous churches and enchanting little bridges over the Adige. Impressive art, marvelous regional wine, and amazing locally sourced food make Verona one of the most attractive destinations in Italy .

Plan your trip to Verona

1. WHAT’S THE BEST TIME TO VISIT VERONA? 2. A FEW FACTS ABOUT VERONA 3. ONE DAY IN VERONA ITINERARY 3.1. Start Your Trip by Visiting the Verona Cathedral 3.2. Follow It up with the Basilica Di Santa Anastasia 3.3. Take a Short Walk to Arche Scaligeri 3.4. Spend Some Time at the Piazza Dei Signori 3.5. Explore the Charming Produce and Flower Market at the Piazza Delle Erbe 3.6. Take a Well-Deserved Lunch Break 3.7. Ask the All-important Question from Giulietta’s Balcony 3.8. Check out the Verona Arena 3.9. Continue to Arco dei Gavi 3.10. Visit the Castelvecchio Museum 3.11. Cross the Castelvecchio Bridge 3.12. Treat Yourself to a Real Veronese Dinner 3.13. Have a Few Drinks at a Nearby Cocktail Bar 4. WHERE TO STAY IN VERONA? 5. DAY TRIPS FROM VERONA 6. EXTRA TIPS FOR VISITING VERONA

WHAT’S THE BEST TIME TO VISIT VERONA?

No matter when you choose to visit, you will always find things to do in Verona. That said, most travelers agree that the best time to visit Verona is between late May and early October. Naturally, summer is the most popular season , with tourists flooding all of the most popular places in the city. If that sounds like something you would like to avoid, then plan your visit either in spring or fall. September is always a good choice due to lower room rates and consistently warm temperatures.

However, one of the reasons why the period from June to August is so popular is the Verona Arena Opera , with spectacular evening performances in the Roman era amphitheater . If you are a fan of classical music (and even if you just want to experience something special on your Verona day trip), then the best time to visit Verona is definitely during the Opera season. 

A FEW FACTS ABOUT VERONA

Verona is a relatively small city on the Adige river in the Veneto region in Italy. Like the rest of the region, Verona was under Venetian rule between the 7th and 18th centuries, and still remains one of the seven provincial capitals, alongside Padua, Vicenza, Treviso, and others. Verona’s history, however, predates the Venetian Republic: it was founded sometime in the 1 st century BC, as evidenced by the four prominent Roman remains in the city. These include the amphitheater, the Arco dei Gavi, the Porta dei Borsari, and the ancient theater on the left bank of the Adige river.

The numerous attractions have made Verona a popular tourist destination. In spite of that, it is still not as overrun by tourists as Venice . There are still several areas and small squares in Verona where you can slink away and avoid the crowds. Find a secluded trattoria and try the amazing food the city is famous for, especially the risotto , gnocchi, and bigoli. Follow it up with a couple of glasses of wine. The entire region is famous for producing some of the best wine in the country – especially the famous Amarone , which is made of raisins and was once reserved exclusively for kings.

ONE DAY IN VERONA ITINERARY

Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do on your one day in Verona.

Start Your Trip by Visiting the Verona Cathedral

Start your day early, around 8 or 9 AM , which should hive you plenty of time to see all of the major attractions in Verona in a day. Consider booking a room at Due Torri Hotel , which is close to the first attraction on our list – the Verona Cathedral , officially called Duomo Cattedrale di Santa Maria Matricolare. The cathedral is located on Piazza Vescovado , between two bridges next to a prominent bend on the southern bank of the Adige river. It is a gorgeous Romanesque cathedral with a striped façade , notable for its beautiful wall paintings and preserved artwork by Titian, the most prominent member of the 16 th -century Venetian school. The present cathedral is the third one built on the same spot. The first edifice was built in 380 AD, and the second one in the 8 th century.

Both were destroyed by an earthquake. The structure we see today was built in 1138 , but it also underwent major remodeling in the 15 th and 16 th century, when the prominent Gothic elements were added, changing the cathedral’s appearance. The entry fee is 3 EUR, and touring the gorgeous church takes up to 50 minutes (with an audio guide included). If you plan on visiting other prominent churches in Verona, pay 6 EUR instead and get the ticket that includes all of the 4 main churches in the city.

Follow It up with the Basilica Di Santa Anastasia

Another beautiful church that tops the list of things to see in Verona is the 13 th -century Basilica di Santa Anastasia, located just 350 meters from the cathedral. You can get there in 4 minutes if you just go straight down via Duomo. The biggest attraction in Sant’Anastasia is the famous fresco by Pisanello, “St. George & the Princess,” although its gorgeous red Veronese marble pillars and the 72-meter bell tower are equally impressive. You will notice that the building’s façade was never quite completed. Still, you can see what the church would have looked like inside, in a painting above one of the altars. Also make sure to check out the wonderful terracotta figures, unique works of art by Michele di Firenze.

Take a Short Walk to Arche Scaligeri

If you belonged to a wealthy and influential Italian family in the Middle Ages/Renaissance, it is likely that your life was immortalized in a gorgeous work of art in a square somewhere. Still, not even Cangrande I , the founder of the powerful Scaligeri dynasty (also known as Della Scala ), could have imagined that his “tomb” would be admired by millions of people from all over the world. Members of the prominent family ruled the city as Lords of Verona in the 13 th and 14 th century. Cangrande himself is today perhaps most famous as the main patron of Dante Alighieri.

Arche Scaligeri , which is located just 200 meters south of the Basilica Di Santa Anastasia, is a burial site with 5 gorgeous Gothic monuments behind a wrought iron gate. Also make sure to check out the nearby Torre dei Lamberti , the tallest medieval tower in Verona. You can actually climb the 83-meter tall tower and enjoy amazing, sweeping views of the city, just like the noble members of the Lamberti family when the tower was constructed in 1172 . If you don’t feel like you can climb the 368 stairs to the top, worry not – there’s also an elevator inside, allowing you to save some energy for all the other things to see in Verona.

Spend Some Time at the Piazza Dei Signori

The large public square between the Torre dei Lamberti and Arche Scaligeri is called Piazza dei Signori or the Lords Square in English. When the Scaglieri family ruled Verona, this square was the heart of the city and a major gathering place. Owing to that fact, Piazza dei Signori is one of the most beautiful squares in Verona to this day, with magnificent 14 th century arches and beautiful old palaces surrounding the space.

Notable buildings include the council Lodge or Loggia del Consiglio (dating back to 1476), the Palazzo del Podesta (home of the famous Della Scalla family), Casa della Pieta, Palazzo dei Tribunali, Palazzo del Comune, Palazzo dei Giudici, Palazzo della Ragione, and others. The square is also sometimes called Dante’s Square because of the large statue of Dante Alighieri lost in thought occupying the center of the square. The statue was erected in 1865.

Explore the Charming Produce and Flower Market at the Piazza Delle Erbe

One of the largest and most vibrant squares in the city, Piazza Delle Erbe is a veritable Verona must see, literally less than 100 meters west of the Piazza Dei Signori. Just head west and walk through the Arco della Costa and you’re there. It’s a beautiful gate with a real whalebone (rib) hanging in the arch . This is just one reminder of the time when exotic items and rare spices were sold in the square beyond, their unique fragrances spreading in every direction.

Even today, Piazza delle Erbe still serves as Verona’s Market Square, with a produce and flower market held there every day apart from Sunday. Feel free to tour the square and peruse the colorful goods, just like the locals and their ancestors all the way back to Roman times. As you explore the area, you will come across numerous monuments to the square’s age and significance, such as the gorgeous statue of Madonna Verona , dating back to 380 AD.

Take a Well-Deserved Lunch Break

TIP:  If you are food and wine lover, this tour is for you!

The only problem when it comes to eating in Verona is choosing the right restaurant among hundreds of quaint, authentic establishments lining every street and square in the city. If you want to be able to tour Verona in a day, you’ll want to plan in advance and make a reservation so you won’t have to spend an hour or more going from place to place unable to decide where you want to eat, or, even worse, unable to get a seat.

Among Verona’s very best trattorias, Trattoria al Pompiere stands out with its long tradition (it first opened in the first half of the 20 th century), warm, welcoming atmosphere, and delicious local dishes. They have an impressive cheese counter with almost a hundred types of cheese. When it comes to main courses, they serve only the best of local Veronese and Veneto cuisine, such as the excellent horsemeat stew with polenta and the Vicenza-style salt cod.

Trattoria al Pompiere is located just off Piazza Delle Erbe , in a charming little side alley to the south (Vicolo Regina D’Ungheria). For pizza, consider Pizzeria Du De Cope , located southwest of the Dante statue in a straight line down Via Pellicciai (300 meters). The pizzeria, occupying the space of the old Du De Cope Tavern, serves authentic Neapolitan pizza, with a great selection of Italian craft beers (from Piedmont, Tuscany, Umbria, and Veneto), and amazing wines from the Veronese hills.

Ask the All-important Question from Giulietta’s Balcony

Just like all the other things to see in Verona, Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta) is also very close to the city center. You can get there in under a minute from Piazza Delle Erbe via Via Cappello. Located in a small courtyard, the iconic balcony is unmistakable as it protrudes from the large 14 th -century house. Likely one of the most famous attractions in Verona, the house is said to have inspired Shakespeare, even though there’s no evidence that the Bard ever visited Verona.

But that doesn’t stop thousands of hopeless romantics from visiting the house, which is also a museum , and proclaiming “O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?” from the balcony as they stare longingly into the distance. The house’s charm is undeniable, heightened by the 14 th -century exhibitions and the original bed used in the 1936 Zeffirelli film.

Check out the Verona Arena

After touring Juliet’s House, take a short walk to Via Stella and then continue in a straight line until you reach Arena di Verona ( get a skip-a-line ticket ), a gorgeous, immaculately preserved Roman amphitheater located on a large square (Piazza Bra) with a monument to Vittorio Emanuele II in its center. The whole walk should take 10 minutes tops, down a charming street lined with remarkable historic buildings such as the beautiful Chiesa di San Nicolò all’ Arena, whose front resembles classical Greek temples. The Arena itself, just a few meters down the street, was built in 30 AD , when it was capable of accommodating 30,000 people who came from far and wide to attend theatrical performances and major sports events of the time.

It was badly damaged in the 1117 earthquake (the same that destroyed the old cathedral), and it was mostly abandoned until the Renaissance period when it was finally renovated. The opera performances first started in the early 1900s, and have since evolved to become some of the most brilliant productions, performances, and concerts in the world. If you visit Verona between June and August, try to snag a seat at one of the performances and soak in the mystical, reverential atmosphere.

Continue to Arco dei Gavi

Since we’re already touring ancient Roman architectural marvels, it would be a sin to skip Arco dei Gavi , a massive white-marble triumphal arch from the 1 st century, built to honor the Roman Gavia family, ancient residents of the city. The arch is located on the bank of the Adige river, overlooking the gorgeous Castelvecchio Bridge. You can get there in less than 5 minutes from Piazza Bra, simply by following Via Roma . The arch was part of the fortified city walls during the Middle Ages and served as a gate entrance. It was disassembled by the French after the Napoleonic Walls, only to be finally reconstructed in its current location in 1932. Take some time to admire the remarkable structure, made of Veronese marble, especially the ornately decorated capitals.

Visit the Castelvecchio Museum

Right next door to Arco dei Gavi, you see a well-preserved medieval castle overlooking the river, with tall red-brick walls and monumental turrets at each of the corners. Built by the Della Scala family under Cangrande II in 1356, the castle primarily served as a utilitarian military structure, which explains its somewhat plain appearance. But don’t let the exterior fool you.

The interior houses a museum with a vast collection of medieval sculptures, paintings, and ancient weapons. With 2,500 paintings and 8,000 prints, its assortment of art covers the period between the Middle Ages and the 18 th century. The castle itself is a notable example of Gothic architecture , used by Napoleon himself and later by Austrian soldiers when the Austro-Hungarian Empire ruled the region. The museum closes at 6:45 PM, so make sure to come at least an hour prior to have enough time to take a tour of the castle and admire the most important exhibitions.

Cross the Castelvecchio Bridge

Another beautiful landmark built by the Della Scala family, Castelvecchio Bridge is a part of the castle complex, built in 1354. It is a beautiful brick construction across the Adige, a monumental remnant of a different era, with stairs leading down to the river (great for taking pictures), and a gorgeous nearby garden. If you peep inside, you will notice that the bridge houses the Civic Museum of Verona , although staying on the outside and taking in the sights is a much more worthwhile experience. As a relevant historical side note, it is worth mentioning that the bridge was destroyed by the Germans as they retreated in 1945, but was luckily rebuilt in 1951. Hotel Bologna is very close and a great place to stay to explore this part of the city.

Treat Yourself to a Real Veronese Dinner

As you will hopefully notice, the Castelvecchio Bridge is even more beautiful in the evening, especially when the sun is setting. Spend some time enjoying the sights and exploring the area around the river before choosing a nice restaurant or a trattoria for dinner . As per usual, it is advised to make reservations in advance. Ristorante Maffei , located on Piazza Delle Erbe in the historic Palazzo Maffei, is an excellent choice, reminiscent of the millenniums of history that the whole Piazza is steeped in. The setting is absolutely unbeatable, from the palace (built somewhere between 1623 and 1663), to the beautiful statues surrounding the terrace balustrade.

The staff speak very good English, which is in itself kind of irrelevant compared to the excellent food and the gorgeous courtyard setting. Between the appetizers and the main course, you can actually tour the Roman ruins in the basement, a real treat. If you haven’t already, try the Amarone and pair it with one of the meat dishes, such as steak or lamb. If you want something a bit simpler, such as a quick bite followed by a couple of cocktails or a beer, you can’t go wrong with La Tradision, located on Via Guglielmo Oberdan, not far from the Arena. The ambiance is very friendly and relaxing, with an assortment of snacks, sandwiches, cold cuts, cheeses, salami, and sausages.

Have a Few Drinks at a Nearby Cocktail Bar

If you’re not sure what to do in Verona apart from sightseeing and attending concerts, here’s an idea: wine, cocktails, and beer. Pick your poison. All of that and more can be found at the Grande Giove Cocktail bar , a beloved, cozy bar east of the river on Via Seghe S. Tomaso. In addition to outstanding precision cocktails, the bar serves local wines and craft beer. The bar is frequented by locals, which is saying a lot about the great atmosphere and the staff, especially the owner Giovanni, the warm and welcoming heart and soul of the place.

WHERE TO STAY IN VERONA?

No doubt, there is plenty to see in Verona. So much so that you have to plan your schedule down to the tiniest detail if you want to see everything. A vital part of that planning should be deciding where to stay, at a hotel near Verona Villafranca Airport (or Valerio Catullo Airport; don’t let the two names confuse you) or somewhere in the city. While the choice ultimately depends on how much time you have, if you are heading into the city, we have selected the very best accommodation in town in each category. Take a look!

TIP: Click here for the best accommodation options in Verona.

Due Torri Hotel

Piazza Sant’Anastasia 4, Verona Historical Centre, 37121

The large rooftop terrace and amazing, sweeping views of Verona’s historic center are merely the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what Due Torri Hotel has to offer. Luxurious and elegant, the property features a gorgeous lobby that is highly sought after for cultural events and exhibitions. The Art-Nouveau restaurant is another highlight, as are the large, comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi access and satellite TV. The hotel’s supreme location at the very heart of the city, near the Basilica di Santa Anastasia and less than 5 minutes from Juliet’s balcony, serves as the perfect starting point for travelers looking to see as much of Verona in a day as possible.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Hotel Accademia

Via Scala 12, Verona Historical Centre, 37121

Another centrally located property, Hotel Accademia is a bit closer to the Arena (350 m), housed in a historic building that was once owned by Giovanni Zenatello, a world-renowned opera singer who was instrumental in making the Verona Arena one of the greatest opera venues in the world. As if this remarkable pedigree isn’t enough, the hotel’s rooms were also frequently occupied by Maria Callas . The facilities that the property offers are unmistakably modern, including the up-to-date fitness center with Technogym equipment, the outdoor sun terrace with loungers, and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.

Hotel Bologna

Piazzetta Scalette Rubiani, 3, Verona Historical Centre, 37121

Hotel Bologna has everything you can possibly need for an unforgettable stay in Verona, starting with the gorgeous historic building a stone’s throw away from the Arena. The rooms are comfortable and classically decorated, with air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs with satellite access, and free Wi-Fi. To make sightseeing even more convenient, free bicycles are available at the hotel’s reception, while the staff are all warm, accommodating, and helpful.

The Hostello

Via Venti Settembre 80, 37129

Beautiful, comfortable, and welcoming, The Hostello stands out as one of the best hostels in Italy, with a beautiful garden, a modern shared lounge, and cozy rooms, some of which feature a balcony. Located only 2 km from the Piazza delle Erbe, The Hostello regales its visitors with a free continental breakfast, friendly and helpful staff, beautifully designed bathrooms, inviting common areas, and charming little quirks, such as the doors that open using a password. The rooms will make you feel you’re home, with the only downside being the fact that you will eventually have to leave.

DAY TRIPS FROM VERONA

Should you be so fortunate that you have more than a day to spend in Verona, you really should consider a day trip or two from the city. There are many amazing locations to choose from, and exploring Italy is always a great idea, no matter how you slice it. Here are a few destinations you really should consider.

Lago di Garda – first and foremost, Lake Garda , the largest and one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy, is less than an hour away from Verona and a perfect destination. The lake’s crystal-clear waters are lined by fairytale towns and villages, magnificent palaces, and towering mountains. This is like entering a completely different world and one of the best day trips from Verona you can make!

Dolomites – speaking about mountains, perhaps a day trip from Verona to the Dolomites is more up your alley? Now, this is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which speaks volumes of the beauty you will encounter here. Nature is nothing short of spectacular, and the views are fantastic once you climb up a bit. Perfect for anyone looking to spend a wonderful day outdoors.

Soave – How about an epicurean Soave wine tour with a tasting ? This exceptionally charming little town is well known for its wine, and any foodie should count themselves lucky to be able to visit. In fact, this whole region is very prolific when it comes to wines, and if you’d like to know more about what the broader region of Verona has to offer, make sure to check out this related article. Venice – yes, Venice! Just over an hour away by car from Verona lies the most famous city on water in the world, so this is a great opportunity to spend and thoroughly enjoy one day in Venice . The culture, the architecture, the gondolas, the food… Describing this mythical city in this short paragraph simply wouldn’t be fair. Come and see it – it’s a trip you’ll never forget.

EXTRA TIPS FOR VISITING VERONA

-If you find yourself near the Porta Nuova railway station, pick up a free map of Verona from the nearby tourist office, useful for its public transport routes & extensive list of upcoming events.

-Don’t bother driving – you can get to almost all of the major things to see in Verona on foot. The historic center is pedestrian anyway. As a bonus, you’ll avoid frequent traffic jams.

-Verona is quite safe compared to some European cities. Even so, try to follow some basic security precautions and protect your valuables.

PIN FOR LATER!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Verona Itinerary, feel free to share them in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

This a very informative post! If I may add, the Scaliger Castle in Villafranca di Verona is a great old fortress definitely worth a visit! Just 20 minutes from Verona. I love it there!

Thank you for the extra tip! 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Let's be friends! Sign up receive our monthly newsletter with updates and new in-depth guides. 

The Best Things to Do in Verona in One Day: Complete Guide

Only have one day in Verona and wondering what to do with your time? You’re in the right place! Sitting at a wine bar near our apartment on our last night in Verona, we were talking about different cities in Italy and what makes Verona special. Essentially, we realized, Verona has everything we love about Italy – good food and wine, a feeling that there’s a ton of history beneath your feet, and an unmistakable romance in the air thanks to the cobblestone streets and colorful old buildings. 

What is noticeably missing are the not so enjoyable aspects of other Italian cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice – the huge crowds of tourists, mostly, and the associated effects of overtourism. 

We loved Verona, and were completely charmed by its romantic cobblestone alleys, the gorgeous Adige River and the many picturesque bridges, and its low-key, young vibe. It’s not really a hidden gem, since it’s one of the most visited cities in Northern Italy, but we think it’s well worth a day or more (if you have it) on your Italy itinerary. 

In this guide, we’re going to go through the best things to do in Verona, some logistics that you’ll want to know for your trip, and how to put it all together for an amazing day in Verona.

Planning a trip to Italy? You won’t want to miss our guide to planning an incredible Italy itinerary , with ideas for 7, 10, and 14 days in Italy, how to organize your trip, and the best things to do and see along the way.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

The Verona Card: Worth it or Nah?

Usually, city cards for tourists are designed in a way that doesn’t necessarily pay out unless you’re literally planning on spending your entire itinerary hopping from museum to museum (or other sights) covered by the pass.

Spoiler alert: that’s not really how we like to travel. We’d prefer to leave some space for exploring, relaxing, and plenty of coffee and wine.

However, the Verona Card is actually a great deal. Here are the details:

You can get either a 24 Hour Card (20 Euros) or a 48 Hour Card (25 Euros) that cover a range of attractions in Verona (the main sites are included), discounts on other attractions as well as things to do in Verona, like an opera at the Arena, and free use of public transportation for the duration of the life of the card you buy.

It covers the Roman Arena, all four churches in Verona’s Center, the Torre dei Lamberti , the Museo degli Affreschi, and the Roman Amphitheater and Museum. Plus the very, very underwhelming Casa di Giulietta (which you should definitely skip – more on that later).

“But Matt,” you say, “we probably won’t visit all of those places with just one day in Verona, right? So is the card really worth it?”

In the Verona itinerary below, you’ll find the Arena (10 Euros), two of the churches (8 Euros), and the Roman Amphitheatre and Museum (7 Euros). Which adds up to 25 Euros if you were to pay for them all separately. Plus, if you have more than a day, you’ll likely tackle more attractions, and you only need it to cover 5 Euros of entrance fees to pay off on that second day too. 

Plus, free public transportation, which will be useful for getting to and from the train station. 

But that’s another benefit of the card that Alysha and I were discussing over a glass of Veneto wine on our last night in Verona. Usually, when we’re paying for attractions individually, we do a fairly rigorous cost-benefit analysis to decide whether it’s worth doing or not. Which means we usually end up skipping some of the more obscure attractions (usually, churches) because it’s just not worth the extra 5 Euros.

With the Verona Card, it was more of a “well, it’s basically free, so let’s stop by and check it out.” There was no pressure to enjoy everything and read every single sign in each museum because, you know, we paid good money for this. It was a nice, refreshing feeling, and honestly a little freeing.

If you have 2 days in Verona, the card becomes even more valuable, we think. It’s an extra 5 Euros, which most likely pays off if you visit just one more attraction in town using the card. 

You can buy the card in advance here , and then the amount of time starts from first validation (either the first time you ride the bus with it, or the first attraction you visit). Or, pick it up at most of the main attractions, like the Arena or Torre (though that means you’ll have to buy bus tickets to get from the train station, which are 1.30 Euros each).

One Day in Verona: A Complete Guide to What to Do in Verona in a Day

Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s talk about the best things to do in Verona in one day. Because we had the Verona Card , we actually did a lot more of the traditional tourist attractions in Verona than we do in most cities.

Sometimes we’d poke our heads in, look around a bit, and decide “nah, not worth our time.” Other times, like the Roman Amphitheater and Museum or Museo degli Affreschi, we stayed for longer than expected because we enjoyed it more than we thought we would.

First, we’ll lay out the things we think you shouldn’t miss, so you at least have that if you’re short on time and don’t feel like reading the entire itinerary below. Then we’ll get into how to organize them into a perfect Verona itinerary if you only have a day.

The Best Things to Do in Verona: What You Shouldn’t Miss

Here are the four things that we think you shouldn’t miss if you only have 24 hours in Verona. Below, you’ll find our take on how to organize them into an itinerary.

• The Verona Arena : One of the largest Roman theaters in Italy, it’s used for outdoor concerts during the summer. The signage could be better, but there’s always something special about waking into an amphitheater like this one. Don’t miss it when you visit Verona. 
• Two Churches : There are four main churches in Verona, and the two we’d choose to visit again would be the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Matricolare (the one with the big white bell tower) and the Basilica di Santa Anastasia . More on why we like those two best in the guide below.
• Roman Theater Archaeological Museum : This was definitely a “eh, maybe we should stop by and see if we like it?” that turned into an hour-long visit that we really enjoyed. The museum in particular has some really cool artifacts that are millennia old. Plus, amazing views of Verona from the outdoor portion of the museum!
• Castel San Pietro : The castle on the hill (cue the Ed Sheeran song) has the best views of the city, and was particularly spectacular at night. It’s a climb up a long flight of stairs to get there, but it’s worth the effort.

Of course, that’s not all you should do in Verona. There are two picturesque bridges, some great wines to try that you won’t often find outside of the region, and plenty of good food to be had. We have those suggestions below, too.

Before we get into how to organize your time, a word on the worst attraction in Verona, the Casa di Giulietta.

Casa di Giulietta: SKIP IT

The Casa di Giulietta is a great example of something we would ordinarily decide to skip because, well, it’s basically a made up place designed to appeal to tourists.

There’s a balcony that emulates the ones from the various movies and productions of Shakespeare’s famous play (which we learned, he at least partially plagiarized… or got some serious inspiration, anyway) where you can take pictures to post on Instagram, and then there’s a small museum on the inside.

Again, it’s important to remember that this is not actually Juliet’s house, which is a fictional place (arguably inspired by historical events, but mostly made up). It’s a place that Verona created to appeal to tourists with the rising popularity of Romeo and Juliet – which takes place in Verona – in the 19 th Century.

Inside, you’ll find the absolute worst museum we’ve ever seen. Truly, I mean it. There’s a couple of paintings, a few costumes that were used in one of the movies of the play, a bed that was built for filming said movie, and that’s about it.

Skip it. Take our advice, we wasted the 15 minutes of our lives so you don’t have to.

A Perfect Day in Verona: Planning Your Verona Itinerary

Verona is a relatively compact city, which makes it ideal for exploring in a day. You can walk between every destination in the itinerary below, with the exception of getting to and from the train station or airport (which we’ve also covered below).

We’re assuming that you have a full day in Verona, but also recognize that sometimes it’s a situation where you arrive in the afternoon, spend the afternoon, evening, and next morning, and then catch a train to your next destination.

That’s why we’ve broken it up into morning and afternoon/evening, so you can copy and paste based on your specific timing.

We’re also going to assume that you have the Verona Card , because we highly recommend it if you plan on hitting the attractions below.

A Morning in Verona: Coffee and the Verona Arena

Over the course of the morning, start your day with some Italian coffee, then take on the massive Arena di Verona before hitting one of the more underrated museums in the city. 

Ponte Pietra

One of two cool bridges you’ll encounter, Ponte Pietra is a bridge on the eastern side of the center of Verona crossing the Adige River. You’ll basically start and end your day in Verona here, making a big loop that includes most of the best things to do in Verona along the way. 

This bridge was completed around 100 BCE, but has been destroyed and rebuilt a couple of times. Most recently when German troops blew up the bridge to thwart the Allied advance as they retreated from the city in World War 2. 

This was one of the places the host of our apartment had starred on her map of Verona as one of the most beautiful sites in the city, and it’s easy to see why when you first see the arches of the bridge, with the towers of Verona in the background. 

Coffee, Italian Style

Coffee in Italy is very different from anything I’m used to. There’s no specialty coffee to speak of, and there’s actually no Starbucks in Verona (which I appreciate).

Now, you can absolutely walk into just about any café and get decent coffee. But it might be different than you’re used to. One thing I really enjoy about coffee culture in Italy is the routine of going to the same café, getting a shot of espresso and a pastry at the bar, catching up with friends and the barista for a minute or two, and then going about your day.

Order “un caffe, per favore” for a single shot of espresso, which you’ll receive about 42 seconds after you order it (for some reason, it’s ready to go way faster in Italy). Drink it at the bar with a cornetto (a typical breakfast pastry), or grab a cappuccino and linger at a table. If you want something approximating filter coffee, which basically doesn’t exist in most of Italy, get an Americano.

My favorite café in Verona was Nizza Cafe , which is near the river on the west side of the center at Ponte Nuovo ( here it is on Google Maps). They serve coffee from local Verona roaster Garage Coffee Bros , one of the best coffee roasters in Italy. We went twice over the course of our trip to Verona.

Once you’re caffeinated and ready to go, time to start your day in Verona!

Piazza delle Erbe

Take a quick detour from the bridge or cafe to Piazza delle Erbe , which is one of the main squares in Verona and was the center of the city when it was a part of the Roman Empire. 

On your way, pass the Arche Scaligere , an interesting set of tombs added onto the church next door by one of Verona’s noble families, the Scaligers, and Piazza dei Signori , which has a couple of cool arches and a statue of Dante, the father of the modern-day Italian language. 

There’s a whale bone hanging from the arch as you enter Piazza delle Erbe that has baffled historians and nobody can figure out the exact reason it’s there. 

Piazza delle Erbe is a market square, and if you’re there in the morning, you’re likely to see the vendors setting up shop, preparing for a day of tourists. 

The Torre dei Lamberti towers over the square, and you can climb to the top for an impressive view of Verona, but we recommend saving that for if you have more time – we have an equally impressive (and cheaper) view for you later in the day. 

The Arena di Verona

The Arena di Verona is one of the biggest arenas in Italy, after the Colosseum and the arena in Capua (though it is worth noting that there are bigger arenas in other countries that were part of the Roman empire). 

Before researching for our trip to Verona, we had no idea there was a Roman amphitheater in the city. It doesn’t get as much fanfare as, say, the Colosseum, but it’s unique in its own way. In the summer in Verona, it becomes a venue for the Opera Festival in Verona , and open air performances take place in the massive arena. 

We were there in mid-October, and they were breaking down the seating in the arena, which involved lots of forklifts and clanging around and really affected the ambiance. But it’s still an architectural marvel, and has all sorts of history as an opera venue over the years.

There’s some informative signage on the ground level, but we found the historical context provided to be lacking, which was a little disappointing.

Outside the arena is Piazza Bra , which is bustling with people at all hours and is one of the most touristy spots in the city. Definitely plan on eating and drinking elsewhere, or risk getting mediocre food and a big bill. 

Practical Information : Tickets without the Verona Card cost 10 Euros (7.50 Euros reduced for 18-25 EU residents). Buy tickets on arrival at the ticket office at the entrance.

Afternoon: Churches, the Best View in Verona, and Veneto Wine

In the afternoon, check out Verona’s two best churches before doing a scenic walk along the Adige River, ending with one of the best views in town. 

Go Inside Verona’s Two Best Churches

There are four big churches in Verona – all are included with the Verona Card – but we think you shouldn’t spend all of your time running from church to church, so we’ve picked the two that we think you should focus on. 

The first is Cattedrale di Santa Maria Matricolare – also known as the Verona Cathedral. It’s the big one with the white belltower at the northern end of the historical center. While the interior is impressive, as most massive churches in Italian cities are, what makes this church unique is the archaeological area, where you can see the original footprint of the first church built on the site in the 4th Century, and the expansion that happened shortly thereafter. 

The original churches were destroyed in an earthquake in the 1100’s, which is when construction began on this larger version. 

The second church, a short distance to the south, is the Basilica di Santa Anastasia . This one is on this itinerary for two reasons. First, it’s the biggest church in Verona, and the facade is an excellent example of Italian Gothic style (we also heard it called Southern Gothic). Second, the artwork inside is pretty incredible, from the paintings lining the sides, to the 24 terracotta panels in the Pelligrini Chapel depicting the life of Jesus. 

Important Travel Tip : Both churches have a free audio guide that you can access with a QR code, so bring headphones along with you so you can take advantage!

The Castelvecchio Bridge and Walk Along the Adige River

The Castelvecchio Bridge is the second of Verona’s cool bridges, and is worth walking over and admiring. Built out of red bricks, it was built in the 13th Century as an alternate route away from the castle, and was actually the longest bridge in the world (at least, out of those that were recorded) at the time of construction.

Once again, it was destroyed by German troops on the retreat at the end of World War 2, but reconstruction was completed by 1951. 

Walk from Verona over the bridge heading north, then turn right and follow the river to your next stop. It’s a lovely walk, with the Castel San Pietro and the Parrocchia di San Giorgio in Braida immediately in front of you, and the center of Verona across the river to your right.

We actually check out the nearby museum – Museo di Castelvecchio – which has a cool collection of Veronese art that is very vibrant and cartoonish (I don’t mean that in a bad way – I mean it more as an antonym to realism, the art style) when compared to some of the Renaissance art in places like Florence, and some excellent views from the top of the castle walls.

However, with only a day in Verona, we’d save it for next time. If you have 2 days in Verona, like we did, this would be one of the first things we’d add. More on what else to add below.

The Roman Theater Archaeological Museum

The Roman Theater, not to be confused with the Arena (yes, it’s confusing), was an unexpected delight. The Amphitheatre itself was fine – we were jaded having come to Verona from Sicily, land of the spectacular amphitheaters – but we’d recommend it if you haven’t seen a semi-circle theater yet. 

The highlight for us, though, was the museum above the theater. It was one of the places where we said “let’s just pop in and see if we’re into it” and ended up staying for an hour marveling at the detail on the marble statues, or the huge tombstones in the courtyard. 

How many people today have the patience to polish a bronze statue for FIVE YEARS before it’s ready to be unveiled? I’d argue not many, and I certainly don’t. 

There are some great views of the city from the outdoor portion of the museum too, which are worth seeing. Though you’ll get similar (I’d argue better) views from the ascent to the castle, which is your next stop. 

Practical Information : Cost is 4.50 Euros per person without the Verona Card (reduced is 3 Euros). Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm, closed on Mondays. More information here . 

The Best View in Verona from Castel San Pietro

The host at our apartment gave us a crash course in what to do in Verona when we checked in, and number one on her list was going up to Castel San Pietro at sunset or at night. It was a short walk from our apartment on the east side of the Adige River, so it was our first stop in town.

There are two ways to get up there. First is the funicular, which costs 2 Euros per person each way and closes at 8:45 pm. 

The second, more popular way (and the way we did it) is to walk up the long set of stairs. It’s a climb for sure, but there are some incredible views of the city across the river as you go, ending with the grandest views of all from the top, where you’ll find everyone from students to older couples sitting on the benches or the wall admiring the city below.

You don’t actually need to go into the castle – only if you have more than one day – the reason you’re here is the amazing views. 

To get down, simply head back the way you came. If you’re unable to do the walk up the stairs, we’d suggest taking the funicular up and walking down so that you don’t miss those views along the way.

Trying Veneto Wine

Little did we know, Verona is near a wine region called Veneto, which means delicious and cheap wine is right at your fingertips.

It’s not as famous as more well known regions like Tuscany, but that’s also a little bit of a positive because it means the wine is generally going to be cheaper than in places like Florence. You can get some amazing glasses of wine for about 3 Euros, sometimes even cheaper. 

The grape varietals are a little different than we’ve seen elsewhere, so we set out to find a place where we could try some local wines made with grapes we’d never really heard of (we’re not exactly knowledgeable about wine).

We discovered Osteria ai Portegheti through Along Dusty Roads , who are one of our favorite travel blog couples for their great photography, strong point of view on travel, and their practical recommendations for traveling around Italy (and other places). Their voice also comes through their writing loud and clear, which is something I strive for. Definitely go check them out!

Anyway, Osteria ai Portegheti has a whiteboard with a list of local wines to choose from. It was across the river from the center right at Ponte Nuovo (a bridge), which means it was a hop, skip, and a jump away from our apartment in Verona.

I walked in and mistakenly said “buongiorno” at about 7:30pm, which the off-duty bartender/sommelier jokingly gave me a hard time for, and we proceeded to try four different Veneto wines – all whites, because white wine is delicious – and we came away with our favorites. The staff was very helpful in choosing wines (sweet vs. dry, structure vs. light, etc.) which I appreciated.

Your tastes obviously may vary, so here’s a guide to Veneto wines that we read and used to inform our choices. Our favorites were the Durello , which was sparkling, and the Custoza , which was dry and acidic (almost to the point of being sour, which we actually liked). 

More Time in Verona? Here’s What to Add if You Have 2 Days in Verona

If you have 2 days in Verona, we’d mainly focus on spreading out the activities in the itinerary above, though there are a few extra things that we did that we’d suggest adding. Bonus: All of these attractions are also included in the Verona Card.

Museo Castelvecchio

The first is Museo Castelvecchio , which has two things going for it.

First, a great collection of Veronese art, which is much more lively, vibrant, and colorful than some Renaissance art that you’ll see in places like Florence. It’s much less realistic, and much more fun (for lack of a better word).

Second, the views from the castle walls are great, particularly from the backside along the river, where you’ll get a nice view of the bridge from above. 

More information here . 

The Museo Degli Affreschi

A pleasant surprise for us! It’s in the same place as the Tomba di Giulietta (Juliet’s Tomb, another underwhelming spot), but the museum piece is full of pretty incredible well-preserved frescoes.

Including one that includes the papal tiara, which was what Alysha was calling the crown-ish hat that the pope wears without knowing that it is, in fact, called the papal tiara . 

The Torre dei Lamberti

Great views of Verona from the top of the tower, but we think it doesn’t quite make the cut if you have limited time. With a second day, we’d add it. Go early so that you don’t get stuck in a long line of tour bus tourists on a day trip to Verona. 

Where to Stay in Verona

Like we’ve said a couple of times now, Verona’s a pretty small city, so anywhere you stay is going to be plenty convenient for exploring.

We stayed in an amazing apartment – Letters to Juliet – across the river from the center of Verona in the city’s oldest neighborhood called Veronetta. 

The apartment has enough room to accommodate groups from two to six (with a king bed and two separate rooms with twin beds), a full kitchen, a washer AND a dryer, and a magnificent view from the balcony and other windows in the apartment. We loved it, and highly recommend it.

And this is the view from the balcony.

Click here to check prices, read reviews, and see availability for Letters to Juliet.

If you want to stay in the historical center , we’d highly recommend staying either in the northern half of the area, which is far, far less packed to the gills with tourists at all times than the southern part closer to the Arena. It’s quieter and much more romantic, we think, after we did a couple of early morning and evening strolls.

Getting Around Verona

Verona is a very walkable city, and the best way to explore it is to use your own two feet. It’s a series of picturesque alleys with fantastic views around every corner of one of the many towers in Verona. It’s lit by romantic lantern-feeling streetlights in the evening, and we enjoyed strolling the streets before and after the day trippers on big tour buses showed up (usually before 10:00 am or so, and after 7:00 pm).

We actually don’t think you’ll need to use the bus other than getting to and from the train station or airport. Here’s how to do both of those things.

Getting from the Train Station to the City Center

Keep in mind, there are two train stations in Verona: Porta Nuovo (the main train station south of the center) and Porta Vescovo (east of the center).

Getting from the main train station – Porta Nuova – to the city center is a breeze. As you exit the train station, there’s a bus station. You can either buy tickets at the kiosks on the platform (they accept cards or cash), or choose to validate your Verona Card and start the clock on your access to Verona. Multiple buses, including the 11, 12, 13, 30, and 73, all go through the center of Verona.

For 1.30 Euros a person (good for 90 minutes), you’ll be in the center of Verona in 15 minutes or so once you’re on a bus.

You can also take a taxi from the train station to the center if you have a lot of luggage, but we’d recommend the easy bus ride for most people. 

Getting to the center from Verona’s other train station – Porta Vescovo – is less easy. The best way to do it is to walk a bit north to the bus stop at similarly-named Porta Vescovo ( here on Google Maps), where you can take one of many buses to the center (again, it’s the 11, 12, 13, 30, and the 110). It’s a 10 minute walk from the station to the bus stop.

Getting from the Airport to the City Center

The Verona Airlink is an easy way to get from Verona’s airport to the main train station – Porta Nuova. You want Line 199 from the airport. Here is the timetable . It costs 6 Euros, and takes about 15 minutes. 

From the train station, simply follow the instructions above on getting from there to the city center! You can use the same ticket as the Airlink – it is valid for 75 minutes and includes other buses in Verona’s transit system. 

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

A One Day in Verona Itinerary You’ll Want to Steal

Last Updated on 14th May 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my  privacy policy  and  disclosure  for more information.

Fair Verona is the lovers’ city: a veritable paradise for foodies, history buffs, and fans of stunning architecture alike. It’s a place which demands to be savoured, but even if you only have a short time in the city, you’ll soon swoon at its many charms and delights. Here’s how to spend the perfect one day in Verona itinerary .

Introducing Verona

Is one day enough in verona, casa di giulietta, torre dei lamberti, piazza delle erbe, scaliger tombs, verona cathedral, roman arena, museo di castelvecchio, enjoy an aperitivo, map of one day in verona, where to stay in verona.

If you’ve ever read any Shakespeare, then no doubt you’ll know that this is where the famous English playwright set his work about fated lovers, Romeo and Juliet. Now, millions of those in love flock to the Italian city in the Veneto region each year in the hope of experiencing a little of the city’s magic for themselves.

I first fell in love with the city of Verona on a trip to Italy aged just 19. Young and fresh faced, I soon indulged in the delightful pasta in town and fell in love with the cobbled streets that make for a trip to rival a visit to Florence or Rome.

The history of Verona dates back as far as the Romans, though there is no clear record as to what name Verona was actually known as to the Romans. Following the fall of Rome, the city was occupied by the Ostrogoths and the Lombards.

Lying on the banks of the Adige River and surrounded by Cypress tree studded hills, the city is now one of the most romantic places in Italy . If you’re planning to visit Italy, be sure to check out our guide on how to spend two weeks in Italy , the best day trips from Verona , and the best Italy travel tips .

