Explore Roman ruins, taste local wines, and wander medieval streets in this charming Italian gem.
Let's create unforgettable memories in Romeo's city.
Thao Vo
Jan 16 2026
15m
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Awesome things to do in Verona await! Are you ready to explore this stunning Italian city, famed for its ancient Roman wonders and, of course, a certain legendary romance? Verona is just bursting with charm, from its incredible Arena to those gorgeous, buzzing piazzas.
But with so many amazing sights, delicious food, and charming streets to explore, figuring out how to make the most of your time can feel a bit like navigating a beautiful maze, right? That’s exactly why we’ve created this guide! Travelthru is here to show you all the must-see attractions, point out some delightful hidden corners, share tips for yummy eats, and even help you sketch out the perfect day for your trip.
The Verona Arena is a very old Roman amphitheater and a famous landmark in the city of Verona. It was built way back in the 1st century. Today, it's a place where you can see amazing operas, concerts, and other big events.
When there are no shows, you can go inside and walk around. It’s a historic place where you can imagine what life was like thousands of years ago. You can walk through the same hallways people used a long, long time ago, sit in the arena, or even test out how good the sound is in the open air.
A daytime sightseeing ticket costs €12, while Opera tickets range from €30 to over €300 depending on your seat.
If you want to know what shows are playing, you can check the Arena’s official website.
One of Verona's most famous places is Casa di Giulietta, which means Juliet's House. This is where you'll find the well-known balcony from which Juliet is said to have called out to her love.
It might seem strange, especially since their story ends sadly, but this house is a very popular spot for couples. For many, visiting Juliet's House is high on their list of things to see and do in Verona, Italy, as they consider it one of the most romantic places in the city.
You'll see lots of writings on the walls left by lovers. There's also a statue of Juliet, and her chest area is shiny because so many people rub it for good luck.
Entering the house and stepping onto the balcony costs €12, though the courtyard itself is usually free (except during busy holiday periods).
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You really cannot visit Verona without seeing this masterpiece. It is one of the best examples of Romanesque architecture in all of Italy. But most people come here for the romance. Shakespeare fans will recognize the crypt immediately. It is the fictional setting of Romeo and Juliet’s secret wedding. The bronze doors are also incredible. You will see bible scenes carved right into the metal. It is a bit of a walk from the center, but it is absolutely worth the steps.
Tickets cost €4, or you can buy the "4 Churches" pass for €8, which gets you into this one plus the Duomo, Santa Anastasia, and San Fermo.
This is actually the largest church in Verona. You will find it right near the river. The interior is massive and beautiful, but look for the two "hunchback" statues near the entrance. They support the holy water fonts on their backs. Locals believe rubbing their humps brings good luck.
Just walk through the archway from the busy Piazza delle Erbe. You will find yourself in Piazza dei Signori. Locals often call this Verona’s "living room" because it feels so enclosed and intimate.
The first thing you will notice is the statue of Dante Alighieri in the center. The famous poet lived here in exile for a while. He looks quite serious as he watches over the square. This spot is usually quieter than the main market square. It's an ideal spot to pause for a coffee and appreciate the stunning architecture of the Loggia del Consiglio.
While the square is free to enjoy, climbing the nearby Lamberti Tower for the view will cost you €6.
Piazza Bra is Verona's largest and most famous square. The first thing you'll notice is the mighty Verona Arena, the ancient Roman amphitheater, dominating one side. You'll also see other grand buildings and the "Liston," a wide pavement buzzing with cafes.
It's a fantastic spot to wander, people-watch, and get amazing photos of the Arena. While enjoying a drink at a café on the Liston is popular, these can be a bit pricey, so keep that in mind if you're on a budget. It’s the perfect place to start your Verona exploration.
Piazza delle Erbe is Verona's main market square, and it's always full of life. Old, colorful buildings surround it, showing off the city's history. The square has a great mix of old charm and a busy market feel. You can shop for local crafts, fruits, and souvenirs.
Or, you can just relax with a drink at a cafe and watch people go by. Soaking up this vibrant scene is definitely one of the most enjoyable things to do in Verona, Italy.
