It is not hard to find a reason to fall in love with Verona. Maybe it is because of the legendary tale of Romeo and Juliet, which unfolds within its streets. Or it is the power of opera or the combination of the city’s charm with its historical sites. Whether you come here on a day trip or spend a weekend here, there is no shortage of things to do in Verona. Get ready to fall in love with this city. You will find plenty of attractions to keep you occupied for a few days.
Why is Verona famous?
Verona is the largest city in the Veneto region (followed by Venice). It is most famous for the setting of Shakespeare’s love story ‘’Romeo and Juliet’’. But that is not all: Verona is famous for opera, has a UNESCO status, and has the largest concentrations of Roman ruins after Rome.
Did you know that this city claims to have more Roman ruins than any Italian city besides Rome? Because of that, many people call it “little Rome”.
This city is also worth visiting because it is one of the most beautiful cities in northern Italy. This gorgeous city is 2,000 years old and is only a short drive from beautiful Lake Garda and the Valpolicella vineyards. Verona is also one of the best day trips from Venice.
The top best things to do in Verona
You’ve made an easy decision to explore this city. Now comes the harder part, when you need to decide what to do in Verona. Here is our list of the best things that you cannot miss.
Top things to do in Verona for history lovers
1. Roman amphitheatre
If you find yourself in this Italian city, visit the Roman amphitheatre. Let’s take a closer look at this famous attraction in the city and see why you should add it to your itinerary.
Here’s where it get’s juicy: this Roman amphitheatre is one of the oldest structures in the city. The locals built this large monument with a white and pink façade in the 1st century AD. The 2,000 years old Verona Arena is the third largest amphitheatre of its kind, after Rome’s Colosseum and the arena in Capua near Naples. It is the eighth largest among all Roman arenas in the world. Also, it is one of the best preserved Roman amphitheatres. And it is still in use today.
Because of that, visiting this Roman amphitheatre is one of the best things to do in Verona.
Did you know that this amphitheatre once could hold almost the entire population of Roman Verona? The original arena could seat 30,000 spectators who came from across the region. They would come here to watch shows and games where the gladiators would fight each other and with animals. Later during its time, it has seen executions and also bullfights.
This arena has dimensions of 152 by 123 metres. Its seating area had once three different levels – each for a different social class. The locals built it outside of the city. They wanted to avoid potential overcrowding of the city centre.
FUN FACT:
Did you know this amphitheatre served as the inspiration for Dante’s ‘’circles of Inferno’’?
The Roman amphitheatre is also one of the best places to visit because it hosts a range of musical performances. Every July and August, the arena comes alive with the Opera Festival. It is one of the major summer music events in Europe. 44 rows of seating can accommodate 22,000 spectators. But do not wait for too long – tickets sell out quickly.
GOOD TO KNOW:
This amphitheatre is not open on Mondays. Otherwise, you can visit it every day from 9 am until 7 pm, except for the day when there are performances. Also, it is not open on Sunday May 18th 2024 for Pope Francis’s visit. The entry ticket to the Roman amphitheatre costs €17 per person, free with the Verona Card. If you visit on the first Sunday of the month, you will pay only one euro.
TIP:
If you plan to visit more attractions in the city, get the Verona Card. A 24-hour card costs €27, and a 48-hour card is €32, as of May 2024. This way you can save a lot of money because your main attractions and buses in the city are free.
2. Scaliger Tombs
Maybe you do not know, but Scaligeri were once a powerful family. They ruled in this city and the Veneto region in Northern Italy for 125 years. The Scaligeri family ruled the city throughout the 13th and 14th centuries. During this period, this city had a golden age.
Finding the Scaliger Tombs is one of the best things to do in Verona because they are a fine example of Gothic architecture. These funerary monuments of the rulers of this city are an extraordinary family necropolis. Look for the family symbol – the ladder motif of the Della Scala Family. You can find it on five tombs and the iron fence that separates the cemetery from the street.
Tombs which you can see, belong to different Lords of Verona. The statues of Cangrande I (above the church door) and Mastino II are only copies of the originals. You can find them now at the Castelvecchio Museum.
