free walking tour verona italiano

Free Walking Tour Verona Bergamo

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• Origin of the name Verona
• The gates of the Brà
• Piazza Brà and the fountain
• The urban structure of the city
• Gavi's arch
• Porta Borsari
• The Melegatti factory
• The column with the Lion of San Marco
• Madonna Verona
• The "Berlina"
• The arch of the rib
• Lamberti's Tower
• Cangrande's Palace
• De Fracastoro's "Bala"
• Santa Maria Antica's church
• Ponte Pietra (Stone Bridge)

Free Tour Verona

Free tour bergamo.

The ultimate free walking tour of Verona, Italy

Verona felt like a breath of fresh air. We were desperately seeking a destination in Italy that wasn't sighing under the enormous pressure of tourism. As an alternative to touristy and overcrowded but undoubtably romantic Venice, we settled upon Verona. Equally romantic in nature -it is the birthplace of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet after all- but far less crowded, Verona city is (luckily) a clearly underrated destination. Verona is a welcome sip of pure, easygoing Italy!

Our short stint in Verona lasted 2 nights and was an ideal romantic getaway in March. If you have plans to visit Italy and are not sure if you should include Verona in your itinerary, we're here to convinence you with some dazzling photography of Verona's city center. The best way for us to observe Verona was with our cameras in hand; wandering those quaint and winding streets, and admiring its romantic balconies (which seem to be everywhere apparently). It was only fitting then, that we share with you our Verona photo diary and our recommendation on things to do in Verona, Italy.

About the ultimate Free Walking Tour of Verona

As one of the most romantic cities of Europe, Verona old town just screams for romantic strolls. With this self-guided free walking tour of Verona, we’re sharing all of our secrets about the best things to do in Verona.

Our Verona walking tour is about 6,5 KM (about 4 miles) long , depending on your walking speed and on which optional detours you choose to explore. We recommend allowing yourself at least xx hours to complete the walking tour, but you can easily spend a full day if you include time for lunch, drinks, wander the colorful streets in Verona and include plenty of stops along the way to appreciate Verona's history and culture.

Travel Tip: To make your exploring easier, we’ve created a Google Map of the free walking tour Verona that you can download to your phone and use offline while you’re in Verona! We recommend bookmarking this post to refer to along with the map.

Ready to start your Verona walking tour? Here's what to do in Verona in a day on foot!

How to spend a day in Verona: things to do

What can you do in Verona in 1 day? Well, it happens to be plenty! While there are several free things to do in Verona, some attraction may require an entrance fee. In that case, you might want to purchase the Verona Card that offers reductions on plenty of them, before heading out. This free walking tour of Verona is perfect for anyone spending a weekend in Verona or planning a Verona day trip from nearby destinations like Venice or Lake Garda.

1. THE STUNNING VERONA ARENA

Start your tour at the iconic Verona Arena in Città Antica. The Verona Arena sits adjacent to Piazza Bra, one of Verona's main squares. This is one of the best preserved Roman ampitheaters and it is still in use today. In ancient times, nearly 30.000 people were able to witness the famous shows and games held there. Nowadays the Verona arena has featured many of world's most notable opera singers.

If you enjoy the opera, a night out might be the perfect occasion to enjoy the Verona arena. To us however, the permanent setup of the opera stage de-romanticized the site a bit. We never visited any other arena before and the sight must have been spectacular were it not for a huge stage and 15.000 folded chairs that are semi-permanently installed.

Though the setup might obstruct the view a bit, visiting the Verona arena is one of the top things to in Verona, Italy. You can purchase tickets to tour the inside of the arena or book a ticket to see a Verona opera performance here .

2. HAVE A CAPPUCCINO AT THE LARGEST SQUARE OF VERONA: PIAZZA BRA

What better way to spend your time in Verona than sipping on a cappuccino with spectacular views of the Verona Arena? Though it's the biggest market place in Verona and surrounded by plenty of restaurants and cafés, it's still one of the most tranquil places to visit in Verona, Italy. In March at least 😉. We came here frequently to enjoy the spaciousness of it.

3. JULIET'S HOUSE

Verona is undoubtedly most famous as the scene for Shakespeare’s legendary love story, Romeo and Juliet. While in Verona, try to take a quick peek at the famous balcony of Juliet house but do not sacrifice any more of your precious travel time at this tourist trap. Although it is considered as one of the top things to do in Verona, Italy - it just wasn't my thang .

I'm baffled that thousands of people desire to be crammed into this small square everyday just to see this balcony -which was added on in the 20th century nonetheless- and to have their picture taken with the statue of Juliet. Also, do not waste your precious funds to enter Juliet's House, it is 100% not worth it.

4. PIAZZA DELLE ERBE

Another lavish piazza surrounded by scenic façades and yet another dozen balconies. We couldn't seem to get enough of the views from Piazza delle Erbe and revisited this area numerous times during our time in Verona. If the weather is nice, flat your buttocks in one of the outdoor cafés chairs, order yourself an overpriced Aperol Spritz and amuse yourself people-watching. A must do in Verona!

5. TORRE DEI LAMBERTI

Located right next to Piazza delle Erbe is Torre dei Lamberti; one of the best ways to enjoy 360° Verona city views. The panoramic views over the City of Love's red rooftops are just incredible. The Torre dei Lamberti houses four bells that ring every half our. Visitors ye be warned ;-).

Entry prices include a ride up the elevator to the top (no discount if you want to take the stairs). The tower is open everyday of the year except December 25th. Ticket prices are €8 and the hours of operation are 10 am – 6 pm Monday through Friday and 11 am to 7 pm Saturday and Sunday.

6. MARVEL AT BALCONIES AND COLOURFUL STREETS IN VERONA'S HISTORIC CITY CENTER

The Centro Storico is the historic center of Verona. The atmosphere created by Verona's narrow streets, dreamy balconies with luscious plants and curious corners make it a great place to explore. This is where you will find many of the main sights and what to see in Verona: the many piazzas, Verona's Arena, Torre Dei Lamberti, Juliet’s House and some incredible churches. Brimming with enchanting outdoor eateries, fragrant alleyways of flower shops and bakeries, bars and cute shops, the streets of Verona are a wonderful place to wander around and explore.

7. BASILICA ST ANASTASIA

This beautiful basilica in Gothic style, is located in the most ancient part of the Verona, near the Ponte Pietra. You can opt for a single entrance ticket (€3,00 p.p.) or a cumulative ticket (€6,00 p.p.), the latter providing you access to the Basilica di San Zeno, the Cathedral Complex, the Basilica di Santa Anastasia, and San Fermo.

