Visit Verona Italy

Visit Verona Italy and experience one of the most underrated destinations in all of Europe. It’s located in northern Italy in the Veneto region.

Residing along the Adige River, this medieval city has a lot of charm and romance. A 14th-century home is known as the setting of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”.

Visit Verona Italy

Visit Verona Italy and Learn a Bit of the History of Verona

Its early history and its name’s origin are unclear, but it is thought to date back to around 550 BC. It became an important center for trade and commerce because it is located at the intersection of several roads.

In the late 5th century Verona became the home of the Kings of Italy who were the ruler of Italy after the fall of the Western Roman Empire. There were several wars over the years fighting for the throne.

In the 17th century, there were numerous outbreaks of plague

In 1797 the city was occupied by Napoleon. That occupation did not last long as the citizens revolted and drove out the French on Easter Monday.

In 1798 the Austrians took control of Verona. After the Third Italian War of Independence, in 1866 Verona became a part of unified Italy.

During World War II Verona was part of the Italian Social Republic. Allied troops and partisans liberated the country on April 26, 1945.

Italy joined NATO after the war. Being close to the Iron Curtain, Verona regained its strategic importance. It had a strong military presence during the Cold War and became the seat of SETAF (South European Allied Terrestrial Forces).

Visit Verona Italy and immerse yourself in the history of this area.

Visit Verona Italy and learn some Interesting Facts

  • Concerts and operas take place in the 1st-century amphitheater, Verona Arena, which is the third-largest amphitheater in Italy
  • The population of Verona is approximately 257,000
  • World-class restaurants and shops rival those in Rome
  • Its artistic heritage and annual shows and fairs make it a most desirable destination
  • Shakespeare’s “The Two Gentleman of Verona” and “Romeo and Juliet” are set in Verona
  • Because of its architecture and urban structure in 2000, Verona was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO
  • The 2026 Winter Olympics closing ceremonies will be hosted in Verona
  • The area has a humid subtropical climate
  • The local government was reorganized in 1993 and is now governed by the City Council of Verona
  • The Roman military settlement is in the center of the city
  • The city has two (2) professional soccer teams and teams for volleyball, rugby, and basketball. The town also hosts an annual cycling race and has hosted the baseball World Cup in 2009.
  • Bus and railway transit is available and the Verona Airport is about 6.2 miles (10 km) southwest of the city

Things to Do in Verona Italy

  • Walk the City — take a history walking tour or check out the city alone. Three major Roman roads intersect here, making Verona a strategic location over the years. The city is pedestrian-friendly and has many intriguing alleyways with bars and cafes. Via Mazzini is the main shopping street of the city.
  • Best Views of the City — walk up to the Castle San Pietro for some fantastic views of towers, bridges, and the river. This location has ideal viewing early in the early morning and around sunset.
  • Roman Architecture — there are Roman ruins throughout the city.
  • The Piazzas of Verona — rather than the busy and noisy piazzas in other cities, the main piazzas in Verona are serene and quiet. This is where the locals hang out. The Piazza Bra is the largest square in the city and is located right outside the Verona Arena. There are several cafes and restaurants as well as the city hall and the Gran Guardia Palace. The Piazza delle Erbe is in the heart of the city and was used as a Roman public forum in the 1st century BC. It is now a market square for fresh produce and goods. Piazza Dei Signori is known for Dante being given haven here where he was able to create his further works. There is a statue of Dante in the middle of the square.
  • The Cuisine — the food is excellent with many fantastic restaurants. Osteria Ponte Pietra Ristorante has been around for over 100 years and overlooks Ponte Pietra, the Roman arch bridge. Locanda Ai Portici has great food and a gorgeous setting. For a nice sidewalk cafe, there is Enoteca Cangrande. Some of the favorite dishes are Risotto all’Amarone, Pastissada de caval, Risotto all’Amarone, and Meat with pearà.
  • Rafting the River Adigethis is a two (2) hour rafting trip traveling down the river throughout the city. There is some soft white water along the way.
  • The Bridges of Verona — the Adige River is the second longest river in Italy running from the Swiss/Austrian border to the Adriatic Sea. Ancient bridges connect the peninsula with the other areas. The Castelvecchio Bridge was constructed in the 14th century. The oldest bridge in Verona, The Ponte Pietra, was built by the Romans in 100 AD.
  • Wine Tasting with a View — get some great views of the area while tasting local wines at the Corte San Mattia Wine Experience. There are also food and wine tours available.
  • The Amarone Chateau — take a guided tour of this estate where Amarone, that legendary wine, was born. Explore the frescoed rooms within the villa, check out the poet’s park, and stroll amongst the vines of the historic “brolo.”
  • Museo di Castelvecchio — this 14th-century castle has a fine art gallery with historical artwork and artifacts focusing on religious art and weaponry. This medieval fortress provides panoramic views of the area.
  • Giardino Giusti — this tranquil garden has manicured lawns, a wooded area, walking paths, and a historic tower providing panoramic views of the area. Constructed in the 16th century as Renaissance-style gardens.
  • Basilica di Santa Anastasia — around 1290, the order of the Dominicans settled here and constructed this Gothic basilica, dedicated to the martyr St. Peter, a Dominican who originated from Verona and was patron of the city alongside St. Zeno.
  • Verona Arena — built in 30 AD it is the best preserved and third largest amphitheater in the country. The first opera was performed here in 1913. Concerts and operas take place here during the year. The seating area has 44 levels and has a capacity of 22,000.
  • Castelvecchio Museum — housed in a 14th-century medieval castle the building was renovated in the mid-20th century and now has ancient artifacts, paintings, jewelry, and sculptures from the Medieval, Renaissance, and Modern art periods. The Castelvecchio Bridge or Scaliger Bridge is a pedestrian bridge reconstructed from the original bridge destroyed during World War II.
  • Torre dei Lamberti — constructed in the 12th century this tower is the tallest building in Verona and provides excellent views.
  • Juliet’s House — also called Casa di Giulietta, Shakespeare found inspiration in the house and from the family living there. The Dal Cappello family (Capuleti family) lived there in the medieval ages. It is a tower house built in the 13th century. The famous balcony was added in the last century, and there is a statue of Juliet in the courtyard.
  • Roman Theater — built in the 1st century BC, it is still used as a theater today. There is a museum here with many historical artifacts.
  • GAM Achille Forti Modern Art Gallery — there are 1600 pieces of Italian modern art here including including realism, surrealism, and expressionism from the 19th century to the present.
  • The ancient walls of Verona — there are three sets of city walls in Verona which were each built by different cultures over time. Initially, the Roman walls were built, then the walls of the Comune, and finally the Scaliger walls.
  • Basilica di Santa Anastasia — constructed in the 13th century this Gothic church is the largest and most important church in Verona because of the grandeur of its decor.
  • Basilica di San Zeno — built in the 5th century the ceiling has delicate wooden paneling and unique details. It has a massive crypt where the remains of Saint Zeno lie, and it is also where the marriage of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet took place.
  • Ponte Pietra — experience wonderful views of the city as you cross this Roman arch bridge built in 100 BC.
  • Piazzale Castel San Pietro — this castle on the top of the hill provides excellent views of the city. It is an Austrian fortress built in the 19th century.