Thanks to its small and compact size, not to mention that the city is one of the most walkable cities in Europe , Verona’s main attractions and highlights can easily be seen over the course of a day.

With this being said, if you want to dive deeper into Verona’s hidden gems and get a feel for the city without the day trippers (i.e. by spending the night) , then you’ll want to plan to spend two or three days in Verona.

Suggested itinerary for one day in Verona

Of course, no itinerary for Verona would be complete without mentioning Juliet’s House and accompanying balcony. This is easily the most popular site to visit in Verona and so I recommend heading here first thing to avoid having to see the spot with too many crowds around.

Juliet’s House is a bit of a misnomer because Shakespeare probably never visited this specific house in Verona and Juliet, of course, never existed. Nevertheless, you can check out the balcony (or go inside for a fee), see the real life postbox for letters to the secretaries to Juliet, and touch the bust of Juliet’s statue for good luck.

If you’re the kind of person who enjoys getting to know a city from above, then you simply must scale the Lamberti Tower, which is situated just a few minutes walk from Juliet’s House. This torre, as it is so-called in Italian, dates back to the latter half of the 12th-century.

With this being said, the tower suffered an extremely damaging lightning strike in 1403 and was only repaired in 1448. The repairs took a staggering 16 years. Today, you can climb the tower for a fee. There is both elevator access and access via staircase to reach the top of the medieval tower. Purchase your ticket here in advance.

You won’t have to go far to get to the Piazza delle Erbe as it’s quite literally just below the Torre dei Lamberti. The city’s main shopping square around which many other locations and attractions in town are focused is that of the main market square.

One of the more morbid curiosities of Verona are the Scaliger Tombs, which find their roots in the Middle Ages and are a group of five Gothic funerary monuments.

They were constructed to honour the Scaliger family, who ruled Verona in the 13th and 14th-centuries. The monuments only cost €1 to see so be sure to have some change on hand!

It wouldn’t be a trip to an Italian city without at least a quick wander around the Duomo. Verona’s Cathedral is as beautiful and imposing as you would imagine. Unlike in some other cities such as Milan, the cathedral is actually free to visit.

Known locally as Catedral de Verona, the ecclesiastical building is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary and was constructed during the 12th-century to replace former churches on site which had been destroyed during an earthquake.

Verona is undoubtedly a foodie city and so you should have no problem finding a delicious meal to indulge in. If visiting during a busy period such as during a school holiday, around Valentine’s Day or in the summer, be sure to reserve ahead of time as the best restaurants fill up fast.

Juliet’s House aside, if there’s one Verona attraction you should make it you mission to visit while in the city, it’s the Roman Arena. This mammoth of a structure is one of the best-preserved Roman arenas surviving from antiquity and so is a must-see for all the history buffs out there.

Situated in Piazza Bra, once upon a time, this Roman amphitheatre would have seated up to 30,000 spectators and was constructed in 30 CE. In ancient times, the Verona arena would have shown ludi (shows and games) that spectators from all over the Roman Empire would have travelled to go and watch.

Today, the amphitheatre has been adapted for modern times and opera concerts and the likes are often held in the space, albeit with a spectator capacity of around 15,000.

Enjoying a concert in the largest open air amphitheatre in the world is a must-have experience in Verona and you can find more details about how to book tickets here .

Verona’s largest square is its best appointed, and the sides of the square are lined with little cafés spilling out into the streets. You can grab a coffee here if you so wish, or perhaps a gelato (a kind of Italian ice cream that is actually made out of whole milk as opposed to cream, which is what ice cream is made out of) if the weather calls for it.

If you still have time after enjoying nearly a full day in Verona, then be sure to head to the Museo di Castelvecchio. The former castle was constructed to serve as a military fortification for the Scaliger dynasty and is now a museum. As well as getting a feel for the castle, you can enjoy several art collections within its fortified walls.

End your day the Italian way by heading to one of the many piazzas in the heart of the town and indulging in an Italian passtime: aperitivo hour . This popular tradition typically sees friends and family gather pre dinner to share a drink, snacks, and simply enjoy a little bit of time together.

Normally you’ll order some sort of aperitif drink (typically an Aperol Spritz) and it usually comes with a small snack such as crisps, nuts, or taralli biscuits. Some of the best places to check out for an Aperitivo in Verona include L’Osteria del Bugiardo, Terrazza Bar al Ponte, and Scapin – Osteria e Cucina.

Thanks to its status as one of the more popular cities to visit in Italy, there’s no shortage of accommodation in and around Verona to suit almost any budget. From budget hostels to luxurious hotel stays, here’s our pick of the best places to stay in Verona based on location and web-reviews.

Budget:  Those in search of a budget place to stay in Verona should check out this hostel which offers  mixed-gender and female-only dorms. Amenities include Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen, and towels and linens.  Check prices and availability here.

Mid-range:  This bed and breakfast offers cosy laid back rooms in a convenient location just a few minutes walk from the city centre.  Check prices and availability here.

Luxury:  If you’re looking for a five-star experience while in Verona, then be sure to check out this luxurious hotel which boasts amenities such as a restaurant onsite and proximity to the historic city centre.  Check prices and availability here.

Enjoyed reading about the best things to do in Verona? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, Paris, pizza, and history, though not necessarily in that order. A fan of all things France related, she runs solosophie.com when she's not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming her weight in sweet food. Currently based in Paris after studies in London, she's spent most of her life living in the beautiful Devonian countryside in South West England!

Similar Posts

Bise Etiquette: Comment faire la bise? Greetings in Europe

How to Spend the Perfect One Day in Avignon Itinerary

A 3 Days in San Francisco Itinerary You’ll Want to Steal

Where to Find the Best View in Florence: 10+ Epic Photo Spots

How to Spend 24 Hours in Paris: 1 Day in Paris Itinerary

How to Spend the Perfect One Day in Bologna Itinerary

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

One Day in Verona: 11 Things To See and Do 

This post is also available in: French

From Juliet’s famous balcony to museums and archeological sites, there is so much to explore in Verona, Italy. Don’t worry if you’re short on time – with this guide of things to do in Verona in one day; you’ll be able to fit in all the highlights and still have time to relax at a local cafe. 

Disclaimer: This post contains an affiliate link. This means that should you click on certain links and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

Table of Contents

What Is So Special About Verona, Italy?

A stop in Verona, in the northeastern part of Italy, is a must while traveling through this incredible country. This lovely medieval town is well known for its many archaeological sites and famous opera. It is even said to be where Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is to have taken place.

It is easy to spend a day in Verona exploring the museums and churches and taking in the culture of this interesting city. I have been to Verona twice, and I would love to go back, so if you find yourself having a day to spend in this beautiful town, here are some things you’ll want to check out:

Is 1 Day in Verona Enough?

Since the city is so walkable and many attractions are close to each other, you can certainly see a lot within a day in Verona. Of course, it’s nice to have 2 or 3 days but if you’re on a whirlwind trip and one day in Verona is all you have, take advantage of it! 

You can easily cross off the major bucket list items, appreciate the architecture, and sample local food and wine in a day in Verona. 

Or you may see just enough of the city to fall in love and want to return!

Where to stay in Verona

If you decide to spend the night in Verona, I recommend the following hotels. Hotel San Luca : Conveniently located in the historical center of Verona, and just steps from the Arena of Verona, friendly staff and an abundant breakfast make this hotel great! Click here for more information and to check the latest prices. Hotel Giulietta e Romeo : Beautiful rooms make this 3-star hotel feel like a 4-star! Its central location in the heart of Verona and easy access to sites and shops make it a fantastic choice. Click here for more information and to check the latest prices. SHG Hotel Verona : Enjoy the peace and quiet outside of the city center with free on-site parking. A 5-minute drive or excellent public transportation makes getting to the heart of Verona a breeze. Click here for more information and to check the latest prices.

What to see in Verona in one day

After visiting Verona a few times myself, here’s what I would choose to do with just one day in the city. 

Be in Awe of the Roman Arena in the Piazza Bra

The Piazza bra is the largest piazza in the country and a perfect place to visit the many cafes and restaurants while strolling under the shade of pine and cedar trees. The great Arena di Verona (aka the Roman Arena) can be found here. This grand amphitheater is where famous gladiators once battled, and hunts of dangerous exotic animals took place.

Though built in the 1st century, it is still commonly used today for many famous operas. This massive, impressive structure is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings of its time and something you won’t want to miss while exploring Verona.

Fall in Love at Juliet’s House

Romantics and William Shakespeare fans worldwide have made pilgrimages to this brick and stone building with ivy-covered walls. The famous balcony where the lovers, Romeo and Juliet, declared their love for one another can be found here. Love is truly in the air in this romantic location, where love letters cover the entrance to the courtyard.

Tip: Head to Juliet’s House as early as possible to avoid the crowds

Enjoy Some Italian Culture in the Piazza delle Erbe

This lively square is surrounded by historical buildings, great restaurants, and bars. It is the perfect site to enjoy a lovely glass of wine and soak in the Italian culture.

Selected Tours in Verona

• Verona Card offers free and skip-the-line entrance to many attractions along with free ATV public transportation.
• Lamberti tower skip the line entry ticket to admire the city from above
• Private Walking Tour of Verona with a local . I always like to explore a new city with a local.
• Amarone wine trail tour with lunch . You will visit two typical wine cellars of the Valpolicella wine region, learn all about the Amarone wine and enjoy a typical lunch of the region.

View Verona From the Top of the Torre dei Lamberti

The tower, Torre dei Lamberti, stands tall on the skyline and cannot be missed while visiting the Piazza delle Erbe. This tower was once a residence of the Lamberti family and was built in 1172. Aristocrats once built these towers to show off their wealth and power; however, the Torre dei Lamberti is the tallest.

Covered with bands of brick and marble with an octagonal bell keep perched on the top, it is a sight to see. The tower is open daily from 8:30 AM-7:30 PM, allowing you to ascend to the top to get an incredible view of the city. You can book your skip-the-line tickets here. 

Visit the Piazza dei Signori

This piazza used to be the centre of power in Verona. Bordering this charming square are buildings that once housed the former government. The Scaligeri family’s seat of power and the court can both be found here.

Admire the Tombs of the Scaligeri Family

The Scaligeri family once lorded over Verona from the 13th to the late 14th century. The tombs these family members can be found outside the small church of Santa Maria Antica behind a wall with iron grilles. Their Gothic-style, intricately stone-carved sarcophagi are a must-see while visiting the town they once ruled over.

Explore the Majestic Duomo di Verona

This complex is a beautiful and elaborate example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The complex is made up of the Chapter Library, the Cloister of the Canons, the Baptistery, the Church St Helena, and the Bishop’s Palace. It is located in one of the oldest parts of the city and is an artistic complex you won’t want to miss.

The Verona cathedral is called the Duomo Cattedrale di Santa Maria Matricolare. It’s located between two bridges on Piazza Vescovado, on the Adige River. Inside, you’ll find stunning wall paintings by Titian that have been preserved since the 16th century. 

See the Grand Basilica di Santa Anastasia 

If you’re not over-admiring the architecture of religious buildings, take a quick 5-minute walk to the Basilica di Santa Anastasia. The 13th-century basilica is home to the famous Pisanello fresco, “St. George and the Princess.” 

Enjoy the View from Castel San Pietro

Thought to be one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the city, this is a must-see location in Verona. This breathtaking viewpoint can be reached by hiking or by car and offers an incredible 180-degree view overlooking the town, river, and bridge.

Go Shopping on Corso Porta Borsari

The Corso Porta Borsari is a sacred road into the Roman city of Verona, although today it is also a famous shopping street. The Porta Borsari, a 3rd-century gate, can be found here along with some marvelous wine bars, gourmet bistros, and cafes.

Sample Verona 1 Day Itinerary

Trying to figure out how to fit in all the things to do in Verona in a day? Here’s a sample itinerary to help you see everything you hope to see in a day.

And note, you don’t have to do EVERYTHING on this list. If you’re a traveler who likes to go-go-go and sees as many things as quickly as possible – go for it. But don’t feel guilty if you decide just to pick a few things and take your time wandering the medieval streets.

8 am – Visit Juliet’s balcony (and try not to say, “wherefore art thou Romeo?”) as you’re transported into the famous love story.

9 am – Spend the next several hours exploring other nearby attractions – Torre dei Lamberti, Piazza dei Signori, Scaligeri Tombs, etc.

Lunch – Find a cute cafe in Piazza delle Erbe

2 pm – Head to the Duomo di Verona and the Basilica

4pm – Visit Castel San Pietro for the view

6 pm – Head back to the center and shop til you drop at Corso Porta Borsari

Take Advantage of the Verona City Card

To maximize your day in Verona, I recommend taking advantage of the Verona City Card .

The card, which you can buy in advance for under $30, allows you to skip the line at the Arena (which is a huge time saver) and provides free entry to many of the museums and attractions, including Casa di Giuletta and Juliet’s Balcony, plus reduced entry fees to a few others.

The city card also gives you free transportation the Urban Line buses within the city. 

If you plan on paying to enter a few of the sites, the city card is definitely worth it!

Click here for more information and buy the Verona City Card.

How to Get Around Verona

Verona, Italy, is a very walkable city, and you can get to pretty much all activities on this list on foot. While there are taxis, most of the activities are in the historic centre which has limited traffic. Instead, you can take advantage of the local buses. 

To maximize your day and not do as much walking, you can join the hop-on-hop-off bus , which starts at the Central Train Station and goes to the historic centre. 

For those who love tours, consider a walking tour that not only takes you to the most popular sites but also explains the history and significance. This historical walking tour is great, and this 3-hour tour takes you to the Arena (with a skip-the-line ticket!), Juliet’s balcony, and more. 

How to Get to Verona

You can get to Verona by bus, car, and plane.

The Valerio Catullo Airport (also known as Villafranca Airport) is just 10 kilometers from Verona. Flights from North America and Europe fly into VRN on a regular basis. There is a shuttle that runs every 20 minutes and takes you straight to the Porta Nuova station in just 15 minutes.

Verona Porta Nuova is the central train station and is just a 15-minute walk from the historic centre of Verona. Note that there is another station in Verona – the Verona Porta Vescovo – which is not within walking distance of any major attractions. You can check the train schedules here . 

While much of Verona is a limited traffic zone, particularly the historic centre, you can still drive to your hotel from other regions in Italy. If you’re not staying at a hotel, you can park at Piazzale Olimpia Parking, though it’s best to get there early to ensure a spot. 

You can also visit Verona on a day tour from nearby cities. This is a great option if you’re pressed for time; though not, you won’t have as much flexibility in your one-day Verona itinerary, as the tour will likely have specified stops (though you may get some free time). 

Day tours are available from Milan , Bergamo , and Venice .  

What’s The Best Time to Visit Verona In One Day?

Verona is a fabulous city to visit year-round. However, the best times are late spring and early autumn, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.

July and August are the hottest, busiest months, and I recommend avoiding them if possible, especially if all you have is one day in Verona. You’ll find that the lines to the attractions are longer, so you may not be able to see everything. (This would be a great time to buy skip-the-line tickets!) 

June to August is the opera season, and you can visit the Verona Arena Opera when they perform in the amphitheater. 

December is also a great time to visit, as you’ll be able to visit the magical Venice Christmas markets!

Verona, Italy, is the perfect city to visit to get your fill of Italian culture. The old roads, elaborate churches, and many piazzas give off the authentic Italian feel you’re looking for while traveling through this rich country. If you find yourself traveling through the northeast part of Italy, it is a must to spend a day in Verona.

Sharing is caring!

1 thought on “One Day in Verona: 11 Things To See and Do ”

Extremely good suggestions. If I may add, I would suggest to take a stroll in the Giardino Giusti. The palace itself is interesting, but the gardens are the real gem there.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

One Day in Verona, Italy: The Ultimate 24-Hour Itinerary

From the first cobbled step I took in Verona , I was spellbound. This city, with its melange of love tales , architectural wonders, and tantalizing bites, etched a special place in my heart. My days exploring its alleyways , coupled with detours to the serene Lake Garda , have inspired this guide. Drawing from firsthand insights and tips, I’ve crafted a 24-hour itinerary to help you make the most of one day in Verona.

Now, if you’re reading this, you’re likely pressed for time, wanting to extract the essence of Verona within the constraints of a day. Believe me, 24 hours, if planned right, with the appropriate city pass, staying at a centrally located hotel , can let you delve deep into this Italian marvel.

Verona, with its intimate charm and rich tapestry of history, strikes a perfect balance between scale and grandeur. It’s a comfortably walkable city, neither overwhelmingly large nor confiningly small. This compact layout makes it an ideal destination for a whirlwind visit, allowing you to meander through its storied streets, discovering its hidden gems without feeling rushed or lost. In essence, Verona offers the best of both worlds: the vibrancy of a city and the intimacy of a town, making every step of your journey an experience in itself.

Embark on this 24-hour Veronese adventure, not just as a checklist of sites but as a day brimming with potential stories. Verona will linger in your thoughts, beckoning a return.

Timeless Travel Steps is supported by our readers. If you purchase through an affiliate link on my site, at no cost to you, I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. Please read our Disclosure for further information.

TOP PICKS FOR VERONA

For the best experience of Verona, consider these tips:

STAY at Due Torri Hotel , overlooking the historic centre and enjoy breakfast over sunrise or dinner over sunset from its large roof terrace.

BOOK Food Walking Tour : Eat your way through Verona, taste their famous wines and see the city’s highlights with a local guide; An all-round experience in one 3.5-hour tour.

See More! Go to the Dolomites or Sirmione + Lake Garda for a day and be completely awestruck by the scenic views. Transportation is provided so, just sit back, relax, and enjoy. After all, you’re on vacation.

Download the VERONA CITY PASS for free local transport, including entry to the Arena, Lamberti Tower and museums

What to See in Verona in One Day: An Overview of 24-hour Itinerary in the Italian Medieval City

If you’re wondering what to see in Verona in one day, this itinerary has it all laid out for you. In one day, you can see the city’s landmarks, historic sites, Roman bridges, San Pietro Hill, renowned as the perfect place for best views of the city, and off-beat gems such as ‘whale-bone’ also. Here is a general overview:

In this one day in Verona itinerary, your journey commences with a 9 AM start, ideally from the bustling Porta Nuova station. Here’s my first tip: arm yourself with the Verona Card . Not only does it provide free transportation from Porta Nuova and around the city, but it also grants access to many of Verona’s iconic landmarks, like the Arena, Juliet’s House and Castelvecchio. It’s a gamechanger, especially when time is of the essence.

During your sojourn, you’ll encounter ancient arenas, romantic balconies, and riverside promenades. To ensure you maximize your time, I can’t emphasize enough the value of pre-booking ‘skip-the-line’ tickets. Having used them myself, they often meant more time soaking in the ambiance rather than waiting in queues.

Staying central was another decision I cherish from my time in Verona. The city unfurls differently when you’re nestled in its heart, with every landmark a short stroll away. This guide, inspired by my journey, is tailored for those who choose a centrally-located base.

Amidst this whirlwind exploration, let’s not forget the magic of serendipity . A surprise street performer, an unplanned café stop, or a gelato’s cooling embrace on a sunlit piazza — these spontaneous moments often become the most treasured memories.

Verona, Italy

Verona, Italy, a city deeply rooted in history and romance, has been a coveted travel destination for centuries. From the moment you step off the train at the Porta Nuova Station, or perhaps even fly into the Valerio Catullo Airport, you’re thrust into a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with architectural splendour and age-old tales.

Begin your one day journey in Verona in the heart of the city at Piazza Bra , where the Roman Arena stands as a testament to Verona’s ancient roots. This arena isn’t just a relic of the past; it’s a living monument, often echoing with the melodies of the Verona Arena Opera.

As you continue, the cobblestone paths might lead you to Juliet’s house, where you’ll undoubtedly ponder, “Art thou Romeo?” A love story for the ages , this is one of the many tales that make Verona iconic.

Wander over to Piazza delle Erbe , a bustling square where you can soak in the local atmosphere and marvel at landmarks like the Palazzo della Ragione and the Arco della Costa. Adjacent to it is the Piazza dei Signori, overlooked by the towering Torre dei Lamberti and the historic Santa Maria Antica.

For those armed with a handy Verona card , you’ll find tips pointing to the 14th-century Bridge of San Pietro, offering panoramic views of the River Adige.

While some might be on a day trip from nearby Venice, a stay in a central hotel allows more time to explore and delve deeper into Verona’s allure.

Whether it’s the magnificent Santa Maria Matricolare (Verona Cathedral) or the scenic vistas from the hill of San Pietro, this beautiful city promises a plethora of things to see and experiences to cherish.

Your Verona itinerary for one day might be fleeting, but the memories and the love for this city will undoubtedly last a lifetime.

Here’s How You Might Spend One Day in Verona, Italy: Itinerary Overview

Arrival in Verona Morning:

• Porta Nuova Station: Beginning Your Adventure.
• Drop your bags off at your hotel in a central location.
• Verona Arena: Ancient Roman Legacy.
• Piazza Bra: The City’s Living Room.
• Juliet’s House: Echoes of a Timeless Love Story.
• Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, Verona’s Romanesque Marvel.

Mid-Day-Early Afternoon:

• Strolling to Piazza delle Erbe: Heartbeat of Verona.
• Palazzo della Ragione & Torre dei Lamberti: A Historical Climb.
• Arco della Costa: The Legend and the View.
• Piazza dei Signori: Verona’s Aristocratic Square.
• Santa Maria Antica: A Church Steeped in History.
• Verona Cathedral.

Late Afternoon-Early Evening:

• A Stroll along the Adige River and Castelvecchio + Castelvecchio Bridge.
• Ponte Pietra & River Adige: Picturesque Moments.
• San Pietro Hill: Sunset.

Evening-Night:

• Return to Hotel
• Dinner at a Traditional Osteria.

Optional: Verona Arena Opera Experience in the summer.

Night (post dinner):

• Strolling through the city.
• Explore Local Wine Bars & Nightcaps.

Overnight Stay: At a Central Hotel

Next Morning:

• If you stay at the Due Torii Hotel , you can enjoy a fabulous breakfast at its furnished roof terrace and watch the sun rise over the Arena + city.
• Breakfast in Piazza Bra: Savouring Espresso and Fresh Pastries at a Traditional Café: Start your second day in Verona with an authentic breakfast experience, setting the tone for a relaxed morning before departure.

VERONA CARD

Immerse yourself in the ambiance of the city of Verona that inspired the timeless tale of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ at your own pace with the flexibility of the 24-hour (€20.00) or 48-hour (€25.00) Verona Card.

With the Verona Card, you get Free use of the ATV Transport system within Verona city. The Card offers Free Entry to 15 top attractions including Verona Arena, Lamberti Tower, Juliet’s Balcony, Castlevecchio and San Zeno.

Three Quick Tips for Your One-Day Verona Itinerary:

Comfort is Key: Verona’s charming streets are paved with cobblestones. Ensure you wear comfortable shoes to make the most of your exploration without any discomfort.

Stay Hydrated: Verona can be quite warm, especially during the summer months. Always have a bottle of water on hand to keep yourself refreshed throughout the day.

Beware of Tourist Traps: While the allure of Romeo and Juliet’s tale is enticing, be cautious of overpriced souvenirs and eateries, particularly around the main tourist sites.

The Ultimate 24-Hour Itinerary in Verona

Morning arrival in verona, porto nuovo station (9:00 am – 9:30 am).

Starting at 9:00 AM at Porta Nuova Station, your 24-hour exploration of Verona begins. One of the main gateways to the city, this bustling station serves as the central hub for all transportation , seamlessly connecting Verona to its surrounding regions and beyond.

After a swift trip via ATV with your Verona Card, or taxi to your hotel to drop off bags, make your way to Piazza Bra, the vibrant heart of the city. From this central square, you’ll commence your splendid day, diving deep into Verona’s grand Roman legacy and timeless Shakespearean tales.

Verona Arena: Ancient Roman Legacy

9:45 AM – 10:45 AM

If you are located in the centre of the city , a short walk leads you to one of Italy’s grandest Roman arenas. The Verona Arena, with its imposing stone arches, is a testament to the architectural marvels of ancient Rome. As you stand in this amphitheater, imagine the roaring crowds from millennia past, captivated by gladiatorial combats or, in more recent times, the melodious strains of operas during the famed Verona Arena Opera festival.

Visiting the Verona Arena requires a ticket. You can purchase a stand alone ticket which includes priority entrance (recommended) or purchase the city pass which includes skip-the-line access to the Arena.

PRO TIP: The Arena stands as the city’s most frequented attraction. While tour groups typically begin to pour in around 10 AM, arriving slightly earlier offers a quieter experience. So, aim to visit first thing in the morning to enjoy those initial moments of tranquility before the crowds.

READ: Verona Arena: A Helpful Guide into History + Little Known Facts of a Medieval Marvel

Piazza Bra: The City’s Living Room

10:45 AM – 11:15 AM

Adjacent to the Verona Arena is Piazza Bra, often described as Verona’s living room. Lined with vibrant cafes and punctuated by the serene presence of the Palazzo della Gran Guardia, this piazza is where both locals and visitors congregate. It’s a perfect spot to indulge in an Italian espresso, absorb the city vibes, and maybe catch sight of an impromptu street performance.

READ: Piazza Bra: Discover 10 Must-Do Activities, Mostly Free.

Porta Borsari:

Porta Borsari is situated at the end of Corso Porta Borsari, which leads directly into the city center. If you’re walking from Piazza Bra (where the Arena is) towards Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta) or continuing on to San Zeno, you’d very likely pass by or near Porta Borsari.

This striking entrance is one of the ancient gateways to Verona, built in the 1st century BC and gives a glimpse into the city’s Roman history. Given its location, it’s a sightseeing spot in your walking itinerary. Even if it’s just a brief pause to admire its architecture and significance, it’s worth acknowledging as you pass by.

Juliet’s House: Echoes of a Timeless Love Story

11:30 AM – 12:15 PM

From Piazza Bra, wander through Verona’s alleyways to Juliet’s House, a testament to the undying love story penned by Shakespeare.

Stroll through Via Mazzini, Verona’s main shopping street, filled with boutiques, cafes, and stores. It’s a good place to get a feel for the city’s vibe and maybe pick up a souvenir or two.

At Juliet’s House, the famous balcony beckons, symbolizing the romantic rendezvous of Juliet and her Romeo. While the tale is fictional, the sentiments it evokes are genuine. Many travellers pen love notes or promises on the walls, hoping for a bit of that Veronese romantic magic.

PRO TIP: For Verona Card holders, admission to Juliet House is Free. However, you need to book a time slot for your visit.

READ: Romeo and Juliet in Fair Verona.

Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore: Verona’s Romanesque Marvel

12:30 – 1:00 PM

To cap off the morning, head west to the Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore. Renowned as one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Italy, this basilica’s stunning façade, intricate bronze doors, and the tranquility of its cloisters showcase Verona’s ecclesiastical legacy. The interiors, adorned with masterful artworks, narrate tales from both Christian scriptures and local legends.

These destinations promise a morning steeped in history, romance, and the vibrant culture that makes Verona a must-visit on any Italian travel itinerary.

Mid-Day and Early Afternoon in Verona

Strolling to piazza delle erbe and lunch.

1:00 PM – 2:15 PM

After the tranquility of San Zeno, meander through Verona’s charming cobblestone streets, a beautiful journey that gradually unfolds the city’s character.

As you stroll, the bustling Piazza delle Erbe, the city’s historic market square, welcomes you. This square, a vital part of any one day in Verona itinerary, is an ideal spot for a relaxing quick lunch. Sample the local flavours, and let the ambiance of the square wash over you.

PRO TIP: The Italians have lunch between 1 PM and 2:30 PM but restaurants do cater for their tourists customers and serve lunch from 12:30 PM.

• Piazza delle Erbe, Verona: An Unmissable Bustling Historic Market Square
• The Best 19 Veronese Traditional Dishes You Must Try When Visiting this City;
• Verona Wine: A Helpful Guide to 11 Fine Garda Wines + Food Pairings;
• You might also like: 3 Best Food Tours in Verona.

Palazzo della Ragione & Torre dei Lamberti: A Historical Climb

2:20 PM – 2:55 PM

Re-energized from your lunch at Piazza delle Erbe, make your way to Palazzo della Ragione. This grand edifice is an emblem of Verona’s civic pride.

Then, for a truly unparalleled view of the city, climb the adjacent Torre dei Lamberti. As you ascend, the sprawling panorama of Verona unfolds, with terracotta rooftops stretching out towards the horizon, a sight that exemplifies the city’s “24-hour in Verona” charm.

READ: The Lamberti Tower, Verona: A Storied History and Vista Point.

Arco della Costa: The Legend and the View

3:00 pm – 3:20 pm

A stone’s throw away, you’ll come across the mysterious Arco della Costa, a gateway holding a curious whale rib. Legends swirl around this oddity, making it a point of intrigue on any what to see and do in Verona’s list. It’s also a great vantage point to admire the city’s bustle and architectural blend.

Piazza dei Signori: Verona’s Aristocratic Square

3:25 PM – 3:40 pm

Concluding this leg of your journey, the aristocratic Piazza dei Signori awaits. Enclosed by historic buildings and marked by statues, this square is a veritable trip back in time. Every stone and facade here speaks of Verona’s storied past. It’s a serene oasis, perfect for reflecting on the myriad impressions that this one day in Verona itinerary offers. Take a moment to sit, perhaps near Dante’s statue, and imagine the lively discussions and events that once graced this space.

Santa Maria Antica: A Church Steeped in History

3:45 PM – 4:05 PM

Tucked amidst Verona’s architectural marvels, the Santa Maria Antica stands as a quiet testament to the city’s spiritual history. Its elegant carvings are a testament to the craftsmanship of yesteryears.

As you step inside, the gentle play of light through the stained glass paints a story of faith and artistry. The church’s intimate size and ancient ambiance make it a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle.

How far is Piazza dei Signori to Santa Maria Antica?:

Piazza dei Signori and Santa Maria Antica are very close to each other, located in the historic heart of Verona.

The distance is only a few minutes on foot, approximately 100-150 meters or so, depending on the exact starting and ending points within the piazza and the church area. It’s a very short and scenic walk amidst the historic buildings of Verona.

Verona Cathedral (Duomo di Verona): Architectural Splendour

4:10 PM – 4:50 PM

A stone’s throw from Santa Maria Antica, the Verona Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Matricolare, stands as a monumental highlight on any one day in Verona itinerary. As you step inside, you’ll be enveloped by its rich blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements.

The cathedral’s intricate facade, combined with its breathtaking interior artworks, serves as a testament to Verona’s storied past and the city’s deep-rooted religious and artistic traditions. Exploring its grandeur and absorbing its historical tales is a must-do experience that adds depth to your 24-hour Verona journey.

How far is Santa Maria Antica from Verona Cathedral?

The walk from Santa Maria Antica to Verona Cathedral (Duomo di Verona) is very short. The two landmarks are located quite close to each other in Verona’s historic center.

It would typically take less than 5 minutes to walk between them, via Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, covering a distance of roughly 200-300 meters. The proximity of these sites makes it easy to move from one to the other during a day of exploration in Verona.

Late Afternoon and Early Evening of Your One Day in Verona Itinerary

Stroll along the adige river + castelvecchio & castelvecchio bridge: medieval fortress & views.

5:00 PM – 5:45 PM

After absorbing the architectural grandeur of Verona Cathedral, head towards Castelvecchio. A brief, scenic walk of about 8-10 minutes will lead you to this medieval fortress, standing as a testament to Verona’s turbulent past.

If you prefer not to walk, consider hopping onto the local ATV buses. With your Verona Card in hand, you can easily access these buses for a comfortable ride between the city’s attractions.

Castelvecchio, with its crenelated walls and robust towers, offers a glimpse into the city’s defensive history. Don’t miss crossing the adjoining Castelvecchio Bridge, offering panoramic views of the River Adige and the cityscape.

Although your visit is brief due to closing times (usually at 6:00 pm), the fortress and its surroundings offer rich insights into Verona’s medieval era, making it a key stop in your 24-hour itinerary.

Following your historical immersion at Castelvecchio, trace your steps to the iconic Ponte Pietra, Verona’s testament to resilience. Castelvecchio and Ponte Pietra are about a 15-minute walk apart, depending on your pace.

The distance is roughly 1.2 kilometers or 0.75 miles. The route takes you through some of Verona’s scenic areas and along the River Adige, making it a pleasant stroll, especially if the weather is good.

For those seeking a more relaxed journey, the ATV bus, accessible with your 24 hour Verona Card , provides a convenient alternative to this picturesque destination.

Early Evening of Your 24-Hour in Verona

Ponte pietra and san pietro hill.

5:45 PM – 6:45 PM

Ponte Pietra, often referred to as the “Stone Bridge,” stands as one of Verona’s most iconic landmarks. This historic bridge spans the River Adige and, despite the damages it endured during World War II, was meticulously restored using its original stones.

As the golden hour approaches, Ponte Pietra radiates with warmth, its age-old stones bathed in a mellow luminescence. This moment offers breathtaking panoramic views of Verona, framed by undulating hills and the distant embrace of the Adige Valley. The River Adige’s serene reflection of the historic bridge presents an idyllic snapshot, capturing the spirit of a one-day Verona journey.

When visiting Ponte Pietra, here are a few things to do and appreciate:

Historical Appreciation: Ponte Pietra dates back to Roman times, having been constructed in the 1st century B.C. Several of its arches have been rebuilt over the centuries due to war damage, yet the bridge remains an enduring symbol of Verona’s layered history.

Photography: The bridge offers fantastic views of the River Adige and the surrounding city, making it a favourite spot for photographers. Sunset and sunrise are particularly magical times to capture its beauty.

Riverside Stroll: Adjacent to the bridge are pathways along the River Adige. It’s a calm spot to enjoy a leisurely walk, taking in the river’s reflections and the city’s historic backdrop.

Contemplation: Given its history and setting, the bridge is also a wonderful place to pause, reflect, and simply soak in the ambiance of Verona.

In essence, while Ponte Pietra might be a simple bridge, its historical context and stunning surroundings make it a must-visit when exploring the city.

San Pietro Hill

If you cross the bridge heading north, you’ll reach the base of San Pietro Hill. A steep climb or a funicular ride will take you up to the Roman Theatre and Archaeological Museum, where you get panoramic views of Verona.

San Pietro Hill, or “Colle San Pietro”, is one of Verona’s most iconic spots and offers a myriad of reasons why it’s so special:

Panoramic Views: The hill provides a vantage point for some of the most panoramic views of Verona. From here, visitors can see the River Adige winding its way through the city, the famous red rooftops, and several prominent landmarks.

Historical Significance: Atop the hill sits the Roman Theatre, an ancient structure that dates back to the 1st century BC. This theatre is a testament to Verona’s rich history and its Roman past.

Castel San Pietro: Though the original medieval castle was destroyed, the current structure still stands tall and is a reminder of the city’s strategic importance throughout history. The castle’s terraces and grounds are perfect for leisurely strolls.

Peaceful Escape: While Verona bustles with activity, San Pietro Hill offers a quieter, more serene environment. The hill and its surroundings are ideal for those looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle for a moment of tranquility.

Nature’s Cradle: Apart from historical structures, the hill is also dotted with greenery. It’s a spot where nature and history converge, offering visitors a unique experience.

In essence, San Pietro Hill encapsulates what Verona is all about: a harmonious blend of history, beauty, and nature. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to truly understand the heart and soul of Verona.

PRO TIP: Near Ponte Pietra, you’ll find several restaurants and cafes with terraces overlooking the river, ideal for a meal or drink with a scenic view.

Passeggiata

As you stand at Ponte Pietra, watching the sunset bathe the city in its golden embrace, you’ll notice locals and tourists alike partaking in the time-honored tradition of the ‘passeggiata.’ This leisurely evening stroll is not just a way to enjoy the beauty of Verona but a reflection of the Italian way of life.

Passeggiata is an opportunity to socialize, see and be seen, and immerse oneself in the rhythm and soul of the city. After soaking in the sunset views, why not join in? Meander along Verona’s ancient streets and become a part of this living tradition before heading to dinner.

READ: La Passeggiata in Italy: The Italian Cultural Tradition of Evening Strolls.

The Golden Hour from Atop San Pietro Hill

I’ve crafted this itinerary so that you find yourself atop San Pietro Hill during the golden hour, arguably the most enchanting time in Verona. My intent was for you to pause here and savour the twilight before the evening unfolds.

The tranquility of the hill, far removed from the city’s bustling core, offers a moment for introspection. As the sun gently casts its golden glow over Verona, it offers a poetic interlude in a day steeped in historical allure. This spot is among my most cherished places to truly soak in Verona’s magic.

Before delving into a delightful dinner and embarking on an evening stroll, take a moment to cherish the tranquility atop San Pietro Hill.

6:45 PM to 8:15 PM

After the enchanting sunset views from San Pietro Hill, head back to your hotel to freshen up and rejuvenate. With recharged spirits, step out into the evening and treat yourself to an authentic meal at a traditional Osteria.

PRO TIP: Consider a central stay in a boutique hotel or bed and breakfast to fully immerse yourself in Veronese charm. Popular areas to consider are the city center or near Piazza Brà. The Due Torii and the Indigo Hotel are excellent choices.

READ: Places to Stay in Verona: Top 7 Hotels for a Perfect Trip.

8:30 PM – 10:00 PM

Following dinner, indulge in a leisurely stroll through the city, witnessing Verona’s landmarks illuminated against the night sky. If the allure of performing arts beckons, consider capping off your night with the mesmerizing Verona Arena Opera Experience.

For an evening to remember, experience the city’s gastronomic heart at a cozy osteria, relish the acclaimed Amarone wine that Verona proudly offers, or elevate your evening with a sumptuous meal at the esteemed Maffei restaurant.

Here are three iconic dishes from Verona that you might consider trying for dinner, including the renowned risotto from Maffei:

• Risotto all’Amarone: A creamy risotto made using Amarone wine, which imparts a rich, distinctive flavour. The version at Maffei is especially sought after by both locals and visitors.
• Bigoli con l’anatra: A thick, coarse spaghetti-like pasta called bigoli, traditionally served with a rich duck sauce.
• Pastissada de Caval: A slow-cooked horse meat stew, seasoned with spices, red wine, and tenderized over hours to create a dish full of depth and flavour.

Pair these dishes with a glass of local Valpolicella or Soave wine, and you’ll have an authentic Veronese dining experience!

Here are some dining spots that encapsulate the true flavours of Verona:

Maffei Restaurant: Located in the heart of Piazza delle Erbe, this historic restaurant offers a blend of traditional and contemporary Italian dishes. Housed in a palace with elegant frescoes and a stunning terrace view, it’s an experience in itself.

Address: Piazza Erbe, 38, 37121 Verona VR, Italy

Osteria Del Bugiardo: A cozy spot offering classic Veronese dishes, accompanied by a wide selection of local wines. The rustic interiors and warm ambiance make it a favourite among locals and tourists alike.

Address: Corso Porta Borsari, 17/A, 37121 Verona VR, Italy

Antica Bottega del Vino: Renowned for its impressive wine list and rich culinary history, this establishment has been serving traditional Veronese dishes for centuries. It’s the perfect place to get a taste of Verona’s gastronomic heritage.

Address: Vicolo Scudo di Francia, 3, 37121 Verona VR, Italy

Both “Osteria Del Bugiardo” and “Antica Bottega del Vino” are located in Verona’s historic city center and is relatively close to Piazza delle Erbe, making it easily accessible for those exploring the heart of Verona.

PRO TIP: Italians traditionally dine between 8:30 PM and 10:30 PM. Yet, catering to the preferences of travellers, many restaurants start serving dinner as early as 7:00 PM.

After dinner, wander through Verona’s softly lit streets. The city’s evening glow adds a touch of magic, making your stroll feel like a leisurely journey through a nighttime fairy tale.

READ: A Comprehensive Helpful Guide to the Best 19 Traditional Veronese Dishes Which You Need To Know Before You Go.

Post-Dinner: Explore Local Wine Bars and Nightcaps

10:00 PM –

It is also a great time to wander into a local wine bar and immerse yourself in Verona’s rich vinicultural heritage. After all, Verona sits proudly in Italy’s Veneto wine region, home to the acclaimed Valpolicella wines. Treating yourself to a glass (or two) isn’t just about enjoying a drink — it’s about immersing in Verona’s rich wine culture.🍷

READ: Verona Wine: A Helpful Guide to 11 Fine Garda Wines + Food Pairings

Next Morning

Breakfast in piazza bra.

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM

Start your day in the heart of the city at Piazza Bra as the finale to your one day in Verona itinerary. As the city slowly awakens, treat yourself to a freshly brewed espresso and indulge in delicious pastries at one of the traditional cafés lining the square. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a tranquil morning, observing locals and tourists alike, before departing this enchanting city.

Alternatively, if you stay at the Due Torii Hotel , you can enjoy a delicious breakfast at its furnished roof terrace and watch the sun rise over the Arena.

Explore Deeper

Discover more of this charming city with these curated articles. Explore tales of colourful houses, age-old myths, cobbled pathways, and captivating romantic legends to ensure you capture every nuance of the city on your one day journey in Verona, adding depth to your itinerary.

Is Verona Worth Visiting?: 31 Absolute Things to Do Confirm It Is!

11 Best Day Trips from Verona: Car, Bus, Train, + Tour Options

Verona and Lake Garda: The Most Complete Itinerary for 3 or 4 Days

Getting Around Verona: Guide to Public Transport and Best Ways to Explore.

