After our visit to Bergamo, we headed to nearby Verona. In this post I’ll provide you with useful tips & ideas for the most romantic city in Northern Italy.
Before reading on:
This blog post is written with the help of my daughter Lisa, who shared her own experiences with me visiting Verona.
IMPORTANT MESSAGE: Throughout this post you’ll find affiliated links & ads provided by the travel platforms like TravelPayOuts & GetYourGuide. Links & ads that may help you plan & fill in your next trip to Italy.
If you click on them & buy a ticket for a museum or a tour a small commission of your purchase will go to me. (Paid by the provider, without any extra cost to you!).
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Main reasons to visit Verona
Besides being a beautiful historic destination, Verona offers every visitor something extra. A romantic feel, which is hidden in, between & behind the monumental walls of its inner city.
No surprise here, as Verona was the stage for William Shakespeare’s world famous, tragic love story of Romeo & Juliet.
- The original title of Shakespeare’s play was “The Most Excellent and Lamentable Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet”.
Every day hundreds of people still gather underneath Juliet’s Balcony in Verona’s old city center.
Another big attraction is the Verona Arena. Originally a Roman amphitheater, but one which still hosts spectacular opera performances during the summer months.
That said, the Arena is just one of the many interesting monuments Verona is blessed with. Besides several historical, lively squares, like the Piazza dei Signori.
- Also known as Piazza Dante, because of the presence of the beautiful statue of the writer/poet.
In a few words, a visit to Verona is something special & in this post I’ll tell you why. Introducing you to all its highlights.
Short history of Verona
To appreciate the beautiful city of Verano even more, it’s necessary to know a little bit about its history. A history which spans millennia.
Early History
The oldest traces of the city so far have been found on the Colle di San Pietro/ Hill of San Pietro – located northwest of the city center.
- Traces which bring us back to the Neolithic or New Stone Age. A period which roughly covers the years between 10,000 BC and 2,000 BC.
Roman Era
After local & Celtic tribes alternately dominated the region, the Romans conquered Verona in 89 BC. Primarily a strategic conquest, as the city was located along the major trade routes to the north & the orient.
- While ruling the city, the Romans built the iconic Arena di Verona, which still stands today.
Middle Ages
After the fall of the Roman Empire in the 5th century, Verona was ruled by various groups – including the Goths & the Lombards.
Until the 13th century, when the powerful Della Scala or Scaligeri family emerged as rulers of Verona. Transforming the city & its surroundings into a prosperous region – politically, economically & culturally – for over a century.
- One of the greatest members of this family was Cangrande the first (1291–1329). He was not only a great prince & warrior, but also a patron of the arts. In that capacity, protecting Italian artists like Dante, Petrarch & Giotto.
- Cangrande & other members of this distinguished family even provided shelter to Dante, who regularly had to flee his political enemies in his birthplace Florence.
Venetian Period
From 1405, Verona fell under the control of the Republic of Venice. Another period marked by continued growth & artistic development.
- Verona is still part of the Italian state of Veneto, with Venice as its capital.
Although there are no real tangible remains that remind us of the Venetian presence, they expanded & fortified Verano’s existing defenses. The best example being the Castelvecchio – the castle & adjoining bridge.
Modern Era
In the 18th century, Verona became part of the Austrian Empire. Another “foreign” domination which was only shortly interrupted by the French invasions under Napoleon Bonaparte. And ended after the Italian War of Independence.
- Verona, along with the rest of Veneto, became part of a unified Italy in 1866.
Like the rest of Europe, Verona suffered considerably during the Second World War. Partially as an area belonging to the wrong side, the Axis.
After the war though, Verona recovered little by little. Restoring itself to its former glory. In the end, becoming the popular tourist destination it is today.
Things to do in Verona
Verona has a lot to offer its visitors. Besides a visit to its monumental buildings & interesting museums, it’s a lovely place to just stroll around. Or else, to have a bite & a drink on one of its many squares & terraces.
The Verona Arena
Let’s start with the most visible monument when you visit the inner city of Verona. The Arena di Verona, the former Roman amphitheater located in the heart of the city.
- The Arena was built in 30 AD. Originally mainly used for gladiatorial fights and other public spectacles.
Nowadays, the Verona Arena is well worth your visit. First of all, to learn about its long & fascinating history.
Secondly, you can enjoy an unforgettable opera performance or concert in the Verona Arena. Cultural events which are mainly organized during the Summer (June-September), but sometimes also outside the tourist season.