GOOD TO KNOW:
You can find the Tombs of the Scaligeri in a court outside the church of Santa Maria Antica. You can enter the courtyard during the summer (June – October) from Tuesday to Sunday. The opening times are from 10 am – 1 pm and 2 pm until 6 pm. The Verona Card holders do not need to pay for an entrance ticket.
3. Castelvecchio
If you want to soak up the city’s rich past, Castelvecchio deserves a place on your itinerary. Castelvecchio is one of the best achievements of the ruling Scaligeri family. Cangrande II built this impressive castle in the 14th century on the side of the Roman fortress.
Exploring Castelvecchio is one of the best things to do in Verona because this defensive castle houses one of the finest art galleries in the Veneto outside Venice. The Castelvecchio Museum has an impressive collection of sculptures from the Middle Ages, jewellery, swords and armour. It also has famous works by Bellini, Rubens, Pisano and artists from the 15th and 16th century Veronese school. Also, do not miss the 14th-century statue of Cangrande I from his tomb.
Castelvecchio is, however, not only about the architecture. It is also about the views. You are quite right to think that the walls of Castelvecchio provide beautiful views of the city and its bridges.
GOOD TO KNOW:
You can find Castelvecchio just outside of the medieval walls. As of May 2024, the entry ticket to Castelvecchio costs 6 euros per person (free with the Verona Card). You can visit Castelvecchio and its museum every day from 10 am – 6 pm, except on Monday.
4. Arco dei Gavi
We would also recommend you check out the Arco dei Gavi. You can find this Roman monument just outside of the city walls. You can easily visit it during your city walk – it is right next to Castelvecchio.
The prominent Gavi family commissioned the construction of the Arco dei Gavi in the 1st century AD. Originally this 12 metres high marble monument was a gate into the city. You probably do not know, but the arch no longer stands in its original place. It stood in its original position over the road leading into the city until the French engineers destroyed it during Napoleonic rule. Later the locals rebuilt it and relocated to this small square next to the castle.
Seeing the Arco dei Gavi is one of the best things to do in Verona because this Roman monument is a rare example of a privately funded monumental Roman arch. During the Renaissance, this arch was one of the most admired monuments in the city. Today it is a part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Old Town.
5. Roman Theatre
For those who want to learn more about the city’s Roman past, find the Roman theatre on the hillside below Castel San Pietro. The Roman Theatre is one of the best places to visit because it is one of the oldest attractions in the city. Moreover, the Roman Theatre is a reminder of the Roman Imperium. Even though it is in ruins, it is well worth a visit.
This Roman Theatre dates back to the first century BC. The Romans built this theatre during the reign of Emperor Augustus. Later they abandoned it, and the locals excavated it in the 20th century. The remains of the stage, the orchestra, the auditorium and some galleries are still visible today.
Exploring the Roman Theatre is one of the best things to do in Verona if you would like to better understand the city’s history. The entry ticket to the Roman Theatre is valid to the nearby Archaeological Museum, where you can see Roman mosaics, Etruscan and Roman sculptures and much more. Also, the Roman Theatre host outdoor performances in the summer, such as Verona Jazz Festival.
GOOD TO KNOW:
The Roman Theatre and the Archaeological Museum are open every day except Monday. You can visit them from 2 pm until 6 pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays or 10 am – 6 pm Thursdays to Sundays. Free with the Verona Card, or you pay 4.50 euros (as of May 2024) if you do not have one.
Top things to do in Verona for Shakespeare lovers
6. Juliet’s Balcony
If you are a fan of Shakespeare, chances are that visiting Juliet’s House is one of the main reasons you want to visit this city. Juliet’s House, or Casa di Giulietta as the locals call it, is one of the most famous places. Many consider it one of the most romantic attractions in the world. Because of that, visiting Juliet’s House is one of the best things to do in Verona for Shakespeare lovers.
Juliet’s House has become a pilgrimage for fans of the play and the story of Romeo and Juliet. Thousands of tourists flock here every year to see the legendary balcony and to take a picture with the statue of Juliet. They even rub her bronze statue for good luck.
DID YOU KNOW?
