Verona is one of those cities that quietly steals your heart. Smaller and calmer than Rome or Florence, but just as rich in history, atmosphere, and beauty, it’s the kind of place where you slow down without even trying. One moment you’re wandering along the Adige River, the next you’re standing in a Roman arena or sipping wine in a sunlit piazza. If you’re planning a visit and wondering about the best things to do in Verona, this guide focuses on experiences that help you feel the city — not just tick landmarks off a list. These five activities blend history, culture, food, and a bit of romance, all at a pace Verona does best.
1. Step Back in Time at the Verona Arena
It’s impossible to miss the Arena — and you shouldn’t try. Rising proudly in Piazza Bra, this remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheater dates back to the 1st century AD and is still very much alive today.
During the day, you can walk inside and imagine the roar of ancient crowds who once gathered here for gladiator games. In the summer, the Arena transforms into one of the most atmospheric opera venues in the world. Even if you’re not an opera fan, attending a performance here is unforgettable — warm night air, stone arches glowing under the lights, and music echoing through centuries of history.
When people talk about the best things to do in Verona, the Arena almost always tops the list — and for good reason. It’s history you don’t just see, but experience.
2. Wander Verona’s Historic Center (No Plan Required)
Verona is best discovered on foot, with no strict agenda. The historic center is compact, walkable, and full of small surprises — quiet courtyards, elegant palazzi, and little bakeries that tempt you inside.
Start around Piazza delle Erbe, once the Roman forum and now the lively heart of the city. From there, wander toward Piazza dei Signori, with its statues and café-lined edges, then let yourself drift down side streets where laundry hangs from balconies and locals greet each other by name.
This kind of wandering might not sound like an “activity,” but it’s honestly one of the best things to do in Verona. The city reveals itself slowly, rewarding curiosity rather than rushing.
3. Discover Juliet’s Story – and the Real Verona Behind It
Yes, Juliet’s House is touristy. Yes, there’s a balcony. And yes, it’s still worth seeing — as long as you know what you’re walking into.
The story of Romeo and Juliet has become inseparable from Verona, even though Shakespeare never visited the city. Visiting Casa di Giulietta is less about historical accuracy and more about how stories shape places. Couples leave love notes, visitors rub Juliet’s statue for luck, and the courtyard buzzes with excitement.
That said, the real magic happens just beyond the crowds. Nearby streets offer a quieter, more authentic Verona, where medieval buildings and everyday life continue as they have for centuries. Seeing both sides helps you understand how myth and reality coexist here — one of the more unexpected but memorable experiences in town.
4. Walk Along the Adige River and Cross Ponte Pietra
For a slower moment, head toward the Adige River. A riverside walk offers a completely different perspective on Verona — calmer, greener, and deeply photogenic.
Ponte Pietra, the city’s oldest bridge, is a highlight. Originally built by the Romans and rebuilt several times over the centuries, it connects the historic center with the hills beyond. From the bridge, you’ll get postcard-worthy views of colorful buildings reflected in the water.
If you’re up for it, cross the bridge and walk uphill toward Castel San Pietro. The climb is gentle, and the reward is one of the best panoramic views in Verona — especially at sunset. Sometimes the best things to do in Verona are also the simplest.
5. Eat and Drink Like a Local (Slowly)
Verona is in the Veneto region, which means excellent food and wine are never far away. One of the true joys of visiting is sitting down for a long, relaxed meal — or several.
Try local specialties like risotto all’Amarone, fresh handmade pasta, or cicchetti-style small bites paired with a glass of Valpolicella wine. Whether you choose a cozy trattoria or a lively wine bar, the emphasis is on quality and enjoyment, not rushing.
Food in Verona isn’t just fuel – it’s more like a social ritual. Watching locals linger over conversation is a reminder to do the same. For many travelers, this becomes one of the best things to do in Verona, even if it wasn’t part of the original plan.
Why Verona Is Worth Slowing Down For
Verona doesn’t demand your attention with grand gestures. Instead, it invites you in quietly – through atmosphere, stories, and everyday beauty. Roman ruins stand beside medieval towers, opera echoes through ancient stone, and modern life continues at an easy, welcoming pace.
If you’re building an Italy itinerary, Verona is the perfect place to pause between larger cities. Spend a couple of days walking, eating, exploring, and letting the city unfold naturally. You’ll leave feeling like you didn’t just visit this city – you experienced it emotionally.
