A Perfect Day Trip to Verona (Italy)

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Verona is a romantic masterpiece tucked in northern Italy, known for its dramatic history, Shakespearean legacy, and stunning architecture. Whether you're following the trail of Romeo and Juliet or marveling at ancient Roman ruins, this UNESCO World Heritage city is full of unforgettable experiences. From medieval bridges and bustling piazzas to quiet gardens and creamy gelato, here are the best things to do in Verona to make the most of your visit.

Verona, an aerial view reveals a tapestry of terracotta rooftops, winding medieval streets, and the gentle curve of the Adige River embracing the historic city

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1. Visit the Verona Arena

Standing tall in Piazza Bra, the Verona Arena is a marvel of Roman engineering and one of the best-preserved amphitheaters in the world. Built in the 1st century AD, it once hosted gladiator battles and public spectacles and today stages grand operas and live concerts. Walking into the arena transports you back in time-its ancient stone seating and elliptical shape are a powerful reminder of Verona’s historic significance. Be sure to check if there’s a performance during your visit.

Verona, the ancient Roman Arena stands proudly in the heart of the city, its grand stone arches echoing centuries of history, opera, and timeless performances

2. See Juliet’s House & Balcony

Verona is forever tied to Shakespeare’s legendary tale of Romeo and Juliet, and a visit to Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta) is a must. Nestled in a small courtyard off Via Cappello, the site features the famous balcony, a bronze statue of Juliet, and a small museum inside the house. Tourists from all over the world come to leave love notes on the walls, take selfies on the balcony, and rub Juliet’s statue for luck in love. While the story is fictional, the romance in the air is real.

Verona, tourists gather below Juliet’s balcony at Casa di Giulietta, surrounded by ivy-covered walls and love notes tucked into the courtyard’s stone crevices

3. Climb Torre dei Lamberti

Towering over Piazza delle Erbe, the Torre dei Lamberti offers sweeping views of Verona’s historic center. At 84 meters tall, this medieval bell tower gives you an unbeatable panoramic look at the city’s red rooftops, piazzas, and winding streets. You can climb the 368 steps or take a glass elevator halfway and then finish on foot. The view from the top is especially beautiful at golden hour-perfect for snapping those postcard-worthy photos.

Verona, Sant'Anastasia Church and Torre dei Lamberti rise gracefully above the historic skyline, blending Gothic elegance with medieval grandeur in the heart of the city

4. Explore Castelvecchio & Ponte Scaligero

Castelvecchio, meaning “Old Castle,” is a stunning fortress built in the 14th century by the powerful Scaliger family. It now houses a museum filled with medieval and Renaissance art, frescoes, and sculptures. After exploring the castle, walk across the Ponte Scaligero, its adjoining red-brick bridge with scenic arches over the Adige River. The bridge is a favorite sunset spot and offers a unique perspective of Verona’s historic skyline.

Verona, Castelvecchio stands proudly along the Adige River, its red-brick walls and fortified towers echoing the city’s medieval past and military might

Verona, Castelvecchio Castle and its iconic red-brick bridge form a striking riverside scene, blending medieval strength with architectural beauty over the Adige

5. Relax in Piazza delle Erbe

As the oldest square in Verona, Piazza delle Erbe is a lively hub surrounded by centuries of architecture. Once the site of the Roman forum, today it’s filled with open-air cafés, fruit and flower stalls, and ornate fountains. Admire the Frescoed Mazzanti Houses, the Madonna Verona Fountain, and the grand buildings like Palazzo Maffei and Torre dei Lamberti. Grab a coffee or an Aperol Spritz, sit back, and people-watch like a true local.

Verona, Piazza Bra glows in the evening light, with lively cafés, historic buildings, and the illuminated Arena creating a vibrant atmosphere at the heart of the city

6. Stroll Through Giardino Giusti

Escape the buzz of the city in Giardino Giusti, one of the finest examples of Italian Renaissance gardens. Located just across the river, this tranquil space features manicured hedges, tall cypress trees, fountains, and statues. The winding paths lead to scenic viewpoints overlooking Verona’s rooftops and church spires. It’s a peaceful escape where you can slow down, breathe in the jasmine, and take in the timeless beauty of Verona.

Verona, the Fountain of the Alps sparkles at the center of Piazza Bra, surrounded by colorful facades and the timeless elegance of Italy’s largest square

7. Shop Along Via Mazzini

For fashion lovers and souvenir seekers, Via Mazzini is Verona’s main shopping street, connecting Piazza Bra with Piazza delle Erbe. The elegant marble-paved lane is lined with Italian and international boutiques, leather shops, and charming gelaterias. Whether you’re hunting for a designer piece, artisan jewelry, or handmade crafts, it’s a great spot to soak in Verona’s stylish side while enjoying a leisurely stroll.

Verona, the view from Piazza Bra towards Via Mazzini reveals a lively promenade lined with elegant shops, marble-paved walkways, and the rhythm of daily Italian life

8. Discover San Zeno Maggiore

Located just a short walk from the historic center, San Zeno Maggiore is one of Verona’s most beautiful and important churches. Known for its Romanesque architecture and peaceful cloister, it’s a quiet sanctuary that many tourists miss. Inside, admire the rose window, 12th-century bronze doors, and the serene crypt where Saint Zeno, Verona’s patron saint, is buried. It’s an atmospheric and spiritual stop that offers insight into the city’s religious past.

Verona, the interior of San Zeno Maggiore impresses with soaring Romanesque arches, soft natural light, and intricate frescoes that reflect the city’s spiritual and artistic heritage

9. Enjoy Authentic Gelato

No Italian adventure is complete without gelato-and Verona doesn’t disappoint. Stop by Gelateria La Romana, Savoia, or Amorino for a scoop of handcrafted heaven. Choose from creamy classics like hazelnut, pistachio, or stracciatella, or try seasonal fruit sorbets made from fresh ingredients. Wander through piazzas or along the riverbank as you enjoy your gelato-because in Verona, every bite feels like a love story.

Verona, a hand holds up a colorful gelato cone against the bright summer sky, capturing the sweet essence of an Italian vacation in every creamy scoop

Final Thoughts
Verona is a city where every alley feels like a fairytale and every piazza holds a piece of history. From ancient Roman ruins to romantic balconies, it’s a destination that captures the heart and soul of Italy. Whether you're in town for a few hours or a few days, these unforgettable things to do in Verona will leave you inspired, enchanted, and ready to return.

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