Here’s where it get’s juicy: the legendary story of Romeo and Juliet is purely fictional. Shakespeare never visited Italy, and his play is only his imagination. There is also no proof that Juliet lived in this house. In fact, the city purchased this small palace with an attractive courtyard only in 1905. They wanted to keep Shakespeare’s tale alive and attract more tourists. They even added the famous balcony overlooking the garden in the 1930s.
Juliet’s House is a perfect example of Gothic architecture in the city. Inside this 12th-century house, you can find the museum. It shows furniture that replicates how Juliet’s House would have looked like. You can see here the famous bed from the Zeffirelli movie version. Also, you can read sections of the play in each room.
GOOD TO KNOW:
If you are seeking an authentic experience, you should know that Juliet’s house is the most visited attraction in the city. It is also the most overrated tourist site in Italy. The commercialization surrounding Juliet’s House and the never-ending queues to take a picture can be overwhelming.
Whether or not to visit the so-called Juliet’s House depends on your interest. It is worth a visit if you are a big fan of the play or the weather is not great and you would like to be inside.
If you want to visit Juliet’s House and take pictures on the balcony, buy a ticket. As of May 2024, there is a fee of €12, but you do not need to pay if you have a Verona Card. Remember, you must buy our ticket online at www.museiverona.com and reserve your ticket even if you have a Verona Card. Also, do not forget that Juliet’s House is open only between Tuesday and Sunday (9 am – 6 pm). Alternatively, visit the courtyard where you can see the famous house with the balcony for free anytime.
7. Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore
You cannot see this city without visiting the Basilica of San Zeno. The locals built this minor basilica between the 10th and 14th centuries – on a site of the previous church from the 4th century. You can find it at the Piazza San Zeno. It is a 12-minute walk from Castelvecchio, outside the main city centre.
One of the main reasons Romeo and Juliet’ enthusiasts flock here is that the Basilica of San Zeno is the fictional place of the marriage of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Yes, you are right – the crypt of this basilica was the setting where the famous couple got married in the book.
However, that is not the only reason to see the Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore. Did you know the Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore is one of the best-preserved examples of Romanesque architecture in Northern Italy? This beautiful church with a freestanding bell tower also houses holy relics of the city’s patron saint. You can find his body in the crypt of the basilica.
Because of that, visiting the Basilica of San Maggiore is one of the best things to do in Verona.
WHAT TO SEE INSIDE:
If you look closely, you can see that a silver mask covers the face of the city’s patron saint. The crypt is his resting place since the 10th century. If you do not know, Saint Zeno had African origin and led this city to baptism.
Other highlights of the basilica are a beautiful wooden ceiling and bronze door panels with biblical stories and scenes from the life of Saint Zeno. There is also a red marble statue of the smiling St. Zeno from the late 13th century. The Basilica of San Zeno has valuable works of art, such as medieval wall paintings and the triptych of the altar. Also, do not miss the cloister, with the tower and a few remaining spaces. That is all that remains of the Benedictine Abbey of Saint Zeno.
GOOD TO KNOW:
The Basilica of San Zeno is open Monday – Friday from 9 am until 6.30 pm (Saturday only until 6 pm). You can visit this basilica on Sundays or holidays between 1 pm and 6.30 pm. As of May 2024, buy a single entrance ticket for 4 euros or a combined ticket where you can see 4 churches for 8 euros.
Top things to do in Verona for the best views
8. Piazza Bra
Piazza Bra, or Bra as the locals call it.
It is easy to see why many tourists start their tour in Piazza Bra. Piazza Bra is not an average square. It is the largest square in the city – some even claim it is the largest square in Italy. This bustling square is home to colourful restaurants and charming outdoor cafes. You can also find here several notable buildings. The highlights are palaces dating back to the 15th and 18th centuries and, of course, the famous amphitheatre. This large open square shaded by trees and a fountain is perfect for people-watching. Also, many walking tours depart from this piazza.
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9. Piazzale Castel San Pietro
Let’s face it – you cannot take a trip to this city without visiting the Piazzale Castel San Pietro. This pretty square sits on the hill on the left bank of the Adige River. Probably you do not know it, but this place has been inhabited since Roman Times. You can visit the Roman Theatre and the Archaeological Museum on the way here.
