Giada's Guide to Verona
Rich with history, Verona is best known as the setting for William Shakespeare's iconic love story Romeo and Juliet. But there’s more to this enchanting city than its literary fame. Verona beckons visitors to explore its narrow streets and picturesque squares beaming with so much well-preserved medieval architecture, it’s been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From the grandeur of the Arena, a Roman amphitheater that has hosted spectacular performances for over two millennia, to its charming streets lined with vibrant markets, Verona blends the ancient and the modern. Start your day at a quaint café before exploring Piazza delle Erbe, the main piazza. Head to Juliet’s balcony, thought to be located in a 13th-century house, to relive one of the most famous scenes in theater before savoring the local specialty, risotto all'amarone. This dish highlights amarone della Valpolicella, a prized red wine from nearby Valpolicella.
Verona is the third-most visited city in Italy after Rome and Venice, solidifying its place as a must-see destination for those seeking the essence of Italy's rich cultural tapestry. Come and see what this beautifully preserved city is all about.
Getting Around
Verona is a hub linking northern Italy to central Europe via the famous Brenner Pass, which is traveled by rail and road networks. You’ll likely arrive at one of the city’s two train stations: Porta Nuova, the main station where most trains stop, or Porta Vescovo, for local trains from destinations to the east, such as Vicenza and Treviso. The city center is closed to traffic, but most of the major sights are centrally located and easy to walk to. The local bus system is efficient and runs throughout the city and the surrounding areas; use the Bus Verona app to find schedules, routes, and buy tickets. For an eco-friendly adventure, rent a bike through the Verona Bike sharing system, which has stations located throughout the city and an easy-to-use app (passes start at 2 euros/day).
Eat
Cafe Carducci
Beat the tourist crowds at this quaint café that offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Cafe Carducci features a warm, homey atmosphere that’s eclectic yet old-school. The gnocchi is a favorite, along with the “magic salad,” a great choice when you crave lighter fare.
Focaccia Genovese
Ideal for a quick snack, Focaccia Genovese is always brimming with locals. There are tons of tasty focaccias to try that taste even better warmed up. Stop in here for an energy boost before taking on the climb toward Castel San Pietro, a fortress with terraces offering panoramic views over the city.
Gelateria Savoia Verona
There’s never a bad time for gelato! Stop by this gelateria for rich flavors featuring many of Verona’s regional wines, like grappa with sbrisolona, a rich almond cake from neighboring Mantua.
La Tradision
Laid-back, cozy vibes reign supreme at La Tradision. Grab a seat in the verdant courtyard or head inside for a more lively atmosphere. They have a great selection of cured meats and cheeses, as well as satisfying flatbreads like stracciatella with pistachios and mortadella.
Symposio Wine & Food
This hotspot is located in a quiet alley and is perfect for people-watching. The staff is very knowledgeable about wine—let them recommend you the perfect local pour to pair with cured meats and a divine risotto all'Amarone.
Antica Bottega del Vino
This cozy restaurant with its walls lined with wine bottles sets the perfect atmosphere for a leisurely lunch or dinner. Locals love this spot for dishes like housemade gnocchi and pappardelle with venison ragù.
Do
Piazza delle Erbe
Piazza delle Erbe stands out as one of Verona's most lively squares, bustling with stands selling gifts and other items. It’s a great option to do some souvenir shopping, followed by people-watching with a drink at one of the many cafés lining the square.
Arco Della Costa
Take a moment to discover the massive whale’s bone suspended beneath this medieval arch in a walkway between Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori. It’s been hanging there since at least the 18th century, though locals can’t say why for sure; some say it’s a holy relic, while others believe it to be a fossil found in a nearby town.
Via Giuseppe Mazzini
Treat your inner shopaholic to some splurge-worthy goods on this historic pedestrian street lined with designer and mid-range shops, cafés, gelaterias, and more. The gleaming marble roadway gives it an ultra-glamorous ambiance, akin to a mini Milano.
Ponte Pietra Bridge
This Ancient Roman arched bridge crossing the Adige river was completed in 100 BCE, making it the oldest bridge in Verona. Elegant and stately, it’s a great place to stop and take photos of the hills north of the city.
Juliet’s House
Undeniably one of Verona's most visited landmarks, Juliet’s House is a romantic must if you’re a Shakespeare fan touring the city with your partner. The house contains a small museum dedicated to the play and its cinematic adaptations, but most visitors make a beeline to the second-floor balcony to reenact the timeless “Wherefore art thou, Romeo” scene.
Giusti Gardens
This stunning Renaissance gem tucked away from the city center is a true hidden treasure. Outside the palazzo Giusti, this intricately designed garden combines stunning architectural features, a grotto, labyrinth, and many sculptural references to classic mythology. Climb up to the top of the garden for panoramic views of Verona.
Verona Opera Festival
If you find yourself in Verona between June to September, don't miss the chance to catch an outdoor opera performance in the ancient arena. Get there early to buy some wine and other refreshments. For comfort and great views, grab one of the pricier orchestra seats, which have padded theater-style seats. Or, opt for the traditional Roman experience and sit in the cheaper upper tiers, which use the original stone seats (you’ll want to bring a cushion or buy one!). During the off-season, visitors are still welcome to explore the opera house on guided tours.
Get a taste of the region
Gluten-Free Lasagne Pasta
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- $10.00
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- $10.50
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Amaretti Cookies in Venice Tin
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- $19.00
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- $21.50
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Gluten-Free Ziti Corti Rigati Pasta
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- $9.00
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- $9.50
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Gluten-Free Spaghetti Pasta
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- $7.00
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- $8.00
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Gluten-Free Taccole Corte Pasta
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- $9.00
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- $9.50
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Gluten-Free Caserecce Pasta
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- $9.00
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- $9.50
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Gluten-Free Mezzi Rigatoni Pasta
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- $9.00
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- $9.50
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