Verona VISIT IDEAS
Welcome to Verona, a city of timeless romance, captivating history, and stunning architecture! Nestled in the heart of northern Italy’s Veneto region, Verona is a destination that effortlessly combines the old-world charm of its medieval past with the vibrancy of a modern city.
Verona’s rich history extends beyond its ancient roots. The city showcases beautiful examples of medieval and Renaissance architecture, including the impressive Verona Cathedral and the imposing Castelvecchio, a medieval fortress that now houses an art museum.
Discover the setting of Shakespeare’s legendary love story, “Romeo and Juliet”, as you wander through the narrow streets and discover the pretty squares. Verona invites you to embrace its enchanting atmosphere and create lasting memories in this beautiful Italian city.
Verona City Walk
A stroll through Verona’s old town is an ideal way to immerse yourself in Italian culture. Set aside some time on your walk to stop in a café for a cappuccino and croissant to take in the city. The recommended walk is around 2.5 miles and takes around an hour without stops. We recommend setting aside around two hours for the walk, to not feel rushed.
Piazza Bra
From Hotel Milano (Vicolo Tre Marchetti, 11) turn left and walk toward the Verona Arena. Much of Verona’s long history can be found in old town, the center of which is Piazza Bra and the Roman Arena. Built in 1 BC, and one of the most important well-preserved Roman amphitheaters. Originally, the Arena could seat 30,000 spectators. An earthquake in 1117 destroyed most of the Arena’s outer ring. Today, only four arches from the original outer ring are still intact. Over time, served as the dumping ground for Verona’s garbage and quarry for stone to build other buildings. It was not until the Renaissance that repairs to the Arena began around the 15th century. Today, the amphitheater hosts regular concerts and events. Piazza Bra is also known by the name “Braida”, which comes from the Germanic term “breit,” which means wide.
Via Mazzini
From Piazza Bra, walk down Via Mazzini, Verona’s famous marble shopping street (one block west, parallel to Via Tre Marchetti – where the hotel is located). The Via Mazzini forms a direct connection between the Piazza Bra and the Piazza delle Erbe, around 500m long. Enjoy the window shopping (or shopping!) along via Mazzini.
Juliet’s House
When you reach the end, at the T-intersection with Via Cappello, turn right to visit Juliet’s courtyard and famous balcony (Via Cappello 23). The 6 Euro entry fee is worth the visit, if you are interested, to see the impressive timber frame of a traditional home in Verona, as well as artifacts from the story of Romeo and Juliet. Continuing down Via Cappello (left from Juliet’s house), take your next left onto Via Stella.
Adige River
Follow Via Stella and continue straight onto Via Nizza to the Ponte Nuovo bridge, over the Adige River. Turn left and walk along the river that originates in the Dolomites, knowing the river’s waters flow from where you will soon be skiing. The walking path eventually leads you away from the river and past the Basilica di Santa Anastasia catholic church. Continue to walk parallel to the river until you reach Ponte Pietra – Pietra pedestrian Bridge.
Ponte Pietra & Castel San Pietro
If you have time, the walk up the stairs to the Castel San Pietro is well worth the view over Verona and helps with an orientation of the city. You can also choose to take the funicular up to Castel San Pietro. The funicular (roundtrip ticket: €3,00) takes only about a minute to reach the top, where you can enjoy a stunning view over the city.
The Roman Theater below hosts many outdoor concerts in the summer.
Torre dei Lamberti & Piazza delle Erbe
From Ponte Pietra, walk back into Verona’s old town and towards Torre dei Lamberti, Lamberti Tower, the iconic tower overlooking the city. The tower opens at 10:00 am and is worth the € 6 entry fee to enter and take the lift, especially if you did not walk up to the Castel San Pietro.
From the Piazza delle Erbe, the easiest way to return to your hotel is a walk back down Via Mazzini. If you are interested in exploring Verona more, many of the other side streets will lead you back to the Piazza Bra (Verona Arena) and your hotel.
If you want to learn more about Italian history, culture, or art: here you can find all of Verona’s Museums. For art enthusiasts, Verona offers a variety of galleries and museums, including the Museo di Castelvecchio and the Galleria d’Arte Modern Achille Forti. Immerse yourself in the works of renowned Italian artists and gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s cultural heritage.
As you explore Verona’s culinary scene, prepare to indulge in the flavors of Veneto cuisine. From hearty risotto dishes to exquisite Amarone wines, Verona’s gastronomy delights the senses. Don’t forget to try local specialties like tortellini di Valeggio, a mouthwatering pasta filled with pumpkin, or savor a slice of Pandoro, a traditional Veronese Christmas cake. Check out our Verona Restaurant Recommendations for more information on places to eat.
Several publications also recommend itineraries for spending time in Verona:
New York Times – 36 Hours in Verona
Lonely Planet – Top things to do in Verona
Your hotel is also an excellent resource for recommendations during your time in Verona. Enjoy!
Most stores in Verona are open from Monday to Saturday from 9:00 am until 12:30 pm and from 3:30 pm until 7:30 pm. Many shops are closed on Monday mornings. However, every Monday is market day in Verona. Head to Piazza delle Erbe and check out the fresh Italian specialties and souvenirs sold at the market.