The Ultimate Guide to Verona City, Italy: Your Essential Pre-Trip Resource.

Places to Stay in Verona: 7 Nice Hotels for a Perfect Trip.

Food in Verona: Best 19 Traditional Veronese Dishes You Must Try.

Piazza delle Erbe, Verona: An Unmissable Bustling Historic Market Square.

Palazzo Maffei, Verona + Ristorante Maffei: A Baroque Brilliance & Culinary Haven.

Mazzanti Houses, Verona: A Frescoed Renaissance Gem in Piazza Delle Erbe.

The Lamberti Tower, Verona: A Storied History and Vista Point.

The Majestic Gran Guardia Palace, Verona.

Piazza Bra, Verona: Discover 10 Must-Do Activities, Mostly Free!

Verona Arena, Verona: A Helpful Guide into History + Little Known Facts of a Medieval Marvel.

Romeo and Juliet in Fair Verona, Italy.

People Also Ask

Here are some popular questions about a one-day itinerary in Verona that people have asked:

Is one day enough to see Verona?

While Verona has a lot to offer and you could spend several days exploring, a well-planned one-day itinerary can cover many of the city’s main highlights.

Where should I start my day in Verona?

Piazza Bra and the Verona Arena are popular starting points, being central and iconic spots in the city.

What’s the best way to get around Verona in one day?

Verona is a compact city, making it ideal for walking. However, there’s also a reliable bus system, and the Verona Card offers unlimited rides.

Where should I eat in Verona?

Consider dining at a traditional osteria for an authentic experience. Places like Maffei Restaurant or Osteria Del Bugiardo come highly recommended.

Is the Verona Card worth it for a one-day visit?

If you plan to visit multiple historical sites and museums, the Verona Card can offer significant savings and convenience.

Are reservations needed for popular attractions or restaurants?

For some popular spots and upscale restaurants such as Ristorante Maffei, making a reservation in advance is a good idea, especially during peak tourist seasons.

When is the best time to visit Juliet’s balcony?

To avoid large crowds, consider visiting Juliet’s House early in the morning, before 11:00 AM (before tour groups arrive) or later in the afternoon from 4:30 PM onwards (when tour groups have left).

Is there a specific walking route to follow for efficiency?

While there’s no strict route, starting from Piazza Bra and working your way through the city’s landmarks in a sequence can save time.

Are there any local events or festivals I should be aware of?

Depending on the time of year, Verona hosts events like the Verona Opera Festival. It’s always good to check local calendars in advance.

Where’s the best spot to end my day in Verona?

San Pietro Hill is a fantastic place to conclude the sightseeing portion of your day, offering breathtaking sunset views of the city.

And finally….

This UNESCO World Heritage gem serves as the romantic canvas for Romeo and Juliet’s legendary love story. Beyond its literary allure, Verona radiates with rich history, captivating art, delicious gastronomy, and soul-stirring opera. This is a city where elegance meets tradition, promising memories that linger long after you leave.

Important Tips for Your Verona Trip

Here are the seven important tips for you when exploring Verona: Book Accommodation in Advance : Verona is a popular destination, so it’s advisable to book your accommodation well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. This ensures you have a comfortable place to stay that suits your budget and preferences. Consider Peak Seasons: Be mindful of peak tourist seasons, such as summer and major holidays, when Verona can get crowded. If possible, plan your visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) to enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Join Guided Walking Tours: To make the most of your Verona experience, consider joining guided walking tours. Knowledgeable guides can provide historical insights and take you to hidden gems you might miss on your own. READ: The BEST 9 Charming Walking Tours in Verona and choose the one for you. Explore Surrounding Areas: While in Verona, take advantage of its strategic location to explore nearby attractions like Venice or Lake Garda . Day trips to these destinations can enhance your Italian adventure. Verona Card : Consider getting a Verona Card, which offers free or discounted entry to many of the city’s museums and attractions such as the Verona Arena and Lamberti Tower . It can save you money and provide convenient access to Verona’s cultural heritage. Verona Card includes free public transport which means you save on €€! Go to the largest theme park in Italy , a stone’s throw from Verona for a fun day for all the family. Ensure you have the correct plugs, and adapters. Take some Euro currency along and figure out a suitable eSim mobile data roaming for Verona . By following these tips, you can ensure a more enjoyable and memorable visit to Verona while making the most of your time and resources.

As a deliberate escapist & a mindful wanderer…

As a deliberate escapist and a mindful wanderer, I’ve designed this one day in Verona itinerary to give you a true taste of what this charming city has to offer. From its historic landmarks to its charming streets, there’s so much to see and experience. I hope this guide helps you make the most of your day in Verona, and leaves you with memories you’ll cherish for a long time.

Venturing beyond Verona? Let your wanderlust guide you to enchanting destinations like Barcelona, Bordeaux , Budapest , and London . Experience the serene landscapes of Inverness, the allure of Lake Como, the vibrancy of Milan, the spiritual aura of Montserrat , and the charm of Seville . Explore further on my Europe page for more inspiration, and be sure to check my dedicated pages for the UK , Japan , and North America to broaden your horizons.

Happy and Safe Travels Always, Wherever Travel Takes You, xx

Introducing Georgina, the insightful Content Creator behind Timeless Travel Steps. A champion of off-season journeys and cultural immersion for the mature traveller, Georgina has explored 4 continents and over 30 countries. Her blog offers practical tips and personal insights into responsible, comfort-oriented travel along with slow travel destinations. Accompanied by classical, country, and jazz tunes, Georgina's solo adventures and time with her adult children, A & M, enrich her unique travel narrative. Join her for inspiring, immersive global explorations.

Similar Posts

Mazzanti Houses, Verona: A Frescoed Renaissance Gem in Piazza delle Erbe

Verona City Guide: Your 2024 Essential Pre-Trip Resource

Top 9 Must-Take Walking Tours in Verona (2024) for Every Traveller

11 Best Day Trips from Verona [2024]: Car, Bus, Train, + Tour Options

The Majestic Gran Guardia Palace, Verona

One Day In Verona Itinerary, 24 Hours In The City Of Romance

Fair Verona is simply alluring, a captivating city of history and culture set on the Adige River and nestled against a backdrop of cypress covered hills. I’ve fallen for the city hard on each visit.

Verona was made famous by Shakespeare’s plays  Romeo and Juliet  and  The Two Men of Verona . The city’s identity is linked to the tragic romantic tale of the star crossed couple.

Verona is sometimes called the “little Rome.” It’s full of red and peach colored Medieval and Renaissance buildings, Roman ruins, and stunning churches.

But there is more than one love story to encounter in Verona. Aside from the stunning monuments, you can happily feast on exquisite meals in inventive new eateries, taste velvety wine at quaint bars, or shop in small boutiques hidden away in side streets.

It’s hard to imagine anyone not falling in love with Verona. (Insert heart eye emoji.) Shakespeare , who never visited in real life, missed a charmer.

Here’s a snapshot glance of what you can see with this one day in Verona itinerary:

• Roman Arena
• Piazza delle Erbe
• Lamberti Tower
• Piazza dei Signori
• Verona Cathedral
• Juliet’s House
• Basilica of San Zeno
• Scaliger Bridge
• Scaliger Castle
• San Pietro Castle

A Short History of Verona

Verona has been around for over 2,000 years.

The Romans founded Verona in the 1st century B.C. In the 5th century, after the fall of Rome, Verona was ruled by the Ostrogoths and the Lombards.

Because of its intersection along major medieval routes, Verona was a prized possession for many kingdom’s looking to expand their territories.

Over the centuries, the city became part of the regimes of Theodoric the Great, Charlemagne, Emperor Maximilian I, and even Napoleon.

In the 13th and 14th centuries, it flourished under rule of the Scaliger (Scaligeri) family. The vicious feuds between the dominant families in this period were the real life basis for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet .

In 1405, Verona fell to the Venetian army. From the 15th to 18th centuries, it was part of the Republic of Venice.

READ : Nutshell History of Venice

In 1866, Verona joined the Kingdom of Italy. During World War II, Verona was bombed 30 times. Many of its buildings were destroyed or damaged, but they were painstakingly restored.

In 2000, Verona was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage site list for its well preserved monuments from antiquity through the Renaissance.

One Day In Verona Itinerary

Here is my itinerary to help you have the most efficient 1 day in Verona. It covers all of the top attractions and best things to do in Verona in a day. I also give you tips on where to eat, where to stay, transportation, tours, and tickets.

As with all of my suggested itineraries, I recommend that you use this Verona itinerary as a guide. You can tailor it to suit your individual interests, needs, and pace of travel. 

If you have extra time in Verona, you can easily turn this 1 day itinerary into a 2 day itinerary by moving at a slower pace.

If you need a caffeine injection to begin your day in Verona, head to Caffe Borsari for coffee and pastries.

>>> Click here to book a guided walking tour of Verona

1. Piazza Bra

Your first point of call on your one day in Verona itinerary is Verona’s largest square, Piazza Bra. If you’re visiting Verona by train, it’s about a 15 minute walk from the train station.

You enter the grand square through the Portoni della Bra, an ancient Roman gate. The gate has a pentagonal tower with Romanesque arches.

The square is home to Verona Arena, an ancient Roman Amphitheater dating from 1st century A.D. It’s the most visited attraction in the city.

You’ll also find Gran Guardia Palace, the Lapidary Inscriptions Museum, and the Barberini Palace. The latter serves as Verona’s Town Hall.

With only one day in Verona, I’d admire the beautiful facades and move on.

But if you are a fan of Etruscan and Greco-Roman artifacts, you should pop into the museum. It’s one of the oldest in Europe. From the top floor, you’ll have a bird’s eye view of the piazza.

2. Roman Arena

The doughty Roman Arena, the Arena di Verona, is Verona’s top tourist magnet. It’s located in the Piazza Bra. If you’re visiting in high season, you should pre-book a skip the line ticket .

It’s the third largest classical arena in Italy, after  Rome’s Colosseum  and Capua’s Colosseum. And one of Italy’s best preserved Roman monuments. Click  here  to book a skip the line ticket and tour. 

Built in A.D. 30, the open air amphitheater first served as a stage for brutal gladiatorial games, jousts, circuses, and tournaments. It originally seated 30,000 people. 

The arena is made of pink and white stone from Valpolicella. It originally had 3 tiers of arches, but only 2 tiers survived.

After an earthquake destroyed part of the arena, it was left as a mere attraction. But in the second half of the 19th century, it was reinvented as an opera venue seating over 20,000.

Instead of gory gladiator fights, you can watch lavish opera performances. The acoustics are wonderful, benefitting the arena’s elliptical shape. 

Verona’s opera tradition dates to 1913. Today, half a million people flock to Verona in the summer for its three month long Opera Season.

If you are planning to attend an opera, line up early for the show. There will be a line around the block for entry.

Address : Piazza Bra, 1

3. Piazza dell Erbe

From Piazza Bra, head down the pedestrian-only Via Mazzini to Piazza delle Erbe. It’s Verona’s most picturesque square with breathtaking and well preserved architecture.

The piazza lies above what was formerly the Roman Forum. Today, it serves as the setting for Verona’s daily market.

The piazza is like a treasure chest from the medieval era. It’s home to the Torre dei Lamberti (which you can climb), the Madonna Fountain, Palazzo Maffei, the and the painted Mazzanti houses.

The 14th century Madonna fountain was built with marble from the ancient Roman Forum and thermal baths. The Roman statue of the Madonna is much older than the fountain, dating from 380.

Palazzo Maffei is a beautiful three story Baroque building. At the top of the facade are a row of statues of Greek gods.

The palace houses a small museum and, on its ground floor, a Michelin starred restaurant. In front of it stands a column with the Lion of St. Mark, a symbol of Venice .

The Mazzanti house is a group of Renaissance homes. It has a beautiful frescoed facade created by Alberto Cavalli. He was a pupil of Giulio Romano. Romano had just worked on the frescos at Te Palace in Mantua and brought his bold designs here.

Frescoed facades were all the rage in 16th and 17th century Verona, but few survive today. Some crumbled away; others were detached and placed in museums. The one on the piazza is the best preserved example.

Piazza Erbe also has plenty of good restaurants. If you want to plonk down, try Caffe Filippini or Osteria Verona.

4. Torre dei Lamberti

The 800 year old Tower dei Lamberti is popularly known as the Tower of Love. At 275 feet high, it’s the tallest building in Verona.

The Lamberti family began construction of the tower in 1172. Like the towers in San Gimignano , it was intended to show off the family’s wealth and power.

The tower has two bells, Marnagona (smaller bell) and Rengo (larger bell). Nowadays, the bells are only rung for funerals. It also has an 18th century clock.

For great views of Verona, you can hoof it up 368 steps to the tower’s viewing terrace. You can also take an elevator.

It’s open from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm daily. It’s one of the best things to do with one day in Verona.

Click here to book a skip the line ticket for the tower.

Address : Via della Costa, 1

5. Piazza dei Signori

From Piazza delle Erbe, pass under the Arco della Costa to reach the Piazza dei Signori. It’s a quieter and more somber square that seems almost like a courtyard.

In the center is a large marble statue of the poet Dante, installed in 1863. He lived in Verona as a guest of the Scaliger family when he was exiled from Florence for his political beliefs.

The square is also home to the 13th century Scaligeri Palace. It’s a 15th century masterpiece of Venetian architecture.

Opposite that building is the red and white striped Palazzo della Ragione. It’s a 12th century Romanesque palace with a stunning gothic staircase and a small museum of modern art.

The 15th century Loggia dei Consiglia is next to the town hall. It’s a beautiful arched loggia adorned with bas relief sculptures and pictorial decorations.

6. Scaliger Tombs

Just off Piazza dei Signoria are the Scaliger tombs, enclosed in a wrought iron grilled fence. These ornate Gothic tombs are worth a quick look. They contain the tombs of the three most important Scaligeri.

Cangrande I was the founder of the Scaliger dynasty, a nobleman and warlord known for his military conquests of Vicenza, Padua, and Treviso. To cement his legacy, he decided to build himself a stunning funerary monument.

On his death, his body was encased in a marble tomb topped with an equestrian statue of himself. The original is now inside a museum.

Tombs of his heirs are there as well. The most richly decorated tomb belongs to Cansignorio, the last of the Scaligeri to rule Verona.

Address : Via S. Maria Antica, 4

When hunger calls, break for lunch. You should probably avoid the touristy restaurants in Piazza Bra, though I’ve enjoyed a perfectly good pizza there before.

Some options are Trattoria Tre Marchetti near the Roman Arena, Caffe Dante Bistro in the Piazza dei Signori, or La Taverna di Via Stella near Piazza Eebe.

For a wonderful salumi and prosciutto plate, head to Trattoria Pane e Vino . Pizza lovers should head to Sapore DownTown for inventive pizzas.

If you need a post lunch gelato, head to Gelateria Ponte Pietra.

8. Verona Cathedral

After lunch, continue your one day in Verona with a leisurely stroll along the Adige River and visit the 12th century Verona Cathedral complex.

It’s a magnificent red and white striped cathedral. It’s Romanesque on the lower part and becomes more Gothic as it ascends. The church includes a cloister, the Bishop’s House, a museum, and a 17th century library.

The cathedral’s interior is from the 15th century. The nave is quite beautiful, with high vaults supported by massive red columns. The first chapel on the left holds an  Assumption  by Titian.

At the end of the central nave is a particularly striking, unusual architectural element. It’s a semi-circular space enclosed with columns, designed by Michele Sammicheli in 1534.

The high altar is surrounded with late Renaissance frescos by Giulio Romano, a student of Raphael .

The small 12th century cloisters are also well worth a peek. It’s home to the Canonical Museum.

Address : Piazza Duomo, 21

9. Juliet’s House

Your next stop is Juliet’s House , Casa de Giulietta, which is a 10 minute walk from the cathedral. It’s one of Verona’s most famous addresses.

Verona is awash in the legend of Romeo and Juliet, the ill fated lovers. It’s identify is so bound up with Shakespeare’s tale that the city has identified Juliet’s House, Romeo’s House, Juliet’s grave, and even turns out Juliet branded candy kisses.

Juliet’s House is the most popular pilgrimage site. The casa is a gorgeous 14th Gothic building in Verona. It was restored and the balcony added in 1936-40.

But, like the fictional love story, Juliet’s House is itself a fiction. It wasn’t really owned by the Capulets.

It’s a rather Disneyfied place intended to bring Shakespeare’s play to life. If you don’t like tourist traps or are short on time with only one day in Verona, you may want to skip this attraction.

If, on the other hand, you are in love with love or Shakespeare, you may want to stop by (or take a self guided Romeo & Juliet audio tour ). My daughter demanded a visit, wanting to stand on the balcony and belt out “Wherefore art thou Romeo?” So, I acquiesced.

If you don’t need to declare your true love in public, you can still see the balcony without paying the 6 euro entry fee.

There’s not much inside the museum itself. You’ll find some faded period costumes and furnishings from the 1936 movie Romeo and Juliet .

A bronze statue of Juliet by Nero Constantini stands in the courtyard. Legend holds that you’ll be lucky in love if you touch her right breast. Juliet’s Wall, at the entrance, is covered with notes, scribbles, and love letters.

If you have a tale of Shakespearean-style mistreatment to relate, you can drop a letter in the mailbox to get advice. You’ll get a response from the Juliet Club scribes.

Each year, there’s a prize for the Most Beautiful Love Letter. Naturally, the winner gets a trip to Verona.

Address : Via Cappello, 23

10. Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore

The Basilica of San Zeno is one of the finest Romanesque churches in Italy. It’s the loveliest one in Verona and a must see with one day in Verona.

It’s set between two medieval bell towers. Building began in the 12th century, but the church wasn’t completed until the late 14th century.

The ivory-pink hued church has a 12th century portal. Its bronze doors have 48 panels depicting tales from the life of San Zeno, Verona’s patron saint. The Gothic rose window is dubbed the “Wheel of Fortune.”

Inside, you’ll find Andrea Mantegna’s famous triptych the  Madonna and Saints  over the main altar. San Zeno is buried in the crypt, and a peaceful cloister lies off the left nave. 

Romantics will want to know that the church’s crypt is where Romeo and Juliet secretly married in Shakespeare’s play.

Piazza San Zeno is the setting for many celebrations and festivals in Verona, such as San Zeno Day and the Verona Carnival.

Address : Piazza San Zeno, 2

11. Scaliger Bridge

It’s time to cross one of Verona’s romantic bridges, the Scaliger Bridge, also known as the Ponte di Castelvecchio.

The bridge is an audacious example of medieval architecture. Congrande Scaliger ordered construction and it was built in 1354-56.

It’s made of marble and red brick. In style, the bridge matches the adjoining castle. It’s 3 arches are joined by mini towers.

The bridge is almost 500 feet across. It was originally built as a defensive fortification. But today it’s a bridge for pedestrians and cyclists.

Address : Corso Castelvecchio, 2

12. Scaliger Castle | Castelvecchio

Castelvecchio is a 14th century fortress. It’s an eye catching crenellated, russet brick building with massive walls, towers, turrets, and a vast courtyard.

Like the bridge, it has swallow tailed battlements atop its walls that almost look like horns. The castle presides over a street lined with attractive old buildings and palaces of the nobility.

An earthquake almost completely destroyed the castle in 1117. Only the 10th century Round Tower survived.

In 1285, the Lords of Verona, called the Scaligeri, rebuilt and fortified the castle to better defend their borders. The rest of the castle was constructed in the 14th century.

Inside, there’s a small civic museum, the  Museo di Castelvecchio . It gives you a good look at the castle’s vaulted halls.

You can admire detached frescos, jewels, and sculptures. There are paintings by some of Verona’s greatest artists — Veronese, Mantegna, Titian, Tintoretto, and Tiepolo.

13. San Pietro Castle

At sunset, end your one day in Verona with a calorie-burning climb of 100,000 steps to the viewing platform at Piazzale Castel San Pietro. Legend holds that this is where the city was founded.

The castle is just over the Ponte Pietra on a hill crowned by cypresses. There’s also a funicular to get you there.

The castle is now in ruins and isn’t open to the public. But it’s worth the climb if you can’t resist a good view. The stairs start from the Roman Theater.

San Pietro offer up the best views of Verona, and it’s particularly spectacular at sunset. You can admire the candy colored houses and beautiful architecture of the city.

Not surprisingly, in a city that exudes romance, this is a popular spot for wedding proposals and wedding photos.

14. Dinner in Verona

If you’re staying for dinner on your one day in Verona, I have some restaurant recommendations.

Romantics, or anyone with an eye for a view, will want to book a meal at the Osteria Ponte Pietra , a cozy restaurant with two outdoor terraces near the Ponte Pietra. For almost the same view, but a simpler menu, try the adjacent Terrazza al Ponte .

Since you ended your day at the San Pietro Castle, there’s also a good restaurant there with a terrace for al fresco dining and views called Teodorico Re .

Other good options for dinner in Verona are:

• Ristorante Il Desco (2 Michelin stars in a patrician mansion)
• Ristorante 12 Apostoli (Michelin star with contemporary and vegetarian cuisine)
• Antico Bottega del Vino (traditional Italian with excellent wine list)
• Locanda 4 Cuochi (modern Italian)
• Alcova Del Frate (chef knows his wine)

Before or after dinner, you might consider going on a moonlight walking tour , another romantic thing to do in the city of romance.

More Than One Day In Verona?

If you have more than 1 day in Verona, there are some other attractions in Verona you should check out.

1. Roman Theater

Just off the river is the Roman Theater . The theater and its archaeological museum will appeal to architecture and history buffs. You can appreciate one of the best-preserved Roman monuments in northern Italy.

There are treasures like mosaic floor fragments from the 3rd century, Etruscan bronzes, and Roman sculptures.

From the top, there’s a great photo op of Verona’s most famous landmarks and beautiful houses.

Address : Via Regaste Redentore, 2

2. Verona’s Churches

Verona is packed with churches from different periods. Right behind the Roman Theater, you’ll find the 10th century Church of Santi Siro and Libera.

Sant’Anastasia is known for its fine Italian Gothic architecture. The facade has 12 grand arches in the city’s signature red marble.

Santa Maria in Organo houses what the Florentine artist and art historian Giorgio Vasari called the finest choir stall in Italy.

San Giorgio in Braida is right on the banks of the Adige River and is a must see. It has a towering dome, beautiful interior decor, and art works by Tintoretto and other artists. The most famous piece is the Martyrdom of St. George above the altar.

3. Verona’s Green Spaces

With more than one day in Verona, you can relax in some of the city’s pretty green spaces.

South Adige Park is referred to as the “green lung” of Verona. It stretches from Ca del Bue to Porto San Pancrazio.

North Adige Park is located close to the historic center in the Corte Molon district.

Giusti Palace has one of the most beautiful gardens in northern Italy. You can admire a Neo-Classical Palace and a 16th century Neo-Classical garden.

Tips For Visiting Verona

Here are some must know tips for day tripping to Verona or spending one day in Verona.

1. How To Get To Verona

Verona is located in the Veneto region of Italy. Verona is the perfect mid way stop between Venice and Milan. It’s the perfect day trip from either city.

Verona is 1:10 minutes on the high speed train from Venice or 1:20 from Milan.

Venice’s Santa Lucia train station is near the foot of the Grand Canal, just behind the Ferrovia vaporetto platform. Milan’s Central train station is located in Piazza Duca d’Aosta, which you can get to on the M3 metro line.

There are also direct connections to Verona from Rome, Padua, and Bologna.

You’ll arrive at Verona’s Porta Nuova Station. You can pick up a map at the station’s tourist office. It’s a 15 minute walk from the train station to Piazza Bra.

Verona is served by Catullo Airport. Direct connections are possible from many European cities.

From the airport, you can take a bus that connects to the train station, which then takes you to Verona’s city center. You can also hop in a taxi or book a private transfer .

You can aldodrive to Verona. But the historic center is a no auto zone except for residents. So you’ll need to park in a lot on the outskirts of the city.

In high season, you should arrive early lot to ensure you get a spot. The biggest (and free) parking lot is Piazzale Olimpia Parking, which is not far from the Roman Arena.

By Guided Tour :

If you’re staying somewhere else in Italy, you can visit Verona on a guided day trip from Milan , a day tour from Bergamo , and (of course) on a day tour from Venice .

2. How To Get Around Verona

Verona has a compact historic center. You can get everywhere on foot and see all the main attractions in one day.

Verona is also a bike friendly city. You can rent bikes in Verona, go on a guided bike tour , or take the hop on hop off bus .

Apart from these options, your only alternative is the city’s bus network. Buses run throughout the city and can help save time if you’re traveling longer distances.

Tickets are sold at bus stations, as well as newsagents and tobacconists. They are also included in the Verona Card, which I discuss next.

3. Verona Card

I’m not usually a fan of city cards. But the Verona Card is a pretty good deal, if you’re spending 24 hours in Verona.

It gives you one free skip the line entry to Verona’s major attractions: the Roman Arena, all four churches in Verona’s center, the Torre dei Lamberti , the Museo degli Affreschi, and the Roman Theater. 

Plus, you get free public transportation.

Click here to book the card online in advance. You can also buy the card at the tourist offices.

4. Guided Tours Of Verona

I often find it helpful to book a walking tour of a city, especially if I haven’t visited before. And you have some good options.

You can check out a 2 hour small group guided walking tour , a 3 hour walking tour , or a 3.5 hour food and wine tour . My first time in Verona, I took this 4 hour private tour and enjoyed it.

Naturally, you can also take a Romeo and Juliet themed tour .

5. Where To Stay In Verona

Verona makes an ideal base for touring northern Italy and it’s less expensive than Venice. If you’d like to stay overnight or more than one day in Verona, there are plenty of great (and romantic) hotels you can check out.

Palazzo Victoria is a luxury boutique hotel right near Piazza Bra and Via Mazzini. Hotel Milano & Spa is a modern luxe hotel with a rooftop bar and restaurant.

Hotel Aurora is near Juliet’s House and has a terrace for breakfast with breathtaking views. The ARK Hotel is a 4 star hotel near the historic center.

Another great option is  Due Torri Hotel , a modern luxury hotel with a vintage feel. The  Grand Hotel Des Arts  is a beautiful understated hotel also near the Piazza Bra.

Just outside the city hidden away in the hills is the romantic Delser Manor House Hotel . Over time, the hotel was transformed from a monastery to a Palladian villa, to an elegant luxury hotel perfect for couples.

Byblos Art Hotel is another luxury hotel just outside the city housed in a splendid Renaissance villa. It has a unique design that marries Italian Baroque style with contemporary art.  

6. When To Visit Verona

I don’t advise spending one day in Verona in high season, which is July and August. The Verona Arena Opera season draw in big crowds.

You’ll find dreadfully hot weather, long lines of tourists, and overpriced accommodations. If you love world class opera, however, you may want to brave it.

I last visited Verona in June and it was quite lovely and not overcrowded. But I would think May, September, and October are better months to visit.

Visiting Verona in winter isn’t the best time either. There are vastly fewer crowds. But, since you’re in northern Italy, the weather can be rainy and cold.

7. Shopping in Verona

Would you like to do some shopping during your one day in Verona?

Verona’s main shopping street is Via Mazzini. It’s a pedestrian only street lined with high end shops. It’s been dubbed the “golden shopping mile of Verona.”

You’ll find well known designer brands. But Verona is also loaded with smaller specialty shops on hidden lanes.

You can get your Romeo and Juliet kisses (baci chocolate) at De Rossi on Corso Portal Borsari. Another good chocolate shop is Art & Chocolate .

Stop in at Vivavino Wine Shop or Signorvino to get your Amarone or Valpolicella wine.

If you’re a bookworm, Il Gelso is full of good books, handmade stationery, and other curios. If you want to pick up some unique children’s toys, head to Citta del Sole .

If you like perfume, Carlotta’s Perfumery is one of the most beautiful perfumeries in Italy, with high end cult brands.

8. Festivals And Events In Verona

Verona’s most famous festival its is open air opera season, the Arena di Verona Opera Festival . The Roman Arena where gladiators once fought is transformed into a venue for operas like Madame Butterfly , Carmen , and Aida .

Then, there’s the annual Carnival of Verona , which dates from 1615. There’s a lavish nighttime parade where sweets and candies are tossed into the crowd. Masked participants float through the street.

Because Verona is the city of romance, it also hosts the Sentimental Film Festival , which focuses only on romantic films. The Verona Film Festival follows with feature films from all over the world.

Verona is also a huge wine center. Each year, in late March to early April, Verona hosts one of the world’s most prestigious wine expos,  Vinitaly . Wine lovers flock to Verona for 5 days of wine tasting.

9. Places To Visit Near Verona

Do you have more than one day in Verona?

There are plenty of other places to visit near Verona, either as a day trip or combined visit. Here are a few attractions that are less than an hour from Verona.

Valpolicella Wineries

Verona’s vineyards, once renowned for churning out basic pizzeria swill, are now producing some of the country’s finest reds.

Valpolicella is a blend of native Veronese grape — Corvina, Corvione, Rondinella, and Molinara. Many different varieties are produced. But the biggest star is the velvety Amarone wine.

The vineyards of the Valpolicella region begin just outside Verona. To the west toward Lake Garda, you’ll find traditional wines. To the east, more modern winemakers are making their mark. 

Some wineries to visit include Le Bignele, Tezza, Massimago, and Masi Tenuta Canova. You can even book an Amarone wine tasting tour from Verona or an Amarone e-bike tour .

Vicenza is a 40 minute drive from Verona. You can also take the train, which takes a mere 25 minutes.

Vicenza is a city for architecture lovers. It was the crucible of Andrea Palladio, a renowned architect who produced graceful Renaissance buildings that look like Greek temples. The city is known as the “Pearl of the Renaissance,” the “Gold City,” and the “City of Palladio.”

In 1994, the entire historic center of Vicenza became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The designation was intended to preserve Palladio’s palaces, basilicas, and villas, which are the top attractions in Vicenza .

But Vicenza isn’t exclusively for architecture buffs. The city is lovely in and of itself.

Vicenza is one of  Italy’s most beautiful towns . Vicenza’s streets are a dense jumble of creamy pastel buildings, small canals, quaint churches, and cobbled alleys. To get the full scoop, book a guided walking tour .

Madonna della Corona Sanctuary

Madonna della Corona is a beautiful salmon colored church carved into Mount Abado above the valley of the River Adige. It looks like it’s suspended in mid air.

The church has been a place of peace, prayer, and pilgrimage for over 1,000 years. And it’s only about 50 minutes from Verona.

In 1982, the church was classified as a minor basilica. In 1988, Pope John Paul II paid a visit to the church.

Today, pilgrims and tourists alike come for the stunning views, art and sculptures inside, and to see the replica of the Holy Stairs (Scala Sancta).

Roman Catholic tradition holds that these are the 28 white marble stairs that Jesus climbed on his way to face trial before Pontius Pilate. They’re reputed to be stained with drops of Jesus’ blood. The originals are in Rome .

You can visit the sanctuary by hiking up, taking a shuttle bus from the village of Spiazi, or visiting on a guided tour from Lake Garda .

The Renaissance town of Mantua is also just 35 minutes from Verona by car or 45 minutes by train.

Mantua is a beautiful small town with big art. With its beauty and rich heritage of Renaissance treasures, Mantua is surely one of  Europe’s best kept secrets .

Mantua is known locally as a “sleeping beauty” that hasn’t changed since the Middle Ages. Aldous Huxley called it “the most romantic city in the world,” making it pair well with Verona.

In Mantua, you should visit the Ducal Palace, Te Palace, and the Basilica of Sant’Andrea. In the Ducal Palace, you’ll find Andrea Mantegna’s UNESCO-listed Camera degli Sposi .

Here’s my guide to the best things to do in Mantua . You can also visit Mantua on a guided day tour from Verona .

I hope you’ve enjoyed my one day in Verona itinerary. You may enjoy these other Italy travel guides and resources:

• Historic Landmarks in Italy
• Most Beautiful Towns in Italy
• 101+ Epic Experiences To Have in Italy
• 11 Ways To Spend 1 Week In Italy
• 10 Day Itinerary for Italy
• 10 Day Itinerary for Tuscany
• 3 Day Itinerary for Rome
• 3 Day Itinerary for Florence
• 2 Days in Venice Itinerary
• 1 Day in Milan
• One Week in Umbria Itinerary

If you want to spend 1 day in Verona, pin it for later.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Last Updated on November 9, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

20 Best Things to Do in Verona, Italy in One Day – The Ultimate Itinerary with Photos and Tips

By Author Rossi Thomson

Posted on Last updated: 4th September 2022

Categories Day Trips in Italy , Lists , Veneto , Verona

Verona is a city of history, opera, and love that needs to be on the bucket list of every traveller seeking to experience the beauty of Italy in the most authentic way.

Located in the northeast of the country, verona is a great day trip from venice, milan, and lago di garda – italy’s largest lake..

There are many things to do in Verona, Italy in a day. It is a multilayered city with Roman roots, medieval buildings, frescoed houses, churches full of priceless works of art, and a very lively historic centre where people get together in the evenings to socialise over a glass of aperitivo or two.

Add to this Verona’s two major magnets, too:

• the worldwide famous Verona Opera Festival ; and
• the story of Romeo and Juliet .

Music and love – two of the main things which make Verona such an irresistible place to discover for yourself. 

So, if you are planning to visit Verona, Italy for a day, here are the 20 best things to do and see in this Northern Italian city from dawn till dusk.

These 20 points of interest include both Verona’s major sights and several hidden gems. They are listed not according to their importance but in a logical sequence in terms of distance from one another and convenient order of visit.

This way, if you visit them all one after the other exactly as they are numbered below, you will complete a full circle encompassing Verona’s historical centre, River Adige and the Veronetta neighbourhood.  This full circle will help you see and explore Verona’s many faces – from its Roman ruins, medieval structures and frescoed houses to its devotional traditions and modern-day shopping streets and fun sights.

If you are a quick sightseer and an avid walker, you can cover it all in one long day. Otherwise, you can pick and choose from the long list below and tailor your day just as you like it.

In any case, further below, I have provided three sample itineraries, namely:

• In-depth Verona;
• Verona’s Highlights’ and
• Verona’s Top Five,

thus giving you a chance to discover Verona, Italy in the best possible way for you.

No matter which itinerary you will choose, make sure that you wear your most comfortable shoes. Verona is a very walkable city and with the main sights within close proximity of one another, exploring them will keep you on your feet for most (if not all) of the day.

At the end of this blog post, I have also included a helpful section with useful tips about Verona, Italy. From how to get to Verona to what are the best events to attend there, lots of first-hand tried and tested information is provided. 

I, personally, love Verona. I find it a very exciting place to be. It’s a city full of verve. A millennial place that feels very young at heart. It’s a city of beauty with tall frescoed houses, graceful bridges, and lively events. A pleasure to explore!

So, without further ado, let’s head to fair Verona and see what you can get up to there in one long and very exciting day!

20 best things to do in verona, italy in one day, 1. portoni della bra.

Portoni della Bra is an elegant double archway with a crenellated top and a blue 19th-century clock studded in its central part.

The archway is the entry point to the historic part of the city of Verona, Italy. It’s an 18-minute walk or a 7-minute bus ride from the city’s main train station – Verona Porta Nuova. If you have arrived by car, near Portoni della Bra you will find many conveniently located and modern car parks.

As soon as you reach Portoni della Bra, you know that you are in for a day of wonderful discoveries and views. You cannot help it but have a little moment of ‘Wow!’ when you glimpse the twin arches. They beautifully frame the colourful houses that line Piazza Bra (see point 2 below). Plus, the Roman Arena di Verona (see point 3 below) is just a minute down the road. 

A gate existed at this place in Verona as early as the 13th century. The current structure of the Portoni della Bra is built of red Verona marble while the crenellations on top are made of red bricks. The archway as we see it nowadays was erected in the 16th century during the Venetian rule of Verona. The pentagonal tower attached to its side dates back to the Middle Ages when Verona functioned as a free comune.

2. Piazza Bra

Lined with colourful houses, bustling restaurants, and imposing buildings, Piazza Bra is the largest square in Verona and one of the largest in Italy, too. It encompasses the imposing Arena di Verona (see point 3 below) – the Roman amphitheatre which is older than Rome’s Coliseum and where the world-famous Verona Opera Festival  takes place every summer.

Piazza Bra is a great spot to simply stop, take in Verona’s atmosphere and snap lots of photos of the wonderful architecture all around you.

In the middle of Piazza Bra, there is a small green garden with a fountain surrounded by cedar and pine trees. In summer, when it gets really hot, lots of tourists seek refuge from the sun in this little green oasis. Known as the Fountain of the Alps, the garden’s water feature was given to the city of Verona in 1975 by the German city of Munich. The occasion was the twinning of both cities.

Apart from Arena di Verona, there are two other large buildings of interest on Piazza Bra in Verona, Italy:

• Palazzo della Gran Guardia (also known simply as Gran Guardia) –  this is the imposing building right opposite the Arena. Built between the 17th and the 19th centuries, nowadays the palazzo hosts many important cultural events and art exhibitions. 
• Palazzo Barbieri – a yellow building with a neoclassical facade that nowadays serves as Verona’s Town Hall. It was built in the first half of the 19th century.

3. Arena di Verona

A beautifully preserved Roman amphitheatre which grabs the eye with its symmetry. If you have just an hour to spend in Verona, then make this hour count by dedicating it to Arena di Verona.

If you have a whole day in the city of opera and love, then, again, make Arena di Verona the highlight of your exploration of Verona. You will marvel how people could erect almost two millennia ago such an enormous and yet so elegant and airy structure without any modern-day technology. 

Built in the 1st century AD (it pre-dates Rome’s Coliseum by a bit less than 50 years), Arena di Verona was used for gladiator games and could accommodate up to 30,000 people. An ingenious system was used to divert water from the nearby river Adige in order to flood the lower part of the amphitheatre and stage naval battles there. This type of entertainment and the buildings in which it could be held were known collectively as naumachia in Ancient Rome.

A devastating earthquake in 1117 destroyed almost entirely the outer ring of Arena di Verona. Only a small portion of it remained upright and it survives to this day. It’s curious to note that a medieval legend tried to explain the ‘unfinished’ shape of the Roman amphitheatre.

According to the legend, a man from Verona made a pact with the Devil. The Devil was to build in one night a huge theatre able to fit all the city’s inhabitants in exchange for the man’s soul. All the demons of hell worked all night erecting the amphitheatre.

In the meantime, the man regretted bitterly the pact and prayed to the Virgin Mary for salvation. Miraculously, the dawn broke an hour early that day and the demons – who had just started on the outer ring of the Arena – had to return to hell. Thus the Devil couldn’t complete his part of the deal. The man’s soul was saved and Verona got its amphitheatre, albeit ‘unfinished’.

Nowadays, Arena di Verona is one of the main tourist attractions in Northern Italy. It is also regularly used as a concert and opera venue. The worldwide famous Verona Opera Festival is staged in the Arena every summer. Concerts by the biggest names in music take place there, too. Attending a concert or an opera in Arena di Verona is an unforgettable experience. 

If you can’t make it to an event there, then, get yourself a ticket to see the Arena from the inside. There is something magical sitting on its stone steps and admiring the stunning views of Verona from the Arena’s top tiers.

4. Via Mazzini

A beautiful street flanked by tall colourful residential buildings with wrought-iron balconies and arched windows. Via Mazzini connects two of Verona’s most important squares – Piazza Bra (see point 2 above) and Piazza delle Erbe (see point 5) below. 

Nowadays, the street is lined with shops of the most famous fashion, jewellery, and cosmetics brands – from Dolce&Gabbana to Swarovski. In the past, the first portion of the street used to be a Roman decumanus – an east-west oriented road in Ancient Rome. The second portion of the street was created with the demolition in the 14th century of several palaces.

Walking down Via Mazzini can be quite the experience. The tall buildings on both sides create a sort of tunnel around you. In summer and in the run-up to Christmas, crowds of tourists and shoppers fill up every available space. Elegantly dressed citizens of Verona walk around with their tiny dogs. The sea of people quickly closes around you and drags you forward. To take a little breather from the crowd, don’t hesitate to step into a quiet side street for a moment or two.

5. Piazza delle Erbe

Piazza delle Erbe – Verona’s charming central public space – is the city’s most ancient square. It stands right where Verona’s Roman Forum once stood. The piazza is surrounded by beautiful historical buildings and serves as the stage of a daily market selling souvenirs, clothes, and knick-knacks.

A lively market has been held at Piazza delle Erbe since Roman times. During the Middle Ages, spices (in Italian erbe ) were some of the most sought-after goods and soon the square became known as Piazza delle Erbe in recognition of the large number of spice merchants selling their wares on it.

Piazza delle Erbe is a lively place where many of Verona’s main streets converge and where the flow of people is constant from dawn till dusk. Up and down the square you will find many bars and restaurants. Grab a gelato during the day or an aperitivo in the early evening and indulge in a spot of people-watching.

