What are the best things to do in Verona? The city of Romeo and Juliet is the right place to spend a wonderful weekend. Let’s discover what to do in Verona in two days, including culture and incredible food & wine.
Today I want to say hello to you by presenting an incredible city, a place where liveliness and culture coexist in harmony… We are talking about Verona, the city of Love!
My aim is to take you to the heart of this magical place, explaining why you absolutely must visit it. Verona is the ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend break. However, it has to be said that even a long holiday can be the best choice as there are so many interesting things to do in Verona!
Verona, in the heart of the Veneto region, is crossed by the river Adige and boasts countless works of art, including the unmissable Arena, Juliet’s balcony and many medieval buildings. The latter can be reached through alleys and squares, which represent the beauty of this romantic paradise.
Perhaps you don’t know that Verona was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 because of its incredible architecture, influenced by the different eras and artistic currents that have followed one another over the centuries. Take a deep breath: you are about to be catapulted into a tornado of emotions!
Want to visit Veneto? Discover all the experiences and travel ideas!
What to do in Verona in two days, to take it into your heart!
I have prepared for you an itinerary with all the main points of interest and useful suggestions to visit Verona in two days. After all, we are talking about a city that you can see completely on foot!
Don’t get lost between the lines, I advise you to keep a map handy to note down the top tourist attractions in Verona that I am about to describe. The best things to do in Verona in two days are ordered according to their proximity to each other… You can’t get confused!
Do you think 2 days in Verona is too little time to see everything? I’ll show you that it’s not… Ready? Here we go! 😉
1) Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore
Considering that almost all the places to see in Verona are located near the historic centre, as a first stop on this trip it might be smart to pop into the more isolated Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore and then visit the remaining sites.
Once out of the Porta Nuova train station, you’ll have to cross the magnificent historic quarter of “La Cittadella” and finally arrive at the foot of the monument dedicated to the city’s patron saint: San Zeno.
This magnificent basilica has a very ancient history and you can’t remain indifferent to its incredible Romanesque style, particularly visible when admiring its beautiful façade.
2) Castelvecchio
Approaching the historical centre, you will be fascinated by the sight of Castelvecchio, a historical fortress in medieval style. Inside is a museum filled with works of art, including weapons, paintings, sculptures and many other incredible attractions.
You’re sure that you’ll know Carlo Scarpa, the famous architect who was responsible for restoring the museum.
Next door you can take a walk on the Castelvecchio Bridge, which resembles a castle in its shape… From the bridge you can admire the Adige river in all its splendour and enjoy a breathtaking view of the city!
3) The Arena di Verona
You cannot remain indifferent in front of the Arena di Verona, a true icon of the city! The Arena is definitely on your list of the top places to see in Verona in two days.
Dating back to Roman times, it is an incredibly well-preserved amphitheatre whose charm is recognised the world over and is even referred to as “the little Colosseum”.
Now we have entered the real historical centre of Verona!
Of course, at that time the Arena was used for gladiatorial fights, but now, I’m sorry to say, you won’t be able to watch such events. However, you can be happy to enjoy concerts by international musicians… You didn’t do so bad after all, did you?
4) Piazza Bra
Known to be the largest square in Verona, Piazza Bra is the place where everything originates and where the Arena shows itself in all its magnificence.
Our itinerary on what to do in Verona in 2 days starts right here. As well as relaxing comfortably at the tables of the many outdoor venues, you can admire Palazzo Barbieri, originally built as a military barracks and now the town hall, and Palazzo Gran Guardia, an incredible piece of architecture that was built in the 1600s and now hosts exhibitions and congresses.
5) Via Giuseppe Mazzini and Corso Porta Borsari
Directly from Piazza Brà you can reach one of the most famous shopping streets: Via Giuseppe Mazzini. Due to the high number of big brands as well as historic and luxury clothing shops, it can be somewhat defined as the “via del Corso of Verona”.
If you’re interested in shopping, you should pop into Corso Porta Borsari, also in the historic centre. These two streets offer wonderful views and connect the different areas of the city, making them very important!
6) Juliet’s House
Known around the world as a testament to the complicated love story told by William Shakespeare, Juliet’s House is now home to some of the most interesting temporary art exhibitions.
This is the place for you if you want to relive the emotions evoked by the writer’s tragedy, visiting the courtyard and balcony where Juliet looked out to talk to Romeo, her lover. Not to be missed if you don’t know what to do in Verona in 2 days!
7) Romeo’s House
Romeo’s house, the other protagonist of Shakespeare’s tragedy, is the historic home of the Montagues and is an excellent idea for Verona sightseeing tours…
Unfortunately, I must inform you that today the building is privately owned and therefore you will not be able to visit the courtyard with a guided tour. However, if you get really hungry I have great news for you… You can dine at the Osteria al Duca, right inside Romeo’s old house!
8) Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori
In Verona, 2 days are enough time to visit the historic centre and you absolutely must see these two incredible squares!
So called because at the time it housed a fruit and vegetable market, Piazza delle Erbe is the oldest square in Verona. Here you will be catapulted into a marvellous atmosphere, thanks to its enchanting buildings from different eras and architectural styles.
