Top Things to Do in Verona: Walk in the Footsteps of Romeo and Juliet

Verona is a city where history, romance, and vibrant culture intertwine. Best known as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, this UNESCO World Heritage city offers far more than literary fame. Whether you’re strolling through its ancient streets or sipping espresso in a sunlit piazza, the city offers plenty to discover. Sherry and I flew into Verona for four lovely days and here you will find details of the best things to experience Verona’s timeless magic!

PSA 🍹: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, we might earn a small commission—just enough to fund our next Aperol Spritz (or two). No extra cost to you, just good vibes and better drinks. Cheers to that! 🍸💃

The Verona Arena, or Arena di Verona, is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world and a must-see for anyone visiting northern Italy. Built in the 1st century AD, this iconic monument once hosted gladiator battles and public spectacles, pre-dating the Colosseum. Today, it continues to dazzle audiences with open-air operas and concerts. On the first Sunday of every month from November to March, entrance is just €1!

The entrance fee to Verona Arena is included when purchasing the Verona Card. It also lets you ride buses in the city for free. If you’re visiting in summer, you can book tickets to experience opera under the stars. Even without the buzz of a live performance, exploring the Verona Arena is an unforgettable experience. Sherry and I climbed to the top to observe sweeping views over Piazza Bra and the rooftops of Verona. It’s a great photo opportunity and a peaceful moment above the busy city.

No trip to Verona is complete without a stop at Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta)—one of the city’s most iconic and romantic spots. Tucked away in a small courtyard just off Via Cappello, this 13th-century building draws lovers and literary fans from around the world. The Verona Card will grant access to the museum (make sure to book times in advance) featuring period costumes and Renaissance furniture, and be able to stand on the balcony.

Visitors can freely enter the courtyard and stand beneath the legendary balcony that inspired Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. A copy of Juliet’s bronze statue now stands in the courtyard, while the original was moved in 2014. Many visitors flock to the statue and touch her right breast—a long-standing tradition believed to bring luck in love. Although the area often gets crowded, seeing the balcony firsthand enhances Verona’s romantic charm.

Just a short journey from the historic streets of Verona, Lake Garda invites you into a world of serene beauty, colourful villages, and laid-back lakeside life. Whether you’re strolling along waterfront promenades, tasting local wines, or simply relaxing with gelato by the shore, Lake Garda is the perfect place to experience a different side of northern Italy. With its crystal-clear waters, gentle breezes, and postcard-worthy landscapes, this easy escape from Verona captures the timeless charm that makes the region so special.

We spent 2 days in Lake Garda, staying in a hotel right on the lake front. With a scenic hike on the Ponale Trail, it was the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. We even dropped by a winery on the drive back to Verona to sample the wine from the region. Check out our detailed post on the top things to do in Lake Garda and see why you should add it to your Verona itinerary!

If you’re a food lover visiting Italy, taking a gelato-making class is one of the sweetest and most satisfying experiences you can have. Guided by local experts, you’ll learn the secrets behind creating authentic Italian gelato from scratch—choosing fresh ingredients, blending flavours, and churning it to creamy perfection. These hands-on workshops are not only fun, but they also give you insight into the history and science of gelato, Italy’s most beloved dessert.

A trip to Italy is never complete without having a few scoops of gelato, even in winter! We love gelato, and definitely had fun making it. For a unique afternoon activity, we adorned our aprons and made three flavours in two hours. Much needed sugar boost before the walk up the stairway to the panoramic views that Castel San Pietro has on offer.

Perched high above the Adige River, Castel San Pietro offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in all of Verona. While the fortress itself is not open to the public, the climb is well worth the effort for the stunning overlook alone. There is also a furnicular for those that want it. From the top, you can see the city’s winding streets, terracotta rooftops, and the ancient Roman theatre nestled just below.

This was a peaceful escape from the crowds of the historic center and the perfect spot to catch a golden Verona sunset. Once nightfall, the glistening city lights set for a romantic backdrop and intimate photos. Afterward, we settled on the outdoor terrace of Re Teodorico for some Aperol Spritz. The atmosphere is elegant, yet laid-back, and it’s the perfect spot to unwind before taking the trek back toward the city below.

Verona is a city that invites you to slow down, soak in the beauty, and uncover stories both real and imagined. From Shakespearean nostalgia to lakeside escapes and hilltop views, Verona offers many unforgettable experiences. So let Verona capture your heart, just as it has done for centuries in literature.