Picture this: you’re standing in a 2,000-year-old Roman amphitheater as opera music fills the evening air, surrounded by ancient pink marble walls that have witnessed centuries of history. This is Verona, and it’s calling your name.
While many travelers know Verona as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, this enchanting northern Italian city offers so much more than a famous balcony. Nestled along the curves of the Adige River and crowned by UNESCO World Heritage status, Verona seamlessly blends Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and vibrant modern culture into an unforgettable destination.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a cultural escape, or simply want to discover one of Italy’s most beautiful cities, this guide covers all the incredible things to do in Verona that will make your visit truly magical.
Marvel at the Arena di Verona
When discussing things to do in Verona, the Arena di Verona absolutely tops the list. This magnificent Roman amphitheater, built in the first century AD, stands as one of the best-preserved ancient structures in the world.
Unlike Rome’s Colosseum, the Arena is still very much alive. During summer months, it transforms into one of the world’s most spectacular opera venues, hosting the prestigious Verona Opera Festival from June through September.
The sheer scale of this monument is breathtaking. Originally capable of holding 30,000 spectators, the Arena’s 44 tiers of pink marble create an architectural masterpiece that dominates Piazza Bra.
Even if you visit during the day, walking through the ancient corridors and standing on the sand-covered stage where gladiators once battled is an unforgettable experience. The acoustic design remains so perfect that performers can sing without microphones, their voices carrying to every seat.
If you’re visiting during opera season, attending a performance is absolutely one of the best things to do in Verona. Tickets start around 35 euros for upper-tier stone seats, making this world-class cultural experience surprisingly accessible.
The amphitheater is open Tuesday through Sunday from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM, with Monday hours starting at 1:30 PM. Consider purchasing a Verona Card for skip-the-line access and combined entry to multiple attractions.
Visit Juliet’s Balcony and House
No list of things to do in Verona would be complete without mentioning Casa di Giulietta. While the connection to Shakespeare’s fictional lovers may be romanticized, the experience remains a quintessential Verona attraction.
The 13th-century building features the famous balcony where, according to legend, Juliet stood when Romeo declared his love. The courtyard below hosts a bronze statue of Juliet, though be aware that touching it for good luck has become somewhat controversial.
The reality is that this site was transformed into “Juliet’s House” in the 1930s, with the balcony being added from a spare medieval sarcophagus. But does that diminish its charm? Not necessarily.
The courtyard entrance is free, though expect crowds, especially during peak season. If you want to enter the house itself and stand on the balcony, tickets cost 12 euros.
Advanced booking is mandatory, even with a Verona Card. Reserve your time slot through the official museum website to avoid disappointment.
The house is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 7 PM, closed on Mondays. For the best experience, visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the busiest crowds.
Climb Torre dei Lamberti for Panoramic Views
Want to see Verona from above? Torre dei Lamberti offers one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the city and ranks among the top things to do in Verona for photography enthusiasts.
This 84-meter bell tower, built between the 12th and 15th centuries, soars above Piazza delle Erbe in the heart of the historic center. You have two options for reaching the top: climb all 368 steps for a workout with views, or take the elevator for most of the journey.
Once at the top, you’ll understand why this climb is worth it. Terracotta rooftops stretch in every direction, the Adige River winds through the city, and the distant mountains create a stunning backdrop.
The tower connects to Palazzo della Ragione, home to the Galleria d’Arte Moderna Achille Forti. Consider combining both attractions for a cultural afternoon.
One small drawback is the protective netting at the viewing platform, which can make photography challenging. However, the views remain absolutely spectacular, especially during golden hour.
The tower opens daily, with hours from 10 AM to 6 PM Monday through Friday, and 11 AM to 7 PM on weekends. Tickets cost 6 euros for adults, with discounts for children and seniors, or free with the Verona Card.
Explore Castelvecchio and Its Bridge
Castelvecchio, meaning “old castle,” stands as one of the most impressive things to do in Verona for history lovers. This 14th-century fortress was built by the powerful Scaliger family as both a residence and defensive stronghold.
