Top 13 Things To Do in Verona: Top Attractions and Hidden Gems

Discover the top things to do in Verona, featuring its well-preserved ruins, grand Roman amphitheater, and countless churches. Know the top activities in the Verona Arena, find the best food spots in Piazza delle Erbe, and learn the story of Romeo and Juliet in Casa di Giulietta.

Verona, a city rich in history and romance, is a must-visit gem in Northern Italy. While it's best known as the setting of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” Verona is equally loved for its Roman heritage and Renaissance architecture.

From ancient Roman architecture to welcoming trattorias, you’ll find plenty of top activities and experiences in Verona. Wine lovers can savor world-class Amarone in Valpolicella, foodies can indulge in authentic Italian dishes, and opera enthusiasts can enjoy a performance under the stars. These experiences are some of the top things to do in Verona.

Whether for city breaks or weekend getaways in Verona, a little planning goes a long way. Choose the best accommodations in Verona's city center to easily reach main attractions, like the Verona Arena and Ponte Pietra. For added convenience, choose from the most affordable car rentals in Verona to visit the nearby wine region. 

Excited to uncover more of the top things to do in Verona? Keep reading to find hidden gems, local spots, and insider tips to make your trip unforgettable.

13. Explore Verona at Night

Visiting the city after sunset is one of the top things to do in Verona. Journey through the city's winding medieval streets and riverside paths on an evening walking tour in Verona.

At night, landmarks like Palazzo Maffei, Scaliger Bridge, and Piazza delle Erbe are beautifully lit, and they look even more charming under soft lighting. The Verona Arena also stands out at night, giving you a chance to appreciate its impressive architecture in a quieter setting.

Want to experience one of the unique stuff to do in Verona? You can discover the notorious murders, grisly torture stories, and beheaded skeletons on a dark historical tour in Verona. It’s a fascinating way to uncover the city’s eerie history after dark.

Planning Tip: The best times to enjoy Verona at night are in spring (March to May) and summer (June to August). During these seasons, the weather is pleasant and the city’s cafes and restaurants stay open late.

12. Experience Truffle Hunting in Verona

Go on an unforgettable quest in Verona to find the elusive truffles hidden beneath the earth. Truffle hunting is one of the unique things to do in Verona. Join a local expert and their trusty dog searching for one of Italy’s highly prized delicacies.

For the best experience, savor the fresh truffles paired with pasta and cheese on a Verona truffle hunting with lunch. If you’re a wine lover, elevate your day by pairing a truffle hunt with wine tastings in Valpolicella—it’s the perfect blend of flavors and tradition.

Planning Tip: The truffle hunting season in Verona runs from September to December. Wear comfy shoes and be ready for some light hiking! Make it a full day by visiting a nearby winery in Valpolicella to indulge in the best of the Veronese countryside.

11. Master Veronese Cuisine in a Cooking Class

Experience being an Italian chef for a day with hands-on cooking classes in Verona. Learn to create authentic dishes such as risotto, fresh pasta, and tiramisu under the guidance of a local chef. It’s definitely one of the top things to do in Verona.

Roll up your sleeves and try your hand at a private pasta cooking class in Verona. From scratch, you’ll master traditional pasta-making techniques and shape everything from ravioli to pappardelle. And for those who prefer a sweet finish, the pizza and tiramisu cooking class in Verona offers the perfect combo.

Craving something extra sweet? Try a gelato-making class in Verona, where you’ll learn the secrets behind Italy’s beloved frozen treat. These cooking classes are not only some of the top things to do in Verona but also a fantastic way to bring a bit of Italy home with you.

Planning Tip: Classes run year-round and easily fit into any Verona itinerary. Pair your class with other top experiences in the city for a full day of Italian culture.

10. Climb the Scenic Viewpoints in Verona

With Roman ruins, terracotta rooftops, the winding Adige River, and the surrounding hills, the sight over Verona is breathtaking. For the best views, one of the top things to do in Verona is to climb the Castel San Pietro.

Walk up or take the funicular to reach the top. To make the most of your visit, consider combining a cable car ride to Castel San Pietro with a walking tour in Verona. It’s the perfect way to explore the city before capping it off with those stunning views.

If you’re in Piazza delle Erbe, climb the Torre dei Lamberti. This medieval tower offers great views of Verona, including landmarks like the Verona Arena and Verona Cathedral.

Planning Tip: Visiting Castel San Pietro and the Torre dei Lamberti at sunset is one of the best things to do in Verona. The funicular operates from April to October between 10:00 and 21:00 and from November to March between 10:00 and 17:00.

