The Ultimate Verona travel guide
In northern Italy's Veneto region, Verona stands as a masterpiece of romance, history, and architectural beauty. While many travelers know it as the setting of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, this enchanting city offers so much more than star-crossed lovers' tales. This comprehensive Verona travel guide will walk you through everything you need to know about exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site.
From the magnificent Arena di Verona, where opera still soars through summer nights, to the hidden trattorias serving perfect plates of bigoli pasta, we'll help you discover both the iconic landmarks and local secrets that make Verona special.
About Verona
Verona with just over 250,000 residents, sits gracefully along the Adige River and serves as one of northern Italy's premier tourist destinations. The city reached its golden age under the della Scala family's rule in the 13th and 14th centuries, leaving behind magnificent monuments that still stand today.
While many know Verona as the setting for Shakespeare's famous works "Romeo and Juliet" and "The Two Gentlemen of Verona," it also holds significance as the birthplace of Renaissance humanist Isotta Nogarola, one of history's first prominent female scholars. UNESCO recognized Verona's remarkable urban design and architecture by declaring it a World Heritage Site in 2000, celebrating both its ancient Roman structures and its medieval treasures.
What is Verona known for?
Verona captivates visitors with its extraordinary blend of history, culture, and architectural wonders that span over two millennia. While many Verona travel guides focus only on the famous sites, this city reveals countless hidden treasures that tell stories through its perfectly preserved streets, each corner unveiling another layer of its rich heritage. At its heart, Verona is a city that rewards both the casual tourist and the dedicated explorer with an endless array of discoveries.
Ancient Roman Heritage and Architecture
Built in the 1st century AD, the Arena di Verona stands as Verona's crown jewel and one of the world's best-preserved ancient Roman amphitheaters. This magnificent structure continues to host spectacular opera performances and concerts, creating a living bridge between ancient and modern culture.
Medieval Glory Under the Della Scala Dynasty
During the medieval period, particularly under the della Scala family's rule (13th-14th centuries), Verona transformed into a powerful city-state. This golden age produced spectacular Gothic architecture and the elaborate Scaliger Tombs, exemplifying the pinnacle of medieval artistic achievement.
Shakespearean Legacy and Literary Fame
Shakespeare immortalized Verona through his works, especially "Romeo and Juliet." While the playwright likely never visited the city, his choice wasn't arbitrary. Verona had already established itself as a city of passion through real-life feuds between noble families like the Montecchi and Cappelletti, who inspired the famous Montagues and Capulets.
UNESCO World Heritage Architecture
Verona's city center showcases an exceptional blend of historical periods, earning UNESCO World Heritage status. From Roman ruins to Romanesque churches, Gothic palaces, and Renaissance gardens, the city preserves layers of history. The Piazza delle Erbe, originally a Roman forum, continues to serve as the city's vibrant heart, surrounded by frescoed buildings and medieval towers.
Cultural and Academic Significance
Verona holds profound cultural importance as a center of art and learning. The city gave birth to Isotta Nogarola, one of the Renaissance's most important female humanists, and maintains its position as a center for music, particularly opera. The annual summer opera festival in the Arena draws world-class performers and audiences globally.
Strategic Location and Regional Importance
Verona's position makes it a gateway to some of Italy's most beautiful regions. Located near Lake Garda and the Valpolicella wine region, famous for Amarone wines, the city's strategic location at the Alps' foothills historically facilitated trade between Italy and northern Europe. Today, it continues this legacy as a major economic center in northern Italy.