The castle’s red brick walls and crenellated towers create a fairytale appearance along the Adige River. Today, it houses a civic museum featuring medieval art, Renaissance paintings, and sculptures.
While the museum’s focus on Christian medieval art may not appeal to everyone, the architectural restoration by Carlo Scarpa is considered a masterpiece of converting historic buildings into modern museums.
The real highlight, however, is the Ponte Scaligero (also called Ponte di Castelvecchio). This magnificent fortified bridge, originally built in the 1350s, was destroyed during World War II and painstakingly rebuilt using original materials.
Walking across this bridge offers some of the most photogenic views in Verona. The red brickwork against the green waters of the Adige creates perfect Instagram moments.
The courtyard and bridge are free to explore, making this one of the best free things to do in Verona. Museum entry costs 9 euros, or 2 euros for young adults aged 18-25, and free for children under 18 or Verona Card holders.
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM, closed Mondays. It’s also free for everyone on the first Sunday of each month from November through March.
Watch Sunset from Castel San Pietro
For the absolute best view in Verona, head to Castel San Pietro as the sun begins to set. This hilltop viewpoint offers sweeping panoramas of the entire historic center and is consistently rated among the top things to do in Verona by visitors.
You can reach the viewpoint two ways: climb the steep stone staircase from Ponte Pietra for a 10-minute workout, or take the convenient funicular that whisks you up in less than a minute.
The funicular operates year-round and costs just 2 euros one-way or 3 euros round-trip, with discounts for children, seniors, and free access for people with disabilities and their carers.
Once at the top, you’ll find multiple viewpoints offering different perspectives. The left side showcases the historic center with its church spires and Roman Arena, while the right side presents stunning vistas of the Adige River winding into the countryside.
During golden hour, the terracotta rooftops glow warmly, and as darkness falls, the city lights create a romantic atmosphere. It’s no wonder this spot attracts couples from around the world.
There are two casual dining options at the top: Re Teodorico for meals with views, and Bar Funicolare for drinks and snacks. Alternatively, bring your own refreshments and enjoy a picnic while watching the sunset.
The funicular station is located on Via Santo Stefano, just across Ponte Pietra from the historic center. Summer hours (April to October) run until 9 PM, while winter hours (November to March) end at 5 PM.
Wander Through Piazza delle Erbe
Piazza delle Erbe, the “Square of Herbs,” has been Verona’s beating heart for over two thousand years. Originally the Roman forum, this stunning piazza remains one of the most vibrant things to do in Verona for soaking up the local atmosphere.
The square is surrounded by gorgeously frescoed buildings, including the Mazzanti Houses with their colorful facades. In the center, you’ll find the Madonna Verona fountain, featuring a Roman statue dating back to the 4th century.
Daily market stalls sell everything from fresh produce and flowers to souvenirs and local crafts. The surrounding cafes and restaurants offer perfect people-watching opportunities, though prices reflect the prime location.
One fascinating detail: look for the whale bone hanging from the Arco della Costa, the arch connecting Piazza delle Erbe to Piazza dei Signori. This mysterious rib bone has dangled there since the 17th century, its origin and purpose still unknown.
From the piazza, explore the charming side streets like Corso Sant’Anastasia, lined with boutique shops, traditional delis, and the beautiful Santa Anastasia Basilica.
The square is accessible 24/7 and free to explore, making it one of the best things to do in Verona on any budget. Visit in the morning for the liveliest market atmosphere, or return at night when street performers and musicians create magical entertainment.
Experience Things to Do in Verona at Night
Verona transforms after dark, offering countless enchanting things to do in Verona at night that showcase the city’s romantic character.
Start your evening with aperitivo, the beloved Italian tradition of pre-dinner drinks and snacks. Head to Piazza Bra, where cafes and bars line the square facing the illuminated Arena. Order a Spritz Veneziano or local wine and watch the city come alive.
