Things to Do in Verona

Made famous as the setting of William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, Verona boasts a long history that eclipses thestar-crossed lovers' tale. Once a Roman colony in the first century BC, the city is packed with well-preserved Classicalstructures and architecture that have earned it the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be drawn in by the Verona Arena, a Romanamphitheater that still hosts performances today, and stay for the delicious cuisine and wine that can be found on every citystreet. Romantics are sure to be enchanted by the House of Juliet and the gently rolling hills of the wine country that sits justoutside Verona. Fill your itinerary with historic sights to see and charming things to do while taking in the age-old and artisticatmosphere of fair Verona.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Verona

Verona is the third largest municipality in northeast Italy, situated around the curving banks of the Adige River. Along withthe many historic attractions within the city itself, the picturesque landscapes that surround Verona are worth exploring.

Historic Verona - The historic district of Verona, home to its most famous Roman remains, is nestled in thebend of the Adige and was originally enclosed by Roman city walls. The district is centered around the Piazza Bra, the largestpiazza in the city. Visit the Roman amphitheater of Verona Arena, the Castelvecchio castle, Piazza delle Erbe, and the magnificentVerona Cathedral (Duomo di Verona).

Lake Garda - Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy, and its natural beauty makes it one of the most popularholiday destinations in the country. Hiking and walking paths wind through the emerald-covered mountains that border the lake, showing off the lovely landscapes of Verona's countryside and the charming towns on Garda's shores.

Valpolicella - Valpolicella, the viticultural zone (wine country) of Verona, is famous for its wine production.The area's vintages are typically made from the Corvina Veronese, Rondinella, and Molinara grape varieties, but Valpolicella isalso known for its recioto dessert wine and strong Amarone. Explore the region and its historic vineyards on foot or aboard a Vespafor a quintessential Italian experience.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Verona is packed with historic sights dating as far back as the Roman Empire. The VeronaArena, the third largest Roman amphitheater in Italy, was built in the 1st century and is still used to host large-scale operas andconcerts. Stroll through the Piazza delle Erbe, the town’s main forum during the Roman Empire, which is now lined by the frescoedMazzanti Houses and dotted with elaborate statues and fountains. Venture into Verona's religious history with visits to theVerona Cathedral and the Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore, also known as the Romeo and Juliet Church.

Verona lives up to its romantic reputation, and visitors can see many of the real-life sites used in Shakespeare's Romeo andJuliet. You can visit the House of Juliet, or Casa di Giulietta, which was once occupied by the Capuleti family and dates back tothe 13th century. The house's courtyard features the famous balcony where Juliet was called to by Romeo, as well as a statue ofJuliet that's said to bring good luck to couples. The Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore, a Romanesque church that was rebuilt afteran earthquake in 1117, is also known as the "Romeo and Juliet Church," as the play's wedding is said to have occurredin the basilica's crypt. Fall in love with the food and wine of Verona, as the city is known for its mouthwatering cheeses andrich meats as well as robust and fruity wines that pair perfectly with any meal. You can also indulge like a local with a spritz, awine-based cocktail popular in Verona. For a taste of Verona's thriving artistic culture, attend the Arena di Verona Festival,a summer celebration of opera where huge performances are staged in the famous Verona Arena. Verona is also close enough for easyday trips to Milan, Venice, or Lake Garda, making it a convenient and relaxing place to stay.

Things to Do in Verona with Kids

There are plenty of unforgettable experiences in Verona that the entire gang will enjoy. These are a few of the most popular family friendly experiences in the area.

• Discover the Beauty of Verona in one day
• "In Fair Verona", guided tour with local licensed tourist guide
• Arena di Verona: monolingual guided tour for Veronacard owners.
• Summer 2.0

Sightseeing on a lean budget in Verona? Spend time instead of money on great experiences.

Operaforte - This is an ideal place to get your culture fix and gain an insight into the local arts scene.

University of Verona - This well-known landmark is an unique backdrop for that vacation profile pic.

Verona City Hall - Feel like you've traveled back in time while discovering the secrets of this historic site.

Piazza Bra - This bustling location is a popular rendezvous point for both locals and visitors.

Biblioteca Civica - Dig out your guidebook and learn why this place is worth adding to your must-see list.

S. Pietro Incarnario - Enjoy a little quiet contemplation and discover a thing or two about this site's spiritual significance.

Giardini Pubblici Arsenale - Revitalize your mind and soul by spending a little time with Mother Nature.