The best time to visit Verona
Spring (April-May)
- Temperatures: 12-22°C (mild and comfortable)
- Advantages:
- Fewer tourists
- Blooming gardens
- Lower accommodation prices
- Pleasant walking weather
- Events: Vinitaly wine festival in April, spring flower festivals
Summer (June-August)
- Temperatures: 22-32°C (hot and sunny)
- Advantages:
- Arena di Verona Opera Festival (world-renowned)
- Numerous outdoor concerts
- Long daylight hours
- Vibrant city atmosphere
- Challenges:
- Peak tourist season
- Higher prices
- Crowded attractions
Autumn (September-October)
- Temperatures: 15-25°C (mild and comfortable)
- Advantages:
- Harvest season
- Wine tours and grape festivals
- Beautiful fall colors
- Less crowded than summer
- Highlights:
- Valpolicella wine region at its peak
- Ideal photography conditions
Winter (November-March)
- Temperatures: 2-12°C (cold with occasional snow)
- Advantages:
- Christmas markets
- Low season pricing
- Authentic local experience
- Challenges:
- Many outdoor attractions less appealing
- Shorter tourist season
Recommendation: September-October is the best time to visit Verona as it offers the best balance of weather, events, and fewer crowds.
Getting to Verona
erona is centrally located for exploring Northern Italy, with several popular cities nearby. Venice, known for its canals and stunning architecture, is easily accessible. Milan, Italy's fashion capital with world-class shopping and the Duomo, is also within reach. For those consulting a Verona travel guide, it's clear the city is a fantastic base for exploring the region.
Bologna, famous for its history, cuisine, and arcaded streets, is another close option. Padua, home to a prestigious university and frescoes by Giotto, is a short trip away. Similarly, Vicenza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for Palladian villas, is also nearby. These cities are all easily accessible from Verona by train or car, making them suitable for day trips or longer stays.
Here are some popular routes to Verona:
Venice to Verona
The quickest way to get from Venice to Verona is by train. The train from Venice to Verona takes 1 hour on the fast train or between 1.5 hours to 2 hours on the slower train. The faster train is more expensive but worth it if in a rush.
If you took a car from Venice to Verona it will take around 1.5 hours.
Check the Venice to Verona train ticket prices
Milan to Verona
Getting to Verona from Milan takes around 1 hour 10 minutes on the fast train and up to 2 hours on the slower train. The price is about double for fast train. A quick tip is book your tickets early as sometimes they are lower in price.
Driving to and from Milan from Verona takes just over 2 hours.
Check the Milan to Verona train ticket prices
Vicenza to Verona
The quickest journey from Vicenza to Verona takes 26 minutes and is by the fast train. The slower trains take around 40 minutes to 1 hour.
When taking a car from Vicenza to Verona it takes 50 minutes.
View the Vicenza to Verona train prices
Bologna to Verona
Getting to Verona from Bologna is an amazing day trip and takes 52 minutes on the fast train or 1 hour and a half on the slow train. I took this recently and much preferred the fast train.
Taking a car from Bologna to Verona takes around 2 hours so definitely worth taking a train.
Check out the Bologna to Verona train ticket prices
Parking in Verona
Planning where to park in Verona requires a bit of strategy. A helpful Verona travel guide tip is to use one of the city's convenient parking structures located just outside the historic center. The Cittadella and Arena parking garages offer secure spots within walking distance of major attractions, though they can be pricey (around €2.30-€4 per hour). Most have a daily cap with the Cittadella and Arena being €21 euros last time I checked.
Sometimes private owners of garages may try and direct you to a parking. Make sure to check the price before you say yes as they may want to rip you off.
Free parking in Verona is available at the Stadio Bentegodi with a shuttle service to the city center. The Porta Vescovo and Stazione Porta Nuova railway stations also offer reasonably priced long-term parking options. If you're staying at a hotel in the center, check if they offer parking services, as many have arrangements with nearby garages at discounted rates.
Driving into Verona centre warning
Warning: Driving into Verona's historic center without proper authorization can result in hefty fines. The ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone) is strictly enforced by cameras that automatically photograph license plates of unauthorized vehicles. Many people mistakenly follow their GPS into the restricted zone or trail behind other cars through the entry points, only to receive a fine in the mail months later.