For a more authentic experience, cross the Adige to Veronetta, the trendy university district. Osteria ai Portegheti serves exceptional local wines for 2.50 to 5 euros per glass under beautiful porticoes, attracting a young, energetic crowd.
The illuminated bridges and historic buildings create perfect conditions for an evening stroll. Walk along the Adige riverfront or cross Ponte Pietra for spectacular nighttime photography opportunities.
If you’re visiting during the opera season (June through September), attending a performance at the Arena is absolutely the most spectacular thing to do in Verona at night. Under the stars, surrounded by ancient walls, world-class opera creates unforgettable memories.
For cocktails with atmosphere, try Art Café LimeOlé House in Veronetta. This moody bar features exposed brick, creative cocktails using ingredients like saffron and cardamom, and stays open late into the night.
Many churches and monuments remain beautifully lit after dark, including the Arena, Torre dei Lamberti, and the bridges. Simply wandering the historic center’s cobblestone streets becomes magical under streetlights and moonlight.
Discover Piazza dei Signori and Scaliger Tombs
Just steps from Piazza delle Erbe, Piazza dei Signori offers a more refined, elegant atmosphere and represents one of the essential things to do in Verona for history enthusiasts.
This sophisticated square is enclosed by impressive Renaissance and medieval buildings, including the Palazzo della Ragione, Loggia del Consiglio, and Palazzo del Capitanio.
At the center stands a statue of Dante Alighieri, who found refuge in Verona during his exile from Florence. The square occasionally hosts cultural events and exhibitions.
Don’t miss the Scaliger Tombs (Arche Scaligere) just outside the square. These elaborate Gothic funerary monuments honor the della Scala family, Verona’s medieval rulers.
The suspended sarcophagi and intricate ironwork create a hauntingly beautiful memorial. The most impressive tomb belongs to Cangrande I della Scala, featuring an equestrian statue and ornate decorations.
Both the square and the external viewing of the tombs are free, making this one of the best things to do in Verona for budget-conscious travelers. The square is open 24/7, though the area is most atmospheric during daylight hours or early evening.
Visit the Duomo di Verona
Verona’s cathedral, officially known as Cattedrale di Santa Maria Matricolare, showcases stunning Romanesque and Gothic architecture. While it may not receive as much attention as other attractions, the Duomo di Verona deserves a place on your list of things to do in Verona.
The cathedral’s ornate facade features carved portal decorations and beautiful stonework. Inside, magnificent frescoes, impressive organs, and intricate altarpieces create a peaceful spiritual atmosphere.
The church dates back to the 12th century, though it was built on the site of earlier religious structures, including a 4th-century church destroyed by earthquake.
A combined ticket (8 euros) grants access to the Duomo plus three other historic Verona churches: Sant’Anastasia, San Zeno Maggiore, and San Fermo Maggiore. Individual entry costs 4 euros per church.
If you’re selective about church visits, this combination ticket represents excellent value and makes seeing multiple churches among the most economical things to do in Verona.
The cathedral is located near Ponte Pietra, making it easy to combine with other nearby attractions. Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees) and maintain respectful behavior inside.
Opening hours vary by season, but generally run from 10 AM to 5:30 PM Tuesday through Saturday, with shorter Sunday hours and Monday closures. Always check current times before visiting.
Experience San Zeno Maggiore Basilica
San Zeno Maggiore is widely considered Verona’s most beautiful church and one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in northern Italy. This makes it essential among things to do in Verona for architecture lovers.
The facade immediately captivates with its ornate bronze doors depicting biblical scenes and the life of San Zeno, Verona’s patron saint. These 11th-century doors are masterpieces of medieval craftsmanship.
Inside, the church impresses with its simple yet powerful design. The magnificent altarpiece by Andrea Mantegna, painted in 1457-1459, is the artistic highlight. The crypt houses the relics of San Zeno in a glass coffin.
According to tradition, this church is where Romeo and Juliet were married in Shakespeare’s play, adding literary significance to its historical and architectural importance.
