Things to Do in Verona – The City of Love

Verona is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Northern Italy. The city fascinates its visitors with its culture and history. Verona offers its guests a romantic atmosphere known as the city of Romeo and Juliet. So people call this city the city of love. Especially many people visit here on Valentine’s day. In this travel blog, I will tell you about the beautiful places to visit and the best things to do in Verona.

Things to do in Verona Italy – Watching the sunset

You will like the amazing historical, cultural, and architectural richness of the city. Verona, whose historical city center is on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List, is home to many monuments from the Roman period that were not used in the Middle Ages. The city, which was destroyed by the great earthquake in 1117, was rebuilt according to Romanesque architecture after this earthquake. Verona has managed to preserve its texture, which was built after the earthquake, until today.

Things to Do in Verona

It is located in the middle of Verona, Milan, and Venice. The city, which is divided into two by the Adige River, Italy’s second largest river, was founded by the Etruscans. The city was once one of the most important political and commercial centers of the Roman Empire.

Verona is also home to the world’s most famous love tragedy. It is known as the city where Romeo and Juliet, the children of the Capulet and Montegue families, lived their immortal love that ended in death. Verona streets, adorned with wide city squares and monumental buildings, invite visitors to travel in time.

Things to do in Verona, Italy – Tourist Spots

Places to Visit in Verona

Verona generously offers everything you expect from an Italian city with its streets that make you feel as if you have gone back 600 years, its appetizing delicacies, and its detailed architecture, each of which looks like a work of art. Compared to other cities, there is more and no less! And also there is a lot of romance and a fairy-tale atmosphere here like in Paris.

Since it is a small city, it is easy and enjoyable to visit. The city has two centers, as the Adige river divides Verona in two. There is no subway or tram, so you will see plenty of bicycles. Prepare yourself for walking, because walking is the best way to discover Verona. Comfortable shoes should be a priority among the items to be put in the suitcase. So what are the best places to visit in Verona and what to do?

1- Piazza delle Erbe

Piazza delle Erbe is built on the site of what was once the Roman forum. It hosts the most architecturally magnificent buildings of the city, trendy cafes and shops where various products are sold.

Piazza delle Erbe – Must-see places

Naturally, travelers who plan to travel to the city should include this square in the first place of their list of places to visit in Verona. One of the things to do in Piazza delle Erbe Verona is visiting the souvenir market, which is set up every day of the week except Sunday.

Among the buildings surrounding Piazza delle Erba, Palazzo Maffei on the north, Gardello Tower, Casa dei Mercanti, and the fountain named Madonna attract the most attention.

2- Duomo di Verona (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Matricolare)

Generously displaying all the beautiful aspects of Romanesque architecture to its guests, the Duomo di Verona was built in 1117 on the site of two Roman-era basilicas on the same site.

Duomo Di Verona (Cathedral) – Things to do in Italy

The cathedral was opened in 118. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. For this reason, it is more commonly known as Santa Maria Matricolare among the local people. The fact that the interior is full of works bearing the signatures of different masters makes the religious structure a place to be seen.

When you visit Verona Cathedral, you can also see the ruins of basilicas built by the Romans. When you go down to the basement of Saint Elena Church, you can examine the mosaic-covered floors of the ancient buildings.

3- Casa di Giulietta (Juliet’s House)

If you wonder how the fictional character created by Shakespeare turns an ordinary house into a tourist attraction in real life, you can visit Casa di Giullietta.

The house was originally built for the Cappello family. But when the townspeople noticed the similarity between the character’s surname and that of the family, they immediately declared it Juliet’s House.

Where is the Juliet’s House – Casa di Giulietta

With its Renaissance-style design, Juliet’s House is one of the first places that especially lovers visit in Verona. In fact, over time, it has become a tradition for couples to write down their feelings for each other on a piece of paper and then attach this paper to the wall of the house with the help of chewing gum.

Even now, those who do this are immediately fined. There is nothing in the house except the team that replied to these letters and the tools and equipment they use.