If you are in possession of the Verona Card , you can use it for free entrance to the Basilica St Anastasia.

8. PONTE PIETRA

Any Verona 1 day itinerary should include a walk over the Ponte Pietra bridge. This is imo the prettiest bridge in the city. Ponte Pietra connects Verona's Città Antica with the Teatro Romano and Castel San Pietro in the Valdonega neighbourhood. When low on cash, this is on of the best free things to do in Verona.

9. CLIMB THE STAIRS TO PIAZZALE CASTEL SAN PIETRO

Now you've crossed into Valdonega neighbourhood, climb up the stairs to Piazzale Castel San Pietro for another great view over Verona's red rooftops. Do note that this is only viewpoint, the castle is currently closed and not open for visitors. If you're looking for a beautiful viewpoint while in Verona for one day, make it this one!

10. TEATRO ROMANO

Unfortunately the beautiful theater wall was not preserved and there seems to be a permanent setup with a stage that obstructed a large part of it. 100% honesty here, I was not super impressed by the Verona Roman Theatre and would not put it on a 'Verona top thing to do' list, instead I would recommend you focus on the onsite museum.

The museum was pretty interesting though so if you're into museums I would definitely recommend you visit the one at the Teatro Romano. We spend about an hour here, admiring the beautiful sculptures, mosaics, fresco's and pottery.

11. PONTE SCALIGERO AND CASTELVECCHIO

From Valdonego you walk along the Adige river into the Borgo Trento neighbourhood, known for Castelvecchio. Castelvecchio is one of those places that we unfortunately missed on our one day in Verona. We included it in our Free Walking Tour Verona simply because other visitors to Verona rave about this place.

The beautiful medieval bridge is one of Verona’s iconic spots that makes it onto every 'What to see in Verona, Italy' list. Castelvecchio will certainty interest the history buffs: a medieval castle turned into a museum. The castle is open daily and tickets cost €7.

12. BASILICA DI SAN ZENO MAGGIORE

The Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore is not of the most popular things to see in Verona but is a nice stop on this walking tour nevertheless. It got its fame as the "Romeo and Juliet" church: the crypt is the location of the wedding in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.

You can buy a ticket that provides entrance to the four major churches in Verona at each church. The major points of interest of San Zeno Maggiore are the incredibly well preserved massive wooden entrance doors, the gorgeous ceiling and the colonnade courtyard.

Map of Verona , Italy: the Verona Walking Tour map

To help you plan your walking tour route, we’ve created a Verona walking tour map with what to see in Verona, Italy in one day. I recommend saving our Verona tourist map to your phone so you can access it offline in Verona, and bookmarking this page to refer to as you go!

This tour is 6,5 KM (about 4 miles) long and can be done in about 4-6 hours, depending on how long you want to stroll the historic streets in Verona. This does not include the time you want to spend exploring the Verona Arena or time inside any of the museums.

Where to stay in Verona

Verona is a pretty small city with almost all must do attractions in Città Antica. This makes Città Antica the best area to stay in Verona. Here's a list of Verona hotels we were looking at for our stay in the City of Love.

Where we stayed: Escalus Luxury Suites Verona , which I can’t recommend enough. We stayed in a boutique luxury apartment suite, a two minute walk from Verona's Arena and Piazza Bra. Definitely the right call, as this is a pretty quiet area at night yet close to shops and restaurants. Definitely one of the best affordable boutique hotels in Verona.

Here are some other Verona hotels we adored:

• Corte Realdi Luxury Rooms : With only 6 rooms, Corte Realdi Verona is an intimate boutique hotel set in a 17th-century building. Located a mere 400 meters (1300 feet) from gorgeous Piazza delle Erbe. 
• Il Relais : this 4 bedroom boutique hotel is set in the 19th-century Palazzo Tommasi in the heart of Verona, opposite the Castelvecchio Castle. A bit further from the Centro Historico but the luxury totally makes up for it!

Relais Balcone di Giulietta ****

Price as from 173€ per night

Located right next to Juliet's balcony and just 400 meters from Via Mazzini in Verona, the hotel offers free WiFi, express check-in, and check-out services. This is the epitome of romance if you're looking for an intimate stay with your other half. Guests can enjoy a hot tub and bicycle rental. The selling point of this hotel is that some rooms have a view of Juliet's balcony!

Vista Palazzo Verona *****

Price as from 930€ per night

The hotel provides 5-star accommodations with a spa center. Ideally situated in the heart of Verona, Vista Palazzo offers air-conditioned rooms, a fitness center, free WiFi, and a shared lounge. With a restaurant, terrace, sauna, and hot tub, the property ensures a luxurious stay. Guests can also enjoy room service and a concierge service.

Hotel Aurora ***

Price as from 175€ per night

Located 150 meters from Juliet's Balcony, Hotel Aurora offers free Wi-Fi and classically furnished rooms with air conditioning, parquet floors, and a satellite LCD TV. The daily buffet breakfast on the city-view terrace is the absolute selling point of this hotel in our opinion. The Verona Arena is just 500 meters away, and Verona Cathedral is an 8-minute walk from the hotel.

Best places to eat in Verona

What to eat in verona.

What is worth your bucks though is Verona's exquisite food. The colourful streets in Verona's city center are the beating gourmet heart of Verona's traditional cuisine and definitely worth the calorie splurge.

Must-try Verona dishes are:

Risotto all’Amarone : the risotto gets its flavor and colour from the region’s most powerful wine: Amarone della Valpolicella. The wine has vibrant red colour and an intense palette with aromas of dried fruits, tobacco, and dried spices.

Bigoli : the signature pasta of the Veneto. A bit thicker than regular pasta and can come with several types of sauces.

Pandoro : a Veronese cake that is popular during the Christmas holiday season (imo tastes great whatever time of the year 🤷‍♀️) .

Where to eat in Verona

Is your mouth already watering thinking about these delicious Italian dishes? Enter Osteria Ponte Pietra : one of the best restaurants in Verona. And I'm not only talking about the food, the views of the Ponte Pietra from their romantic balcony terrace are to die for!

Osteria Ponte Pietra was where we tasted the best Bigoli during our trip. A Verona restaurant with a view and menu that's hard to beat!<

Craving for a tasty antipasti? Click your heals twice and get whisked away to Caffè Monte Baldo , one of the best authentic restaurants in Verona. Popular amongst locals for their incredible spread of appetizers at an incredibly reasonable price, we also credit them for a delicious Risotto all’Amarone. The courses are generous though, we never made it to secondi plati 😋.