9. Walk Through History in Verona

If you're short on time and only have one day to see Verona, focus on exploring the city center. It's a maze of charming streets full of hidden gems like Porta Leoni, ancient churches, and lively squares like Piazza Bra.

Exploring the highlights of Verona on a walking tour lets you learn centuries-old history dating back to Roman times. Not a fan of long walks? One of the top things to do in Verona is to hop on a bike and cruise along its cobblestone streets. You can enjoy a fun biking tour in Verona, passing the iconic Verona Arena and gorgeous Palazzo di Cansignorio.

If you’re looking for unique stuff to do in Verona, consider a Romeo and Juliet walking tour. Visit Juliet’s House and stand on the famous balcony that inspired Shakespeare’s timeless love story. If you’re with someone special, a romantic photoshoot in Verona will help you capture those picture-perfect moments in this City of Love.

Planning Tip: The best times to visit Verona are in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller.

For convenience, look for guesthouses or vacation rentals in Verona near Piazza Bra or Piazza delle Erbe. These central areas offer easy access to top attractions, restaurants, and shops, all within walking distance.

8. Savor Wine in the Valpolicella Vineyards

If you're looking for wine-focused culinary tours in Verona, the nearby Valpolicella wine region lets you experience authentic Italian life. Visiting Valpolicella, just a short drive from the city, is one of the top things to do in Verona.

On a Valpolicella vineyard and wine-tasting experience, you'll visit charming, family-run wineries and meet the owners behind the renowned Valpolicella wines. Enjoy a Valpolicella and Amarone wine tasting surrounded by the stunning hills and vineyards that produce some of Italy’s best.

For those looking for fun activities in Verona, explore the beauty of the wine region on an e-bike tour in Bardolino wineries. These tours take you through scenic vineyards and past olive groves and cypress trees. An olive oil tasting at a family-run winery in Marano di Valpolicella is also a must-do in Verona.

Planning Tip: The best time to visit Valpolicella is in April during the Vinitaly wine fair, one of Italy’s largest wine events. You can also visit during the grape harvest season in September and October to experience the winemaking process up close.

7. Explore the Enchanting Giardino Giusti in Verona

Want to see a hidden gem during one of your cultural tours in Verona? Head to Giardino Giusti, a stunning 16th-century Renaissance garden that offers a peaceful escape from the city.

Visiting Giardino Giusti is one of the top things to do in Verona. It’s known for its historic maze, perfectly trimmed hedges lined with cypress trees, Roman mythology statues, and lovely fountains. Don’t forget to take a short climb to the terrace for breathtaking views of the city. It’s definitely a must-see in Verona!

Planning Tip: For those looking for city breaks in Verona, visit during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the garden is at its most beautiful. Feel free to bring a picnic or rent a setup on-site to enjoy a relaxing day. The garden is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00.

6. Visit the Historic Basilica of San Zeno

Verona is home to remarkable churches, including some hidden gems worth checking out. One must-see in Verona is the Basilica of San Zeno. Not only is it said to be the setting for the wedding in “Romeo and Juliet,” but it’s also a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture.

Visiting the Basilica of San Zeno is one of the top things to do in Verona. It stands out with its warm stone exterior, grand interior, and striking bronze doors.

Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of 12th- to 15th-century paintings adorning the walls. But the showstopper is Mantegna’s “Madonna and Child Enthroned,” a Renaissance masterpiece. Don’t forget to look up—the ceiling’s wooden paneling and details are a sight to behold.

Planning Tip: If you’re adding the Basilica of San Zeno to any of your city tours in Verona, visit earlier in the day before the crowds arrive.

From November to February, the basilica is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 17:00, Saturday from 09:30 to 18:00, and Sunday from 13:00 to 17:30. Between March to October, it will be open from 09:00 to 18:30 during the weekends, 09:00 to 18:00 on Saturdays, and 13:00 to 18:30 on Sundays. 

5. Taste Local Flavors on a Culinary Tour in Verona

Verona is a dream destination for food lovers. Whether dining at family-run trattorias in Piazza delle Erbe or visiting historic wine estates in the Valpolicella region, you’ll find plenty of flavor-filled food tours in Verona to choose from. Exploring Verona’s culinary scene should definitely be on your list of top things to do in Verona.

For the ultimate Italian experience, a Verona food and wine walking tour lets you indulge in tortellini, Soppressa salami, and Valpolicella wines. Sip a perfectly brewed Italian espresso in Piazza Bra, or for a bit more adventure, pair your food tour in Verona with a cable car ride.

