I first visited Verona on a very chilly New Year’s trip in 2014 with Luca. Six years later, we returned in summer to celebrate his mom’s birthday — and fell in love with the city all over again. Sunlight warmed the piazzas, the river shimmered, and we sipped Amarone in some amazing restaurants.
Verona is one of those cities that surprises you — not too big, not too touristy, and overflowing with charm. It sits right in the middle of the Veneto region, surrounded by some of northern Italy’s most beautiful places, yet it still feels personal and easy to explore. From open-air opera at the ancient Arena di Verona to romantic walks along the Adige River, it’s perfect for a weekend escape or as part of a northern Italy itinerary.
This travel guide brings together the best things to do in Verona, plus tips on where to eat, where to stay, and a few memorable day trips. Everything I’m sharing is based on personal experience — including one of my favorite wine tastings ever at a centuries-old estate just outside the city.
How to get to Verona
Verona is easily accessible by train. From Rome, high-speed trains take just over 3 hours; from Milan or Venice, you’ll be there in under 90 minutes. The main station is Verona Porta Nuova, about a 20-minute walk or short bus ride from the historic center.
We once drove from Rome so we could visit Tuscany on the way — but if you’re focusing on the city itself, the train is more convenient and stress-free.
Where to stay in Verona
Verona is compact and walkable, so most central areas are great. I’ve stayed near Piazza Bra both times — it’s steps from the Arena and a fantastic base for exploring. Other excellent areas include:
- Porta Borsari: Ideal for those who love boutique hotels and charming streets
- Piazza delle Erbe: Close to restaurants, bars, and Verona’s oldest piazza
Best Things to Do in Verona, Italy
Verona may be known as the city of Romeo and Juliet, but there’s so much more to discover than just a balcony. From ancient Roman landmarks to scenic river walks, cozy wine bars to world-class opera, Verona is the kind of city that makes you want to slow down and stay a little longer. Here are the best things to do in Verona.
1. Stroll Piazza Bra & Visit the Arena di Verona
Strolling through Piazza Bra is a must-have experience. This piazza is the largest one in Verona and boasts the famed Arena di Verona, a 2000-year-old amphitheater turned world-renowned concert venue. The piazza is lined with restaurants and cafes, and is connected to the popular Via Giuseppe Mazzini with designer stores.
2. Catch a concert at the Arena di Verona
Seeing a show at the Arena di Verona is hands down one of the most magical things to do in the city — especially if you’re visiting in summer. On our last trip, we saw Il Volo perform a tribute to Ennio Morricone, and the atmosphere was unforgettable. The concert was aired on national television and was fantastic. Sitting under the stars in a 2,000-year-old amphitheater as the music echoed off ancient stone? Goosebumps.
If there’s no concert during your stay, you can still tour the arena during the day and imagine the performances that have filled the space since Roman times. Either way, it’s a must-see.
3. Aperitivo at Piazza delle Erbe
One of my favorite piazzas in all of Italy, Piazza delle Erbe is the perfect place for a late afternoon aperitivo. The piazza is surrounded by colorful medieval and Renaissance buildings, market stalls, and lively bars. Grab a spritz and sit outside to people-watch — especially at golden hour, when the light hits the facades just right.
This square has been the center of life in Verona for centuries and was once the site of the Roman forum. Don’t forget to look up: the frescoes on the buildings are incredible.
4. Go wine tasting in Valpolicella: visit Villa Mosconi Bertani
Verona is at the heart of one of Italy’s most important wine regions. The surrounding hills are home to the Valpolicella wine region, famous for producing rich, full-bodied Amarone della Valpolicella, along with Valpolicella Classico, Ripasso, and the crisp white Soave wines. If you’re a wine lover, this is your chance to taste some of Italy’s most prized DOC and DOCG labels right at the source.
One of the most beautiful ways to experience this local wine culture is by visiting Villa Mosconi Bertani, a historic estate just 20 minutes from Verona. We booked a guided tour and loved every second of it. The villa itself is stunning — an 18th-century neoclassical masterpiece surrounded by vineyards, gardens, and cypress-lined paths. It once hosted writers and poets during Italy’s Romantic era, and the estate still has that quiet, elegant charm.
After a tour through the villa’s gardens and ancient wine cellars, we sat down for a guided tasting of four wines: Soave, Valpolicella Classico, Valpolicella Ripasso, and the estate’s Amarone — the star of the show. The guide explained everything from grape varieties (Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara…) to winemaking techniques, and how Amarone is made through a special appassimento drying process. Just be sure to book in advance, especially during weekends or summer.
5. Visit Castelvecchio and Walk Along the Riverside
On the other side of town, Castelvecchio is a 14th-century castle and fortress that now houses a museum. Even if you skip the museum, walking across the Castelvecchio Bridge (Ponte Scaligero) is a must — the views of the river are beautiful, and the architecture is pure medieval drama.
This area is especially nice for a late afternoon walk. You’ll find fewer crowds and some great photo ops as the sun starts to set over the Adige.
6. Explore Verona’s Art and History in Its Museums
Verona has some surprisingly good museums if you’re into art and history. The Castelvecchio Museum is especially impressive, with a mix of medieval art, sculpture, and military history all housed inside the castle. We also visited the Galleria d’Arte Moderna (Modern Art Gallery), which had some interesting contemporary works, mostly by Italian artists.
