Verona (province) Travel Guide

Plan your holiday with our comprehensive travel guide to Verona (Province). Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and more.


Introduction to Verona (Province)

Verona is a charming little province located in the Veneto region, known for its rich culture, history, and gastronomy. The province boasts of picturesque towns, stunning natural landscapes, and a vibrant arts scene. Its enchanting beauty has inspired notable writers and artists throughout history, including Shakespeare, who chose it as the setting for his famous play, Romeo and Juliet.

List of Places to Visit in Verona (Province)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Piazza delle Erbe Once a Roman forum, Piazza delle Erbe is now a lively square that hosts a lively market and numerous events throughout the year. It is surrounded by historic buildings, including frescoed palaces and the famous Torre dei Lamberti, which offers a panoramic view of the city.

  • Arena di Verona The Verona Arena is a Roman amphitheater built in the 1st century AD. It is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world and still hosts concerts and operas today.

  • Juliet’s House Located in Verona’s historic center, the Casa di Giulietta is a popular tourist attraction. According to legend, this is the house where Shakespeare’s Juliet lived. Visitors leave love letters and notes on the walls and visit the balcony where Juliet supposedly spoke to Romeo.

  • Basilica di San Zeno The Basilica is a magnificent Romanesque church dedicated to Saint Zeno, Verona’s patron saint. It houses one of the most important collections of Romanesque art in northern Italy, including sculptures, frescoes, and paintings.

Natural Attractions of Verona (Province): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Garda Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake, surrounded by mountains and picturesque towns. It is a popular spot for water sports, cycling, and hiking. Visitors can also take boat tours or visit the charming towns that surround the lake, including Sirmione, Peschiera, and Desenzano.

  • Monte Baldo Monte Baldo is a mountain range located between Verona and Lake Garda. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and numerous hiking and biking trails.

  • Parco delle Cascate Located in Molina, the Parco delle Cascate is a nature reserve that is home to several waterfalls, including the Cascate di Molina. It is an ideal destination for hiking and exploring.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Verona (Province)

Some of the best hiking and biking routes in Verona province include:

  • Soave Castle Loop This trail starts at the Soave Castle in the town of the same name and takes you through vineyards and countryside. The castle is a perfect spot for a picnic or to taste some of the region’s best wines.

  • The Adige River Trail The Adige River trail follows the river from Verona to the town of Trento and is an excellent place for a bike ride or leisurely walk. Along the way, you can stop at several charming towns, including Villafranca and Rovereto.

  • Sentiero dei Forti This trail takes you through the Veneto countryside and past numerous forts and castles. It is a challenging hike that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Verona (Province): Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tours Verona province is known for its excellent wines, particularly the Soave and Valpolicella varieties. Many vineyards offer guided tours and tastings, where visitors can learn about the winemaking process and taste some of the region’s best wines.

  • Opera and Concerts in the Arena The Verona Arena hosts numerous opera performances and concerts throughout the year. It is a unique opportunity to enjoy world-class music in an extraordinary setting.

  • Cooking Classes and Food Tours Verona is famous for its cuisine, particularly its pasta dishes and local cheeses. Visitors can take cooking classes and food tours to learn about the region’s culinary traditions and savor the delicious local cuisine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Verona (Province)

Day 1: Arrive in Verona and explore the historic center. Day 2: Visit Lake Garda and explore the towns of Sirmione and Peschiera. Day 3: Take a hike in the Parco delle Cascate nature reserve. Day 4: Explore the vineyards and wineries of the Soave region. Day 5: Visit the medieval towns of Soave and Montecchia di Crosara. Day 6: Take a bike ride along the Adige River Trail. Day 7: Relax and enjoy the local cuisine in Verona.

Food and Drink Scene of Verona (Province)

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bollito Misto Bollito Misto is a traditional meat-based stew made with beef, pork, and chicken cooked in a broth of onions, carrots, and celery. It is typically served with a variety of sauces, including mustard and Horseradish.

  • Risotto alla Scapece Risotto alla Scapece is a creamy rice dish with sauteed zucchini, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.