If you don't have much time, you can still easily walk through Piazza delle Erbe as you go to other sights. It's right in the center of town, so you'll probably see it anyway. It has a really nice feel, and the market stalls are fun to look at.
Castelvecchio is a large, old castle from the 14th century right in Verona. It's one of the city's main sights. It's a really big place to walk around (similar to the Arena), so make sure you leave plenty of time for a proper visit. Using an audio guide is a good idea because there's a lot to explore, and it will help you understand what you're seeing.
Right near Castelvecchio Castle is a nice bridge called Ponte di Castelvecchio. The family that ruled the city, the Della Scala family (or Scaligeri), built it so they could escape if they were attacked and their empire ended. And, in the end, it did. A really good place to see the bridge is from inside Castelvecchio Castle, so look for it when you're there.
If you love a bit of history that doesn't cost a penny, you'll adore Ponte Pietra (which literally means "Stone Bridge"). This beautiful arched bridge is Verona's oldest, with its origins stretching way back to Roman times, around 100 BC.
The best part? Crossing Ponte Pietra is one of the best things to do in Verona. The views of the Adige River and the colourful buildings are lovely, especially looking up towards Castel San Pietro.
Right at the northern end of Ponte Pietra, you'll find the ancient Roman Theatre (Teatro Romano) and its accompanying archaeological museum. It makes perfect sense to combine a visit to both, stepping from one piece of Roman history straight onto another.
For breathtaking views over Verona, head to the Lamberti Tower, situated above Piazza Delle Erbe. As expected from a tower, it delivers incredible vistas, giving you a real sense of how wide and flat the city is. A smart tip is to book your Lamberti Tower tickets before you get to Verona to bypass the ticket lines. Once you have your tickets, you can either take on the many stairs or opt for the convenient lift.
Even if you're short on time or cash, Verona's Duomo (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Matricolare) is a lovely stop. It's often included in the Verona Card or a combined church ticket, making it super budget-friendly.
Inside, it's surprisingly grand but peaceful. You'll see a cool mix of old architecture – chunky Romanesque bits and pointy Gothic details. The main must-see art is a stunning painting, "Assumption of the Virgin," by the famous artist Titian.
And don't miss the Baptistery (San Giovanni in Fonte) next door! It's super old and has an incredible baptismal font carved from one giant piece of marble.
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Ever seen tombs that look like mini, spiky Gothic castles? That's the Scaliger Tombs (Arche Scaligere). These are the super fancy outdoor graves of the Scaliger family, who ruled Verona in medieval times. They really wanted to show off their power, even in death.
Visiting the Scaliger Tombs is one of the free things to do in Verona, as you can see them perfectly well from the street. Sometimes, you might be able to get into the small courtyard for a closer look (check if there's a small fee or if it's on the Verona Card), but the outside view is great.
This is the golden mile of Verona. It connects the Arena directly to the historic center. The street is narrow and lined with high-end fashion boutiques. You will find Gucci, Prada, and all the big Italian names here. Even if you don't plan to spend thousands, it is a great place for window shopping. It gets very busy in the afternoons with locals doing their evening stroll. We call this the passeggiata. Join in and enjoy the energy.
Sightseeing will definitely make you hungry. But why just eat the food when you can learn to make it? We highly recommend booking a cooking class while you are here. You can get hands-on and master making fresh pasta or whip up a truly authentic tiramisu. It is a fantastic way to meet people and take a skill home with you. Plus, you get to eat your creation at the end with a glass of local Valpolicella wine. It does not get much better than that.
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Keep your eyes up when you walk between Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori. You will see a large bone hanging from an arch. It is a whale rib. No one knows exactly how it got there. But the legend is great. People say it will fall on the first person to walk under it who has never told a lie. It has been hanging there for centuries, so make of that what you will!
You might walk right past this if you aren't looking. Head to the end of Via Cappello. You will see an ancient Roman gate built into a modern wall. But the real secret is on the ground. Look through the glass railing in the sidewalk. You will see the original Roman towers and pavement right under your feet. It is a cool glimpse into the city's ancient past.
