Verona, Italy Travel Guide: Why This Underrated City Is Worth Visiting
- Meredith Peters
- Jan 5, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 2
When most people plan a trip to Italy, they focus on Rome, Venice, or Florence.
And for good reason.
But there’s another city that deserves a spot on your itinerary, Verona.
I’ve visited multiple times, and every trip has made me appreciate it more. It has the history, the food, and the beauty you expect in Italy, but it feels more relaxed and easier to experience.
If you’re looking for a place that gives you all of that without the intensity of the bigger cities, Verona is worth considering.
A More Relaxed Side of Italy
One of the first things I noticed about Verona was how clean and well-kept it is.
Even on my most recent visit, that still stood out.
The city feels welcoming, and it’s much easier to move around compared to some of Italy’s more popular destinations. You’re not constantly navigating crowds, and you can actually enjoy walking through the streets without feeling rushed.
The Arena di Verona: Still in Use Today
Every time I visit Verona, I make a point to stop at the Arena di Verona.
It’s one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in Italy, originally built in the 1st century. It once held around 30,000 people and was used for gladiator battles.
Today, it’s still used for concerts and operas.
Standing inside, you really get a sense of how much history is layered into this city.
A Closer Look at Verona’s History
On my last trip, I did another guided tour, and it made me appreciate the city even more.
Verona has a long history, from its Roman origins to its time as a powerful city-state in the Middle Ages.
You’ll see that reflected throughout the city, especially in places like the Scaliger tombs and the surrounding architecture.
It’s one of those destinations where a guided tour really adds value because there’s so much you would otherwise walk right past.
The Food Is Worth the Trip Alone
Verona’s food scene is another reason I keep going back.
Yes, you’ll see dishes featuring horse or donkey meat on menus. Not something I personally order, but it’s helpful to know that “cavallo” and “asino” are the terms to look for.
Beyond that, there’s a lot to enjoy.
Risotto all’Amarone is a standout and one of the most well-known dishes in the region. It’s made with the local Amarone wine and has a deep, rich flavor.
Pair that with fresh pasta and local wine, and you’ll understand why this region is known for its food.
A Strong Wine Region Right Outside the City
Verona is located in one of Italy’s best wine regions. Valpolicella and Amarone are both produced nearby, and there are plenty of ways to experience it.
On my most recent trip, I did an e-bike tour that started in the city and went out into the surrounding countryside.
It was one of my favorite experiences. A good mix of activity, scenery, and wine tastings without feeling like a full-day commitment.
A Quick Stop at Juliet’s House
You can’t visit Verona without at least acknowledging Romeo and Juliet.
Casa di Giulietta is one of the most visited spots in the city.
It’s worth a quick stop, but it’s also helpful to know the background. Shakespeare never visited Verona, and the story wasn’t based on real people. The famous balcony was added later.
Still, it’s one of those places people want to see, and it’s easy to include as part of your time in the city.
Verona Is a Great Base for Northern Italy
One of the biggest advantages of Verona is its location.
You can stay here and easily explore other parts of northern Italy.
Venice is a short train ride away
Lake Garda is nearby
The Dolomites are within reach
This allows you to experience more without constantly changing hotels.
Why Visit Verona, Italy: What Makes It Stand Out
Verona has everything people love about Italy, history, food, architecture, and culture, but with a more relaxed feel.
It’s easier to navigate, less crowded, and still incredibly rich in experiences.
For a lot of travelers, that balance makes a big difference in how the trip actually feels.
Thinking About Adding Verona to Your Italy Trip?
If this Verona Italy travel guide has you thinking about your next trip, I’d love to help you plan it in a way that actually fits how you like to travel.
I work with clients who want their trips to feel well thought out from the start, not something they’re trying to piece together along the way.
You can learn more about how I work and schedule a consultation here: https://bit.ly/TravelConsultationWithMeredithP
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