Verona, a city sometimes overlooked on the path between Milan and Venice, is a truly special place that offers so much more than just its famous Shakespearean connections. It’s a perfect destination for a weekend break, or even longer, with its walkable historic center, beautiful river, and a wealth of things to see and do that feel both grand and intimate.
Experience the Arena di Verona
The Arena di Verona is an absolute must-see. This ancient Roman amphitheater, dating back to 30 A.D., is remarkably well-preserved and still hosts incredible events. Imagine gladiators and chariots once filling this space; it’s quite a thought.
The summer opera festival held here is world-renowned. Even if you aren’t a seasoned opera fan, the performances are often chosen to be accessible to a wider audience, and the setting itself is breathtaking. It’s truly a unique way to experience live music.
Attending an Opera Performance
If you plan to see an opera, prepare yourself for the historic setting. Sitting on the ancient stone steps for a few hours can be tough on the knees, so bringing a cushion is a practical tip. Also, remember it’s open to the elements, so a jacket is a good idea.
The atmosphere during a performance is electric. The sheer scale of the Arena and the quality of the productions make it an unforgettable experience. Many operas premiered here before touring globally.
Exploring the Arena During the Day
Even if opera isn’t your preference, visiting the Arena di Verona during the day is still highly recommended. You can walk through the vast stands and imagine the history that unfolded here. It gives you a real sense of its past purpose.
The architectural details are fascinating, and the sheer size of the structure is impressive. It’s easy to spend a good hour just soaking in the atmosphere and admiring the stonework.
Dinner Near the Arena
A great tip before an evening at the Arena is to have dinner on Piazza Bra, the square right outside. There are many restaurants here offering lovely views and delicious food, setting the perfect mood for the evening ahead.
People Watching on Piazza Delle Erbe
Piazza Delle Erbe, the Square of the Herbs, is the heart of Verona’s social life. This beautiful square is lined with historic buildings, a lively market, and countless cafes and restaurants.
I found myself spending hours here, just finding a spot on a cafe terrace with a coffee or a glass of Prosecco. It’s the perfect place to watch the world go by, with locals and visitors alike browsing the market stalls or admiring the surrounding architecture.
The Market and Its Treasures
The market in Piazza Delle Erbe offers a variety of goods, from fresh produce to souvenirs. It’s a colorful and lively spot that adds to the square’s dynamic energy.
While enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, it’s wise to be mindful of your belongings, as it can attract pickpockets due to its popularity.
Architectural Wonders
The buildings surrounding Piazza Delle Erbe are a testament to Verona’s wealthy merchant past. You can spend a lot of time just looking up at the ornate facades and imagining the history they hold.
The frescoes on some of the buildings add an extra layer of beauty. It’s a square that truly invites you to linger and explore.
Climb Torre Dei Lamberti
For panoramic views of Verona, a climb up Torre Dei Lamberti is essential. This medieval tower stands tall and offers stunning vistas over the ancient city.
You can choose to climb the 368 steps – a good way to work off some of that delicious Italian food – or take the convenient elevator to the top for a quicker ascent.
Views from the Tower
The reward for your effort is spectacular. From the top of Torre Dei Lamberti, you can see the terracotta rooftops, the winding Adige river, and the surrounding landscape spread out below.
It’s a fantastic spot for taking photos and getting your bearings in the city. Seeing the layout of the old town from this vantage point is truly special.
A Family Perspective
I remember Michael pointing out different landmarks from the top of the tower, and even little Lily, at seven, was amazed by how small everything looked. Ethan, our four-year-old, was just thrilled to be going up in the lift!
Visit Juliet’s House
Verona is forever linked with Shakespeare’s lovers, Romeo and Juliet, and Juliet’s House is a popular stop for many visitors. While fictional, the romantic notion of the story is palpable here.
Stepping onto Juliet’s balcony, even amidst the crowds, evokes a sense of romance. The house itself belonged to the Cappello family, whose name is similar to Juliet’s, adding another layer to the lore.
The Famous Balcony
The iconic balcony is certainly the main draw. You can queue up to have your photo taken on it, which can be a fun, if busy, experience. It’s very much part of the Verona experience for many.
The courtyard below is also filled with people, many leaving notes or touching a statue of Juliet for good luck.
Sending a Letter to Juliet
A unique aspect is the Juliet Club. You can actually write a letter or email to Juliet with your love dilemmas, and they say you might even receive a reply. It’s a charming touch that embraces the romantic legend.
Walk Along the Adige River
The Adige River gracefully encircles much of Verona’s old town, creating beautiful scenery and lovely walking paths. It’s Italy’s second-longest river, originating in the Alps.