If you want to walk around a really pretty garden, go to Giardino Giusti. It's one of the best Italian gardens anywhere, and it's right next to a palace. This makes it a great place to spend an afternoon in Verona when it's sunny. You do have to pay to get in, so make sure you have enough time to see everything slowly. If you want the garden mostly to yourself, try to go early in the morning.
Verona is home to the Biblioteca Capitolare, one of the world's oldest libraries, with roots in the 5th century. It houses incredibly rare ancient manuscripts and books.
However, this isn't a walk-in attraction. To protect its treasures, visits are usually only possible via pre-booked guided tours. These aren't frequent, so you'll need to plan well ahead by checking their official website. It's more of a special experience for serious history or book lovers rather than a quick, budget stop. For most, knowing this incredible piece of history exists in Verona is fascinating enough!
Don't miss Verona's other Roman marvel, the Teatro Romano, even older than the Arena. Found on the hillside just across Ponte Pietra, you can explore its ancient stone seats and imagine performances from centuries past.
The ticket usually includes the Archaeological Museum housed above, full of Roman artifacts from Verona. A big plus: entry to both is typically included in the Verona Card, making it a great value.
As you climb, you'll get lovely views over the river and the city. If you're here in summer, check if any shows are on for a magical evening. It's a fascinating spot offering a different taste of Roman Verona.
Close to Piazza Brà is the impressive Porta Borsari gate. Built way back in the 1st century AD, it was the main way into the city during Roman times. Later, tax collectors used to charge money for goods there, which is why its name is like "the money purse gate."
The street on the other side of the gate, Corso Porta Borsari, was an old Roman road. Now, it's a nice walking street with shops, famous for its shoe stores.
Want a fun, active way for your family to see Verona? Consider a bike tour. Kids often love exploring on two wheels, covering more ground than walking, and it keeps them engaged. Many family-friendly tours stick to safer routes and even include a gelato stop.
For a more budget-flexible choice, you can simply rent bikes (look for child seats or smaller bikes) and explore at your own pace. Either way, ensure helmets are available and choose routes suitable for your children's ages. It’s a great way to make sightseeing an adventure!
>>> Besides bikes, TravelThru transfer service provides you with a comfortable way to get around Verona.
Need a break from city sights? A day trip from Verona to Lake Garda, Italy's largest lake, is fantastic for families. It's not in Verona, but easily reachable.
Kids will love the pebble beaches, fun ferry rides between charming towns, and exploring lakeside castles. For a budget-friendly day, pack a picnic and use public transport. You can take a quick train from Verona to Peschiera or Desenzano, then hop on a local ferry or bus. Enjoying the views and paddling is free.
TravelThru Tip: Pick just one or two towns like Sirmione or Lazise to explore so you're not rushed.
Kids often love a funicular ride! The short trip up the hill to Piazzale Castel San Pietro is an exciting little journey. Once at the top, you're rewarded with the best view over Verona's red rooftops and the winding Adige River.
There's space for them to move around, and it's a perfect spot to grab a well-deserved gelato while everyone enjoys the scenery. While the castle itself at the top isn't open to visit, the journey and the vista are the main attractions.
If you love red wine, this is non-negotiable. Just a short drive north of Verona, you will find the Valpolicella wine region. This is where the famous Amarone and Ripasso wines are born.
Just book a half-day tour or hire a driver. You will spend the afternoon visiting family-run vineyards, walking through the vines, and tasting some of the boldest reds in Italy. The rolling hills are absolutely stunning, too.
You have probably seen this place on Instagram. It looks like it defies gravity. The Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona is built directly into a sheer cliff face about an hour away from Verona. It is a peaceful, spiritual place with unbeatable mountain views.
You can hike down to it if you are feeling active, or catch the shuttle bus from the town of Spiazzi if you want to save your legs. It is definitely one of the most unique photo spots in the region.
If Sirmione feels too crowded, head to Soave instead. It is a picture-perfect medieval town surrounded by original defensive walls. You can spot its massive castle from miles away. The climb up to the castle offers amazing views over the vineyards. And speaking of vineyards, this town is famous for its white wine. After your castle hike, settle into a local enoteca in the town square for a glass of crisp Soave Classico.
For a real taste of Veronese cooking, seek out an osteria or trattoria. These are often family-run, cozy spots serving traditional dishes at reasonable prices.
