Verona is the home of star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet, but it gained star status long before Shakespeare used it as the setting for his play. Back in the first century, Verona was a Roman stronghold; Verona Arena – one of the most remarkable Roman sites in Italy – transforms into an opera venue each summer. This, along with a host of medieval treasures, are all tucked into the curve of the Adige river. Beyond Verona, there are vineyards to wander (and wine tastings to indulge in), and Lake Garda lies just over the horizon.
Walking around fair Verona
There’s far more to Verona than Romeo and Juliet… although the ‘Capulet’s House’ is a great place to start your city wanders. Arrive early in the morning to see the legendary balcony minus the crowds and to free up your day for exploring. Elsewhere, some of the best views come courtesy of the Ponte Pietra, which you can follow across the river and up to St Peter’s Hill. Scaliger Bridge is a must-see, too. Its tower-topped arches lead to the Castelvecchio Museum, which is housed in the restored castle of the powerful Scaliger family.
Aimless exploring: putting the maps down
Our best tip: put the maps and apps down and let your curiosity lead the way for a bit. You’ll find peaceful streets, hidden churches and hole-in-the-wall shops – plus, the best bars and trattorias are often tucked down the side streets. These eateries might not make it to the top of TripAdvisor but are well-loved by local people. The more popular piazzas are great for a cappuccino with a view. Piazza Bra is one of the biggest squares in Italy, with views of Verona Arena. Piazza delle Erbe, meanwhile, marks the spot of the Roman forum and hosts a lively market.
Drink your way through Veneto vineyards
Valpolicella stretches out on the outskirts of Verona. It’s one of Italy’s oldest winemaking regions, with people growing grapes here since pre-Roman times. Amarone is a delicious dry red concocted amongst these low hills; Recioto red wine is a little sweeter. The Bardolino vineyards make a great day trip too and come with glorious views of Lake Garda.
Day trips by train and multi-centre holidays
Venice, Bologna, Florence, Milan, Trento – some of Italy’s prettiest cities are in easy reach by train. For something a little different, make tracks for Lake Garda; multi-centre holidays between cities and lakes are a great way of exploring even more of what the Italy has to offer. The southern shore is just a 20-minute rail journey away from Verona. Here, you can explore waterside promenades, extravagant gardens and castle-topped Sirmione. Boats glide between Garda’s shoreside towns, too, many of which are the starting point for panoramic hikes.
Why book a summer holiday in Verona with Inghams?
At Inghams, we do walking holidays differently. With no fixed itinerary, you have more time in your destination and the freedom to walk as much or as little as you like, discovering some of Verona's best activities at your own pace.
With over 85 years of outdoor travel experience, our holiday packages to Verona include flights, transfers, and accommodation, so you can relax and leave the small details to us. Our experts can help you choose the best holiday for you, and our team in resort can give you the inside scoop on how to spend your time away with us.
