25 Best Things to Do in Verona, Italy

From Roman ruins to rooftop bars, here are the best things to do in Verona, Italy, to experience Verona like a well-informed local.

Verona is often thought of as just the city of Romeo and Juliet, but spend even a day here and you’ll quickly see it’s a lot more than that. It’s compact and easy to explore, but packed with history—from Roman ruins and medieval castles to grand piazzas and quiet corners locals actually use.

I live in Italy and have spent a good amount of time in Verona, exploring it slowly and intentionally, often guided by local recommendations rather than just ticking off the main sights.

This Verona travel guide is a collection of everything I genuinely think is worth doing, eating, and seeing in the city—based on firsthand experience, not just a quick pass-through. Here are the best things to do in Verona, Italy.

* This ‘things to do in Verona Italy ’ guide contains affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top-quality content for free.

Best Things to Do in Verona, Italy

1. Visit the Verona Arena (Arena di Verona)

Begin your Verona itinerary at Verona’s Roman Arena, the city’s showpiece—a remarkably well-preserved 1st-century amphitheater that still earns its keep as one of Italy’s most atmospheric concert venues.

I booked my entrance slot online in advance (a smart move, even with the Verona Card, since timed entry is still required), and skipped what looked like a painful queue winding through Piazza Bra.

Inside, you can climb up into the ancient stone stands, take in the scale of the place, and imagine the roar of gladiators—or the rising swell of a Verdi aria.

In summer, the Arena transforms into an open-air opera house, hosting world-class productions that somehow feel even more powerful under the stars.

2. Take a Stroll Through Piazza Bra

Piazza Bra is Verona’s grand welcome mat—spacious, lively, and flanked by everything from historic palazzi to overpriced cafés with front-row views of the Arena. It’s where locals meet, tourists linger, and street performers keep the energy high.

I’d recommend skipping the tourist-trap restaurants and just soaking up the vibe with a gelato or espresso in hand. It’s also the perfect starting point for exploring the top things to do in Verona: from here, you’re steps away from Via Mazzini’s boutiques, the Arena itself, the old town’s winding lanes, and the river beyond.

Come in the evening when the lights flicker on and the square buzzes with pre-opera anticipation.

3. Stroll Through Giardino Giusti

There’s no doubt Verona is filled with beauty, but the Giusti Gardens may have been one of the top places I visited. The gardens are one of Verona’s most underrated gems—a Renaissance garden tucked away in the Veronetta district, just across the Adige from the main tourist drag.

Originally laid out in the late 16th century by Agostino Giusti, a courtier of the Grand Duke of Tuscany, the garden was designed to impress, with its cypress-lined avenue, sculpted hedges, and a grotto crowned by a massive stone mask.

It’s the kind of place where Goethe once wandered, and where you can still get lost in a hedge maze or climb to a belvedere for sweeping views over Verona’s rooftops. I visited on a weekday morning and had the place nearly to myself—a rare moment of quiet in a city that’s often buzzing with crowds.

Tickets are €13, or €9 with the Verona Card, and include access to the garden and the 20th-century Apartment inside the palace. It’s open daily from 9 am to 7 pm, with last entry at 6 pm. If you’re after a break from the usual tourist circuit, this is one of the best things to do in Verona, Italy.

4. Visit Casa di Giulietta

Casa di Giulietta is easily Verona’s most iconic—and most visited—sight. The courtyard, the statue, and of course, that balcony draw crowds at every hour of the day, so don’t expect a quiet, romantic moment here.

I arrived right at 9 am when it opened, and still ended up queuing for over an hour just to get inside. Booking tickets to the house museum in advance does help speed things up, but it’s still a popular bottleneck.

The balcony itself is small, and the bronze statue of Juliet gets more attention than the exhibits inside. It’s one of those places you visit because you kind of have to—an obligatory stop for first-timers in Verona. Not the most moving experience for me personally, but undeniably a bucket-list spot.

5. Visit the Palazzo Maffei House Museum

Palazzo Maffei is a standout among Verona’s cultural offerings—an elegant 17th-century Baroque palace on Piazza delle Erbe that now houses a surprisingly bold and eclectic art collection. Inside, you’ll find over 650 works spanning 2,000 years, from Roman antiquities to modern icons like Picasso, Magritte, Fontana, and Warhol – for me, easily one of the best things to do in Verona.

The layout feels more like a private collector’s home than a traditional museum, with rooms that blend Renaissance frescoes, avant-garde installations, and even a few surreal surprises. The spiral staircase alone is worth the visit, and your ticket includes access to the rooftop, which grants superior views over Piazza delle Erbe.