Otherwise, here are some of the most important sights to see and photograph at and around Piazza delle Erbe in Verona:

• Palazzo Maffei – a baroque palace with lavishly ornamented facade. Look up to see the statues of the Ancient Greek gods which adorn its rooftop.
• St. Mark’s Lion – a sculpture symbolising the Republic of Venice which ruled Verona from 1405 to 1796. It stands atop a pillar made of white marble right in front of Palazzo Maffei.
• Mazzanti Houses –  a long set of houses with commercial premises on the ground floor and residential apartments above. Their facades are covered with beautiful Renaissance frescoes depicting mythological and allegorical scenes. It was due to the large number of frescoed buildings in Verona that the city was known as Urbs Picta (the Painted City) in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.
• Madonna Verona – a 14th-century fountain crowned by a Roman statue with Gothic inclusions. It was placed there by Verona’s medieval rulers – the ruthless and powerful Scaliger Family. The fountain was built in celebration of the Scaliger’s hydraulic and engineering successes as they had built a system bringing water from the river Adige to Piazza delle Erbe.
• Arco della Costa – an archway with a long whalebone (some believe that it is, actually, a bone from an ichthyosaurus) suspended right beneath it since at least the 18th century. No-one knows for sure why. There are many hypotheses though. One is that the bone was brought back by a crusader, another states that an old pharmacy used it as a form of advertisement. And a third one insists that the bone is a fossil found in the hills surrounding Verona. Take your pick!

6. Torre dei Lamberti

Walk beneath the mysterious Arco della Costa (see the last bullet point under point 5 above) and just a few steps further down the passageway, you will find the entrance to another of Verona’s main sights.

Torre dei Lamberti is a 84 metres tall tower the construction of which was ordered by the noble Lamberti family back in the distant year of 1172. 

Buy a ticket and scale the tower’s 368 steps or – better – take the fast and convenient lift and soon you will be enjoying stunning views over Verona. The city’s red-roofed historical centre, the many mighty churches, the elegant palazzi , the glistening curve of the River Adige, the green hills on the other side of it – a gorgeous panorama will open right in front of your eyes.

It’s not in vain that the Lamberti Tower is known as Verona’s highest living room!

It’s curious to note that originally the tower was 37 metres high. When Verona’s Palazzo della Comune (also known as Palazzo della Ragione) was built in the 12th century, the tower became an integral part of it.

Between 1448 and 1463, the Lamberti Tower was elevated to its current height of 84 m. At the same time, the octagonal belfry of red bricks and white marble was also built on top of it.

The tower has four bells:

• Rengo – the largest bell was rung to call the City Council and to summon the army in case of attack;
• Marangona – the smallest bell rung the hours of the day thus serving as sorts of a public clock. It was also used to alert the citizens of Verona in case of fire.
• Bell of the Hours and Rabbiosa – the last two bells were added towards the end of the 18th century. At the same time, a large clock was also installed on the tower’s facade.

7. Piazza dei Signori

Once you are back on earth after your visit to the Lamberti Tower (see point 6 above), turn right and you will find yourself at Verona’s splendid Piazza dei Signori.

The square is surrounded by important buildings which – through the centuries – have played a vital role in the governance of Verona. In the middle of it all stands a statue depicting a pensive Dante. In the 14th century, the most renowned Italian poet of all times spent several years in Verona after his exile from Florence. 

Nowadays, Piazza dei Signori hosts many lively events. From a large Christmas market in winter to a wine festival in autumn, make sure that you stop there during your visit to Verona to see what’s on.

Otherwise, here are some of the most important buildings at and around Piazza dei Signori in Verona:

• Palazzo della Comune (also known as Palazzo della Ragione ) – an imposing 12th-century building with a long and richly decorated facade. It was erected to host the city’s administration, the salt reserves, and the grains market (the latter was held in the internal courtyard) among several other things. Towards the end of the 15th century, the palace was repurposed to a tribunal. Try to spot the so-called lion mouths ( bocche di leone in Italian) – small openings in the facade where the citizens of Verona could post anonymous complaints and information about people breaking the laws like selling silk while evading the Venetian monopoly on the trade. 
• Loggia del Consiglio – a very beautiful Renaissance building. Built towards the end of the 15th century, it housed the city’s council. The rich ornamentation of the building evokes Verona’s important Roman past.
• Palazzi Scaligeri – a brick palace erected to accommodate the medieval rulers of Verona – the Scaliger Family. They were not of noble origins. Instead, they were part of the merchant guild in town and originally occupied the Mazzanti Houses on Piazza delle Erbe (see point 5 above). Once in power, the Scaliger built themselves a palace to enhance their newly acquired political standing. 
• Arche Scaligeri and Church of Santa Maria Antica – just a step away from the Palazzi Scaligeri, you will find the Church of Santa Maria Antica. This tiny 12th-century church used to be the private chapel of Verona’s Scaliger rulers. Their tombs – the so-called Arche Scaligeri – are in the church’s courtyard. Considered to be the peak of Gothic art and architecture in Verona, the monumental tombs command respect and awe.   

8. Juliet’s House

Are you romantic at heart?! Or are you a bit cynical?!

Either way, it’s time to head to Verona’s probably most famous and certainly most abused by tourists sight – Juliet’s House.

You will find it on Via Cappello in the city  – a stone’s throw away from Via Mazzini (see point 4 above) and Piazza delle Erbe (see point 5 above). In any case, you will recognise that you are in the immediate vicinity of Juliet’s House by the proliferation of cheap souvenir shops…

and the hundreds of old gobs of chewing gum attached to the street’s and the house’s historic walls as improvised holders of pieces of paper with love notes on them.

Juliet’s House in Verona, Italy is one of the symbols of what overtourism can do to a popular city or sight. When I first visited it in 2007, I remember it as a very atmospheric place. Yes, there were crowds in the courtyard and everyone wanted their photo taken while touching the right breast of Juliet’s statue there. It supposedly brings good luck in love and, yes, I did meet my husband six months after touching Juliet’s breast, too.

Yet, it was a peaceful, clean place with love notes being stuck only to the walls of the small tunnel which leads from the street into the courtyard. Visitors were respectful and people were patiently waiting for their turn to have their photo taken. All in all, visiting Juliet’s House was a very nice experience for me back in 2007.

Nowadays, souvenir shops surround Juliet’s House to the point where all you see when you approach it are red lockets, keychains with hearts and fridge magnets shaped as Juliet’s breast. Tourists keep sticking gobs of gum to the walls in order to attach a love note. And, on St. Valentine’s Day, the famous balcony is where a proposal is made every five minutes or so. 

And now it’s time for some tough love: You know that this is not the real Juliet’s House, don’t you?!

In case you didn’t, I am sorry but I have to break it to you that Juliet as such never existed. She was a literary heroine who – together with her beloved Romeo – was created by the literary imagination of one Luigi da Porto. No, I didn’t make a mistake. I didn’t mean to type Shakespeare here.

Luigi da Porto was a nobleman from Vicenza – a city near Verona. He found inspiration in a local legend and two castles to write a novel at the start of the 16th century about the tragic love story of Romeo and Juliet. His novel was so successful that it was translated into English. William Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet was written at the end of the 16th century after at least two other English writers had retold the original Italian story.

Yet, even though this is not where Juliet lived and even though the balcony as you see it today was fashioned out of an ancient sarcophagus (after tourists kept asking where the balcony was), I urge you to visit Juliet’s House even if you are in Verona for a day.

The house as such dates back to the 14th century and once belonged to Verona’s Dal Cappello family, who, many speculate, served as an inspiration for the Capulets in the play. Even though the house nowadays is sparsely furnished inside, a visit to it gives you a chance to see for yourself how families lived in Verona centuries ago and how their houses were organised. It is a fortified tower-shaped house with many floors from which a great view of the courtyard below is revealed.  

9. Porta Leoni and Open-Air Archaeological Site on Via Leoni

You can see the remains of Porta Leoni – a gate in the defensive walls surrounding Roman Verona – on Via Leoni in the city. It’s just a few steps away from Juliet’s House (see point 8 above).

The gate was built in the 1 st century BC and then restructured in the 1st century AD. Strolling down Via Leoni in the heart of Verona’s historic centre, you will come across a tall portion of the interior facade of the gate which has been incorporated in the wall of a large residential building.

Then, in the middle of the street itself, you will see an open-air archaeological site with further remains of the Roman Porta Leoni and the defensive wall beneath the level of the street.

Stop for a minute or two and let your imagination take you back centuries ago when Verona was a prosperous Roman  municipium . At the time, Porta Leoni was one of the two main gates leading into the city (the other was Porta Borsari, see point 18 below).

A large number of people, animals and heavy loads would enter Verona through Porta Leoni each day. The gate was about 13 metres tall and had a rectangular 17 metres long shape. It looked like a small fort and it had an inner courtyard where people would be stopped and checked before being allowed in the city.

We don’t know what the Romans used to call this gate. Its current name – Porta Leoni (Lionsgate) – has been in use since the 15th century. There are two versions as to how it came to be: 

• the official version states that the gate’s name was inspired by the two sculpted lions used to adorn the top part of a Roman funeral monument which was positioned nearby;
• a local legend claims that an underground tunnel led from Porta Leoni all the way to Arena di Verona (see point 3 above) and it was used to bring large animals like lions on the Arena’s stage for the merciless gladiator fights. 

10. River Adige and Ponte Nuovo

Adige is Italy’s second-longest river. It rises in the Alps and it flows into the Adriatic Sea passing through Verona on its journey of 410 km.

The river has faithfully served Verona all through the city’s existence providing protection in Roman times, source of water in the Middle Ages and stunning views in our modern, image-obsessed world. Verona’s historical centre is tightly hugged by Adige’s wide curve.

On the left river bank and opposite the historic centre stands Veronetta – a vibrant neighbourhood with Roman relics, medieval churches, a Renaissance garden, and a fun funicular.

Cross Ponte Nuovo (New Bridge) over the river Adige and explore Veronetta for a couple of hours or so. The sights under points 11, 12, 13, and 14 below are all located in Veronetta. 

A bridge has been standing at Ponte Nuovo’s spot since the end of the 12th century. It’s curious to note that even at that time it had the same name. Well, compared to the Roman Ponte Pietra (see point 15 below), for example, this bridge was certainly new even as far back as the Middle Ages.

Ponte Nuovo was rebuilt several times through the centuries. After the retreating German army blew it up on 25th April 1945, the bridge was quickly erected again and nowadays serves as an important connection between Verona’s different parts.

Ponte Nuovo is 97 metres long and 15 metres wide. It affords you beautiful views over the river Adige, Ponte Pietra, Veronetta, and the green hills which surround Verona.

11. Giardino Giusti

This Renaissance garden is a tranquil place that fills the soul with beauty and dreams. First planted in the 15th century, the Giusti Garden is a place of contrasts:

• It has a flat part which has been styled in the best Italian gardening traditions. Tall cypress trees line the alleys and inspired Goethe himself when the German writer and statesman visited the Giusti Garden in 1786.
• Then, suddenly, the garden rises sharply up a steep hill all the way to Verona’s medieval defensive walls. Whimsical details like a grotto and a top-level balcony adorned with a grotesque mask (originally designed to billow smoke from its mouth) add to the unexpected character of the place.

Sit on a bench among the perfectly trimmed and geometrically shaped ivy bushes and have a lovely moment of relaxation while looking at the turtles and the koi carp in the two fountains.

Then walk up the hill and enjoy the views of Verona from several viewpoints at different heights.

Finish your visit by losing yourself in the Giusti Garden’s lush maze.

Click  here for a video of Verona seen from the Giusti Garden. The video is hosted on my blog’s Facebook page . For daily photos and videos of beautiful Italy and Europe, please like and follow my Facebook page. Thank you! 

12. Roman Theatre

In addition to the splendid Roman Arena di Verona (see point 3 above), Verona has its own Roman theatre, too. It was built in the 1st century BC. Large-scale excavations starting back in 1830 have helped bring to the surface large parts of the theatre.

Nowadays, you can see the seating sections, the steps leading to them, a portion of the original stage, and some arcades of the loggias that once stood there. In summer, theatre performances are regularly staged at Verona’s Roman Theatre. During the day, the theatre is open to visitors. In fact, Verona’s Archaeological Museum (see point 13 below) is right behind it so you can visit them both at the same time. 

13. Archaeological Museum

There are many Roman buildings, ruins, and vestiges around Verona but a visit to the city’s excellent Archaeological Museum will put its Roman past in context and will give you lots of information to dwell on.

You will find Verona’s Archaeological Museum right behind the city’s Roman Theatre (see point 12 above). Its collection is housed in the 14th-century building of a former monastery. Many artifacts are also arranged on the terraces surrounding the main building.

Sacred inscriptions, statues, mosaics… They all tell the story of Roman Verona and have been collected from the ruins of the Roman temples, villas, and dwellings that once stood in and around the city.    

14. Funicular of Castel San Pietro

Riding Verona’s Funicular of Castel San Pietro is a lot of fun. 

In about a minute and a half, its glass cabin takes you vertically 55 metres up on a track that is 159 metres long with an incline of 37%. As you are going up, spellbinding views of Verona open up in front of your eyes. At the top of the hill, stands the panoramic terrace of Castel San Pietro where you can spend some time just taking the panorama in.

The funicular was designed in 1939 and it was originally used to help the students of the Fine Arts Academy housed in Castel San Pietro reach their classes easily without having to go up and down the steep hill. Due to the hardships of the Second World War, the funicular ceased to operate in 1944. It was only in June 2017 that the funicular started working again.

A return ticket for the Funicular of Castel San Pietro at present costs only 2 euros. If you prefer, you can go up riding the funicular and then you can walk down the hill taking the gorgeous views from many different angles at each step.

The San Pietro Hill which the funicular helps you scale has an interesting history in its own right. Between the 6th and the 5th centuries BC, it was the first inhabited spot in what nowadays is Verona.

Later, the hill and the surrounding area – which nowadays is known as the neighbourhood of Veronetta – became the hotspot of Roman Verona. The imposing Roman Theatre (see point 12 above) and other important Roman buildings including a defensive fort and a temple dedicated to Jupiter (later demolished) were erected there in the 1st century BC. 

In the 19th century when Verona was occupied by the Austrian army, their San Pietro Barracks were built on top of the hill. This completed a long line of rulers to erect a fortress on that spot starting with the medieval King of the Ostrogoths Theodoric.

15. Ponte Pietra

Ponte Pietra (the Stone Bridge) is the only surviving bridge of Roman origins in Verona today. Its elegant arched structure spans the shores of the river Adige leading from the city’s medieval nucleus to what once was the hotspot of Roman Verona.

The first bridge to be erected at that place was made of wood. It was placed there during the construction of the Roman road Via Postumia. Its location was chosen as at that point the water current slows down and the river narrows as it follows a wide curve.

The current bridge is 92.80 metres long and 7.20 metres wide. It has five arches of different length and it perfectly reflects the history of Verona as it has a Roman, a Scaliger and a Venetian portion each erected with the construction techniques of the respective era. 

On 24th April 1945, Ponte Pietra was destroyed by the receding German army. It was then restored over two years in the second half of the 1960’s using its original components and relying on the dedicated support of a whole army of archaeologists, architects, and engineers.

Crossing Ponte Pietra is one of the highlights of a visit to Verona. The bridge is beautiful and it connects in history and time two of the most important parts of the city.   

16. Cathedral Complex

Just a short walk up from Ponte Pietra, you will come across Verona’s stunning duomo – the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta . 

Initially built in the 4th century AD, this was Verona’s first Christian church. From then on, the cathedral underwent many changes, additions, and expansions as the need to accommodate larger and larger congregations exponentially grew. Many disasters like earthquakes and fires affected its buildings through the centuries, too.

Nowadays, the Cathedral Complex includes:

• Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta – with a beautiful stone facade and interiors decorated with many detailed and sophisticated frescoes. Plus, here you can see the only Titian’s painting conserved in Verona.
• Church and Baptisterium of San Giovanni in Fonte – spend a quiet moment admiring the Romanesque baptismal font. Carved out of a single piece of marble, it’s covered with richly sculpted bas-reliefs narrating the Baptism of Christ. 
• Church of St. Elena – it occupies the original place at which the cathedral had been erected. Inside you can see preserved Paleo-Christian mosaics and several interesting archaeological excavations.
• Canon’s Cloister  
• Biblioteca Capitolare – founded in the 5th century AD, this is the world’s most ancient library in the context of Latin culture.
• Bishop’s Residence
• Square in front of the cathedral

Please, check the cathedral’s official website for opening times. This website will give you up-to-date information about single and combined ticket prices for visitors of the churches of Verona. Be aware that visitors are expected to be dressed appropriately to show their respect to the religious environment.

After visiting Verona’s Cathedral Complex, spend a moment exploring the area in which it’s situated. Follow the narrow curving streets, admire the tall frescoed buildings, and peek in courtyards protected by thick walls and huge wooden gates. You will feel like being transported back to Verona of the Middle Ages.

17. Basilica of Sant’Anastasia

The Gothic Basilica of Sant’Anastasia is the largest church in Verona and one of the city’s truly unmissable sights. Built between 1280 and 1400 by the Dominican Order, the basilica has a plain exterior and an incredibly inspiring and beautifully decorated interior.

Standing between the tall pillars of white and red Verona marble, it’s like finding yourself in a sacred forest waiting for a miracle to happen. I particularly love the frescoed ceiling while the floor is decorated with marble in three colours – white, red, and black – in a geometric composition creating a visual three-dimensional effect.

If you have time, make sure that you take an audio guide (it’s free with the entrance ticket) and spend some quiet moments learning about the history of the basilica and the many works of art it contains. Each chapel reveals even more priceless pieces of art and centuries-old stories behind them all.

18. Corso Sant’Anastasia and Corso Porta Borsari

Corso in Italian means ‘main street’ in English and here are two of the main streets in Verona which follow a straight line and merge one into another. 

Corso Sant’Anastasia starts from the homonymous church (see point 17 above) and then, at Piazza delle Erbe (see point 5 above), this long straight street becomes Corso Porta Borsari which takes you all the way to the Roman Borsari Gate.

It’s interesting to note that Corso Sant’Anastasia and Corso Porta Borsari follow the exact line of the ancient Decumanus Maximums – Verona’s main road in Roman times.

The urban plan of Roman cities was traditionally a grid made of streets (Decumani) running from east to west. These were perpendicularly crossed by the Cardini – streets that stretched from the north to the south.

The Decumanus Maximus was the main street which in the case of Verona followed the course of Via Postumia – the Roman road which connected Genoa to the west with Aquileia to the east.

So, walking on Corso Sant’Anastasia and Corso Porta Borsari is following in ancient tracks. Nowadays, both streets are lined with beautiful multi-storied palaces and buildings. Their ground floors host a gaggle of luxury shops selling both antique and modern-day objects of desire. In addition, there are several vestiges of the streets’ Roman past.

Here are some of the most interesting sights you can see strolling along:

• various antique shops selling refined collections of art, furniture, home decorations, and jewellery.
• Antica Salumeria G. Albertini – a historical deli in Verona which will delight all food lovers seeking to taste the local delicacies. Plus, it has a really beautiful shopfront.
• Palazzo Maffei – facing Piazza delle Erbe (see point 5 above), here is one of Verona’s most beautiful palaces and a perfect representation of the Baroque architectural style (see a photo under point 5 above).
• Gardello Tower – a medieval brick tower right next to Palazzo Maffei. In the Middle Ages, it served as Verona’s public clock as a large bell installed in the tower’s top would ring every hour. The bell weights 1,800 kg and nowadays is kept in the Castelvecchio Museum (see point 20 below).
• Pasticceria de Rossi (no relation to me) – one of Verona’s best bakeries where you can indulge in local sweets, savoury snacks, freshly-made pasta, and other delights. Personally, I have to pop in here every time that I am in Verona to buy a bag of my favourite  sweets.

Called Baci di Romeo and Baci di Giulietta (literally ‘Romeo’s Kisses’ and ‘Juliet’s Kisses), they taste divine and are typical for Verona. Romeo’s version is made of almond paste and buttercream and Juliet’s is made of hazelnut paste and chocolate cream.

• Archaeological Area of Corte Sgarzerie – an inner courtyard rich in historical artifacts. The remains of Verona’s Capitolium have been unearthed here. Built in the 1st century BC to celebrate that Verona had become a Roman municipium, at its heart was a large temple dedicated to Juno, Jupiter, and Minerva. In the Middle Ages, the area became the centre of the important for Verona wool trade. A loggia was built there in 1299 to host the workers who were busy carding the wool. Known as the Loggia del Mangano, this elegant structure is supported by pillars of red Verona marble. Its top floor nowadays houses different associations whereas its ground floor is often filled with the tables of the nearby restaurants.  
• Church of San Giovanni in Foro – a tiny medieval church with Renaissance elements which is often closed but if you spot it open, don’t miss your chance to visit. Inside, you will feel like you have been transported centuries back in time. The church has been at this spot since at least the 10th century and its name references the nearby Roman Forum which nowadays is where Piazza delle Erbe (see point 5 above) stands.
• Porta Borsari – a beautiful structure made of white stone. It used to be one of the two main gates in the Roman defensive walls through which people and loads flowed into Verona over twenty centuries ago. Only the external facade of Porta Borsari remains to this day. It’s about 13 m tall and 13 m wide. 

19. Arco dei Gavi

Arco dei Gavi is a monumental Roman arch in Verona. You will find it right next to the medieval Castelvecchio (see point 20 below) with the river Adige flowing fast behind it.

The Gavi’s Arch was built in the 1st century AD in honour ot the gens Gavia – a noble Roman family of plebeian descent. Adorned with statues (since then lost) of members of the Gavi family, the arch was originally placed on Via Postumia. This was the Roman road that led from Genoa to Aquileia thus connecting the Ligurian Sea with the Adriatic Sea. In fact, on the ground between the arch’s columns, you can still see a tiny portion of the Via Postumia to this day. 

During the Middle Ages, the Gavi’s Arch was moved to serve as a gate in Verona’s medieval defensive walls and was then known as the Porta Nuova di San Zeno. Apparently, at the time, the arch was also used to house a small shop or two.

With the revival of the interest in Roman architecture during the Italian Renaissance, the Gavi’s Arch was much admired by some of the most famous artists and architects of the time like Andrea Palladio and Andrea Mantegna. The arch was thoroughly studied and its shape replicated in the altars, chapels and main doors of some of the most important churches in Verona. For example, the Pindemonte altar in the Church of Sant’Anastasia (see point 17 above).

In 1805, the Gavi’s Arch was dismantled by the French soldiers who, under the command of Napoleon, had taken over Verona. The arch was put back together again more than a century later – in 1932 – at a time when there was a widespread national ambition to focus on the affiliation between Ancient Rome and Italy.

Since then the Gavi’s Arch stands tall and proud next to the Castelvecchio Museum. Its current place allows you to admire it from all four sides – as originally designed by the Roman architect Lucius Vitruvius Cerdo.

20. Castelvecchio & Scaliger Bridge

Castelvecchio – The Old Castle – is one of the most precious gems in Verona’s crown. 

It is a mighty castle made entirely of red bricks on the shores of the river Adige. Its Gothic crenelated walls and robust square turrets take you right back to the time when the ruthless Scaliger family ruled over Verona. Between the 13th and the 14th centuries, the Scaligers built many castles in their lands. You can find them from Malcesine and Lazise on Lake Garda  to Valeggio sul Mincio and Villafranca di Verona – two smaller towns within an easy reach of Verona.

Among them all, Castelvecchio is the most impressive and the sturdiest one – a castle built to withstand attacks and to house the military court of a militant despot. 

Nowadays, Castelvecchio is home to a much more delicate collection. Hundreds of sculptures, paintings, frescoes, ceramics, weapons, and pieces of jewellery are displayed in the Castelvecchio Museum. Walking from room to room in the old castle and taking in its many works of art is a pleasure you can not miss in Verona. Originals by Pisanello, Bellini (Jacopo and Gentile), Mantegna, Tintoretto and Rubens adorn the walls.

There are two curious things about Castelvecchio:

• one is that the castle has its own bridge – the Scaliger Bridge – connecting it to the other side of the River Adige. Built also of red bricks, the bridge was meant to guarantee a safe passage to the Scaliger rulers should their castle be taken over by the army of an enemy.
• the other is that it was the renowned Venetian architect Carlo Scarpa whose restoration work allowed Castelvecchio to be transformed from a medieval castle into a worldwide known museum of art.

3 Verona Itineraries to Suit Every Taste and Ability  

Based on the herewith listed 20 best things to do in Verona in one day, here are three potential itineraries to suit every taste and ability.

Of course, feel free to mix and match these 20 best things any way you like. It’s your day in Verona, so it’s you who decides what you want to see and do in this lovely Northern Italian city.

The three itineraries given below are simply suggestions which don’t oblige you in any way and also don’t give you any promises or guarantees. You should check in advance the opening hours of the different sights given above as well as which ones of them require payment in order to be visited. I have provided links to the sights’ official websites where possible.

I. In-depth Verona

If you have only a day to spend in Verona, Italy and yet you want to see it all (or, at least, as much as humanly possible), this is the right itinerary for you. Simply follow the twenty points above one by one and exactly in the order they are listed. By late afternoon you would have ticked off the most important unmissable sights in Verona together with several hidden gems and many stunning views.

This itinerary is taxing as you will spend all day walking between and inside sights, so wear your most comfortable shoes and carry water with you. You will need to start early in the morning and it will take you all day. Plus, you won’t be able to spend much time at each place but you will see so much. 

This itinerary will take you through all the most important historical layers of Verona – Roman age, medieval heritage, Renaissance beauty, religious roots and fun modern times.

II. Verona’s Highlights

There are two options here:

• If you don’t want to cross to the other side of the river Adige, visit the following points in this order: 1-2-3-4-8-9-5-6-7-17-16-18-19-20.
• If you want to cross to the other side of the river Adige, visit the following points in this order: 1-2-3-4-5-7-8-17-15-14-15-18-19-20.

This is a more restrained version of the In-Depth Verona one-day itinerary given above. Again, you will walk lots and won’t be able to spend much time at each place but the rhythm will be slightly more relaxed. 

III. Verona’s Top Five

Here are five of the best and most well-known things to do in Verona , Italy. Check their respective entries above for further details. You decide in what order to experience them.

1. Arena di Verona

2. Castelvecchio 

3. Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori

4. Juliet’s House

5. Church of Sant’Anastasia

Useful Tips about Visiting Verona, Italy in One Day

1. where is verona, italy.

Verona is one of the major cities in the region of the Veneto in the northeast of Italy.

You will find Verona next door to Lago di Garda – Italy’s largest lake – and an easy train ride away from a number of the largest and most famous Italian cities like Venice , Bologna , Florence, Turin , and Milan .

2. How to reach Verona, Italy?

From abroad, the easiest way to reach Verona is by plane. The city has a small but busy airport which is connected to Verona’s main train station – Verona Porta Nuova – via a regularly running shuttle bus. There are several other nearby airports that are very convenient for Verona. Here is a shortlist:

• Verona Airport Valerio Catullo – Verona’s own airport is about 10 km away from the city’s main train station Verona Porta Nuova. A regular shuttle bus connects both in about 15 mins. 
• Bergamo Airport Orio al Serio – depending on traffic, you can reach Verona by car on toll roads in about 1 hour 10 mins to 1 h 40 mins from Bergamo’s very popular low-cost airport. If you travel by bus and train, then expect a travelling time from around 1 h 30 mins to 2 hours 20 mins. The distance is 115 km.
• Marco Polo Airport – depending on traffic, you can reach Verona by car on toll roads in about 1 h 15 mins to 2 h from Venice’s bustling airport. If you travel by bus and train, then the average travelling time is just under 2 hours. The distance is 127 km.
• Bologna Airport Guglielmo Marconi –  depending on traffic, you can reach Verona by car on toll roads in about 1 h 15 mins to 2 h from Bologna’s nicely appointed low-cost airport. If you travel by bus and train, then the travelling time can be anything between 1 h 30 mins and 2 h. The distance is about 139 km.
• Treviso Airport – depending on traffic, you can reach Verona by car on toll roads in about 1 h 20 mins to 2 h 10 mins from Treviso’s busy low-cost airport. If you travel by bus and train, then the travelling time stretches from 2 h 10 mins up to almost 3 h. The distance is 135 km.
• Milan Linate Airport – depending on traffic, you can reach Verona by car on toll roads in about 1 h 25 mins to 2 h 10 mins from Milan’s bustling airport. If you travel by bus and train, you will need anything between 2 and 3 h. The distance is 150 km.

Verona can also be reached easily by train and bus from anywhere in Italy or Europe. The city’s main train station – Verona Porta Nuova – is a major cross-junction station in Italy. It handles 25 million passengers annually. Verona Porta Nuova is on the main Milan-Venice trainline and you can get direct trains to Austria from there, too.

Verona is also very easy to reach by car. The city sits on the crossroads of some of the most important and busiest Italian and European highways and routes:

• A4 – this highway connects Verona with Turin, Milan, and Brescia to the west and Vicenza, Padua, Venice, and Triest to the east;
• European route E45 – this route connects Verona to several Italian cities (among them Perugia, Bologna, and Modena) to the south and many Italian as well as Central and Northern European cities (among them Trento, Bolzano, Innsbruck, Munich, and Hamburg) to the north.

3. How big is Verona, Italy?

Verona has around 260,000 inhabitants and a very walkable historic centre which is easy to navigate on foot and with a baby buggy. The city is on the river Adige which is crossed by several bridges.

If you have just a day to spend in this beautiful Italian city, you can easily walk around and tick off as many of the listed above 20 best things to do in Verona as you can and want. 

There is a well-organised public transport system with buses crisscrossing the city. Buses, however, are not allowed inside Verona’s actual historical centre. Still, to save you the 20-minute walk, you can get a bus from the main train station Verona Porta Nuova to the Roman Arena di Verona and then explore on foot from there.

A small tourist train (called trenino ) runs at regular intervals through Verona’s historic centre. It allows you to reach several sights on this list in relative comfort without having to walk all day. This is especially useful if you are travelling with small children (who will love exploring the city by train) or with adults with reduced mobility. Click here to find more information about Verona’s trenino .

4. What events take place in Verona, Italy?

Verona is a very active, energetic place where many different events and festivals take place throughout the year. In addition, VeronaFiere – a large exhibition centre on the outskirts of the city – hosts a long list of fairs of international fame.

Here are some of the most exciting and most important happenings taking place in Verona each year:

• Verona in Love – a multi-day festival dedicated to love and romance which takes place around St. Valentine’s Day; 
• Verona Opera Festival – a world-class opera event taking place in the almost 2,000-years-old Roman Arena di Verona. Click here for more details and photos.
• Christmas in Verona – an exciting Christmas market and several accompanying events making the festive season in Verona an unmissable experience.
• Vinitaly – the largest wine exhibition in the world.
• Verona Carnival – expect a splendid Carnival parade, a shower of confetti and a mythical figure – the Papa del Gnoco . Click here for more details and photos.

Add to the above a never-ending thread of weekly markets, pop and rock concerts, theatre performances, large art exhibitions and culinary events and you will get an idea of how varied and exciting the social and cultural life of Verona is.

5. Can you recommend accommodation in Verona, Italy?

Sure! From first-hand experience, I can recommend the following three places to stay in Verona. The first two are perfect if you need to be in the centre of the action as they are both very centrally located for all important sights in the city’s historical centre. The third is ideal if you are planning a visit to an exhibition or fair in VeronaFiere as it is a few minutes on foot from it.

I have provided links directly to the websites of the three hotels, so that you can book directly with them rather than going through a third-party booking service. Please, kindly note that these are not affiliate links and I don’t earn any commission or another stimulus by recommending them. I loved staying in all three on different occasions and I am only too happy to pass the word along.

Here they are:

Palazzo Monga – a splendid boutique hotel housed in a lavish palazzo a step away from the Roman gate Porta Borsari (see point 18 above). Very elegant and with discreet service, it is a great place to stay at if you want an unforgettable Italian luxury experience.

Hotel Accademia – overlooking Mazzini Street (see point 4 above), this hotel combines a very convenient location with lovely service and surroundings. Excellent breakfast in the morning.

Crowne Plaza Verona – a very modern and comfortable hotel conveniently located for the nearby exhibition centre VeronaFiere and the large shopping mall Adigeo.

If you prefer to choose a different accommodation in Verona, Italy, then have a look at this map. It gives you a quick visual idea of many hotels and other forms of accommodation you can book for your stay in Verona:

6. What nearby cities and towns can I visit from Verona, Italy?

Verona really is in the middle of the action as there are so many gorgeous places within an easy reach from it where you can head to for an unforgettable day trip in Italy. Venice, Milan, and Lake Garda are just three of them.

Click here for a detailed list giving you full information about 16 great destinations to explore travelling from Verona. Shortlists with unmissable sights, travel times, train tips and lots of photos are provided, too.

In Conclusion

Verona is a beautiful city in the Northern Italian region of the Veneto with multilayered history, a host of exciting events, and a myriad of exciting sights to discover for yourself.

Known as the City of Love for being the stage of Romeo and Juliet’s tragic romance, Verona is also famous worldwide for its opera traditions, Roman heritage and medieval links.

If you only have a day to explore Verona and all it has to offer to the curious traveller, most likely you will want to cover as much ground as possible within your allotted time. The above blog post will help you do just this by taking you to all the major Verona sights and several of its hidden gems.

All this is logically organised in three possible itineraries which depend on your wish and ability to traverse Verona’s historical centre on foot for one long day.

From the stunning Arena di Verona (which is older than Rome’s Colliseum) to the medieval Castelvecchio which nowadays houses a collection of priceless art and artifacts – everything is covered. In addition to Verona’s vest views, most beautiful churches, historic piazzas, and a fun ride on a funicular. In the end, a short section with useful tips and practical information about visiting Verona is included, too.

I hope that the above blog post will be of help to you during the planning stages of your trip to Verona and that it will help you fall in love with this vibrant Italian city and everything it has to offer.

More Helpful Links

• Best Things to Do in Verona, Italy – Story
• Day Trips from Verona – 16 Destinations in Italy to Fall in Love with (With Travel Times and Train Tips)
• Verona Opera Festival – A Guide to the World’s Most Spectacular Opera Event
• Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona – Visiting Italy’s Church Suspended Between Heaven and Earth
• Top 15 Places to Visit in the Veneto, Italy – The Ultimate Guide
• 30 Days of Adventures in the Veneto, Italy
• 10 Best Cities in the Veneto, Italy to Visit and What to See in Each
• Italian Piazzas – 20 Most Beautiful Squares in the Veneto, Northern Italy
• Best 12 Towns to Visit around Lago di Garda – Italy’s Largest Lake
• Lake Garda with Kids or the Best 11 Things to Do at Lake Garda for Families
• 18 of the Best Cities to Visit in Northern Italy (With Travel Tips and Nearest Airports
• Video of  Juliet’s House  in Verona
• Video of the display of a  traditional Italian patisserie  in Verona
• Video of  The Juliet Club  in Verona
• Video of  Piazza Bra with Arena di Verona
• Video of  Verona’s skyline seen from Giardino Giusti
• Video of  Verona’s skyline seen from the funicular of Castel San Pietro
• Video of  Verona Marathon

Have you been to Verona, Italy? What did you love the most there? What else do you think must definitely be on my list with 20 best things to do in Verona, Italy above? Let me know in the Comments section below!

Thank you for reading! Please, leave me a comment, pin the image below or use the buttons right at the top and at the end of this blog post to share it on social media.

For more useful information like this, please, like my blog’s page on  Facebook  and  subscribe  to my strictly no-spam newsletter.

Email address:

Tuesday 21st of February 2023

Not long back...what a wonderful itinerary...we did the lot in our three amazing days in Verona. Thanks for the tips and the guides. Love your site!

Thursday 23rd of February 2023

Thank you for your kind words! I am glad you enjoyed Verona. It's such a vibrant city. A must-see in Italy. Best wishes,

Wednesday 13th of October 2021

Thank you for this very detailed article - Loved! An incurable romantic I have always wanted to visit the setting of Romeo & Juliet's story. Finally we are going! But now, I am so excited to see the rest of the city too.

Thursday 14th of October 2021

Thank you for your kind words, Wendy! Have a wonderful time in Verona. It really is a beautiful city. If Romeo and Juliet settings are of interest to you, perhaps you may want to have a look here, too. It gives you the real-life and the literary settings of the world's most famous story. I hope you enjoy it!

Best wishes,

Paula Aldwell

Friday 10th of September 2021

Thank you ... a wonderful informative blog.

Thank you for your kind words! Best wishes,

Monday 1st of February 2021

Hello, now that our region is Yellow, yay, we plan to visit Verona this upcoming weekend. Can you recommend a good spot for pranza? Coming from Vincenza.

Yay! I am so pleased about the Veneto!!! Have a wonderful time in Verona! There are many lovely places to eat there. However, I have no idea what will be open and what the opening hours will be like, unfortunately. In any case, I always enjoyed Ristorante Arche (https://www.facebook.com/ristorantearche/) which is in Romeo's House. A place to get a quick bite to eat that I also always enjoyed was (no relation to me!) De Rossi Bakery (https://www.derossi.it/en/).

Hana Katzourakisova

Sunday 26th of January 2020

Hi Rossi, I have just discovered your blog. Very useful information! We are planning to visit Verona at Easter. I was just wondering how busy it gets and how it's going to affect our visit regarding the opening hours of shops, restaurants or even the bus tabels as we would like to go for some day trips nearby too. We will be staying in Verona from Good Friday to Easter Monday. I was thinking about visiting also Lago di Garda and Mantua or Soave. What would you suggest - where would you recommend to go and perhaps how would you plan it (during which days) so we would avoid the crowds. TIA, Hana

Saturday 1st of February 2020

Thank you for stopping by and for your comment. Verona is a lovely place to visit in Italy - there is so much to do and see there. For opening hours, etc., it's always best to contact the local tourist information office as they would have the most up to date information. With regards to day trips - all of the above options are great ideas for day trips from Verona. Which one to choose depends entirely on one's interests and available time. Wishing you a great time in Italy,

Sharing is Caring

Help spread the word. You're awesome for doing it!

ROOTS ABROAD

Explore with us

How to Spend One Day in Verona, Italy | The City of Romance

Filled with history, quaint little streets, and buzzing cafés, the captivating city of Verona is definitely worth spending at least one day. Surrounded by cypress-covered hills, this Italian city became the symbol of love thanks to Shakespeare’s tale of Romeo & Juliet . The city of romance has way more to offer than just Juliet’s balcony and their tragic love story. While most tourists would only spend one day in Verona on a trip from Venice or Milan, you surely can take more time wandering around here. This place is just filled with photogenic historic buildings on every corner you turn and comes with an extraordinary panoramic viewpoint. To top it off, you can even attend an open-air opera at the Arena during summer. Aside from the many stunning architectural treasures, Verona is also the place to feast on delightful dishes and shop in local boutiques in hidden alleyways.

Looking to spend one day or more in the charming city of Verona? In this travel guide, we will not only take you along all the best things to do but also some tasty places to try out local dishes and of course to have Italian coffee or Aperitivo. Lastly, we packed some useful & practical travel tips to make your trip go smoothly. Read on to get the most out of your one day in Verona.

No time to read now? Pin it to Pinterest for later!

*  Disclosure:  This post contains affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you book through our links. This is at no extra cost to you. This way you’re helping us write awesome travel guides and keep providing you with free content. We only recommend products we like and trust ourselves.

City Guide to One Day in Verona

Verona is often overlooked as a travel destination by its famous neighbors Milan & Venice. However, the city of romance deserves more attention than just a stop on the Italian itinerary. In our opinion, Verona has somewhat the same flair as Florence, only a bit smaller and more relaxed. Although it doesn’t have an equally impressive cathedral, it offers an impressive Roman arena and its fair share of charming squares.

Sometimes referred to as “little Rome” (or Piccola Roma ), Verona was founded in the 1st century BC as a Roman settlement and held much importance during the Roman times. Verona possesses the most Roman structures after Rome itself. You will find Roman ruins and stunning churches all over town. Because of its strategic location at the intersection of many medieval routes, the city was often fought over by many kingdoms. It flourished most under the rule of the Scaligeri family during the 14th century. During this period Verona knew many vicious feuds between the two dominant families of the city. These served later on as the inspiration for the tale of Romeo and Juliet .

It was only in 1866 that Verona became part of Italy’s kingdom. Tragically, the city suffered much damage during World War II. It was bombed around 30 times, damaging most of the buildings, which were later restored. The many well-preserved monuments of Verona made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.

Things to know before visiting Verona

Travel basics for one day in verona.

Language? The official language of Verona and Italy in general is Italian. Most people that we encountered spoke English, but it’s always useful to learn a few phrases. 

Currency? Italy uses the Euro €. For the exchange rate, check out xe.com website . 

How to pay? To our surprise card payment is widely accepted even in markets or small coffee bars. There are usually enough ATMs around, but make sure to have some cash on you.

Plugs? In Italy, you can find three associated plug types, types C, F, and L, with a standard 230V voltage and a standard frequency of 50 Hz. So if you come from outside of Europe, make sure to check for a   universal adaptor .

Safety? Verona is a very safe city, we never felt unsafe during our trip. We do always emphasize being aware of our surroundings and using common sense. Pickpocketing can always occur in tourist areas of bigger cities, just like all over Europe. 

Culinary Tips for Verona, Italy

Make a reservation | Just like in Bologna , we recommend making a reservation if you have your eye on a particular restaurant. Chances are there are no tables if you walk by during high season and you will need to wait for a while. 

Tipping | Unlike many other countries, it’s not common to leave a tip at a restaurant or café in Italy.

Coperto | You will notice that in most restaurants you are paying for something called ‘coperto ’. This is a little extra fee, a cover charge per person that is part of the bill. Usually, this is around €2 per person and is kind of seen as an automatic “tip” and mostly covers the given bread basket and the table service. So it’s up to you if you want to give extra tips in the end, but it’s not needed. Others might add a servizio , or service charge, calculated as a percent of the final bill (We have never seen that). Usually, the amount of the servizio or coperto is mentioned on the menu. So don’t be surprised to see this popping up on your receipt.