4- Castelvecchio

Castelvecchio is built between 1354 and 1376 by the Scaliger dynasty that ruled the city in the Middle Ages. It is now used as a museum where works of art from various periods are exhibited.

Paintings, coins, statues, and weapons produced in the period from the Middle Ages to the 18th century are featured in the 29 exhibition halls inside the mighty building. By the way Castelvecchio means “Old Castle” in the English language.

Best things to do in Verona – Castelvecchio

Castelvecchio draws attention not only with its valuable collections but also with its bridge built on the Adige River.

The arched structure is also known as the Scaliger Bridge. It is thought to have been built in the middle of the 14th century. With the completion of its construction, this structure has achieved the title of the bridge with the widest span in the world. So one of the best things to do in Veroni is to explore this beautiful bridge.

5- Arena di Verona

Arena di Verona is one of the largest amphitheaters in Italy. It was built by the Romans in the 30s. In ancient times, the arena hosted numerous Ludis (public games). It has a capacity of 30,000 people.

During the construction of the structure, unique white and pink limestone was used. So these stones were enriching the exterior architecture of the ancient theater. But they were dismantled in 1117 to be used in the construction of different buildings.

Visiting Arena di Verona – Best things to do in Verona

In Arena di Verona, concerts are organized by the philharmonic orchestra today. Also, the closing ceremonies of the 2026 Winter Olympics is planned here.

Alternatively, you can go to this impressive arena between 13 June and 5 September and watch the Verona Opera Festival on-site.

6- Piazza dei Signori

Surrounded by elegant Renaissance-style palaces, Piazza dei Signori is the second square that I would highly recommend adding to your list of the best things to do in Verona.

Palazzo degli Scaligeri is one of the structures around the open area. It was built in the 14th century. In the Loggia del Consiglio, which was built a century later, the city council carried out its activities. Also you should see the Dante Monument.

Piazza dei Signori Verona – Best things to do in the city – Nightlife

Of course, when it comes to this part of the city, we should not forget the Palazzo della Ragione, where brick and tuff stone were used in its construction.

Only a few of the magnificent buildings around Piazza dei Signori can be visited. For example you can visit the 12th-century Palazzo della Ragione. It has been hosting a modern art gallery since 2014.

7- Piazza Bra

In the middle of the 16th century, with the construction of the Palace of the Honors under the supervision of Michele Sammicheli, the area, which began to be described as a square, is surrounded by decent cafes and historical buildings.

Piazza Bra – Fun things to do in Verona

During your visit to Piazza Bra, you can spend most of your time visiting the Lapidary Museum. It is in front of the amphitheater. Then you can turn your route to Palazzo Barbieri in Neo-Classical style.

Do not leave here without seeing the Grand Guard, designed by Domenico Curtoni, and the Ottolini Palace, located at the intersection of Via Roma and the square.

8- Basilica di San Zeno

Basilica di San Zeno is one of the most beautiful and best-preserved examples of Romanesque architecture in Northern Italy. This beautiful structure was built between 967 and 1398.

The basilica owes its reputation to being the place where the marriage scene in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet takes place. Also, it has amazing architectural beauty. So one of the important things to do in Verone is to see this basilica.

Basilica di San Zeno – What to do in Verona

The large hall of San Zeno Basilica is supported by Corinthian-style columns. It has also bell towers built in different periods on both sides,

The altar by Francesco Torbido also deserves to be seen in this hall, where frescoes from the 13th century add splendor. The tomb of the saint, who gave the basilica its name, is located in the middle of the building. If you walk to the left you will see the monastery from the 9th century.

9- Roman Theater (Teatro Romano de Mérida)

If you go to the north of the historical city center, you can have the opportunity to visit the Roman Theater. The Roman Theater is one of the very important and historic places to visit in Verona. Because it was built in the first century BC.

Teatro Romano de Merida – How to get to Roman Teather

The ancient theater is built on a slope by the Adige River.  Even before the construction of the ancient theater was started, a solid wall was built in the section between Ponte di Pietra and Ponte Postumio in order to prevent floods that may occur in the river.