It’s open from Wednesday to Monday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:10 PM), and closed on Tuesdays. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door, and while it’s not included in the Verona Card, it’s well worth the separate ticket.

If you’re into art—or just curious about how ancient and contemporary can coexist under one roof—this is a must.

6. Stroll the Streets

Verona is a city best experienced on foot, with its labyrinth of cobblestone lanes, sun-drenched piazzas, and centuries-old facades offering a living museum at every turn.

Start your exploration on Via Mazzini, the city’s main shopping artery, where high-end boutiques and bustling crowds are framed by polished stone underfoot and pastel-hued buildings overhead. From there, wander into Piazza delle Erbe, the city’s oldest square, surrounded by frescoed buildings and the towering Lamberti Tower.

For a quieter experience, meander through the narrow alleys of the Veronetta district, where local life unfolds away from the tourist trail. Each street in Verona is picturesque, and with every step, you’re walking through layers of history, culture, and everyday Italian life.

7. Take in the Views from Piazzale Castel S. Pietro

One of the best things to do in Verona for panoramic views of the city, head to Piazzale Castel San Pietro. Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, this spot offers sweeping vistas of the Adige River, historic rooftops, and iconic landmarks like the Lamberti Tower and San Giorgio in Braida.

Reaching the piazzale is part of the experience. You can ascend via the historic funicular railway, located near the Roman Theatre on Via Fontanelle di Santo Stefano. The funicular takes just over a minute to reach the top and operates year-round, with extended hours in the summer months.

Alternatively, for those seeking a bit of exercise, a staircase beginning near Ponte Pietra offers a scenic climb through the hillside.

While the castle itself is not open to the public, the terrace provides ample space to relax and take in the scenery. A visit to Piazzale Castel San Pietro is really a must for capturing the essence of Verona from above and the obligatory photo op.

8. Walk Across Ponte Pietra

Ponte Pietra is Verona’s oldest bridge, a Roman marvel dating back to 100 BC. It has weathered floods, wars, and centuries of change, yet still stands proudly over the Adige River.

Walking across it is like flipping through the city’s architectural history book: Roman stone arches, medieval brickwork, and Renaissance restorations all stitched together in one elegant span.

The bridge is pedestrian-only, making it a peaceful spot to pause and take in the views—especially at sunset, when the light hits the terracotta rooftops and the river glows gold. It also connects the historic center to the Roman Theatre and the funicular up to Castel San Pietro, so it’s both scenic and strategic.

9. Take in Piazza delle Erbe

Piazza delle Erbe is the beating heart of Verona—a vibrant square layered with history, commerce, and a touch of theatrical flair. Once the Roman forum, it has evolved into a lively marketplace surrounded by a tapestry of architectural styles.

The square is flanked by notable buildings such as the medieval Domus Mercatorum, the Baroque Palazzo Maffei adorned with statues of Greek gods, and the frescoed Mazzanti Houses, which harken back to Verona’s nickname “urbs picta” or “painted city”.

At its center stands the Madonna Verona fountain, featuring a Roman statue dating back to 380 AD, symbolizing the city’s enduring legacy. It’s a place where Verona’s past and present converge, offering a snapshot of daily life amidst centuries-old surroundings.

10. Climb up Torre dei Lamberti

Climbing the Torre dei Lamberti is a must-do in Verona—both for the views and the bragging rights. Standing at 84 meters, it’s the city’s tallest tower, originally built in 1172 by the Lamberti family and later expanded with a marble belfry after a lightning strike in the 15th century.

You can take the elevator most of the way up (for an extra €1), but there are still 46 steps to the top, so be ready for a bit of a climb. The reward that awaits is a 360-degree panorama over Verona’s rooftops, piazzas, and the Adige River—especially magical at sunset.

Visit Verona’s Four Main Churches

The churches in Verona, Italy aren’t just places of worship—they’re timeless places filled with frescoes, architecture, and history, each one offering a different glimpse into the city’s past.

If you plan to visit more than one (and you should), skip paying €4 at each and grab the combined ticket for all four main churches—it’s just €8 and available at the ticket desk of whichever church you visit first.

If you already have the Verona Card, entry is included, but for everyone else, the combo ticket is by far the smartest move.

11. Cattedrale di Santa Maria Matricolare (Duomo)

Part of the Verona Cathedral Complex, Cattedrale di Santa Maria Matricolare—better known as the Duomo—is an elegant mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles that somehow works. The exterior is relatively understated, but step inside and you’ll find soaring arches, 12th-century frescoes, and a stunning altarpiece by Titian.