Espresso |  It’s common for Italians to drink their coffee or caffè while standing at the counter. Italians love to bond and socialize over coffee. Usually, an Italian coffee ritual only takes around 7 minutes.  It’s important to know, if you order a coffee or caffè, you will be getting espresso in Italy!

How many days should I plan for Verona?

It might not seem like it on the map, but Verona is a rather compact city. Theoretically, you can easily do all the highlights in the center of Verona in one day . Since most major sights are just a stone’s throw away from each other, it’s no problem to explore them all on foot. We ourselves only booked two nights in Verona right near the river, and only had one full day. During this day we were able to see all the above-mentioned sights except for the Giardino Giusti and Julia’s house (we only passed by). Like many people, we only stopped by Verona from our road trip to Bologna & Cinque Terre . Many tourists only visit Verona as a day trip from Lake Garda.

That being said, Verona is definitely worth an extra day . We regret not spending one more day to see everything at a more relaxed pace, soak up the city’s ambiance, and see it more thoroughly. This city of romance lends itself to slow morning strolls in its little alleyways and spending long afternoons in its quaint cafés. That’s why we definitely recommend spending two full days here . The city might not be as big as Florence or Bologna , but it’s absolutely stunning. So if you want to explore the city in a leisurely way, make sure to book those three nights.

When is the best time to travel to Verona?

Like many European destinations, Verona comes most alive during the warmer summer months . However, just like many other Italian places, it can get rather crowded and way too hot then. As mentioned, only during the summer months you will be able to attend the opera at the Arena. As such, we recommend visiting Verona more during the shoulder months. If you want to make the most of it, and still have nice weather, lower prices, and fewer people, September might be the best option .

In general, we prefer to travel through Europe during the months of September or May, since the weather is more reasonable and the big hordes of tourists have left. Good to know that Verona is exceptionally popular during the month of February . As the city of romance, Verona attracts many couples for Valentine’s Day, who want to spend this holiday in the setting of Shakespeare’s love tale.

Should you buy the Verona Card?

With the Verona Card, you can get either free entrance or a reduced fee to all top attractions , free transportation, and discounts on opera and theater tickets. The card costs you only €20 for 24 hours or €25 for 48 hours and gives you access to most of the sights mentioned below from the first use.

Though we only spent one full day in Verona, the Verona Card was really worth it! Even if you only plan on visiting the Verona Arena, climbing the Torre dei Lamberti, and visiting the Castel Vecchio you already got your money’s worth out of the card.

A major plus of the card is the priority entrance to Verona Arena . Really comes in handy when you are traveling to Verona in high season! The card also includes access to public transportation. Perfect, when you are staying a little out of the center or you are time bound to see everything in a day. So just check the costs for each individual attraction you would like to visit and see if the card makes sense for you.

You can purchase the Verona card at every participating attraction or at the tourist information center in Piazza Bra. Through Get Your Guide you can book the Verona card online in advance .

How to get to Verona?

Verona is located in the northern part of Italy in the Veneto region. It’s close to many other popular travel destinations such as Bologna , and Venice (both approx 1.5 hours by car) and only 45 minutes from Lake Garda.

If you are planning on spending only one day in Verona, it’s likely you are traveling from another city in Italy. The good thing is that Verona is easily accessible by train.

The main train station is Porta Nuova Station , where most trains arrive from other big cities such as Florence, Bologna, or Venice. You can book and check timetables for Verona on the Trenitalia website . The Freccia trains are regional high-speed trains, the fastest way to get from Verona to other big cities. To give you an idea, the train ride from Bologna only takes around 50 minutes, and from Venice just over an hour. So it’s easy and feasible to do a day trip from another city here. 

There are also numerous direct connections to Verona from other European destinations, such as cities in Germany and Austria . We advise to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. To book tickets, and check availability or departure times, check the Rail Europe website .

Once arriving at the train station you can reach the city center with a 15-minute walk, by taking the bus or a taxi.

A popular & cheap mode of transport within Europe is taking the Flixbus. There are direct services running from many cities to Verona. It will take you a bit longer than the train and definitely longer than a plane. But it’s a budget-friendly option for exploring Europe. Check out the Flixbus website for timetables and prices.

Since we were planning on visiting multiple destinations on our Italy trip (we passed Bologna on our way to Cinque Terre and afterward visited Verona), we decided to travel by car. When you come from Austria or Germany , traveling by car is definitely an option. Verona is about 7 hours from Vienna and a good 5 hours from Munich.

A few things you need to keep in mind when traveling by car though:

• You should look into a parking space in advance. You will want to avoid the ZTL (limited traffic Zone), which is mostly the old town. Just like in many other Italian cities, you don’t want to drive here in order to avoid a fine. So the best is to find a parking spot outside the center. There are many secure parking lots within 5-minute walking distance. We parked our car here , a secure parking garage at decent prices.
• Also, keep in mind you need to pay a highway toll in Italy. Unfortunately, they don’t work with Vignette, you have to pay per usage of the highway (calculated in distance and region) and it’s not really cheap. To give you an estimation, for using the highway from Verona to Austria we paid around €20 (not including the fee for the Brenner). You will pass a toll booth when going on the highway where you get a ticket, once you leave the highway at your destination you pass a toll booth again at the exit where you will have to pay (via card or cash). 

Verona has its own international airport if you are flying to Italy. Many people also arrive here as a getaway to the nearby Dolomites. From the airport, you can take the blue shuttle bus which stops in front of the terminal. This bus will take you to the main train station (Porta Nuova). Tickets cost around €6, which you can buy directly from the driver and the journey only takes around ten minutes. From the station, you can either walk to the city center (10 minutes), take a bus towards Piazza Bra (line 11, 12 or 13) for around €2, or grab a taxi (but this will easily cost you €30 for just a short ride).

How to get around Verona?

Most of the sights within the Centro Storico (the old town) and its surroundings are easily walkable . We walked everywhere in Verona, which is the easiest way to get around in the old town and soak up the atmosphere. Our stay was just across the river, so it didn’t make much sense for us to use public transport. However, if you are arriving by train or plane and you booked a hotel outside of the Centro Storico, you might want to use the bus system once in a while. As mentioned if you purchase the Verona Card, public transportation is free during the card’s validity.

Book a walking tour of Verona

To get the most out of your one day in Verona and learn more about the city and its historic sights, you can always join one of the many walking tours . This specific guided tour takes you along all of Verona’s highlights. Numbers are limited to 12 people on this small-group tour, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Best places to eat & drink in Verona

What better way to explore an Italian city like Verona than by sampling as much delicious food as you can? The region of Verona is known for gnocchi, risotto all’Amarone, polenta, Pastissada de caval, and so much more! Local traditional dishes you simply have to try. Below you can find our personal recommendations for lunch & dinner spots, coffee & Italian aperitivo, and of course the best gelato for your one day in Verona.

Quick Bites for One Day in Verona

Foccaceria Ponte Pietra – For a quick bite stop by this foccaceria near the River Adige. This tucked away place has many different types of focaccia to still your hunger and that for only €2. Take a seat on the bench outside or grab a slice and sit along the river. An easy, but delicious budget option for your trip.

Focacceria La Figaccia – If you are hungry while being on the other side of town this Focacceria is a good alternative. Delicious straight from the oven and made with local fresh ingredients! Perfect mid-day snack for a cheap price.

Dinner spots for One Day in Verona

Trattoria La Molinara – Local cuisine prepared with regional products, such as the famous Veronese horse meat stew. This is a beloved place amongst locals and the perfect location for an authentic experience.

La Taverna di Via Stella – The setting of this restaurant gives you old-school vibes, with some amazing ambiance. The staff is especially friendly and helpful and offers a wide selection of local dishes. We had the Risotto al Amarone here for the first time, and it was a great choice. As the main dish, we tried the horse meat stew (Pastissada de Caval) and rabbit, both served with polenta. We can highly recommend this place to try out typical Veneto dishes. Make sure to leave some space for tiramisu!

Il Vicoletto Cucina e Pizza – Our favorite restaurant in Verona and still truly a hidden gem. We loved the traditional tagliatelle al ragu and carbonara here. We recommend making reservations upfront and asking for a table outside. Their setting is just wonderful with the little tables on the side of the little quiet alleyway. We had an amazing evening here!

La Bottega Della Gina XXL – For handmade tortellini and other fresh pasta this place is worth a visit. In the evening you can enjoy a nice dinner at the place itself, but it’s actually a shop. In case you are staying at an Airbnb or rented apartment you can pick up some delicious freshly made pasta to cook at home.

Other places that we have heard and read great things about and might try out on our next visit:

• Café Carducci
• Osteria Il Bertoldo
• Enoteca Segreta
• Osteria Trattoria Al Duomo
• La Lanterna
• Sapore Downtown
• Nastro Azzurro 

Coffee Spots for One Day in Verona

Caffè Borsari – A lovely quaint coffee bar with friendly staff and some amazing coffee at good prices. Best coffee hands down to get your daily fix in Verona.

Caffe E Parole – Lovely location on the square near the Verona Cathedral to enjoy a nice breakfast or lunch.

Gelato Places for One Day in Verona

You simply cannot visit Italy without sampling the countless gelato flavors. And after all that sightseeing, who doesn’t deserve a little treat? You will probably encounter a Cremeria around every corner to get your daily sugar fix. However, we took the daunting task of trying out many local places, after which we can recommend the below ones:

Gelateria Ballini – This place has two branches in the city, one conveniently located near Piazza Dei Signori (update: temporarily closed). The other one is on the other side of the river near the Ponte Nuovo, this is where we went. Their flavors are really rich & intense and have a creamy texture, just how we like it! Portions are quite big, so don’t go all out on the number of balls when ordering. We can as always recommend getting their pistachio, but they also have amazing fruit sorbets. Delicious and refreshing, at affordable prices. Worth making the little detour!

L’arte Del Gelato – Close to Casa di Giulietta, this place is a favorite amongst many tourists. They use high-quality ingredients for their delicious artisanal ice cream at really reasonable prices.

Gelateria La Romana – This one is located outside the tourist center, more southwest, so a little off the beaten path but worth the visit. A lovely place where you can enjoy tasty gelato in cozy decor. They have many options in flavors, cones, and sizes. If you fancy something else than gelato they also offer a beautiful assortment of pies and cakes, as well as crepes!

Best places to stay in Verona

Even though the city of Verona is rather compact, there are many great accommodation options. Just like with Bologna , we however noticed that hotels are less common and it’s easier to find a bed & breakfast, guesthouse, or apartment. Depending on the time you are visiting Verona, make sure to look for accommodation at least 3 months upfront. For us, the months of June to September were almost fully booked 3 months upfront. Also, keep in mind guesthouses often have shared bathrooms, so be sure to check for that specifically when booking. For apartments, check-ins are often done remotely, via a code to enter and communication is via Whatsapp.

Our accommodation in Verona

We stayed in a self-hosted apartment called La Casa Sui Portici located just across the river from the old town. The location was perfect for us, in a quiet street, only ten minutes from the main sights. We were able to do everything in the city on foot. The overall apartment was cozily decorated, we felt taken back in time, in a typical Veronese setting. However everything was modernly updated, so very comfortable.

The apartment size was bigger than we expected, especially for two people. It comes with a cozy seating area, a lovely kitchen with all the utilities you need, and a dining area. The host foresaw little snacks and small things like jam & tea for breakfast. The bathroom is a bit on the smaller side, but we already knew this from the reviews and wasn’t a dealbreaker for us (not for two nights at least). The only thing we totally overlooked in the pictures and description was that the bedroom is upstairs, which is accessed by a rather steep staircase. All in all, it was doable, but not ideal if you need to go to the bathroom at night (which is downstairs). I would definitely not recommend it if you are not good on foot.

Budget Accommodations in Verona

The Hostello – This hostel is located a little outside the city center and comes with a shared lounge and garden. The property includes facilities such as a 24-hour front desk and shared kitchen, and every room comes with a desk, private bathroom, and air-conditioning.

Nuova Opera Rooms – This lovely guesthouse is located in the Borgo Trento area of Verona, which is a pleasant 20-minute stroll from the Arena. The eco-friendly place has a panoramic terrace view of the city and comes with elegantly decorated rooms. Each includes a private bathroom and air conditioning. 

Midrange Accommodations in Verona

B&B Santo Stefano – Located in the heart of Verona, B&B Santo Stefano offers some amazing river views only 120 meters away from Ponte Pietra. Every room comes with a private bathroom, air conditioning, and a fridge. There is the possibility to have breakfast each morning and also a bicycle rental service is available.

Enjoy Verona – A whole apartment to yourself in the center of Verona? Enjoy Verona provides all the needed amenities in their one-bedroom apartment and fully equipped kitchen. Close to the arena and many restaurants and bars, this place is the perfect base to explore the city of romance from.

Luxury Accommodations in Verona

Relais Balcone di Giulietta – At this beautiful place you will feel like stepping into a romantic movie yourself. Luxurious modern rooms with some authentic details give their rooms a glamorous feeling. This guesthouse offers air-conditioned rooms with all the needed facilities, some even with a city-view balcony. A hot tub and a bicycle rental service are available for guests. 

La Corte Di Giulietta – Unbelievable, but true, this bed & breakfast is just opposite Juliet’s Balcony with views over the courtyard. Their rooms look like they come straight out of the famous love tale with their wooden design furnishing. You can enjoy an Italian-style breakfast in your room.

Corte Realdi Suites Piazza Erbe – A more authentic stay you will not find, this guest house is set in a historic building in the center of Verona. The romantic designed rooms with balcony views overlook Piazza Delle Erbe.

Things to do in Verona in One Day

These days the town is mostly known as the decor for Shakespeare’s famous love story of Romeo & Juliet. Millions of tourists find their way to Verona each year to experience the city’s magic or maybe to find love themselves. Not only literature lovers but also history buffs and opera enthusiasts will fall in love with this Italian destination . Do you want to shop the latest Italian fashion trends or are you the ultimate foodie that wants to try out all that tasty Italian food? There is something for everyone in Verona!

Below we list all the top sights and things to do in Verona for a one-day trip . You can use our Verona travel guide as an inspiration and tailor it according to your personal interests. We were able to visit most of the sights below in one single day, except for the Giusti gardens and the Romeo & Juliet sights. Indeed you read that right, we decided to skip those, keep reading to find out why. Anyways it’s possible to explore all of Verona’s highlights in one day , although it might feel a bit rushed. You can easily spread everything over two days to see things at a slower pace.

Verona Arena 

We are starting right off with the iconic landmark of Verona, the ancient Roman Arena (or Arena di Verona ). No visit to Verona would be complete without visiting this architectural highlight. The arena is located right in the heart of the city on the lively Piazza Bra . The impressive Roman amphitheater was built in the year 30 AD, which makes it older than the Colosseum in Rome and it’s one of the best-preserved structures of its kind. The spectacular construction traces back to the end of the empire of Augustus and the beginning of Claudius’empire. In ancient times the arena was the center for “bread and plays” (or ludi ) for 30.000 Roman spectators. Gladiators would be the main attraction, fighting for their lives (think of the movie to get an idea).

TIP | Depending on the time of day the arena can have really long queues. With the Verona Card, you can skip the lines (VIP!). You can also join the following skip-the-line guided tour of Verona Arena to learn more about its history and the gladiator tales.

ENTRANCE TICKETS | Adults €10 (With the Verona Card you can enjoy free entrance & priority entrance).

OPENING HOURS | Mondays from 1.30 PM – 7.30 PM; Tuesday – Sunday from 8.30 AM – 7.30 PM (ticket office closes at 6.30 PM).

Arena Opera Festival during the summer

Unlike the one in Rome, this Colosseum is actually still functional today (no worries, not for gladiator fights anymore) and is the best-preserved Roman amphitheater in the world . During the summer months, you can attend one of the daily concerts or operas that are being held inside. The amphitheater has excellent acoustics thanks to its elliptical shape and can seat up to around 15.000 visitors. Enjoy one of the famous plays at the Arena such as Aida, Carmen, Nabucco, or Madama Butterfly, with an amazing historical backdrop.

Joining a performance makes up for quite an unforgettable travel memory and is definitely one of the best things to do in Verona. Even if you don’t intend on attending one of the operas, you can still walk by in the evening and catch some parts. Around the arena are parts of the stage sets stored and possible to see. These plays only run during summer, but the arena is open all year long to visit. For more information on the operas, their calendar, and tickets, check out GetYourGuide. Currently, you can save up to 10% if you book online !

The arena is located right in the middle of the main square of Verona, Piazza Bra . Even though the arena is the main showstopper here, the colorful square is also a beautiful sight to see with its bustling cafés & restaurants. While in Italy , one of the best things to do is to enjoy a coffee or Aperitivo on one of the many terraces around. It’s all about La Dolce Vita! However, as in most central squares, it’s usually better to avoid drinking and eating here, unless you are ok with paying high tourist prices for – let’s be honest – more mediocre cuisine.

Since this is the beating heart of the town, you can bet it gets crowded here during the day.  If you want to explore the piazza in a more serene way, come first thing in the morning or in the evening. The area is beautifully lit then and maybe you can even enjoy a hint of the opera from a distance.

Piazza Bra is home to some stunning monuments, that include the Roman Arena, Palazzo Barbieri, Portoni Della Bra, and the 17th-century Palazzo Della Gran Guardia. The whole area is fully pedestrian-free, so you can wander around freely admiring all its beauty without having to watch out for traffic.

Historic buildings on Piazza Bra

Palazzo Barbieri | When you glance over to the right from the arena you will spot Palazzo Barbieri. This beautiful neoclassical palace from the 19th century was designed by Giuseppe Barbieri. Today it serves as Verona’s municipality place or “Palazzo del Comune”.

Palazzo Della Gran Guardia | When we turn further clockwise on the square you will see the magnificent Palazzo Della Gran Guardia. The building was designed by Domenico Curtoni in the 17th century but was only completed mid the 19th century by Giuseppe Barbieri. Originally the palace was used as barracks during the revolution, now it’s a venue for events and art exhibitions.

Portoni Della Bra | Adjoining the Palazzo Della Gran Guardia is the beautiful 14th-century Portoni Della Bra. This medieval city gate with a clock in the middle used to be one of the entrances to the city, through which horse carriages arrived. Today the ancient gate still stands and instead is being used by modern-day cars.

Castello Vecchio

If you are a fan of historical & medieval activities such as castles, then Castello Vecchio is a place you shouldn’t miss. The former moated castle can be found on the west side of the city just outside the medieval city walls. Dating back to the Middle Ages under the rule of the famous Scaligeri family of Verona, Castello Vecchio was built as a defense fortress for the city. After the fall of the Scaligeri family, the castle was used by the Venetians merely as a weapons depot. 

During the French and Austrian rule, it became a barrack and suffered major damage during the Napoleon Wars and WWII bombings. Only in 1926 was the place restored in Gothic and Renaissance style by architect Carlo Scarpa.

Nowadays Castello Vecchio is a museum holding a huge collection of Veronese paintings from the Gothic period going all the way to the 17th century. The museum exhibits are mostly interesting for art lovers, but the whole building itself is quite exciting to visit. You are able to walk on the fortress walls and access the two guard towers which offer some nice elevated views of the city and its riverbank.

ENTRANCE FEE | €6 per person, free with the Verona Card

OPENING HOURS | From Tuesday – Sunday 10 AM – 6 PM (last entrance at 5.30 PM). Closed on Mondays.

Castel vecchio’s Ponte Scaligero

When you are exiting the museum, turn to your right and walk towards the Ponte Scaligero , the bridge right next to Castel Vecchio. The architecture of this fortified medieval bridge is quite striking and unique to any other bridge I have ever seen. The bridge was mainly built to be functional, less as an architectural masterpiece. Many of the historic buildings that were built at the time in Verona were made from red bricks, which has quite the contrast against its city landscape.

Take your time to stroll along the bridge, and jump on the elevated sidewalks to peep through the openings. From here you can enjoy some views of the Adige River as well as the green hills surrounding the city. You can also spot a wall of love locks at the entrance of the bridge. As the city of Romance, of course, this trend can be found here too.

Wander the streets of Centro Storico

Like in most Italian cities, walking through Verona feels like you ended up in a postcard or movie set. The historic center of Verona (or Centro Storico ) is like one big open-air museum and exploring its streets on foot is easily one of the best things to do on your one-day trip. Simply get lost in the many cute cobblestone alleyways, soak up the ambiance and the stunning medieval architecture that is surrounding you. No wonder the well-preserved Centro Storico has been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site. Verona is really a feast for the eyes and it’s hard to put your camera down. I absolutely fell in love with its photogenic balconies and window designs with those typical Italian shutters. 

TIP | Make a small detour towards Porta Leoni , one of the many ancient gates you can find all over town. The unique sight here is Verona Vecchia , an opening in the middle of the street giving you a view of the ancient ruins of Verona.

Piazza Della Erbe

Piazza Della Erbe is the main market square in the city and has been the central meeting place for locals since Roman times. The name literally means Square of Herbs and used to be the main forum of the settlement during the Roman Empire. Today you will find many important buildings surrounding the piazza, such as the Torre dei Lamberti, Casa Dei Giudici (or Judges Hall ), and the beautiful ornate frescoed Mazzanti Houses.

On the west side, there is the Baroque-style Palazzo Maffei, lushly decorated with statues of Greek gods such as Venus, Apollo, and Hercules. In front of the palazzo, there is a white marble column with a St. Mark Lion on the top, which is the symbol of the Republic of Venice. The main eyecatcher of the Piazza is the elegant fountain with a statue of Madonna Verona , which was built in the 14th century.

Not only is the square filled with little restaurants and cafés, but in the middle, there are many market stalls selling souvenirs & trinkets . This lively place is the perfect spot to get a refreshment or an Italian coffee to take a break. During the day this place is full-on busy & bustling. Walking around here gives you the ultimate feeling of an Italian scene in a movie, surrounded by these beautiful balconies and people enjoying the atmosphere.

Climb the Torre dei Lamberti

Towering over the Piazza Della Erbe you have the imposing Torre dei Lamberti , which is hard to miss. The 84m tall tower is one of the only remaining ones in the city today. It was originally built as a defense tower in 1171 by the Scaliger family. If you want to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city, climbing up the Torre dei Lamberti is a must. Once you are up you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Don’t be alarmed, for those who don’t feel like conquering the 368 steps, there is an elevator available to reach the top. (Please note that you will still need to walk the last two floors on foot).

From anywhere in the city you will be able to spot the medieval tower that dominates Verona’s skyline. After visiting Bologna , I do have to say that this tower was a bit disappointing view-wise compared to the Asinelli Tower. Has anybody else visited both? What’s your favorite?

ENTRY FEE | €8 – free with Verona Card (ticket includes entry to the Modern Art Gallery)

OPENING HOURS | Monday – Friday from 10 AM – 6 PM; Saturday, Sunday & on public holidays from 11 AM – 7 PM. (Last admission 45min before closing time)

Piazza Dei Signori

After visiting the tower, pass under the Arco Della Costa (arch) which will take you to the lovely Piazza Dei Signori . It’s definitely way less crowded here than its neighboring Piazza Delle Erbe but is flanked by some fascinating architectural structures. Again most of the buildings that can be found here are from the Scaligari period, such as the former city hall (or Loggia del Consiglio ), the palace of the government, and the Domus Nova. In the center of the square, you can admire a statue of the poet & writer Dante . The poet spent seven years in Verona after he was exiled from Florence and was taken in by the ruling Scaligari family.

FUN FACT | When passing under the Costa Arch, look up where you will see a whale’s rib dangling down. According to legend, the rib will fall on the first truly just person to pass beneath it. So far the rib has been going nowhere…

The Scaliger Tombs

Don’t turn back just yet, make sure to keep on walking a bit further from Piazza Dei Signori where you will find the Della Scala family tomb . The funerary monument was built in Gothic style for the noble family of Della Scala, also known as the Scaliger tombs. It’s the final resting place of five lords from the Scaliger family. This name has been mentioned already multiple times previously since they were an important ruling family in Verona during the 13th and 14th centuries.

The tombs themselves are really eye-catching to see and are almost a piece of art. Nonetheless, not many tourists find their way here, unless they join a tourist group. But it’s definitely worth stopping by! 

ENTRY FEE | €1 per person, free with the Verona Card

OPENING HOURS | Tuesday – Sunday from 10 AM – 1 PM and from 3 PM- 6 PM (closed on Mondays).

Casa di Giulietta and Juliet’s Balcony

The most famous attraction in Verona is without a doubt Juliet’s Balcony , known from the tragic love story Romeo & Juliet by William Shakespeare. There is a particular house in the city Casa di Giulietta that according to legend served as the inspiration for the legendary play. The house once belonged to a wealthy & prominent Veronese family, the Dal Cappello family. During the 13th century, this family was in a rivalry with the Montecchi family. I guess you can see the link.

It’s simply not possible to miss Casa di Giulietta since there is always a long queue in front of it. Also, Verona is not a huge city, so there is a big chance you will walk past this famous tourist spot. The inner courtyard is free to visit and not really big, therefore always fully crowded. Lining the walls of the courtyard you can spot thousands of notes and letters with declarations of love . There is an entry fee though if you want to play Juliet yourself on the balcony and visit the joined interior of the house. Keep in mind that the balcony was only built in the 20th century, so there is nothing historic about it, simply a photo opportunity created by Verona.

Why do so many people touch the Juliet statue?

There is also a bronze statue of Juliet inside the courtyard of the house, dating from 2014 replacing its original from 1969. The original can now be visited inside the museum’s atrium. You will notice that many people are eager to take a picture with it while holding Juliet’s right (often both) breast(s). You might wonder why… Apparently, it became a tradition over the years and is supposed to bring you luck in love touching her right breast . Since we (Moritz & I) already found each other (little cheeseballs that we are), we didn’t really feel the need to go and touch them.

Personally, we decided to skip visiting the infamous House of Juliet. We did pass by and got a glimpse of the balcony, Juliet’s statue, and the many hands touching her breasts. We simply didn’t have the patience or strength to go elbow-to-elbow with the hordes of tourists. To us, it’s just an overhyped attraction, but feel free to drop by and see for yourself what all the fuss is about.

ENTRY FEE | €6 per person, free entry with Verona Card. The inner courtyard is free to enter.

OPENING TIMES | From October till May: Tuesday – Sunday from 9 AM – 7 PM (Last admissions are at 6.30 PM), Closed on Mondays. From June til September: All days open from 9 AM – 7 PM

Romeo’s House

A short walk from Juliet’s house you can also find Romeo’s house. It’s not open to the public as it’s a private home, however many fans of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet flock to admire the building. The home is marked by a sign as well as an inscription on the gothic facade quoting “Oh! Where is Romeo? … I’m not myself. I’m not here. This isn’t Romeo – he’s somewhere else.“ (Act 1, Scene 1). 

Sample local cuisine

Italian cuisine is worldwide known for its mouthwatering pasta & pizzas, good wine, sweet desserts, and creamy gelato. A visit to Verona just wouldn’t be complete without indulging in all of the local delicacies . The Veneto region is mostly known for polenta, gnocchi & risotto.

One of the famous traditional dishes you have to try when in Verona is risotto all Amarone , which is made of Vialone Nano, a typical rice grain from Verona, and with Amarone wine (red wine). I know it doesn’t look super photogenic, but it’s absolutely delicious! You will find this risotto in many restaurants as it’s a traditional dish.

Another common Veneto dish is Pastissada de Caval, which is a horse meat stew. A local delicacy & specialty of Veronese cuisine. The horse meat is slowly cooked in wine together with onions, cloves, and carrots. You won’t find this in every restaurant, we tried it out at La Taverna di Via Stella and can only recommend it!

TIP | A fun way to learn more about Veronese cuisine is by joining a guided food tour of Verona. Here you get to sample a variety of specialties of the region.

Grab some gelato

You simply cannot visit Italy without sampling many of its gelato flavors . And after all that sightseeing, who doesn’t deserve a little sweet? You will probably encounter a Cremeria around every corner to get your daily gelato fix. However, in the meantime, we are both proclaimed gelato connoisseurs, and can absolutely advise L’Arte del Gelato & Gelateria La Romana Verona for some creamy pistachio!

Join a Gelato making class in Verona

Have you ever wanted to make Italian Ice cream yourself? Join the following gelato tour , where you will not only get to sample the best gelato, but a real Italian Chef will teach you how to make it from scratch. In the end, you will also receive a little recipe book so you can make gelato yourself at home.

Verona Cathedral (Complesso della Cattedrale Duomo)

The Verona Cathedral goes by many names, such as Complesso Della Cattedrale Duomo but also Cattedrale di Santa Maria Matricolare. Not to get too confused, you can find its location here . It’s located a bit out of the direction from the other sights, but well worth a visit if you are heading for Ponte Pietra. This interesting cathedral dates back to the 12 century and is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary . It’s one of the most sacred Catholic sites in the city and its facade features a mix of Romanesque, Renaissance, and Gothic style components. The cathedral actually comprises several buildings , which include the Canons’ church of Sant’ Elena, the Canons’ cloister, the chapter library, and the baptistery of San Giovanni in Fonte.

Inside you will find a series of different small chapels with beautiful frescoes and sculptures. It has some breathtaking Renaissance details, a giant golden organ, and arched ceilings. The Verona Cathedral is one of the oldest religious buildings in the city and each year it attracts thousands of visitors for worship.

ENTRANCE FEE | €3 per person, free with Verona card.

OPENING HOURS | From March till October: Monday – Saturday 10.30 AM – 5.30 PM, Sundays and religious holidays 1.30 PM – 5.30 PM. From November till February: Monday – Saturday 10.00 AM – 5.00 PM, Sundays and religious holidays 1.30 PM – 5.30 PM.

Stroll across the Ponte Pietra

This stunning bridge runs over the Adige River , connecting the Centro Storico with Teatro Romano and Castel San Pietro. The bridge’s history dates back to 100 BC and it’s the oldest & only remaining bridge from Roman times. If you want to reach the viewpoint of Castel San Pietro this is the bridge you will have to cross. The Ponte Pietro gives you some nice views of both sides of the River and this way you get to see the city from another perspective. Take your time to admire the buildings lining the river bank. Once you crossed the bridge, head west and find yourself a nice spot to sit by the water to enjoy the views.

Castel San pietro for spectacular views

Our next stop is Castel San Pietro , which you probably already spotted from afar on the hill on the other side of the river. On the top, there is a viewing platform that offers some amazing panoramic views of the old town of Verona . The best time of the day to visit Castel San Pietro for the views is sunset.

There are two ways to reach the top . If you still have some steps left at the end of the day you can take the staircase up the hill, Scalinata Castel S. Pietro , which goes by Teatro Romano . The hike is fairly easy and doesn’t take that long, a little over 10 minutes. The other way is taking the funicular (or cable car), which costs €2 for a roundtrip.

From the top, you will be rewarded with some incredible views of the curving river around the city of Verona with its terracotta-colored rooftops. The surrounding green hills with their many cypress trees give a beautiful contrast to the city landscape.

TIP | Do like the locals and bring some snacks like cheese or a panini with wine to enjoy some aperitivo for sunset.

Teatro Romano

On the way to or down from Castel San Pietro, you will pass by Teatro Romano (or Roman Theatre ) ruins. The oval-shaped Roman amphitheater is more than 2000 years old but surprisingly in good shape and spectacular to see. Just like the Verona Arena, this theatre used to host events, games, and gladiator fights . Over time though many religious and civil buildings were built over the ruins. It was only in the 19th century that the ruins were excavated by a rich Veronese merchant who bought the houses in the area. During the archeological diggings, the orchestra pit and stone seatings were uncovered.

Today you can also attend some open-air concerts and ballets in the Roman Theatre during the month of July. Next to the theater is the former convent of San Gerolamo which nowadays houses the Archaeological Museum. Here you can find much more information about these excavations, as well as many Roman artifacts such as sculptures and mosaics.

ENTRY FEE | €4,5 per person (Admission includes audioguide), Free entrance with the Verona Card

OPENING HOURS | Tuesday – Sunday from 10 AM – 6 PM (Last admissions are at 5.30 PM), Closed on Mondays. 

Relax in the Giardino Giusti

This activity might be a stretch on a one-day visit to Verona. Depending on your schedule and if you need a break from the old town, you should make a little detour to the tranquil Giusti Gardens . Spend some time in the afternoon relaxing in the shade away from the hustle & bustle of the city. They are said to be one of the most peaceful places in the city and even one of the prettiest in all of Italy. The gardens were originally planted in 1580 in typical Italian Renaissance garden art , which caught the eye of Goethe & Mozart. The gardens contain 8 different areas, each with its own unique design and decoration around a central fountain. Throughout the idyllic gardens, you will find many beautifully trimmed mazes, statues, and fountains to enjoy. From the pavilion, you can also enjoy some incredible views of the city. 

ENTRY FEE | €10 per person, €7 for Verona Card holders

OPENING TIMES | Monday – Sunday 9 AM – 7 PM (Last admission at 6 PM)

Enjoy an Aperol spritz or two

We end our one day in Verona in the true authentic Italian style by enjoying some Italian aperitivo . The tradition of Italian Apertivo is omnipresent in Verona and a typical thing to do before heading out for dinner. When asking a Veronese local they would say that it’s the most sacred time of the day! If that doesn’t sound like my kind of person! As you spend some time in the region you will quickly notice that Aperitivo is a tradition deeply embedded in Italian culture . It’s the combination of their love for good food and wine with spending time together at the end of a working day. 

One of the most beloved drinks to have is a good old Aperol Spritz , a colorful orange drink to cool off at the end of a full day of sightseeing. Together with some finger food and cozy background music, these are the ingredients for a perfect Veneto aperitivo. Find yourself at a cozy Osteria or Enoteca in one of the many sidestreets in the Old Town or on one of the buzzing piazzas. Catch the last sunrays, and unwind at the end of the day with the beautiful backdrop of the Old Town. If that doesn’t sound like the one perfect day in Verona?

We hope this One Day in Verona guide helped you out. You can show some ❤ and support for the blog and help us share more adventures! Our travels are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated. It allows us to keep writing helpful travel guides and gather information to make it easier for people to discover the world.

Pin it to Pinterest for later!

19 Amazing Things to do in Bologna | Italy Travel Guide

Cinque Terre Towns in Italy | A Complete Travel Guide

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Venice to Verona Day Trip: How to Spend One Day in Verona

Last Updated on February 8, 2024

by Daniella Lynn Theis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Envoking scenes from Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’, the Northern Italian city of Verona is one of the best places to travel to in the country. Packed with centuries of history, today the city is visited by thousands each year with many opting for a Venice to Verona day trip.

Many people visiting Venice focus solely on the city itself, rather than the surrounding Veneto region of Northern Italy in general. While Venice is a truly astonishing place to visit, it is definitely worth considering exploring the Veneto region.

My partner and I never planned to head to Verona originally. The reason we decided to leave Venice and visit Verona was that the city was suffering its highest Acqua Alta in fifty years . After being recommended to refrain from our planned day trip to Venice’s outer islands, we decided to opt for Verona instead…and I am so glad we did!

Table of Contents

Getting from Venice to Verona

How far is Verona from Venice? The good news is that Verona is only approximately an hour away from Venice and can be reached by car, bus, train, or through organised tours.

By Organised Tour

If all the independent planning is not for you, or you are looking for a more immersive experience, then a Verona tour from Venice might be something for you. These tours do not only offer organised transport but also include several extra pitstops so that you can really soak in the sights of Northern Italy.

Tours often are still run with small groups of people, which is especially great if you are a solo traveller looking to share your experience of one day in Verona with some people.

This full-day tour of Verona, the countryside, and Lake Garda Tour gives you the chance to explore Verona city centre at your leisure as well as enjoy stops at Lake Garda, Sirmione and a winery in Amarone. It’s also possible to book a similar private tour if you prefer to have your own transport.

If you are looking for a more wine-based experience, this organised day trip lets you wander the streets of Verona as well as allowing you to explore a Valpolicella winery and sample a selection of the famous, local Amarone red wine.

Venice’s Santa Lucia train station is in the area of Santa Croce (next to Cannaregio) and beside the Grand Canal. Even from neighbourhoods further away such as San Marco, you can walk to the train station within about half an hour. Otherwise, some vaporettos will go along the Grand Canal.

Several train companies and lines run between the two cities and trains are as frequent as five times per hour. The journey from Venice to Verona by train is very pleasant. Some of the trains take longer than others, but the average journey time is about one hour. Ticket prices can vary but are typically less expensive if booked in advance. View the latest schedules here .

The best thing is to check beforehand what time you are thinking of going and then check which provider offers the cheapest journey or – if money is not the issue – the best travel times for your day trip from Venice to Verona.

One thing to remember is that your train needs to be validated at one of the designated machines before you board the train. Otherwise, even if you purchased a ticket, you could be subject to a fine. Some tickets purchased online, however, are pre-validated. Just be sure to check the terms and conditions.

Once in Verona, you can either walk the 20 to 30 minutes needed from the train station to the centre, or you can take a bus. These buses leave just outside the main entrance of the train station and tickets can be purchased from the driver.

Buses offer a great (and cheap) way to get from one city to the other on your Venice to Verona day trip. FlixBus provides bus tickets and there are several other bus companies to choose from, as well. Buses run very frequently – often more than 10 times a day. View schedules here .

However, be sure to check where your bus is leaving from. Some of the coaches leave from Venice Tronchetto (an artificial island in the Venetian lagoon that is situated behind Venice’s train station) while others go from Venice Mestre (which is outside the main city of Venice and the main lagoon). 

The distance from Venice to Verona is only approximately 120km. It is therefore definitely possible to do your Verona day trip from Venice by car quite easily.

The drive can take about 60 to 90 minutes depending on traffic. However, if you are going by car, it is essential to remember that Italy’s roads have tolls. Likely you will have to plan an additional 10€ for tolls and around 5€ for an all-day parking ticket in Verona.

Verona’s inner city has a pedestrianised area through which only license holders can drive, so ensure to park beforehand to avoid fines!

If you’re planning on renting a car in Venice, there are plenty of options on Rentalcars.com which aggregates deals from many different providers.

Venice to Verona Day Trip Itinerary

There are plenty of things to do in Verona that can easily be accessed withing the confines of one day. The good news is that the inner city of Verona is very compact and most sights are within walking distance from one another.

There is the option to partake in a free walking tour should you be looking for a guided experience. There are also paid walking tours available if the timing of the free tours doesn’t work for you. However, should you want to discover the city at your own pace, here are some suggestions for stops to take.

Before I continue, I do want to mention that if you are a fan of cultural sites and museums, it is worth looking into a Verona Card – especially if you are planning to stay longer than one day.

The card offers free or reduced entry to the city leading museums, monuments and churches as well as letting you travel on the ATV city bus which is great if trying to reduce your overall Venice trip cost.

Roman Arena

You will be standing in Verona’s largest piazza – Piazza Bra. The Roman Arena is right in the centre of the piazza and is surrounded by several cafes, restaurants and museums. Stroll along the piazza and take in the city’s first charming vibes before visiting the Roman Arena.

The amphitheatre used to be outside the city’s walls in Roman times and has lasted for centuries as the city expanded around it. While the entertainment program is very different from that of the Roman era, the arena still functions as an entertainment venue today, and it is possible to see operas and plays there.

There is an entry fee for the arena, but it is worth it! Once you are inside, you will notice how well-preserved the arena is so that spending the entry fee feels worth it. The views from up top are pretty amazing, too. Standing in the arena, it is easy to imagine the role it played in the past.

The Verona Card gives you skip-the-line entry to the Roman Arena and it is also possible to take a guided tour which includes a skip-the-line ticket.

Casa di Giulietta & Casa di Romeo

Next to the Roman Arena, you will find signposts leading you towards the town centre and Romeo and Juliet’s house – or rather the houses that are said to have inspired the play.

We heard that one of the houses was actually built after the play was written, but nonetheless, if you are a fan of the tale, both houses are worth the stop.

What you will notice is that these places are very popular with tourists. We visited Verona off-season in November and Juliet’s house was still packed. It is noticeable that the sight has significance for lovers.

The walls are filled with names of loved ones – spread across the paper, on locks and lockets and anything else that enshrines the permanent gesture. Also, rumour has it that rubbing the breast of the statue of Juliet in front of ‘Juliet’s house’ brings good luck.

Should this not be something you fancy, or should you want to just explore a little more of the city, you are in luck in Verona. The city centre has plenty of beautiful hidden alleyways with some great places to eat, drink and shop. Our favourite spot was a rustic-looking bar/ restaurant near the Roman Arena called La Tradision , which served up some excellent local cuisine!

Explore the Historic Centre

The Piazza Delle Erbe is not far from Juliet’s house in the centre of Verona. This piazza is bustling, and it again is surrounded by some great bars and restaurants. Depending on when you plan to make your day trip to Verona, you might even see a Christmas market here!

Near the Piazza Delle Erbe, you will find some great architecture including the Torre dei Lamberti or the beautiful little church Chiesa di Santa Maria Antica. Walk along, and you will find more piazzas (albeit smaller than Piazza Delle Erbe) but just as impressive. One of the smaller piazzas houses a statue of the famous, Italian poet Dante.

We had no set plans as to how and where to walk around the inner city and just strolled along. Verona has a magical feel to it, and I am sure if you stroll along yourself from the main piazza, you will not be disappointed.

