25 Things To Do in Verona – Italy

Verona is a city famed for her art, beauty, and romance.

It was in Verona that Alaric and his Hunnic hordes were stopped, saving Western Civilization from a descent into hell. Here too did the Lombards made their forlorn and final stand against Charlemagne. In Verona arose one of the earliest Republics in the world. And it was also here that Dante, Giotto, and Petrarch sought refuge when the whole world was against them.

Verona’s charm, beauty, and wisdom is what drew Shakespeare to make it his setting for Romeo and Juliet. Set in the bustling region of Veneto, Verona is right up there with other great Italian cities like Padua, Vicenza, and the great Venice herself. It would have been easy to fall into the cracks and disappear, but Verona did not. Rather, Verona has managed to retain her unique identity as one of the premier tourist destination areas in the world. There is so much to see and things to do in Verona that the city sees millions of visitors every year.

Now, first thing first; go pick up that VeronaCard. It gets you reduced or free entry into many Veronese churches, monuments, museums, and attractions. With this in hand, it means you save more for more later on. Plus the card helps you avoid queues in the Verona Arena and also you can use all means of public transportation within Verona with the card.

That done…walking shoes on…water bottle set…fanny pack secure…Andiamo!

A Short and Quick History of Verona

Verona first appeared on the map as a settlement of the ancient Euganei, a Latin people that have long since disappeared as they were absorbed into larger groups like the Veneto. Then it turned Gaulish as the Cenomani took over the area at about 500 BC. While the Cenomani would later join the Roman Republic as steadfast allies, nothing of their culture, art, or architecture remains to us.

Verona thus truly takes off as a Roman colony in 89 BC. Verona remained a quiet place, almost invisible in the face of the greater geopolitics of the Roman Republic and later Empire. Even so, one of the things to do in Verona includes a trip to the Arco dei Gravi, a monument erected in the 1^st century BC, and Ponte Pietra, one of the oldest bridges in the world. Moreover, there are Greco-Roman artifacts in the Lapidario Maffeiano Museum from this period. You should get your tour guide to regale you with tales from this period of history and see whether you can pick out differences.

History is quiet about Verona over the next 500 years or so, but even so, some leftovers from time give us things to do in Verona. For one, in 2005 a ‘Miniature Pompeii’ was found under a derelict hotel in Verona. Archeologists date the recently discovered ruins to about 300 AD, a very tumultuous time in Rome’s history called the Crisis of the Third Century. Get a head start on the history of the Roman Empire as I get around to adding the entries!

Verona’s action begins sometimes in the Dark Ages if we go by what survives from then. There is the magnificent marble eminence that is the 5^th century Romanesque San Zeno Maggiore and her really ancient library. Your Verona tour guide should tell you more about it and if they don’t, let them know you had it on your list of things to do in Verona. There is also the San Fermo Maggiore from the 11^th century, the San Giorgio in Braida, and the 15^th century Chiesa dei Santi Nazaro e Celso. All these churches and more come with their own histories, arts, and stories to hear.

That said, let’s take a slightly closer look at the biggest places for things to do in Verona.

Map of 25 Best Things To See and Do in Verona

Top Things To See and Do in Verona

1. Piazza Bra

Tips for visiting Piazza Bra

1. Shops usually open at around 9:30 am and most close by 9 pm
2. Bring your walking shoes; Piazza Bra is very open space and good for simply walking around.
3. Plan 1-2 hrs just walking the shops, pavilions, and seeing fountains and other stuff
4. Parking spots are closest to here

Reasons to be here:

1. The cobblestone streets make lovely music as you stroll in the evening.
2. There are restaurants and cafes with awnings projecting good cover should the Summer Sun be too much.
3. A fountain and a small garden here at the square, all watched over by a magnificent statue of Italy’s first king, Victor Emmanuele II.
4. Piazza Bra is splendid as a central staging point because of the other activities and things to do in Verona. For example, you can pop into the Giardini Vittorio Emmanuelle II, Palazzo Barbieri, Gran Guardia Palace, and the City Hall.
5. Most other sites and monuments in Verona are within a mile or 3 of Piazza Bra. These include a good parking area called the Parcheggio Interrato Cittadella, museums, Piazzas, and churches like Chiesa di San Fermo Maggiore.

