Verona 2 weeks

Verona's main train station, a convenient hub for arrival and departure, connecting to major Italian cities.

A well-regarded restaurant in the historic center, offering classic Veronese cuisine in a refined setting. Known for its traditional dishes and excellent wine list.

• Reservations recommended, especially on weekends.

A remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater from the 1st century AD, still used today for opera performances and concerts. It's a stunning example of Roman engineering and a central icon of Verona.

• Consider visiting during an opera season for a unique experience (tickets are separate and can be expensive).

The largest piazza in Verona, directly in front of the Arena. Lined with elegant arcades, cafes, and restaurants, it's a vibrant hub for people-watching and soaking in the city's atmosphere.

• Enjoy a gelato while strolling around.

A charming osteria nestled in a historic alleyway, serving authentic Veronese dishes and local wines in a cozy atmosphere. It's a great spot for a relaxed and traditional dinner.

• Try the 'Pastissada de Caval' if you're adventurous.

The iconic house believed to be Juliet's, famous for its balcony and courtyard. While a romantic myth, it's a mandatory stop for many visitors to Verona.

• Expect crowds, especially during peak season. Touch Juliet's statue for good luck.

Verona's vibrant market square, built on the site of the ancient Roman forum. It's surrounded by stunning medieval and Renaissance buildings, featuring frescoed facades and a lively atmosphere.

• Browse the market stalls for local produce and souvenirs.

A soaring medieval tower offering panoramic views of Verona. You can climb the stairs or take an elevator to the top for breathtaking vistas of the city's rooftops and surrounding landscape.

• The view is spectacular at sunset.

A historic trattoria located near Piazza delle Erbe, known for its traditional Veronese cuisine and extensive wine cellar. It offers a cozy and authentic dining experience.

• Try their risotto all'Amarone.

Also known as Piazza Dante, this elegant square is surrounded by historic buildings like the Palazzo della Ragione and the Loggia del Consiglio. It's a more stately and refined space than Piazza delle Erbe.

A hidden gem wine bar offering a curated selection of Italian and Veronese wines in an intimate, atmospheric setting. Perfect for a pre-dinner aperitivo or a relaxed evening drink.

• Ask the sommelier for recommendations based on your preferences.

A dramatic fortified bridge with crenellated battlements, offering stunning views of the Adige River and the Castelvecchio. It's a masterpiece of medieval military architecture.

• Walk across the bridge for beautiful photo opportunities.

Housed in a medieval castle and bridge complex, this museum showcases Veronese art from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, including sculptures, paintings, and weaponry. The architecture itself is a major draw.

• Don't miss the Madonna della Quaglia by Pisanello.

A popular restaurant known for its excellent grilled meats and traditional Italian dishes, located a short walk from Castelvecchio. It offers a lively atmosphere and generous portions.

• Their 'Tagliata di Manzo' is highly recommended.

A stunning Renaissance Italian garden across the Adige River, offering beautiful landscaping, ancient cypress trees, grottoes, and panoramic views of Verona from its loggia.

• The garden is particularly beautiful in spring and autumn.

A historic wine bar and restaurant with a cellar dating back to the 15th century. It's a quintessential Veronese experience, offering a vast selection of wines and light bites in an elegant setting.

• A perfect spot for an aperitivo before dinner.

Verona's principal church, a Romanesque cathedral with later Gothic and Renaissance additions. It houses significant artworks, including Titian's Assumption of the Virgin.

• Check for mass times to avoid disruption.

Considered a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, this basilica is known for its striking facade, impressive bronze doors, and the famous triptych by Andrea Mantegna.

• The bronze doors are a significant historical artifact.

A traditional trattoria located near San Zeno, offering authentic Veronese cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. It's a favorite among locals for its home-style cooking.

• The 'Risotto al Amarone' is a must-try.

The largest church in Verona, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Its interior features beautiful frescoes and sculptures, including the famous fresco of St. George and the Princess by Pisanello.

• Look up to admire the intricate ceiling.

A historic and elegant restaurant in the heart of Verona, serving refined Italian cuisine with a modern twist. It's known for its excellent service and extensive wine list, making it ideal for a special evening.

• Dress code is smart casual.

Verona's oldest bridge, a Roman construction that has been rebuilt multiple times. It offers picturesque views of the Adige River and the Roman Theatre complex.

