Would you like to experience Italian Dolce Vita? Then head for Italy, and more specifically Verona, a charming city eternalized by Shakespeare in his immortal Romeo and Juliet. Do you have the song from the musical in mind? Great, let's get started! For any architecture enthusiast, Verona is a must-see destination in northern Italy. It impresses visitors with its impressive arenas, true symbols of a glorious past. Nestled in the heart of a magnificent region, Verona promises 1001 activities. The city abounds in hidden treasures at every turn of its cobbled streets: it's a dream come true! Keep dreaming with these 15 must-do things to do in Verona during your stay in Italy.
1. Verona's cobbled streets, for a peaceful stroll
If beautiful Verona has managed to retain all its charm, it's partly because of its beautiful, well-preserved period buildings. It's true that modernity has made its way into the midst of these pieces of history. But there's still an old-fashioned atmosphere as you stroll from cobbled alley to busy street. It's good to let your steps carry you along, admiring the untouched beauty of yesteryear. The stones of the walls and bridges seem to want to tell us their story... Why not listen in on a leisurely stroll through Verona's city center?
We recommend that you book this guided walking tour of Verona, which will introduce you to its history, must-seesand hidden treasures. You can also choose to book this multi-stop bus tour of Verona you can hop on and off whenever you like to discover all the city's sights.
2. Ponte Scaliger, a work of art in its own right
More than just a bridge, the Ponte Scaliger, or Ponte di Castel Vecchio, resembles a castle wall! Its construction dates back to the Middle Ages, yet it has lost none of its splendor. Unexpectedly, this historic site is one of the most popular places to visit in Verona. And with good reason! You literally feel as if you're walking through a work of art. Sadly destroyed during the Second World War, this superb bridge was quickly rebuilt, perfectly respecting the original. The result is a work of art that reveals the genius of Bevilacqua, the supposed creator of this giant bridge across the Adige.
Tip by Petit Futé : come back and admire the bridge at night, when the lights make it appear with a touch of magic. It takes on a romantic air.
3. La Casa di Giulietta, romantic Verona in the spotlight
Ah, the romance of Verona! Verona is world-famous as the city of Romeo and Juliet. What better way to spend a romantic weekend in Europe? In fact, it's the ideal city for a romantic Valentine's Day getaway. Juliet's House, dating from the XIIᵉ century, actually belongs to the Dal Cappello family, a name similar to Shakespeare's Capulets. And yes, let's not forget that our famous Romeo and Juliet are... fictional characters! Yet the balcony of this beautiful house attracts lovebirds and broken hearts, whose imprint is left on the walls, covered with messages of love. In addition to the famous balcony, one of the highlights of this visit is the statue of Juliet in the courtyard, said to bring good luck in love.
4. Porta Borsari, a historic gateway to the city
Did you know that Verona was once a fortified city? The Porta Borsari was its main entrance. Built in the middle of the Iᵉʳ century AD, it was originally called Porta Iovia. In the Middle Ages, it was then known as Porta San Zeno before taking the name Porta Borsari, probably due to the collection of customs duties carried out by the"Bursarii". Of its former structure, only the exterior façade remains, bearing witness to the end of the imperial era.
Good to know: You can take the City Sightseeing Verona tour to see some of the city's finest landmarks, including the Borsari Gate.
5. Santa Maria Matricolare Cathedral, Verona's Duomo
Every great city has its cathedral, and this beautiful, romantic Italian city is no exception! Verona's Duomo, located in the heart of the historic center near Juliet's House, is the city's most beautiful religious building. Built on the ruins of two churches that collapsed in 1117, the Duomo was consecrated in 1187 in an entirely Romanesque style. The black-and-white-paved interior is as beautiful as it is surprising. Beautiful details adorn the interior and exterior of the cathedral, so keep your eyes peeled!
6. Castelvecchio, Verona's historic fortress
Unsurprisingly, the Castelvecchio (Italian for "old castle") is reached via... the famous Ponte di Castel Vecchio! A 2-in-1 visit that promises to fill you with wonder.
A little anecdote: before it took on its current name, this building was known as the "Castello di San Martino in Aquaro", before the Visconti family had an even more imposing castle built in Verona.