2. Arena di Verona (Roman Arena)

Tips for visiting Arena di Verona

1. Ticket booths close at 8 pm
2. Arrive early
3. No dress code enforced
4. Few toilets around, and only at ground level. Really dark too!
5. No food allowed inside.
6. Operas begin around 9 pm, and end around 1 am
7. During summer months carry a hat, the sun is pretty harsh.
8. Get the Verona Card to avoid queues plus with the cards you can visit many of the places on this list and also use all means of public transport within Verona.

Why here?

1. Ancient stadium seating 30, 000 spectators would watch gladiators slashing and hacking at each other back when Rome was at its greatest.
2. It was made from white and pink limestone from the Valpolicella region. When an earthquake struck in the 12^th century, some of the stone was grabbed to build other buildings in the city.
3. Check out the Piazza delle Erbe, Castelvecchio Museum, Castelvecchio Bridge, Juliet’s House, Ponte Pietra, Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, Lamberti Tower, and the Duomo di Verona (Verona Cathedral) close by.
4. Entry into the arena comes at a fee.
5. The VeronaCard gets you in for free and fast without queuing up, though you have to pay extra when they host opera events.

3. Castelvecchio Museum

Tips for visiting Castelvecchio Museum

1. Pedestrian-friendly
2. Free entry with VeronaCard
3. They charge 1 euro on the 1^st Sunday between Oct – March
4. Wear comfy walking shoes; lots of walking during the tour!
5. Schedule 1 – 2 hrs

Why here?

1. “Old Castle”, the Castelvecchio Castle, was built by Cangrande II della Scala in 1354-1356. Time cost the castle, letting it become run down before it was re-modeled as a museum in 1925.
2. The museum now houses a vast collection of medieval, Renaissance, and modern art like paintings, sculptures, weapons, ceramics, and ancient artifacts. Some of the great paintings are from artists such as Pisanello, Mantegna, Bellini, Veronese, Tiepolo, and Tintoretto.
3. The museum attracts crowds because of the restorative works by Carlo Scarpa. Plus, there is the drawbridge, great walls, and picturesque views of the garden from the castle walls.
4. Within 3 miles of the Castelvecchio Museum in Verona, Italy, tourists can visit the Verona Arena, Piazza delle Erbe, Juliet’s House, Ponte Pietra, Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, and Lamberti Tower.

4. Castelvecchio Bridge

Location: Corso Castelvecchio,2, 37121 Verona

Tips for visiting Castelvecchio Bridge

1. It is free to walk here, and open 24/7 so be careful about scams.
2. Visit during Sunsets
3. Very good spot for photos with the museum as a backdrop
4. Wear comfy shoes
5. Summer comes with events and shows
6. Come early/late to avoid crowds

Why come here?

1. Also known as Ponte di Scaligero, Castelvecchio Bridge was built in 1356 from red and white brick.
2. Stopping by the bridge should rank high on the things to do in Verona simply because of its proximity to the Castelvecchio Museum, Verona Arena, Piazza Bra, Piazza delle Erbe, and Casa di Giulietta (also known as Juliet’s House).
3. It crosses over the beautiful Adige River?
4. Interestingly, this bridge was intended as an escape route for the ruling families of Verona during times of crisis within Verona herself, telling you something about the political realities of Italian cities.

5. Ponte Pietra

Location: Ponte Pietra, 37121

Tips for visiting Ponte Pietra

1. Come during Sunrise and Sunsets
2. Cafes and restaurants close by have great views of the Roman Theatre close by
3. Wear comfy shoes for the trips around the winding streets around the bridge
4. Several events during Summer hosted here

Why schedule a trip here?

1. Created in 100 BC of brick and rock by the Romans, later renovations saw the white limestone replaced with red limestone, giving it that beautiful look.
2. Like Castelvecchio Bridge, stopping by here is great for your list of things to do in Verona because it gets you closer to other sites and monuments like Arena di Verona, the Archaeological Museum, the panoramic views at the Piazzale Castel San Pietro, the Duomo di Verona (aka Verona Cathedral), Piazza delle Erbe, and Casa di Giulietta or Juliet’s House.
3. Again, like Castelvecchio Bridge, it is all about the photo spots and beautiful walks
4. Also, free and open 24/7, history and architecture students find making this visit a must-see of things to do in Verona. The Ponte Pietra’s supporting arches are all in different sizes and come with lessons in Roman engineering. And when tired of the studies, the sunset here is glorious!