It’s quieter than many of Verona’s other landmarks, which makes it ideal for slowing down and really taking in the detail. Admission is included in the combined churches ticket, and it’s worth it just for the chance to explore both the cathedral itself and the attached cloisters and archaeological site.

12. Santa Anastasia Basilica

Santa Anastasia Basilica is the largest church in Verona and a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture.

Construction began in 1290 under the guidance of Dominican friars Fra Benvenuto da Bologna and Fra Nicolò da Imola, with significant support from the ruling Della Scala family. The basilica’s interior features three expansive aisles supported by twelve impressive pillars made of red Veronese marble.

Noteworthy artworks include Pisanello’s fresco Saint George and the Princess in the Pellegrini Chapel, and terracotta sculptures by Michele da Firenze depicting scenes from the life of Jesus. Make sure to also admire the unique holy water stoups held by carved hunchbacks at the entrance, a distinctive feature of the church.

13. San Fermo Maggiore Church

San Fermo Maggiore is one of Verona’s most fascinating churches—actually two churches stacked atop one another, each with its own distinct character. The lower church, built by the Benedictines in the 11th century, is a Romanesque space with four naves and centuries-old frescoes still clinging to its stone pillars.

Above it, the Gothic upper church—completed in the 14th century by the Franciscans—features a dramatic wooden ceiling shaped like an upside-down ship’s hull and a series of chapels adorned with frescoes by artists like Pisanello and Turone. The bronze doors at the entrance, added in 1997, depict scenes from the martyrdom of Saints Fermo and Rustico, to whom the church is dedicated.

14. San Zeno Maggiore Basilica

Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore, just outside the historic center, is one of Verona’s finest Romanesque churches. Its warm, tuff-stone façade, 12th-century bell tower, and intricate bronze doors set the tone, but inside it’s the peaceful atmosphere and Mantegna’s altarpiece that really make it worth the detour.

It’s quieter than the other major churches, which adds to the appeal if you’re looking for a slower, more reflective stop.

15. Walk over Ponte di Castelvecchio

This striking red-brick bridge, built in the 14th century by the Scaligeri family, connects the impressive Castelvecchio fortress to the opposite bank of the Adige. With its crenellated walls and dramatic arches, it’s as photogenic as they come—and blissfully car-free.

It’s a great place for a stroll, especially at golden hour when the light hits the river just right.

16. Visit Castelvecchio Museum

Castelvecchio Museum is a must-see in Verona, offering medieval architecture and modern design. Housed in a 14th-century fortress built by the Scaligeri family, the museum showcases an impressive collection of medieval and Renaissance art, including works by Bellini, Mantegna, and Veronese.

Highlights include Pisanello’s Madonna of the Quail, the equestrian statue of Cangrande I della Scala, and the Madonna of the Rose Garden by Stefano da Verona or Michelino da Besozzo.

The museum’s renovation by architect Carlo Scarpa between 1959 and 1973 is noteworthy, as it thoughtfully integrates modern elements with the historic structure, enhancing the visitor experience. Castelvecchio Museum provides a compelling glimpse into Verona’s rich cultural heritage, art, and Medieval history.

17. Take in Porta Borsari

Difficult to miss when exploring the city center, Porta Borsari is a striking Roman gate that once marked the main entrance to Verona. Dating back to the 1st century AD, it still stands impressively intact, with its white limestone façade and double-arched passageway facing Corso Porta Borsari.

You’ll likely pass it en route to somewhere else, but it’s worth a moment’s pause—especially when you consider that ancient travelers entered Verona through this very gate nearly 2,000 years ago. It’s a reminder of just how deeply layered the city’s history really is.

18. Enjoy the Views from Santuario della Madonna di Lourdes

One of the best things to do in Verona as the sun begins to make its way into the horizon is head up to the Santuario della Madonna di Lourdes. Perched on a hill across the Adige, this peaceful sanctuary offers one of the most expansive—and least crowded—views over the city.

Unlike Castel San Pietro, which tends to draw the sunset crowds, this spot remains mostly quiet, even in peak season. It’s a bit of a hike or a quick drive, but the golden light hitting Verona’s rooftops and church spires makes it more than worth the effort.

Unfortunately, the spot does have quite limited evening hours, and since the site closes at 7 pm in summer (at 6 pm in winter), it’s not ideal for summer sunsets. In the shorter winter months, you have better chances of catching the sunset here.

