Verona a week

A remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater, still hosting opera performances today. It's one of the best-preserved ancient structures of its kind.

• Book tickets online in advance, especially during opera season.
• Consider a guided tour to fully appreciate its history.

Verona's largest piazza, surrounding the Arena. It's a lively space filled with cafes, restaurants, and elegant arcades, perfect for soaking in the atmosphere.

• Enjoy an aperitivo at one of the cafes facing the Arena.

An ancient Roman gate that once formed part of the city walls. It's a striking example of Roman military architecture and a testament to Verona's past.

The remains of a Roman theater offering stunning views over the Adige River and the city. Adjacent is the Archaeological Museum.

• The climb is worth it for the panoramic vistas.

A traditional Veronese osteria known for its authentic local dishes and cozy atmosphere. It's a great spot to try regional specialties like pastissada de caval.

The iconic house with its famous balcony, believed to be the inspiration for Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Expect crowds, but it's a must-see for romantics.

• Visit early in the morning to avoid the largest crowds.
• Toss a coin into the fountain for good luck in love.

Verona's vibrant market square, once the site of the Roman forum. It's surrounded by colorful frescoes and historic buildings, offering a lively atmosphere.

• Browse the stalls for local produce and souvenirs.
• Admire the frescoes on the Mazzanti houses.

A tall medieval tower offering panoramic views of Verona. You can climb the stairs or take an elevator to the top.

• The views are spectacular on a clear day.

Also known as Piazza Dante, this elegant square is surrounded by important historic buildings, including the Palazzo della Ragione and the Loggia del Consiglio.

A historic trattoria with a charming ambiance, serving traditional Veronese cuisine. They are particularly known for their risotto all'Amarone.

A striking medieval fortified bridge with a museum housing Veronese art from the 13th to 18th centuries. The bridge itself offers beautiful views of the Adige River.

• Walk across the entire bridge for different perspectives.
• The museum collection is extensive and well-curated.

A beautiful Italian Renaissance garden offering stunning terraces, cypress trees, and panoramic views of Verona. It's a peaceful oasis away from the city bustle.

• The 'Grotta' and the 'Tribuna' offer particularly lovely viewpoints.

Verona's oldest bridge, a Roman arch bridge spanning the Adige River. It offers picturesque views and connects the historic center to the north bank.

Located within the Roman Theater complex, this museum displays artifacts from Verona's prehistoric, Etruscan, and Roman periods.

• This ticket is often combined with the Teatro Romano entry.

A refined restaurant set in a historic palazzo, offering creative interpretations of Veronese cuisine. It's known for its elegant setting and extensive wine list.

The city's main cathedral, a Romanesque-Gothic structure with a beautiful facade and impressive interior artworks, including a notable ceiling fresco.

• Check for visiting hours as it may close for services.

Considered a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, this basilica is famous for its bronze doors and Mantegna's altarpiece. It's a bit outside the main tourist center.

• The exterior bronze doors are a significant artistic treasure.

While Via Mazzini is primarily known for high-end fashion, exploring its side streets can reveal smaller local markets or food stalls for a taste of local life.

Housed in a medieval castle, this museum displays a significant collection of Veronese art, including sculptures and paintings from various periods.

A historic wine bar and restaurant with a beautiful interior, offering a superb selection of wines and traditional Veronese dishes. It's a quintessential Veronese experience.

• Ask the sommelier for a recommendation from their extensive cellar.

Take a regional train from Verona Porta Nuova station to Peschiera del Garda. The journey is short and scenic.

• Purchase tickets at the station or online via Trenitalia.

A charming town on the southern shore of Lake Garda, known for its Venetian fortifications and relaxed lakeside atmosphere.

• Explore the historic Venetian walls.

Take a scenic ferry ride across Lake Garda to the picturesque peninsula town of Sirmione.

• Enjoy the views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

A stunning medieval castle located at the entrance of Sirmione's historic center, offering beautiful lake views from its towers.

• Climb to the top of the keep for panoramic vistas.

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

• The setting is incredibly beautiful, with olive groves and lake access.

Enjoy a lakeside dinner in Sirmione, savoring fresh lake fish or other Italian specialties.

Return to Verona by train from Peschiera del Garda.

Immerse yourselves in local gastronomy with a hands-on cooking class focusing on Veronese specialties like risotto all'Amarone or tortellini di Valeggio.

• Book well in advance as classes are popular.
• Many classes include a market visit.

Enjoy the meal you've prepared during your cooking class.

Revisit the Roman Theatre and its adjacent museum to explore more deeply the Roman history of Verona, especially if you didn't have enough time on Day 1.

Explore the smaller streets off Via Mazzini for artisanal shops selling local wine, olive oil, and Veronese specialties like Pandoro.

A charming wine bar offering a wide selection of regional wines and small plates (taglieri). Perfect for a relaxed evening tasting local flavors.

A final stroll through Piazza dei Signori, and a visit to the Scaliger Tombs, an impressive Gothic funerary monument.

Enjoy a final Veronese breakfast or pastry at this popular local bakery before departing.

Pick up any last-minute gifts or local products near your accommodation or the train station.

Depart from Verona's main train station.