Taking a stroll along its banks offers a different perspective of the city, with picturesque bridges and opportunities for great photos, especially at sunset.
Historic Bridges
Several bridges cross the Adige, each with its own character. The Ponte di Castel Vecchio, a fortified bridge from the 1300s, is particularly striking and a wonderful spot for evening light.
Even older is the Ponte Pietra, a Roman stone bridge dating back to 100 B.C. It’s incredible to walk across something so ancient and still in use.
A Relaxing Family Stroll
One afternoon, we took a leisurely walk along the river. Lily enjoyed spotting ducks, and Ethan was fascinated by the boats passing by. It was a simple but lovely way to spend time together in a beautiful setting.
Ride the Funicular to Castel San Pietro
For one of the best panoramic views of Verona, take the funicular up to Castel San Pietro. The ride itself is a pleasant experience, and the destination offers a stunning vista.
From the top, you get a sweeping view of the entire old city, the river, and the surrounding hills. It’s particularly beautiful as the sun begins to set.
Sunset Aperitivo
At the top, there’s a bar, making it the perfect spot for a sunset aperitivo. Enjoying a drink while taking in the view is a wonderful way to cap off a day of exploring.
The castle itself, though not always open to the public for extensive exploration, sits in a commanding position and adds to the scenic beauty.
Explore the Giardino Giusti
If you appreciate beautiful gardens, the Giardino Giusti is a true gem. This Renaissance garden is meticulously maintained, with tall cypress trees guiding you through its various sections.
The garden includes a maze, which was a hit with Lily, and offers peaceful spots to relax and enjoy the greenery. Many famous artists and writers, like Goethe and Mozart, have found inspiration here.
A Slice of Tranquility
Wandering through the Giardino Giusti provides a welcome sense of calm away from the busier city streets. The layout is elegant, and the scent of flowers fills the air.
The various terraces and viewpoints within the garden offer delightful discoveries as you explore. It feels like stepping into a different, more serene world.
Best Places to Eat in Verona
When in Italy, you’re practically guaranteed great food, and Verona is no exception. While some spots directly on tourist squares can be overpriced, delicious options are plentiful.
For breakfast, I loved grabbing a coffee and a brioche, perhaps one filled with pistachio cream, on a terrace in Piazza delle Erbe. A small local bakery is also a great find for a quick treat.
Lunch on the Go
If you need a quick and affordable bite between sights, Pizzeria Zio Lele is a good choice. They offer a wide variety of pizzas, many available as slices, making it perfect for a casual lunch.
Family Favorite Pizza
Ethan absolutely devoured his pizza slice here. It was an easy and satisfying option that kept us going for our afternoon explorations.
Dinner Recommendations
For a classic Veronese dinner, you must try Risotto Amarone. This dish uses local rice and the region’s famous Amarone red wine, creating a rich and comforting flavor.
Bottega Vini is a historic restaurant that offers a wonderful setting to enjoy this local delicacy. Pairing it with a bottle of red wine is highly recommended.
Shopping in Verona
Verona offers a delightful mix of shopping experiences, from high-street brands to charming independent boutiques and antique shops. The pedestrianized old city center makes browsing a pleasure.
Around Piazza delle Erbe, you’ll find antique shops selling everything from Roman coins to art deco pieces. It’s a great place to hunt for unique souvenirs.
Fashionable Streets
Corso Sant’Anastasia and Corso Porta Borsari are two beautiful streets lined with upscale boutiques and shops, all set against stunning historic architecture. Window shopping here is an activity in itself.
For those looking for designer bargains, there are outlet shops located on the outskirts of Verona, offering high-end fashion and home decor at discounted prices.
Staying in Verona
Verona offers a range of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets. From romantic historic hotels to self-catering apartments, you can find the perfect base for your visit.
For an exceptionally romantic stay, consider Sogno di Giulietta, located within the complex of Juliet’s House, offering rooms with views of the famous balcony. It’s a splurge, but certainly a memorable experience.
Charming Boutique Stays
Alternatively, you can find lovely family-run guesthouses across the river from the old center. These often offer personal service and a more budget-friendly, yet still historic, stay.
For those who prefer to manage their own meals or travel with family, looking for an Airbnb in the historic center can provide a comfortable and convenient option, some even featuring their own Juliet balcony.
RV Travelers
If you are traveling by RV, there are camping villages nearby that offer parking and facilities.
Verona Card
For maximizing your visit, especially if you plan to see several museums and use public transport, consider purchasing a Verona Card. It provides free or reduced entry to many attractions and helps you get around the city easily.
Verona is a city that truly enchants. From its ancient history and romantic legends to its beautiful river views and delicious food, it offers a perfectly balanced Italian experience.