19. Visit the Chapter Library of Verona ( La Capitolare)

Tucked behind Verona’s Duomo, the Chapter Library (Biblioteca Capitolare) is a hidden gem for history buffs and bibliophiles.

Established in the 5th century, it’s considered the oldest library in continuous operation, housing over 1,200 manuscripts, including the 517 AD Ursicinus Codex and the Veronese Riddle—the earliest known example of written Italian.

Recent renovations have opened new exhibition spaces, blending ancient texts with modern multimedia displays. The spot is small, but it is a chance to dive further into Verona’s literary history.

20. Go Shopping

Verona’s shopping scene is a delightful blend of the classic and the cutting-edge, offering treasures for every kind of shopper. For fragrance aficionados, Carlotta’s Beauty Shop is a must-visit. This refined boutique boasts a curated selection of niche perfumes and clean beauty products, featuring brands like Diptyque, Byredo, and Frederic Malle.

Fashion enthusiasts should explore Eterna Vintage, a haven for vintage lovers offering a sharply edited collection of second-hand pieces that feel more Paris flea market than thrift store.

For those seeking avant-garde fashion, Onxy S.R.L. Macondo is a standout. Located on a bustling shopping street, this boutique offers original and alternative styles from various global brands, catering to diverse fashion tastes with unique pieces that are akin to works of art rather than just garments.

If you’re after something truly bespoke, ARTEP is the place to go. This family-run atelier creates custom handwoven carpets and rugs that blend Italian design with Persian craftsmanship. For a mix of fashion and functional design, Tonolo Selezioni offers a curated selection of clothing and accessories, emphasizing quality and timeless style.

21. See an Opera at Teatro Filarmonico

If your visit to Verona doesn’t align with the summer opera season at the Arena, don’t worry—the Teatro Filarmonico offers an exceptional alternative. As the city’s principal opera house, it boasts a rich history dating back to its inauguration in 1732 with Antonio Vivaldi’s La fida ninfa.

Though the original building was destroyed by fire in 1749 and later by bombing in 1945, it has been meticulously rebuilt, preserving its architectural splendor.

The Teatro Filarmonico hosts a diverse program throughout the year, including operas, concerts, and ballets. Performances here provide an intimate setting to experience world-class productions, often featuring renowned artists and conductors. See what’s on here.

22. Visit the Scaliger Family Tombs

Just off Piazza dei Signori, the Scaliger Tombs are some of Verona’s most dramatic Gothic landmarks. These ornate 14th-century monuments honor the powerful Della Scala family, who ruled the city in the Middle Ages.

Enclosed by a wrought iron fence, each tomb is richly detailed and topped with an equestrian statue of the deceased—Cangrande I’s even sits above the church door. You can view them for free from the street, and it’s well worth a quick stop while exploring the historic center.

Take a Day Trip

23. Lake Garda

A day trip to Lake Garda from Verona is an easy and worthwhile escape—just under an hour by car or train, depending on where you go. The closest town, Peschiera del Garda, is a 15-minute train ride from Verona Porta Nuova and makes a great base for lakeside strolls, boat rides, and a relaxed lunch with a view.

If you have more time, head a bit further north to Sirmione, famous for its thermal waters, castle, and Roman ruins. Buses and ferries connect the lake towns if you’re keen to explore.

It’s a totally different vibe from Verona—slower, breezier, and ideal for a reset between sightseeing days.

24. Venice

Taking a day trip to Venice from Verona is a no-brainer if you’ve got the time—trains between the two cities run frequently and take just over an hour, dropping you off right at Santa Lucia station, steps from the Grand Canal.

While Venice deserves far more than a day, it’s absolutely doable: you can wander the canals, grab cicchetti in a tucked-away bàcaro, and still make it back to Verona in time for dinner.

If you go, make the most of it—I’ve put together a detailed One Day in Venice guide to help you hit the highlights without the stress.

25. Bologna

If you’re looking to add another city to your itinerary, Bologna is an excellent day trip from Verona. High-speed trains connect the two cities in about 52 minutes, with tickets starting around €9.

Once in Bologna, you can explore the historic Quadrilatero market district, admire the architecture of Piazza Maggiore, and visit the Basilica di San Petronio. For panoramic views, consider climbing the Asinelli Tower.

Bologna is also renowned for its cuisine—don’t miss trying traditional dishes like tagliatelle al ragù or tortellini in brodo.

For a detailed itinerary to make the most of your day, refer to my Two Days in Bologna guide, which can easily be condensed.