Right next door is Piazza dei Signori, known by the Veronese as Piazza Dante because of the monument in the centre of the square.
9) The Lamberti Tower
Here’s one of the best places to see in Verona in 2 days: The Lamberti Tower! With its 84 metres in height and 368 steps, this tower offers an incomparable view and truly authentic views, overlooking the Palazzo della Ragione.
10) Achille Forti Gallery
The place I have just mentioned, the Palazzo della Ragione, is an important example of Romanesque architecture. Over time it was devastated by various fires and rebuilt several times during the 1800s.
Inside the palace there is the Achille Forti Gallery, in honour of the Veronese bourgeois who donated his entire art collection at his death.
I am sure you will fall in love with the paintings that can be seen in this wonderful place!
11) Scaliger tombs
Nothing less than the place where the most important members of the Scaliger family were buried. The so-called “Arche Scaligere” is an incredible funerary monument depicting one of the most fascinating examples of Italian Gothic.
Here’s what to do in Verona in two days: if you are an art lover, you can’t miss visiting the three mausoleums, which are completely speechless for their beauty. Absolutely among the best things to do in Verona in two days!
12) Church of San Fermo Maggiore
The Church of San Fermo Maggiore is something really exciting! The masterful fusion of two churches, one upper and one lower, makes this place a delightful combination of styles and eras.
Let yourself be carried away by its frescoes, important relics and works of art. A visit to the lower church, Benedictine and Romanesque in style, and the upper church, Franciscan and Gothic in style, will probably be among the right things to do in Verona!
13) Giusti Palace and Garden
Leaving the church of San Fermo Maggiore and crossing the Ponte Nuovo, you will find yourself in the Veronetta district: here you can admire Palazzo Giusti.
This very old palace dating back to the 16th century is famous for its incredible garden, full of flowers, bushes and embellished with fountains and mythological statues in a truly wonderful atmosphere!
14) Archaeological Museum
You can’t miss a stop at the Archaeological Museum… Here you can enjoy a breathtaking view over the city and the Adige river, and be bewitched by the ancient finds and Roman mosaics.
In fact, it is in this very area that the Roman Theatre is located, a place where performances of Shakespeare’s plays take place every summer. What are you waiting for to come to Verona?
15) St Peter’s Hill and Castle
What else can you see in Verona in 2 days if not St Peter’s Hill and its magnificent Castle? The Castle of San Pietro has always had a strategic importance for the governors of the city. In fact, its position facilitated the repression of popular revolts.
From this incredible hill, you can admire the city in all its splendour. For this reason, I suggest you take advantage of the funicular, which takes you to the top in a matter of seconds!
16) Stone Bridge
Wondering what to do in Verona in two days? Come to the Stone Bridge! With this itinerary to visit Verona in two days you will cross the Stone Bridge only once, but you can go back whenever you want and I can absolutely understand that!
Restored and rebuilt several times from its ancient Roman origins, this bridge was completely destroyed by the Germans during the Second World War, but now presents itself in all its beauty, connecting Verona’s historic centre.
17) Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is nothing less than the Duomo of Verona.
This is definitely a must-see as it is truly fascinating, as are the Palazzo del Vescovado, the baptistery of San Giovanni in Fonte and the Church of Sant’Elena, which together with a library are part of an articulated architectural complex.
Deciding what to do in Verona in 2 days has never been so easy!
18) Museum of frescoes
This is the last chapter of our magnificent itinerary! In fact, you can easily visit the Museum of frescoes when you are on your way back home to the train station. If you’re a fan, you can’t miss it!
Amongst the works of art, sculptures and medieval frescoes originally belonging to the churches and houses of Verona, this place will enrapture your heart.
And rightly so, in keeping with the genius of Shakespeare, you can also see Juliet’s tomb here.
The best things to do in Verona in two days:
The itinerary I have described is definitely the best way to see Verona in an organised and uncluttered way… So you can really say you have visited this great city!
But it’s not over yet, I think there are many other things worth seeing, if you have time and you are curious to get to know the lesser-known corners, places and fall definitively in love with this city… You will spend two incredible days in Verona, I promise you!
1) Scalone XVI October
You may be wondering what to do in Verona in two days to fully immerse yourself in the culture of the place, and I answer you: how can you not admire the view that only via Scalone XVI October can offer you?! Let’s see what we are talking about…
In the heart of the Veronetta district, the Scalone is famous for its 105 stone steps of pure beauty that take you to the Alto San Nazaro park, the ideal place to take a break and have a picnic, all in absolute tranquillity.
2) Well of Love
Verona is the city of love, so don’t be shocked if I say that this place is famous not only for the story of Romeo and Juliet but also for many others.
A stone’s throw from Piazza delle Erbe, the Well of Love bears witness to the story of Corrado di San Bonifazio and Isabella Donati in a tale of tormented love…
Corrado, madly in love with Isabella, who apparently did not reciprocate his feelings, decided to throw himself into the well after a challenge from the girl. In disbelief at what Corrado did and recognising his love for her, Isabella decided to jump in too. This is the story of the two young people.