The basilica is located in the western part of Verona, about a 20-minute walk from the historic center. The surrounding neighborhood features charming colorful streets worth exploring.
Entry costs 4 euros, or it’s included in the combined church ticket mentioned earlier and free with the Verona Card. The church opens Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM, Sunday 12:30 PM to 6 PM, closed Mondays.
Beautiful gardens surround the church, providing peaceful spots for rest and reflection. Masses are still held regularly, so visit times may be restricted during services.
Indulge in Verona’s Food Scene
Exploring Verona’s culinary delights ranks among the most delicious things to do in Verona. The city offers extraordinary food experiences that blend traditional Venetian cuisine with local specialties.
Start with aperitivo, that magical Italian tradition of pre-dinner drinks accompanied by complimentary snacks. Many bars in Piazza Bra and Piazza delle Erbe offer excellent options, though you’ll pay tourist prices.
For authentic local pasta, visit La Bottega della Gina. This gem, run by Simone and Silvia, sells fresh handmade pasta including incredible truffle tortellini. Choose eight pieces per person to cook at home or enjoy for a quick lunch.
Pizza lovers shouldn’t miss Saporé Pizza Stand UP near Torre dei Lamberti. Despite its casual appearance, this spot serves innovative PizzaCrunch and PizzaDoppioCrunch from renowned chef Renato Bosco.
For traditional sit-down meals, Pizzeria Du De Cope hides through an unmarked entrance but rewards those who find it with delicious, reasonably priced pizza in an authentic atmosphere.
Don’t forget gelato. L’arte del Gelato serves artisanal flavors that rival the best in Italy. Multiple scoops cost around 2-4 euros, making this one of the tastiest affordable things to do in Verona.
Vegetarians and vegans will love Ristorante Vegano Biologico La Lanterna, which authentically prepares traditional Italian dishes with high-quality meat alternatives. Last seating for lunch is 2 PM.
For a unique experience, join a pasta-making cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare fresh pasta and tiramisu, complete with wine and the recipes to recreate dishes at home.
Take a Wine Tour to Valpolicella
Just 30 minutes from Verona lies Valpolicella, one of Italy’s most prestigious wine regions and home to the legendary Amarone. Wine tasting tours make for exceptional things to do in Verona for wine enthusiasts.
Valpolicella produces several renowned wines, including Amarone (rich, full-bodied red), Ripasso (medium-bodied with dried fruit notes), and Recioto (sweet dessert wine).
Multiple tour options depart from Verona, ranging from half-day experiences to full-day excursions with lunch. Most include visits to two or three wineries, vineyard tours, and guided tastings with expert sommeliers.
You’ll learn about the unique appassimento process, where grapes are dried for months before fermentation, concentrating flavors and creating Amarone’s distinctive character.
Don’t have time for a vineyard tour? Verona’s bars and restaurants serve excellent local wines at great prices. Glasses of Amarone start around 3-5 euros, making wine tasting one of the most enjoyable affordable things to do in Verona.
The Veneto region also produces other excellent wines from areas like Soave, Bardolino, and the famous Prosecco hills. Wine bars throughout Verona offer tastings featuring wines from across the region.
For an in-city experience, book a private Amarone tasting with a sommelier or join a group tasting session with panoramic city views. These experiences typically last 1-2 hours and include multiple wine samples with local snacks.
Explore the Veronetta Neighborhood
Cross the Adige River to discover Veronetta, Verona’s hip university quarter and one of the best things to do in Verona for travelers seeking authentic local atmosphere away from tourist crowds.
This vibrant neighborhood pulses with youth energy, thanks to the large student population. Cool bars, independent cafes, and affordable restaurants line the streets.
Giardino Giusti, a magnificent Renaissance garden, offers peaceful respite with perfectly manicured hedges, Italian cypress trees, and geometric designs that have impressed visitors for centuries. Entry costs 13 euros (9 euros with Verona Card).