Room for desert? Stroll the romantic streets of Verona's historic city center to Gelateria La Romana for the best gelato in Verona. Indulge in the sweet sweet flavours of probably the best gelato you'll ever have 🍦. Or why not try to make it yourself? No better way to shamelessly feast on gelato when attending a cooking class like this one , right?

The best day trips from Verona, Italy

Spending a weekend in Verona or more? Here are some lovely day trips from Verona that you could take!

From Verona to Lake Garda

Did you know for example it only takes slightly more than one hour to go from Verona to Lake Garda ? I mean, you can literally go from the most romantic "Romeo and Juliet" city in Italy, to the most romantic lake in Italy… all in one Verona weekend trip! You can book a private trip to Lake Garda with romantic boat trip from Verona right here .

Verona Wine Tasting

Or what about wine tasting ? The rolling fields surrounding Verona hosts vineyards that produce gallons of ridiculously good wine for you to sip on 🍷. You can book a private wine tasting tour in Soava from Verona here .

So there you have it, our recommendation on best things to do in Verona. Are you ready to strap on your favorite walking shoes and hit the streets of Verona? Which stop on this self-guided free walking tour of Verona are you most excited to visit? Drop us a comment below!

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A little DISAPPOINTED to read such bad reViews on the UK website about Osteria Ponte Pietra:restaurant that you have featured in your artIcLe. Obviously people go On recommendatiOns.

oh no, so sad to read that. We found it very good when there! Though it has been a few years since we’ve been so I can’t vouch for the current situation.

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Seeing the city through the eyes of a local

Free Walking Tour Verona

Every day  at Arco dei Gavi

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Free Walking Tour and More

Want to discover the city?! Want to have fun?!

Dear travellers, welcome to Verona!

With our professional guides, you will be introduced to our lovely Verona “the city of love”! In just two hours you will learn about historical facts and novels of the city.

Book your next spot and start the journey!

WALK Verona - Your Private Tour

Verona is truly the city of the lovers…therefore let the love carry you through the city, let’s imagine to live in those years in which Romeo and Juliet thought for their love. Let’s dive in Verona’s narrow streets and open squares to unveal step by step the political intrigues, the subterfuges and love scandals of the city. Who knows if the love between You and Verona will born!

This tour is Your Tour, specifically designed for those who wish to take a personal and direct contact with the city itself. We want to let you explore and discover the city beauties with our local professional guides.

Click below and find out more about the tour!

EAT Verona - Your Street Food Experience

Everybody knows about Verona wines! Vinitaly fair, Valpolicella, Bardolino, don't they sound familiar to you? Wine tradition here is as old as the city itself, which, they say, was already famous throughout the Roman empire for its canteens. Local people used to organize unforgettable party with the only purpose of eating and drinking. No matter if they were nobles or poors, locals or foreigners, once at the party, they would eat and drink till they faint. If you got here, you should know it well. If not, you will learn. Welcome to the craddle of good wine and food. By joining our EAT Verona - Street Food Tour you will have the opportunity to taste delicious local products while walking through an amazing part of the town, situated apart from the usual tourist attractions.

Looking for tips where to eat?!

Write to [email protected]

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Free Walking Tour of Verona

• 7.40 / 10 605 reviews | 5,624 travellers Guide Carla lovely. Correct explanation, in an acceptable time. Recommendable. 10 Jordi

Stroll down  c harming Medieval streets , marvel at the  Roman amphitheatre  and be enchanted by the  romantic atmosphere of Verona  on this  free walking tour .  

Verona Free Walking Tour Itinerary

On the day of the activity, we'll meet at the meeting point at the indicated time and begin our tour of Verona.

Throughout this tour, we'll discover Verona's most iconic monuments, including the  Arco dei Gavi . This ancient archway was first constructed around the 1st century and acted as an entrance to Verona during the Middle Ages. 

We'll journey back several millennia as we discover Piazza Bra and all it has to offer. Here, we'll see the  Verona Arena , one of the best-preserved  Roman amphitheatres  not just in Italy, but in the world. Admire its façade while your guide reveals some of the events for which it's still used today, before strolling onwards to the lively  Piazza dei Signori and Piazza della Erbe , the oldest square in Verona.

This tour will bring you on an immersive journey through Verona's history, from its origins to the city today, as you pass by the  Medieval castle and bridge known as Castelvecchio  and the Church of Santa Maria Antica . This 12th-century Romanesque temple is home to the ornate Gothic tombs of the Scaliger family , who ruled Verona from the 13th to the late 14th century.

Finally, after between 2 and 2.5 hours, our tour of Verona will come to a close.

• This free tour doesn't admit groups of more than 6 people, even if they book the activity separately. If you're a bigger group, we recommend checking out our Private Tour of Verona instead.
• Please note that, for organisational reasons, the itinerary order of the tour may vary.

More Information

2 hours - 2 hours 30 minutes.

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

English–speaking guide

Not included

When to book.

You can book up until 30 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

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Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Not wheelchair accessible.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.

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Corporate name: MARIA CONCEPCIÓN LÓPEZ SASTRE

Corporate name: De Leonardis Angelo

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Frequently asked questions

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

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A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

A - This activity requires a minimum of 4 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point.

Arco dei Gavi

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Free Tour Verona

Overview of the tour in Verona

Verona is truly the city of the lovers…therefore let the love carry you through the city, let’s imagine to live in those years in which Romeo and Juliet thought for their love. Let’s dive in Verona’s narrow streets and open squares to unveil step by step the political intrigues, the subterfuges and love scandals of the city. Who knows if the love between You and Verona will born! This tour is Free Walking Tour, specifically designed for those who wish to take a personal and direct contact with the city itself. We want to let you explore and discover the city beauties with our local professional guides. The tour lasts about 2h and shows you the main attractions and landmarks of the city: piazza Bra, Juliet's house, piazza Erbe, piazza dei Signori, Arche scaligere, Sant’Anastasia, Corso Borsari, Arco dei Gavi

This activity includes:

• Piazza dei Signori

Arco dei Gavi

• Scaliger Tombs
• Piazza Erbe, 38 Verona
• Basilica di Santa Anastasia
• Gabbia D'Oro

Meeting point

It's 15 minutes walking from the train station. Take Corso Cavour and follow it till the Old Castel (Castelvecchio). Then you will find a small square with an Arch in the middle, that's your Arch.

Free Cancellation

You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.

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The 7 secrets of verona - free tour.

Hi, we are Travel-with-Laia! We are a specialised group of guides passionate about culture and even more about the history. We are a solar, dynamic and young group and we like to share what we learn and transmit our passions through our tours. My favorite quote? Live as if you will die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.

