Verona, the charming city in northern Italy, is often overshadowed by the glitz of Venice or the romance of Florence, but it is a hidden gem brimming with history, art, and culture. Best known as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona is much more than just a romantic backdrop. Its Roman ruins, medieval buildings, and Renaissance squares make it a fascinating destination for history buffs, art lovers, and those simply looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of northern Italy.
Here’s a guide to some of the must-see sights and experiences in Verona.
1. The Arena di Verona
Your journey through Verona should start at its most iconic landmark: the Arena di Verona. This ancient Roman amphitheater, dating back to the 1st century AD, is remarkably well-preserved and still hosts spectacular events today. Although it’s best known for being the venue for the famous Verona Opera Festival in the summer, the Arena also stages concerts, ballets, and other performances throughout the year.
Even if you’re not able to catch a performance, visiting the Arena is a must. It offers a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Roman architecture, and you can wander around the arena’s interior and even sit in the stands to get a feel for what it might have been like during its prime.
- Tip: If you’re visiting in the summer, consider attending an opera performance for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
2. Piazza delle Erbe
One of Verona’s most picturesque spots, the Piazza delle Erbe, is the heart of the city’s medieval market. Surrounded by beautiful buildings, vibrant cafes, and street vendors, this bustling square is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a coffee break. The square has been Verona’s civic center since Roman times, and today it’s lined with stunning examples of Renaissance architecture, such as the Torre dei Lamberti, a tall tower that offers panoramic views of the city.
Don’t miss the Fontana di Madonna Verona, a beautiful fountain at the center of the square. And be sure to visit the Casa dei Mercanti, an ornate Gothic building that once housed merchants trading in the area.
- Tip: Climb the Torre dei Lamberti for the best views of Verona and a glimpse of the distant Alps on a clear day.
3. Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta)
No visit to Verona would be complete without stopping at Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta), the legendary home of Shakespeare’s fictional Juliet. Here, you can see the famous Juliet’s Balcony, where Romeo is said to have wooed his beloved. The house also features a small museum with exhibits about the history of the play and the local traditions surrounding it.
The courtyard of Juliet’s house is often filled with love-struck visitors, many of whom leave love notes or lock padlocks on the gates, much like in the popular tradition at the Ponte Milvio in Rome.
- Tip: It’s said that touching the statue of Juliet for good luck in love, especially her right breast, will bring you good fortune in romance. Go ahead—join in the tradition!
4. Castelvecchio and Ponte Scaligero
For a taste of Verona’s medieval past, head to Castelvecchio, a fortified castle located along the Adige River. Built in the 14th century, the castle now houses the Museo di Castelvecchio, an impressive art museum that features works by artists such as Pisanello and Mantegna, as well as a fascinating collection of weapons and medieval artifacts.
The Ponte Scaligero, an elegant stone bridge connecting the castle to the opposite bank of the Adige River, is a remarkable piece of architecture. The bridge’s red-brick towers offer great views of the city, making it a perfect spot for photos.
- Tip: Don’t miss the chance to walk across the Ponte Scaligero, which offers one of the best views of the river and surrounding scenery.
5. Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore
One of Verona’s most beautiful churches is the Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore, located a short walk from the city center. This Romanesque masterpiece dates back to the 9th century and is dedicated to San Zeno, the patron saint of Verona. The church is famed for its stunning bronze doors, beautiful frescoes, and the intricate altar by Andrea Mantegna, which depicts the St. Zeno altarpiece.
The peaceful square surrounding the basilica offers a tranquil escape from the busy city center, and its proximity to the Adige River provides a picturesque setting.
- Tip: Be sure to visit the church’s crypt, which is said to be the final resting place of St. Zeno and features a unique and atmospheric atmosphere.
6. Piazza dei Signori and the Scaliger Tombs
Another important square to explore is Piazza dei Signori, a beautiful Renaissance square that is home to several impressive buildings, including the Palazzo della Ragione, the Loggia del Consiglio, and the Torre dei Lamberti.
The Scaliger Tombs, located nearby in Piazza dei Signori, are also a must-see. These elaborate tombs, which belong to the powerful Scaliger family that ruled Verona in the 13th and 14th centuries, are some of the most striking medieval monuments in Italy. The tombs’ intricate Gothic design is a testament to the wealth and influence of the Scaliger family.
- Tip: Spend some time admiring the detailed carvings on the Scaliger Tombs, which depict scenes from the family’s history.
7. Giardino Giusti
If you’re looking to escape the bustle of the city, the Giardino Giusti, a magnificent Renaissance garden, is the perfect place to relax. Located just outside the city center, this well-maintained garden features beautifully manicured hedges, classical statues, and tranquil fountains. The garden offers sweeping views of the city and the surrounding hills, making it a peaceful retreat.
- Tip: The garden is a great spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk. Make sure to visit the grotto, which features a cool, shadowy atmosphere perfect for a break on a hot day.
8. Wine Tasting in Valpolicella
Verona is located in the heart of the Valpolicella wine region, famous for its bold red wines, including Amarone and Valpolicella Classico. Many local wineries offer wine tours and tastings, where you can learn about the region’s winemaking process and sample some of the finest wines Italy has to offer.
- Tip: If you have time, consider taking a half-day trip to the nearby wine villages of Fumane, Negrar, and Sant’Ambrogio, where you can visit traditional wineries and enjoy stunning views of the rolling vineyards.
Travel options from Verona Airport
Verona Villafranca Airport (Aeroporto di Verona), located about 12 km from the city center, is a well-connected gateway for travelers heading to Verona and the surrounding regions of Veneto. Whether you’re visiting Verona for its historic sites or using it as a base to explore the Veneto wine region, the airport offers several transport options to get you into the city and beyond.
1. Bus Services
The most affordable way to travel from Verona Airport to the city center is by bus. The Aerobus shuttle service operates regularly between the airport and Verona Porta Nuova train station, the main transportation hub in the city. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes and buses run every 20-30 minutes, depending on the time of day. A one-way ticket costs around €6.
2. Taxi and Ride-Sharing
Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals terminal, offering a direct and convenient way to reach your destination in Verona or you can book online using taxiveronaairport.com
A taxi ride to the city center typically takes 15-20 minutes and costs between €20-€25, depending on traffic. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available, though taxi services are generally more common in Verona.
3. Car Rental
For those looking to explore beyond Verona, renting a car is a great option. The airport has several well-known car rental agencies, including Avis, Europcar, and Hertz, located in the terminal. Renting a car gives you flexibility to visit nearby towns such as Lake Garda or Venice at your own pace.
4. Private Transfers
For added comfort and convenience, private transfer services are available, allowing you to book a direct ride to your hotel or destination in advance. This option is ideal for those with lots of luggage or arriving during late hours.
Conclusion
Verona is a city that captivates visitors with its blend of romance, history, and art. From ancient Roman ruins and medieval castles to Renaissance gardens and charming piazzas, Verona offers a rich cultural experience for travelers of all interests. Whether you’re admiring the city’s stunning architecture, learning about its legendary connections to Romeo and Juliet, or savoring local wines, Verona’s charm will leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits. So, pack your bags and set off for this enchanting city—you won’t regret it!