Most of the details of the Teatro Romano have been unearthed thanks to the excavations carried out since 1830. So you will find the opportunity to examine them today. For more, you can take the elevator right behind the theater and visit the Archaeological Museum.

10- Palazzo Giusti (Giardino Giusti)

Palazzo Giusti is waiting to be visited in the east of the city center. It is close to Piazza Isolo. Giardino Giusti was built in the 16th century.

The palace offers its guests works of art that smell of mastery and interior decoration items that arouse admiration. It gained a more magnificent appearance with the tower added in 1701,

Giardino Giusti – Tourist spots in Verona

Paintings and antiques belonging to the family that once owned the palace are exhibited in the eastern wing of the building. Floor decoration and frescoes also draw attention here.

The Italian Renaissance-style garden stands out as the main element that makes Palazzo Giusti a tourist attraction in Verona. The gardens have many cultural events throughout the year. It attracts not only travelers but also the world’s leading politicians, scientists, and rulers with their beauty,

11- Torre dei Lamberti

You can include Torre dei Lamberti in your list of places to visit in Verona to watch the city view.

The main task of the 84-meter-high watchtower was to warn the public in advance if there were enemy forces approaching the city. However, as the construction of the tower took longer than expected, it was decided to use it for different purposes.

Torre dei Lamberti

On the Torre dei Lamberti, next to Palazzo della Ragione, there are two bells named Marangona and Rengo. When a fire broke out in any part of the city, the public was warned with a small-sized Marangona.

The larger Rengo was used to announce city council meetings. It is said that the clock, which gives the building an aesthetic appearance, was added in 1779.

12- Via Mazzini

In addition to its historical and cultural background, Verona is a holiday destination that has gained the attention of shopping enthusiasts over the years.

Via Mazzini is the place where I would recommend those who want to explore the richness of the city in this regard. It is taking its name from the 19th-century politician and activist Giuseppe Mazzini. The street connects Bra and Erbe squares. It was known as Via Nuova until 1907. There are also many things to do in Via Mazzini Verona aside from shopping.

13- Scaliger Tombs (Arche Scaligere)

Scaliger Tombs consist of a series of burial grounds built in the name of the family that ruled Verona from the beginning of the 13th century to the end of the 14th century. the Scaliger Tombs are just close to the Church of Santa Maria Antica.

The tomb complex has a Gothic style. It is surrounded by steel fences bearing the symbol of the family. All of the 5 tombs in the area were built in the 14th century under the supervision of different architects.

Arche Scaligere (Tombs) – Things to do in Verona

The construction of oldest mausoleum you can see in the area was built in the name of the most famous member of the family, Cangrade I. Unlike the others, this tomb was designed to be integrated with the church. The tomb in the name of Mastino II draws attention with the details on the dome that covers it.

Of course, when it comes to looks, none of them can compare with the Cansignorio designed by Bonino da Campione. While Alberto II’s tomb consisted of an embroidered coffin, the tomb made for Giovanni was placed inside the church wall.

14- Castel San Pietro

Castel San Pietro is located very close to the Roman Theatre. It is a very historic place in Verona. It was first built in 1398 at the request of the Duke of Milan, Giangaleazzo Visconti. However, this structure, together with the church of the same name next to it, was destroyed by the Austrians in 1840.

The construction of castle-like barracks was rebuilt in 1851-1856, adhering to the design of Colonel Petrasch.

Castel San Pietro – Things to do in Verona

Travelers add San Pietro Castle to their list of places to visit in Verona for two reasons. The historical importance of the hill on which the Neo-Classical style castle stands is the first of these reasons.

The second reason is that no one wants to miss the pleasure of watching the scenery. To reach the area where the castle is located, you can use the funicular for a fee of 2 Euros. So you can make the journey much more enjoyable.

15- Lake Garda

If you enjoy exploring natural beauties, you can spare some of your time in Lake Garda during your Verona holiday. Lake Garde is a special lake in the country. Because it is the largest lake in Italy. It is located in the southwest of the city.

The lake was formed during the last ice age. It covers an area of ​​2350 square kilometers. There are many small settlements around the lake. So you can observe rural life here as well.