• No minimum number of attendees No minimum number of attendees is required for the tour
• Free booking and cancellation Free payment tour, no set price, booking and cancellation are free
• Accepts electronic payment This tour allows payment by electronic means or credit card

Tour description

Come and discover the city of Verona with us! the most dynamic and fun group of guides in Italy. You will discover the secrets hidden in this wonderful Italian city known as the setting of Romeo and Juliet. Along the route we will pass through the most emblematic sites, you will learn the most fun curiosities and the most important history. Together we will have a wonderful time, do not hesitate to book the tour with us. we wait for you!

What will we visit on this tour?

We will be waiting at the meeting point with a yellow umbrella

• 1 Outside visit Chiesa di San Nicolò all&#39;Arena
• 2 Outside visit Giulietta House
• 3 Outside visit Piazza delle Erbe Show 7 more stops
• 4 Outside visit Romeo&#39;s House
• 5 Outside visit arche scaligere
• 6 Outside visit Santa Maria Antica
• 7 Outside visit Ponte Pietra
• 8 Outside visit Piazza dei Signori
• 9 Outside visit Palazzo della Ragione
• 10 Outside visit Synagogue of Verona

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours do not have a set price , instead, each person gives the guru at the end of the tour the amount that he or she considers appropriate (these usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).

Tour opinions

Tour opinions (605)

La chica muy simpática, el recorido genial y la información ha sigo perfecta. Nos ha gustado mucho

Aceptable. La verdad que el tiempo no acompañó demasiado. Me hubiera gustado poder acercarnos a más lugares.

Who is this tour for?

What should you know, others tours from this guru, others cities to visit after verona, where are you traveling to.

Free Tour Verona is run by professional and certified tour guides . We are extremely passionate about sharing the best sights of our city with visitors.

Our Verona Walking Tour , will take you on a journey through the most interesting areas, exploring romantic alleys and discovering our fascinating and entertaining history.

We take pride in unveiling Verona’s secrets to our visitors with great enthusiasm, and never tire of learning more and more about the place where we live. But we have fun, so we never give boring lectures!

We support the Free Walking Tour movement that has been spreading around the world in recent years. This worldwide movement encourages people to explore cities on foot, discovering the spirit of places, bringing people of different cultures closer together through understanding.

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The Ultimate Self-Guided Walking Tour to the Enchanting Streets of Verona Italy

Verona is one of those cities which I feel like everyone has heard of but few people know anything more about it passed its a famous name. It’s known as the city of love , made famous by William Shakespeare ‘s Romeo and Juliet . Verona serves as the setting for the play about forbidden love. Possibly Shakespeare’s most prolific work. Outside of its theatrical notoriety, the city is an architectural gem in the middle of Italy. It’s small enough that you can easily explore it on foot and see all the must-see sights in one day.

But if you decide to stay a few nights you’ll be treated to one of the most charming towns where you can take more time to dig into the history and secrets of this lovely city. There are lots of amazing museums to explore so don’t be shy about deciding to extend your stay. Verona is also an art lovers’ dream. The city is constantly featuring a revolving door of art exhibitions. There are heritage fairs, food festivals, operas and music galas as well as near-constant performances in their ancient arena. Truly something for everyone!

How To Get There

If you’re visiting Venice, Milan or Florence, Verona is only a short train ride away. Most of the major high-speed trains stop in Verona if you’re coming in from a big city. But if you are taking the train from a small town along the way, Versona station is also serviced by many local, regional trains.

If you’d instead like to take the bus, there are plenty of options that even run internationally, making stops in Verona.

If you have rented a car, you can reach Verona’s from highway A4 or A22. There are free parking areas in the Porta Palio Parking lot and the Guardini Parking Lot to park. You can also park your car at the tourist bus terminal for free. Paid parking areas can be found along Via M. Bentegodi . It’s always best to avoid driving right into the city unless you have a hotel stay booked and can park in the hotel. Not only is driving in the city’s inner centre difficult, often tourist cars are banned from entering certain parts of the city. So be warned. I always find it’s much less stressful to park away from the city center and enjoy a leisurely walk into town.

History of Verona Italy

What might surprise some people about their visit to Verona is how ancient the city is. Verona became a Roman colony in 89 BC. Verona was one of the more famous cities in the empire. Located at the intersections of various main trade routes and roads, it was a hub for business. Verona was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the ancient Roman monuments in the city centre. The city suffered a massive earthquake in 1117, which destroyed much of the city’s original Medieval architecture. It was replaced by Romanesque buildings, many of which you can still see today.

Shakespeare in Verona

Shakespeare set two of his plays in the city of Verona;  Romeo and Juliet  and  The Two Gentlemen of Verona . One can only imagine that the writer had an affinity for the town as it features so heavily in his plays. Walking the streets, it’s impossible not to imagine Shakespeare himself walking on these very cobblestones. No doubt daydreaming in his head of his next grand production.

Map of Walking Tour

About this Self-Guided Walking Tour of Verona

This walk takes you across the city of Verona, from the west bridge to the east hillside. The tour is doable in one full day. But if you want to take it at a more leisurely pace, and allow yourself time for shopping or popping inside some of the museums, you can easily split it up into two days. Staying overnight in Verona, or just outside the city in one of their charming B&Bs is an excellent idea since the city clears out of the day-trippers and feels more laidback and quiet at night.

Accessibility

Like many places in Italy, the sidewalks in Verona are mostly narrow and made of uneven cobblestones. Scooters will frequently whip around corners out of nowhere, something all travellers need to be aware of. If you’re travelling in a wheelchair, this walk is still relatively doable. The only issue is the staircase at the end of the tour. In this case, you can finish the walk one step ahead of the itinerary. If you have a mobility aid or are someone who needs to take things at a more leisurely pace, seek the advice from above. It’s great to split the tour into different bits to break up the day. There is nothing better than taking a break at a cafe for an espresso, or a refreshing Aperol spritz to sip on while sitting in the Piazza.

Castelvecchio Bridge

Our tour starts on the  Castelvecchio Bridge , which spans the great  Adige River . This bridge looks so unique, due to its exceptional design. Unlike most bridges that have low barriers to allow unobstructed views across the city, this bridge has large, imposing walls. It was built in 1354 by  Cangrande II della Scala . Cangrande II della Scala was the brutal Lord of Verona from 1351 until he died in 1359. He had the bridge explicitly constructed to escape the city in the event of a rebellion. And with the nickname, “Raging Dog,” Scala wasn’t particularly popular with his people or court. The thick brick walls he had hoped would protect him from assassins on his escape from the city.