6. Piazza delle Erbe

Location: Piazza Erbe, 16, 37121 Verona

Tips for visiting Piazza delle Erbe

1. The eastern side is great for walking
2. Mornings are quiet, evenings are loud

Why come here?

1. It has hosted a lively market since 100 AD, in addition to having served as Verona’s ancient social gathering and political center.
2. Legend has it that the whale rib over Arco della Costa would tell whether the person passing under it was an honest person. I don’t know whether the legend is true, but Piazza delle Erbe, aka “the Square of Herbs” has numerous stalls where fresh farm produce and souvenirs can be found alongside cafes, restaurants, and gelateria.
3. Tour operators want you here because Piazza delle Erbe connects you to Torre dei Lamberti, Palazzo Maffei, the Casa dei Mercanti (House of Merchants), the Fontana di Madonna Verona (Fountain of Madonna Verona), Arco della Costa, Palazzo Ragione, Casa dei Giudici, and the Renaissance era frescos at the Mazzanti House. Piazza delle Erbe is also like a stone’s throw from Piazza dei Signoria’s historical center, Juliet’s House (Casa I Giuletta), Ponte Pietra, and Verona Cathedral (Duomo di Verona).

7. Torre dei Lamberti

Tips for visiting Piazza delle Erbe

1. Mid-day gets really crowded
2. Great spot to enjoy traditional Veronese food

Why here?

1. The Lamberti family-built Torre deo Lamberti in 1172 as part of the general publicity stunt great families in the age did. It stands 84 m tall and the 368 steps to the top are part of the reason tourists include the climb in their list of things to do in Verona.
2. Another reason that tour operators will give is that the tower has a gorgeous panoramic view of the city right at the top after the exhausting climb.
3. Historically, the ringing of the bells was a significant event for the city’s residents. Rengo’s ringing would call citizens to arms in case of attack, while Marangona’s toll told people work was over or there was a fire somewhere in the city.
4. Stopping by here connects you to sites and monuments like Palazzo Maffei, Casa dei Mercanti (House of Merchants), Fontana di Madonna Verona (Fountain of Madonna Verona), Arco della Costa, Palazzo Ragione, Casa dei Giudici, Mazzanti House, Juliet’s House (Casa I Giuletta), Ponte Pietra, and Verona Cathedral (Duomo di Verona).

8. Piazza dei Signori

Location: Piazza dei Signori, 37121 Verona

Tips for visiting Piazza dei Signori

1. Café’s  and restaurants open till late
2. Evenings are the best time, especially with the night sky
3. Some events and performances during evenings can be seen

Why here?

1. The Scaliger family allowed the creation of Piazza dei Signori in the 1300s, making a new political center. It is also called Piazza Dante because of Dante’s statue in the square, and today, many events and activities take place in the square.
2. The vibrancy of the square can be seen via the number of historical buildings here: Palazzo della Ragione, Loggia del Consiglio, Palazzo del Podesta, and Palazzo di Consignorio.
3. Additionally, Tour Operators like making this a ‘must-see’ of things to do in Verona because of its proximity to Piazza delle Erbe, Juliet’s House, Torre dei Lamberti, Verona Cathedral, and the Scaliger Tombs (Arch Scaligere).

9. Juliet’s House

Tips for visiting Juliet’s House

1. Gets really busy between May – September
2. Mid-day gets packed!
3. They stop issuing tickets at 6: 45 pm
4. Viewing the statue in the courtyard is free
5. You have to pay to get to the balcony
6. Carry glue, pen, and paper to leave a love note
7. Rub – not fondle – Juliet’s right breast for good luck
8. Skip the line tickets available online
9. 15 – 20 min is good enough to see the museum

Why come here?

