WHAT TO SEE IN ONE DAY IN VERONA
Are you planning your 1-day Verona itinerary and wondering about the best things to do in Verona in one day? Then this post is for you – find out what to do, where to go, and what to see if you have only 1 day in this beautiful Italian city.
You may be surprised to hear this, but I have a confession to make: I was a bit clueless when it came to Verona. My knowledge was limited to the romantic tragedy of Romeo and Juliet. But boy, was I wrong! Verona has completely won me over with its charm and beauty. It’s safe to say that I am now a Verona convert.
It’s now one of my top five favorite cities in Italy, and I’m excited to share why you should add it to your itinerary, even if you only have one day in Verona to explore. Besides tips on where to visit, you will also find travel tips.
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1 DAY IN VERONA – ITINERARY
TIP: For Verona, you might want to consider getting a Verona Card. I did not have any and paid for certain activities + for public transportation. In the end, it was more expensive. So, a Verona Card might save you money. More on that later, but you can check out prices here.
THINGS TO DO IN VERONA IN ONE DAY – ITINERARY
Okay, let’s start with the best tips for things to do in Verona in a day – after that, you will find some quick and valuable travel tips for your trip.
Casa di Giulietta (Juliet´s House)
Good morning and welcome to the world of William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet! One cannot ignore the allure of Juliet’s balcony – the very place where Romeo pledged his undying love for his fair maiden.
Explore this iconic symbol of passion and romance, and discover the secrets it holds within its walls. Delve into the world of Shakespeare and relive the magic of one of the greatest love stories ever told.
You might feel a bit disappointed by the size of the balcony. But don’t worry, you’re not alone – it was quite a disappointment to me, too.
You should also be prepared for the crowds! This spot is undoubtedly the most popular destination in town. So, while you might not get the most spectacular view from your balcony, you’ll certainly encounter an exciting buzz of people and energy.
Looking to escape the crowds and get a more intimate experience with the iconic bronze statue of Giulietta? Come here early in the morning or the evening. As people from far and wide gather to admire this stunning statue, it can be a bit overwhelming during peak hours.
Did you know that you can write a letter to Juliet? And yep, you heard that right, she may not have come back to life, but you can still receive a reply from one of the amazing volunteers who take the time to answer every letter.
Sure, it may take a little while, but it’s worth the wait. Plus, you can even leave a message on the wall or take a trip to the famous balcony where all the magical scenes from Shakespeare’s play happened. So send some love and well, maybe receive a little in return too.
ℹ️ OPENING HOURS/TICKETS: Closed on Mondays, open from 9 am to 7 pm.
ℹ️ Tickets for visiting the inside of the house/balcony are around 6€ and it is free with your Verona Card. I am not sure if it is worth it unless you have a Verona Card and don’t have to pay extra. Just looking at the balcony – from the background – is free.
ℹ️ Depending on the crowds and whether you visit the house or not, it probably takes around 20-60 minutes.
Scaliger Graves
If you’re a fan of history, you do not miss the Scaliger Tombs. These stunning gothic monuments are a tribute to the powerful Scaliger family, who reigned over the city centuries ago. You’ll find them conveniently located near the Piazza dei Signori and a stone’s throw from the famous Juliet’s house.
Don’t miss the chance to visit this piece of Veronese antiquity and learn more about the rich legacy of this fascinating city.
See the mysterious tombs located in a beautiful court outside the church of Santa Maria Antica! Enclosed by a stunning wrought iron fence with a unique stairs motif, these ancient graves are definitely worth a visit. Lucky for you, it won’t take up too much of your day, so you can easily add it to your 1-day Verona itinerary.
ℹ️ OPENING HOURS/TICKETS: Closed on Mondays, open from 9 am to 6 pm with a break from 1 to 2 pm.
ℹ️ Free with your Verona Card. Without a Verona Card, you can buy tickets at the ticket counter.
Piazza dei Signori
Head to Piazza dei Signori, one of the most delightful squares in Italy! Take a stroll toward the majestic Lamberti Tower, and you’ll find yourself in this enchanting spot surrounded by stunning, historic buildings.
And right at the center of it all, stands the great Dante Alighieri, a celebrated poet and philosopher from Verona. Explore the beauty and legacy of this charming square!
It’s not just the statue that’ll make you fall in love with this place. The surrounding buildings and restaurants add a charming touch that’ll leave you feeling enchanted. Go ahead, snap a picture with the statue, then take a leisurely stroll and see what other gems this area has to offer!