Finding the Piazzale Castel San Pietro is one of the best things to do in Verona because this square offers the most beautiful views over the city. You should know that the views from Piazzale Castel San Pietro are the best around sunset. There is also a castle which sits on the site of the Roman fortress, but it is not open to the public.
GOOD TO KNOW:
You should know there is a little trek to get up here if you choose to walk. Alternatively, you can take the funicular to the Piazzale Castel San Pietro.
10. Castelvecchio Bridge
Scaliger Bridge or Castelvecchio Bridge, as the locals call it.
After visiting Castelvecchio, do not forget to explore the nearby Castelvecchio Bridge. This iconic 120-metre (394 ft) long bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in the city from the Scaligeri family. During its construction, this arch bridge had the world’s largest span. Today the Castelvecchio Bridge is one of the most popular photo spots because it overlooks the castle and the river.
The brick and marble bridge, decorated in the same style as the walls of the nearby castle, is traffic free. The fortified Castelvecchio bridge has several series of stairs that you can climb to see better views of the castle and the nearby area.
FUN FACT:
Maybe you do not know, but this bridge was the escape route for the powerful Scaligeri family from the castle. This bridge should grant them a safe way of escape in the case of an attack. The bridge survived until the German troops totally destroyed it during WWII. The locals rebuilt and reopened it within a few years.
11. Giardino Giusti
It is also worth visiting the Giardino Giusti, which you can find east of the city centre, not far from the Piazza Isolo. The gardens are behind the 16th-century palace, which has the same name.
Strolling through the Giardino Giusti is one of the best things to do in Verona for scenic views. This fine Renaissance garden from the 16th century offers some of the best city views. Moreover, the Giardino Giusti is one of the best examples of an Italian garden.
The Giardino Giusti has separate sections with different patterns of hedges. The garden shares many similarities with the Medici gardens, including fountains, statues, and even a grotto. The Giardino Giusti is an ideal place for a picnic. It is also a perfect attraction if you want to escape the summer heat.
GOOD TO KNOW:
You should know there is a fee to get into the gardens. As of May 2024, tt costs €12, and you can visit both – the gardens and the palace. Verona cardholders get a 3 euro discount on their ticket. You can see the Giardino Giusti from 10 am – 8 pm Monday – Friday or 9 am – 8 pm Saturday and Sunday during the summer. If you visit in the low season, the gardens are not open on Mondays.
12. Climb Torre dei Lamberti
If you have any energy left, climb the Lamberti Tower, which you can find just a short walk from Juliet’s house. This iconic building from the 12th century is one of the most famous landmarks in the city.
What makes the Torre dei Lamberti unique is you can distinguish the two construction periods. The locals used two different types of stone for the older tower to give it a striped appearance. After a few centuries, they heightened the tower to the current 84 metres (276 feet). They also updated it with a clock when the clock on the nearby Torre Gardello stopped functioning.
Today climbing the Torre dei Lamberti is one of the best things to do in Verona because it is the tallest tower in the city. But that is not all – the Lamberti Tower which dominates the skyline of Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori, offers beautiful views of the city centre. You can even see the Adige Valley and the surrounding hills.
GOOD TO KNOW:
As of May 2024, the entrance fee to climb the Lamberti Tower is 6 euros (free with a Verona card). You can climb the tower from 10 am – 6 pm Monday to Friday or Saturday and Sunday between 11 am and 7 pm.
13. Piazza dei Signori
If you have spare time, there is one more square you should visit. It is the Piazza dei Signori, but many call it the Piazza Dante. Why, you may ask? It’s because you can find the three-metre statue of Dante in the centre of the square. The locals made it in the 19th century in memory of the 600th anniversary of the poet’s birth.
The Piazza dei Signori dates back to the Middle Ages. This small square surrounded by palaces became the most important place in the city during the Venetian domination. It had political and administrative functions. Today, the Piazza dei Signori is one of the best places to visit because on the western side of this square is the famous Torre dei Lamberti.
Among the monumental buildings is the Palazzo del Capitano (Dante looking at). It was once home to the city’s military commanders. There is also the Palazzo del Governo, which was once another residence of the Scaligeri family and the Palazzo della Ragione. Behind the statue is the Loggia del Consiglio. This beautiful building is one of the finest Early Renaissance buildings in the country. If you look closely, you can spot statues of famous citizens on the top.