- Among the performances you can enjoy are world famous operas, like Aida, Carmen, and La Traviata.
TravelTip: To learn more about the Arena’s history I’d recommend you to take a guided tour. A visit is generally included in every Walking Tour of the City. However, there’s also a tour exclusively focused on the Arena.
To learn more about this special Tour, go to: Priority Access Arena Tour
TravelTip: If you’d like to experience a live performance, I’d recommend you to book tickets well in advance.
To learn more about the Opera performances, go to: Arena Opera Ticket
Ponte Pietra
Another famous Roman landmark in Verona is the Ponte Pietra. A beautiful ancient bridge, which spans the Adige River for almost 2000 years now.
Teatro Romano
Finally, at the foot of the San Pietro Hill you can visit the Teatro Romano. That is to say, its remains.
- Although not as well kept as the Arena, the theater’s grandstand & stage are well preserved. Enough to still use it during the Summer months for all kinds of cultural events.
Next to this historic site, you’ll find the interesting Archaeological Museum. It has a nice selection of Roman artifacts found in & around Verona.
Juliet’s House & Balcony
Another highly popular thing to do in Verona is a visit to Juliet’s House. Every day hundreds of people gather on the little square in front of the most famous house in Verona.
- In Italian Juliet translates to Giulietta.
The story goes…
Although nowadays the story of Romeo & Juliet is generally attributed to William Shakespeare, it was actually written much earlier. Told & committed to paper by several Italian colleagues.
- Soon enough the dramatic tale from Italy would roam Medieval Europe & reach Shakespeare’s eyes & ears. After which he decided to retell the story in his own famous words & without the need to visit Verona.
The story itself is based on a 13th century rivalry between two noble families in Verano. The Montecchi and Capuleti families.
- In English translated to the Montagues & the Capulets.
And then of course the unfortunate fact that Romeo Montague fell in love with Juliet Capulet,… ending in their deaths.
- As it’s always hard to distinguish fact from fiction – certainly after so many years – there’s evidence that “Juliet” really existed (as well as “Romeo”, see below). Living in this particular house in Verona.
Nowadays her house & the square in front is a favorite spot for people to declare their love for… eachother, life, the world, the story…
Every day people gather on the square to admire Juliet’s house, the balcony & her beautiful bronze statue.
No surprise then, you can also actually Visit Juliet’s House. On your own, or through a Audio-guided tour in which the love story – obviously – takes center stage.
To learn more, go to: Visit to Juliet’s House, Verona
TravelTip: If you plan to visit Juliet’s House/La Casa di Giulietta try to go as early as possible. Mainly to avoid the crowds. The house opens every day – except Mondays – at 9 AM.
Romeo’s House
But what about Romeo then?
In Verona’s city center there’s also an historic house/palace which is known as the Casa di Romeo. In other words, the house where “Romeo” lived
- Or – as some experts will tell you – someone, who listened to another name. Who – however – was the inspiration for the world famous literary figure.
Although people tried to convert Romeo’s house into a tourist attraction as well, the owners never gave permission to do so. As a consequence, you can only have a look at its exterior & a commemorative plaque beside the entrance door.
Top #3 churches to visit in Verona
The inner city of Verona is blessed with many beautiful churches, worth your visit. However, here I’ll only mention three special ones:
Probably the most visited one is the Romanesque Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore. A beautiful church – the oldest one in Verona (10th century) – with a neighboring Abbey & Cloister.
TravelTip: Although the Abbey was partially destroyed during the French rule under Napoleon, it’s also open to the public nowadays.
- One of the reasons this basilica is the most popular in Verona is the fact that here the story continues… this being the church where Romeo & Juliet got married.
Another fascinating church to visit is the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Matricolare or Duomo di Verona. A 12th century church built in Gothic style, full of special works of art in its interior.
Finally, there’s the Chiesa di Sant’Anastasia. This is the largest church in Verona, and houses many tombs of noble families. Building began at the end of the 13th century & took a while to finish.
Castelvecchio, Castle & Bridge
This impressive Medieval castle was built in the 14th century. Its construction was commissioned by the famous Scaligeri family (mentioned in the Short History of Verona above). Mainly to protect the city against its powerful neighbors, like Venice.
Nowadays the Castelvecchio houses a worthwhile art & artifacts museum, but its walls also offer stunning views of the city.
Piazza delle Erbe
Earlier on I introduced to you the lively Piazza dei Signore. Another square you can’t miss is Piazza delle Erbe – the Square of the Herbs – formerly the Roman Forum.