We had planned to visit Palazzo Maffei, which houses works by Picasso, Magritte, and Morandi, but it was closed at the time. It’s definitely on my list for next time.
7. Take a Day Trip from Verona
Verona is incredibly well-connected, which makes it the perfect base for day trips around the Veneto. Here are a few top picks:
- Soave & Valpolicella wine regions: Perfect for more wine tastings and vineyard views.
- Lake Garda: Just 20 minutes by train. Go for a boat ride, lunch by the lake, or just stroll the cute towns like Peschiera or Bardolino.
- Venice: Only 1.5 hours by train — doable as a day trip, but better if you stay longer.
- Padua: Under an hour away and full of history, art, and the famous Scrovegni Chapel.
Where to eat in Verona: myy favorite restaurants
Verona has no shortage of great restaurants — from cozy wine bars to elegant osterias tucked away in quiet alleyways. The food here reflects the richness of the region: think handmade pastas, slow-cooked meats, and the region’s pride and joy, Amarone wine.
A must-try dish? Risotto all’Amarone, made with local red wine and often finished with Monte Veronese cheese. If you’re into cured meats, cheeses, and rich northern flavors, you’re going to be very happy here.
These are my favorite places to eat in Verona — based on personal meals, local tips, and trusted recommendations.
1. Ristorante Torcolo – for a classic Veronese dinner near Piazza Bra
📍 Piazza Gavino, 37121 Verona
💰 Average Price: €45–60 per person
Tucked in a quiet piazza just steps from Piazza Bra, Ristorante Torcolo is one of those timeless restaurants where everything just feels right — from the attentive service to the beautifully plated dishes.
They have outdoor seating in the warmer months and an inviting dining room in winter. The menu looks like an old-school newspaper and is divided into seafood and meat specialties. I loved the scampi tartare, the spaghetti with garlic, oil, chili and clams, and of course, the Amarone risotto, which was velvety, rich, and deeply flavorful. Wine lovers will appreciate the thoughtful selection, which highlights local bottles from the Veneto and beyond.
2. Antica Bottega del Vino – For wine lovers and traditional dishes
📍 Via Scudo di Francia 3, 37121 Verona
💰 Average Price: €50–70 per person
This historic osteria dates back to the 16th century and is a wine lover’s dream. The walls are lined with bottles, quotes about wine are scribbled on the chalkboard walls, and the wine list is literally a book.
We fell hard for the homemade gnocchi with duck ragù — rich, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth — and their Amarone risotto is also a standout. The vibe is old-school and cozy, perfect for a romantic dinner or a meal with friends who are just as excited about wine as you are.
3. Enoteca Segreta – For a quiet dinner with great wine near Juliet’s House
📍 Vicolo Samaritana 10, 37121 Verona
💰 Average Price: €45–60 per person
This hidden gem is located near Casa di Giulietta, but it feels far away from the crowds. It’s small, intimate, and has that perfect “locals know” energy. We had a fantastic dinner here a few years ago and still talk about it.
We started with a selection of local cured meats and cheeses, followed by gnocchi with chicken ragù and tortelli filled with smoked salmon. The sommelier introduced us to a wine we’ve since hunted down across Italy — always a good sign.
4. Signorvino – for a casual lunch with local food and wine
📍 Via Preare 15, 37124 Verona
💰 Average Price: €25–40 per person
Part wine shop, part wine bar, part casual restaurant, Signorvino is right next to the Arena di Verona and makes for a great pre-show or aperitivo stop. Owned by the Calzedonia Group, it’s more modern and a little more informal — but the quality is there.
We ordered San Daniele prosciutto with pinsa, a cheese board, and a vegetarian platter — all beautifully presented and perfect for sharing. You can buy any wine from the shelves and drink it at the table with a small corkage fee, which makes this spot super affordable if you’re into trying different Italian wines.
5. Osteria del Bugiardo – for casual vibes and a glass of Valpolicella
📍 Corso Porta Borsari 17/A, 37121 Verona
💰 Average Price: €25–35 per person
If you’re looking for something informal and full of local character, Osteria del Bugiardo is the place. It’s cozy and always buzzing, with exposed brick walls, wooden tables, and shelves stacked with bottles from Buglioni Winery.
They serve Valpolicella Ripasso, cheese and salumi boards, polenta, and other comforting northern Italian bites. Perfect for lunch, aperitivo, or a relaxed dinner near Piazza delle Erbe.
6. Il Cenacolo – For grilled specialties and Veronese classics
📍 Via Teatro Filarmonico 10, 37121 Verona
💰 Average Price: €45–65 per person
This restaurant came recommended by a local, and while we didn’t get to try it personally, it’s been on my list ever since. Il Cenacolo is known for its grilled meats, homemade pasta, and a wine list that includes some of the best bottles from Amarone producers.
The space is cozy and welcoming — great for a comforting, hearty dinner after a day of sightseeing.
7. Osteria Ponte Pietra – For dinner with a riverside view
📍 Via Ponte Pietra 34, 37121 Verona
💰 Average Price: €40–60 per person
This osteria was recommended by one of my followers, and I’ve bookmarked it for next time. Located by the Adige River, it offers outdoor seating with a romantic view of Ponte Pietra, especially beautiful at sunset.
The menu leans traditional with modern touches, and it’s ideal for a quiet, scenic meal that still feels very local.
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