History of the Castelvecchio Bridge

The original bridge stood for hundreds of years untouched by wars or attacks. It remained steadfast until 1945 when it was destroyed by retreating German troops. Thankfully it was restored to its original appearance in 1949. 

The red-bricked crenellated parapets are iconic of the city of Verona. You can see this design element all over town. This design was called the  Ghibelline  or the  swallowtail battlement.  The name comes from the V-shaped notches in the merlon’s tops, which give it the appearance of a bird’s tail. But the shape wasn’t just an aesthetic choice. The crenellations were used to protect the archer in battle. The archer would have a clear shot at the attackers outside the battlements while he remained protected. Stop inside the various lookout points along the bridge as they not only provide beautiful views, but the old keystones on the arches have lovely carvings, and some are from the original 14th-century bridge.

Castelvecchio

Continue along the bridge till you reach the  Corso Cavour . Turn left and walk along the Corso. On the left-hand side, you’ll side the exterior of the  Castelvecchio . This is the old Medieval fortress built in 1354. The fort was used to house the military and their arsenal from the 1400s to the 1700s. In the 1700s, it was used as the Venetian military academy. There it remained until 1925 when the building was transformed into a museum. Note the same brickwork seen here along the fortress walls, which is continued from the design of the Vecchio bridge.

Arco dei Gavi

Just past the fortress, take a minute to walk towards the river on your left, where you’ll find the imposing white limestone  Arco dei Gavi.  The Arco dei Gavi is a   triumphal arch commissioned to architect  L. Vitruvius Cerdo  in the 1st century AD. It was built likely during the reign of Tiberius. This large archway once served as the original entrance to the city. Triumphal arches are synonymous with the Roman period. They marked not only the door to the city but were also built in honour of an important event. This could be the death or birth of a significant person or the construction of an essential trade route, which was highly celebrated by the Romans. 

The original archway wasn’t located in this exact spot. In 1805 the original arch was severely damaged due to structural problems and needed to be demolished. Thankfully, enough of the stone was preserved so that in 1932 it could be rebuilt. It was then moved to this more secure location where it can be admired by modern by tourists.

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Palazzo Canossa

Continuing along the Corso, we shortly come upon the Romanquesue  Palazzo Canossa . The Palazzo was designed in 1527 by  Michele Sanmicheli  in the Mannerist style. Mannerism went against the idea of symmetry and balance, which were the primary characteristics of the previous Renaissance era. Mannerists love to play with space and its relationship with buildings. On the ground floor, there are two sets of windows on either side, centred around a dark portico, which runs parallel to the street. The upper floors of the manor have three different sets of windows and varying heights. Study the roof as it features a gallery of mythological creatures craning their heads over the side, to look at the people below.

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Basilica di San Lorenzo

Hidden through a small, almost unassuming archway along the street is the  Basilica of San Lorenzo . The pointed-arched doorway is topped with a statue of San Lorenzo. On either side of the columns are carvings of climbing flowers. This Romanesque church dates all the way back to 1177. The striped bands of alternating brick and stone along the columns create a mesmerizing pattern. They almost seem to swallow you up as you walk inside. Since the church is so hidden away, this place is often tremendously sombre and a great spot to come for a moment of solitude away from the crowds.

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Porta Borsari

At the end of the Corso Cavour, just beyond the intersection of V ia Antoni Cantore , is the ancient  Porta Borsari . This is another one of Verona’s Roman monuments. The gate was used to protect the city and was built in the first century AD. Twelve simple windows carved into the limestone, atop the double-arched gateway, mark the entry into this district of Verona. The original name of the gate was  Porta Iovia,  as it was located near a small temple dedicated to  Jupiter lustralis . “Borsari” refers to the  bursarii , which were the duties collected from goods that entered and exited the city. 

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Via Antonio Cantore

From here, we’re heading back down towards the centre of town. While the most direct and accessible route to the  Roman Amphiteatre  is along  Via Guglielmo Oberdan , I prefer to take the scenic route. Walk along  Via Antonio Cantore  and turn down  Via Alberto Mario . These two streets are much more quaint and made up mostly of small houses and apartment complexes. They feel like the Verona of days long past, without as many tourist shops. Take a moment to study the window boxes, which are almost always overflowing in flowers in the spring and summertime.

As you come out of the side streets, you’ll exit on the  Piazza Bra . If you follow my instructions and started this tour early in the morning, you’ll have a chance to walk into the square without being mobbed with tourists. The  Piazza Bra  is the largest square in Verona and features some of the most iconic sights in the city. Surrounding the plaza are dozens of cafes and restaurants, but look above them to study the elegant windows and buildings they are located inside—each one a different colour and slightly different design. The square is a beautiful place to stop and have a cup of coffee. Although you pay a premium for the location, its well worth it for the view.

If you’re a tourist on a budget, this is a magnificent place to stop. Bring a little picnic and sit in the large park located in the Piazza. There are many benches to relax on and soak in the scenery. The park is decorated with cedar and pine trees surrounding the  Alps’ fountains.  In the center of the basin, which dominates the park, is a bronze statue of  Victor Emmanuel II,  the first king of Italy. 

Verona Arena

The most imposing structure on the square is the ancient  Roman Arena . If you’ve been to Rome and seen their arena, you’ll be surprised at how well preserved the one in Verona actually is. The arena in Rome no longer has a foundation and therefore is unusable. But the stadium here in Verona is almost immaculately preserved and still in use today! It serves as the venue for local and international opera performances, concerts and plays. This makes the Verona Arena feel more alive and not just a relic of the past.

History of the Verona Arena

This Roman amphitheatre was built in 30 A.D. using white and pink limestone from  Valpolicella . Originally it was used to host gladiator games, jousts, and trials. Gladiators were generally slaves, who were trained to fight for the entertainment of locals and nobles alike. They would face-off inside the arena, and competitions included everything from fights to the death, battles against ferocious animals to simple displays of athletic skills.

There are over 25,000 seats throughout the arena up the 44 tiers of marbled benches. Operas started to be performed here in the 20th century when the famous opera tenor Giovanni Zenatello used the stage to practice with friends and realized how amazing the acoustics were! If there is a performance on while you’re visiting, don’t miss seeing it as the acoustics inside this ancient building are surprisingly amazing!

Palazzo Barbieri

Just in front of the arena is the cream yellow collanades of the  Palazzo Barbieri . The Palazzo Barbieri is home to Verona’s city council. It was initially built in 1836 as a military base by engineer  Guiseppe Barbieri  (for whom the building is named after). The palazzo is made in a neo-classical style. During WWII, the Austrian used the building as one of their bases of operations. Because of this, it was severely damaged in the war, and reconstruction wasn’t completed until 1950.