Another perfect spot to stroll around & sit down on one of the many terraces for a bite & drink.
Castel San Pietro
On the top of the San Pietro Hill you can visit its Castle, which goes by the same name.
- The Castel San Pietro is a 19th century fortress, built in Austrian style.
The castel is a popular spot for tourists, as well as locals. Mainly because the outer walls provide magnificent views of the city & surrounding area.
We went there twice. The first time with the Guided Walking Tour & later on near sundown.
TravelTip: You can either walk up the hill. Or else, take the funicular (which leaves at the foot of the hill). During sunny days go early, as hundreds gather daily to say goodbye to the sun.
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes
Alternatively, you can visit the San Leonardo Hill, blessed with the beautiful Santuario Nostra Signora di Lourdes. Also guaranteeing you with spectacular views of the city & its surroundings.
The Sanctuary is actually a church, monastery & fortress with a long history. A fascinating past, but – be aware – not always as beautiful as the monumental buildings & artworks inside.
- During the Second World War the Nazis used the Sanctuary as a prison. Many political opponents, Jews & Allied troops were incarcerated & tortured there. Something you have to know before you decide to visit the attraction.
Getting around & Verona City Pass
After introducing you to the Top attractions in beautiful Verona, I’d like to introduce you to:
The best ways to Get Around in the city & Verona’s own City Pass.
Getting Around in Verona
The best way to get to know the inner city of Verona is on foot. Just strolling around, you’ll find everything you’re looking for. Simple as that.
That said, there are several beautiful & interesting monuments located on the hills around the inner city. Like the Castel San Pietro or the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes (see above).
To reach them you have to walk/hike up or take a taxi. However, regarding San Pietro there’s also the option to take the funicular. In other words, the cable car, which has its starting point at the foot of the San Pietro Hill.
Walking tour
If you want to know all the ins & outs of the city’s fascinating past, I’d highly recommend you to take a Guided Tour of the Inner City of Verona.
To learn more, go to: History & Hidden Gem Guided Tour of Verona
Alternatively, there’s also the option to buy yourself a Audio Guided Tour.
To learn more, click on: Audio-Guided Tour of Verona
Hop-on/Hop-off Verona Bus Tour
Another way to get around is to purchase a 24/48 Hop-on/Hop-off Bus Pass. A special bus which covers two routes through the city.
- One route – the blue one – includes a stop on the Hill of San Pietro.
To learn more, click on: Verona’s Hop-on/Hop-off Bus Tour
Bike Tour of Verona
Last but not least, you can choose to explore Verona on a Guided Bike Tour (3 hours).
To learn more, go to: Verona Hidden Gem Bike Tour
Verona’s City Pass
A highly popular option in Verona is to purchase The 24 or 48 Hour City Card.
A card which gives you priority entrance to the Arena and dozens other attractions in & around the city. Plus free rides on the public bus network, which covers the whole city center.
To get more details, go to: The Verona City Card
Visit Verona: Where to Stay
As in Bergamo there are hundreds of hotels in Verona to choose from. Your choice logically depending on your personal wishes & your budget.
However, I’d highly recommend you to find a hotel in the inner city. As this gives you the chance to get to know the city the best. Strolling around at an early hour, if you like. Or late at night – always a special moment.
That said, I personally can recommend you the Hotel Truly Verona. A modern mid-range hotel with a friendly staff & clean, spacious rooms & apartments. Ideally located just a stone’s throw away from the Verona Arena.
To learn more about this hotel, go to: Truly Verona, Verona
Visit Verona: What & Where to Eat
Verona offers several typical local dishes. To name a few hearty treats:
- Risotto all’Amarone: A creamy risotto made with Amarone… A rich red wine from the nearby Valpolicella region, giving the Risotto a unique color & flavor.
Gnocchi alla Veronese: Potato gnocchi. A traditional dish of Verona, which can be served with various sauces, like tomato, butter & sage. Or, if you like a rich meat ragout.
Pastissada de Caval: A hearty stew made with horse meat(!), local red wine & onions. Often served with polenta.
Lesso e Pearà: Boiled beef served with “Pearà,… A tasty Veronese sauce made with breadcrumbs, beef marrow, pepper & broth.