Why Visit Verona Italy?

Visit Verona Italy

There are several reasons to visit Verona Italy. This town is much more than Romeo and Juliet’s house. It is a gorgeous and immaculate city with much to see and do.

From Dante to the Veronese families there is much history and culture in this UNESCO World Heritage Site city to explore. Plenty of sports are available, especially for soccer fans.

As far as accommodations are concerned there are numerous places to stay in Verona to fit any budget.

Right on the edge of town is the Palazzo Victoria Hotel. This 5-star traditional hotel was built on old Roman ruins and has several windows where you can see the ruins. Some medieval walls are still preserved as well. It has gorgeous modern rooms, rooftop views, as well as a spa, gym, and outdoor bar and club.

In the heart of Old Town, you will find the Hotel Academia. This boutique hotel has a gym and offers a buffet breakfast.

For the more budget-conscious, Casa Esvael is a charming bed-and-breakfast with a rustic Italian atmosphere located about a 5-minute walk from the center of town.

Visit Verona Italy in the spring or fall when there are fewer tourists and the weather is mild with better rates on accommodations and flights. Additionally, Christmas is a great time to visit with the city all lit up. Verona has one of the best Christmas markets in all of northern Italy.

Consider putting Verona on your destination list.

Happy travels,

Joseph William

P.S. Travel and Earn with an Online Business that is both Enjoyable and Fun. CLICK HERE for All of the Details.

Visit Verona Italy

8 thoughts on “Visit Verona Italy”

  1. Verona has been on my travel wish list because of its history and connection to Shakespeare. The way you described the city’s buildings and romantic vibe makes it sound amazing.

    What are your favorite less crowded spots in Verona? I like finding places that aren’t super busy but still interesting. Furthermore, did you try any local foods or restaurants that you’d recommend?

    Thanks for sharing this guide! It’s made me really excited to plan a trip to Verona soon.

    Reply
    • Thanks, Bob. This is a great destination. Wherever I go I gather in the places where the locals hand out so I can get a first-hand view of what’s going on, as well as practice the language and immerse myself in the culture. All the Best, Joseph

      Reply
  2. After reading this very delightful article, I feel like I have been virtually visiting this city. It sounds wonderful and you give great insight on the delights and ambiance of Verona. You give great details on restaurants and hotels as well as food choices. I really enjoyed the pictures also. Thank you for this interesting article. Best of luck here at WA!

    Reply
  3. This is such a lovey aricle, about Verona. Italy is one of the countries I’d like to visit, and is well up there on top of the list. After reading the thorough and well written break-down of everything Verona has to offer, makes it even more tempting location to visit and tour the city!
    This article would be worth saving and printing out to have as a super guide and recommendations once one sets foot upon the urban streets of Verona!
    The only con, is not knowing the language, but probably everyone there speaks English?
    Thanks for highlighting this beautiful city, and do keep up this good work for those who are looking for interesting locations to visit!
    Julia.😊

    Reply
  4. Hi Joseph,

    I love this article, and your other articles on Italy.

    Looking through the pics on your article, the coliseum picture looks very similar to the one that Pink Floyd played in during the recording of their video “Live in Pompeii” in the 70s :). Not sure if you’re a Pink Floyd fan 🙂

    I have been to Italy in the past but not visited Verona…yet. So I am definitely going to add it to my bucket list.

    Keep up the amazing work my friend.

    All the best,

    Tom

    Reply
    • Thanks, Tom. Much appreciated. Love Pink Floyd. In fact, back in December my company partnered with a few non-profits to raise money for Teen Mental Health and suicide prevention and we sponsored a guitar challenge and Scott Page of Pink Floyd was one of the judges. In fact, a young woman from the UK won the content. All the best, Joseph

      Reply

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