A Guide to Verona: Top Things To Do and Day Trips

Verona is a city in northern Italy that is famous for its artistic and cultural heritage. It is also the setting of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, which attracts many visitors who want to see the balcony where the star-crossed lovers declared their love. But Verona has much more to offer than just a romantic story. 

Here are some things to do in Verona that will make your trip unforgettable.

• Visit the Arena di Verona - This ancient Roman amphitheatre is one of the most iconic landmarks of Verona. It was built in the 1st century AD and is still used today for concerts, operas and other cultural events.

• Explore Piazza delle Erbe - This is the main square in Verona, lined with cafes, restaurants and markets. It is a great place to soak up the atmosphere of the city and people watch.

• Tour Juliet's House - This 14th-century house is believed to be the Capulet family home from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Visitors can see the balcony where Juliet supposedly stood and declared her love for Romeo.

• Walk around Castelvecchio - This medieval castle dates back to the 14th century and now houses an art museum. It is surrounded by a lovely park and offers great views of the city.

• Cross Ponte Scaligero - This bridge is one of the most picturesque spots in Verona. It was built in the 14th century and spans the River Adige.

• Visit the Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore - This beautiful church was built in the 12th century and is dedicated to Verona's patron saint. It features stunning frescoes and a beautiful cloister.

• Take a wine tour - The surrounding region of Verona is known for its excellent wines, including Amarone and Valpolicella. Visitors can take guided tours of local vineyards and taste some of the best wines in the world.

• Climb Torre dei Lamberti - This tower offers stunning views of Verona and the surrounding countryside. It dates back to the 12th century and is over 80 meters tall.

• Explore Giardino Giusti - This beautiful Renaissance garden is located near the city center and features intricate fountains, statues and a maze.

• Relax by Lake Garda - Just a short drive from Verona, Lake Garda is one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy. Visitors can relax on the beach, take a boat tour or try some water sports.

Verona is a city that truly has something for everyone. Whether you're interested in history, art, food or wine, you're sure to find plenty of things to do and see in this charming Italian city.

Day trips from Verona

• Lake Garda - This stunning lake is just a short drive from Verona and offers a range of activities such as boat tours, swimming, hiking, cycling, and wine tasting.

• Venice - Just an hour's train ride from Verona, Venice is one of the most popular day trips from Verona. It's known for its canals, bridges, and historic architecture.

• Padua - This charming city is located just 40 minutes by train from Verona and is famous for its beautiful frescoes, botanical gardens, and ancient university.

• Vicenza - Known for its stunning Renaissance architecture designed by Andrea Palladio, this city is just a 45-minute train ride from Verona.

• Dolomites - A two-hour drive from Verona, the Dolomite Mountains offer breathtaking views, hiking trails, and winter sports.

• Soave - This picturesque medieval village is just a short drive from Verona, and it's known for its production of white wines and its impressive castle.

• Mantova - Located just over an hour by train from Verona, Mantova is known for its stunning Palazzo Ducale, which was once home to the Gonzaga family.

• Trento - Surrounded by mountains, this historic town is just an hour and a half by train from Verona and is known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful piazzas.

• Bologna - Famous for its cuisine, Bologna is just over an hour and a half away by train from Verona and is known for its vibrant food markets, medieval architecture, and ancient towers.

Whether you're interested in nature, history, or culture, there is something for everyone on a day trip from Verona.

FAQs:

• What is the best time of year to visit Verona?
  

Verona is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from late spring to early fall when the weather is warm and there are many festivals and events.

• How do I get around Verona?
  

Verona is a relatively small city that can be easily explored on foot. However, there are also buses, taxis, and bikes available for rent.

• Is Verona expensive?
  

Verona is more affordable than other cities in Italy such as Rome or Florence, but it can still be pricey during peak tourist season. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly options available such as street food and free attractions.

• Is it necessary to book tickets in advance for attractions in Verona?
  

It's always a good idea to book tickets in advance for popular attractions such as the Arena di Verona or Juliet's House to avoid long lines and ensure availability.

• How far is Verona from Venice?
  

Verona is located just one hour by train from Venice, making it an easy day trip destination.

• Can I visit Lake Garda on a day trip from Verona?
  

Yes, Lake Garda is just a short drive from Verona and makes for a great day trip with plenty of activities to enjoy.

• Is English widely spoken in Verona?
  

While Italian is the official language in Verona, English is spoken widely in tourist areas and most people working in the hospitality industry speak at least basic English.

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