Favorite restaurants in Verona
There are many restaurants to choose from in Verona. In accordance with the local Italian dishes presented, I’ve selected three options you may consider visiting:
Click on their names, if you like to learn more:
- Trattoria Fluviale Vecio Mulin (see photo above, Risotto all’Amarone)
- La Bottega della Gina XXL (fresh pastas & raviolis, also to Take Away)
Visit Verona: Food Tour
Alternatively, you can explore the city in a culinary way through a Food Tour of Verona (3.5 hours). Guided by an expert who will lead you to many local delicacies in the city center. Including several wines from the famous nearby Valpolicella area.
TravelTip: If interested, I’d recommend you to take this tour as soon as possible. As this gives you the opportunity to return to some favorite spots the guide presented to you.
To get more details of this tour, click on: Verona Food Tour
Another way to culinary experience the local cuisine is at the home of a local family.
To learn more, go to: Local Dining Experience in Verano
And finally, there’s also the option to learn how to make some Italian dishes, like pasta & tiramisù.
For more details, click on: Verona Cooking Class (3.5 hours)
Or else, how to learn to make the world famous Italian Gelato/ Ice Cream.
To learn more, go to: Gelato Making Cooking Class (2 hours)
Things to Do around Verona
Besides being a beautiful destination in itself, Verona provides a perfect base to explore the area. Like day trips to nearby wineries, Venice, the Garda Lake & the unique Dolomites.
Things you can do on your own. Or else, as part of an organized tour from Verona.
Vapolicella & Amarone Wine Tour
Italy is known for its many culinary highlights and the locally produced wine is one of them.
In the hills around Verona you can visit the historical Valpolicella wine region. Home to many types of wine. Among them, the world famous Amorone wine. A powerful red wine, unique for this region of Italy.
You can visit this area on your own. Or else, with A Guided Valpolicella Tour. A half-a-day trip (4 hours) which will lead you to two wineries. In both you will learn about their process of making wine & of course taste several of them.
For more details, click on: Valpolicella Wine Tasting Tour near Verona
Alternatively, there’s also an e-Bike Tour to the wineries. Which will lead you through the rolling hills around Verona.
To learn more, go to: e-Bike Tour to the Valpolicella Wineries
Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona Tour
The Basilica Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona is a 16th century church located in the hills of Spiazzi, near Verona.
- The church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary & is a popular pilgrimage site.
Besides being a beautiful architectural monument in itself, its location is another reason to go there. As the church is built into & onto a high rock face it offers unforgettable views of the surrounding area.
On this Unique Day trip to Madonna della Corona(6 hours) you’ll start with a visit to the Basilica. A 45 minute drive from Verona.
After visiting the church you’ll make a stop at a mountain osteria/tavern for a traditional lunch. Before heading back to Verona.
To learn more, go to: Day trip to Madonna della Corona + lunch
Day trip to the Garda Lake
The Garda Lake is the most famous & the biggest lake of Italy. Only an hour drive from Verona.
On the recommended Day Trip to the Garda Lake (7.5 hours) you’ll start with a boat tour of the lake (45 minutes). Followed by a visit to Sirmione. A unique city located on its shore with a long history & Roman past.
After a short visit to Sirmione’s medieval castle – which belonged to the Scaligero family from Verona – you’re invited to an interesting walking tour of the city. Ending in some free time to explore the city on your own.
To get more details, click on: Day trip to the Garda Lake from Verona
Full-day tour of the Dolomites
The Dolomites are a mountain range in northeastern Italy, officially belonging to the Southern Alps. It’s mainly known for their dramatic peaks, jagged ridges & stunning scenery.
An area ideal for hiking, skiing & other outdoor activities. Or to just sit down & become flabbergasted by the unforgettable views up the peaks & down the valleys.
So, for those of you who like to get to know a unique natural area near Verona, I highly recommend this Dolomite Day-Tour (11 hours).
To learn more, go to: Day trip to the Dolomite Mountains, from Verona.
Guided trip to Venice
Did you know Venice is only an hour drive from Verona? Well, actually a little over an hour.
Giving you the chance to visit “La Serenissima” on a Day trip to Venice. A 10 hour tour, including a boat ride on the canals & a guided walking tour through Venice’s city center.
For more details, click on: Day trip to Venice, from Verona
Visit Verona: In conclusion
Verona is a beautiful, friendly place to visit. A city to lose yourself in its long past & the Shakespearean legend of Romeo & Juliet.
Besides that, it’s an ideal spot to taste typical culinary delicacies.
As well as a perfect base to explore the surrounding area. Other romantic cities nearby or natural wonders like the Dolomites & the Garda Lake.
For more info on our visit to nearby Bergamo, go to: Things to do in Bergamo
For an overview of all my travel posts of my blog, go to: My Home Page
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