This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.
Planning a trip to Verona? We’ve got you covered!
Verona might be best known as the setting of Romeo and Juliet, but there’s so much more to discover in this elegant northern Italian city. With its Roman ruins, Renaissance palaces, and unbeatable food and wine, Verona makes the perfect three-day getaway.
After exploring this enchanting city inside and out, we’re sharing the hidden gems we’ve uncovered along the way. In just three days, you’ll dive into Verona’s rich history, savor regional specialties, and even venture out to nearby Lake Garda. Follow this itinerary for an unforgettable blend of guided tours, local eats, and leisurely moments. Ready? Let’s dive in!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this small-group walking tour! We explored the city’s iconic sights, learned local legends, and ended with a scenic cable car ride up Saint Peter Hill. A must for first-time visitors!
Day 1
Breakfast – Elk Bakery
We’re kicking off this three-day itinerary in the best way, with breakfast!
Elk Bakery is a bright, modern spot that opens at 7 am, so it’s perfect for an early bite before your busy morning. We loved the cozy atmosphere and friendly service. It feels like the kind of place you’d want to linger a little longer even after you’ve finished eating.
The pancakes with banana, strawberries, and syrup are a standout if you’re in the mood for something sweet, but the real treat? Their cinnamon rolls. Soft, gooey, and oh so good! Give yourself time to enjoy a slow breakfast with good coffee.
Our morning tour meeting point is also just a 10-minute walk away from this delicious spot. We’d suggest getting here at around 7:30–8 am, so you’re not feeling rushed.
Morning – Learn about Verona on a walking tour
After breakfast, it’s time to dive into Verona’s layered history with this small-group walking tour that kicks off at 9:30 am and wraps up around 12–12:30 pm. With no more than 12 people in the group, it’s a much more personal experience than the big tour buses, and a fantastic way to get your bearings on day one.
You’ll start in lively Piazza Bra, right in the heart of town, before heading into the impressive Verona Arena. The guide brings it all to life with stories of ancient gladiator battles and Roman spectacles (just note that the Arena is closed to visitors on Mondays).
From there, you’ll stroll to photo favorites like Juliet’s balcony (where apparently the real events happened!) and the statue in the courtyard, a fun nod to the city’s Shakespearean fame, then wander past the Della Scala tombs and through elegant squares like Piazza dei Signori and Piazza delle Erbe, where you’ll hear about local food culture and market traditions.
The tour finishes with a scenic ride up St. Peter’s Hill on the cable car, where you’ll get sweeping views over Verona’s terracotta rooftops and winding Adige River. It’s the kind of introduction that makes the whole city feel like a living museum, but with fewer crowds and a local guide who really knows their stuff.
You can read their glowing reviews and book this tour in advance here!
Lunch – Brusco Panini
After the morning tour, you’ll only be about a 7-minute walk from Brusco Panini, a casual takeaway spot that’s perfect when you’re not starving but still craving something delicious. We weren’t super hungry after that big Elk Bakery breakfast, but this place totally hit the spot.
They serve up freshly made focaccia sandwiches with a wide variety of fillings, from classic combos to more inventive twists. The Capri with added melanzane (eggplant) is a standout if you like something hearty, with pillowy bread and top-notch mozzarella. Everything’s made to order, so you’ll get that just-pressed, still-warm sandwich magic. It’s also budget-friendly and quick, which means more time to explore the rest of Verona.
Afternoon – Explore Vernona on your own
By now, you’ve already seen many of Verona’s big-name sights, but this afternoon is the perfect time to slow down and follow your curiosity. You can revisit favorite spots from the tour or branch out a little farther; we’ve got a mix of central highlights and slightly off-the-beaten-path gems to choose from:
- Via Mazzini – Verona’s main shopping street is polished, pedestrian-only, and lined with everything from high-end boutiques to Italian fashion staples. Even if you’re not in the mood to shop, it’s a great place for a people-watching stroll with a gelato in hand.
- Torre dei Lamberti – Hop in the elevator (or tackle the stairs) to reach the top of this medieval tower for panoramic views across the city. On clear days, you can see the red rooftops stretch all the way to the surrounding hills.
- Porta Borsari – If you happened to miss it on the tour, it’s worth looping back to see this remarkably preserved Roman gate. Dating back to the 1st century, it’s one of those moments where you really feel the layers of history beneath your feet.
- Torre dei Lamberti – Hop in the elevator (or tackle the stairs) to reach the top of this medieval tower for panoramic views across the city. On clear days, you can see the red rooftops stretch all the way to the surrounding hills.
- Verona Cathedral (Duomo di Verona) – This beautiful blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture is often quieter than other landmarks and offers a peaceful atmosphere for a quick visit or quiet moment inside.
- Ponte Scaligero – This striking red-brick bridge looks like something straight out of a fairytale and offers some of the best photo ops in Verona. Cross it on foot and enjoy the riverside views.