Portoni della Brà

Past the Palazzo, head west along  Via degli Alpini  until you reach the  Portoni della Bra.  This grandiose gate is from the 3rd-century AD and was one another Roman gateway to Verona. There is an inscription on the brickworks, which dates to 245 AD with the name ‘ Colonia Verona Augusta ‘ carved onto the placard. This would have been the entry ancient visitors would also have travelled through to arrive inside this great city. The materials used to create the great gate were Veronese marble and red brick. Once more, we see that crenellated walkway at the top of the archway. A clock sits in the center of the two arches, but this was added in 1872. 

Via Giuseppe Mazzini

Walking back northwards, head up the  Via Giuseppe Mazzini.  Via Giuseppe Mazzini is the most prestigious shopping street in Verona. This narrow passageway is where you’ll find some of the biggest international brands. Even though they aren’t very unique stores, it’s exciting to see these modern labels crowded into this rather small, ancient space.

Casa de Giulietta

Make your way east along the  Via Anfiteatro  and  Via Stella  until you reach  Via Giuseppe Mazzini . Turn left and walk until you find the fabled  Casa de Giulietta or  House of Juliet . This 13th-century house once belonged to the Capello family (which sounds an awful lot like  Capulet  family). The dwelling is one of the oldest in Verona.  Juliet Capulet,  along with her lover  Romeo,  were fictional characters.

Still, this residence is an excellent representation of wealthy families’ living quarters during the time in which Shakespeare set the play. But there is mounting evidence that two rival families did, in fact, perhaps exist here in Verona. Writer Dante himself wrote a poem about the fabled Ghibelline and Guelph feuding families.

On the way into the house, you’ll see the walls of the arched passageway covered in notes. There are so many pieces of paper, the brick wall almost disappears. These are romantic wishes, left by visitors wishing for their own star crossed love.

The building on its own is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture from the 1300s. Once more here, we see the walls topped with those Ghibelline battlements in red brickwork.

Juliet Balcony

Walking into the courtyard, one of the first things people will look at is the famed balcony. This is where the star crossed sweethearts could have indeed fallen in love. But, this balcony is not a part of the original structure. It was added in the 20th century to jump on the Romeo and Juliet tourist train. The balcony was created by piecing together elements of a 17th-century sarcophagus and attaching it to the wall! Rather morbid for one of the romantic icons of the city, don’t you think?

In the center of the courtyard is a bronze statue of Juliette. While the sculpture was added in the 20th century in honour of the famous play set in Verona, she is still a favourite for visitors. Locals claim that if you rub her right breast, you’ll find love and gain fertility! So obviously the right breast is rather more shiny than the left!

Casa Di Giulietta Museum

You can walk into the courtyard for free, but to get inside the house, you must pay admission. This is because the house itself is a small museum featuring images and objects from the time of Romeo and Juliet. The museum can get really crowded, but if you’re a massive fan of this play, it’s an exciting place to explore. You get a sense of the kind of interiors that Roman and Juliet would have lived in. Since this museum gets so busy during the busy summer months, if you can’t get inside, don’t press yourself and simply come back later in the day or early the next morning. It’s not worth getting stressed out over.

Piazza delle Erbe

Continuing along the street outside the Casa di Giulietta until you come upon the gorgeous  Piazza Delle Erbe . Piazza Delle Erbe means  Square of the Herbs . On the southern side, you’ll see the  Casa de Mercanti  or  House of the Merchants .

This area was once occupied by the original Roman forum. Here, Romans would gather to sell goods, like herbs well as fruits, vegetables and more. Even today, you can still find the square busy with merchants selling everything from food to souvenirs. 

The square now features merchants selling mainly souvenirs for the many tourists who frequent the area. But despite the samey items being sold, the sellers still bring a lively atmosphere to the ancient plaza.

The Torre dei Lamberti

Overlooking the square is the  Tower Lamberti , the tallest building in Verona. The Torre Lamberti was built in 1172. However, the structure had to be rebuilt in the 15th century after being hit by lightning. You can see the newer materials on the exterior marked by the variations in the brickwork. The massive clock on the surface was also added in 1779.

Inside the tower are two large bells; the ‘ Marangona ‘ signals the various hours of the day. There is also a larger bell, called the ‘ Rengo ‘ used to call the population to arms or summon the city council. Skip the ride up the tower as it’s pretty expensive, and we’ll get another view across the city later in the tour.

Domus Mercatorum

Across from the tower is the  Domus Mercatorum  or  Casa dei Mercanti . This was the old home of the merchants guild, built in 1210. It was initially made out of nothing but wood. In 1301 it was reconstructed by a wealthy wool trader,  Alberto I della Scala , who remade it in stone, which was much more long-lasting. The Scala family eventually became one of Verona’s most powerful families. The Scala acted as judges and presiding over legal issues relating to merchants and manufacturers of Verona. I love the exterior of this building. The red brick is inlaid with limestone carvings and beautiful mullioned windows and crenellated parapets.

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Fontana Madonna Verona

In the center of this long square is a beautiful and delicate fountain topped with Verona’s  Madonna . This 14th-century fountain’s sculpture on top actually dates all the way back to 380 AD! The Madonna holds a scroll in her hands. On this, the ancient seal of Verona is written, “ est iusti latrix urbs hec et laudis ” or “ this city is the bearer of justice and lover of praise .”

Mazzanti Houses

Behind the Madonna fountain, is the gorgeous frescoed exterior of the  Mazzanti houses . These residences were built in the 13th century for the Scala family. Later in the 1500s, when they sold to new owners, they were renovated for the modern era. It was right here, in front of his own house, that  Mastino della Scala  was ambushed and murdered in 1277. After this attack, the family decided to move and sold their homes to the wealthy Mazzanti family, another group of merchants.

Mazzanti Frescos

The frescos on the exterior were made in the 16th century by painted  Alberto Cavalli . Cavalli has studied under  Giulio Roman,  who used the same techniques as  Michelangelo.  All these artists share in the use of Mannerism in their artworks. The frescoes depict mythological and allegorical scenes. Each painting is still surprisingly vibrant after being exposed to the elements outdoors for over 500 years. 

In the 16th century, houses in Verona were painted like this as decorating the exterior with paint cost much less than architectural sculpture. But frescoes were nonetheless as impressive. Visitors to Verona called the city “ urbs picta ” which meant the  painted city . Although very little of these frescoes remain, this gives you an idea of what it once looked like.