1. A major tourist site due to the romantic balcony and courtyard, Juliet’s House is over 700 years old and comes with an interactive museum for visitors.
2. The statue has been replaced several times because of the inconceivable number of hands on her bosom, and the balcony is a clever 20^th-century production made to get more romantics to come over!
3. Near-by attractions include Piazza delle Erbe, Piazza dei Signori, Torre dei Lamberti, and the Verona Arena.

10. Basilica di Santa Anastasia

Tips for visiting Basilica di Santa Anastasia

1. Free entrance during Mass/Musical events
2. Be quiet and respectful
3. The audio guides are very detailed
4. Kill the flash on your camera and phone
5. Dress appropriately, i.e., covered shoulders and knees, modest dress etc

Why place the basilica on your itinerary?

1. Dedicated to St. Anastasia, a Roman-era martyr, the Basilica di Santa Anastasia is a 13^th-century church with a bell tower free to enter that you can climb to gain a panoramic view of the city.
2. It is filled with art, especially given the numerous remodels the church has undergone over time.
3. My reason for listing the Basilica di Santa Anastacia on my itinerary of things to do in Verona was the stained-glass windows within the Gothic design of the church.
4. Exiting the church to walk over to the Verona Arena, Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta), Piazza delle Erbe, and Ponte Pietra can be a good experience.

11. Basilica di San Zeno

Tips for visiting Basilica di San Zeno

1. VeronaCard means FREE entry
2. Ticket booths close 15 minutes before close
3. Dress respectably
4. Be quiet and respectful of others around the cloisters
5. They host special events and concerts sometimes
6. The acoustic during Mass are awesome!

Why come here on your busy schedule?

1. Though first built in the 4^th century, most of its Romanesque look is from the 11^th century. It is dedicated to St. Zeno, the subject of many of the frescoes you will see there.
2. Romanesque architecture
3. Rose windows
4. A triptych of the Madonna and Child by Mantegna
5. Romeo and Juliet wed here in the crypts
6. Please donate something to help with upkeep. It is a very serene and spiritual building to visit as part of the things to do in Verona.
7. Close to the city center, getting here from any of these sites: Juliet’s House, Piazza delle Erbe, Verona Arena, and Castelvecchio Museum, is easy.

12. Chiesa di San Fermo Maggiore

Tips for visiting Chiesa di San Fermo Maggiore

1. Incredible acoustics during services and concerts
2. Respect the quiet as you also take in the serenity of the church
3. Kill the flash on your camera and phone
4. No audio guides, so read up
5. Wear comfy shoes to walk along the river later on

Why come to this small church?

1. San Fermo Maggiore’s Romanesque architecture comes from the 8^th century, though some Gothic elements remain.
2. It is filled with paintings and frescoes, to say nothing of the crypt containing Saint relics from Rustico and Fermo.

13. The Scaliger Tombs

Tips for visiting The Scaliger Tombs

1. Pay something small to see the monument up closer
2. Get here early morning/late afternoon
3. Weekday mornings are less crowded
4. Read up before coming here, or somehow engage the tour guide to know more about the symbolism of the architecture and art such as the chains around the tombs
5. Local artists nearby sell artworks
6. You’d need about 20 minutes to be done here.

Why here?

1. Built in the 13^th century during the height of the Scaliger Family’s power, the appearance of the Scaliger Tombs is perfect for art students looking to see what Gothic Art really gives a place. It is all about the marble tracery, ornate reliefs, and symbolic motifs all designed to send a message to the viewer gawking below.
2. Nearby sites and monuments include the Church of Santa Maria Antica, Piazza dei Signori, Lamberti Tower, Juliet’s House, Piazza delle Erbe, the Verona Arena, and Castelvecchio Museum

14. Cathedral of Santa Maria Matricolare

Tips for visiting The Cathedral of Santa Maria Matricolare

1. Come early morning or late afternoon
2. They host classical music concerts here sometimes
3. Side chapels have some really fantastic art pieces
4. The acoustics are also incredible
5. Kill the flash on your camera, but don’t forget to grab the photos as you gawk
6. The church undergoes frequent restorations, so check online to see when to visit
7. Dress respectfully

Why come here after seeing so many other churches?