Teatro Romano & Castel San Pietro

Walking along the Adige River, you can gaze across the banks and get a glimpse of some of the great architecture that awaits on the other side. Cross over the Ponte Pietra, and you will be able to directly immerse yourself. You already got a glimpse of Verona’s Roman history when you visited the Roman Arena at the start of your trip.

The Roman theatre was built in Verona at about the same time as the Roman arena. If you walk up the steps, you will also find the archaeological museum, which is a great way to educate yourself about the city’s history. Do note that an entry fee is applicable again.

Behind the theatre, you will also find the Castel San Pietro. There is also the option to take the Funicolare di Castel San Pietro –  a short gondola ride –  up the mountain. Once you are on top of the hill, you will be rewarded with some absolutely breathtaking views of Verona – especially at sunset. Can you ask for a better end to your day trip?

Verona’s Culinary Scene

Okay, I already mentioned restaurants quite frequently in the other pitstops, but seriously: Do not end your time in Verona without eating some of its cuisine. Everything I ate in Verona was 100% delicious, and I wish I had known about all the local delights I could have tried beforehand.

A sweet dish I was recommended to try after our visit to Verona was Baci di Giulietta (Juliet’s Kiss) which are small cakes with chocolate filling, and they sound heavenly!

If you did eat along the way, why not kick back and sip an aperitivo or two at the Piazza Delle Erbe or the Piazza Bra before making your way back to Venice?

Have more time in Verona?

If you have 2 or 3 days in Verona or plan to see more of the region after your day trip, then there are definitely plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of my personal suggestions:

Watch a show at the Teatro Romana or the Roman Arena

Both these amazing places actually offer an extensive program of theatre plays, musicals and concerts. You can find more information about shows in the Roman Arena here.

Camp at Castel San Pietro

If you liked what you saw after taking a gondola ride up the mountain, it is possible to camp at this beautiful location. The Camping Castel San Pietro offers some fantastic views for when you wake up in the morning to explore Verona some more. 

Visit Lake Garda

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and is known for its beautiful lakeside towns and stunning scenery. The lake is only approximately 50km away from Verona and therefore provides an excellent chance for an additional day trip if you haven’t already visited it through the tour mentioned above.

This full-day tour from Verona is a great way to explore Lake Garda if you prefer not to go independently.

Visit Milan, Bologna or Padua

Verona’s location provides an excellent stepping stone to visit other cities in Northern Italy. Padua actually is an excellent option for an additional city to visit on or after your day trip as it is right between the two cities.

Other cities you could visit include Bologna , the seventh most populous city in Italy. It is only approximately 150km from Verona and can be reached by several forms of transport.

The famous city of Milan can also be reached by train within about an hour as it is about 160km away from Verona.  

Where to Stay in Venice

Riva del Vin Boutique Hotel – This boutique hotel is situated within a couple hundred metres of the iconic Rialto Bridge and it is the perfect place to stay for those looking for a bit of luxury and romance on their trip to Venice. They have a number of plush rooms available and a great breakfast included in the room rate.

Ca’ Angeli – This small hotel centrally located in the San Polo neighbourhood is a great option if your budget allows for a bit more than a hostel. There are a handful of clean and cosy rooms available, it’s within walking distance of most of Venice’s main attractions and there is breakfast included in the nightly rate.

Combo Venezia – This small hostel located in the Cannaregio neighbourhood is the ideal place to stay for budget and solo travellers. Locally owned and operated, they have both dorm beds and private rooms available and it is one of the highest-rated hostels in the city.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Venice hotels!

Hopefully, this itinerary has inspired you to spend one day in Verona (or maybe even more). I will definitely be returning again to try out all that food I missed out on and to top up on some Amarone wine.

Are you wondering what to do in Verona in one day? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Sorrento or Positano or Amalfi: Which One to Stay In?

The Perfect 3, 4 or 5 Day Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary

One Day in Bologna: A Day Trip from Florence

About Daniella Lynn Theis

Daniella is a writer for The World Was Here First. Based in in Glasgow, Scotland, she has lived in several different countries and is always on the hunt for adventures, trying to find even the most hidden secrets for any destination. In her spare time, she loves photography and finding new eateries and things to do in or around Glasgow.

this is soooo helpful thanks

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Spend One Day in Verona, Italy: A Perfect Itinerary

Ciao a tutti, travel lovers! I’m your host on this One Day in Verona tour . Let’s discover the top things to do and see in Verona, ensuring your one day in this enchanting city is filled with beauty and wonder.

Short on Time? Here’s Your Verona One Day Itinerary

I recommend reading through this entire article to make informed decisions. However, if you’re short on time, here’s a concise Verona itinerary to help you maximize your day.

• Start your day at the Arena di Verona and Piazza Bra.
• Visit Piazza delle Erbe, Torre dei Lamberti, and Piazza dei Signori.
• Enjoy a late lunch at a local eatery.
• Visit Juliet’s House.
• Visit the Castelvecchio Bridge and Museum.

Late Afternoon / Evening:

• Walk along Ponte Pietra before dinner with a view of the Adige River.

Keep reading for details on each of the recommended landmarks and discover the best things to do to create your perfect one day in Verona.

Best Things to Do in Verona in One Day

Embarking on a one-day journey through the city of Verona, you’ll uncover the city’s vibrant culture and rich history, nestled within its compact, walkable historic center.

Let’s delve into the landmarks that make up our Verona in one day itinerary.

Arena di Verona

Imagine stepping into the Arena di Verona, where the stones echo the grandeur of ancient Rome . This colossal amphitheater, built in the 1st century AD, stands as one of the best-preserved ancient structures of its kind.

As you enter, you’re walking on the same ground where gladiators once battled , drawing tens of thousands of spectators. Today, it’s a world-renowned venue for opera, hosting spectacular performances that attract visitors from around the globe.

The experience of watching an opera in this historical setting, under the starlit sky, is truly unparalleled. It blends the echoes of ancient Rome with the melodious strains of classical music.

Next, step into Piazza Bra, the largest piazza in Verona and the city’s bustling heart . Surrounded by picturesque buildings and lively cafés, this spacious square offers a perfect spot to pause and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

The Arena dominates the piazza, and its open space is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists.

Strolling through Piazza Bra, you can admire the elegant facades, savor a coffee at one of the many outdoor terraces, and take in the lively sights and sounds as the world goes by.

This square is not just a transit point but a lively hub of Verona’s social and cultural life, where the past and present blend seamlessly, offering a glimpse into the city’s lively character and charm.

Piazza delle Erbe

Piazza delle Erbe is the vibrant nucleus of Verona’s daily life, once the site of the Roman forum . As you wander through this bustling marketplace, you’re tracing the footsteps of centuries-old history.

Surrounded by medieval buildings and Renaissance facades, the square is adorned with colorful stalls selling everything from fresh produce to local souvenirs. The Madonna Verona Fountain stands at its center, an emblem of the city’s rich heritage.

The lively ambiance, the aroma of Italian cuisine, and the chatter of locals create an immersive cultural tapestry, making Piazza delle Erbe a must-visit to experience the essence of Veronese life.

Torre dei Lamberti

Just a stone’s throw from Piazza delle Erbe rises the Torre dei Lamberti, offering breathtaking views of Verona .

Climbing this 84-meter-high tower, the highest in Verona, built in the 12th century, rewards you with a panoramic vista that captures the city’s red rooftops, winding streets, and historical landmarks.

As you climb to the top of the tower, the bells, Marangona and Rengo, tell tales of when they signaled the start and end of the working day and called citizens in times of danger.

The tower’s majestic presence and the sweeping views from its summit make it a key highlight for anyone wishing to grasp the city’s medieval magnificence.

Suggested Read : Italian City with a Famous Tower: Top 12 to Visit

Piazza dei Signori

A short walk from Piazza delle Erbe leads you to Piazza dei Signori, a serene and aristocratic square enveloped by historic buildings and palazzos.

Known as the living room of Verona, this square is quieter, offering a more intimate glimpse into the city’s noble past.

Flanked by statues of renowned figures like Dante Alighieri , Piazza dei Signori offers captivating sights that testify to Verona’s influential role in Italian history and culture.

The architecture here speaks of power and elegance, from the Domus Nova to the Loggia del Consiglio Each structure narrates a chapter of Verona’s storied legacy, inviting you to delve deeper into its historical and cultural depths.

Suggested Read : 20 Famous Italian Statues: Must-See Sculptures in Italy

Juliet’s House

As you approach Juliet’s House or Casa di Giulietta, you’re stepping into a world immortalized by Shakespeare’s tragic romance, “ Romeo and Juliet .” Nestled in the heart of Verona, this 13th-century building attracts those drawn to the legend of the star-crossed lovers.

The focal point is the famous balcony, where Romeo is said to have wooed Juliet. Although fictional, this scene has captivated the hearts of visitors worldwide. Inside, the house is furnished in the style of the period, offering a glimpse into the domestic life of Verona’s past.

The courtyard, with Juliet’s bronze statue , is a place of pilgrimage for lovers seeking good fortune in romance. Tradition has it that touching the right breast of Juliet’s statue brings luck in love.

The walls leading to the house, covered in love notes and graffiti, witness the timeless allure of the romantic tale “Romeo and Juliet.”

Suggested Read : How to Say I Love You in Italian

Castelvecchio Bridge and Museum

The Castelvecchio Bridge, also known as the Scaliger Bridge, is a remarkable example of medieval fortified architecture stretching across the Adige River in Verona.

Built in the 14th century by the Scaligeri family, this bridge boasts robust battlements and arches that have withstood time and conflict. It offers a striking entrance to the Castelvecchio Museum.

Crossing the bridge and walking along the river banks, you’re walking on history , where knights and commoners once tread, providing a tangible link to the city’s past.

Adjacent to the bridge, the Castelvecchio Museum is housed in a grand castle, once the residence and fortress of the Scaligeri lords of Verona.

The museum’s collections are a treasure trove of Veronese art , including paintings, sculptures, ancient weapons, and artifacts that narrate the city’s history and artistic heritage.

As you explore the rooms and corridors, the museum offers insights into the region’s history and stunning views of the river and cityscape, making it a captivating experience for history enthusiasts and art lovers alike.

River Adige and the Many Bridges

Wandering along the banks of the River Adige , you’re enveloped in the romantic essence of Verona, with its serene waters reflecting the city’s timeless charm.

This river of Italy , coursing through the city of Verona, is flanked by numerous historical bridges, each telling a story of a bygone era.

These bridges, like the stone Ponte Pietra and the robust Ponte Scaligero (Castelvecchio Bridge), offer breathtaking views and a sense of continuity between past and present.

The beauty of the river’s path, with its peaceful ambiance and scenic vistas, makes for an idyllic stroll, allowing you to savor Verona’s picturesque landscape and architectural marvels.

Verona Cathedral and Basilica di Santa Anastasia

The Verona Cathedral Santa Maria Matricolare and the Basilica di Santa Anastasia stand out for their architectural splendor and artistic treasures.

The Cathedral, with its intricate façade and harmonious blend of Romanesque and Gothic elements , houses remarkable artworks and a serene atmosphere.

Nearby, the Basilica di Santa Anastasia, the largest church in Verona, showcases stunning frescoes and a majestic interior. Both churches offer a peaceful retreat and a feast for the eyes, highlighting the city’s religious and artistic legacy.

Teatro Romano (Roman Theater)

The Roman Theater of Verona, distinct from the more famous Arena, is an ancient marvel that speaks volumes of the city’s historical depth.

Situated on the banks of the Adige River, this theater, dating back to the 1st century BC, was once a vibrant hub of Roman entertainment . Today, it is a picturesque venue for performances, especially during the summer festivals.

Exploring the Roman Theater allows you to connect with the ancient cultural life of Verona, offering a unique perspective on the city’s long-standing tradition of theatrical arts.

Porta Nuova

Porta Nuova, not as frequently spotlighted in standard itineraries, is a significant gateway to Verona’s historic heart.

This grand archway, part of the city’s ancient fortifications, marks a transition from the bustling modern streets to the old-world charm that lies within.

Its impressive structure and historical significance make it a noteworthy landmark. It offers a glimpse into the city’s fortified past and welcomes visitors to explore the rich tapestry of Verona’s heritage.

Is Verona Worth Visiting?

Absolutely yes! Verona, one of the most popular cities in Italy, offers an enchanting travel experience with its rich history and vibrant culture. As a certified UNESCO World Heritage Site , the city’s storied past and well-preserved architecture make for a spectacular visit.

Spectacular Attractions

Attractions such as the Arena di Verona, a Roman amphitheater with a massive presence, captivate with both their scale and preservation. Imagine stepping back in time as you explore this grand structure, a testament to Verona’s Roman roots.

Romantic City

For romantics , the city is a haven. Beyond the allure of the alleged homes of Shakespeare’s Juliet and Romeo, Verona’s cobbled streets and tranquil river views create a storybook atmosphere for lovebirds and literature enthusiasts alike.

Verona’s Hidden Gems

Hidden gems abound in Verona’s less traveled lanes. You’ll get to taste and see the city beyond its popular sites, from quaint boutiques to local osterias. Keep an eye out for artisanal shops showcasing the craftsmanship Verona’s locals take great pride in.

How to Get to Verona

Thanks to its well-connected transportation network, reaching Verona is straightforward. Whether by train, car, or coach, you’ll find an option that suits your travel preferences and starting location, like Milan or Venice.

Traveling to Verona by train is convenient, with the city’s main station, Verona Porta Nuova , serving as a hub for domestic and international routes.

If you’re coming from major Italian cities such as Milan (approx. 1.5-hour journey) or Venice (approx. 1-hour journey), you’ll find frequent direct trains that can get you to the train station in Verona quickly and with minimal hassle. 

Trenitalia and Italo offer various services, including high-speed options. Check the schedule and reserve your train tickets for the best rates and seating availability.

Suggested Read : How to Travel by Train in Italy: A Guide to Easy Rides

If you prefer the flexibility of driving, Verona is well-connected by road and situated within the Veneto region of Northern Italy.

It can be accessed via the A4 motorway, part of the larger European route E70. This connects the city to  Milan (about 160 km west) and Venice (about 115 km east). Give yourself ample time to navigate when driving, as Italian motorways can be busy, especially during peak travel times.

Remember that parking in the city can be limited , so you should look for accommodation that offers parking or research car parks before your arrival.

Coaches are a cost-effective way to reach Verona, especially if traveling from nearby cities or other parts of Europe.

Various bus companies operate services to Verona, with the main bus station located near Verona Porta Nuova train station, ensuring smooth transfers to  public transport if necessary. When selecting a coach service, consider the number of stops, total journey time, and onboard amenities.

Booking in advance often provides better deals, and it’s always a good idea to check for any travel tips specific to the coach company you’re traveling with.

When flying into Verona, your destination will be the Verona Villafranca Airport , also known as Valerio Catullo Airport. It is located approximately 10 km (about 6 miles) from the city center.

The Verona Card

The Verona Card is an invaluable tool for exploring Verona in one day. This convenient pass grants you access to the major attractions in this historical city.

The primary benefit of utilizing the Verona Card is the money you will save, as it covers entry fees for numerous sites.

The Verona Card comes in two types:

• A 24-hour card
• A 48-hour card

The prices vary depending on the season, with discounts available for children and seniors.

Accessibility

With the Verona card, you can enjoy  skip-the-line tickets , bypassing the long queues at popular landmarks.

What is Included?

Here’s a concise overview of what’s included in the Verona Card :

• Free Entry : You gain free admission to many of the city’s top attractions, including the Verona Arena, Juliet’s House, Castelvecchio Museum, Verona Cathedral, and more.
• Ease of Use : After purchasing the card, you can activate it at the first site you visit. The card is then valid for the duration you’ve selected.
• Savings : Besides entry benefits, the Verona card may offer discounts at selected shops and restaurants, enhancing your travel budget.
• Transport : Some versions of the card also include discounts on public transport, which increases mobility within the city and allows you to visit more sites.

Refer to this website for information on where to buy the Verona Card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning your Verona in a day trip can be effortless with these answers to common queries.

What are the top attractions in Verona that you can visit for a limited time?

Your limited time in Verona should be spent visiting the UNESCO-listed City with its ancient Roman arena, Juliet’s House, and Piazza delle Erbe.

Can I explore the main highlights of Verona in just one day?

With a well-planned itinerary, starting early and focusing on the city’s historic center, you can cover the main highlights, such as the Verona Arena and Castelvecchio.

What is the best itinerary for a day trip to Verona from nearby cities?

A day trip to Verona typically involves exploring Roman monuments in the morning, strolling across medieval bridges in the afternoon, and savoring local cuisine in the Piazza Bra in the evening.

How can I make the most of a short visit to Verona?

Maximize your time by sticking to the compact city center, buying the Verona Card, or joining a guided tour to quickly access and learn about the key sights.

What day of the week is recommended for visiting Verona to avoid crowds?

Midweek visits, preferably Tuesdays or Wednesdays, are advised to enjoy Verona with fewer crowds, providing a more pleasant and less rushed experience.

Similar Posts

Best Spas in Italy: Unwind at Top Luxury Retreats

Weather in Italy in August: Your Essential Travel Guide

10 Best Things to See and Do in Naples, Italy

Renting a Car in Bologna: Your Essential Guide

Best Pink Sand Beaches in Italy and Around the World: A Guide to Their Unique Beauty

30 Fun Facts About Naples, Italy: Explore Napoli’s Charm

Outside Suburbia Family

Luxury | Wellness | Art | Experiential Family Travel & Lifestyle

How to spend One day in Verona & the best things to do

Posted on August 6, 2019 February 27, 2024 Author Priya Leave a comment

Known as “Little Rome”, Verona has a rich cultural past but is mostly known for Shakespeare’s famous love story, Romeo and Juliet.  Can you see Verona in a day? You could easily spend 3 or 4 days seeing all the best things to do and also exploring the nearby wineries but if you are short on time this is how to spend one day in Verona .

Verona was founded sometime in the 1st century BC, which is evidenced by the prominent Roman remains that you see in the city.  These include the amphitheater, the Arco dei Gavi, the Porta dei Borsari, and the ancient theater on the left bank of the Adige river. We stopped in Verona during our fall trip to Northern Italy .

Wondering where is verona?  Located between Venice and Lake Garda it a perfect for a stop to explore the city, see all the romantic sightseeing spots in Verona, and check out the Christmas markets(if you are visiting during the winter months). 

WHAT IS IN THIS POST

One day in Verona Itinerary, Things to do and places to see

Start with a visit juliet’s house (casa di giulietta).

We arrived in Verona city in the evening and the first thing Ms. Peachy wanted to visit was Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta).  It is also very close to the city center and closed when we got there but we took a peek from outside the gates.

More photos of Juliet’s House and the lesser-known Romeo’s house  here

Located in a small courtyard, the iconic balcony is unmistakable as it protrudes from the large 14th-century house.  Probably one of the most famous attractions in Verona, the house is said to have inspired Shakespeare, even though there’s no evidence that he ever visited Verona. But that doesn’t stop thousands of hopeless romantics from visiting the house to rub on the bronze statue of Juliet for luck and love!

Verona Cathedral

Start the morning with a visit to Verona Cathedral officially called Duomo Cattedrale di Santa Maria Matricolare. Located on Piazza Vescovado, between two bridges next to a prominent bend on the southern bank of the Adige river, it is another site you can’t miss.  It is a gorgeous Romanesque cathedral with a striped façade. Don’t miss the beautiful wall paintings and preserved artwork by Titian, the most prominent member of the 16th-century Venetian school.

Basilica Di Santa Anastasia

Next walk over about 5 minutes to the beautiful church that tops the list of things to see in Verona – a 13th-century Basilica di Santa Anastasia. The biggest attraction in Sant’Anastasia is the famous fresco by Pisanello, “St. George & the Princess”. Its gorgeous red Veronese marble pillars and the 72-meter bell tower are equally impressive.

  Walk on the Stone bridge (Ponte Pietra)

The arched Ponte Pietra (pietra means stone in Italian) is the oldest bridge in Verona, built during the years of Roman rule. It has been damaged and rebuilt more than once due to floods and war. Two of its arches (the white stone arches in the photo) are of original Roman material. The brick arches date from a reconstruction during the 1500s. 

Ponte Pietra links the old part of Verona, between the Duomo and the church of Sant’Anastasia on the city side with the Roman Theater, Castel San Pietro, and the churches of Santo Stefano and San Georgio on the far bank. Walk on the bridge for the beautiful views of towers, church domes of the city of Verona. It is one of the top Verona sightseeing spots.

Dante’s Square (Piazza Dei Signori)

Make your way back to Piazza dei Signori, which is one of the most beautiful squares in Verona.  The square is also sometimes called Dante’s Square because of the large statue of Dante Alighieri in the center of the square erected in 1865.  The large public square is between the Torre dei Lamberti and Arche Scaligeri is called called the Lords Square in English . 

When the Scaglieri family ruled Verona, this square was the heart of the city and a major gathering place.  Magnificent 14th-century arches and beautiful old palaces surrounding the space – buildings include the council Lodge or Loggia del Consiglio (which dates back to 1476), the Palazzo del Podesta (home of the famous Della Scalla family) among others.

Torre dei Lamberti , the tallest medieval tower in Verona. You can actually climb the 83-meter tall tower and enjoy amazing, sweeping views of the city, just like the noble members of the Lamberti family when the tower was constructed in 1172. If you don’t feel like you can climb the 368 stairs to the top, worry not – there’s also an elevator inside.

Arche Scaligeri is a burial site with 5 gorgeous Gothic monuments behind a wrought iron gate.

Piazza Delle Erbe

Piazza Delle Erbe, is another Verona must-see sightseeing spot, literally less than 100 meters west of the Piazza Dei Signori.   It’s a beautiful gate with a real whalebone hanging in the arch.  Exotic items and rare spices were sold here in the square. Today, Piazza delle Erbe still serves as Verona’s Market Square, with a produce and flower market held there every day. There is a gorgeous statue of Madonna Verona in the center that dates back to 380 AD.  You can find many stores and cafes here. This is a place to get a bite to eat or do some souvenir shopping during your one day in Verona.

Visit the ancient Arena

Verona’s ancient Arena is a gorgeous Roman amphitheater, where you can experience opera the way it’s meant to be experienced.  It is capable of accommodating 30,000 people who came from far and wide to attend theatrical performances and major sports events of the time.  Built in the 1st century AD it has also hosted live concerts by Ms. Peachy’s favorite One Direction… Whitney Houston, Paul McCartney and other stars. Arena di Verona is a gorgeous, immaculately preserved Roman amphitheater located on a Piazza Bra along with a monument to Vittorio Emanuele II.

It shouldn’t take you more than 15 to 20 minutes to explore. It warrants a stop on your one day in Verona itinerary! Then walk down the charming street lined with other remarkable historic buildings such as the beautiful Chiesa di San Nicolò all’Arena, whose front resembles classical Greek temples.

  Stop for lunch at Piazza Bra

With so many great choices you can’t go wrong with a lunch stop anywhere in one of the squares in Verona but since we are on Piazza Bra, Ristorante Olivo Pizzeria is where we stopped.

See Porta Borsari

Located at the end of Corso di Porta Borsari, is an ancient Roman gate that once marked the southern entrance into Verona. It’s a beautiful example of Roman taste for theatrical scenes, even in civil buildings. During Roman times, you would have to enter the city of Verona through these gates after paying your their tolls.

Visit Castelvecchio Museum and Bridge

After lunch make your way to the well-preserved medieval castle overlooking the river, with tall red-brick walls and monumental turrets at each of the corners. Built by the Della Scala family under Cangrande II in 1356, the castle primarily served as a military structure. The interior houses a museum with a vast collection of medieval sculptures, paintings, and ancient weapons.

The castle was built using distinct red-colored bricks and has an adjoining bridge that connects the two sides of the city divided by the Adige River. This bridge is also referred to as Ponte Scaligero and is reminiscent of castle fortifications. Once you’ve crossed the bridge, stroll along the river until you reach the next bridge over, Ponte della Vittoria. You can walk along the bridge to head back to Verona and explore if you have more time.

Walk down the Lungo Adige (the banks of the River Adige)

If you have more time walk along the banks of the River Adige and enjoy the beautiful hills and colors of Verona.  It was a beautiful fall day when we were there and loved the splashes of yellow everywhere.  Maybe it was the romance in the air, the ancient structures or those yellow walls, I fell in love with Verona in a day!

Some Tours you might like

Enjoy a traditional Veronese Dinner

Visit a traditional Osteria under one of the old porticoes. Every Italian region has its own culinary heritage, and Verona is no exception.  Traditional dishes in Verona include the Baccalà  – salted cod served with polenta and pasta e fagioli (pasta with beans).  We had local risotto, rich bowls of stew with polenta, and soft potato gnocchi.

Explore the Christmas Markets (if you are visiting during Christmas season)

Christmas Markets in Italy are popular both with the locals and visitors from Europe and the UK. The markets known in Italian as Mercatino di Natale are not as numerous or on the same grand scale as the network of Christmas markets in Germany.  Nevertheless, a visit to an Italian Holiday Market is one to remember, if you are in during November or December months you don’t want to miss Christmas Market in Verona. It is usually held at  Piazza dei Signori.  Photos from our Italian Christmas Market visit are here.

Best time to visit Verona

Summer is always a popular time to visit anywhere in Italy.  June to August is a great time to visit Verona when you can experience the Verona Arena Opera.  They have such spectacular evening performances in the Roman era amphitheater during the Opera Season.  We visited Verona during the beginning of winter, in November and the crowds were less and the weather was still great.  And a bonus we got to visit the Christmas markets.

We rented a car and drove from Venice to Milan but you can take a train easily between the destinations. Here is a link to the rail system in Italy .

Where to stay in Verona

If you find yourself in Verona, I highly recommend a stay at the Escalus Luxury Suites.  Named after the character Escalus, the Prince of Verona, in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Escalus Luxury Suites Hotel is an all-suite hotel located steps from the Roman amphitheater in the center of Verona.  Each apartment suite at Escalus Luxury Suites Hotel is chic and elegant with colorful accents and luxury linens.

The suite was spacious and accommodated our family of four and we woke up to a scrumptious breakfast in the morning before setting out to explore the city of love.  We spent two nights in this boutique hotel part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World Collection. See here for other family friendly hotels in Verona.

I hope I answered your questions about what to see in Verona, and that Verona is worth visiting… and you find our rough guide to One day in Verona helpful in planning your trip to this Italian City that is ofter missed!

You might also like:  Why Northern Italy in November is a great idea How to see  Beautiful Bergamo in a day Getting lost in Venice Why you must visit Lake Garda Other posts from Italy

PIN IT FOR LATER

Note:  This post may contain affiliate links, partnership or sponsored content. If you purchase an item via one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra charge to you. But as always images and opinions are our own. For more information on our affiliates and privacy policy at Outside Suburbia see here .

CONNECT WITH US

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Want to make your trips memorable?

Join our newsletter and get the inside scoop on cool destinations, earth-friendly hotels, luxury stays, easy adventures, and authentic travel inspiration!

Email address:

The 23 Best Things to Do in Verona (+ Day Trips)

As the home of the most famous pair of star-crossed lovers of all time–not to mention the home of plenty of tasty food, beautiful architecture, and slightly-more-reputable-than-Shakespeare history–there are plenty of fun things to do in Verona.

It sounds silly to say, given our Italy obsession, but Verona took us a bit by surprise: often overlooked in favor of its famous neighbors Venice and Milan, Verona deserves more than a passing glance between the more common stops on Italy itineraries.

The city is colorful and delightful, and as we worked our way through the best things to do in Verona, one thought kept coming back to us: this is a city that we would love to stay in for a month or more.

Looking to discover the charms of Verona for yourself? Go well beyond Romeo and Juliet with this (thorough) list of the best things to do in Verona!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Table of Contents

The 23 Best Things to Do in Verona

Epic day trips from verona, should you buy the verona card, getting around verona, how many days in verona, where to stay in verona, indulge in some romeo & juliet tourism..

We might as well start with the obvious.

If there’s one thing that Verona is known for, it’s for being the setting of Romeo & Juliet.

Though the play is clearly one of Shakespeare’s tragedies (and a pretty depressing one at that), the supposed romance that is central to the plot has taken on a lore all its own–a lore that still lives on in Verona today, through plenty of historical sights said to be locations of the legend as well as Romeo & Juliet themed tours .

But, because this is Italy and not literature class, it’s worth mentioning that while Shakespeare’s telling is obviously what propelled the story global icon status, the tale of Romeo e Giulietta predates Shakespeare’s play–in fact, legend has it that there was a true example of star-crossed lovers in Verona in the 13th century.

Though the details of their story have mostly been lost to time, writers continued to borrow the legend for poems and stories, and eventually, the legend hit the big time when it caught the eye of William Shakespeare.

Looking for Romeo and Juliet inspired things to do in Verona? Here’s where to look.

If you’re a lover of all things Shakespeare, consider discovering the history behind the legend with a Romeo & Juliet tour !

Juliet’s House

The theoretical home of the Capulet family, usually simply referred to as “Juliet’s house” is the most well-known feature of Romeo & Juliet tourism in Verona.

Juliet’s Tomb

Located in the San Francesco al Corso monastery, Juliet’s (empty) tomb sits in the crypt, where visitors can come and observe where the final moments of Shakespeare’s play are thought to take place.

The monastery is now a museum, and if you’re feeling particularly morbid, you can even get married there!

Romeo’s House

Though the home that is thought to belong to the Montague family is now private, Romeo & Juliet fans still flock to the building to admire the home from the outside. As it is just a short walk from the Capulet home, it’s an easy addition when you’re deciding what to do in Verona!

If you’re a big Shakespeare fan and simply have to get inside, the ground floor of the home is now a restaurant.

Crypt of the Basilica Maggiore

While the Basilica Maggiore is beautiful and worth visiting in its own right, today it is best known for its crypt.

The crypt is thought to be where Romeo & Juliet got married and is open to visitors hoping to take a peek at the real-life location of the legendary wedding!

Make your way through Piazza Bra.

As Verona’s largest piazza and the home of its arena, Piazza Bra is an excellent and popular place to start working through the best things to do in Verona.

Definitely visit and check out the highlights–but, like with most central piazzas that now serve as tourism centers, it’s best to avoid eating and drinking here, as you’ll likely pay inflated prices for substandard cuisine.

Verona Arena

Two thousand years is a long time to entertain a city–but the Verona Arena has risen to the challenge.

Not only can you tour this arena and admire its long history dating back to the Roman Empire during the day, concerts and plays often fill the arena at night.

Today, the arena can still hold a whopping 22,000 visitors, down from its original volume of 30,000.

Palazzo Barbieri

While visiting Piazza Bra, be sure to glance over and pay attention to the Palazzo Barbieri–it is a beautiful 19th-century palace that now serves as Verona’s town hall.

Portoni della Bra

This beautiful 14th-century gate sits on the edge of Piazza Bra and is a clear combination of the old and the new: this ancient gate still stands above a road, which these days holds modern cars instead of horses!

Stroll across the Ponte Pietra.

The oldest bridge in Verona (it dates back to 100 BC!) also ended up being one of my favorite spots in the city, because it was just so beautiful everywhere we looked!

Down the Adige River? Gorgeous view. The buildings lining the river, bursting with spring flowers? Gorgeous view. Looking back toward the Castel San Pietro in the hills above the bridge? Also a gorgeous view!

And sure, having great weather and visiting during the spring helped, but whenever you visit, don’t miss visiting the Ponte Pietra when you’re in Verona!

Soak in the views from the Castel San Pietro.

The lawn of the Castel San Pietro is easily the most famous viewpoint in Verona: from here the Adige River, the cities many bridges and towers, and many terracotta rooftops are all visible.

We spent far longer than we intended up here, perched on the walls and admiring the view–and if you’re looking for a great place for a picnic in Verona, this is it.

If you only have time for a few of the very best things to do in Verona, make sure that a visit to Castel San Pietro is one of them.

Go whitewater rafting.

Before arriving in Verona, it had never occurred to me to go whitewater rafting through a city in Italy.

As soon as we arrived and saw the rafts dotting the Adige River, though, I regretted not having time to book a trip.

Whitewater rafting through Verona sounds like a fantastic adventure, and it’s at the top of our list of things to do in Verona on our next visit.

You can combine rafting & biking with this fun adventure tour in Verona!

Check out the Teatro Romano ruins.

When walking up to Castel San Pietro, be sure to leave enough time to explore the nearby Roman Theatre ruins!

Not to be confused with the Verona Arena, this 2,000-year-old theatre is beautiful and in remarkably good shape for its age.

Eat some risotto.

Every city in Italy has its iconic dishes, and in Verona, the best-known among them is risotto.

This creamy rice dish is very tasty, and tasting some is an absolute must on your list of things to do in Verona!

Visit Piazza delle Erbe.

Piazza Bra may be the biggest square in Verona, but Piazza delle Erbe is arguably just as well known. Often known as Market Square, Piazza delle Erbe is regularly overflowing with market stalls selling everything from touristy trinkets to fruit and is almost always bustling and busy.

Whether you drop by when the market is hopping or at a quieter moment when the stalls are shut down and the large space of the piazza stretches out in front of you, be sure to spend a few moments sitting in the shade and watching the city go by in Piazza delle Erbe.

Climb the Torre dei Lamberti.

Verona’s tallest tower, the Torre dei Lamberti, dominates one side of the Piazza delle Erbe and boasts some stunning views of both the square and of Verona!

Originally built in the 12th century (though it was expanded in later years), the Torre dei Lamberti is a fantastic viewpoint, and the climb up is easily one of the best things to do in Verona.

If stairs aren’t your thing, there is an elevator you can take up as well–though keep in mind you’ll still have to climb a few flights of stairs from where the elevator drops you off in order to reach the observation deck.

Try your hand at a cooking class.

Taking a cooking class in Italy is always a treat!

In Verona, consider taking a class based around local specialties: think risotto, bigoli pasta, and pandoro cakes.

Like anywhere else in Italy, if you add a cooking class to your list of things to do in Verona, you’re sure to walk away with a very full stomach and plenty of fond memories!

Wander the streets of Centro Storico.

Verona’s historical center is not only the location of most of the best things to do in Verona, it’s a sight worth exploring in its own right.

Colorful buildings, beautiful storefronts, gorgeous shutters, and narrow cobblestone streets all greet you in Centro Storico–especially when you step off of the best-known thoroughfares to spend a little time exploring the small back streets of the neighborhood!

Relax in the Giusti Gardens.

Originally planted in 1580, the Giusti Gardens are said to be one of the most peaceful places in Verona–and one of the prettiest gardens in all of Italy.

Add the Giusti Gardens to your list of things to do in Verona and spend some time relaxing in the shade, wandering past the flowers, or even to trying your hand at the hedge maze located in the garden.

Pay a visit to Castello Vecchio & its bridge.

Dating back to the Middle Ages and the time of the Scaliger family, Castello Vecchio is a castle in the most traditional of senses: it was built with defense, not beauty, in mind.

Today, a museum holding everything from paintings to bells to weapons is located in the castle.

Go see the Arco dei Gavi.

Dating back to the Romans themselves, this arch has had a long and busy life.

It first served as the entrance to Via Postumia, which led between Rome and Verona. Later, it had another life in the Middle Ages as a gate to the city, when Verona was walled.

Eventually, the arch was removed to the Arena until the rebuilding that took place in 1932–that rebuilt arch, made with the same stones as the original, can be viewed today next door to Castello Vecchio!

Duck into the Verona Cathedral.

Boasting a more opulent interior than many Italian cathedrals, the 12th-century Verona Cathedral is definitely worth a step inside.

Be sure to look up–the artwork above the altar is absolutely beautiful!

Check out the Scaliger tombs.

Intricate and eye-catching, the tombs of the Scaliger family are an easy way to add an interesting stop on your list of things to do in Verona.

The Scaliger family ruled Verona in the 13th and 14th centuries, and their tombs are one way that they made sure they wouldn’t be forgotten anytime soon.

Learn some history at the Piazza dei Signori.

Just a few short steps from the busy Piazza delle Erbe sits the Piazza dei Signori: far quieter than its neighbor, Piazza dei Signori is the perfect place to relax and admire Verona’s beautiful architecture in a quieter setting.

Be sure to check out the Dante statue in the middle of the square!

Want to see the best of Verona? Consider joining a walking tour of the city !

Though Verona is a captivating city, if you have more than a few days in the area, consider taking a day trip outside of Verona, as well!

Verona’s convenient location in southern Veneto makes it a great spot to use as a base for day trips–here are some of the best ones to add to your list of the best things to do in Verona.

Easily one of the most popular day trips from Verona, Lake Garda is close by, easy to reach, and an utterly delightful escape from city life.

Consider taking a stroll through one of the small villages on the lake, hiking to a viewpoint, or even just spending a day relaxing on the beach!

Want to get a taste of Venice without committing yourself to the crowds and prices?

Consider taking a day trip to Venice from Verona! With one day in the city, you can condense down a typical Venice itinerary and have a wonderful time wandering through the maze of canals and bridges, check out St. Mark’s Square (and bell tower!), and even squeeze in a gondola ride if you deem the steep price worth the bucket list experience.

The Valpolicella Wine Region

Just east of Lake Garda you can find the rolling hills and delightful vineyards of the Valpolicella Wine Region!

Escape the city for the day to enjoy some time at vineyards instead–just be sure to either book a tour or bring along a driver willing to say no to the tasty wine!

Book your tour of the Valpolicella Wine Region today!

We believe that one day is the absolutely perfect amount of time to dedicate to Milan during an Italy trip–and luckily, it makes an easy day trip from Verona! Admire the stunning rooftop of Milan’s famous Duomo, check out the Castello Sforzesco, and consider paying a visit to Da Vinci’s The Last Supper!

The Madonna della Corona Chapel

An adorable 16th-century chapel built into the side of a cliff: the Madonna della Corona Chapel is one of those places you simply have to see to believe, and it certainly makes for a unique day trip from Verona!

Despite the relatively short distance, you’ll likely need a car to take a day trip to Bologna from Verona–but it is worth the drive.

As Italy’s foodie capital (as well as the capital of the Emilia Romagna region), Bologna is a place to come to eat!

One day in Bologna is best spent eating everything in sight (a food tour is highly recommended), and then spending your remaining time burning off the excess calories by climbing up gorgeous viewpoints like the Asinelli Tower.

If you have some extra time on your hands in Bologna, also consider going on a walk to find the hidden medieval canals of the city–you have to know where to look, but they are beautiful once you find them!

The Verona Card is very inexpensive compared to many city cards and comes with the benefits of skip-the-line tickets for most major sights like the Verona Arena, Castelvecchio, and Torre dei Lamberti, as well as access to Verona’s city bus system.

If you’re planning on hitting most of the major things to do in Verona, definitely consider purchasing the Verona Card to save time and money during your trip!

Check prices & buy the Verona Card today!

Centro Storico and the neighborhoods surrounding it are fairly walkable, though we did find that attractions were further apart than in extremely compact Italian cities like Florence, Venice, and Bologna.

We walked everywhere in Verona, with the exception of taking the city bus to the train station when we arrived in and left the city.

However, if you prefer not to walk long distances or book a hotel more than a short walk outside of the Centro Storico, you may end up using the bus system more.

You’ll also likely be heading to the train station if you take any day trips out of Verona (many regional buses leave from there as well).

You can purchase tickets onboard the city buses, however, you’ll pay a premium as opposed to purchasing tickets in advance–so try to get your hands on some tickets before your journey.

If you choose to purchase a Verona Card, rides on the city bus are included for the duration of the card’s validity.

Verona is a beautiful and laid-back city that lends itself to mornings spent meandering side streets and long afternoons at outdoor cafes–in other words, it would be hard to spend too much time in Verona if you’re looking for a quiet Italian getaway!

If you have limited time and are hoping to hit the highlights of the city, we’d recommend at least two days to check out the best things to do in Verona. If you only have one day, it’s still definitely worth visiting Verona, but you’ll likely have to cut some stops from your itinerary.

If you have three or more days to spend in the city, start looking at adding some day trips to your list of things to do in Verona!

There’s no shortage of great places to stay in Verona–here are a few excellent, well-reviewed and well-located picks to consider.

Hotel Gardenia — Hotel Gardenia offers clean and comfortable rooms, a popular included breakfast, good reviews, and a location near a bus stop to reach the center of Verona. The catch? For budget prices, you’ll need to break out that bus pass regularly–Hotel Gardenia (nor most hotels in its price range) are within walking distance of Centro Storico.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Gardenia!

Relais Empire — With a fantastic location just a short walk from Piazza Bra, beautifully decorated rooms, and incredibly good reviews, it’s hard to imagine a better place to stay in Verona on a midrange budget than the Relais Empire!

Check rates & book your stay at the Relais Empire!

Hotel Milano & Spa — Want to spend your time in Verona in the lap of luxury? Consider a stay at the Hotel Milano, where spa services and a jacuzzi overlooking the Verona Arena are just a few of the amenities. Located in the heart of Verona and boasting near-perfect reviews, you couldn’t ask for a better spot to relax in Verona.

Check rates & book your stay at the Hotel Milano & Spa!

[convertkit form=828904]

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

4 thoughts on “The 23 Best Things to Do in Verona (+ Day Trips)”

The Romeo and Juliet tour sounds so interesting! Would love to do that!

Thanks, Juan!

Walking around Verona is the best thing morning and night time. Make sure not to miss the Scaliger Castle of Villafranca next time you pay a visit to Verona. Enjoy your travels!

