Verona is one of those cities that seem to have stepped straight out of a novel: romantic, elegant and steeped in history, with charming corners waiting around every bend. From the majestic Roman Arena to the medieval atmosphere of Piazza delle Erbe, from the sweeping views over the Adige River to the literary echoes of Romeo and Juliet, Verona enchants visitors with its harmonious blend of art, culture and timeless beauty. In this guide, we’ll explore what to see and do in Verona in a day, its unmissable attractions, and the curiosities that make the city of love truly unique.
Why visit Verona
The city of love and art
Verona is fascinating because of its dual identity. On one hand, there is the romantic Verona immortalised by Shakespeare, where the story of Romeo and Juliet comes to life among medieval alleys and quiet courtyards. On the other, there is monumental Verona, with its Renaissance squares, Scaligero palaces and bridges connecting the two banks of the Adige.
A stroll through the historic centre — now a UNESCO World Heritage Site — feels like traveling through two thousand years of history: Roman, medieval and Venetian. Verona is also a vibrant city, animated by cultural events, markets, concerts and theatre festivals, with every season offering a new reason to return.
What to see in Verona
The Verona Arena: the symbol of the city
Among the top sights to see in Verona, the Arena holds a place of honour. Built in the 1st century AD, it is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world. Today it still hosts the famous summer Opera Festival — a breathtaking experience that transforms the ancient arena into a stage under the stars.
By day, you can walk through its arches to admire the pink-tinged marble and its extraordinary acoustics; by night, you can let yourself be swept away by the emotion of an opera or concert beneath the open sky.
Piazza delle Erbe and the Lamberti Tower
The beating heart of the city, Piazza delle Erbe is where history and daily life meet. Once the Roman forum, today it is a lively, colourful square surrounded by frescoed buildings, medieval towers and historic cafés. At its centre stands the Madonna Verona Fountain and the bustling city market.
From here, climb the Lamberti Tower, which rises 84 metres above the square, offering extraordinary panoramic views over the entire city and the Adige River below.
Juliet’s House and the famous balcony
Among the most visited places in Italy, Juliet’s House is a must-see for anyone who loves romantic stories. In the inner courtyard, the famous balcony overlooking Via Cappello attracts thousands of visitors every day. According to legend, touching the bronze statue of Juliet brings good luck in love.
Inside the house, you’ll find period rooms, historical costumes and countless letters left by lovers from all over the world — a testament to the universal power of Shakespeare’s tale.
Castelvecchio and the Scaligero Bridge
Imposing and majestic, Castelvecchio is one of the great symbols of the Della Scala family’s power. Built in the 14th century, it now houses Verona’s Civic Museum, with works by Mantegna, Bellini and Pisanello.
Right beside it stands the Scaligero Bridge, offering some of the most poetic views of the Adige. Its crenellated walls and elegant arches make it one of the most romantic walking spots in the entire city.
The Cathedral and the San Zeno religious complex
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Matricolare, known as the Verona Duomo, blends Romanesque and Gothic styles in a beautifully harmonious ensemble. Its interiors hold important works of art, including a painting by Titian.
A short distance away lies the Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, with its warm tufa and marble façade — a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. According to tradition, this is where Romeo and Juliet were married, making it one of the city’s most evocative locations.
Giusti Garden and panoramic views of the city
On the eastern bank of the Adige, Giardino Giusti is a peaceful Renaissance haven. Its terraced layout, sculpted hedges and breathtaking views make it one of the most beautiful gardens in Italy.
From here, a brief walk leads to Castel San Pietro, from which you can enjoy one of the most spectacular sunsets in Verona — a panorama that stretches over rooftops, bridges and the winding course of the river.
What to see and to do in Verona in one day
What to see in Verona in one day: the eight most interesting places to visit plus two unmissable unusual destinations. Discover Italo’s mini-guide to Verona.
Curiosities about Verona
Shakespearean places and local legends
Verona’s international fame is inseparable from Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” Beyond Juliet’s House, the city is also home to other legendary sites, such as Juliet’s Tomb, located in the convent of San Francesco al Corso. Tradition claims that the young heroine was laid to rest here, making it a symbol of eternal love.
Events you shouldn’t miss: the Opera Festival and Christmas in Verona
Every summer, the Arena di Verona becomes the stage for the Opera Festival — one of the world’s most prestigious musical events. In winter, the city transforms into a magical setting with Christmas markets in Piazza dei Signori and the giant illuminated comet arching from the square into the Arena.
Moments like these turn Verona into a fairy-tale backdrop.
What to do in Verona
Taste the flavours of Veronese cuisine: pastissada de caval and risotto all’Amarone
Verona is also a city to experience through food. Among the local dishes worth trying are pastissada de caval, a slow-cooked horse-meat stew in red wine, and risotto all’Amarone, refined, velvety and rich in flavour.
Not to be missed are also the tortellini from Valeggio sul Mincio and pearà, a traditional pepper-and-breadcrumb sauce served with boiled meats.
Walk along the Adige or go shopping in Via Mazzini
After a day immersed in art and culture, nothing beats a relaxing stroll along the Adige, the river that embraces the city with its scenic bridges.
For shopping lovers, Via Mazzini is pure paradise: boutiques, perfumeries and historic shops line up in an elegant sequence of window displays.
What to do in Verona with children?
Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet, is not only a romantic destination for couples but also a delightful place to explore with kids.
What to see around Verona
Lake Garda: between villages, nature and relaxation
Less than an hour from Verona lies Lake Garda, a natural paradise framed by mountains and water. Towns like Peschiera, Lazise and Sirmione are enchanting places where you can wander among medieval castles, lakeside paths and thermal waters. The mild climate and outdoor activities make it perfect for a day trip — easily reachable by train.
Soave and its medieval fortress
East of Verona, the village of Soave is surrounded by perfectly preserved Scaligero walls. Its medieval fortress overlooks the valley and offers spectacular views of the vineyards where the renowned Soave DOC white wine is produced.
It’s an ideal destination for a day trip combining culture, history and wine tasting.
How to get to Verona
Verona is well connected to Italy’s major cities thanks to Italo high-speed trains, which arrive directly at Verona Porta Nuova — just a few minutes from the historic centre.
From the station, it’s easy to move around on foot or by public transport to reach the city’s main attractions.
Reaching Verona from major Italian cities
Travelling to Verona is incredibly convenient with Italo’s high-speed trains, which connect the city to some of Italy’s most important hubs, including Rome, Florence, Milan and Venice. These routes offer a smooth and efficient travel experience, allowing you to reach Verona quickly and comfortably, without the stress of traffic or long transfers. Thanks to frequent departures and modern onboard services, your journey becomes part of the pleasure of the trip: sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. Once you arrive at Verona Porta Nuova, perfectly positioned just minutes from the historic centre, you can start exploring immediately — from the Arena to the Adige riverfront — making Italo the smartest and most enjoyable way to reach the city.