Today, tourists from all over the world throw coins into the Well of Love in the hope of finding true love in their lives.
3) Molina Waterfall Park
If you need to unplug and take a moment of well-deserved relaxation, I absolutely recommend a visit to the Molina Waterfall Park, where you can regenerate both mentally and physically.
Easily accessible by car or bus, the park is ideal for family excursions with children, but also for more adventurous excursions on your own.
This magnificent place will offer you the chance to admire several incredible waterfalls generated by the watercourses and a great biodiversity of plants, all in an oasis that offers peace of mind.
4) Piazzetta Pescheria
One of the most evocative places to see in Verona is the Piazzetta Pescheria. I advise you to visit this square, a place with a special atmosphere reminiscent of the past.
In fact, before 1970 this square housed the fish market. I suggest you to have a look at the wonderful building where now there is a supermarket, once it was the place where the fish was brought and then distributed all over Verona!
I hope you are enjoying your guide on what to do in Verona in 2 days… Continue reading then!
5) La Fontanina osteria
The last place I want to talk about is La Fontanina, one of the best and one of the oldest taverns in the whole of Verona, which you can visit without taking time away from the other attractions.
I’m sure you will think that this is not a place to “visit”, but I suggest you absolutely add it to the list of the best things to do in Verona in 2 days!
In fact, before entering, you will be immediately greeted by the green bushes that cover everything, including tables and walls.
On the way to the bathroom, on the other hand, you can admire the many antiques, paintings and mirrors in an atmosphere reminiscent of a court dinner. Although the prices of the dishes are high, I assure you that they are in line with the experience that the osteria offers!
The most amazing places to see in Verona and surroundings
In Verona 2 days can be enough time to do many activities and enjoy unforgettable experiences!
Right in the vicinity of Verona, Lake Garda presents itself in all its beauty, where you can take a boat trip and try your hand at pike fishing… I can assure you that it will be truly unforgettable!
Nearby you can admire the charm of the Sigurtà Garden Park, one of the most beautiful parks in Europe and not surprisingly the winner of numerous important awards.
But how can we fail to mention the Valpolicella countryside… With visits to the wine cellars of local fine wines such as Amarone, Valpolicella and Recioto della Valpolicella you will be catapulted into an enchanting atmosphere rich in nature and scents that will leave you speechless!
And at this point, why deprive yourself of an incredible experience such as a visit to one of the olive oil mills with its centuries-old olive trees in the ancient lands of Valpolicella?! There are so many opportunities on what to do in Verona in two days, that’s why I’m here to guide you on this trip!
Moreover, visiting Verona to taste the local delicacies is a great choice: from the best cheeses in Italy such as Monte Veronese PDO and Provolone Valpadano PDO, to the typical gastronomic icons of Verona such as Pandoro and polenta. You can also taste Vialone Nano PGI rice, unmistakable for its flavour and used to create exceptional risottos, such as the typical risotto with Tastasal.
The unmissable events, to enjoy the best of Verona!
What to do in Verona in 2 days? Surely two days are not enough if you want to experience the events that this fabulous city has to offer, also because they are many and scattered throughout the year!
Soon, during Valentine’s weekend, there will be Verona in Love, an event when the whole of Verona is transformed, illuminated in red. During this period there will be many love-themed markets. There will be opportunities to strengthen the couple’s bond, for example by participating in the traditional half marathon for two.
Did you know that during this event, in 2020, a couple was fortunately drawn to spend a night inside Juliet’s House? Lucky them!
In April, on the other hand, you can’t miss Vinitaly! This event is famous all over the world and is a way for wine lovers to taste hundreds of local but also international wines. A unique opportunity that you cannot miss if you are interested in wine…
In addition, from May to October you will have the opportunity to attend dozens of concerts in the Verona Arena, and I assure you that there is something for everyone!
Last but not least is Tocatì, held in mid-September. Also known as the “International Festival of Street Games”, Tocatì consists of a series of games held in different parts of the city, in which anyone who wants can decide to participate.
An excellent opportunity to share moments of pure fun with your family or partner, if you don’t know what to do in Verona in two days!
Getting to and around the city
As we have already said several times, getting around Verona is extremely easy and you can see all the most important things to do in Verona on foot. But what are the ways to get around the city?
Train, car, bus and plane – these are the options. If you are relatively close to Verona, you can go by car or bus as it is very well connected thanks to the various motorways.
If you are coming from the south, you may need to take a plane and get off at Valerio Catullo airport. Verona is only 12 kilometres away and can be easily reached by shuttle bus.
However, the option that I personally think is better and more consistent with the itinerary I have prepared for you is to take the train and get off at Porta Nuova train station, which is a few minutes’ walk from the historic centre.
My guide on the best things to do in Verona in two days has come to an end… I sincerely hope that you’ve fallen in love with this incredible city. To fall in love with it completely, you need to apply theory to practice by immersing yourself in its alleys… What are you waiting for to leave for the City of Love? ❤
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