Thanks, Andrea! We’ll add it to the list. :-)

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

A Solo Woman Traveling

Boutique Travel Guides & All-Female Luxury Tours

The Complete Day Trip to Verona Itinerary & Guide + Map

Let me take you on a day trip to one of my favorite Italian cities, VERONA! I’ve been to this picturesque town twice in the last few years!

It is one of the easiest places to reach from nearby destinations such as Milan, Florence, and Bologna!

Depending on where you are in Northern Italy, Verona is less than 2 hours away by train or car.

Human-written content, by me, and nearly all original images, unless stated. Posts could have affiliate links to help offset the cost of maintaining this blog. When you click on a link, we receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy and Advertiser Disclosure for more info.

Where is Verona Located & How to Get Here?

Verona, Italy is located in the Veneto Region of Northern Italy . It sits on the banks of the Adige River between Milan and Venice.

Verona does have airport, and could be a great place to start your trip if you plan to explore more of the Vento region.

If you are starting in nearby Italian cites, below is a quick look at how you can get to Verona.

➡️ From Milan: Travel to Verona via train from Milan is approximately 2 hours. Venice is even closer! If you are in Venice you can reach Verona via train in 1 hour and 15 minutes!

➡️ From Bologna: Verona from Bologna is just under one hour by train !

➡️ From Florence: Another popular route is traveling from Florence to Verona the journey via train is 2 hours.

Once you arrive at the train station Verona Porta Nuova , you go outside and find many public buses running every 9 minutes or so that go into the old town.

I downloaded the official Bus App for Verona before I arrived and looked up what bus would take me into the old town.

Alternatively, you can just walk from the station, it should take you about 20 minutes to reach the city center.

📲 Quick Tip: Subscribe to my newsletter for tips about Italy and grab my Google Map with all this post’s locations!

❤︎ Quick Tip: The best way to save money in Verona is by getting the Verona Card ! You will have free entrance to some of the most popular sites as well as free use of public transit!

What is Verona Famous For?

When planning a trip to Italy , you might be overwhelmed by the many sites each city offers. In Verona, you might have heard it’s the home of Romeo and Juliet !

Quite possibly the most famous love story of all time, written by William Shakespeare. But is that all there is to Verona?

Absolutely not! The city of Verona is a Unesco World Heritage site and one of the most magical villages in Northern Italy.

Verona is also home to the famous Roman amphitheater, the Arena di Verona , which hosts a variety of concerts and other events throughout the year.

As well as some of the most celebrated Roman monuments including Castelvecchio and Piazza delle Erbe.

We will explore all Verona has to offer for your trip further down the post.

The Best Day Trip to Verona Itinerary

Verona is fairly small , so seeing a good chunk of the city in just one day is possible! You will want to be strategic like I was and possibly join a day tour .

In my humble opinion, a day trip to Verona is better than a day trip to Florence . Verona is a bit more intimate and far less crowded than Florence .

So if you are trying to decide whether Verona is worth visiting, I hope this helped.

PRO TIP: If you want to cover as much ground as possible wear the most comfortable shoes you have!

Morning in Verona

Start the morning in Verona by having a traditional Italian breakfast comprised of sweets! Visit Caffe Borsari and fall in love with the pastries!

After stuffing your face here, it is time to walk to the most famous balcony in the world. You guessed it, Juliet’s balcony! Casa di Giulietta is just a few blocks away from Caffe Borsari.

If you want to go inside the house and step out on the balcony yourself you must get tickets . All the tours I found didn’t include the admission ticket to Juliet’s House.

GOOD TO KNOW: Don’t fret if the lines are too long for you to visit the interior of the house. It wasn’t worth waiting for in my opinion.

Also, I should mention that the Verona Card includes access to Juliet’s house and balcony among a list of other famous landmarks.

Afternoon in Verona

After spending the morning eating pastry and exploring Juliet’s house it’s time to move on to some of Verona’s most famous Piazzas!

Piazza delle Erbe, located in the center of the city is the heart of Verona. It is here where locals and tourists can come together for a bite to eat and aperitif.

It is here in Piazza delle Erbe where the Madonna Verona Fountain can be found, as well as many other monuments.

Make time to climb the tall tower of Torre dei Lamberti aka, the tower of love!

There is an excellent viewpoint of 360 degrees of Verona! (Tickets to the tower are included with the Verona Card ! )

Meet at the Aread di Verona to learn about what took place here on February 13th, 1278! Then you will move on to the Sinagoga di Verona to learn of what happened to a Jewish family during WWII.

Moving on to the Piazza delle Erbe to learn of Medieval life and the cruelties that took place in the square!

Pass by the site where the ruler of Verona was murdered in 1277 , then on to the Scala family tombs, and finishing at the site of the 2 star crossed lovers!

After you work up an appetite climbing the tower, it’s time for lunch!

Check out Yard Restaurant for a classic Italian menu served in a sleek and industrial-style restaurant. The pasta here is heaven!

If you saved room for dessert why not get some gelato on your walk to Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore ?

The fastest route from Piazza delle Erbe is a 15-minute walk. But for a more scenic route, you can cross the Ponte della Vittoria bridge and Adige river reaching your destination in 20 minutes.

Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore was famously set for the marriage of Romeo and Juliet. There are beautiful buildings and neighborhoods to explore.

Hang out here for a while admiring the scenery and have a rest before heading off to the next stop.

Evening in Verona

Once you have explored all the great things to see at Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore, it is time to check out the Castel San Pietro !

The castle San Pietro has the best views of the city! The castle opening times are:

Summer opening hours (April-October): open every day 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Winter opening hours (November-March): open every day 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

The ticket office closes 15 minutes before the closing time. Closed on December 25 and January 1.

Be sure and time your visit to watch the incredible sunset.

From Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore to the Funicolare di Castel San Pietro , an incline lift, it is a 35-minute walk. Once you arrive at the Funicular you can ride it to the top for 2€ oneway or 3€ roundtrip. I like to ride the lift up, and then leisurely walk down.

At the top, you will find there is a small snack cafe and place selling drinks. I would save your appetite and eat somewhere else after your visit.

After leaving the castle, a great restaurant for dinner is Ristorante Antica Torretta – Verona centro storico. You will find a delightful ambiance and incredible food. Bon appetite!

I hope you enjoyed this complete itinerary for your one day in Verona!

Top Guided Tours to Consider For One Day in Verona

• Best for Morning: Historic 2-hour walking tour
• Best for Afternoon: Shakespeare Tour
• Best for Evening: dark history tour of Verona !

❤︎ This tour is perfect for anyone making a day trip to Verona as it still leaves a lot of time to explore.

Is Verona Safe for Solo Female Travel?

Verona is a very safe city to visit as a solo female. I had no issues walking around and taking public transit by myself.

If you are worried about getting lonely traveling solo to Verona, I get it. But because the city has so much to do and explore, I didn’t get lonely once!

I tend to avoid beach holidays as I find those are the places where I tend to feel bored and a bit lonely.

Once you visit for yourself, you will see that Verona is like no other Italian city.

Its charm and charisma will lure you in right away. The smell of marinara sauce will intoxicate you!

Verona is far less crowded than most cities, especially if you are coming from Florence. You are free to really enjoy this city on your own terms.

I visited in August and it surprised me that there weren’t more people lining the streets.

Thoughts on Solo Travel in Italy

Visiting somewhere romantic by yourself doesn’t need to be sad. If you believe in the law of attraction, you know you should be surrounding yourself with the things you want.

Changing your mindset to a celebration and enjoy-life mode will most certainly bring you true joy. Promise!

These moments you create for yourself now tell the universe you love yourself and are ready for love.

Now once you arrive, you might get so carried away by all the beauty around that you may forget to visit some important sites.

The best part of doing this day trip from Verona is that it can all be seen in one day!

If you have extra time, you might want to consider staying the night. I would highly recommend looking into the hotels I will list below.

Accommodations In Verona

You can certainly just make a day trip to Verona. However, you can’t go wrong with choosing to stay longer in lovely Verona.

My top priority for hotels is finding one in a central area that is both stylish and charming.

Below is a list that entails my suggestions for the best places to stay solo in the city of love .

• Hotel Milano & Spa
• La Maison De Charme
• Hotel Accademia
• Arte Nel Centro

Ideally, you want to stay 2 nights in Verona, but can easily see all the main attractions in one day. If you visit for the day be sure to plan out your itinerary well to ensure you see all the hot spots!

Verona is a very safe place to visit for solo female travelers! I have felt very safe walking alone in Verona. Taking public transport was very easy by myself.

The best time to visit Verona is in the summer months. Even though visiting Verona in winter is still lovely, the summer is better. The weather is better for walking around and exploring. The major tourist attractions also stay open later in the summer months which is better if you are visiting for just a day.

Verona is a great place for solo travel! It is a very safe place to visit, and there is so much you can see on foot. Verona is also well connected by public transit making it very easy to get around and travel to the next destination!

I hope whatever Northern Italy itinerary you create you found helpful information in this post!

Ready to Explore

More of italy.

🫶 Did you enjoy this article? Help fellow travelers and share this guide with the buttons below!

Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

Related Posts

Are Solo Trips to Greece Safe For Women? The Truth From Female Travelers

If you are wondering “is Greece safe for solo female travellers” you’ve come to the right place. I have been taking solo trips to Greece for the past 10 years! It’s definitely a safe place for women to travel. In 2023, I moved and found a new home in Athens, a place where I’ve always…

Copenhagen 3-Day Itinerary For Solo Traveler’s + Map

Three days alone in Copenhagen will go by in the blink of an eye, so you want a well-thought-out itinerary. Copenhagen has so much to see from the famous Nyhavn Harbor, historic Tivoli Gardens, and the infamous Freetown Christiania. And without proper planning, you could miss something! While 3 three days in Copenhagen may never…

Ultimate Guide For a Safe Solo Trip to Amsterdam + Map

So you are thinking of doing a solo trip to Amsterdam? Right on, Amsterdam is awesome. But is the city safe? An important question to ask for sure. Let me give you some assurance, YES! Amsterdam is safe. Take it from me, someone who’d spend hours searching “Is Amsterdam safe for solo female travelers?” reading…

The 5 Reasons & Life-Changing Benefits of Traveling Alone

Traveling alone is a life-changing step towards achieving inner confidence and strength. Once I started traveling, my world began to open up, and what I wanted for myself began to change rapidly. With each trip I took, I learned something new, and my life goals adjusted. I want to share my story and talk about…

The Top 5 Concerns For Solo Female Travelers

So you are planning on traveling solo? Hi, I’m Melissa, a single woman traveling alone for over a decade now. I’m very familiar with the questions should you be asking yourself about traveling by yourself. This whole site is a dedicated resource and guide to all things solo female travel. Once you declare your adventurous…

How To Spend 3 Days in Belfast Solo + Map

Looking for ways to spend 3 days in Belfast solo? More and more women are traveling to Belfast solo, and I was one of them! I had only planned on visiting Belfast for one day, but I loved it so much I stayed for three! Belfast itself is pretty small, so if you don’t have…

Verona sounds like such an amazing and romantic city! Thanks for sharing!

I didn’t know there was a Roman Amphitheater in Verona! I’ll have to add that to my list of things to do when I get there. Thanks!

Super enjoyed all your Solo Travel Inspiration articles! Have only ever travelled solo and don’t know how to do so otherwise – so glad to have a sister on board that train! 😀

Oh romeo, oh romeo! One day I will visit Italy. One day. ::::sigh::::

Traveling in big cities can be overwhelming but it’s good to know Verona is a great place to travel solo to! I would actually prefer it over big cities in Italy like Rome!

I love Verona! It’s such an adorable Italian town. Juliets statue cracks me up. I agree with you about how cool it is seeing the balcony as well!

In this small, cozy town, the passions of Romeo and Juliet blazed, in many respects it was to them that the sights of Verona owe their world fame.

Comments are closed.

What are you looking for?

• Budget Travel
• Solo Travel
• Travel Tips
• Travel Resources
• Female Travel
• Photography
• Netherlands
• Destinations

One Day in Verona: The Perfect Itinerary

Are you heading to Verona for a day? Well here’s everything you need to know to make the most out of 24 hours in one of the most romantic cities in Italy.

When solo backpacking through Italy, Verona wasn’t initially on my radar. With just 7 days to explore Northern Italy , I had to be very efficient with my time. Unforutnly, this meant there was very little room for spontaneity. But sometimes, fate has its own plans.

After discovering everything Sirmione had to offer , I planned to spend a few days in Bologna . However, it wasn’t long before I had a slight mishap. Missing a crucial announcement from the bus driver, I ended up missing my stop and thus my train to Bologna. Lesson learned: always stay alert on public transportation!

You can imagine my slight panic when the bus steamed past my stop. But, as mistakes are a part of travelling, you’ve got to take these things in your stride. And after a quick Google, I realised I was heading for a pretty special destination: the city of Verona.

Seizing the opportunity, I decided to spend the day exploring its enchanting streets. I postponed my stay in Bologna and embraced the serendipity that brought me to this magical city.

Refined from my impromptu excursion, this guide aims to help you explore the very best of Verona in just one day. I have recommendations for dining, must-see attractions, and budget-saving tips. So, without further ado, let’s explore the charming streets of Verona.

Off to Get Lost  is reader-supported. Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, I will receive an affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Is One Day in Verona Enough Time?

While a single day in Verona may seem rushed, it’s entirely feasible to experience the essence of the city within this timeframe. Verona’s compact size and pedestrian-friendly layout make it easy to navigate. You can easily visit key attractions like Juliet’s House, the Roman Arena, and Castelvecchio in just one day. Plus, its location means that you can easily visit Verona on day trips from cities such as Bologna , Milan, or Venice.

That said, Verona offers a wealth of experiences beyond its main sights. While a day trip will certainly give you a taste of the city’s charm, those with the flexibility to extend their stay will find ample opportunities to explore at a more relaxed pace.

At the end of this pst, I’ve rounded up the top places to stay in Verona for anyone who wants to do just that! Ultimately, whether one day in Verona suffices depends on your travel preferences and available time.

Also Read : Perfect Florence 2 Day Itinerary

How to Get to Verona

Verona, as one of the largest cities in northeastern Italy, is well connected with most major cities. How you decide to travel to Verona depends on your preferred mode of transportation and the type of trip you’re planning. Here, I’ve outlined the top four ways to reach this charming city:

I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again, Italy is one of the best countries for train travel. Verona Porta Nuova is the city’s main railway station and a major hub in Northern Italy. It is well connected to other major cities such as Venice, Miland, Florence, and Rome.

If you’re travelling internationally, you can also get trains from destinations such as Munich, Vienna and Zurich.

When I travelled around Italy, I used Trainline to book all my train tickets. Whilst Italy has a great train travel network, their ticket system can be quite confusing as each train company has a different ticket system. With Trainline , you can easily compare different train companies, finding the best time and price for you.

If you’re travelling from nearby, getting the bus to Verona might be the best option. Buses regularly run from nearby towns and cities such as Sirmione in Lake Garda and Venice.

Long-distance bus services also operate between Verona and other major Italian cities and European destinations. As buses tend to be cheaper, they’re a great option for anyone travelling on a budget .

However, as you’re only spending a day in Verona, bear in mind how much longer buses take. I found buses tended to be quite unreliable, especially the local services travelling between the smaller towns. You might have to wait a while for a service, wasting precious exploration time.

With local services, you can simply buy your ticket on board. However, for longer distances, I would recommend using Omio . You can easily find services running between cities and book your ticket online, securing your seat in advance.

Another great way to get to Verona is by car. It sits on major roads in Italy, making it an easy journey to take.

Your only issue with driving is parking. If you decide to stay the night in Verona, try to look for a hotel with parking included. However, if you’re visiting solely for the day, there are parking lots available such as the Parking in Pizza Cittadella. This lot is in a great location close to Piazza Brà, the largest and most popular Piazza in Verona.

If you’re looking to rent a car whilst in Italy, check out Discover Cars . They’re a great comparison website that will help you find the best deal for your car rental. It’s a great option if you’re flying in and want to collect a car from the airport.

Whilst I wouldn’t recommend flying to Verona for a day trip (the carbon footprint is simply not worth it) it’s a great first destination if you’re continuing to travel around Italy. Whilst I flew into Bergamo and spent a day there before moving on, there are airports close to Verona.

Verona’s airport, Verona Villafranca Airport (or Valerio Catullo Airport), is about 10km southwest of the city with transfers to the city centre. The airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it an accessible option from various destinations.

When trying to find the best deal for flights , I like to use Skyscanner . It is my favourite comparison site for finding the best deals, and you can easily filter the options to find a flight that suits your needs.

Budget Saving Tip: The Verona Card

The best budget-saving tip I have for you is to invest in the Verona Card . Believe me, it’s worth it. There are two options available, from 24 hours to 48. Obviously, for this itinerary, you will only need the 24-hour card, which costs around €20, depending on when you buy it. If you decide to do everything on this itinerary, that’s a saving of over €30 . Pretty great, right?

With this card, you will get free entry to 15 of the major museums and monuments in Verona such as Juliet’s Balcony, Verona Arena, and the Museo di Castelvecchio.

You can purchase the Verona Card from the tourist centre in the city, or book in advance online here. Be aware that the ticket will only give you entrance to each attraction once, but for a day trip, that should be perfectly fine!

When should you not buy the Verona Card? If you’re visiting on the first Sunday of the month from November to March, you might not want to buy the Verona Card. On these days, entrance to public museums is just €1, making the card pretty useless.

To kick off your day in Verona on the right note, it’s essential to fuel up with a satisfying breakfast. Fortunately, the city centre is dotted with charming bakeries offering an array of delectable Italian treats.

If you’re looking for a recommendation, make your way to Elk Bakery . Open seven days a week from 7 am, this cosy spot boasts an impressive brunch menu featuring an assortment of breakfast delights, including salmon pancakes and avocado toast. However, their true standout is undoubtedly their bagels – a culinary experience that’s bound to set the tone for a fantastic day ahead.

Address | Via IV Novembre 1A

Opening Hours | 7 am – 9 pm

Cost | Between €8-15

Castelvecchio Museum

For the first stop on the itinerary, head south down the Adige River towards the Castelvecchio Museum. On your way, you’ll pass the impressive Arco dei Gavi, an ancient archway built by a Roman family as a privately funded monument and see some of Verona’s beautiful bridges such as the Ponte della Vittoria and the Ponte Scaligero.

Nestled within a medieval castle, the Castelvecchio Museum stands as a testament to Verona’s rich history and cultural heritage. The building itself is a sight to behold, its architectural grandeur further accentuated by a meticulous restoration in 1959. Inside, you’ll discover 29 exhibition halls brimming with treasures – from Medieval and Renaissance sculptures to picture galleries and ancient artefacts.

With collections spanning from medieval to modern times, the Castelvecchio Museum offers a captivating journey through Verona’s cultural evolution, making it an indispensable stop for any visitor eager to delve into the city’s storied past.

Address | Corso Castelvecchio, 2, 37121

Opening Hours | 10 am – 6 pm, last entrance at 5.15 pm

Cost | €14 for 25+, €7 for EU citizens 18-24, €1 for 17 and under. Free with the Verona Card.

Piazza Brà, Verona’s largest square, has a vibrant energy and serves as the bustling heart of the city. Adorned with charming cafes and restaurants, it offers the perfect setting to stop for a refreshing coffee or some delicious gelato. As you take in the lively atmosphere, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a diverse mix of locals and tourists, providing ample opportunities for some people-watching.

This expansive square is also home to several significant landmarks, including the imposing Palazzo della Gran Guardia, the elegant Palazzo Malfatti, and the iconic statue of Vittorio Emanuelle II. Moreover, it serves as a gateway to our next destination: the Verona Arena.

Verona Arena

Verona Arena stands as a remarkable testament to the city’s rich history, and I was truly taken aback by its grandeur upon seeing it for the first time. Perhaps because I did little to no research before coming here, I was unaware of the presence of such an extraordinary piece of ancient architecture in Verona.

Dating back to 30 AD, this Roman amphitheatre continues to inspire awe to this day. Renowned as one of the best-preserved examples of its kind, the Verona Arena serves as a magnificent venue for large-scale opera performances and various events. With an astounding capacity of 22,000 spectators spread across its 44 levels, the Arena offers an unparalleled experience steeped in history and culture.

Given its early closure, I’ve scheduled a visit to the Arena early in the day. However, if your visit coincides with an evening performance, consider rearranging your itinerary to experience the Arena in its full splendour. For a truly immersive experience, I highly recommend this tour that includes a seat at the Opera. Starting at 5:40 pm, this tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Verona followed by an unforgettable night of operatic magic under the stars.

Address | P.za Brà, 1, 37121

Opening Hours | 9 am – 3 pm, last entrance at 2.30 pm. Closed on Mondays.

Cost | €17 for 25+, €8 for EU citizens 18-24, €1 for 17 and under. Free with the Verona Card.

Also Read: One Day in Sirmione, Lake Garda

Casa di Giulietta (Juliet’s House)

Juliet’s House stands as one of Verona’s most iconic landmarks, steeped in both medieval history and Shakespearean romance. Believed to be the residence of the Dal Cappello family, whose name bears resemblance to Juliet’s family name, the Capulets, this charming medieval palace has become intertwined with the tragic tale of Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers.

A glance at the picturesque pink façade, adorned with exposed brickwork and a quaint stone balcony, effortlessly evokes that romantic allure. However, its fame also attracts throngs of tourists.

During peak seasons, Juliet’s House is typically overrun with visitors. In my opinion, dedicating precious time to explore the interior might not be the best use of your limited time in Verona. Instead, take a moment to admire the exterior, snap a photo to capture its beauty, and then continue your exploration of the city.

Address | Via Cappello, 23, 37121

Opening Hours | 9 am – 7 pm, last entrance at 6.30 pm. Closed on Mondays.

Cost | €12 for 25+, €3 for 18-24, free for 17 and under. Free with the Verona Card.

By now, you might be getting peckish, making it the perfect time to pause and refuel amidst your busy day. With an abundance of cafes scattered throughout Verona, you’re bound to discover something to satisfy your cravings. However, if you’re longing for a taste of authentic Italian bread, Focacceria La Figaccia is a must-visit destination.

This delightful sandwich shop specializes in crafting mouthwatering sandwiches bursting with flavour. Prepared on fluffy focaccia bread, each sandwich boasts a delectable array of fillings, ranging from savoury sliced meats to creamy cheeses and crisp salads.

Address | Via Daniele Manin 4/A, 37122

Opening Hours | 11.30 am – 4 pm, 6.30 pm – 9.30 pm.

Cost | €3-6

Torre dei Lamberti

One of my favourite things to do when I travel to a new city is see it from above. There’s nothing quite like seeing the streets you’ve been exploring from a different perspective. In Verona, one of the best places to do this is the Torre dei Lamberti.

Dating back to the 12th century, the Torre dei Lamberti is a medieval tower constructed by the Lamberti family. Its historical significance is further underscored by the presence of two iconic bells: the Rengo, used to rally citizens to arms, and the Marangona, which chimed the hours of the day.

Standing tall at 83 meters, the tower offers an impressive panoramic vista of Verona and its picturesque surroundings. While ascending its 368 steps to the summit promises a rewarding adventure, don’t worry if you prefer a more leisurely ascent. There’s an elevator available to whisk you to the top. From here, you’ll get incredible 360 views of Verona and the surrounding mountains.

Address | Via della Costa, 1, 37121

Opening Hours | 10 am – 6 pm Monday to Friday, 11 am to 7 pm Saturday to Sunday. Last admission 45 minutes before closing.

Cost | €6 full, €4.50 reduced, free for under 7s and with the Verona Card. Lift costs €1 for Verona Card holders.

Piazza delle Erbe

Just beneath the Torre dei Lamberti is the lively Piazza delle Erbe. Once the bustling forum of the Roman Empire, it remains a vibrant hub of activity today. Wander among the market stalls offering fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs, immersing yourself in the lively ambience. Alternatively, take a moment to relax at one of the outdoor cafes, basking in the charm of this historic square.

Regarded as one of the most picturesque piazzas in Verona, a visit to Piazza delle Erbe is certainly worth your time. Whether you’re browsing the stalls or simply admiring the architectural splendour, the vibrant energy of this square promises to leave a lasting impression.

Scaliger Tombs

The Scaliger Tombs stand as a testament to the grandeur and influence of the Scaliger family, Verona’s rulers during the Middle Ages from the 13th to the late 14th century. These Gothic funerary monuments are marvels of intricate architecture, adorned with exquisite carvings and elaborate canopies that speak to the family’s wealth and power.

Comprising five main tombs, each dedicated to a different member of the Scaliger dynasty, these monuments are steeped in history and symbolism. Among them, the Tomb of Cangrande I della Scala stands out for its elaborate design, featuring sculptures depicting the deceased ruler on horseback.

While the tombs are only accessible between June and September, you can admire the exterior from the street year-round. Even from the outside, the impressive craftsmanship and historical significance of these monuments are evident, offering visitors a glimpse into Verona’s rich past.

Address | Via Santa Maria Antica, 4

Opening Hours | Open from June to September, 10 am – 1 pm and 2 pm – 6 pm. Last admission 15 minutes before closing. Closed Mondays.

Cost | €1. Free with the Verona Card.

Basilica di Santa Anastasia

Continuing our exploration of Verona’s Gothic architecture, our next stop is the Basilica di Santa Anastasia. Dating back to the 13th century, this grand church boasts a facade adorned with intricate details and sculptures, exemplifying the artistry of its time.

As one of Verona’s largest churches, the Basilica di Santa Anastasia offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s religious heritage. Step inside to discover a breathtaking interior featuring vaulted ceilings, majestic columns, and walls adorned with impressive frescoes. However, the true highlight awaits in the form of the stunning altarpiece, a masterpiece of Renaissance art crafted by the renowned artist Pisanello.

The Basilica di Santa Anastasia stands as a testament to Verona’s rich cultural and artistic legacy, inviting visitors to marvel at its beauty and immerse themselves in its history.

Address | Piazza S.Anastasia, 37121

Opening Hours | 10 am – 5 pm Monday to Friday, 9.30 am – 6 pm on Saturdays, 1 – 5.30 pm on Sundays.

Cost | €3, free for children under 11 and with the Verona Card.

Sunset at the Piazzale Castel San Pietro

A visit to Piazzale Castel San Pietro at sunset promises an unforgettable experience in Verona. Situated atop a hill on the eastern bank of the Adige River, this panoramic terrace offers sweeping views of the city’s skyline, showcasing iconic landmarks such as the Roman Arena and the charming red-tiled roofs of the historic centre.

For photography enthusiasts, the golden hour at Piazzale Castel San Pietro presents an ideal opportunity to capture Verona’s beauty in its most enchanting light. Moreover, the tranquil ambience of this elevated vantage point provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city below, allowing for moments of quiet contemplation and reflection after a busy day in Verona.

While the interior of the castle remains inaccessible, a visit to Piazzale Castel San Pietro at sunset maximizes the enjoyment of your Verona excursion. To reach the castle, you can opt for the leisurely 20-minute walk or hop on the convenient funicular railway. The funicular operates from 11 am to 9 pm between April and October, with adjusted hours during the off-season. With a fare of €2 each way, the funicular offers a convenient and scenic ascent to this breathtaking viewpoint.

For your final stop in Verona, make it a memorable experience and consider visiting Antica Bottega del Vino. Renowned as one of Verona’s oldest and most prestigious bars, Antica Bottega del Vino exudes an undeniable charm, with its legendary wine cellar adding to the cosy ambience. Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening or simply a refined dining experience, this restaurant promises to exceed expectations

This esteemed restaurant caters to food enthusiasts with its delectable selection of authentic Italian dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. However, what truly sets Antica Bottega del Vino apart is its extensive wine collection, boasting an impressive array of 120 different wines. With such a diverse selection, it’s a haven for wine aficionados eager to explore and savour the finest vintages.

Concluding your day in Verona at Antica Bottega del Vino offers the perfect finale to your exploration of the city. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights and rich wine culture of Verona, creating memories to treasure for years to come.

Where to Stay in Verona

As you’re spending just one day in Verona, why not maximize your time by staying a night before or after your visit? This allows you to either seize the morning hours or linger longer to experience my favourite Italian aperitivo tradition.

Verona offers a range of accommodations for various budgets. Below, I’ve brought together my top picks to suit every traveller’s budget and holiday goals.

Il Relais is a charming hotel perfect for anyone looking for a luxury stay in Verona. This family-run establishment is set in the 19th-century palace, Palazzo Tommasi. Decorated with elegant furniture and dark wood flooring, it inspires a luxurious yet cosy atmosphere.

It sits right in the centre of Verona, with views of the Castelvecchio Castle from your balcony and a 5-minute walk from the Piazza Brà. When you stay here, you must take advantage of the gorgeous breakfast they provide.

Amenities | Private parking, free WiFi, restaurant, room service, air conditioning, breakfast, toiletries and slippers

Hotel Scalzi

Hotel Scalzi in Verona is a charming and friendly boutique hotel located just south of the main Verona old town. It is approximately a 15-minute walk away from the Piazza Brà making it the perfect place to enjoy the convenience of being close to Verona’s historic centre for a very reasonable price.

Hotel Scalzi sits in a historic Avesani building, with beautifully decorated rooms and high-beamed ceilings. The staff here are very friendly and welcoming, ensuring you have an enjoyable stay.

Amenities | Private parking (to be booked in advance), free WiFi, room service, garden, bar, breakfast

The Hostello

The Hostello is the perfect budget-friendly option for staying in Verona. Situated just across the river from the main old town, it’s a 15-minute walk to main attractions such as Juliet’s House.

With clean and comfortable bedrooms, stylishly decorated with beam ceilings and exposed brick, it feels very luxurious hostel accommodation. Each bedside has a plug and reading light (which are highly underrated luxuries in a hostel) plus a secure cupboard for your belongings. There are also welcoming common spaces, with books and comfortable seating areas for you to relax in or meet fellow travellers.

At the hostel, you can choose from mixed and female-only dorm rooms with either 4, 6 or 8 beds. In 2020, Hostelworld rated the hostel the 8th best hostel for female travellers and 9th for best small hostel worldwide.

Amenities | kitchen, common area with TV, books, and board games, garden, luggage storage, towels, security lockers, air conditioning, reading light

The Wrap-Up: How to Spend One Day in Verona

A day in Verona offers a rich tapestry of historical sites, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. From exploring iconic landmarks such as Juliet’s House and the Arena to enjoying panoramic views of the city, this itinerary shows you exactly how to make the most out of your 24 hours in Verona.

Whether you’re looking for recommendations on where to eat, what to do or how to effectively manage your time, this guide has you sorted. Now, you can simply enjoy your time exploring this beautiful city and discovering all it has to offer.

Off to Italy? Why Not Check out the Italy Archives?

One Day in Bergamo: The Complete Itinerary

Top 12 Things to Do in Sirmione, Lake Garda

Solo Travel Italy: The Ultimate Backpacker Guide

15 Best Things to Do in Bologna

2 Days in Bologna: The Perfect Itinerary

Where to Stay in Bologna

Kizzi is a travel blogger and photographer who loves sharing her passion for exploring the world. is the creator of Off to Get Lost. Her love for travel began in 2017 when she went on her first solo adventure to Sri Lanka. Recently, Kizzi has been exploring the hidden depths of Europe and sharing her findings on Off To Get Lost. Through Off to Get Lost, Kizzi aims to empower fellow adventurers, teaching how to maximize their time, budget, and grow confidence while uncovering Europe's finest treasures.

Related Posts

Ultimate 3 Days in Barcelona: Must-See Attractions and Tips

July 18, 2024

19 Best Day Trips From Bologna

July 10, 2024

Assos, Kefalonia: Complete Guide to an Enchanting Greek Village

July 9, 2024

Hi, I'm Kizzi and welcome to Off to Get Lost where the aim is to do exactly that! So let's get lost across the world, dicover new expereinces, and have the adventure of a lifetime. Here on Off to Get Lost, you'll find budget saving tips, perfectly planned itineraries and helpful advice on how to do it all solo.

Recent post

A First Timer’s Guide to Spending One Day in Verona

Did you know that Verona is the home of Romeo and Juliet? Thanks to Romeo and Juliet, Verona is one of the most popular cities in Italy . You can see Juliet, her famous balcony, and the love wall as shown in the movie, “ Letters from Juliet “.  

All you need is one day in Verona to see the city’s best sites. In addition to Rome and Juliet, Verona,  Italy also has other incredible places to see such as the Arena di Verona, Torre dei Lamberti, Castelvecchio, Piazza delle Erbe, Giardino Giusti and more. 

This guide will help you plan the perfect one day in Verona with tips on how to get around, a city card to save money, and the best things to do.

Full disclaimer –  Our post may contain affiliate links. When you click on the link you will have the option to purchase a product at no extra cost to you, but we would receive a small commission. We want to thank everyone for following and supporting us on all of “Our Sweet Adventures.” 

Table of Contents

One Day in Verona

Verona is one of the best places to visit in Italy  because it has everything you want in an Italian city – romance, an arena, a magnificent castle, rivers flowing through the city, and beautiful gardens and piazzas. And it only takes one day in Verona to fall in love with its romantic charm. 

We took a train from Brescia and arrived early in the afternoon and left just after dinner which allowed us to see this lovely city during the day and night. We recommend you try and do the same.

If you have more than one day in Verona, I recommend spending at least  72 hours in Verona  because you can enjoy the city sights and use it as a home base for day trips.

Verona is an easy day trip from Venice or Brescia , Italy. Moreover, if you have 3 days in Milan , a day trip to Verona would be perfect!

One day in Verona – Arena di Verona at night

How to Get to Verona

Whether you are taking a train to Verona or driving by car, it is a very accessible city. If you are driving by car, you will find Verona to be like any other medieval city in Italy because it has very narrow streets.

However, there are plenty of places to park – visitors can park on the white lines for free, park on the blue lines or in the underground parking lots and pay at the automatic machines. To read about the places you can park with addresses, click here .

We found the easiest and stress-free solution is taking a train to Verona. Train tickets are often very budget friendly and easy to use in Italy.

The train station in Verona is called Verona Porta Nuova and is just outside the city’s walls. Once you are off the train, visitors will walk 15-20 minutes to arrive in Verona’s city center. This may sound like a far walk, but it is not and it is quite beautiful.

Visitors will walk on the street, Piazzale 25 Aprile, through a beautiful 16th century stone gateway all the way to the arena.

One day in Verona – beautiful 16th century stone gateway

The Verona Card

I highly recommend getting the Verona Card , especially if you are going to spend more than one day in Verona. The Verona Card will help save a lot of money if you are going to enjoy some of the city’s treasured sights. 

A lot of times Verona cardholders can get free entrance into places. Otherwise, they will receive a huge discount into attractions.

Things to Do in Verona in One Day

As we have previously stated, there are so many things to see in Verona . Many of them are budget-friendly, if not absolutely FREE !

The biggest splurge to enjoy in Verona would be to see a show at the arena. The most money we spent during our one day in Verona, was our dinner.

Sip on Espresso in Piazza Bra City Park

With the exception of the arena, the first sight that caught our eye was the Piazza Bra City Park. There is a beautiful fountain in the center of the small park with benches surrounding it. There is something special about coffee in Italy . So we could not think of a more peaceful way to start your day in Verona than enjoying a shot of espresso at the Piazza Bray City Park. Then when dinner comes around, visitors can revisit the park a night to dine at one of the restaurants with a view of the magnificent arena.

One day in Verona – Piazza Bra City Park

Catch a Show at Arena di Verona

The Italians sure know how to create stunning architectural masterpieces. The Arena di Verona can almost give the Colosseum a run for its money with its sheer beauty. Whether you splurge on some tickets to watch a show, go on a tour inside the arena or just admire the architecture from the outside; the arena is magnificent and the most popular sight to see in Verona – you cannot miss it!

One day in Verona – Arena di Verona

Verona’s amphitheater is one of the best preserved ancient Roman structures. Though it did experience an earthquake in 1117, it was rebuilt to how it stands today. During the ancient times, the amphitheater could seat nearly 30,000 people. Today it only seats 15,000 people for safety and security reasons. Visitors can watch concerts, ballets and opera shows inside the Arena di Verona for an incredible experience you will never forget.

Though we did not have the opportunity to watch a show inside the amphitheater, we did get a sneak peak of the prop’s used for the show. The set piece’s were magnificent and so detailed up close, we can only imagine how spectacular they must have looked during the performance.

Piazza Bra, 1, 37121 Verona VR, Italy For ticket prices and show times please visit the URL below https://www.arena.it/arena/en

Take a Stroll Through Giardino Giusti

The Giardino Giusti is known for being one of the best Italian Renaissance gardens. Inside the Giardino Giusti will literally take the breathe away from visitors. You are encompassed by tall cypress trees that surround the maze-like hedges. We cannot think of a more picturesque landscape than Giardino Giusti to capture the Italian Renaissance charm.

photo courtesy of Flickr by Spencer Wright

Via Giardino Giusti, 2, 37121 Verona VR, Italy Open daily: April – Sep, 9am – 8pm and Oct – Marc 9am – 7pm Prices:  €8.50 for adults, €5 for Verona card holders ,  FREE for children 11 years and younger http://www.tourism.verona.it/en/enjoy-verona/art-and-culture/monuments-and-sights/giusti-garden

Castel St Pietro

Sitting on a hill a few meters above and beyond Verona’s city center is Castle St Pietro. It is not only beautiful but also significant in Verona. This fortress is where Verona was founded and home to the remains of the first settlements dating back to the 7th century B.C..

Castel St Pietro is what movies are made from. One look at them and you will understand why. Visitors can admire Castel St Pietro from afar, just across the river. When we picture Italy, this is what comes to our minds – absolutely gorgeous!

One day in Verona – Castle St Pietro

Though you cannot visit inside, you can get a picturesque view from across the river. From the city center, head to Ponte Pietro Bridge.

Feel the Power of Love at Juliet’s House

O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo? For Romeo is at Juliet’s house in Verona! Whether you are hopeless romantics like us, love the movie, Letter’s to Juliet, or  are a fan of Shakespeare, you simply cannot miss Juliet’s house. It is a little hidden from the city center, almost like the movie, Letter’s to Juliet , depicts.

Juliet’s Love Wall

Visitors will know they have reached Juliet’s House when they come across an alleyway with a wall covered in paper notes and colors of writing. Yes, Juliet’s love note wall does exist! Surprisingly, Letter’s to Juliet, has some truth to its story. A team of local volunteers that goes by the name, The Juliet Club, occupies an office upstairs from Juliet’s courtyard. They dedicate their free time to respond to the thousands of letters that come to their office or stuffed in Juliet’s wall. The alleyway is not the only wall, Juliet’s wall also extends into her courtyard. So, do not forget to bring a piece of paper to leave your love note on Juliet’s famous wall… she will respond to you.

One day in Verona – Juliet’s love wall

The Legend of Juliet’s Boob

Legend has it that if you touch the bronze statue of Juliet’s boob in the courtyard, your luck with love will turn around. We cannot even begin to tell you the amount of people we saw grope Juliet’s boobs. It was both funny and a little disturbing, but hey if touching her boob is what brings love, then why not? Not to be gushy, but we had no reason to touch her boob, we already found our love (awwww). So, instead we just shared a kiss in the romantic air that surrounded us.

One day in Verona – bronze Juliet statue

The Famous Balcony

Last, but certainly not least, Juliet’s famous balcony. Juliet’s House dates back to the late 13th century and features the balcony where Romeo promised his eternal love to Juliet in Shakespeare’s famous tragedy play. Visitors have the opportunity to visit Juliet’s house as well as stand in her famous balcony.  If you really want to, you are free to reenact the scene amongst the public tourists. Inside the house, you can admire the beautiful furniture and velvet costumes worn by the actors in the 1936 movie of “Romeo and Juliet”.

One day in Verona – Juliet’s balcony

Via Cappello, 23, 37121 Verona VR, Italy Mon: 1:30pm – 7:30pm Tues – Sun: 8:30am – 7:30pm  Price:  €6.00 for adults,  €4.50 for seniors over 60 years,  €1.00 for children 8 – 13 years, FREE for children 8 and younger and Verona Card  holders. http://www.tourism.verona.it/en/enjoy-verona/art-and-culture/monuments-and-sights/juliet-s-house#

Torre dei Lamberti

There is nothing more spectacular than the view of a city from the top of a tower. Torre dei Lamberti boasts the tallest tower in Verona. Visitors can see Verona with its red roof top houses, churches, piazzas and more from 275 ft (84 m) high. The tower is accessible to everyone, visitors can go up by a stair-way or a lift. So during your one day in Verona, make sure you purchase tickets to reach the top of the tower for the most stunning view of the city!

photo courtesy of Flickr by Paul Arps

Via della Costa, 1, 37121 Verona VR, Italy Open daily from 10 am – 7 pm  Price:  €8.00 for adults, €5.00 for seniors over 60 years, and children 8 – 14 years, FREE for children 7 and younger and Verona Card  holders.  €1.00 extra to use the lift. http://www.tourism.verona.it/en/enjoy-verona/art-and-culture/monuments-and-sights/lamberti-tower

Relax at Piazza delle Erbe

Going to several sights of Verona while most likely have you walking through Piazza delle Erbe. It is the heart of Verona’s historic center and one of the more beautiful and intimate piazzas in Italy. The tall, colorful, medieval buildings encompass the piazza providing visitors with not only beauty, but shade from the hot sun as well. Since the piazza is in the heart of Verona, it makes for the perfect place to meet up with loved ones or to enjoy a meal at one of the restaurant patios. It is also a great place to relax when you are seeing so many sights in your one day in Verona.

