Verona holidays

How to reach Verona

Flight time: Direct flights to Verona from London and other major UK airports take between 2 hours and 2 hours 45 minutes. This easy accessibility makes it a great destination for both short city breaks and longer holidays.

Transfer time: Verona’s Valerio Catullo Airport and city centre are well connected. From the airport catch the Aerobus 199, which runs every 20 minutes or so. It will drop you at the Porta Nuova train station in around 15 minutes.

Price: The Aerobus costs around €6 for a one-way ticket. A taxi from the airport to the city centre typically costs €20–€25, depending on the time of day and traffic.

Weather and best time to visit Verona

When planning your holiday to Verona, it’s a good idea to consider the type of experience you’ll enjoy most, whether that’s warm summer nights at the open-air opera, or having the city’s historic sites and winding streets practically to yourself.

April to June is a wonderful time to visit, with mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Spring is ideal for exploring Verona’s outdoor attractions, with gardens in bloom and fewer tourists. Rainfall is moderate, and you’ll enjoy around 10 hours of daily sunshine.

July to August is Verona’s high season, with plenty of sunshine and temperatures often reaching 30°C or more. This is the best time for enjoying outdoor opera at the Verona Arena, but be prepared for higher crowds and prices.

September to November offers cooler temperatures, from 25°C in September to around 10°C in November, making it a good time for sightseeing. The autumn months also bring local wine festivals and harvest celebrations.

December to March sees fewer tourists, making it perfect for a quieter visit. Winter temperatures range from 0°C to 10°C, but despite the shorter days and higher rainfall levels, Verona’s festive atmosphere and Christmas markets make it an appealing off-peak choice.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Italian is the official language, but you'll find that many people speak good English, especially in tourist areas. Having a few basic Italian phrases is always advisable though, and can really enhance your experience with the locals.

• Local habits and customs: Veronese people are known for their warmth and hospitality. Embrace the leisurely pace of life, including the tradition of aperitivo – enjoying a pre-dinner drink and snacks.

• Currency: Italy uses the Euro. Although ATMs are widely available and credit cards are commonly accepted, it’s wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

• Getting around: Verona has an efficient public transport system that includes buses and trains. For occasional bus travel your best option is a 60-minute ticket. This costs €1.10 when purchased at ticket offices and applies to the whole urban network for an hour. Alternatively, an all-day city-wide bus ticket costs around €3.50. Taxis are also available but agree on the fare in advance to avoid surprises.

• Electricity and plug types: Italy uses a 220V system, and sockets accept type C, F and L plugs. UK travellers will need a suitable adaptor.

• Time zone: Verona is on Central European Time, which is 1 hour ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in Verona

Verona is a city steeped in history, romance and culture. From ancient ruins to stunning architecture, here’s the best of what holidays to Verona can offer:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Piazzale Castel San Pietro (Medieval Fortress of Saint Peter): Climb the steps or take the funicular up to this viewpoint for stunning views over Verona, the meandering Adige River and surrounding hills.

• Torre dei Lamberti (Lamberti Tower): This medieval bell tower in Piazza delle Erbe offers panoramic views of the city. Climb the 368 steps, or let the transparent lift whisk you up most of the way.

• Giardino Giusti (Giusti Gardens): Considered to be one of the finest examples of a classic Italian garden, these Renaissance-period gardens offer a peaceful escape from Verona’s bustling streets.

The best districts

• Centro Storico (Historic Centre): Verona’s historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with Roman ruins, medieval buildings and charming piazzas. It’s perfect for leisurely strolls.

• San Zeno: This district is home to the beautiful Basilica of San Zeno and offers a more authentic, local experience. Take your time exploring its quiet streets and cafés.

• Veronetta: Known for its vibrant student population and bohemian vibe, Veronetta is full of trendy bars, art galleries and cultural spots.

Historical monuments

• Arena di Verona (Verona Arena): This Roman amphitheatre is one of the best-preserved ancient structures in Italy. It’s famous for its summer opera season, where you can enjoy performances in a spectacular setting under the stars.

• Casa di Giulietta (Juliet’s House): Visit the legendary balcony and statue of Juliet, inspired by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. It’s a tourist favourite, and a must-see for fans of the play.

• Piazza delle Erbe: During Roman times this lively square was the town’s forum. Today it’s still a central meeting point surrounded by beautiful buildings, cafés and market stalls.

• Castelvecchio (Old Castle): This 14th-century castle and museum offer a fascinating glimpse into Verona’s history, with medieval architecture and impressive art collections.

Day trips in the area

• Lake Garda: Just a short train ride from Verona, Lake Garda offers stunning scenery and a scattering of charming lakeside towns like Sirmione and Bardolino. Check out our deals on holidays to Lake Garda and discover what the region has to offer.