Short on time but still want to try the best Valpolicella wines? A guided wine tasting in Verona will take you on a journey through the region’s finest—from aromatic whites to bold reds, finishing with the iconic Amarone.

Planning Tip: If you're looking for authentic local flavors, head to Piazza delle Erbe or the surrounding narrow streets. You’ll find family-run trattorias and traditional osterie serving local cuisines. For a more contemporary dining experience, the lively Via Mazzini is packed with modern eateries.

4. Wander Through Castelvecchio and Scaliger Bridge

Visiting Castelvecchio, a medieval fortress along the banks of the Adige River, is one of the best things to do in Verona. If you’re looking to dig deeper into Verona's history, a guided Verona highlights walking tour will lead you to both Castelvecchio and the nearby Scaliger Bridge.

Inside the castle, you’ll find a collection of medieval and Renaissance art, as well as sculptures and ancient weapons. As you wander through its stone walls and narrow corridors, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Once you've explored the Castelvecchio Museum, make sure to walk across the iconic Scaliger Bridge (also called Castelvecchio Bridge). With its striking red brick arches and towering defensive walls, crossing this medieval bridge is one of the top experiences in Verona.

Planning Tip: Whether you're on a 3-day weekend getaway or a 9-day city break in Verona, set aside at least two hours to explore both the museum and the castle grounds.

To capture the beauty of the bridge at its finest, visit Scaliger Bridge at sunset. The soft golden light makes the red brick arches glow, and the reflection in the Adige River creates a beautiful scene.

3. See the “Romeo and Juliet” Balcony at Casa di Giulietta

For Shakespeare fans and anyone who loves romance, visiting Casa di Giulietta (Juliet’s House) is one of the top things to do in Verona. This 14th-century house is believed to have inspired “Romeo and Juliet,” making it a must-see in Verona.

A Romeo and Juliet walking tour in Verona will take you to the famous balcony, where the star-crossed lovers supposedly exchanged vows of love. While the story might be fictional, the magic of Casa di Giulietta is very real.

Before you leave, put a love note or letter on the wall, where visitors post their dreams, hopes, and romantic wishes. Don’t forget to touch Juliet’s bronze statue—it’s said to bring good luck in love!

Even if romance isn’t your thing, Casa di Giulietta offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s cultural heritage. Visiting this landmark remains one of the best things to do in Verona.

Planning Tip: For a special experience, consider visiting on Valentine’s Day when the Love Festival brings an extra touch of romance to the city. It does get crowded around February 14, but it’s a great way to dive into this legendary love story.

2. Stroll Through Piazza delle Erbe

Just around the corner from Casa di Giulietta, you'll stumble upon Piazza delle Erbe, Verona's oldest square. If you're looking to soak in the medieval charm of the city, visiting this bustling hub is one of the top things to do in Verona.

Piazza delle Erbe is a highlight of many city sightseeing tours in Verona, thanks to its central location. With its lively atmosphere, you’ll be captivated by the colorful buildings with flower-adorned balconies.

A guided walking tour through Verona’s charming squares will lead you past historical gems like the grand Casa dei Mercanti, the colorful facades of Casa Mazzanti, and the renowned Fountain of Madonna Verona in Piazza delle Erbe.

Planning Tip: One of the top things to do in Verona is to visit Piazza delle Erbe on weekdays. You’ll get the chance to chat with friendly vendors, sample some of Verona’s famous balsamic vinegar or olive oil, and soak in the slower pace of everyday Italian life.

1. Explore the Verona Arena

No trip to Verona is complete without stepping inside the iconic Verona Arena. This ancient Roman amphitheater, built in the 1st century AD, is one of the best-preserved in Italy.

Since it’s one of the must-see attractions in Verona, it's ideal to go on a guided Verona Arena tour with an entrance ticket to fully experience this historic site. Dive straight into exploring the vast space where gladiators once fought. Walk through the towering archways, explore the seating areas, and enjoy panoramic views of Piazza Bra from the top.

Want to squeeze even more out of your visit? Go on a private walking tour that includes the Verona Arena, as well as other top attractions like Juliet’s Balcony, Basilica di Santa Anastasia, and Piazza delle Erbe.

For an extra special experience, the Arena hosts world-class performances, especially during the Verona Opera Festival from June to September. This unique blend of rich culture and 2,000 years of history makes attending a show here one of the top things to do in Verona.

Planning Tip: To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning, especially during summer. The Arena is open Tuesday – Sunday, from 09:00 to 19:00. Whether exploring by day or attending an unforgettable opera at night, visiting the Verona Arena is one of the top things to do in Verona.