Piazza Erbe, 16, 37121 Verona VR, Italy

Take a Step Back Into Time at Castelvecchio

Verona is one of Italy’s most beautiful medieval towns, so it goes without saying that Verona has a castle you must see. Castelvecchio is known as being one of the most important military castles of the Scaliger dynasty that ruled the city in the Middle Ages. What was once used as a military fortress, today it is used as a museum. The museum showcases 29 different rooms filled with collections of sculptures, statues, paintings, ancient weapons, ceramics, goldworks, miniatures and old bells all dating back from the years 1300 to 1700.

Corso Castelvecchio, 2, 37121 Verona VR, Italy Mon: 1:30pm – 7:30pm Tues – Sun: 8:30am – 7:30pm  Price:  €6.00 for adults,  €4.50 for seniors over 60 years,  €1.00 for children 8 – 13 years, FREE for children 8 and younger and Verona Card  holders. http://www.tourism.verona.it/en/enjoy-verona/art-and-culture/monuments-and-sights/castelvecchio-museum

Watch the Sunset Over the Castelvecchio Bridge

Watching a sunset is one of our favorite things to do in the whole wide world. One of the most stunning sunsets we have ever witnessed was in Verona over the Castelvecchio Bridge. After a visit to the Castelvecchio Castle and Museum, walk across the bridge. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of the golden sun hitting the side of the castle and all of the bridges over the river.

Then walk back over the bridge and along the river to watch a glorious sunset just beyond the Castelvecchio Bridge.  You can thank us later.

Of course, there is more to see in Verona, but for one day in Verona, these are the best sights you cannot miss.

Sign me up for the newsletter!

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

The Amazing Italy Bucket List You Need to See - Our Sweet Adventures

Monday 9th of March 2020

[…] You can literally call out to your Romeo on Juliet’s famous balcony in Verona. During our one day in Verona, we visited Juliet’s Courtyard where there is a statue of Juliet, her balcony, and a wall […]

Thursday 20th of February 2020

Trying to visit for a day this May/June for our honeymoon. Will have to rent a car from Venice to keep our luggage secure. How is the crime in Verona?

oursweetadventures

Monday 2nd of March 2020

Hi, there is luggage storage on trains and there is also BagBnb around Europe that is a great way to store luggage. As far as the crime in Verona, I am sorry but I am not an expert in that field and cannot provide an answer for you.

Tuesday 27th of August 2019

Verona is the best place to visit. and this place is good for knowledge there is lots of mystery. and thank you for sharing your information this is very helpful to us.

My pleasure! Glad you found the post helpful.

map my tour

Saturday 20th of July 2019

Great post such a nice information thanks for sharing.

My pleasure! Glad you enjoyed the post :)

Milan Travel Guide | An Insider’s Guide To The Best Of Milan, Italy – Travelblog by SolarTipsToday

Sunday 16th of June 2019

[…] Our Sweet Adventures has a nice guide to visiting Verona that we found helpful.  […]

How to Spend the Perfect One Day in Verona, Italy (2024)

• December 29, 2023
• by Jenoa Matthes

Verona is known as the city of the Capulets and the Montagues, the home of Romeo and Juliet. And while that is very true, and you can go stand beneath Juliet’s balcony, there is a lot more to this city.

It is, after all, more than 2,000 years old. The layers of history you’ll uncover on your one day in Verona are unparalleled. 

While we spent an entire month in Verona exploring all of its hidden gems, seeing the highlights in one day is definitely doable. We’re sharing all of the must-see attractions, plus some of our favorite local restaurants to help you easily plan your time in Verona.

From ancient Roman ruins to present day gastronomic wonders, you’ll walk across bridges that were destroyed during World War II, and visit powerful families of a Verona past.

Without a doubt there are a lot of things to see in Verona in one day, so let’s get started. 

The 24-Hour Verona Card: Is it worth it?

Yes, based on our experience, the 24-hour Verona Card is very much worth it. Not only does the card give you access to a whole host of attractions but it also allows you to save money on most of the main sights.

Many of the itinerary items we’ve listed here are included on the Verona card. Throughout this one day in Verona itinerary we’ve listed the individual prices of each of the attractions.

If you paid for each of them individually you would total around €40. At €20 for the 24-hour card , it’s easy to show that it provides a huge amount of savings!

Once you’ve purchased the card, make sure to go to the Verona Tourist Office to pick up your physical card before starting your day.

Here are some of the main sights included in the Verona card: 

• Verona Arena
• Arche Scaligere tombs (only open in the summer)
• Church of Sant’Anastasia
• Church of San Zeno
• Juliet’s House (must book in advance)
• San Fermo Church
• Verona Cathedral
• Archeological Museum at the Roman Theatre
• Castelvecchio Museum
• Juliet’s Tomb and Frescoes museum
• Lamberti Tower

For more information and a complete list of everything included in the Verona card, check out the official website .

One Day in Verona Itinerary

This Verona itinerary will walk you through what to see in Verona in one day. We’ve picked out the top sights which we think should be prioritized to give you the best possible experience. 

Breakfast at Flego

Start your day off with a visit to Pasticceria Flego for a stuffed brioche with cream and a coffee. The aesthetic little cafe has been around since the 70s and serves a lot of Veronese specialty sweets and treats.

If you’re in Verona around the holiday season try a Pandoro cake. Flego has three locations around the city, two of which are in the city center.

Addresses : Corso Porta Borsari, 9 & Via Stella, 13 (we prefer this location) Hours : Both locations are open 7 days a week 7:30 am – 7:30 pm

Arena di Verona & Piazza Bra

Piazza Bra is a beautiful plaza which encompasses a green space, a load of cafes, shops, restaurants, as well as the ancient Verona Arena. The piazza is an active place and a meeting point for Veronese residents.

This is a great place to start your day off and get a taste for the liveliness throughout the city. 

The Verona Arena was built in 30 AD with pink and white limestone. It has stood through time as a performance stage since then. It is now known as one of the most well preserved ancient Roman arenas.

You can visit during the day and experience all the history in it by wandering the open seating space and the interior walkways. 

Even more remarkable though is watching the space come alive in the way it was intended. During the summer, you can attend operas, theater performances, and more and enjoy the remarkable acoustics that fill in the ancient space during operas, theater performances, and more.

Check the calendar of events to see what is on while you are in town.

Hours : Tuesday – Sunday from 9:00am – 7:00pm Ticket price : €10 Included in the Verona Card? Yes

Castelvecchio Museum & Bridge

The Castelvecchio museum is housed in a castle of the same name which was first built in the 1300s. It now contains an array of historic artwork from throughout Medieval and Renaissance Italy as well as artifacts like swords, jewels, and detached frescoes.

Guided tours of the museum artworks are available — make sure to book in advance not to be disappointed.

Connected to the museum and castle is the Castelvecchio bridge. The bridge can be visited independently from the museum and is free to access.

It was also built in the mid-1300s and at that time it had the largest span in the world. While the bridge was rebuilt after its destruction in World War II, the current iteration is made with the same bricks and design as the original.

Hours : Tuesday – Sunday from 10:00am – 6:00pm | More info on official website Ticket price : €6.60 online | €6 at the museum Included in the Verona Card? Yes

Piazza delle Erbe

Your next stop is known in English as Market Square — Piazza delle Erbe — and is the oldest square in Verona. It has been vital to the city since the time of the Roman Empire when it acted as the city’s forum. 

Still to this day the square is full of life. Around it you can find an array of monuments and attractions, including the Torre Lamberti (outlined next), Volto Barbaro — a famous alleyway in Romeo & Juliet, and the Palazzo Maffei Casa museum. This square has been voted the most beautiful square in the world so no doubt is worth a visit.

Torre Lamberti

Within the city of Verona, the Torre Lamberti is the highest viewpoint, standing 84 meters (over 275 feet) high. This makes the tower an amazing place from which to catch beautiful, 360° birds-eye views of the city.

You can reach the top by climbing up 368 steps or paying a little extra to ride the elevator to the top. Both ways will give you a perspective on the interior architecture of the tower.

The Torre Lamberti was originally built in the 12th century but after damage from a direct lightning hit, it was expanded upon during restoration works. The clock was an even later addition. 

Hours : Monday – Friday from 10:00am – 6:00pm & Saturday – Sunday from 11:00am – 7:00pm Ticket price : €6 | Reservations are highly recommended by emailing in advance on the official website Included in the Verona Card? Yes — but advanced booking is recommended

Piazza dei Signori

Piazza dei Signori is a beautiful square in Verona surrounded by stunning, palatial buildings. These buildings date back as early as the 12th century and were largely used as private residences for powerful Veronese families such as the Scaligeri family.

This family ran the city throughout the 13th and 14th centuries. You can also discover other beautiful landmarks here such as the marble statue of Girolamo Fracastoro by the sculptor Danese Cattaneo and the famous statue of Dante which stands in the center of the square.

Interestingly, after Dante was banished from Florence he was welcomed to Verona as a guest and friend of the Scaglieri family. 

Scaliger Tombs

That same Scaliger family who ran Verona for over a century are buried in these elaborate tombs. Visiting the tombs will give you an idea of how much power and influence — along with riches — the family held.

The Gothic grave monuments have incredible detail, from the decorations on the wrought iron fencing that surrounds the complex, all the way to the large adornments surrounding each individual tomb the attention to detail and opulence in death is impressive. 

The tombs are only open to enter during the summer months; otherwise, you can walk past them and see them through the iron fence the rest of the year. We have never actually entered inside because we’ve only visited during the months they are closed.

Hours : Tuesday – Sunday from 7:30am – 12:30pm & 13:30pm to 17:00 pm (only open during the summer months) Ticket price : Free with ticket to other Verona museums & monuments Included in the Verona Card? Yes

Juliet’s House

Julet’s House may be one of the most well known and sought out attractions in Verona thanks to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.

While the home where the balcony can now be found is believed to have been the home of the Dal Cappello family, legend says it is there that Giulietta Capuleti was born. Whether or not that is true, it is a fact that the balcony you can now see was only very recently added on to the building.

You can enter the courtyard in front of the house for free and look up at the famous balcony. There is also a statue of ‘Juliet’ in the courtyard — it is believed that if you rub the statue’s right breast you will gain luck in love.

Inside the house you can see Veronese frescoes, 19th-century paintings, as well as modern day costumes from the 1968 movie version of Romeo & Juliet.

In our opinion, the home is pretty basic compared to other Italian villas and castles. If you have the Verona Card, it’s worth a quick stop; however, we don’t feel like it’s worth paying extra to go inside.

Hours : Tuesday – Sunday from 9:00am – 7:00pm Ticket price : €6 Included in the Verona Card? Yes — but advanced booking of a time for your visit is mandatory. Book online at the official website.

Basilica di Santa Anastasia

The Basilica di Santa Anastasia is Verona’s largest church with architecture that is a blend of both Gothic and Romanesque styles. The interior is an amazing blend of marbles from around the country.

Construction of the basilica took over 100 years and was mostly completed in 1400. The building is full of impressive frescoes as well as a great collection of statues and artworks from the last 600 years.  

Hours : Monday – Friday from 10:00am – 5:00pm & Saturday from 9:30am – 6:00pm & Sundays 1:00pm – 5:30pm Ticket price : €4 Included in the Verona Card? Yes

Ponte Pietra

Ponte Pietra means “stone bridge”. This one is a Roman arch style bridge which was completed in 100 BC. It is the first structure the Romans completed after they arrived in Verona.

Unfortunately, the structure was partially destroyed during World War II. It does stand though now as it originally was, rebuilt with entirely original materials. Views of the bridge from points along the river are stunning, but a walk across the bridge is also not to be missed on your one day in Verona.

Piazzale Castel San Pietro

The biggest reason to include the Piazzale Castel San Pietro in your 1 day in Verona is for the epic views from its exterior. You actually can’t currently enter the castle (which is more technically a fort), but there is a restaurant at the top of the hill where you can enjoy a drink and panoramic views out across the city of Verona.

Those views include the Torre di Lamberti, the river, and the various peeks and steeples of the churches and towers in the city. 

If you’re looking for an amazing spot to enjoy the sunset in Verona, this is definitely the spot to choose. While there is a pathway of stone steps up, if you’re not into that level of exercise, you can use the funicular to access the hill during daytime hours. 

Funicular hours: Summer (April – October) 10:00am – 9:00pm & Winter (November – March) 10:00am – 5:00pm  Funicular ticket price : €3 roundtrip | €2 one-way Included in the Verona Card? No

Teatro Romano

This theater was built by the Romans in the first century BC. Its ruins were uncovered in the 1800s, and while they are partially visible today, much of the space has been revamped or covered with modern materials as it continues to be a working theater with events on throughout the year.

Regardless, the Roman theater is a sight to be seen in order to get a feel for what life was like in Verona during Roman times — the grandeur of the way the people lived then. 

And of course, don’t miss the attached museum with mosaics, Roman statues, tombs, as well as everyday items recovered from excavations of ancient Verona.

Hours : Tuesday – Wednesday from 2:00pm – 6:00pm & Thursday – Sunday 10:00am – 6:00pm Ticket price : €6 | More info on the official website Included in the Verona Card? Yes

Wander around the streets

By now you may have noticed how stunning the streets of Verona are, and how there is so much more to discover around every corner. The cobblestone paths tell stories of an ancient world and of all of the civilizations and peoples who have passed through it. 

As you take your time wandering and getting lost in the warmth of the city’s colors you might want to stop in at another church — check out the romanesque Battistero di San Giovanni in Fonte or the combined romanesque and gothic architecture of the Church of San Fermo Maggiore. 

Or maybe you’ll want to stop at another cafe for a bit and enjoy a Torta delle Rose (a rich sugar cake) — check out Pasticceria De Rossi. Or you could head down to the Adige River for a leisurely stroll along its banks — there are paths running along the far side near Parco Cesare Lombroso.

Map of Verona in One Day

To help you best navigate your way around during your day in Verona, here is a map of all of the sights and restaurants listed in this itinerary.

To save the map to Google Maps on your phone or computer, click on the star next to the title. Once you do this, you’ll be able to find the map in your “saved maps” list on your phone.

To see a list of all the items on the map, click the box with arrow on the left. To enlarge the map, click the box on the right.

How to get around Verona 

The easiest way to get around Verona is by walking! All of the sights in this itinerary are within walking distance, which means you won’t have to pay extra for any public transportation during your one day in Verona.

Is one day enough for Verona?

One day is a really nice amount of time for Verona, as you can see from this Verona in 1 day itinerary, you can fit a lot into that time.

That being said, if you can stretch your overall Italy itinerary to fit a full two days in Verona, that will allow you more time to really see everything this gorgeous Italian city has to offer, to take things a bit slower, and to stop in for a few more meals.

Best Verona Tour Options

If you’re wanting to learn more about the history of Verona, then taking a tour is an excellent choice. From historical walking tours to food and wine tours, these are the best options.

• Verona Food, Wine & History tour : This is the tour to take if you want a bit of history and a bit of food. You’ll wander through the streets of Verona with a guide learning about the main sights all while sipping and eating your way through the city.
• Verona Highlights Walking Tour : On this small-group tour, you’ll wander around the city with an expert guide seeing all of the highlights.

Where to eat in Verona

Speaking of food, there are plenty of amazing options for eating around the city. Here are a few we recommend. 

Quick eats: 

• La Bottega della Gina XXL – If you’re a pasta lover, this place can’t be skipped. Each day the small shop makes tortelloni, tortellini, tagliatelle, gnocchi, lasagna — all fresh. Their menu is small but full of flavor. If you want to try a bit of everything without popping, try the mixed tortellini option. 
• La Figaccia – While there are a few bar stools in the shop, La Figaccia mostly offers their amazing focaccia sandwiches to go. This is a perfect option for a delicious meal when you’re not super hungry, or if you’re in a bit of a hurry to get through all of your things to do in Verona in a day. Try the carpaccio — and don’t worry, the meat and cheese portions are generous.
• Dal Grano – For a  delicious square slice of pizza, Dal Grano is the best option in Verona. There is no seating, but you can stand at the counter and eat if you prefer that to a takeaway slice. All of the slices ready are on display in the case — they change throughout the day but can always be dependably delicious with a light, fluffy crust. 
• PanzeRé – Panzerotteria – For fresh fried bread made from raw ingredients this is a must-try. You can get the bread stuffed with tomatoes and mozzarella or a variety of other ingredients. This is also a good place to keep in mind for a late night snack as it’s open until 2 am. 

Italian Restaurants: 

• Caffè Monte Baldo – Osteria con cucina – This is a gorgeous and typical little Italian restaurant serving up small plates and cicchetti made with fresh ingredients. There’s an amazing menu of pastas, but make sure also to save room for dessert (try the cheesecake). Also, if you’re a wine drinker, allow the servers to guide you through the perfect pairings for each stage of your meal.
• Trattoria alla Colonna – It was an accident of the wrong dish served about 30 years ago which first put this trattoria on the map for its incredible fried veal cutlets (schnitzel) — the dish it is still most well known for today. The delicious schnitzel sits alongside classics like pastas and a variety of other meat dishes. 
• Locanda di Castelvecchio – This restaurant is strongly recommended for the dedicated carnivores out there. Take a seat and a cart of boiled meats will make its way around to you. You can then point and choose which ones you want to try (we recommend going all out and trying them all!). Of course, in addition to the superb meat selection there are also amazing pasta dishes on the menu. 
• Trattoria al Pompiere – This cozy trattoria serves up a menu on which everything is dependly delicious. This of course makes it a no-brainer as an addition to your things to do in Verona in one day. In addition to the amazing food, the service is excellent and the wine list is very impressive. 

Where to stay in Verona

We love finding the best hotels in every city that we visit. Verona has a wonderful selection of hotels that accommodate every type of budget. Here are our top picks:

Luxury:  Vista Palazzo | This 5-star hotel features gorgeous modern rooms, rooftop views, and top amenities like a spa and gym.

Boutique:  Hotel Accademia | A wonderful hotel located in the heart of the old town with amenities like a gym and breakfast.

Budget:  Casa Esvael | This charming b&b is located just a 5-minute walk from the center of Verona and offers a lovely rustic Italian stay.

How to get to Verona

Getting to Verona by plane

If you are flying into Verona you will arrive at the Verona Villafranca Airport, also known as Valerio Catullo Airport, which is about 10 km (around 6 miles) out of the city.

A huge number of airlines have flights arriving into the airport from around 80 destinations. You can get direct to Verona from cities like Frankfurt, London, or Munich.

After you arrive at the airport you have several options to get you into the city. You can get the 199 bus for €6, grab a taxi for around €25, or you could pick up a car rental at the airport. The drive in is about 15 minutes into town. 

Getting to Verona by train

The main train station in Verona is Verona Porta Nuova, but there is also a second one called Verona Porta Vescovo. The Porta Nuova station is located to the west of Verona.

You can catch the train on a direct journey from cities around Italy like Milan, Venice, and Trieste. 

If you don’t have a lot of luggage you could walk easily into the city center in about 20 minutes. Alternatively, there are several bus options which will get you there in a matter of minutes. 

We recommend purchasing your train tickets in Italy online at the official Trenitalia website or via the app. For the best prices, buy your tickets at least 3 weeks in advance.

Getting to Verona by car

Verona is in a great location, more or less equidistant from Venice, Bologna, and Milan with drive times of around 90 minutes to two hours.

A trip by car from any of these other cities offers a fantastic opportunity to see more of the Italian countryside.

That being said, you probably won’t need the car while you are exploring this 1 day in Verona itinerary — so either find a good place to park it or return it to the rental company until you’re ready to head to your next stop.

When is the best time to visit Verona? 

Verona is a very popular tourist destination, which means it’s pretty packed all year round. 

For the best weather and a less crowded experience, we suggest visiting during the shoulder seasons. April to June and September to October are great times to visit. 

Alternatively, if you want to experience Italy during the holiday season, the Verona Christmas market is one of the best in Italy. The best time to visit the market is in December up until Christmas.

Best Verona Day Trips

Spending an extra day in the city and planning to do a day trip from Verona? During our month in Verona, we took a ton of day trips. These are our top 5 recommendations.

• Venice : A day trip from Verona to Venice is a great idea , especially considering accommodation is much cheaper in Verona! With the train only taking 1-1.5 hours, you’ll have the entire day to traverse the canals of Venice and explore this magical city.
• Padua (Padova) : The train from Verona to Padua only takes 45 minutes to 1 hour. This city is filled with historical charm and has plenty of unique sights to keep you busy for the day, such as the Scrovegni Chapel and Prato della Valle.
• Mantua (Mantova): One of our favorite cities in northern Italy, Mantua is only a 45 minute train ride from Verona. The Palazzo Ducale and Palazzo Te are both must-sees.
• Bologna : If you’re looking to visit Italy’s food capital, then a day trip to Bologna is a must! The train takes between 1-1.5 hours and so many wonderful things to do in Bologna , such as climbing the two towers and hiking up the world’s longest portico.
• Madonna della Corona Sanctuary : This is an incredible 17th century church that is built into a rocky cliffside. It’s more tricky to get here, but the best way to do it is by renting a car from Verona for the day.

More information for your trip to northern Italy

• Bologna to Verona day trip
• Milan to Verona day trip
• 20 Reasons to visit Bologna, Italy

ITALY TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE Italy Travel Insurance  – Should you get travel insurance for Italy? YES! We always get travel insurance before all of our trips for peace of mind. Check out  Safety Wing  to find the best plan for you. Italy Rental Cars  – Is it safe to rent a car in Italy? Yes! We’ve rented a car in Italy too many times to count, and it’s definitely the most convenient way to get around the countryside. We rented our car through  Discover Cars  (our go-to rental agency), which helps you find the best rates no matter where you are traveling. Italy Phone Plans –  If your phone plan does not offer free coverage in Italy, then we suggest getting an eSIM. We used  Airalo  during our trip to Italy, and we had fantastic coverage the entire time. It’s easy to download and you can even top up via the app if needed. Italy Hotels –  Wondering where to book your accommodations for Italy? We’ve been reserving all of our hotels through  Booking  for years. Their messaging tool makes it easy to communicate with the hotels, and there are endless options to choose from.

4 COMMENTS:

Amazing guide!! I’m reading this on my way to Verona and it’s super helpful

Happy to help! Enjoy your time in Verona. -Jenoa

Staying in Vicenza to get the best of both worlds, Venice and Verona. And this has been the best guide I’ve read! Thank you!!

I’m so happy to hear that! I hope you enjoyed your trip!

– Jenoa

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Copyright © 2024 | THE TRAVEL FOLK

• South Africa
• Afghanistan
• North Korea
• Adventure + Outdoors
• Amusement Parks
• Backpacking Trips
• Boating + Cruises
• Budget Travel
• Bus + Train Travel
• Coasts + Islands
• Country Trips
• Fall Vacations
• Family Vacations
• Green Travel
• Heritage + History
• Honeymoons + Romance
• Inspiration + Guide
• Landmarks + Attractions
• LGBT Travel
• Markets + Bazaars
• National Parks + Reserves
• Nature + Wildlife
• Parks + Gardens
• Pets + Animals
• Photography
• Airlines + Airports
• Budgeting + Currency
• Business Travel
• Celebrity Travel
• Customs + Immigration
• Deals + Rewards
• Family Travel
• Hotels + Resorts
• Luggage + Packing Tips
• Offbeat News
• Photography Tips
• Responsible Travel
• Solo Travel
• Tech + Gear
• Travel Etiquette
• Travel Warnings
• Bars + Clubs
• Celebrity Chefs
• Restaurants + Cafés
• Wine + Vineyards
• Beach Hotels
• Boutique Hotels
• Hotel Openings
• Hotel Reviews
• Luxury Hotels
• Mountain + Ski Resorts
• Spa Resorts
• Vacation Rentals
• Asia Cruises
• European Cruises
• Festivals + Events
• Museums + Galleries
• Style + Design
• Travel’s Best
• Hotel with Agoda.com
• Hotel with Booking.com

Where to eat in Penang? 17 best places to eat &…

Best bubble tea in Taiwan — Top 11 most famous &…

19+ top places to visit & best things to do in…

Kota Kinabalu travel blog — The fullest Kota Kinabalu travel guide…

Suggested 3 days in Pattaya itinerary for independent travelers

The complete Seoul subway guide: How to use, lines, fares for…

How much does it cost to travel to Korea? Tips on…

The ultimate guide to NETS FlashPay Card: What is it, how…

How much will it cost to go to Singapore? Tips on…

29+ must-try foods in Thailand

Must-eat in Bali. 25+ best street food in Bali

11+ best homestays in Kuala Lumpur near famous tourist attractions

Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives reviews. The detailed review of my vacation…

Hyatt Regency Danang Resort and Spa reviews. The resort is highly…

+7 luxury resorts you must stay in Danang, Vietnam

10 must-know things for your best first time European river cruise

Top 3 best luxury cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam

Cherry blossom festival Korea 2024 — Top 5 cherry blossom festivals…

Ghibli museum blog — The fullest Ghibli museum guide for first-timers

Kyoto festival — Top 10 best events & most famous festivals…

National Palace Museum Taipei blog — What to see in National…

Japanese waterfall — Top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan in…

19+ most beautiful towns in Europe every tourist need to visit…

Georgia travel photos — 20+ captivating photos show Georgia is heaven…

Explore Damnoen Floating Market — The oldest floating market of Thailand

Visiting Fenghuang Ancient Town — One of the most charming ancient…

Mekong Delta travel blog — Beyond rivers of Southwestern Vietnam

14 reasons why you should travel when you are young

Shigaraki Tanuki – An animal symbol of good luck in Japan

Living in the charms of cave houses in Andalucia, Southern Spain

20+ jaw-dropping tiny homes around the world

Verona itinerary 1 day — suggested verona one day trip & how to spend 24 hours in verona.

Verona is located in northern Italy, about 110km from the romantic city of Venice. So if you intend to visit the famous tourist city of Venice, you should spend an extra day or two exploring Verona also known as the city of love. For those who have not had the opportunity to come here, wander for a few minutes with us through this article. So, what to do in Verona for 1 day and how to spend 24 hours in Verona? Let’s check out our suggested Verona itinerary 1 day with the detailed itinerary for Verona one day trip (Verona in a day, Verona in one day) as follows!

• Verona travel blog — The fullest Verona travel guide for first-timers
• Where to visit in Verona? — 7+ top Verona attractions & best places to visit in Verona
• What to buy in Italy? — 19+ top souvenirs & best things to buy in Italy
• Sardinia travel blog — The fullest Sardinia travel guide for first-timers
• Alberobello travel blog — The fullest Alberobello guide for first-timers

10:00 am (#verona itinerary 1 day)

The day trip begins at Verona Porta Nuova Central Station. From here you can walk 20 minutes or take a bus for 5 minutes to the Verona Arena (Roman amphitheater). For young people with good health, I recommend walking for a few reasons: saving, exercising and seeing (including selfies) on Corsa Porta Nuova street with many lovely Italian architectural buildings.

10:30 am (#verona itinerary 1 day)

You are standing in front of the Verona arena, the most popular tourist attraction in the city. I have been to Verona many times (due to a friend who previously did a PhD at the University of Verona) but have never visited the arena because I have heard that there is nothing more special than the Colosseum in Rome.

Currently, this is not only a tourist attraction but also an art performance space of many famous artists. Nearby Bra Square is the largest community venue in the city. If you are lucky enough to be present on the day of the open market, you can enjoy or buy as gifts local Italian products.

11:30 am (#verona one day trip)

It takes about 10 minutes to walk from Bra square to the Castelvecchio bridge (it means old castle in Italian). The Castelvecchio Bridge connects to the castle, was built very solidly and played an important role in protecting the medieval city. It was built of red brick, not plastered, so I used to joke that it was an old brick kiln. Right next to the river are some very beautiful colorful decorated cafes. Sitting there and sipping a cup of cappuccino, watching the brick castle, listening to the murmuring water of the Adige river below, taking a few pictures and posting them on social media, there are definitely a lot of jealous people :D.

12:00 am (#verona in one day)

Lunch time, invite you to stop by the Acqua E Grano pizzeria (Address: 4 Via Armando Diaz, 37121 Verona) less than 10 minutes walk away. The shop is small, with only a few tables and chairs, clean, beautifully presented, fresh and affordable pizza. I’ve eaten here twice, tasted about five or seven varieties and have never been disappointed.

From the lunch place, you ask for directions to the busiest street in the city, Via Giuseppe Mazzini. It’s normal for women and girls who are addicted to shopping to get lost here for an hour. Even for the non-addict, the Italian boutiques are well worth a visit. I especially like Italian leather goods because of its good quality, beautiful seams, and stylish designs, but I have not been able to buy much for the “money” reason.

2:30 pm (#verona in a day)

At the end of the shopping street is the Erbe Delle square. This place especially attracts visitors by the elaborate paintings on the walls surrounding the square, the houses with Italian architectural style. Sitting and looking at the sky, watching people pass by, listening to street musicians perform at Erbe is my favorite thing to do in Verona.

3:00 pm (#24 hours in verona)

Dei Signori Square is a recognizable with a few steps with its towering bell tower. In the center of the square is a statue of Dante, the great Italian poet who was instrumental in the development of modern day Italian. Therefore, this place is also known as Dante Square.

Surely many people know that Verona is associated with the love story of Romeo and Juliet. But perhaps few people know that these two characters are completely unreal and according to historical records, the talented English playwright Shakespeare has never even set foot in this city. But tourists don’t need to care, they still flock to Juliet’s house, watch the legendary balcony, buy entrance tickets, and before leaving, don’t forget to… touch her breasts (don’t know with wishes). This is me telling the truth, not joking. Her breasts are shiny. Love locks here are more than piglets. Pieces of paper with messages of love were plastered on the wall with… chewing gum. The paper is removed regularly, and the candy residue is still left to form a wall of gum that quite interesting.

Farewell to Juliet, invite you to climb to the castle of Saint Pietro located on the top of the hill to watch the sunset, see the city full of red tiles, and watch the Adige river flowing forever in the memories of the locals. I don’t know where else to see Verona from above is more beautiful than here.

Go down the street for an ice cream cone at the famous Gelateria Ponte Pietra (Address: Via Ponte Pietra, 13, 37121 Verona VR, Italy/Hours: 11 AM–11 PM). This place is very crowded with locals. But whenever a place is crowded with locals, the quality is unquestionable, right?

After eating ice cream, if you still have energy, walk, but when you run out of breath, take the bus to the central station, hop on the train to a new city (for example, Venice), start new experiences.

Have a great time in Verona!

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Hotel Milano & SPA ( Agoda , Booking )
• Verona – Hotel Giulietta E Romeo ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel Firenze ( Agoda , Booking )
• Novo Hotel Rossi ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel Accademia ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel Leopardi ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel San Marco Fitness Pool & Spa ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel Porta Palio ( Agoda , Booking )

Check out more top and best hotels in Verona on Agoda.com or Booking.com

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Verona you can refer to

• Verona Arena Fast Track Tour in Verona
• Verona Walking Tour
• Gardaland Amusement Park Ticket in Verona
• Verona Card Pass
• Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Bus Tour in Verona
• Verona: Verona Card with Arena Priority Entrance
• Verona from Above: Lamberti Tower Entry
• Verona: History and Hidden Gems Walking Tour
• From Verona: Sirmione and Lake Garda Small Group Tour
• From Verona: Amarone Wine Trail Tour
• Verona: 2.5-Hour Guided City Walking Tour
• Gardaland: Sea Life and Gardaland Park Skip-the-Line Ticket
• Verona: Hop-on Hop-off Tour 24 or 48-Hour Ticket
• Verona Full-Day Tour from Lake Garda
• Verona & Lake Garda Day Trip from Milan

Are you looking for more top things to do in Verona: Tours, activities, attractions and other things?  Let’s check it out at here . And all Italy guide here .

Related articles

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Best bubble tea in taiwan — top 11 most famous & top bubble tea brands in taiwan, 19+ top places to visit & best things to do in kota kinabalu for first time visitors, kota kinabalu travel blog — the fullest kota kinabalu travel guide for first-timers.

14+ best places to visit in Barcelona

19+ must-visit places & best places to see in Seoul for all-kind of travelers

9 top things to do & best places to visit in Johor Bahru

Top Beaches in Langkawi — 9 best beaches in Langkawi, Malaysia

Ipoh Itinerary 3 Days 2 Nights for Food and Drink Lovers

Editor picks.

Where to eat in Penang? 17 best places to eat &...

Best bubble tea in Taiwan — Top 11 most famous &...

19+ top places to visit & best things to do in...

Popular posts.

What to buy in USA? — 17+ must buy in USA...

What to buy in Korea? — Top +23 cheap, famous &...

Must buy souvenir in Taiwan — Top 17+ most famous, cheap...

Popular category.

• Inspiration + Guide 1507
• Trip Inspiration 468
• Food + Drink 222
• Thailand 215
• Coasts + Islands 196
• South Korea 175
• Vietnam 172
• Travel Photos 144
• Work for Us
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

StyledTraveler

Travel, fashion, food, art and more

Ultimate Itinerary for 1 Day in Romantic Verona, Italy

Romantic Verona is a beautiful town located on the Adige River in the Veneto region of Italy. The town is an easy train ride from both Milan and Venice, and as such it makes for a perfect one-day trip. Verona is best known around the world for inspiring William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, even though it is not known if he ever visited the town. This uniquely beautiful town attracts many tourists each year and as such is a pretty busy place. However, with a little planning you will surely be able to spend a wonderful and romantic day there.

What to do, where to go in Verona

A trip to Verona can be very uncomplicated. There is plenty to do without a need to plan ahead too much. From the train station (Verona Porta Nuova) you can easily walk to the center of town (about 20 minutes) or take a cab.

Visit a historic square

Start at Piazza delle Erbe – a historic city square. A market in the middle of the square provides a place to look at local crafts, get a freshly squeezed juice, try some locally grown fruits and more. Look up and imagine life in Verona at the time of Shakespeare’s play.

Juliet’s house

A trip to romantic Verona would not be complete without touching Romeo and Juliet’s storied setting. Walk to the house, located at Via Cappello, 23 (about a 2-minute walk from Piazza delle Erbe). Note that the museum is not open on Mondays. Expect crowds as Juliet’s house is a very popular place to visit. You can purchase tickets for a timed entry here . The ticket gets you access to the house and the famous balcony. If traveling with your significant other, be sure to climb to the balcony one at a time and take pictures.

A bronze statue of Juliet sits in the courtyard of the house. Tourists rub her right breast to find love and good luck.

Finally, at the entrance of the house there is a Love Wall covered with love notes left behind. The authorities have installed removable panels where visitors can leave their messages.

Adige River

Following a visit to Juliet’s house, take a quiet stroll to the beautiful banks of the Adige River. Strolling along the river feels miles away from the tourist center of Verona. Take some quiet time and reflect on life. It is really recharging 😊.

Walk the streets of Verona without a destination and look for a restaurant where the locals are having lunch. You are likely to experience Verona the way people live. Such a treat! Just grab a table and order the special and a glass of Amarone or Valpolicella wine. Be sure to try some of the Veronese food specialties – potato gnocchi, risotto with tastasal, polenta, risotto all’Amarone. For a sweet treat try sfogliatelle di Villafranca, pandoro, or fritole.

Here are a few suggestions from us:

• Osteria Il Bertoldo
• Trattoria Pane e Vino
• Il Punto Rosa (address CXRR+6H Verona, Province of Verona, Italy)

Arena Di Verona

Head to the historic Arena Di Verona – a 2000-year-old Roman amphitheater. The arena is very well preserved. It has served as a place for gladiator fights, animal hunts, and later became a source for stone for building the exterior city walls. Nowadays, the arena is used for its world-famous opera performances. Many concerts are also staged there. You can buy tickets online here .

Medieval Verona streets

Take some time to just stroll the streets of Medieval Verona. The center of town has many pedestrian-only streets and you can browse various local and international fashion stores.

Be sure to grab a gelato as a special treat for a romantic day in Verona.

Our recommendation is to try to enjoy the city without too much planning. Just walk around and feel the history of this special town, best appreciated at a slower pace.

What else to do in Verona

If you have extra time or stay overnight, consider visiting these additional points of interest.

• Castelvecchio Museum – see one of the largest collections of Italian art. You can buy tickets here .
• Torre dei Lamberti – climb the tower for breathtaking views of the city and region.
• Cathedral of Verona (Duomo Santa Maria Matricolare) – a unique blend of Romanesque and Gothic style.
• Castel San Pietro – drive to the San Pietro castle for spectacular views of the city.

What we loved about romantic Verona

• A very manageable city with rich history, beauty, and elegance evident everywhere
• Fresh mountain air and views
• Excellent food that is easy to enjoy without much planning and reservations. Unique food options (horse meat, anyone😊?)
• Romance everywhere – museums, sculptures, piazzas, restaurants, and cafes

Stay tuned for our specific recommendations on what to wear.

Check out our list of travel essentials on what to take and how to maximize your packing.

[All pictures taken by the Styled Traveler]

You may also like...

How to best spend 3 days in moab, utah.

How to Visit Vermont in The Fall

How to Spend 2 Magical Fall Days in Toronto

How to Spend 3 Days in Istanbul, Turkey

672 Wine Club

• Motorcycles
• Car of the Month
• Destinations
• Men’s Fashion
• Watch Collector
• Art & Collectibles
• Vacation Homes
• Celebrity Homes
• New Construction
• Home Design
• Electronics
• Fine Dining
• Aston Martin
• Dubai Tourism
• Gateway Bronco
• On Location – Olympic Games Paris 2024
• One&Only
• The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
• St. Regis Costa Mujeres Resort
• Sports & Leisure
• Health & Wellness
• Best of the Best
• The Ultimate Gift Guide

Pan Am Stopped Flying Over 30 Years Ago. Now It’s Hitting the Skies for a 12-Day Trip Around the World.

The private-jet trip starts at $59,950 per person. , abby montanez, abby montanez's most recent stories.

• A Manhattan Townhouse Once Owned by a Noted Landscape Architect Hits the Market for $32 Million
• This Olympic Runner’s Spray-On Sneakers Are Poised to Make History in Paris
• A Minimalist Mansion in Australia With Direct Beach Access Was Just Listed for $26.4 Million
• Share This Article

Pan Am is back—and ready for takeoff.  

Related Stories

Forget points. credit card companies are now building swanky airport lounges around the u.s..

• Tesla’s Cybertruck Outsold Every Other Electric Pickup in May
• This Pristine 1960 Ferrari 250 Spider Could Fetch $18 Million at Auction

Pan American World Airway ceased operations in December 1991 by filing for bankruptcy after 65 years of service. Throughout the ‘50s and ‘60s, the trailblazing airline was a symbol of glamour and established itself as a pioneer of air travel. The carrier even earned its place in pop culture as the preferred airline for celebrities including the Beatles and fictional jet-setters like James Bond . 

The high-flying experience will be limited to just 50 guests and travelers will board a privately chartered Boeing 757-200 aircraft equipped with all-business-class lie-flat seating. While en route, passengers will enjoy continental cuisine and an open bar. The journey also includes stays in luxury hotels such as the Savoy in London , the Four Seasons Ritz in Lisbon, and the Rosewood Bermuda, to name a few.  

Of course, there are a slew of special events planned as well. Most notably, a dinner at the Flying Boat and Maritime Museum in Foynes where the only B314 Flying Boat replica in the world is stored. Bookings for the trip start at $59,950 per person based on double occupancy (or $65,000 for single occupancy) and reservations include the flights, accommodations, most meals and drinks, plus Pan Am branded merch for participants.  

According to Forbes , Pan Am is already planning another around-the-world journey for 2027 to commemorate its 100th anniversary.

Abigail Montanez is a staff writer at Robb Report. She has worked in both print and digital publishing for over half a decade, covering everything from real estate, entertainment, dining, travel to…

Read More On:

• Private Jet

More Aviation

These Bonkers Electric Heli-Pods Will Fly Visitors Around the World Expo in Saudi Arabia

Scientists Are Working on ‘Dune’-Inspired Stillsuits That Turn Astronauts’ Urine Into Drinking Water

A Major Paris Airport Strike Could Disrupt Travel to the Olympics

Meet the Wine Club That Thinks Differently.

Receive editor-curated reds from boutique California producers four times a year.

Give the Gift of Luxury

Latest Galleries in Aviation

How Experimental X-Planes Changed Aviation as We Know It

The 7 Best Aviator Sunglasses to Channel Your Inner Maverick

More from our brands, j.d. vance’s wife usha opts for off-the-rack, cobalt blue dress for speech at the rnc, caitlin clark, sabrina ionescu opt out of wnba 3-point contest, donald trump accepts republican nomination, details assassination attempt: ‘i had god on my side’, after viral ‘embrace,’ hank willis thomas is tapped for boston’s next public art program, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors.

US union organizing, and unions' election win rate, is surging, NLRB says

• Medium Text

• Cemex SAB de CV Follow
• Starbucks Corp Follow
• Volkswagen AG Follow

Sign up here.

Reporting by Daniel Wiessner in Albany, New York

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. , opens new tab

Thomson Reuters

Dan Wiessner (@danwiessner) reports on labor and employment and immigration law, including litigation and policy making. He can be reached at [email protected].

Read Next / Editor's Picks

Industry Insight

Luc Cohen, Susan Heavey

David Thomas

Mike Scarcella, David Thomas

Karen Sloan