Its history has been eventful, to say the least, over the centuries: arsenal under the Venetians, barracks under the Austrians, then the scene of Verona's trial against the Fascists in the XXᵉ century. Today, this superb XIVᵉ century castle houses the Museo di Castelvecchio, exhibiting paintings, sculptures and other medieval jewelry.
7. The cloister of San Zeno Maggiore, one of Verona's historic treasures
Head away from the city center towards the cloister of San Zeno Maggiore, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, whose church was built between the 11th and 14th centuries. Its campanile, the oldest part of the church, is a reminder of Venetian domination, with its emblematic lion. In this peaceful setting, which is less touristy than many other parts of Verona, you can take your time to admire the façade, adorned with a lucky rose window and framed by beautiful sculptures.
Inside, too, you can take time to admire numerous masterpieces by famous painters such as Montegna and Veronese. The magnificent cloister offers a peaceful spot to relax, between more eventful visits to the city.
8. The Giardino Giusti, a natural masterpiece
The most beautiful French gardens have nothing to envy the Giardino Giusti, a natural masterpiece like no other. This Italian garden, dating back to the late Renaissance, is pure splendor. Declared a National Monument, it offers a verdant walk through natural artistic sculptures. Also heavily destroyed during the Second World War, it has now been restored to its former glory thanks to the care of enthusiasts.
Your stroll takes you to two distinct areas: the lower "Italian-style" section, adorned with fountains and statues, and the upper section, featuring a superb row of cypress trees. We invite you to take the spiral staircase, which leads to a belvedere offering a panoramic view of Verona. Are you ready to take your best vacation shots?
9. Piazza di Brà, the heart of Verona
Piazza di Brà is a must-see in Verona, with the impressive Arena dominating the scene. This was the entrance to the ancient city. Although the amphitheatre is the main monument to see here, other historic buildings mark your visit:
- torre Pentagona,
- palazzo Barbieri,
- the Portoni della Brà.
Piazza della Brà, Verona's largest square, is also full of charming restaurants and a small central garden for relaxing, while being surrounded by boutiques for your shopping moments.
10. The Verona Arena, at the heart of history
The third-largest Roman amphitheater in the world, theArena can accommodate over 20,000 spectators: the promise of unforgettable summer evenings! Clad in pink marble, brick and flint, these superb Italian arenas date back to the Iᵉʳ century. Every year, they provide an exceptional backdrop for the summer lyric opera festival, which has continued to exist since 1913. Don't hesitate to treat yourself to an admission ticket, to walk in the footsteps of our ancestors, more than 20 centuries ago. It's a great opportunity to admire this superb vestige of the past, while learning something new!
Good to know: the Arena is included in the City Pass VeronaCard, which you can book here.
Round off your visit with a visit to the ancient Roman theater on the left bank of the Adige. In its day, it was the venue for numerous events. Nowadays? Almost nothing has changed! Just like our ancestors, we can enjoy fine performances throughout the year (music, theater, etc.).
11. The Piazza delle Erbe, Italian sweetness
Welcome to Verona's oldest square: the Piazza delle Erbe, with its charming Renaissance style. Palaces, period towers and statues set the scene for this exceptional square. Its success is due in no small part to its rich evolution over the years, without a single event to mar its splendor.
Before it became the most beautiful square in the world, it was a Roman forum that housed :
- a Capitol,
- baths,
- temples.
A host of stores framed the whole, making the forum an essential place to live and gather in the past. And it hasn't changed a bit! Bars, restaurants, monuments and stores, not to mention the daily market, continue to bring the square to life today.
A veritable open-air museum, the Piazza delle Erbe offers a formidable leap into the past, while remaining firmly anchored in a more modern context. In short: a pure splendor to be contemplated without restraint!
12. The Lamberti Tower, a panorama like no other
Among the treasures of the Piazza delle Erbe to visit, we recommend the 84-meter-high Lamberti Tower. Like many historical monuments, the Torre dei Lamberti has seen many ups and downs in its long life:
- It was built in 1172 by the Lamberti family, a powerful Veronese family subsequently banished from the city.
- Two bells were added to the tower in 1295, named Rengo and Marangona.
- In 1403, it was severely damaged by lightning.
- Between 1448 and 1463, it was restored, with the addition of the belfry.
- In 1798, Count Giovanni Sagramoso added the clock.