Menus featuring local specialties like Risotto all'Amarone (creamy risotto made with the famous local red wine), Bigoli (a thick spaghetti, often with duck ragù), or Pastissada de Caval (a rich horse meat stew). For a hearty classic, try Bollito con Pearà (boiled meats with a peppery bread sauce).
Wander a street or two away from the main tourist squares like Piazza Bra, and you’ll often find better value and more authentic spots. Many osterias offer a good value "pranzo di lavoro" (worker's lunch) on weekdays.
The Italian tradition of aperitivo is always your friend when it comes to what to eat in Verona. In the early evening, many bars and "enoteche" (wine bars) offer tasty snacks or even small buffets when you buy a drink (like an Aperol Spritz or a glass of local wine). It can be a great way to have a light, budget-friendly dinner.
You can't go wrong with pizza in Italy! Look for pizzerias with wood-fired ovens. For a super quick and cheap bite, grab some "pizza al taglio" (pizza by the slice).
Paninoteche (Sandwich Shops): Perfect for a delicious and filling lunch on the go.
Forni (Bakeries): Stop by for fresh bread, focaccia, or local sweet treats. Try Verona's own Pandoro (a star-shaped Christmas cake, but you might find versions year-round) or Baci di Giulietta/Romeo (Romeo and Juliet "kisses" – almond cookies).
Markets: While Piazza delle Erbe has a historic market, you can also find stalls selling fresh fruit, perfect for a healthy snack or a simple picnic lunch.
And to drink? Verona is in the heart of the Valpolicella wine region, so trying local wines like Valpolicella Classico, a lighter Bardolino, or the richer Amarone (though Amarone by the glass can be a splurge) is a must. Don't forget the crisp white Soave, too!
While Verona could charm you for weeks, you can absolutely capture its essence and see the main highlights even on a tight schedule. So, if you're wondering what to see in Verona in one day, this itinerary is designed just for you.
Start in Piazza Bra and marvel at the impressive Verona Arena from the outside (going inside is great but takes time).
Then, take a quick walk to Juliet's House for a peek at the famous balcony.
Next, wander over to Piazza delle Erbe to immerse yourself in its lively market atmosphere. From there, it's just a short hop to Piazza dei Signori, where you'll find the incredible Scaliger Tombs waiting right beside it.
Grab a quick and cheap panino (sandwich) or a slice of pizza from a local shop.
Walk across the ancient Roman Ponte Pietra for lovely river views.
For the best panoramic photo of Verona, head up to Piazzale Castel San Pietro (take the funicular for a small fee or walk up).
Afterwards, stroll to Castelvecchio and walk onto its impressive Ponte Scaligero (bridge).
Consider enjoying an aperitivo (drink with snacks) like the locals. For dinner, find a cozy trattoria on a side street for better value.
Reaching Verona is very straightforward. The city sits right between Milan and Venice. This makes it a perfect stop on your Italian itinerary.
The main station is Verona Porta Nuova. You can catch a high-speed train here easily. It takes just over an hour from Milan. The trip from Venice is even shorter, at about one hour. Once you arrive at the station, you can catch a bus or grab a taxi to the center. You can even walk to the Arena in about 20 minutes if you pack light.
You can fly directly into Verona Villafranca Airport (Valerio Catullo). It is quite close to the city.
For the smoothest arrival, we recommend booking an airport transfer with TravelThru. Your driver will meet you right at the arrivals hall. You can skip the taxi lines and forget about navigating bus schedules with your luggage. Your driver will drive you straight to your hotel door in comfort.
If you prefer public transport, a shuttle bus runs between the airport and the train station. It is a cheaper option, but remember it drops you off a bit outside the main historic center.
Driving is also an option. Verona is right off the A4 motorway. Just remember one thing. The historic center is a restricted traffic zone (ZTL). Do not drive into the old town unless you want a fine. Park your car in one of the garages outside the walls and walk in.
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Verona's unique blend of ancient history, romantic charm, and vibrant Italian life truly makes it a special destination. We hope this guide has sparked your excitement and helped you map out an incredible visit. Now, go create unforgettable memories as you discover all the amazing things to do in Verona, Italy!