1. The collection of religious relics, including a veil St. Veronica used to wipe Jesus’ face during the crucifixion.
2. Plus, any tour operator worth their stuff should be able to throw in the delicious details on the royal coronations, ceremonies, and events that took place here.
3. This 4^th-century church located on the Piazza Duomo can be visited for free and is a good place to jump into while waiting for the lines at Juliet’s House or Verona Arena to lessen.
4. Finally, a good staging post to see Ponte Pietra, the Roman Theatre, Giardino Giusti, Castel San Pietro for panoramic city views, Piazza delle Erbe, and Piazza dei Signori.

15. Civic Museum of Natural History

Tips for visiting The Civic Museum of Natural History

1. Sometimes they have special exhibits so check their online presence
2. Weekends draw larger crowds, especially those with families!
3. Don’t know about the Guided Tours, especially when they are hosting special exhibits, so think on this one
4. Kill the flash on your cameras to help with preserving some of the art
5. Wear comfy shoes to walk along the Adige River later on
6. People with disabilities have it good here

Why the Civic Museum of Natural History?

1. Created in 1851, the Civic Museum of Natural History has a river-front view of the Adige River that in itself is worth the inclusion in our list of things to do in Verona.
2. Donations, research, and purchases, including workshops, exhibitions, and programs have given the museum a wide array of fossils, minerals, rocks, animal, and botanical specimens.
3. Close to the Roman Theatre and Archaeological Museum, Ponte Pietra, the Verona Cathedral, Piazza delle Erbe, Piazza dei Signori, Lamberti Tower, and Juliet’s House.

16. Roman Theatre

Tips for visiting The Roman Theatre

1. Some performances during evening during the Summer
2. The Museum section is not wheelchair accessible
3. Sunsets present great photo opportunities
4. Wear comfy shoes because the steps can be rough and uneven
5. They allow guys with picnics in the gardens around!

Why include the Roman Amphitheatre in your itinerary?

1. The Roman Theatre was built in the 1^st century BC as part of Rome’s ambitious and loud renovation campaigns following the civil and social wars. With a good tour guide, you should be able to take away good tales of just how Verona itself weathered those trying times.
2. The Roman Theatre seats thousands and would let Roman citizens gain a panoramic view of their city, and at the same time, their sense of place in the world as Romans.
3. Today, exhibitions here are the mainstay, as well as theatrical performances, cultural exhibitions, concerts, and film screenings.
4. Great spots to spend time at include the Ponte Pietra, Castel San Pietro for a panoramic view of Verona, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Matricolare, and the Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore. Also, check out the vibrant Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori for local events, markets, and festivals that capture the spirit of Verona.

17. Piazzale Castel San Pietro

Tips for visiting Piazzale Castel San Pietro

1. Wear comfy shoes
2. Area is safe enough for nighttime visits and views of Verona’s cityscape
3. Very picnic-friendly locale!
4. Sunsets here are fantastic
5. A funicular ride from Via San Stefano, 12, can be another way to enhance the experiential memory

Why come spend a few hours here?

1. The Piazzale Castel San Pietro just mentioned is recently new at being a 19^th-century creation. Yet, it is set against San Pietro Castle, itself built on the hill ten centuries ago.
2. The Alps can be seen from the Piazzale, making it a must-go-to on a list of things to do in Verona. Just the walk up to the Piazzale is epic enough with the Scala della Salita al Castel San Pietro’s mix of natural and man-made creativity.
3. Entry is free, and the Piazzale Castle San Pietro is absolutely gorgeous right around evening as the Sun goes down.
4. The good thing about leaving this place last on your list of things to do in Verona for the day is its closeness to the San Pietro Castle Ruins, the Ponte Pietra, the Scaliger Tombs, the Church of San Giorgio in Braida, and the opportunity to take slow walks along hiking trails.
5. If you find yourself out of drinking water or famished, there are restaurants and cafes close by as well.

18. Archeological Museum

Tips for visiting the Archeological Museum

1. Use the VeronaCard to get in at a cheaper rate
2. Late afternoon and weekday mornings have less crowds around
3. The audio guides seem to have good detail on exhibitions hosted here
4. Local tour guides seem to have deep knowledge of intimate stuff about the Museum and its artifacts

Why come here as well?