For drinks, Ratafià serves excellent wine and craft beer with delicious cicchetti (small plates), making it perfect for aperitivo. The atmosphere feels authentically local rather than tourist-focused.
Coffee lovers should visit Dolciaria Cantonucci for excellent espresso and pastries. Arte Café LimeOlé House offers creative cocktails in a moody atmosphere with exposed brick and cozy seating.
Libre! combines an independent bookshop, cultural space, organic produce shop, and artisanal boutique into one fascinating stop.
The neighborhood itself rewards aimless wandering. Colorful facades, street art, and quiet piazzas create a more relaxed pace than the historic center.
Many Airbnbs and budget accommodations are located here, offering excellent value. The location remains convenient, just a 10-minute walk across Ponte delle Navi or Ponte Nuovo to the main attractions.
Cross Ponte Pietra
Ponte Pietra, meaning “Stone Bridge,” stands as Verona’s oldest bridge and one of the most photogenic things to do in Verona for architecture admirers and photographers.
This elegant Roman bridge dates back to 100 BC, though it has been rebuilt and modified multiple times throughout history. The most recent reconstruction followed its destruction by retreating German forces in 1945.
The restoration used original stones recovered from the Adige River, maintaining historical authenticity. Today, the bridge beautifully combines Roman arches with a medieval brick tower.
Walk across for stunning views of the riverside buildings, the Adige’s green waters, and the hills beyond. The bridge provides perfect vantage points for photographing Castel San Pietro, Teatro Romano, and the charming buildings lining the riverbank.
The bridge is particularly beautiful at sunset when golden light bathes the ancient stones, or after dark when strategic lighting creates magical reflections on the water.
Near the Verona end, the small Teatro Romano (Roman Theatre) offers additional historical interest if you have time and the Verona Card for free entry.
The bridge is always accessible and completely free, making it one of the best things to do in Verona regardless of budget. The pedestrian-only design allows you to stop, photograph, and admire without worrying about traffic.
Visit Juliet’s Tomb
While Casa di Giulietta attracts massive crowds, Juliet’s Tomb (Tomba di Giulietta) offers a quieter, more reflective experience and makes for interesting things to do in Verona for literary enthusiasts.
Located in a former Franciscan convent about 15 minutes’ walk from the historic center, the site includes both the supposed tomb and the excellent Museum of Frescoes (Museo degli Affreschi).
The museum deserves the visit even if you’re skeptical about Juliet’s tomb. The collection features detached frescoes from buildings throughout Verona, some dating back to 996 AD.
Learning about fresco techniques, pigments, and the painstaking process of detaching and preserving these artworks provides fascinating cultural insight.
The 14th-century works by Altichiero are particularly impressive, showcasing the skill and artistry that once decorated buildings throughout what was known as “the painted city.”
The tomb itself sits in an atmospheric crypt. While its connection to Shakespeare’s fictional Juliet is purely a romantic invention, the setting has attracted literary pilgrims for centuries, including Charles Dickens and Lord Byron.
Entry costs 6 euros for adults with reduced rates for children and concessions, or free with the Verona Card. Tickets can be purchased at the door without advance booking.
The museum opens Tuesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM, closed Mondays. The location on Via Luigi da Porto places it slightly off the main tourist trail but within easy walking distance.
Enjoy Day Trips from Verona
Verona’s central location makes it perfect for exploring surrounding attractions. Day trips rank among the most rewarding things to do in Verona for visitors with extra time.
Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, lies just 30 minutes away. Charming towns like Sirmione, Bardolino, and Malcesine offer stunning scenery, water sports, and relaxation.
The Prosecco Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provide beautiful vineyard landscapes and excellent wine tasting opportunities. Join guided tours departing from Verona.
Venice is only 75 minutes by train, making it feasible (though rushed) for a day trip. However, we recommend staying overnight to fully appreciate the city of canals.
Mantua (Mantova), just 45 minutes away, impresses with its Ducal Palace, Palazzo Te, and charming historic center. It sees far fewer tourists than Verona despite its beauty.