Verona ZTL times
Verona's historic center is a Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL), designed to preserve the city's ancient heart. Here's what you need to know about accessing this area:
Access Times
During weekdays (Monday-Friday), vehicles can enter during two windows:
- 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM
- 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
On weekends and holidays, access is limited to:
- 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM only
Evening Access
Evening entry (8:00 PM to 10:00 PM on weekdays) is possible through advance booking on Verona's mobility services portal. Each registered user can:
- Register up to two vehicles
- Enter the ZTL up to three times per month
- Make, view, and cancel bookings as needed
Important Exceptions
- Motorcycles and scooters can freely enter the ZTL without permits
- Vehicles over 3.5 tonnes are not permitted
- The zone includes major landmarks such as Ponte Scaligero, Castelvecchio, Piazza Brà, and surrounding streets
- Hotel guests can gain authorisation but make sure to contact the hotel so they can register you.
Verona ZTL map
Here is a link to the Verona ZTL map from the government website. The signs can be hard to see when your in the car so make sure to study this or even print it out.
The top 5 things to do in Verona
A visit to Verona reveals a city rich with historical and cultural experiences that shouldn't be missed. Any Verona travel guide will confirm these attractions as the city's crown jewels.
1. Visit the Arena di Verona
Step into one of the world's best-preserved Roman amphitheaters, dating back to the 1st century AD. While impressive during the day, the Arena truly comes alive during summer evenings when it hosts spectacular opera performances under the stars.
You can see who's on and purchase tickets on the official Arena di Verona website. This is not to be missed if you have a few days in Verona. The festival is open in the summer months whilst the teatro usually is on all year round.
If you don't have a few days you book a 30m - 1h Verona Arena tour here. Purchasing in advance means you don't have to wait in the line that sometimes has lines over 1 hour just to get in. Also you will be in a small tour group with a local guide.
2. Juliet's House (Casa di Giulietta)
Visit the 13th-century home with its famous balcony that inspired Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. While the connection to Shakespeare is largely symbolic, the medieval building and its romantic courtyard capture the imagination of visitors from around the world.
When I last went it was a pretty long line around midday so went there a bit later and the line eased off. Many people will be stopping to take pictures and taking pictures next to the statue so prepare for a slight wait.
Quick tip, it is believed if a man rubs Juliets right breast it will bring good luck in finding love. This is also why it take a bit longer to get through as many people are taking pictures.
3. Castel San Pietro
One of my favourite things to do in Verona was visit the Castel San Pietro. To get there you have to cross the Ponte Pietra and take a long walk up the stairs to this magnificent view point. The view itself of the whole city and surrounds is why it is on my Verona travel guide.
When we went there we decided to go up the Cable car which costs 2 euros one way or 3 euros there and back. I personally went up in the cable car and enjoyed the walk back down. A quick stop at their bar at the top was fantastic.
4. Castelvecchio
Explore this impressive medieval castle and its bridge (Ponte Scaligero), both masterpieces of Gothic architecture. The castle now houses an excellent museum of art, while the bridge offers some of the best views over the Adige River.
For an authentic tour in Verona that goes here, you should definitely jump on a walking tour with a local guide It costs under 10 euros and they take you around for 2-3 hours. You can enter the Castelvecchio courtyard and garden for free.
Walking tour tickets can be purchased here.
5. Torre dei Lamberti
Climb this 84-meter tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Verona. Dating from 1172, it's the tallest tower in Verona and offers unparalleled vistas of the city's red roofs, historic monuments, and the distant mountains.
The tickets are usually sold out so make sure to call them or email them a few days before. It cost 6 euros last time I checked. Here is a link too the Torre dei Lamberti ticket office.
My favourite hotels in Verona
When planning a trip to Italy, choosing the right accommodation is key to a truly memorable experience. Verona offers a range of fantastic hotels, from historic palazzi to modern boutique stays. These hotels, each with its own distinct charm, enhance any visit to Verona by providing not just a place to sleep, but an integral part of the city's rich cultural experience. Check out my favourite stays in my Verona travel guide.
