With so much to do in Verona, it can be difficult to decide how to spend your time wisely. The key to enjoying the perfect 24 hours in Verona is a well-balanced itinerary.
From exploring iconic landmarks to savoring the local cuisine, this guide is the only one you will need to make sure you get the most out of your 24 hours in Verona.
Tried and tested by us, we are confident that you will have the best day ever if you follow this!
First Of All: Is The Verona Card Worth It?
If you have been researching “24 hours in Verona”, there stands a good chance you have come across something called the “Verona Card”.
The Verona Card proves its worth by allowing access to the city’s key attractions for free or at a discounted rate.
It grants free entry to sites (only once) like Casa di Giulietta and Torre dei Lamberti while skipping long ticket lines. For just € 20 for 24 hours, this is entirely worth it if you use it alongside our guide. You will also benefit from discounted rates for guided tours, and the Verona Tourist Train.
You will also get free use of public transportation, allowing a convenient way to navigate Verona if you do decide to veer off the path.
The Verona Card is most effective if you plan to visit multiple attractions in a day, as its practical benefits make it a valuable choice for efficient sightseeing and enjoying more of Verona’s offerings without hassle.
However, if you are visiting Verona on the first Sunday of the month (October-May), all public museums are only €1 each to enter. This would mean the Verona card may not be a wise way to spend your money. If you are visiting on the first Sunday of the month, make sure to book online for any attraction you want to visit as everyone wants to take advantage of this discount!
24 Hours In Verona Itinerary
Morning: Explore History and Romance
Kick off your day in Verona with a delightful Italian breakfast at a local café. Indulge in a spread of freshly baked pastries, accompanied by a steaming cup of espresso, and if you’re in the mood, treat yourself to a creamy cappuccino.
Next, step into the world of Casa di Giulietta, famously known as Juliet’s House.
Wander through the bustling courtyard, where the air is filled with a sense of timeless romance.
Take a moment to gaze up at the iconic balcony, the very emblem of undying love. It is based within a museum, which is open to the public. Enjoy the several exhibitions before having the opportunity to stand on the famous balcony yourself.
If you are accompanied by your better half, a must for your 24 hours in Verona is to purchase a padlock from the onsite gift shop.
Here, you can write your initials on this, and padlock it to the gate within the courtyard as a sign of your love lasting forever.
And don’t forget to join the tradition – give a gentle rub to the bronze statue of Juliet, a ritual believed to bestow good luck in matters of the heart!
As the morning unfolds, make the short walk to the Torre dei Lamberti. This iconic tower offers a panoramic perspective of Verona’s beauty. A leisurely climb or an elevator ride takes you to the top, where stunning views of the city’s historic architecture and surrounding landscapes await, making the ascent truly worthwhile.
Afternoon: Comfort Food and Scenic Views
After a satisfying morning of exploration, it’s time to refuel with a lunch from one of the food vendor stalls strewn throughout the city. Take a culinary journey through Verona’s streets and enjoy the flavors of local street food offerings such as panini, fries, or a classic slice of pizza.
Post-lunch, take a stroll through Citta Antica, where you can explore charming shops and perhaps pick up some souvenirs to remember your Verona visit. Lined with colorful buildings, this area is the perfect place to stop and take a few photos of your 24 hours in Verona.
If shopping isn’t your thing- this would be a great time to make the most of your Verona Card discounts and take a trip on the Verona Tourist Train. Leaving from Piazza Bra every hour, this is the ideal activity if you want to sit back and relax, whilst also seeing the city and not wasting precious time.
However you choose to spend these couple of hours is entirely up to you, but the adventure doesn’t stop here.
Make your way to Castel San Pietro, perched on a hilltop overlooking the city. This historic castle promises breathtaking panoramic views of Verona’s beautiful town.
For those up for a little exercise, a hike to the castle is rewarding, or you can opt for a more leisurely ascent via the funicular railway.
Once at the summit, take a moment to capture the stunning landscapes that stretch across the city and its surroundings, reminding you of the beauty that Verona holds from every angle.
Evening: Dining, Opera, and Nightcap
After a day of wandering the streets of Verona, return to your accommodation for a moment of relaxation and refreshment before the evening unfolds. Choosing accommodation close to the central areas of Verona is vital for this itinerary, as it will save valuable time that would have been spent commuting in and out of the city.
As the sun begins to set, make your way to Piazza Bra, the central square of Verona. This vibrant hub offers a variety of charming restaurants, each with its unique atmosphere. Treat yourself to a relaxing meal whilst in this area, enjoying that art that is traditional Italian cuisine, complemented by local wines that heighten the dining experience.
The highlight of your evening awaits at the Verona Arena – this time get lost in the beauty of an opera performance.