- Castelvecchio Bridge and Museum – Right next to Ponte Scaligero, this 14th-century castle-turned-museum holds a surprisingly impressive collection of medieval and Renaissance art, and the inner courtyard is a lovely place to wander.
Apertivo – Antica Bottega del Vino
After a full afternoon of wandering, why not treat yourself to a proper aperitivo? We loved Antica Bottega del Vino when we visited. It’s just a 5-minute walk from your evening cooking class, and this beloved wine bar has been pouring glasses since the 1800s.
The wine list is vast (and well curated), but if you’re unsure, just ask for a recommendation and sip your way into the evening with something regional, like a velvety Amarone or a crisp Soave. The rustic wood interiors and buzzing yet cozy vibe make it a great place to rest your feet, toast the day, and ease into dinner mode.
Evening – Learn how to cook pasta and tiramisu
Your first night in Verona is wrapped up perfectly with this hands-on cooking class that’s as fun as it is tasty! From 7 to 10 pm (except Sundays), you’ll step inside a local restaurant’s kitchen for a small group experience that walks you through two of Italy’s most iconic dishes: fresh pasta and tiramisu.
The evening kicks off with a welcome glass of Prosecco, and honestly, that first sip sets the tone perfectly. We loved how relaxed and friendly the vibe was right from the start. After a quick tour behind the scenes, it was time to tie on our aprons and get to work.
Our instructor, Ava, walked us through the differences between pasta fresca and pasta secca, and gave us helpful tips on the right flour and kneading technique. Dan got very into shaping the pasta, he may have declared himself head chef, while I took full responsibility for the tiramisu layering (and maybe a little taste-testing along the way).
At the end, everyone sat down together to enjoy what we’d made, and the glass of wine that came with dinner couldn’t have been a better pairing. Don’t just take our word for it—check out the five-star reviews here to see why this is a top-rated tour. You’ll leave full of delicious food and new ways to cook; we call that a win-win!
You can book the same popular cooking class we took here!
Related Read: If you love Verona, you’ll probably like Siena too! Check out our 1 or 2 day Siena itinerary for a quick, but epic visit.
Day 2
Spend the day at Lake Garda and Sirmione
After your first day in the city, it’s time to venture out of town for a bit and soak in the beauty of Lake Garda! Kicking off at 9 am and running until approximately 4:30 pm, this small-group tour to Lake Garda combines a relaxing boat ride, a guided tour, and ample free time to explore independently. Note: This tour isn’t available on Sundays, so plan accordingly!
The day begins with a comfortable bus ride to Sirmione, a dreamy little peninsula town known for its Roman ruins and castle views. We boarded a boat and cruised across the lake, taking in the elegant lakeside villas and postcard-perfect scenery.
One of our favorite stops was the Grotte di Catullo, the remains of an ancient Roman villa that must’ve been spectacular in its prime. It’s perched right on the water and surrounded by olive trees.
After the cruise, we spent an hour exploring Sirmione with our guide, learning about the town’s medieval past. But the real highlight was the three hours of free time to roam. We climbed to the top of the Scaliger Castle, wandered the cobbled streets, and grabbed a cappuccino at a lakeside café. It felt like stepping into a storybook.
Before heading back to Verona, we stopped at Lazise, a smaller village with colorful harbor views and a relaxed vibe. We loved having time to explore on our own at both stops, no rushing, just beautiful sights and breezy lake air.
Check availability and book this Lake Garda and Sirmione tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Late afternoon – Giusti Garden
If you’ve still got some energy in the tank after your day at the lake, we highly recommend spending a little time at Giusti Garden, one of Verona’s most peaceful hidden gems. Open until 7 pm, these Renaissance-era botanical gardens are tucked just east of the historic center and feel like a world away from the busier city streets.
You’ll wander past cypress-lined paths, sculpted hedges, and ancient statues as you climb gently uphill toward the panoramic viewpoint. The view from the top is absolutely worth the effort! We found it to be the perfect wind-down before dinner, especially if you want a slower, more scenic end to the day.
Of course, if your feet are saying otherwise, there’s no shame in heading back to your hotel for a rest and a quick refresh before your evening meal.
Dinner – Ristorante Nastro Azzurro
For your second night in Verona, treat yourself to dinner with a view at Ristorante Nastro Azzurro, just steps from the Verona Arena. It’s the kind of spot that nails the balance, great food, great atmosphere, and prices that don’t make your wallet flinch. Grab a table outside if you can for a front-row seat to the buzz of the piazza.
We highly recommend trying the Risotto all’Amarone, one of Verona’s most iconic dishes made with rich, velvety Amarone wine! It’s deeply flavorful and feels like a local rite of passage. There’s also a wide menu here, from seafood pastas to grilled meats, and the wine list is surprisingly extensive, think Champagne, whiskey, and of course, top-notch regional reds.