Take a Break

The Piazza de Erbe is one of Verona’s most picturesque places to stop and grab a drink. An Aperol Spritz is the drink of choice for most diners. Grab a table outside and soak in the views of the multicoloured buildings and balconies overlooking the square.

Column of San Marco

At the end of the square, you’ll find the large  Column of San Marco.  The marble column features the winged lion of San Marco, the symbol of Venice. Verona was once under the imperial rule of Venice. As such, there are still symbols of this around Verona today. The Colonna di San Marco was erected in 1523, and sculpted in immaculate white marble. The carving of a lion on the top is a 19th-century addition. The original sculpture which stood here was destroyed in 1797 when the Venetian Republic was dismantled. A new lion was added back in 1866 once tensions around the entire event died down.

Palazzo Maffei

Facing onto the square is the luxurious  Palazzo Maffei . This baroque building is covered in statues of Roman gods looking out at the pedestrians on the plaza. The top of the building is host to six statues of divinities: Hercules, Jupiter, Venus, Mercury, Apollo and Minerva. Hercules’ statuette looks slightly different from the rest. This is because Hercules was stolen from the Roman Capitoline Hill and placed onto the facade of the house! It hundreds of years older than the other baroque statues and is easily identifiable from the others.

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Arco della Costa

In the middle of the Piazza, there is a large archway leading to the alleyway along the Via della Costa. Hanging in the middle of the arch is a huge whale’s rib suspended from two thin wire hangers which has been named the  Arco della Costa . This passageway connected the old judge’s residence to the tribunal hall. During the Venetian republic, when the rule of law was harsh and swift, judges were often the target of the people’s hatred. So it was important for the government to protect these nobles. They did so by constructing this walkway, which would allow them to get around their workplaces and residences without having to walk in the public streets. 

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Ancient Whale Rib

The whale rib hanging over the entrance was once thought to belong to an ancient aquatic dinosaur. Although recent investigations have proven that it is indeed merely a whale’s rib. The earliest documentation of when the bone was placed here was in the 18th century, but the rib’s age makes it more probable that it has been here for much longer than that. 

Myth of the Giant Whale

There are several theories as to why the rib was placed in the arch, but no one has any concrete proof of either of these hypotheses. One says that it was a relic brought back by the Venetians republic from the holy lands during the crusades. Another legend goes that it was a fossil found in the mountains of Verona. They thought the fossil might have been from ancient monsters, not a whale, and placed it here to ward off evil spirits. But the most likely cause of its installation is perhaps the dullest, and that was an advertisement.

The Piazza de Erbe was a busy place. To catch the public’s attention, an old apothecary shop placed this rib here to mark their location so people could easily find their way to their store. This is the most probable answer because the bone still belongs to the family who owns a pharmacy located here to this day. So more than like was something passed down to their families after many generations.

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Piazza dei Signori

Passing through the  Arco della Costa , and walking along the  Via della Costa  you’ll exit out onto the  Piazza dei Signori . This square is home to so many incredible well-known buildings. The square’s name, “ Signore ” in Italian, means “ minister ,” which was the name used for influential political figures who shaped Verona’s history. Many powerful and wealthy families lived in this area, who, despite not being technical royalty, held the real power over the city of Verona. As this area was near the old Roman forum and marketplace, it was one of the hottest real estate location in Verona that only the most influential people could afford. 

The buildings around the square represent a range of Verona’s architectural designs throughout the ages. It almost feels like an open-air museum. Each of the individual structures is gracefully adjoined by a series of arches. Atop each arch is a statue of a famous Veronese personality.

Palazzo della Ragione

The  Palazzo della Ragione  is one of the oldest buildings in Italy, with construction starting in 1193. It is one of the best examples of Veronese Romanesque architecture. The alternating layers of beige stone and red brick display the typical design of Romanesque Veronese architecture.

History of the Palazzo del Comune

Initially, the building was called the  Palazzo del Comune . It served as a public plaza and warehouse for the city’s residents. The entire ground floor was open, and there was a large room in the center where the city council would meet. This allowed members of the public to always have eyes on their city council to see what was going on.

But when the Venetian Republic took control of the city in 1405, they turned the building into a courthouse. It became the seat of judicial offices, prisons, professional colleges and even the health office. The closest tower you can see while standing in the square was where prisoners would be set before their trials. The other tower attached to the building is the Lamberti tower we studied previously in the Piazza del Erbe. The building would have initially had four towers, one located on each of the Palazzo corners, but there are only two which remain.

In the center of the courtyard is a large staircase, called the “staircase of reason.” Prisoners would be lead up the stairs were the accusations against them would be read out in front of the public.

Palazzo as Grain Warehouse

Later in the 16th century, the inner courtyard was used as a warehouse for grain. The grain and flour were sold to Verona’s most impoverished families, almost like the food stamp programs some countries have today. With the fall of the Republic, the ownership of the Palazzo’s upper floors was turned over to a private family while the lowers levels remained state-owned. The exterior of the building facing the Piazza dei Signori features a neoclassical design that was made after one of the many fires that ravaged the building. In the early 2000s, the building was converted into the Achille Forti Gallery of Modern Art.

Dante Alighieri

In the centre of the square is a marble column topped with the figure of Italian poet  Dante Alighieri,  made in 1865 by  Ugo Zannoni . Dante spent seven years living in Verona and is much beloved by Veronese citizens. Dante had supported the Emperor in his war against the Pope. But when the Emperor’s army lost, Dante was cast out of Florence. He took up residence in Verona inside the  Palace of the Podesta , which is just across from his statue. 

The Divine Comedy

In the Palace of the Podesta ,  it is said that he wrote the “ Divine Comedy. “During his time in Verona, he often stayed at the Scala family court when Bartolomeo Scala was in power. During Dante’s stay, it is said that he witnessed the real-life inspiration for Rome and Juliette with the tragedy of the two lovers Montecchi and Cappelletti.

Palace of the Podestà

The  Palace of the Podestà  (or the Palazzo del Governo) was a famous residence for local celebrities. It was initially built for the Scaligeri family in 1277. The Scaligeri were the ruling family of Verona from the 13th to 14th centuries. The word  Podestà  was a name given to high officials in Italy in the later Middle Ages. It was here that the Podesta had their offices but also where they held residence. The house hosted such famous guests as Dante and artists Giotto. Giotto was once commissioned to cover the exterior of the palace in frescoes. Due to the fact they were located outdoors, this meant deterioration was more severe. As they were not well maintained, they have been lost to the ages.