- Visiting the square is free and open 24/7
Piazza delle Erbe
Looking for a vibrant and exciting spot to hit up during your day trip to Verona? Look no further than Piazza dell’Erbe! This bustling square is definitely one of our top picks when it comes to soaking up Verona’s unique and lively vibe.
With so much energy and charm, you won’t regret checking out this gem during your one day trip to Verona.
This stunning diamond-shaped gem is surrounded by amazing architecture and breathtaking statues.
Feast your eyes on incredible landmarks like the Fontana Madonna, the Torre dei Lamberti, and Palazzo Maffei. But this spot isn’t just for sightseeing, it’s also the perfect starting point for a shopping adventure.
- Tip: There are many different restaurants and cafes in Verona, and if you like people watching while dining, this square is probably a good choice for your lunch break. Prices here tend to be more expensive, so if you are on a budget, head to one of the side streets to enjoy some delicious pasta.
Torre dei Lamberti / Lamberti Tower
Have you found yourself lost in Verona with no meeting place in sight? Look no further than the Torre dei Lamberti, the tallest tower in the city standing tall at a whopping 84 meters (275 feet)!
Built in the 12th century, this tower is not only a great tourist attraction in Verona but also the perfect spot to gather with your travel companions.
Want a breathtaking view of Verona? Well, you’re in luck because there’s a way to see the whole city spread out before you. Sure, you could take the lift, but where’s the fun in that? Instead, climb the 368 steps to the top and feel a sense of accomplishment while taking in the stunning scenery. Trust me, it’s well worth the effort!
ℹ️ Open from Monday to Friday from 10:00 am-6:00 pm. Tickets are around 8€ (discounts available). Free with your Verona Card.
ℹ️ TIP: Though the tower stands at Piazza delle Erbe, the entrance is on Piazza dei Signori.
Adige River
The Adige River is the second largest river in the country, but it also flows through the stunning South Tyrol region and into the breathtaking Adriatic Sea.
Make sure to take a lovely stroll down the river for about 15-20 minutes. And what will you stumble upon during your walk? None other than the most exciting and gorgeous bridge in town – the Castelvecchio Bridge!
It’s a breathtaking Verona sight that you simply can’t miss. So, why not lace up your walking shoes and embark on this delightful adventure?
Castelvecchio Bridge / Scaliger Bridge
As you stroll by the tranquil river, your gaze might fall upon a sight that will take your breath away. Behold the majestic Castelvecchio Bridge, also known as the Scaliger Bridge, an ancient fortified wonder that was erected in the 14th century.
It was a marvel of its time and the longest bridge of its kind. Marvel at the history and grandeur of this magnificent work of architecture as you take in the stunning view.
While some parts of the wall might be too high to look over, no worries – I’ve got you covered. Climb up the convenient stairs and witness the world from an elevated viewpoint.
And to make your experience even more delightful, on warm days, talented musicians grace the bridge with their sweet melodies. Get ready to be enchanted!
From there, head to the Verona Arena. It is just a ten-minute walk (passing Piazza Pasque Veronesi, among others), and you will see the following main Verona attractions.
Piazza Bra
Verona boasts not one, but two enchanting market squares, and as a passionate market square enthusiast, I can assure you they are both worth a visit. The Piazza Bra stands out as the lively heart of Verona, overflowing with beauty and energy, and it is a must-see destination for anyone looking to soak up the city’s charm.
The streets of mid-September were bustling with life and charm, giving us a glimpse into the beautiful Italian way of life. As we sat on a bench, taking in the breathtaking view of the arena, the Emmanuel Statue, and the colorful houses, we couldn’t help but dream of living here for a year or more.
It was an extraordinary sight to witness the locals strolling around, enjoying the warm sun and lively atmosphere. It’s no wonder why this city is so irresistible and why we can’t wait to return.
TIP: While walking is a fun way to see the city, we’ve got a tip that might make your day even better. Hop on one of the cute little sightseeing trains that depart from Verona and take a quick tour before the day ends.
It’s a great way to get a lay of the land and see some of the city’s highlights without getting too tired. Have an amazing time in Verona!
Arena di Verona / Verona Arena
Prepare to be amazed by the Arena di Verona, a true gem nestled in Piazza Bra. This stunning amphitheater may look like its Roman sibling, the Colosseum, but it’s actually a few decades older – over 2,000 years old!
And get this, it’s the third biggest amphitheater in Italy! So make sure to add this to your bucket list and experience the history and beauty for yourself.
Step back in time to a venue that once hosted intense gladiator and animal fights, but now serves as a beautiful backdrop for operas and theater plays. This iconic spot in Verona is a must-visit, attracting countless curious visitors every year.
