We know many of you are traveling a long way, so we’ve gathered some ideas for how to make the most of your time in and around Verona if you choose to extend your stay.
The Historic Center
Verona’s old city is mostly pedestrian streets and best experienced on foot. Join a walking tour or take your time wandering the ancient streets, small piazzas, and quiet corners.
If you’re interested in the city’s literary side, you’ll find the places tied to Romeo and Juliet throughout the city — the courtyard, the balcony, and the popular statue. Tradition says giving her bosom a quick pat brings luck in love. We can’t speak for everyone, but one of us tried it years ago… and here we are ;)
Arena di Verona
A first-century Roman amphitheater that still hosts concerts and opera. If your travel dates line up, it’s well worth seeing an evening performance.
Castel San Pietro Viewpoint
A short climb takes you to panoramic views of the city and the Adige River. We highly recommend you go just before sunset.
Aperitivo & Wine Bars
Locals take aperitivo seriously, and it’s one of the nicest ways to ease into the evening. A few of our favorites:
- Osteria del Bugiardo for a relaxed glass of Valpolicella and small plates.
- Osteria La Mandorla for a tiny, atmospheric stop tucked on a side street. Standing room only.
- La Tradision for a wide variety of spritzes or drinks before dinner.
The Valpolicella region surrounds the wedding venue and is home to some of Italy’s best red wines: Amarone, Ripasso, and Recioto among them. The hills are full of small producers and family-run wineries that welcome visitors for tastings and tours.
Lake Garda
About 40 minutes drive west, the lake is perfect for a relaxed day. Go for swim, take a boat, or sit by the water along one of the beautiful surrounding villages.
Venice
If you’ve never been, this is your sign to go. The train from Verona takes about 90 minutes. Go early, wander, and leave before the crowds do.
Soave & Lessinia
East of Verona, Soave offers quiet vineyards and a hilltop castle; Lessinia Natural Park to the north has mountain views and peaceful walks.
Timing
Restaurants often close between lunch and dinner. Evening service usually reopens around 7-7:30.
Reservations
Dinner spots in Verona fill up, especially on weekends. Booking ahead is a good idea, even for casual places.
Payments
Cards are widely accepted, but some smaller cafés, bakeries, and countryside spots prefer cash.
Water
Public fountains around the city provide clean drinking water — locals refill bottles throughout the day.
Dress for September
Days are warm, evenings can cool off quickly. A light layer is helpful for walking around at night or sitting outside, but definitely double-check closer to your trip as weather can be unpredictable.
Sundays & Mondays
Some restaurants and shops close on Sundays or Monday. Worth double-checking hours before making plans.
Parking
If you’re renting a car, note that much of Verona’s historic center is a restricted traffic zone (ZTL). Your GPS won’t always warn you. Parking garages at the edge of the center are the safest bet.