Things to Do in Verona
Despite being a small city in Italy, Verona boasts rich art, culture, and architecture from the Roman era in addition to offering some amazing things to do in Verona. Situated on the bank of River Adige at the foothills of the Lessini Mountains, Verona is a city straight out of a storybook with beautiful monuments, bridges and historic churches. When in Verona, you are bound to visit the symbolic places related to William Shakespeare's romantic play Romeo & Juliet. If you are shopaholic, you must keep exploring the beautiful city markets on your list of things to do in Verona.
One of the most entertaining things to do in Verona is to attend opera at Verona Arena and watch famous plays like Aida, Tosca, Camen and more. History buffs can go on a walking tour and marvel at spectacular architecture from Romanesque times. You can also visit Verona Arena, the Verona Cathedral, Ponte di Castelvecchio, Arco dei Gavi, and Scaliger Tombs to see the triumph of Roman engineering. Touring Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore and Casa di Giulietta will let you get closer to Romeo and Juliet's love story in the background of Verona. Exploring the busy squares like Piazza Bra and Loggia del Consiglio is one of the best things to do in Verona when it comes to experiencing the local lifestyle, food and beverages.
A fortified square atop the Colle San Pietro hill is home to ancient ruins and is famous for its 19th-century castle. It is an excellent place to learn about the region's rich history and be amazed by neo-Romanesque architectural marvels. The views of the city, the Roman Bridge, and the River Adige can make you fall in love with the location
The Basilica di San Zeno, an 11th-century church, is one of the most well-known places to visit in Verona because of its religious significance and stunning Romanesque architecture. It houses the relics of Saint Zeno and is famed for being the site of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet marriage. This church is a must-see for everyone interested in history, architecture, and Shakespeare.
Arco dei Gavi is a triumphal arch made of white stones, initially built on the Via Postumia in the first century. Its design and art make it one of the unique and rare things to see in Verona in Roman architecture history. Visit this monument to admire its ornate details and stunning design, which makes it eye-striking from all sides.
Tomba di Giulietta is one of the most popular historic Verona places to visit for couples and Shakespeare fans. It is the former convent of San Francesco al Corso where an empty red sarcophagus, considered to be Juliet's Tomb, was installed in 1937. Visitors today leave love letters here to express their feelings of love or pain
One of the most visited Verona attractions, the Arena is a magnificent structure of significant European archaeological interest. Built in the first century AD and with a capacity of up to 30,000 people, it is one of the world's oldest, largest, and best-preserved Roman amphitheaters. It now hosts a wide range of theatrical and musical performances, including well-known operas that draw fans worldwide.
One of the biggest piazzas in Europe, the Piazza Bra in the heart of Verona, welcomes you to the city center with a buzzing atmosphere. This beautiful square is surrounded by numerous cafes, and restaurants, as well as ancient and modern structures. Home to one of the world's largest Roman amphitheaters, it offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and draws tourists from all over the world.
The Piazza delle Erbe, the beating center of Verona, is surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful buildings, monuments, and a buzzing atmosphere. It is constantly crowded because of the numerous eateries with outside seating and market stalls selling fruit, vegetables, and, most importantly, souvenirs. The Piazza is amongst the best Verona places to visit to experience the city's culture and history.
The Ponte Pietra or the Stone Bridge is a Roman arch bridge spanning the Adige River amidst one of the most panoramic places to visit in Verona. It is thought to date back to 100 BC, making it Verona's oldest bridge. The bridge is a symbol of Verona's history and draws visitors to admire its architecture and panoramic views of the city.
Piazza dei Signori is amongst the most popular places to visit in Verona for being home to numerous historical buildings and a lively ambience. Stroll through the plaza and admire Loggia del Consiglio, the Case della Pieta, and Palazzo del Capitano. It is also a great place to hang out with friends or loved ones, unwind at any cafe or restaurant, or enjoy a musical performance.
Ponte Della Vittoria is an impressive bridge over the Adige River known for its architecture and surroundings. It was named the Bridge of Victory after the battle of Vittorio Veneto that led to the triumph over the Austro-Hungarian Empire in WWI. It is amongst the most famous Verona places to visit to enjoy the views of the city and the setting sun.
The Porta Palio, a colossal entryway to the city, is a historic landmark built between 1550 and 1561 and one of the most stunning things to see in Verona. The Doric architectural style portrays strength, while the classical decorative and structural components represent the majesty of the Roman Empire, making it one of the most outstanding examples of architecture and theme.
The Scaliger Tombs are a collection of mausoleums constructed in the Gothic style, the majority of which are shaped like miniature temples and are covered by baldachins. These five tombs were built for the Scaliger family, a Veronese dynasty that reigned from the 13th to the 14th century. The tombs rank among the top Verona places to visit for admiring the magnificent Gothic art
Castelvecchio Museum housed in an ancient castle features a vast collection of mediaeval, renaissance, and modern artworks. The castle itself is a 14-century architectural marvel and provides a stunning setting for artworks ranging from Roman sculptures and artefacts as well as early Christian collections. A visit to this museum is a must for anyone who enjoys history and art.
The Loggia del Consiglio (or Loggia di Fra Giocondo) is one of the most stunning examples of fifteenth-century Veronese Renaissance architecture. It is a wonderful palace in Piazza dei Signori that is incredibly rich in pictorial decorations and base relief sculptures. You must visit this architectural wonder to admire the magnificent frescoes, arched windows, and stunning facade
The Porta Vescovo is a grand gate between the mediaeval city walls of Borgo Venezia and Veronetta. The gate was designed and built in 1520 and was given the name Vescovo since it originally collected a gabelle for the bishop. It features the architectural elements of the Renaissance, Venetians, and Austrians, making it one of the most stunning landmarks in Verona
The Verona Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. This massive complex located on Duomo Square includes San Giovanni in Fonte, Santa Elena, the Canons' cloister, the Capitular library, and the square. It is a very rich architectural ensemble that draws everyone's attention for its paleochristian, mediaeval, Romanesque, and Gothic architectural characteristics.
The Bastione delle Maddalene, which was constructed as part of Verona's mediaeval city wall in 1527, is a fantastic location to explore military architecture and learn about its history. It was built by the Most Serene Republic of Venice during the defensive reconstruction. The vast monumental legacy of Veronese military architecture is now being shared in this extensively restored and renovated space and its museum
The Ponte Scaliger or Castelvecchio Bridge connects the late-mediaeval castle in Verona to the left bank of the Adige. Historians regard it as the most beautiful mediaeval arched bridge of all times; it is amongst the most impressive things to see in Verona. Taking in the magnificent views of the castle and city while enjoying a leisurely stroll will leave you with lifelong memories.
Founded in 1046 to be a monastery for the Benedictines, the Chiesa di San Giorgio in Braida is a beautiful illustration of renaissance-style architecture with some exquisite Baroque elements. The grand Sanmicheli’s dome adds to its aesthetic appeal while beautiful paintings and sculptures adorn the interiors. The church is a great place to experience spirituality and serenity and admire the architectural beauty.