NH Collection Palazzo Verona
The 5-star NH Collection Palazzo Verona provides a comfortable and convenient stay in Verona's heart. Housed in a 14th-century building near top attractions, it offers 70 stylish rooms with modern amenities and some suites with rooftop views. You can enjoy Italian dining and drinks in the restaurant/bar by a relaxing courtyard.
View the prices & availability for NH Collection Palazzo Verona
Hotel Gabbia d'Oro
Hotel Gabbia D'Oro offers elegant rooms with free Wi-Fi in an 18th-century building on Verona's Piazza delle Erbe. Featuring period furnishings, oriental carpets, and luxurious fabrics, each room includes a mini-bar, flat-screen TV, and private bathroom. Located in the historic center, it's 250m from Juliet's balcony and a 10-minute walk from the Arena, with Lake Garda a 30-minute drive away.
View the prices & availability for Hotel Gabbia D'Oro
Due Torri Hotel
The Due Torri Hotel, Verona's most renowned 5-star hotel, is located in the historic center near key attractions like the Church of Sant'Anastasia, Juliet's balcony, Piazza Bra, and the Arena. Its elegant period furnishings and "old-time" atmosphere are appreciated by a distinguished clientele. Each uniquely spacious and functional room features refined furnishings, linen sheets, hypoallergenic duvets, and either carpeted or hand-painted parquet floors.
View the prices & availability for Due Torri Hotel
Byblos Art Hotel Villa Amista
Byblos Art Hotel Style is a reinterpreted 16th-century Venetian villa transformed into a luxury hotel and contemporary art exhibition space. Guests can enjoy rare spirits and vintage Champagne at Peter's Bar, and from June to September, relax by the outdoor pool and pool bar, surrounded by lush greenery and fragrant flowers.
View the prices & availability for Byblos Art Hotel Style
Vista Verona
This luxury Verona hotel in the city center offers a full-service spa, included breakfast, a bar, pool, and gym. It's conveniently located a 3-minute walk from Juliet's House and a 5-minute walk from Piazza delle Erbe.
View the prices & availability for Vista Verona
For more hotels & details, check out my luxury hotels in Verona blog.
My top restaurants in Verona Italy
My Verona travel guide wouldn't be complete without restaurant recommendations. After spending a lot of time in Verona, I have dined at quite a few restaurants. My favourite Verona restaurants ended up being down the side roads away from the main road in as those tended to be overpriced and for tourists. Here are top restaurants in Verona Italy.
La Griglia
Located in a 19th-century building just 20 meters from the Arena, La Griglia offers an elegant dining experience with Roman columns and two intimate rooms featuring an open fireplace. Specializing in carefully selected meats grilled on an open flame, the restaurant serves exquisite dishes like Florentine steak and homemade gnocchetti with black truffle, complemented by 24-month aged Parma ham and a warm, refined atmosphere.
View more details for La Griglia
Ristorante Il Cenacolo
In Verona's historic center near the Arena and Teatro Filarmonico, Ristorante Il Cenacolo has been a culinary landmark since 1980. This refined restaurant offers traditional Italian and Veronese cuisine, perfectly grilled meats, and an excellent wine selection
View the Ristorante Il Cenacolo menu
Antica Trattoria Pero D'Oro
i\In the historic Veronetta quarter, Antica Trattoria Pero D'Oro occupies the ground floor of a 15th-century palace. With classic decor and a warm, inviting atmosphere, this trattoria offers an authentic, family-friendly dining experience. Beloved by locals for its quality, affordable cuisine, it provides a genuine taste of traditional Veronese cooking.
View the Antica Trattoria Pero D'Oro menu
Thank You for Exploring Verona
We hope this Verona travel guide has inspired your journey through one of Italy's most enchanting cities. Verona's blend of history, romance, and culinary delights offers something magical for everyone.
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