On foot (via a superb 368-step spiral staircase ) or by elevator, you climb to the top of this beautiful tower, which offers an incredible view of Verona and its surroundings. The city, the mountains as far as the eye can see and the Adige River are revealed to you in all their splendor, offering an exceptional panorama .
Take advantage of our partner's special rates and book your ticket for the Lamberti Tower here
13. Sant'Anastasia Church, religious art revisited
Verona'sSant'Anastasia Church, a Gothic masterpiece begun in 1290 by the Dominican friars, reveals its grandiose architecture and eye-catching works of art. Its three naves, supported by twelve marble columns and a vault decorated with plant motifs, reflect a rare elegance. Let yourself be carried away by the beauty of frescoes such as Pisanello's "Saint George frees the princess from the dragon". The Gobbi, two fonts at the entrance supported by statues of hunchbacks, are a symbol of good luck for those who touch them. Don't hesitate!
14. Piazza dei Signori and its superb palaces
At the heart of the Piazza dei Signori - also known as Piazza Dante - you can admire the imposing statue of Dante Alighieri, erected in 1865. But what makes this beautiful square so famous are, above all, the remarkable period buildings that surround it, which can be admired over a caffè on one of the lively terraces. Numerous palaces can be found around this iconic city square:
- the Loggia del Consiglio
- the Torre dei Lamberti, with its view of the Alps,
- the Palazzo del Capitano, the governor's residence,
- the Palazzo Scaligeri with its magnificent staircase.
Nearby, via Mazzini, Verona's famous shopping street, is an ideal destination for vacation shoppers.
15. Lake Garda, close to Verona
For this last point, we're cheating a little, because Lake Garda is about 1 hour from Verona. But it's so exceptional that it's simply a must-see on your trip to this pretty corner of Italy! A vast expanse of water surrounded by verdant rocky escarpments, that's what awaits you. Surrounded by greenery and offering magnificent views of the surrounding mountains, it's quite simply one of the most beautiful lakes in the country, if not in Europe.
Surrounded by charming villages, it also invites you to discover Sirmione. Situated on a peninsula on Lake Garda, it is famous for its historic center, medieval castle and Roman villa ruins. Children will love Gardaland, Italy's most visited theme park.
We recommend booking this half-day guided cruise from Verona. Admire the beautiful natural scenery of Lake Garda and visit the charming village of Sirmione.
Where to stay in Verona
The ancient quarter is the ideal place to stay in Verona. Close to the main points of interest, it also offers an enchanting setting for your suitcases.
- The warmest
A subtle blend of cocooning and elegance reigns at theHotel Europa, a 3-star establishment offering optimal comfort. Ideally located near the train station and historic monuments, it's book your room here.
- The most bucolic
Farther away from the hustle and bustle of the city center, the Hotel Alla Campagna offers a green and quiet setting. The service is perfect and the atmosphere relaxed. The garden is ideal for a quiet break after a day of sightseeing. A beautiful country establishment book here.
- The most charming
Treat yourself to a charming stay at theHôtel Marco Polo. You'll be immersed in a gentle decor that invites you to let go. The spa, with jacuzzi and sauna, adds the final touch of relaxation to your stay. Click here to book this beautiful Verona establishment.
What to see in Verona in 3 days
Do you have 3 days to visit one of Italy's 10 must-see cities? Here's a short itinerary to guide you day by day.
Day 1: Romantic Verona
Your visit begins in front of Juliet's House. Your steps will then take you to the Torre dei Lamberti, Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori. Spend the afternoon at Verona's Arena and Roman Theatre, for a trip down memory lane.
Day 2: Artistic Verona
Between history and culture, you continue your visit to the Scaliger Bridge and the Castelvecchio Castle Museum. This visit actually takes up a good part of the day, which you end gently at the Giardino Giusti.
Day 3: Cultural Verona
Your 3-day weekend ends at Verona's Duomo, followed by a visit to Ponte Pietra and Piazza Brà. In the afternoon, visit the Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, then finish with a bucolic stroll along the Adige.
After so many marvels, you won't be surprised that Verona is one of the 27 must-sees in Italy! Without a doubt, it's the perfect place to plan a romantic weekend close to France. Are you lucky enough to be staying in Italy for a week or two? Verona is ideally situated between Milan and Venice, so make the most of it!
Book in advance below for the hottest things to do during your stay in Verona:
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