An ancient Roman theatre dating back to the 1st century BC, situated on the northern bank of the Adige. It's still used for performances and offers insights into Roman entertainment.

Located within the Roman Theatre complex, this museum displays archaeological finds from Verona and its surroundings, offering context to the ancient Roman presence in the region.

A casual and authentic trattoria near the Duomo, offering delicious local dishes in a friendly atmosphere. It's a great spot for a mid-range lunch.

• Try their 'Gnocchi di Patate'.

A historic fortress offering the most iconic panoramic view of Verona. Reachable by a scenic funicular or a steep walk, the vista encompasses the Adige River, bridges, and the entire city.

• Visit at sunset for a truly magical experience.

A lively and popular osteria known for its convivial atmosphere, excellent selection of Veronese wines, and hearty local dishes. It's a great place to mingle with locals.

• Can get very busy; reservations are highly recommended.

Departure point for the train to Desenzano del Garda, the closest station to Sirmione.

A short train ride from Verona to Desenzano del Garda, the main gateway to the southern part of the lake.

A frequent bus service connects Desenzano train station to the charming peninsula town of Sirmione.

A picturesque medieval town situated on a narrow peninsula jutting into Lake Garda. Explore its cobblestone streets, charming shops, and vibrant atmosphere.

• Enjoy a gelato by the lake.

A beautifully preserved medieval fortress guarding the entrance to Sirmione. Climb its tower for stunning views over the lake and town.

• The castle is one of the best-preserved in Italy.

The ruins of a large Roman villa at the tip of the Sirmione peninsula, offering a glimpse into Roman aristocratic life and spectacular lake views.

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking among the ruins.

A highly-rated restaurant in Sirmione offering delicious lake fish and Italian specialties with stunning views of Lake Garda. Ideal for a romantic dinner before returning to Verona.

• Book a table with a lake view in advance.

Return journey from Sirmione to Verona via bus and train.

Join a guided tour for a hassle-free exploration of the Valpolicella wine region, known for producing Amarone. Tours typically include vineyard visits, wine tastings, and local insights.

• Book tours in advance, especially during peak season.
• Consider private tours for a more personalized experience.

Enjoy a traditional Veronese lunch at a trattoria or agriturismo within the Valpolicella region as part of your wine tour. Many tours include a stop for local specialties.

• Look for dishes paired with local wines.

Experience a guided tasting of various Valpolicella wines, including Ripasso and the renowned Amarone della Valpolicella. Learn about the unique winemaking process from local producers.

• Ask about the 'Recioto' dessert wine.

Return to Verona and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a restaurant of your choice, perhaps trying a different neighborhood.

A vibrant local market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, cured meats, and regional specialties. It's a fantastic place to experience authentic Veronese daily life and pick up edible souvenirs.

• Visit on a Saturday for the largest selection.
• Try some local fruit or cheese.

A traditional pasta shop where you can find fresh, handmade pasta. It's a great place to buy ingredients for a home-cooked meal or sample local pasta varieties.

A classic Veronese pastry shop and cafe, perfect for a coffee break and a taste of local sweets like 'Baci di Giulietta' or 'Sospiri'. Enjoy a moment of indulgence.

A cozy osteria focused on showcasing regional wines and simple, delicious Veronese dishes. It's a great place to try local specialties in a relaxed setting.

• Ask for their wine pairing suggestions.

Explore the Veronetta district, known for its diverse population and emerging artisan workshops. You can find unique handmade crafts, ceramics, and local art pieces.

• Be open to discovering hidden studios.

A well-loved pizzeria and restaurant offering both classic pizzas and traditional Veronese dishes. It provides a casual yet authentic dining experience.

• Their thin-crust pizzas are excellent.

A monumental Roman city gate, once the main entrance to Verona from the Via Postumia. It's a well-preserved testament to the city's ancient importance.

Another significant Roman gate, offering a glimpse into the structure of the ancient city walls. Excavations around it reveal more of Verona's Roman foundations.

One of the oldest public museums in Europe, housing a significant collection of Roman inscriptions and artifacts. It provides deep insights into Verona's ancient history and epigraphy.

• Focus on the inscriptions for a historical deep dive.