  • Risotto all’Amarone Risotto all’Amarone is another flavorful rice dish made with Amarone wine, a red wine produced in the Valpolicella region.

Local Beverages

  • Soave Soave is a dry white wine made with Garganega grapes. It pairs well with pasta dishes and seafood.

  • Amarone della Valpolicella Amarone della Valpolicella is a full-bodied red wine with a deep color and complex flavors. It is made from partially dried grapes and pairs well with grilled meats and cheeses.

  • Spritz Spritz is a refreshing cocktail made with Prosecco, Aperol, and soda water. It is a popular summer drink in Verona and throughout the Veneto region.

Where to Stay in Verona (Province): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Verona has a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the best places to stay include:

  • Hotel Veronesi La Torre This luxurious hotel is set in a restored 15th-century monastery and is surrounded by a peaceful park.

  • Hotel Accedemia Located in the heart of Verona’s historic center, Hotel Accedemia is a comfortable and affordable option in the city center.

  • Casa dell’Architetto This charming guesthouse is located in the small town of San Giovanni Lupatoto and offers a cozy and relaxing atmosphere.

What to Buy in Verona (Province): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Vin Santo Vin Santo is a sweet dessert wine made with partially dried grapes. It is best enjoyed with biscotti or other traditional Italian desserts.

  • Cheeses Verona is known for its variety of cheeses, including Monte Veronese, Asiago, and Grana Padano.

  • Handmade Jewelry Verona’s historic center is filled with artisan jewelry shops that sell unique and beautiful pieces.

Local Culture and Customs of Verona (Province)

Verona is a charming and welcoming city with a rich cultural heritage. Like many Italian cities, Verona has a strong tradition of family and community, with many events and festivals celebrating these values. Visitors are encouraged to take part in local customs and traditions, including dining with locals and attending local festivals.

Best Time to Visit Verona (Province)

The best time to visit Verona is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be very hot, and the historic center can be crowded with tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Verona (Province)

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, including pasta dishes, cheeses, and wines.
  • Explore Verona’s historic center and take in its rich cultural heritage.
  • Attend a local festival or event to experience the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Expect shops and restaurants to be open during siesta time (usually from 1 pm to 4 pm).
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Leave your belongings unattended.

Safety and Health

Safety in Verona (Province)

Verona is a relatively safe destination. Visitors are advised to take normal precautions, such as keeping valuables out of sight and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

Health in Verona (Province)

It is recommended that visitors to Verona have basic medical insurance and bring any necessary medication with them. Visitors should stay hydrated during the hot summer months and avoid over-exertion during outdoor activities.

Getting to Verona (Province): Transportation Options and Logistics

Verona is well-connected to other major cities in Italy and Europe. The most convenient ways to travel to Verona include:

Airports Near Verona (Province)

  • Verona Airport is located just 5 km from the city center and offers direct flights to several major European cities.

  • Venice Airport is located about 130 km from Verona and is a major hub for international flights.

Bus Stations Near Verona (Province)

  • Verona Bus Station is located in the city center and offers connections to other major cities in Italy and Europe.

Other Options

  • Train travel is an excellent way to explore Verona and the surrounding region. The central train station is located in the city center and offers connections to other major cities in Italy and Europe.

  • Car rental is also an option for visitors who want to explore the countryside and smaller towns in the region.

How to Get Around in Verona (Province)

The best way to get around Verona is by foot, as most of the city’s attractions are located within walking distance of each other. Visitors can also rent bikes or take public transportation, including buses and trains.

Where to Go Next from Verona (Province): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Venice Venice is located about 120 km from Verona and is a unique and beautiful city built on a series of islands and canals.

  • Bolzano Bolzano is located about 80 km from Verona and is a charming Alpine town known for its stunning natural landscapes and historic architecture.

  • Lake Garda Lake Garda is located just 30 km from Verona and is an ideal destination for water sports and picturesque towns.

Conclusion

Verona is a charming and welcoming destination that offers visitors a truly unique Italian experience. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor activities, Verona has something to offer everyone. Plan your trip today and discover why Verona is one of Italy’s hidden treasures!