Madonna della Corona Sanctuary, a stunning 17th-century church built into a rocky cliffside, makes for an unforgettable excursion. Renting a car provides the easiest access to this unique site.
The Dolomites, some of Europe’s most spectacular mountains, are within reach for early starts and full-day trips. Consider basing yourself in Verona before or after Dolomites adventures.
Bologna, Italy’s food capital, lies 1-1.5 hours away by train. Climbing the Two Towers and hiking the world’s longest portico make for memorable experiences.
High-speed trains connect Verona to Milan (1.5 hours), Florence (2 hours), and Rome (3 hours), though these destinations deserve overnight stays rather than day trips.
Best Things to Do in Verona: Practical Tips
Planning your visit? Here are essential tips for making the most of things to do in Verona:
When to Visit:
April-May and September-October offer ideal weather, smaller crowds, and more affordable accommodation. June-August brings peak crowds and the Opera Festival. November-March sees fewer tourists but some attractions have reduced hours.
How Long to Stay:
While many attempt Verona in one day, three full days allows you to truly appreciate the city without rushing. Two days represents a good compromise for combining major attractions with leisure time.
Verona Card:
This tourist card (24 or 48 hours) includes free entry to most attractions, unlimited public transport, and skip-the-line access. It costs around 27 euros and provides excellent value if you plan to visit multiple sites.
Getting Around:
The historic center is compact and walkable. Most top things to do in Verona lie within 15-20 minutes of each other on foot. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for cobblestones.
Where to Stay:
The historic center offers convenience at higher prices. Veronetta provides an authentic atmosphere and better value. San Zeno and areas west of Castelvecchio offer quieter alternatives with charm.
Free Things:
Many top things to do in Verona are free, including wandering Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori, crossing all bridges, viewing Juliet’s Balcony from the courtyard, and enjoying sunset views from Castel San Pietro.
Avoiding Crowds:
Visit major attractions early in the morning or late afternoon. The Arena and Juliet’s House are busiest mid-day. Consider visiting on weekdays rather than weekends when possible.
Final Thoughts: Things to Do in Verona
Verona captivates visitors with its perfect blend of ancient history, Renaissance art, romantic legend, and contemporary Italian culture. From standing in the Arena imagining gladiatorial combat to sipping Amarone while watching sunset over terracotta rooftops, the experiences here create lasting memories.
The city rewards both structured sightseeing and spontaneous wandering. Yes, you should see the famous attractions, but also leave time to get lost in quiet side streets, linger over long lunches, and simply soak up the atmosphere of daily Italian life.
Whether you’re drawn by Shakespeare’s lovers, ancient Roman engineering, world-class opera, or exceptional wine and food, Verona delivers on all counts. The city remains refreshingly authentic despite its popularity, maintaining genuine character that makes every visit special.
Don’t rush through Verona as a quick stop between Venice and Milan. This city deserves your time and attention. The more you explore, the more you’ll understand why Verona has enchanted travelers for centuries and why these things to do in Verona create such powerful, romantic memories.
Start planning your Verona adventure today. Fair Verona awaits with open arms, ready to share its treasures with you.
FAQs
1. What is Verona best known for?
Verona is famous for its well-preserved Roman Arena, its romantic association with Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, and its stunning blend of ancient and Renaissance architecture.
2. How many days do you need to explore Verona?
Two to three days are ideal to see Verona’s main attractions, enjoy local cuisine, and take in its charming streets at a relaxed pace.
3. What’s the best time to visit Verona?
The best time to visit Verona is during spring (April–May) or fall (September–October) for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lively cultural events.
4. Is Verona walkable for tourists?
Yes! Verona’s historic center is compact and easily explored on foot; most major attractions are within a 15-minute walk of each other.
5. What are the must-see attractions in Verona?
Don’t miss the Arena di Verona, Juliet’s Balcony, Castelvecchio, Piazza delle Erbe, and the panoramic view from Castel San Pietro.