Revisit this historic trattoria for lunch, a reliable choice for authentic Veronese cuisine and a pleasant atmosphere. It's conveniently located for exploring the city center.

• Their risotto dishes are consistently excellent.

Located beneath Piazza Nogara, this archaeological site preserves the remains of a large Roman domus (house) with well-preserved mosaics, offering a tangible connection to daily life in ancient Verona.

• The mosaics are particularly impressive.

A Michelin-starred restaurant offering a refined culinary experience with innovative dishes based on traditional Veronese ingredients. It's an excellent choice for a special celebratory dinner.

• Reservations are essential, often weeks in advance.

Departure point for the train to Mantua.

A direct train ride from Verona to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Mantua, known for its Renaissance art and architecture.

The vast residence of the Gonzaga family, this palace complex boasts over 500 rooms, courtyards, and gardens, including the breathtaking Camera degli Sposi (Bridal Chamber) by Andrea Mantegna.

• Allocate ample time to explore this immense palace.
• The Camera degli Sposi is a highlight not to be missed.

Enjoy lunch at a traditional trattoria in Mantua, savoring regional specialties like 'tortelli di zucca' (pumpkin ravioli) or 'bigoli con l'anatra' (thick pasta with duck sauce).

• Try local wines like Lambrusco Mantovano.

A stunning Mannerist villa designed by Giulio Romano for Federico II Gonzaga. It's renowned for its elaborate frescoes, particularly the Sala dei Giganti (Hall of Giants).

• The architecture and frescoes are masterpieces of the Renaissance.

Return journey from Mantua to Verona.

A complex church with two distinct parts: a Romanesque lower church and a Gothic upper church. The upper church features a stunning wooden ceiling and is less crowded than other major churches.

• The wooden ceiling is a remarkable example of Gothic engineering.

Verona's main elegant shopping street, connecting Piazza Bra and Piazza delle Erbe. Lined with high-end boutiques, designer stores, and popular brands, it's perfect for window shopping or a stroll.

A contemporary cafe offering excellent coffee, pastries, and light snacks. It provides a modern contrast to Verona's historic cafes and is a good spot for a mid-morning break.

A local favorite known for its delicious pizzas and traditional Veronese dishes at reasonable prices. It offers a relaxed and unpretentious dining experience.

• Good value for money.

A triumphal arch from the Roman era, originally located on the Via Postumia. It was dismantled and later rebuilt near Castelvecchio, showcasing Roman engineering and elegant design.

A cozy wine bar and eatery offering a wide selection of local wines and small plates (stuzzichini). It's a great spot to unwind and sample regional flavors in a friendly atmosphere.

• Perfect for aperitivo.

This modern art gallery, located in a historic palazzo, hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary and modern art. Check the current exhibition schedule for details.

• Exhibitions change, so check the website for what's on.

A restaurant with a fantastic panoramic view over Verona, located on the hills above the city. It offers a refined menu and a memorable dining experience.

• Ideal for a romantic lunch or dinner.

Explore the green hills surrounding Verona, offering peaceful walking paths and beautiful vistas of the city from different angles. The area around San Leonardo al Monte is particularly scenic.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Revisit this atmospheric osteria for a final traditional Veronese dinner, enjoying its cozy ambiance and authentic flavors.

• Try their signature dishes one last time.

Immerse yourself in Veronese culinary traditions with a hands-on cooking class. Learn to prepare local specialties like risotto all'Amarone or pastissada de caval.

• Book classes in advance; they often include a meal of what you've prepared.

Enjoy the fruits of your labor during the cooking class, a delicious and rewarding way to experience Veronese food.

A covered market showcasing local produce, artisanal food products, and regional specialties. It's a great place to sample and purchase local delicacies.

• Look for local olive oil and wine.

A charming enoteca offering a curated selection of wines and light snacks in a relaxed setting. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy an evening aperitivo.

• Enjoy the local wines and cheese board.

A refined restaurant in the historic center offering a sophisticated dining experience with creative interpretations of classic Italian dishes. Ideal for a memorable farewell meal.

• Dress code is smart casual.

Pick up any last-minute souvenirs or local products from shops near your accommodation or in the city center.

Enjoy a final Italian breakfast with a cappuccino and pastry at a local cafe.

Depart from Verona's main train station.