Travel Guide for Visiting Verona, Italy!

Verona Travel Guide

Why Visit Verona?

Verona, in Northern Italy’s Veneto region, is famous for its beauty and romantic vibe. It’s the city where Shakespeare set “Romeo and Juliet,” and it’s easy to see why people fall in love with it. With its ancient history, charming streets, and stunning scenery, Verona is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a taste of Italian romance.

Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.

How Many Days Do You Need in Verona?

To truly appreciate Verona’s charm and explore its main sights, I recommend spending a minimum of two days in the city. This allows you ample time to visit iconic landmarks like the Arena di Verona, Juliet’s House, and Castelvecchio, as well as to leisurely wander through the historic streets and indulge in the local cuisine.

Best Time of Year to Visit Verona/Weather

Verona tends to have hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months when the weather is pleasantly warm, and the tourist crowds are relatively smaller compared to the peak summer season.

TIP: If you’re planning on renting a car in Italy make sure to check out Rentalcars.com. Also, make sure your car is allowed to cross borders if you plan on driving into different countries. Compare car hire here.

What to Pack for Verona?

When packing for Verona, I brought lightweight and breathable clothing perfect for layering. I didn’t find it too cold when I visited in winter, but if you are visiting in the shoulder season, layers will come in handy. Definitely also bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city’s cobblestone streets. This will be a city where you will do a lot of walking.

Travel Safety Products

Clothing Essentials

  • Lightweight tops,bottoms, and dresses that transition from day to night.
  • Comfortable walking shoes (trust me, there will be a lot of walking on cobblestone streets).
  • Swimsuit and cover-up.
  • Bag with a zip, pickpockers are real in Europe!
  • A lightweight jumper for the chilly nights.
Verona Travel Guide

Sights and Activities in Verona

Juliet's House (Casa di Giulietta) in Verona entrance ticket
TIP: This sells out. Book before arriving in Verona
Verona Arena Skip-the-line Tour
Duomo Climb and Baptistry Museum Crypt Cathedral Entrance Tickets

What to Do in Verona

Verona offers plenty to explore. You can visit the Arena di Verona, a well-preserved ancient Roman amphitheater that hosts concerts and operas. Take a stroll through the old town’s narrow streets, where you’ll find medieval buildings, lively squares, and cozy cafes. Don’t miss the chance to climb Castel San Pietro for amazing views of the city, or take a leisurely walk along the peaceful Adige River. Whether you’re into history, art, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Verona has something for everyone.

Main Sights to See in Verona

  1. Arena di Verona: A well-preserved Roman amphitheater hosting opera performances and concerts.
  2. Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta): A popular tourist attraction featuring the famous balcony associated with Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Tip: The Courtyard is free to visit!
  3. Piazza delle Erbe: Verona’s lively market square surrounded by historic buildings and outdoor cafes.
  4. Castelvecchio: A medieval castle housing a museum with art and artifacts.
  5. Ponte Scaligero: An iconic medieval bridge spanning the Adige River, offering picturesque views of the city.

If you are looking for more tips about visiting Europe? Make sure to check out my Essential Packing List for Europe in Summer! 2 or 4 Weeks and 24 Tips for Traveling Europe.

Day Trip to Verona and Sirmione

For those staying in Verona, a day trip to nearby Sirmione is highly recommended. Sirmione, located on the shores of Lake Garda, is known for its picturesque castle, Roman ruins, and thermal baths. It’s a perfect complement to your Verona itinerary, offering a relaxing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. With careful planning, you can explore the highlights of both Verona and Sirmione in just one day, making it a memorable addition to your stay in Verona. (Check out the day trip here)

Verona Travel Guide
Verona Travel Guide

Areas to Stay in Verona

  • Historic Center (Centro Storico): Offers easy access to major attractions like the Arena di Verona and Piazza delle Erbe. This is the perfect area if it’s your first time visiting Verona.
  • San Zeno: A quieter neighborhood with charming streets and proximity to the Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore.
  • Borgo Trento: A residential area with a local vibe and good dining options, slightly away from the tourist crowds.

Where to Stay in Verona

During my visit to Verona, I stayed at Hotel Accademia, a lovely hotel right in the city center. It was the perfect base for exploring Verona, with comfortable rooms and friendly staff. Plus, its location near the Arena di Verona and other attractions made it super convenient. Whether enjoying breakfast on the rooftop terrace or relaxing in the cozy lounge, Hotel Accademia felt like a home away from home. (View Hotel Accademia here)

Watch my Stay at Hotel Accademia

TIP: Hotels in Italy get more expensive the closer you get to your travel days, and they do get booked up. As soon as you know your travel dates, book your hotel. I use Booking.com for most of my hotel bookings.

Verona Travel Guide
Verona Travel Guide

Where to Eat in Verona

Verona is a food lover’s paradise, with trattorias and osterias serving up delicious Venetian cuisine. From classic pasta dishes to fresh seafood and tasty desserts, there’s something for every palate. During my stay, I tried local specialties like risotto al Amarone and pastissada de caval, a hearty horse meat stew. Whether dining in a charming square or a historic restaurant, Verona’s food scene is sure to impress.

Restaurants to try in Verona

Pizzeria Porto
$$ – $$$
Italian
Pizza, Mediterranean
Risotteria Porto Mancino Sangiovanni
$$ – $$$
Italian
Mitiko! - Ristorante Pizzeria
$$ – $$$
Italian
Pizza, Campania

Final Thoughts on Verona

Leaving Verona, I felt grateful for the unforgettable experiences I had in this beautiful city. Its romantic charm, rich history, and welcoming atmosphere left a lasting impression on me. Verona reminded me of the magic of Italy’s hidden gems, and I can’t wait to return someday.

If you are looking for more tips about visiting Italy? Make sure to check out my Tips for Hiring a Car and Driving in Italy and Pretty Small Towns in Italy to Visit!

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