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Verona’s Renaissance

Once more, we see the iconic Ghibelline crenellations on the top of the building. The entrance structure is a beautiful example of the Veronese medieval style. Highlighted by the semi-circular vaults on the lower level. The incredible marble portal was added in the 16th century by Michele Sanmicheli. He was inspired by the arch of Gavi (which we saw earlier in the tour.) On either side of the archway are two winged victories that lay languidly in the corners. Around this time, Verona’s artists were obsessed with the Roman are and were drawing inspiration for the part to include in their modern  Renaissance.  On the top of the portal is a statue of the Lion of Venice. This was there to show off the fact that this building was under the control of the Republic of Venice.

The archway that connects the Palace of the Podestà to the Palace of Cansignorio is known as the  Arco della Tortura . Since this area of town was where all the judges lived and worked, it was also where the judgement was carried out. Torture instruments were strung up along the arch to put fear into the citizens of Verona.

Palace of Cansignorio

On the southeast side of the square, we find the  Palace of Cansignorio .   Cansignorio  della Scala was Lord of Verona from 1359 until 1375. The Palace, also called the  Palazzo del Capitanio,  was built in 1363 for the protection of the Captain of the City of Verona under the scrutiny of the  Serenissima  (the name for the sovereign state of Venice). The palace once featured three towers on top quipped with armed guards. This was where Cansignorio della Scala lived along with the rest of his administration.

The exterior of the building is divided into the brick tower on the right and the classical white facade on the left. The brick dates back from the original construction whereas the white structure was designed during renovations made in the 16th century. One of the most notable parts of the classical building is the large Corinthian archway which leads guests into the inner courtyard. The coats of arms that are carved into the facade are another iconic feature of the building. All of these works were completed by famed Venetian architect   Michele Sanmicheli . 

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Loggia del Consiglio

The Loggia del Consiglio is a stunning piece of Renaissance architecture located in Verona, Italy. Built in the 16th century, this loggia (an open-air gallery) served as the meeting place for the city council and is now considered one of the most significant landmarks in the city. The loggia is made up of a large central arched opening, surrounded by smaller arches, and supported by a series of Corinthian columns. The detailed carvings and frescoes that adorn the loggia walls are breathtaking, showcasing the skill of the artists of that era.

Church of Saint Mary Antica

The Church of Saint Mary ‘Antica’ in Verona, Italy is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. This medieval church, built in the 12th century, is one of the oldest in the city and is renowned for its intricate carvings, stained glass windows, and beautiful frescoes. The church’s exterior is equally impressive, with its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and tall spires that create a dramatic silhouette against the sky.

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But the most important sight of the church can be found right above the doors to the side entrance. Atop the trefoil archway is the stone sarcophagus of Can Grande I Della Scala. Cangrande della Scala ruled over Verona from 1308 to 1387 and was notable for being a devoted patron of Dante. Above the arch, look up and on top of the pointed tower is an equestrian statue of the prince.

Scaliger Tombs

Peeking between the iron bars just off to the left of the side entrance to the church is a grandiose series of tombs. These are the Scaliers Tombs, the ornate resting places of the members of the powerful Della Scala family. The Della Scala family ruled over Verona during their golden age in the 14th century. Throughout their reign, they made several large impacts on the development of the city. But perhaps their most impressive and lasting monument was their five decorated Gothic tombs.

Each one of their eternal resting places had been placed atop a tall stone plinth, perhaps meant to keep them looking down on the citizens of Veroa for eternity. Each one of their tombs is richly decorated with religious motifs, reflecting the personality of the deceased. For instance, the tomb of Cangrande della Scala, the greatest lord of Verona, is adorned with sculptures of dogs, as “Cangrande” means “big dog” in Italian.

The entire complex is surrounded by a beautifully decorated wrought iron fence with a stair pattern, symbolizing the family’s coat of arms. The stair pattern was used throughout the Arche Scaligere, as “Della Scala” means “of the stairs” in Italian.

Casa di Romeo

Walking along the Via Arche Scaligere, you will pass #4, which contains a plaque stating it is the “ Casa di Romeo .” The old brick walls hid behind what is said to have been the house that once belonged to the Montecchi family. Looking up along the roofline, you can see these classic Ghibelline swallowtail battlements. This symbolic piece of architecture really exemplifies the struggles for power that the Ghibellines and the Guelphs were having. Considering that even their architecture was odd and competing for prevalence. Like Coca-cola vs Pepsi. Today, the building is privately owned but can still be seen from the outside.

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Basilica of Santa Anastasia

Heading towards the river, make a quick stop at the  Basilica of Santa Anastasia . The Basilica of Santa Anastasia in Verona, Italy, is a magnificent church that dates back to the 14th century. It is one of the largest and most important Gothic churches in Verona. The basilica’s grand facade, featuring pointed arches and elaborate sculptures, sets the tone for the breathtaking interior. 

But entering inside, you’ll see why this stop is worth taking some time to visit. The nave is lined with elegant columns and stained-glass windows that cast a warm glow over the entire space. The highlight of the basilica is the stunning frescoes that adorn the walls and ceilings, depicting scenes from the life of St. Anastasia and other saints. Visitors will also be impressed by the church’s impressive organ, which is one of the largest in Italy, and its beautiful choir stalls.

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Piazzetta Bra Molinari

To finish off your walking tour, head to the Piazzetta Bra Molinari, where you have a beautiful view over the Adige River. You also have a gorgeous view across to the eastern side of the river and the ancient buildings that crawl up the hillside. This includes the Castel San Pietro, the Museo Archeologico al Teatro Romano, the Chiesa dei Santi Siro e Libera and the old convent of Saint Girolamo. Many of these are fantastic places to visit if you have more time in the city. So take a moment to relax and watch the world pass you by from this romantic river side viewpoint.

I truly hope you enjoyed coming with me on this self-guided walking tour of Verona, Italy. Verona was one of my favourite cities in Italy and one I think people know the name of but don’t take enough time to explore! There is so much history and drama to this place, and I hope you find your hidden treasures along the way.

Happy Travels, Adventurers

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Free Hiking Tour Verona

Tour details.

An unusual walking tour off the beaten paths. We will 'climb' the ancient walls of the city to get a different view on the city and its history.

• When: coming soon
• Where: Bastione delle Maddalene , vicolo Madonnina
• Duration: 2h
• Language: English
• Itinerary: Bastione delle Maddalene, Porta Vescovo gate, Salita Santo Sepolcro/ Cangrande della Scala wall, Via San Zeno in Monte, Batteria di Scarpa, Rondella di San Zeno in Monte, Casamatta di San Zeno in Monte

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