Things to do in  Verona

Ancient history buffs may know Verona for its spectacular Arena—an intact Roman amphitheater dating from the first century—but the world’s romantics recognize this UNESCO-listed city as the setting of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” Enthusiasts can still visit the iconic balcony at Juliet’s House in Verona’s historic center.

Verona is quite compact, making it easy to see the top sights in a day. Save time with skip-the-line tickets to the Arena then spend the rest of your day exploring highlights including Juliet’s House, Castelvecchio fortress and bridge, and dazzling churches such as Sant’Anastasia and St. Zeno Maggiore.

Juliet’s House is certainly charming and a top city sight, but the Arena is Verona’s true cultural headliner. This Roman amphitheater was used by the ancient Romans for games and gladiatorial battles, and today opera and other music and dance performances here entertain audiences of up to 15,000 people.

Yes. Verona offers world-class cultural sites, a historic center with lively squares, and a more authentic feel than tourist hot spots such as Rome or Florence. It’s located on the main highway and rail line between Milan and Venice and can also be a day trip from Bologna or Lake Garda.

Verona is a very walkable city, so stroll through the old town to take in the two main squares (Piazza Bra and Piazza delle Erbe), Arena, and Porta Borsari. Skirt the Adige River that cuts through the city to admire Castelvecchio and climb up to Castel San Pietro for bird’s-eye views.

Verona is ideally located for a day trip from a number of major northern cities—including Milan, Venice, and Bologna—and you can see the city’s main sights in a few hours. To catch a performance at the ancient Arena, however, you should plan to spend the night.