1. The Archeological Museum used to be a Benedictine Monastery before turning into a museum in 1924.
2. Now, there are a host of artifacts from prehistoric, Roman, and medieval periods, including sculptures, pottery, coins, and mosaics collected both locally and from further off.
3. Many would list the Archeological Museum among the things to do in Verona because of the Gavi Archaeological Park’s ruins of old Verona.
4. Tour Operators will direct your group here because it is really close to other sites and monuments like the Roman Theatre, Ponte Pietra, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Matricolare, Piazzale Castel San Pietro for stunning city views, Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore, Juliet’s House, the Scaliger Tombs, Piazza delle Erbe, and Piazza dei Signori.

19. Arco dei Gavi

Tips for visiting Arco dei Gavi

1. They light it up at night
2. Read up on its history for an informed experience
3. There will be many walking along the River
4. Less crowded here compared to other sites and monuments

Why come here as well?

1. The Arco dei Gavi is a limestone structure whose beauty lies in the Corinthian columns and detailed reliefs. It is good for a quick visit and inclusion on your list of places and things to do in Verona because of its proximity to parks, gardens, and the Adige River’s banks, to say nothing about that photo shot with ancient ruins at your back while you are dressed like Indiana Jones.
2. Close enough to Castelvecchio and its museum, the Castelvecchio Bridge, Piazza Bra and the Verona Arena, Piazza delle Erbe, Juliet’s House, the Scaliger Tombs, Lamberti Tower, and the Church of San Lorenzo. If the other places are crowded, spend a few minutes walking along the river.

20. Giusti Gardens

Tips for visiting Giusti Gardens

1. View from up the Belvedere is the best thing about coming here
2. Each season comes with its niceness; Blooming flowers in Spring, greenery in Summer, and foliage in Autumn
3. Late afternoon gets you the best light for your photos
4. Saw painters around

Why spend an afternoon reading in the gardens here?

1. Created during the Renaissance period, the Giusti Gardens are a very good addition to your itinerary of things to do in Verona because of the lush greenery right in the heart of Verona.
2. You can have photo opportunities, picnics, and scenic walks among manicured lawns and trimmed hedges without having to go far from your hotel.
3. Plus, it is one of the few places in Verona where you will see Italian-styled gardens when many go for the English style.
4. Being on the Via Giardino Giusti means you can drop here and rest up while exploring nearby sites such as the Roman Theatre and Archaeological Museum, the Adige River, Ponte Pietra, the Verona Cathedral, San Zeno Maggiore Basilica, Castel San Pietro for a stunning overlook of Verona, Piazza delle Erbe, and Juliet’s House.

21. Santuario della Madonna di Lourdes

Tips for visiting Santuario della Madonna di Lourdes

1. Early morning or late afternoon has fewer visitors around
2. The grounds and small chapels are good spots for quiet reflection
3. Trails hiking up to the sanctuary are pretty good though a sweat
4. Wear comfy shoes
5. Picnics are a good idea around the sanctuary

Why visit this serene spot in the hills?

1. Just mentioned in the entry on the lovely Giusti Gardens, the Santuario della Madonna di Lourdes also deserves listing on your itinerary of things to do in Verona because it is one of the few spiritual places dedicated to our Lady of Lourdes in the world.
2. Only established in the 19^th century, it has already become a major place of meditation and prayer for many.
3. Others also visit for the stained glass imagery and the religious paintings. The subject of these paintings depicts the apparitions of the Virgin said to have appeared in France to Saint Bernadette Soubirous in Lourdes, France.
4. Popular spots to look into that are nearby include Castel San Pietro for panoramic views, Ponte Pietra, the Roman Theatre and Archaeological Museum, the Verona Cathedral, Giardino Giusti, Piazza delle Erbe, Juliet’s House, and the Scaliger Tombs.

22. Cimitero Monumentale

Tips for visiting the Cimitero Monumentale

1. Early morning and late afternoon bear the best atmosphere for visits here
2. Spending 1-2 hrs here is okay as there is a lot of art to appreciate
3. Wear comfy shoes to get through all the paths with ease

Why plan for a visit here?