To beat the crowds, snag some skip-the-line tickets. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to see the inside due to the afternoon rush. But don’t let that stop you from experiencing the history and artistry of this amazing destination.
ℹ️ Opening Hours change, depending on the season and whether an opera is going on, but usually, it is open from Monday to Sunday from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm (Mondays it opens later)
ℹ️ Prices are around 10€ (free with your Verona Card or if you have a Trentino Guest Card).
San Leonardo Fortress
Looking for a stunning view of the city of Verona? Look no further than San Leonardo Fortress! This majestic stronghold sits atop a hill, providing breathtaking views that are second only to the Lamberti Tower.
I highly recommend taking the time to make the ascent – it’s well worth the effort! So why not hop on over to San Leonardo and soak up the panoramic vista?
If you’re looking for the perfect way to unwind after a busy day, I’ve got you covered. Take a leisurely stroll from Piazza Bra – it’ll take you around 40-55 minutes (and be partly uphill, so bring comfy shoes!).
But trust me, the panoramic views you’ll experience at the end make it totally worth it. So take a deep breath, stretch your legs, and enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets in the city – it’s the perfect way to end your day on a high note!
TRAVEL TIPS FOR YOUR 1 DAY VERONA TRIP
Now, let´s talk about some important travel tips for your trip to pretty Verona.
Is Verona in One Day Worth Visiting?
Yes, Verona is definitely worth visiting. I genuinely believe it should be on any Italy itinerary, and while one day is probably not enough, it will at least allow you to get a good glimpse of the city (and it will make you hungry for a second trip).
I do not want to repeat myself by talking about the sights and their charm – so, I hope, the above suggestions convinced you already.
How to Get to Verona
Verona has an airport – Verona Villafranca Airport (also known as Valerio Catullo Airport), just 10 km outside the city center. The cheapest (and still a convenient way) to get to the town center is via bus (one-way costs around $7).
We (my parents and me) came from Lake Garda by car and parked quite far. We wanted to avoid driving in the city center (Italian cities have narrow streets and people drive a bit…let´s say recklessly). However, there are places to park, but you might have issues finding (free) parking spots, so especially during peak season, free parking will be almost impossible.
If you come from other places in Italy, then come by train. Public transportation in Italy is quite good – often very budget-friendly and easy to use (and even punctual most of the time). It takes about 15 minutes to walk from the train station to the city center (but there are also buses going to and from the city center to the train station).
Verona Card for One Day
ℹ️ I did not have the Verona Card, which I regretted because it can help you save a lot of money and time (allowing you to skip lines).
ℹ️ I paid around 8€ for the Lamberti Tower alone. The Verona Card costs only 20€ for 24 hours (and 22€ for 48 hours).
ℹ️ You get access to most of the tourist attractions in Verona and can use public buses. Click here for the exact prices.
How to Save Money in Verona
ℹ️ Bring a reusable water bottle – there are a few water fountains in the city where you can refill your bottle with fresh drinking water.
ℹ️ Wear comfortable shoes so you can visit all the pretty places and walk to most places.
ℹ️ As mentioned above, the Verona Card might help you save money, too.
1 Day in Verona – How to Get Around
ℹ️ Verona is a very compact city – you can walk around the old town comfortably.
ℹ️ There are sightseeing buses, and Northern Italy tends to have a good public transportation system in general.
ℹ️ With the Verona Card, you can even use public transportation for free.
Where to Stay in Verona
We, unfortunately, did only a day trip, but if I could turn back the hands of time, I would stay at least one night in Verona. However, this hotel would be my first pick for my overnight stay in Verona.
Mid-Range – Hotel Milano: Just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Verona Arena, you’ll find the charming Hotel Milano. Nestled in the heart of the historic center, this delightful spot boasts free WiFi, a rejuvenating spa and wellness center, and a mouthwatering breakfast buffet – complete with authentic Italian cappuccinos and scrumptious pastries. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Milano here.
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FINAL THOUGHTS ON BEST VERONA ACTIVITIES
Verona – the picturesque city in northern Italy is best known as the setting of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” but there is so much more to it.
Its ancient streets and squares exude a romantic ambiance. The heart of Verona is marked by the impressive Arena, a Roman amphitheater hosting world-class operas. Medieval buildings, vibrant piazzas, and charming bridges over the Adige River add to its allure. Verona is a treasure trove of culture, history, and exquisite Italian charm.
I am sure I will head back to this stunning city and explore it in a more leisurely way. Verona has just a great vibe, and it deserves more time. But one day in Verona is better than nothing. So, hopefully, you enjoy the place as much as I did, and this Verona itinerary helps you find the most beautiful places to visit and the best things to do in one day.
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