The colossal amphitheater’s open-air setting adds an extra bit of “wow factor” to the experience, ensuring an unforgettable night under the stars. Remember to secure your tickets in advance to ensure you don’t miss out on this remarkable cultural event.
Following the opera’s final note, wind down your day with a soothing nightcap at a cozy bar or café nestled near Piazza Bra. Don’t forget to seize the opportunity to savor Verona’s renowned wines, which hold a piece of the city’s rich culture.
As you unwind, take a moment to reflect on the day’s adventures while enjoying the serene ambiance of the city by night: the perfect end to your 24 hours in Verona.
Where To Stay For 24 Hours In Verona
If you only have 24 hours in Verona, it is a good idea to plan your accommodation carefully. To help with this, we have picked out the best areas to stay in.
This will save you time having to make your way in and out of the city, it provides you with a good base if the weather should turn and a change of clothes is needed, and it also means you won’t need to worry about taxi or bus costs to get yourself back at night.
First choice: Citta Antica
This UNESCO World Heritage site is the heart of Verona and the home to all the main attractions. This makes it our first choice of places to stay as everything you need is right around the corner.
If you are planning to explore late into the evening to soak up the Italian atmosphere, there is no better choice. And with so many accommodation options in the area, it is a no-brainer!
Second Choice: San Zeno
The district of San Zeno sits just northwest of, but only a short commute to and from, Citta Antica.
San Zeno is the best option for those who are on a tight budget. Accommodation in this area will be much less than in the historic center of Verona, and San Zeno still has great eateries and places to unwind after a day of exploring.
Third Choice: Borgo Trento
Just across the river from Citta Antica is the beautiful residential suburb of Borgo Trento.
This area will be best suited for those not on a strict budget, and wanting a quiet stay, as most of the accommodation in this area is holiday lets of private homes. Though it is not directly in the center of Verona, it is not ideal for those on a budget as the prices will be more than you expect!
Still, it is a break away from your vacation, with locally owned shops and restaurants lining the streets.
Where Can You Visit For The Day From Verona?
If you are lucky enough to have more than 24 hours in Verona but wish to venture out to the surrounding areas, here are some of the best places you can visit.
Venice
Visiting Venice from Verona is incredibly straightforward. Verona’s central location and efficient transportation options, like the train, make it easy to head off on a day trip to the enchanting canals and historic architecture of Venice.
The high-speed train journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, offering a comfortable and scenic ride between the two cities. This proximity allows you to experience the contrasting beauty of both Verona and Venice in a single day, making it a popular excursion for travelers.
Lake Garda
Exploring Lake Garda from Verona is a popular, picturesque excursion, whilst also being very convenient.
Lake Garda’s tranquil waters and charming lakeside towns like Sirmione are easily accessible to those visiting Verona. Travelers can reach the lake by car or public transport, in 30 to 60 minutes. The stunning scenery, extensive water activities, and cultural sites around the lake make it a brilliant day trip option for those seeking a serene escape from the city of Verona.
Bergamo
Heading further inland, the charming medieval town of Bergamo is easily accessible to those coming from Verona.
Only 1.5-2 hours by train or car, the relatively short distance between the two cities allows for an enjoyable day trip and is an achievable excursion for those wanting to explore more of Italy. Bergamo’s ancient upper town and the modern lower town have something for everyone and is the ideal day trip from Verona.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 24 hours in Verona enough?
Truthfully, no. 24 hours in Verona is not enough just due to how much there is to see in such a compact city.
While you can touch on the major attractions we have mentioned today, you’ll miss out on fully immersing yourself in the history and ambiance that this city has to offer. It’s considers one of the best cities in Italy to live in.
To truly appreciate Verona’s charm, consider extending your stay to 2-3 days to allow yourself to see everything you can.
Is Verona expensive?
Verona can be moderately expensive, however this will depend on your dining preferences, and which activities you choose to do.
While most attractions are budget-friendly, others might require a higher expense. To enjoy Verona without breaking the bank, opt for local eateries, consider a Verona Card for attraction discounts, and plan. Overall, being mindful of spending choices can help you navigate Verona within your budget.
Do you need a car to get around Verona?
A car isn’t necessary to explore Verona. The city is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with major attractions within walking distance of each other.
Public transportation, including buses, is efficient and covers wider areas. However, if you plan to explore the surrounding countryside or nearby towns, a car might be useful. For urban exploration, relying on walking and public transport is convenient and definitely the more practical option.
Is it easy to get to Verona?
Reaching Verona is hassle-free due to its excellent accessibility options.
Verona Airport offers connections to numerous international destinations, making Verona the ideal first stop on anyone’s Italian adventure.
The prominent Verona Porta Nuova train station provides extensive links to major Italian cities, including Milan and Venice, ensuring seamless rail journeys.
In addition, the well-structured local highway network, particularly the A4, enhances the ease of road travel, enabling smooth access to Verona from nearby regions.