14. Piazza delle Erbe
Piazza delle Erbe
Afterwards, stop at the Piazza delle Erbe, which you can find just round the corner from the Piazza dei Signori. The charming Piazza delle Erbe is one of the most beautiful squares that decorate the Old Town. You maybe do not know it, but this square got its name after a market that takes place here regularly. If you arrive on the right day, you will find a fruit and vegetable market here. The stalls shaded by umbrellas sell everything from herb-flavoured olive oil to wild mushrooms and snacks.
But that is not the only reason you should find the Piazza delle Erbe. The Piazza delle Erbe offers beautiful views of medieval buildings with Renaissance frescoes and towers. This marketplace with the 84-metre-tall Lamberti Tower is a perfect place for a sit-down meal in one of the restaurants with outdoor terraces.
Visiting the Piazza delle Erbe is one of the best things to do in Verona because this rectangular square is another scenic spot in the city. Moreover, the Piazza delle Erbe stands on the original site of the Roman Forum.
WHAT TO SEE:
The highlight of this square is a marble column with the lion of St Mark, which reminds us that this city was once under Venetian rulers. The masterpiece of this square is the fountain which you can see in the middle. This 14th-century fountain has a statue dating back to Roman times. The Madonna di Verona from 380 AD serves as a reminder that the Piazza delle Erbe has been used as a marketplace for 2,000 years.
FUN FACT:
Find a whale rib hanging from one of the arches leading to the Piazza della Signori. The legend has it the whalebone should fall on the first honest person to walk under the archway. In fact, this giant whalebone used to advertise the store by the arch that offered exotic goods. The whale rib has been here since at least the 1700s, but some suggest that it’s for much longer.
Top things to do in Verona for church lovers
15. Verona Cathedral
Finding Verona Cathedral is one of the best things to do in Verona if you like to explore churches.
If visiting churches is your thing, there is also Verona Cathedral. This cathedral, or Duomo of Verona, is one of the oldest religious buildings in the city. The Duomo has a relatively simple façade but features different styles across centuries. The locals built it in the 12th century in the area, where were villas with private thermal baths during the Roman times.
Today this Romanesque Cathedral with a Gothic nave includes a complex of buildings linked together. The parts of this complex are the Duomo (cathedral), St Giovanni Fonte (baptistery), St Elena, and the Canonical Museum. Outside is also its cloister with excavated ruins of earlier churches, the library, the bishop’s residence and the bell tower. However, you should know that some parts are not open to the public. Others are open only during a certain period of the year.
The Assumption by Titian
When you visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Matricolare, do not miss Titian’s Assumption decorating one of the side chapels. If you do not know, Titian was one of the most important members of the 16th-century Venetian school. This altarpiece is the only work of this famous Renaissance artist in this city.
The highlights also are the chapel of St. Helen with Roman floor mosaics and the Baptistery of San Giovanni. This 8th-century baptistery has a beautiful honey-coloured font made of a single block of marble. This white and pink marble cathedral has lovely wall paintings and early Christian artefacts.
GOOD TO KNOW:
This cathedral is open from 11 am until 5.30 pm Monday – Friday and 11 am – 3.30 pm on Saturdays. You can visit it from 1.30 pm until 5.30 pm on Sundays. The single entrance fee to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Matricolare is 4 euros (May 2024). As of May 2024, you can also buy a cumulative ticket and visit 4 churches for 8 euros. This special ticket includes entry to the Basilica di San Zeno, the Cathedral Complex, the Basilica di Santa Anastasia, and San Fermo.
16. San Fermo Maggiore
Another historical sight to witness in the city is San Fermo Maggiore. This Romanesque and Gothic church in city centre lies on the banks of the Adige River near Ponte Navi. The locals dedicated it to two saint brothers who were local martyrs from the 3rd century.
Why is San Fermo Maggiore famous?
Though you may not find it on the cover of a tourism magazine, visiting San Fermo Maggiore is one of the best things to see. It is because this church is not one but two churches. Yes, that is right, San Fermo Maggiore is famous because it has a lower church below the main church.
