Verona is a city of 260,000 in the Veneto region, strategically located on the Adige River about 120 km west of Venice and 150 km east of Milan. Its position on major rail lines makes it extremely accessible from Italy's major cities, and many travelers pass through Verona while moving between Venice and Milan or en route to Como. Don't be one of those travelers who only sees Verona from the train window.
Verona's identity layers Roman history, medieval architecture, and Renaissance art with its most famous literary connection. While tourists flock seeking Romeo and Juliet's balcony (which, to be clear, was invented for tourists and has no actual connection to Shakespeare's fictional characters), locals know the city for its remarkably preserved Roman Arena, still hosting spectacular opera performances in summer and the closing ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics, and for its exceptional Veneto cuisine and proximity to Valpolicella wine country. The Arena, built in the 1st century AD, remains the third-largest Roman amphitheater in Italy and continues to fulfill its original purpose 2,000 years later—that's extraordinary. The city maintains a genuinely lived-in feel despite tourist attention, with vibrant food markets, excellent café culture, and neighborhoods where daily Italian life continues undisturbed.
Come to Verona for Roman history that you can still experience actively, not just observe behind ropes. If you can time your visit for opera season (June through September), watching a performance in a 2,000-year-old amphitheater under the stars ranks among Italy's most unforgettable experiences. Stay to explore the food scene: risotto all'Amarone (risotto made with the region's prized wine), pastissada de caval (horse meat stew, a traditional dish), and wines from nearby Valpolicella including the intense, raisined Amarone and sweet Recioto. The covered Ponte Pietra bridge, the elegant Piazza delle Erbe with its daily market, and the hilltop Castel San Pietro offering sunset views all deserve time. Verona merits more than a quick day trip squeezed between Venice and Milan; give it at least two nights to understand why Veronese are so proud of their city.
Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class
Learn to prepare fresh Italian pasta and classic tiramisu in a hands-on culinary experience inspired by Verona’s rich food traditions.
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Valpolicella & Amarone Wine Experience
Discover the renowned wines of the Valpolicella region while exploring the vineyards and scenic countryside surrounding Verona.
Hidden Verona Private Walking Tour
Explore Verona beyond the main landmarks with a private walking tour through hidden streets, historic corners, and local favorites.
Wine Tasting with Panoramic View
Enjoy regional wines paired with breathtaking panoramic views of Verona and the surrounding landscapes.
Best Airport
Verona (VRN)
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Estimated Time (Airport → City)
VRN → Verona: ~15–25 min (car/taxi) / ~25–40 min (bus)
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Main Train Station
Verona Porta Nuova
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Quick Tip
Porta Nuova is a major hub; easy day trips to Venice, Milan, and Lake Garda.
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Palazzo Tiolo
Located in an old palazzo, this spacious 1-bedroom rental is tucked away from the busier streets and main attractions, but within walking distance to everything, making it the perfect spot. The apartment is close to excellent restaurants, bars, shops, and has a fully-stocked kitchen if you want to dine in. The washer/dry combo was a huge plus and the apartment is beautifully decorated.
Photo source: Palazzo Tiolo
Filia Ristorante
Located in Borgo Trento, a residential neighborhood near the city center, Filia offers modern dishes via two tasting menus or a la carte. With only 5 tables, service is exceptional and extremely personal. The chef introduced many of the dishes to the table and made it a point to get to know us which was great! The menu is exciting and the taste matches the presentation. Reservations required.
Osteria il Bertoldo
This intimate Veronese restaurant has space for less than 30, so make sure to get a reservation ahead of time. Try the Cappuccino di polpo as your appetizer - a playful presentation of deliciousness will arrive. Friendly staff that spoke to us in Italian so that we could practice.
Trattoria Molinara
In Citta Anticà but away from the shopping and bustle, La Molinara starts you off with a serving of mortadella for an appetizer! While you can opt for traditional Veronese with familiar meat options, they also have cavallo and burro on the menu (which are both delicious and worth the adventure!).
Trattoria I Masenini
Right across the street from Ponte Scaligero and Museo di Castelvecchio, Trattoria I Masenini adds a modern twist to the typical served Vernonese cuisine (like adding zucca to their risotto all’amarone. Be sure to try something from their spit roast as well!
Pizzeria Leon D'Oro
One of the best pizzerias in Verona! An extensive menu of classic, white, and specialty pizzas, so everyone can find a favorite. The restaurant has a wonderful outdoor garden that you can dine al fresco in the warmer months.
Antica Bottega del Vino
Very close to Piazza delle Erbe, this combination wine bar and ristorante is great for food or drink. One of the first things you’ll notice when you sit down - the wine list is HUGE! We did New Year’s Eve here, ordered the Bottega Steak and a bottle of Amarone, and were in heaven. The fireworks after at the Arena at the end of the evening helped cap the evening! Reservations recommended.
Locanda 4 Cuochi
In the heart of the city near the Arena, Locanda 4 Cuochi offers traditional cuisine with a modern twist. While there is a general rule to steer clear of restaurants that are on or near the public plazas (and with the vicinity of the Arena close by), this is a fabulous exception - food is terrific AND reasonably priced. Reservations recommended.
Stroll Along the Adige River
Verona was built along a bend in the Adige River, and for much of its history has been used as defensive protection from her enemies as it surrounds two thirds of the historic city center. Today, it has picturesque views everywhere from its walking and biking trails that follow along the river banks.
Juliet's Balcony
Sneak a peek at Juliet's Balcony early in the morning before anyone is there. A bit of a tourist’s delight, the balcony itself wasn’t even constructed until the 20th century. Admittedly, this is not something up our alley, but this is a main draw for the city. Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Check the times as the gate to the courtyard is locked during non-operating hours.
Sbrisolona
I think we ate this dessert after almost every meal once we discovered it. We even made a day trip to Mantua to get it straight from the place it was invented! A crumbly almond concoction, almost like a cookie, with a hint of sweetness - can be served with multiple different types of sauces.
Valpolicella Wines
The regional favorite red wine from east of Verona is made in 5 levels. From easy-drinking every day (Classico), to a -reserved-for-special-times (Amarone), to a dessert wine (Recioto), there’s one for every occasion. We tried a Recito at Osteria il Bertoldo; it was not too sweet and not overtly syrup-y like most dessert wines that we’ve tried previously - much more to our tasting.
Caffè Marocchino Con Panna
There are more famous coffees in Italy that blend in chocolate (see our Turin City Guide about Bicerin), but this specialty served at Caffè Borsari is unforgettable and worth going into the store to try. It’s a small shop, so get there early or be patient to order. The store has a wonderful ambiance as well!
Where will your next journey in Italia take you?