1. Created in 1876, this cemetery is beautifully landscaped and tree-lined, an appropriate resting place for the creators, artists, and musicians of Verona. …and politicians…
2. Some tombs include the Gothic-styled Tomb of the Scaligeri that houses Cangrande I della Scala and Mastino II della Scala. The Tomb of the Poets pays homage to Dante and Andrea Mantegna, while the Tomb of the Musicians lists names like Giovanni Battista Tiepolo and Antonio Salieri.
3. It is a somber place, but thankfully the soothing waters of the Adige River and the Giusti Gardens are close by.
4. It is also free to enter, another reason to visit.
5. For architecture lovers though, the Neoclassical, Gothic, and Art Nouveau styles are what will definitely make the list of the Cimitero Monumentale in their itinerary of things to do in Verona.
6. After visiting the Cimitero Monumentale, you might want to explore nearby attractions such as the Verona Cathedral, Castelvecchio and its museum, the Arco dei Gavi, Piazza Bra and the Verona Arena, Piazza delle Erbe, Juliet’s House, the Scaliger Tombs, and Giardino Giusti.

23. Veronese Cuisine

Veronese cuisine is rooted in the rich culinary tradition of Verona. Verona offers a delightful array of flavors and textures that reflect the region’s diverse influences and any visit to this awesome city deserves a few hours trying out some dishes as part of the things to do in Verona.

One must-try dish is the Pandoro. The Pandoro is a traditional Christmas cake characterized by its golden, star-shaped appearance and fluffy texture served dusted with powdered sugar. Each bite of Pandoro is a heavenly blend of buttery richness and subtle sweetness, making it a beloved treat for locals and visitors alike.

For those craving savory delights, Verona boasts the Sopressa salami, a cured meat prized for its robust flavor and tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Accompanied by crusty bread and local cheeses, Sopressa salami offers a savory indulgence that captures the essence of Veronese gastronomy.

Finally, there is the dreaded Pastissada de caval, a hearty stew made with horse meat marinated in red wine and aromatic herbs. Brimming with bold flavors and tender meat, this traditional Veronese delicacy showcases the region’s rustic charm and culinary prowess, providing a truly memorable dining experience in Verona’s vibrant culinary scene.

Where to try these dishes?

1. Osteria Sottocosta, close to Torre dei Lamberti, offers a cozy ambiance and authentic Veronese cuisine. Diners can savor traditional dishes like Pastissada de caval, expertly prepared with tender horse meat slow-cooked in a savory wine sauce, capturing the essence of Veronese gastronomy.
2. Trattoria ai Piloti is located near the Adige River close to Piazza San Zeno. Trattoria ai Piloti delights diners with its rustic charm and flavorful Veronese fare. Here, guests can indulge in specialties such as Soppressa salami, served alongside freshly baked bread and local cheeses that showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage.
3. Ristorante Greppia is close to Casa di Giulietta and the perfect stopover for wine after the tears you shed at Juliet’s House. The restaurant offers Risotto all’Amarone, a creamy rice dish infused with the rich flavors of Amarone wine alongside tender pieces of locally sourced meat or vegetables.
4. Antica Bottega del Vino is a former tavern that seems to have retained its lively atmosphere. Located on the Vicolo Scudo di Francia and right in the heart of the city, guests can sample Pandoro, the iconic Veronese Christmas cake, paired with a glass of local wine.
5. Ristorante Al Pompiere…I loved the wooden beam ceiling, intimate seating, and the wall pictures. They were a wonderful way to pass over my regret at the Pastissada de caval! Tucked away in an alleyway near Piazza dei Signori, Ristorante Al Pompiere needs reservations but also comes with outdoor seating to allow your enjoyment of the bustling night scene in Verona.

24. Water Sports: Rafting and Boat Rides

If you’re itching for some aquatic adventures around Verona, Italy, then a quick trip to Lake Garda 1.5 hours away should definitely be included on your itinerary of things to do in Verona! I saw two tour companies: Adige Rafting and River Tribe, that offer excursions starting from spots like Mori. Fortunately for me, there are expert guides to lead the way as you navigate the river’s twists and turns, dodging rapids and soaking up the stunning scenery of the surrounding valleys and vineyards. I didn’t quite work out how to take photos along the way though…

Additionally, Tour operators like Navigarda and Garda Lake Boat Tours offer scenic cruises departing from various lakeside towns, including Peschiera del Garda and Bardolino. Glide along the lake’s serene surface, taking in panoramic views of quaint villages, historic castles, and the breathtaking backdrop of the Alps.