The lower Benedictine church from the 11th century has beautiful wall paintings on the simple arcades. It lies on the site of an earlier sanctuary – the crypt is the only surviving part of the original.
Afterwards, explore a Gothic upper section of the church. It is more impressive and dates back to the 14th century. Do not miss the beautiful ceiling with painted boards. These painted wooden boards are home to 416 saints. The locals painted them on the wooden planks (between 3 and 6 metres long).
The Franciscans commissioned this beautiful ceiling in the upper church.
Also, do not miss a fresco above the Brenzoni monument. It is one of the earliest major works by the famous painter Pisanello. There is also a beautiful 14th-century crucifix which is well worth seeing.
GOOD TO KNOW:
You can visit San Fermo Maggiore until 31st of October 2024 between 9.30 am until 6 pm from Monday until Friday. Alternatively, visit San Fermo Maggiore on Saturday (10 am – 6 pm) or Sunday (1 pm to 6pm).
17. Basilica of Saint Anastasia
The Basilica of Saint Anastasia, with white and red marble columns, has a beautiful soft light.
If there is one more church you should visit when exploring this city, it is the Basilica of Saint Anastasia. The Basilica of Saint Anastasia is, in fact, the largest church in the city. Also, it is the city’s finest example of Gothic architecture.
The locals dedicated it to Saint Peter Martyr. He was a Dominican monk and co-patron of Verona together with Saint Zeno. However, this has the name of St. Anastasia because there was previously an older church dedicated to her on this site. The church you can see today is from the 13th century, but the works continued throughout the 14th and 15th centuries.
You can find the Basilica of Saint Anastasia with the Latin cross plan near Ponte Pietra. This is the oldest part of the historic centre, which was the centre of everyday life. The red brick church does not have a completed facade.
WHAT TO SEE:
Visiting the Basilica of Saint Anastasia is one of the best things to do in Verona because the largest church in the city has a rich collection of paintings by famous painters from this city. The most famous artwork is a wall painting of St. George and the Princess. It is one of the major works by Pisanello. If you do not know, Pisanello was one of the most successful painters of the early Italian Renaissance.
St George Freeing the Princess, which decorates the arch of the Pellegrini Chapel, is a masterpiece of Gothic painting.
Also, do not miss two basins for holy water supported by figures at the church’s entrance. The legend has it that touching their hump brings good luck. Another highlight is the 72 metres (236 ft) tall bell tower. It is famous for its nine bells which ring in a traditional Veronese bellringing style.
GOOD TO KNOW:
You can visit the Basilica of Saint Anastasia between 9.30 am and 6.30 pm from Monday to Friday. Alternatively, visit it between 9.30 am – 6 pm on Saturday or 1 pm – 6 pm on Sunday. As of May 2024, the entry fee to the Basilica of Saint Anastasia is 4 euros. Alternatively, buy a ticket with entry to 4 churches for 8 euros or visit with the Verona Card for free. As of May 2024, you can buy the Verona Card for 24 hours for 27 euros or a 48-hour card for 32 euros.
Other things to do in Verona
18. Take a day trip to Lake Garda.
A day trip to Lake Garda is a perfect idea if you stay in the city longer than 2 days.
If you are looking for an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, Lago di Garda is a place to go Why, you may ask? Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and one of the most famous. It is a popular holiday spot because it has a favourable climate, gorgeous scenery and many attractions nearby.
The highlights of Lake Garda are the towns Bardolino and Sirmione, which is famous for the Rocca Scaligera. This fortified castle near the lake is one of the best-preserved castles in Italy. Lake Garda has clean beaches and Grotte di Catullo (an archaeological site with a Roman villa). You will also find here vineyards and hills, which are perfect for hikers and walkers.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Sirmione on Lake Garda lies only about a 40-minute ride from Verona. You can also take the train from Verona to Sirmione – it will take you around 1 hour to get there. Another town is Bardolino which is only a 40-minute drive away from Verona.
Now you know what are the best places to visit in Verona, Italy!
Have you been to this Italian city? Did we miss anything? Please let us know in the comments below. If you like our post, save it to Pinterest.
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Last updated: 07/05/2024