Lake Garda – Beautiful places to visit in Italy

You can travel to Garda daily from the city center by using various transportation methods. Alternatively, you can make a reservation at one of the hotels or resorts in the surrounding area and spend more time here.

Lake Garde offers beautiful views to its guests. And also its location is very close to the vineyards where you can taste quality wines. The atmosphere is peaceful and quiet here.

When you reach the lake, you can first visit the town of Sirmione. Thus, you can have the privilege of benefiting from thermal springs and tasting delicious dishes. So one of the must-see places in Verona is Lake Garda.

16- Santa Anastasia

The Basilica of Santa Anastasia was built in 1290 by the Dominicans during the Lombardy period. It is on the Roman road that once connected Porta Borsari to the Postumio Bridge.

Corso Santa Anastasia – Italy travel blog

The Gothic-style basilica continues to bear the name of its predecessor. The religious structure continued to be used by the Dominican order until 1808.

The exterior walls of Santa Anastasia are decorated with panels describing various religious events. In the interior, a much more magnificent view welcomes the guests. This section, in which red Verona marble is used, consists of three corridors separated by columns.

17- Arco dei Gavi

Another ancient gate that has become popular among travelers traveling to the city is Arco dei Gavi. The building was built by the Gavias, one of the leading families of Rome, in the 1st century. It is under protection as a monument.

Where is Trattoria Arco dei Gavi

The ancient gate is designed by Vitruvius Cerdo. It was first located at the beginning of Via Postumia. However, the French soldiers, who captured the city in 1805, dismantled the gate in order to widen the northeast entrance.

After 127 years of captivity, Arco dei Gavi was rebuilt in 1932 using original parts. During the rebuilding process, a wooden model from before the collapse of the door was used. Thus, the majestic appearance of the building in the Roman period was largely preserved.

18- Porta Borsari

Porta Borsari is thought to have been built by the Romans in the 1st century. It is located on Via Postumia. The ancient gate was called Porta Iovia for a long time because of its proximity to the small temple dedicated to Jupiter.

Porta Borsari – Beautiful places to visit in Verona

The wall with 12 windows on the upper part of the building, in which white limestone and Corinthian capital design were preferred, still preserves its integrity.

Borsari Gate owes its being one of the most important touristic areas of the city to the world-famous Romeo and Juliet story. According to Shakespeare’s story, the relationship of the lovers started quite close to here.

19- Via Cappello

Visiting Via Cappello is one of the best things to do in Verona. Because Juliet’s House is on this street. However, this street is also considered the heart of ancient Verona. So it continues to be a favorite of the locals with its shops and restaurants.

In short, you can pretend to be one of them and spend a day on this street and get invaluable information about the history of the city and daily life. Of course, you can also take advantage of the opportunity and evaluate the shopping opportunities.

Free things to do in Verona – Via Cappello

Leaving aside Juliet’s House, you can also visit Porta Leoni while you are on Via Cappello. Because it is also a very historical place.

People who come from Bologna to enter the city was passing this gate centuries ago. When you explore here, you can also observe some ruins around.

20- Ponte Pietra

Ponte Pietra is known as the oldest of Verona among its contemporaries. It was built in 100 BC in order for passengers to use the Via Postumia. Ponte Pietro connects Genoa and Aquileia to each other, to cross the Adige River in a safer way.

Right next to the bridge, there was another bridge called Pons Postumius. Both were heavily used by the locals to reach the Roman theater on the right side of the river.

Ponte Pietra – Things to do in Verona

The first comprehensive restoration work on the Pietra Bridge was carried out in 1298 at the request of Alberto I of the Scala family. The Nazis blew up the bridge in 1945. However, in 1959, the four arches of the bridge, which were damaged, were reassembled using original stones.

Where to Stay?

The most beautiful areas to stay in Verona are Historic Center, Porta Nuova, Borgo Trento, and Veronetta regions.

Based on independent reviews, this property is located in travelers’ favorite part of Verona. It is a great option to stay somewhere clean and affordable.

You can also check this link to look for accommodation in Verona and book your hotel online.

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