24 Hours in Verona | Your Short Guide

Verona has to be one of my favourite European cities. There is just something magical about this historical city, renowned as the City of Love. If you have just 24 hours in Verona you can easily squeeze in all of the main sights and have the opportunity to indulge yourself the Italian way. Here is all you need to know to get the most out of your short visit. Enjoy!

24 Hours in Verona | Your Short Guide

Getting There

Travelling to Verona is really straight forward. From the UK, direct flights run frequently from all the major airports. The flight time is about 2 hours and is operated by a variety of different airlines. Once you touch down in Italy, the main airport is about 12Km from the city centre. You can either catch the 199 Airline Shuttle Bus which runs every 20 minutes (cost: € 7.00) or catch a taxi (cost: € 25.00 or so).

If you are in Europe, Verona is in an excellent location. Trains frequently run here direct from Rome, Milan and Zurich and the costs change dependent on the journey. The Porta Nuova station is in a centralised location too, so it won’t be far to get to your hotel.

Where to Stay

Verona is relatively compact and so where you stay is not much of an issue. I love staying in the Old Town; it means that you are close to all the main sights and the restaurants are just fantastic. On our last visit, we stayed at Hotel Firenze, which was a perfect base for exploring. The buffet was also excellent and it was a good price.

Here are a few suggestions of where to stay based upon what you are looking for.

Where to Eat

I can honestly say that some of the best Italian food I have eaten has been in Verona. There is no shortage of authentic, fresh food and you’ll find that the prices are reasonable too. As always, try to avoid the classic tourist traps in the squares. Some of the best food we ate was actually quite off the beaten track.

For pizza, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Whilst it may not have the prestige of Naples, Verona still has some incredible places to try out. We loved Pizzeria Bella Napoli, where you could get fresh pizza served in metres! For more authentic experiences, Pizzeria da Salvatore (the oldest pizzeria in Verona) serves amazing pizza and is something not to miss.

Here are some other dishes that you need to try in Verona. All of these are local to the region and are incredibly tasty.

Potato Gnocchi originally came from Verona and has to be a must-try. Enjoy it served in a tomato sauce, or even gorgonzola cheese!

Risotto comes in two major local variations in Verona. The tastasal is served with minced pork and is then salted and peppered. Alternatively, you could try all’Amarone; where the risotto is mixed with marone della Valpolicella (a red wine) and cheese to give a stunning pink colour.

Polenta is a popular dish which can be served with pretty much everything; cheese, meats… You name it!

Pandoro is the famous festive dessert of Italy and originated in Verona. It is a simple cake-like dish, but is extremely delicious.

What to do with 24 Hours in Verona

There are plenty of sights to see in Verona and most of them are within walking distance. Here is my list of the top ones to see.

Arena di Verona

Found on the stunning Piazza Brà, the Arena di Verona is one of the most impressive structures in Italy. This arena dates back to the Romans and is what the grand Colosseum in Rome was based upon. I loved walking around the tunnels here and climbing up the stairs. The arena also hosts multiple shows each year, with different famous artists and orchestras taking to the stage.

Juliet’s Balcony (Casa di Giulietta)

Verona is where Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet is based, hence why the city is associated with romance. Whilst the characters of Romeo and Juliet likely did not exist, the city has a house dedicated to the Juliet’s family, including the famous balcony. Beneath the balcony is a brass statue of Juliet, which is a prime tourist selfie location.

Piazza delle Erbe

This square can be considered the vibrant heart of Verona, surrounded by historic buildings, and bustling with life. You’ll be greeted by colourful façades, medieval architecture, plenty of cafes and a lively market that sells everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. At its centre stands the Torre dei Lamberti (more on that below).

Torre dei Lamberti

The Torre dei Lamberti is a large (84m) tower found in the heart of Verona that dates back to the late 12th century. It has a fascinating history and is a landmark of Verona. For just € 6.00 you can climb the gorgeous spiral staircase that leads up to some of the best views in the city.

Ponte Scaligero/ Ponte di Castel Vecchio

The Ponte Scaligero is a fortified bridge in the Old Town of Verona. As it was destroyed in the 18th Century, what you see is actually a reconstruction under 100 years old. However, it is one of the most scenic places in the city, especially at sunset. The Castelvecchio nearby is also well worth a visit. This medieval castle is the most important military construction of the Scaliger dynasty who once ruled Verona. Nowadays the castle houses a varied art collection as well as the local officer’s club.

Piazzale Castel San Pietro

The best view in Verona can be found on top of the Piazzale Castel San Pietro. This street is on top of the hill across the river from the Old Town. Whilst it is a bit of a trek to get up to the top, the views really are spectacular.

Verona Cathedral

Also known as Cattedrale di Santa Maria Matricolare, Verona’s cathedral is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. Built in the 12th century, the cathedral features intricate stonework, beautiful frescoes, and a majestic interior with a peaceful atmosphere. I would definitely recommend a trip down into the crypt, and for more views, climb the bell tower.

Ponte Pietra

This ancient Roman bridge, completed in around 100 BC, is the oldest bridge in Verona. Naturally this has to be added to things to see, plus it is another wonderful spot for enjoying the views of the city and the riverside.

Giardino Giusti

Giardino Giusti is a serene Renaissance garden located in Verona, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city. You’ll find meticulously maintained terraces, fountains, and lush greenery and can spend time exploring its winding pathways. The gardens also offer yet more tunning views of Verona from many of its elevated viewpoints.

Final Thoughts | 24 Hours in Verona

24 hours in Verona is just the right amount of time to see all the sights. However, if you want to take in more of the scenery and visit some of the nearby towns and places (such as the beautiful Borghetto or Lake Garda), then I would recommend at least 72 hours in this charming city.