Where to Stay in Verona

The best place to stay in Verona is the historic center (Città Antica). This area puts you within walking distance of major sights like the Arena, Piazza delle Erbe, Juliet’s House, and the Adige River. It’s also packed with charming cafés, restaurants, and boutiques, making it ideal for both first-timers and returning visitors.

Here are four standout hotels in the heart of the city, I recommend:

Each of these hotels offers a unique experience, ensuring a memorable stay in Verona’s historic center.

Where to Eat & Drink

It’s safe to say that digging into Verona’s cuisine is a must when in the city. This is a place where hearty northern Italian flavors meet refined Venetian influence—think rich risottos, slow-cooked meats, and a serious love for Amarone wine.

Below, you’ll find some of the best spots to eat and drink across the city—from classic Veronese fare to aperitivo with a view.

Cafes & Bars

Caffè Borsari – A tiny, atmospheric café near Porta Borsari known for its vintage decor, strong espresso, and walls lined with retro coffee tins—perfect for a morning caffeine hit with character.

Romeo Ristorante, Bistrot & Cocktail Bar – A sleek spot that balances modern Italian cuisine with creative cocktails, making it ideal for aperitif that turns into dinner.

Archivio – Widely considered one of Verona’s best cocktail bars, Archivio serves up expertly crafted drinks in a moody, minimalist space just off Piazza delle Erbe.

Bar Caffetteria al Duomo – A quiet, unfussy café perfect for a pre-sightseeing espresso or afternoon spritz, right next to the Verona Cathedral.

Café Carducci – A classy neighborhood café with an old-school charm and great pastries; come here for a relaxed breakfast or laid-back aperitivo away from the crowds.

Vino – Liquori – A small, wine bar with a hyper-curated list (mainly natural wine) and knowledgeable staff who are happy to talk you through their ever-rotating selection—ideal for wine nerds and curious sippers alike.

Terrazza Arena Sky Lounge Bar & Restaurant – A rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the Arena and a refined menu of cocktails and modern bites—come for sunset and stay for the elegance.

Restaurants

I’ll name a couple of my favorite spots to eat in Verona, but I do have a dedicated guide just for this. For the full list, check out The Best Restaurants in Verona. That said, don’t miss the following two:

Trattoria al Pompiere, a beloved institution just off Piazza delle Erbe, is known for its killer selection of cured meats and hearty Veronese dishes. You can’t go wrong with anything here – the white ragu I had was mindblowing.

Osteria al Duca is another favorite—simple, rustic, no-frills, and packed with locals digging into classic pastas and stews. It’s exactly the kind of place you hope to stumble into in northern Italy.

How Long Should you Spend in Verona?

You can see the highlights in a day in Verona, Italy, but to really enjoy the city, without rushing from Juliet’s Balcony to the Arena with a sandwich in hand—plan for at least two days in Verona. This is what I did, and it was the perfect amount of time for the city itself.

That gives you time to explore the major sights, enjoy long meals, and soak up the atmosphere that makes Verona more than just a romantic backdrop. Three days is ideal if you want to add a day trip and really linger.

The Verona Card

You may have noticed me mention the Verona Card a few times in this article. The Verona Card is the city’s official sightseeing pass, designed to save you both time and money while exploring Verona’s top attractions.

Available in two versions—€27 for 24 hours or €32 for 48 hours—the card grants free or discounted access to over 20 major sites, including the Arena di Verona (with fast-track entry), Juliet’s House (advance booking required), Torre dei Lamberti, Castelvecchio Museum, and all four of the historic churches.

It also includes unlimited travel on Verona’s city buses during the card’s validity period, however, this isn’t really needed as the city center is completely walkable.

If you plan to visit multiple attractions in a short time, the Verona Card offers excellent value. For instance, visiting the Arena (€12), Juliet’s House (€6), and Castelvecchio Museum (€9) separately would already exceed the cost of the 24-hour card. Add in the convenience of free public transport and potential discounts at other sites, and the savings become even more substantial.

However, the card may not be necessary if you prefer a more leisurely pace, focusing on free attractions like piazzas, or if you qualify for age-related discounts. Also, note that many museums are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly to maximize the card’s benefits.

You can purchase the Verona Card online or at various locations throughout the city, including the Tourist Information Office in Piazza Brà.

Top Tours in Verona

Booking a tour in Verona is a great way to go beyond the usual sights, especially if you’re short on time. From food-focused walks and guided Arena visits to vineyard trips in the surrounding hills, these top-rated tours offer insider access and local knowledge that you’d probably miss on your own.

Ready for the best things to do in Verona Italy? Have any questions or comments about your trip? Let me know in the box below.

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