Visiting Verona: Everything You Must See In One Day

“In fair Verona where we lay our scene”. Reading this line in the opening monologue of Shakespeare’s iconic Romeo and Juliet for the first time a decade ago is why visiting Verona has been at the top of my Italian bucket list. The same can probably be said for the thousands of travellers who flock the city each month, hoping to bask in the charm and literary aura of this very special place.

However, beyond its connections to Renaissance tragedy (or romance if that’s how you see it), Verona is a vibrant centre dominated by a remarkably well-preserved 1st-century amphitheatre, countless churches, a couple of architecturally fascinating bridges and fantastic wine. It is easily one of the most attractive places in Northern Italy, not to mention, only a short hop from the sparkling shores of Lake Garda.

So, in all its endless beauty, is it really possible to visit and explore Verona in one day? The simple answer is yes! While it’s a great destination for a quiet weekend getaway, I think a couple of hours here is more than enough to enjoy and relish everything on offer. Read on to find the top attractions and activities you can’t miss while in Verona.

Table Of Contents

Travel and Accommodation In Verona

For a small city, Verona is incredibly well connected. If you’re travelling from abroad, you can fly into Villafranca Airport (VRN), also known as Valerio Catullo Airport.

Alternatively, as most people do, you can take the train into Verona Porta Nuova station from almost anywhere in the country. I highly recommend this if you are visiting Verona from nearby destinations like Milan, Lake Garda or Lake Como.

When it comes to exploring the attractions, the best way it by foot or by renting a bike – but you can also use local buses on the outskirts or the city.

If you are choosing to spend more than a day in Verona, great options include:

Hotel Due Torri
Hotel Milano & Spa
Escalus Luxury Suites Verona
Hotel Giulietta e Romeo
B&B Verona

Must Visit Attractions In Verona

Verona Arena

Dating back to the 1st-century and one the most incredible UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the region, the Verona Arena is a window into a great and rich past while reflecting an enduring legacy. Echoing the roar of ancient gladiator crowds through stone arches, while also serving as a beloved setting for world-class opera, concerts and other events, itperfectly blends the past and present within the acoustic walls.

Piazza Bra

Right outside the Arena, you’ll find Piazza Bra, Verona’s largest square. Surrounded by historic buildings and lively cafés, Piazza Bra is the beating heart of the city and is a wonderful place to have a meal, catch a gorgeous sunset if you’re lucky, and soak up the laidback atmosphere.

Cassa di Giulietta

Whether or not you’re a fan of Shakespeare, and despite the fact that the story is fictional, the allure of Juliet’s balcony and statue is undeniable and visiting Verona is never complete without wandering past this tourist hotspot that celebrates the connection of culture across oceans.

Located in the heart of Verona, the 14th-century home is believed to have inspired the setting for Juliet’s home and where visitors imagine the play’s legendary “balcony scene.” It radiates passionate allure and draws crowds of hopeless romantics who leave love letters or touch the bronze statue of Juliet for good luck in love.

Juliet Statue Verona — Cassa di Giulietta

Verona Cathedral

Also known as the Duomo di Verona, this Romanesque masterpiece, with its stunning Gothic façade, features beautiful frescoes, intricate sculptures, and a richly decorated interior. Be sure to step inside to take in the serene atmosphere where centuries of art and faith come together.

Torre dei Lamberti

The 84-meter-high medieval tower offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the terracotta rooftops, winding Adige River, and surrounding hills that explain why people fall so easily in love with the external beauty of the city. It truly is one of the highlights of visiting Verona.

You can take the stairs if you’re up for a challenge or opt for the elevator for a quicker ascent, but either way the effort is worth the stunning vistas of Verona’s skyline.

Piazza Dele Erbe

After descending from the Torre dei Lamberti, make your way to Piazza delle Erbe, the oldest square in Verona. This lively market square is surrounded by colourful frescoed buildings and historical monuments, including the intricate Fountain of Madonna Verona. You’ll also notice ancient Roman ruins peeking through the cobblestones as you explore the local markets and enjoy some gelato.

Castelcescchio and Ponte Castelvecchio

End your day at Castelvecchio, a striking medieval fortress that once served as a military stronghold. The castle is home to a museum housing a remarkable collection of medieval and Renaissance art and is also located by the Ponte Castelvecchio, a beautiful red-brick bridge offering lovely and peaceful views of the Adige River.