25. Day trips from Verona

Verona is located in an ideal spot from which to venture out and visit any of the many wonderful cities and locations in the area.

(A.) Lago di Garda, that is, Lake Garda

Consider a day trip to Lago di Garda, just a short drive from Verona. Here, you can enjoy boat rides, lakeside dining, and breathtaking landscapes. It’s the perfect getaway.

Lake Garda is such a beautiful spot that the powerful family thought nothing of building this home over 40 kilometers from the centre of their power back in Verona.

(B.) Scaligero Castle in Sirmione on Lake Garda

Another pleasant day trip is to visit the Scaliger Castle, in Italian its Castello Scaligero (also known as the Rocca Scaligera or the Rocca di Sirmione).

Verona’s Scaliger family placed its mark on Lake Garda via the Scaliger Castle in the 13^th century.

Sirmione and Lake Garda Tour from Verona

Of course, the castle itself is very impressive! I love the swallow-tail battlements and walls with the tiny windows looking out over the lake.

It really puts the Medieval period into perspective if you think hard on it because even with Lake Garda’s incredible beauty, the Scaliger could only gaze out onto the lake via such small openings.

As one of Italy’s top most visited places in the country, entry is at a fee and the castle opens all week long save for Mondays from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm Tuesdays to Saturday, and only till 12:45 pm on Sundays.

(C.) Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona

And slightly north of the city of Verona is Santuario Madonna della Corona (Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona), a true hidden gem in more ways than one.

The sanctuary is built into the side of a cliff, overlooking the valley of the Adige river and it’s 774 metres above sea level. The spot not only looking out over a valley way down below, but also seems to hang suspended in the air.

Legend has it that it was because a shepherd boy found a painting of the Virgin Mary in a cave that they decided to build this incredible sanctuary here.

After renovations, it now looks like part of the natural surroundings, blending not just into the cliff, but with its white marble look, the chapel appears as if it is a hidden church hovering in the clouds.

I totally recommend visiting Santuario Madonna della Corona and if you can taking the pilgrimage, best during spring or Autumn, as the views along the pilgrim are picturesque and the way is peaceful and the way was practically empty.

Watch the Pilgrimage at Santuario Madonna della Corona video and if you want to know how to get there, here are 5 Ways to get to Santuario Madonna della Corona

Tips To Hacking Verona!

1. The VeronaCard gets you into these and saves you:

• Arena di Verona – €10
• Castelvecchio Museum – €8
• Lamberti Tower – €6
• Juliet’s House – €6
• Juliet’s Tomb – €4.5
• Basilica di Santa Anastasia – €3
• Cathedral Complex – €3

2. The VeronaCard lets you Skip the Line at the Verona Arena.

3. The VeronaCard lasts 48 hrs.

4. The VeronaCard is valid for the following places:

• Roman Arena
• Castelvecchio Museum
• Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore
• Lamberti Tower
• Juliet’s House
• Basilica di Santa Anastasia
• Roman Theater
• Cathedral Complex
• Juliet’s Tomb
• Chiesa di San Fermo
• Natural History Museum
• Scaligeri’s Tombs
• Galleria d’Arte Moderna Achille Forti
• Maffeiano Lapidary Museum

5. The VeronaCard gets you into the following at reduced prices:

• Museum of the Foundation Miniscalchi-Erizzo
• African Museum
• Giusti Palace and Garden

6. Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas like Piazza delle Erbe.

7. Book tickets in advance for popular sites like the Verona Arena.

8. Take a walking tour to explore hidden gems with knowledgeable guides.

9. Enjoy gelato at Gelateria La Romana for authentic Italian flavors.

10. Visit Juliet’s House, but beware of overpriced souvenirs and crowds.

11. Avoid street vendors selling goods – most are almost likely counterfeits – near tourist hotspots.

12. Stay vigilant of scams involving fake charity collectors or “helpful” locals offering unsolicited assistance.