• Venice: Only an hour by train, a day trip to Venice is a must. Explore the canals, St Mark’s Basilica and the historic Piazza San Marco. Don't miss the best deals on holidays to Venice, updated every week on lastminute.com.

• Valpolicella: This wine region just north of Verona is famous for its Amarone and Valpolicella wines. Enjoy vineyard tours and tastings in this beautiful countryside.

• Mantua: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Mantua is known for its Renaissance architecture, art and the stunning Palazzo Ducale (Doge’s Palace).

Activities for families in Verona

Verona is a fantastic destination for families, offering a mix of cultural experiences and fun activities for all ages.

• Gardaland: Italy’s largest amusement park is located near Lake Garda and offers rides, shows and attractions for youngsters and the young at heart.

• Parco Natura Viva: This safari park and zoo is located in Bussolengo, near Verona. It’s home to a variety of animals and offers educational programmes for kids.

• MUSE Science Museum: Located a little further afield in Trento, this interactive museum offers engaging exhibits and activities for children and adults.

• Verona’s Roman Theatre: Not to be confused with the Roman Amphitheatre, this smaller but no less impressive ancient site is perfect for exploring with the whole family. Afterwards, head to the nearby Archaeological Museum for a further glimpse into the city’s Roman past.

Free things to do in Verona

Exploring Verona doesn’t have to be expensive. We’ve rounded up a selection of fantastic free activities to enjoy:

• Historic centre: Wander through the narrow streets of Verona’s historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and soak up the atmosphere.

• Piazza delle Erbe: Visit this lively square where you can admire the architecture, people-watch and browse the goods on offer at its vibrant market.

• Ponte Pietra (Stone Bridge): Walk across this ancient Roman bridge, which offers beautiful views of the Adige River and city beyond.

• San Zeno Basilica (Basilica of Saint Zeno): This stunning Romanesque church is free to enter and showcases some beautiful art and architecture.

• Verona’s parks: Enjoy a relaxing stroll in one of Verona’s many parks, such as Parco delle Colombare or Giusti Gardens.

Nature and outdoor activities in Verona

Nestled in the heart of Italy’s lush northern landscape, Verona’s natural surroundings make it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Hiking in Lessinia: Situated just north of Verona, the Lessinia Regional Park offers various hiking trails accompanied by beautiful views of mountains and valleys.

• Lake Garda: Enjoy water sports such as sailing, windsurfing and kayaking on Italy’s largest lake, just a short trip from Verona.

• Monte Baldo: Take a cable car from Malcesine to the top of Monte Baldo for stunning views and a range of hiking trails. In the winter, you can also enjoy skiing and snowboarding.

Local dishes in Verona

One of the great delights of Verona holidays is getting to indulge in the local culinary delights that make this city a true foodie haven.

Some typical dishes

• Risotto all’Amarone: A rich and flavourful risotto made with Amarone wine, which provides its deep, distinctive flavour.

• Bigoli con le Sarde: Thick spaghetti-like pasta served with a savoury sardine sauce – a true taste of traditional Veronese cuisine.

Meat dishes

• Pastissada de Caval: A slow-cooked horse meat stew, marinated in wine and spices. This local speciality dates back to ancient times.

• Brasato all’Amarone: Beef braised in Amarone wine until tender, often served with polenta or mashed potatoes.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Sarde in Saor: Sardines marinated in vinegar, onions and raisins to create a sweet and tangy flavour that’s popular in the Veneto region.

• Baccalà alla Vicentina: Salt cod slow-cooked with onions, anchovies and milk, usually served with polenta.

Street food

• Panzerotti: Fried dough pockets filled with tomato and mozzarella. Enjoy this delicious and convenient snack while exploring the city.

• Sfogliatine di Villafranca: Flaky pastries filled with a sweet custard cream – perfect for a quick bite on the go.

Sweets and desserts

• Pandoro: This tall, star-shaped cake is a Christmas favourite, often dusted with powdered sugar. However, its light and airy texture makes it a perfect treat at any time of year.

• Torta Russa: A rich, almond-flavoured cake that combines a crispy outer layer with a soft, moist interior. Best enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee.

• Baci di Giulietta: Translating to “kisses of Juliet”, these chocolate and hazelnut biscuits are inspired by Verona’s most famous love story.

Local drinks

• Amarone della Valpolicella: A robust red wine with intense flavours of dried fruit and spices. Best paired with hearty dishes.

• Spritz: A refreshing cocktail that mixes Aperol or Campari with prosecco and soda water. Enjoy as a leisurely aperitivo after a long day spent exploring the city.