Verona

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Verona

Verona, the City of Love, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Located in the Veneto region of Italy, Verona is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and picturesque surroundings. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the city’s top attractions, provide tips on where to eat, stay, and explore, and give you insider knowledge on how to make the most of your trip.

Places to Visit

  1. Arena di Verona: This ancient Roman amphitheater is one of Italy’s most famous landmarks. Catch a live opera performance during the summer months or take a guided tour to learn about its history.
  2. Piazza delle Erbe: The city’s main square is filled with beautiful buildings, lively cafes, and bustling markets. Grab a coffee at Caffè Scalini and people-watch to your heart’s content.
  3. Castelvecchio: This medieval castle was once the residence of the Scaliger family and now serves as a museum showcasing Verona’s rich history.
  4. San Zeno Maggiore: Visit this stunning church, one of the city’s oldest and most beautiful, featuring a stunning Byzantine-style interior.
  5. Lake Garda: Take a day trip to Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, and enjoy water sports, boat tours, or simply relax on the beach.

Activities

  1. Wine Tasting: Verona is famous for its wine production. Visit a local vineyard like Tenuta Fattori or Cantina di Soave for a wine tasting experience.
  2. Gondola Ride: Take a romantic gondola ride through the city’s canals and admire the beautiful architecture from a different perspective.
  3. Hiking: Explore Verona’s picturesque surroundings by hiking to the top of Monte Lessini, offering breathtaking views of the city and lake.
  4. Cooking Class: Learn how to make traditional Italian dishes like pasta and pizza at a local cooking class.
  5. Hot Air Balloon Ride: Experience the thrill of flying above the city in a hot air balloon for an unforgettable perspective.

Where to Eat

  1. Al Covo: This cozy restaurant serves authentic Italian cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
  2. Trattoria al Pomodoro: Enjoy traditional Veronese dishes like risotto all’amarone and pollo alla cacciatora in a lively atmosphere.
  3. Enoteca del Doge: Treat yourself to a wine tasting experience at this charming enoteca, featuring an impressive selection of wines from around Italy.
  4. Gelateria della Vittoria: Indulge in delicious gelato made with natural ingredients and unique flavors.
  5. Caffè Scalini: Start your day with a cappuccino and pastry at this bustling cafe in Piazza delle Erbe.

Where to Stay

  1. Hotel Accademia Verona: This 4-star hotel offers comfortable rooms, a relaxing courtyard, and a convenient location.
  2. Residence Casa di Pietra: Experience the authentic Italian feel of this boutique residence, featuring cozy apartments and a private garden.
  3. Bed & Breakfast Cà del Moro: Enjoy warm hospitality and delicious breakfasts at this charming B&B in a quiet neighborhood.
  4. Hostel Verona: Connect with fellow travelers at this social hostel, offering dorm rooms and private accommodations.
  5. Vacation Rentals: Rent an apartment or villa through websites like Airbnb or Booking.com for a home away from home experience.

Things to Know

  1. Language: Italian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  2. Currency: The Euro is the local currency.
  3. Weather: Verona has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters.
  4. Tips: Leave a small tip for good service at restaurants and bars.
  5. Buses: Take bus number 11 or 12 from the train station to reach the city center.

Transportation

  1. Train Station: Verona’s main train station is easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transportation.
  2. Airport: The closest airport is in nearby Brescia (VBS).
  3. Taxi: Take a taxi from the train station or airport to your accommodation.
  4. Public Transportation: Use buses and trams to explore the city and surrounding areas.
  5. Walking: Verona is a compact city, making walking an ideal way to discover its charms.

Tips and Tricks

  1. Buy a Verona Card: Get free entry to museums and attractions with this card, which also includes public transportation.
  2. Reserve Tickets: Book tickets in advance for popular attractions like the Arena di Verona.
  3. Be Mindful of Pickpocketing: Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
  4. Explore Hidden Gems: Venture beyond the city center to discover charming neighborhoods and local secrets.
  5. Learn Some Italian: Show respect for the local culture by learning basic phrases like “grazie” (thank you) and “per favore” (please).

Insider Knowledge

  1. Verona is a City of Love: Visit the famous Casa di Giulietta, Juliet’s balcony, where Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet fell in love.
  2. Verona has a Rich History: Learn about the city’s medieval past at the Castelvecchio museum or explore the historic streets of Piazza delle Erbe.
  3. Verona is surrounded by Wine Country: Visit local vineyards and taste some of Italy’s finest wines.
  4. Verona hosts World-Famous Events: Attend a live opera performance at the Arena di Verona during the summer months.

Additional Information

  1. Emergency Services: Call 112 for emergency assistance or visit your nearest police station (questura).
  2. Tourist Information Office: Visit the local tourist information office for advice on exploring the city.
  3. Currency Exchange: Change your money at a currency exchange office or withdraw cash from an ATM.
  4. Tipping Culture: Leave small tips for good service, especially in restaurants and bars.

Conclusion

Verona is a must-visit destination for any traveler. From its stunning architecture to its rich history and natural surroundings, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful Italian city. Follow our guide to discover the best of Verona, from top attractions to hidden gems, and make unforgettable memories in this City of Love.