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Irene Clunie, Short Break Specialist

"Situated between Milan and Venice, Verona is a romantic getaway full of charm with medieval palaces, beautiful gardens and historic landmarks at every turn. Discover the city’s historic centre with a walk through Piazza delle Erbe, with its 14th century fountain, medieval buildings, cafés and souvenir stalls then climb the Lamberti Tower for a bird’s eye view of the city and beyond."

Verona at a glance

Verona is one of Italy’s loveliest cities, made famous by its world-renowned summer opera season. Nestled along the Adige River, Verona is a popular short break destination known for its well preserved historic sights, picturesque squares and romantic atmosphere, thanks in no small part to the city’s most famous fictional residence, Romeo and Juliet.

Verona was first established by the Romans and later came under the occupation of the Goths, Lombards and the Hapsburg Empire of Austria. Liberated from a troubling World War II era of fascism, Verona went through a period of intense reconstruction and preservation that led to it being recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Verona is perhaps best known for its well preserved Roman architecture, with one of its most popular sites being the impressive Roman Arena. Built in the first century, the Arena is the third largest ancient amphitheatre in the world.  Today it is a popular venue for summer opera productions when up to 15,000 people fill its stands.

Perfect if you’re looking for:

  • Historic attractions
  • Romantic short break
  • Art and culture

Getting around

All of Verona’s popular attractions are within easy walking distance, allowing visitors to truly soak up the local atmosphere as they explore the city by foot. 

A bike hire scheme in Verona creates a great alternative for seeing the sites. Bikes are free for the first 30 minutes, after which they can be hired out by the day or by half hour increments.

A limited public bus service runs in some areas of the city.

Dining in Verona

Offering much more than just Italian pizza and pasta, the cuisine of Verona is based on traditional ingredients, much of which is locally grown. Risotto inspired dishes, wild mushrooms, cured meats and an excellent selection of region wines can be found in most traditional restaurants.

Must-try local dishes:

  • Casoela – a casserole made up of pork, cabbage, onion and carrots
  • Pastissada de caval – a popular horse meat stew cooked with red wine and polenta
  • Pandoro – sweet yeast bread shaped like a 8 point star and often served with a dusting of vanilla icing sugar

Shopping in Verona

The historic centre of Verona is dotted with intriguing boutiques and the luxury brands such as Gucci and Burberry are also set in the town. In Verona, leather goods are of high calibre, especially the leather shoes, there’s also a nice selection of perfumers in Verona for unique blends or branded perfumes. The Via Mazzini is the main shopping avenue and boasts the high street brands, the market on Piazza delle Erbe is also a nice market to browse in.

Osprey Holidays top tips

If you intend to visit in the summer months and wish to experience the magic of an opera concert in the stunning setting of the Roman Arena, please make sure you book your tickets well in advance as the concerts are very popular. Our reservations staff will be delighted to assist you in booking the tickets of your choice.

Enjoy outdoor summer opera performances in the city with the longest surviving Roman Amphitheatre in the world. See the beautiful palaces in a city built on the river Adige at the foot of the Italian Alps.

Get your tailor-made city break itinerary

Osprey Holidays can create a fabulous short break to Verona designed completely around your needs. We can arrange whatever you need, including:

  • All travel and transfers on days of your choice
  • Accommodation from our handpicked range of Verona hotels, to suit your budget and requirements

Our award-winning team can provide expert advice and recommendations, from general questions to tiny details. Contact us now for your tailor-made itinerary.

Important information
Population 264,220
Languages Italian
Currency Euro
Visa Information No visa required for UK citizens
Average temperatures

(monthly highs °C)

Interesting facts

For a romantic stroll, visit the beautiful Giardini Giusti at sunset.

Distance from airports
Verona Villafranca 5 km
Railway stations
Verona Porta Nuova

Things to do in Verona

  • Arena di Verona: One of the best conserved Roman amphitheatres, with a seating area of44 levels and able to hold 22,000 spectators.
  • Piazza del Erbe: One of the most historic and picturesque squares in Italy, today it is the setting for a lively daily market.
  • Museo di Castelvecchio: This impressive castle built in the 14th century houses a fine art gallery.
  • Casa di Giulietta: A must for Shakespeare fans, the alleged setting for the Romeo and Juliet balcony scene.
  • Piazza Bra: A great place to people watch from an alfresco cafe.

Tours and Excursions

Verona Arena Tour

Take a skip the line tour of the monument that is Verona’s most iconic symbol. Enter the grand amphitheater with your expert guide to hear stories of gladiators and Roman games, and learn about its long and interesting history. Built in the 1st century AC the Arena survived a 12th century earthquake and is an internationally renowned opera venue during the summer months. 

Sirmione & Lake Garda

Depart from the centre of Verona on a small-group tour to Lake Garda and its most picturesque town, Sirmione which sits at the end of a peninsula and boasts panoramic views over the lake. On arrival you will board a boat for trip around the peninsula to admire the elegant villas and the Roman ruins of Grotte di Catullo.Your guide will then take you on a tour of the old city before you have free time to explore or relax with a tasty Gelato.

Verona Highlights Walking Tour

Join this small group tour with a local guide and discover the history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Admire the medieval Ponte Scaligero and the Arco dei Gavi before heading to the 2000 year old Arena di Verona, now a world renowned opera venue. Finally, you arrive at La Casa di Giulietta and the famous balcony where you will hear stories of how it inspired the romantic tale Romeo and Juliet.                                                                                                                                                                                  

We would be happy to arrange an excursion for you. To discuss options with a member of our knowledgeable team or to book, please contact us on 0131 243 8098.