Related Read: If you’re looking for more things to do in Verona, check out our blog on Verona’s top experiences here—perfect for adding extra sparkle to your three-day itinerary!
Day 3
Morning – Taste your way around Verona on a food tour
You’ve had two days to see Verona, now it’s time to really taste what makes the city special! This small-group food tour starts at 10:30 am and runs until 2 pm, just enough time to sample your way through the city’s culinary scene before your afternoon wine adventure. Just let your guide know you’ll need to leave right on time, but the next tour is only an 8-minute walk away.
This experience kicks off with a local favorite, a fresh “risino” pastry (a sweet rice tart that’s typical to Verona) and a proper Italian espresso in Piazza Bra. From there, our guide took us on a scenic (and undeniably delicious) route through the city, past the Arena, through Piazza delle Erbe, and into cozy osterias tucked down side streets.
We tasted Soppressa salami, Monte Veronese cheese, and a few regional cicchetti (small snacks similar to tapas), followed by a generous glass of Valpolicella wine that reminded us we were definitely in northern Italy. There’s even a sit-down stop for a traditional hot dish, plus a final scoop of creamy artisanal gelato to finish things off.
Between bites, the guide shared local food traditions and gave cultural context to each stop—it wasn’t just a meal, it was a full-on flavor tour through Verona’s history. With so many glowing five-star reviews that you can read here, it’s easy to see why this tour is such a hit!
This food tour is SUPER popular! You can book your spot on this tour here!
Afternoon – Go wine tasting in Valpolicella
After wrapping up your food tour around 2 pm, you’ll have just enough time for a quick reset before diving into the next delicious adventure, an afternoon of wine tasting in the Valpolicella region. This small-group tour departs at 2:30 pm (not available on Sundays, so plan ahead!), and the meeting point is just an 8-minute walk from the end of the food tour, so it fits together seamlessly after the morning tour.
This experience is limited to just eight people and offers a relaxing escape from the city into the rolling hills of Valpolicella, one of Italy’s top wine regions. You’ll visit two family-run wineries, where passionate winemakers walk you through their cellars and share how they craft bold reds like Ripasso and the iconic Amarone, made from partially dried grapes.
At each stop, you’ll sample a generous flight of wines, thoughtfully paired with local snacks, while learning about the unique production process and the history behind each glass. We especially loved hearing about the winemakers’ family traditions, it made the whole experience feel personal and memorable.
Plus, the scenery is gorgeous. Between the wineries, we snapped plenty of photos of the rolling vineyards and peaceful countryside. All in all, it’s a gorgeous way to wind down your final full day!
You can book this winery tour with FREE 24-hour cancellation here!
Evening – Stroll through the historic center and along the river
After a day of feasting and sipping your way through Verona and Valpolicella, you’ll definitely want to ease into the evening. Dinner happens late here, so there’s really no rush.
We recommend giving your stomach a little time to settle with a gentle walk through the historic center. Verona is especially magical at night, when the streets are quieter and everything glows under soft amber lights.
We wandered along the Adige River, crossed a few bridges just for the views, and let the city guide us. There’s something extra romantic about seeing Piazza delle Erbe or the Arena after dark, when the crowds have thinned out.
When you’re ready for dinner, follow your instincts, or do what we did and grab a table at Locanda Ai Portici. It’s a cozy, welcoming spot with great pasta and a warm atmosphere, but really, you can’t go wrong. Verona’s full of charming places that seem to appear just when you’re ready for one last glass of wine. Cheers to an unforgettable trip!
Related Read: Planning to see more of Italy? Don’t miss our 3-day Venice itinerary here—it’s packed with tips for exploring canals, landmarks, and local eats in just a few days!
Where to Stay in Verona, Italy
Choosing the right place to stay in Verona can make your visit even more magical. Whether you’re here to explore its rich history, stroll along charming streets, or soak in the romance of Juliet’s city, staying in the heart of Verona puts you close to all the action. To help you find the perfect spot, I’ve rounded up the best hotels for every budget below!
Luxury – $$$
The Due Torri Hotel is a top choice for a luxury stay in Verona. This elegant 5-star hotel is housed in a historic building just steps from Juliet’s House and Piazza delle Erbe. Expect beautifully decorated rooms with classic Italian charm, a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views, and two on-site restaurants serving delicious local cuisine. If you’re looking for a luxurious and atmospheric stay in the heart of Verona, this is it!
Prices vary depending on the time of year but usually start between €300 – €400 per night. You can check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
The Lady Verona Residence is a fantastic mid-range option in Verona, offering stylish and charming accommodations in a great location. Just a short walk from the city center, this hotel provides easy access to Verona’s top attractions while offering a peaceful retreat. The rooms come equipped with great amenities, including air conditioning, perfect for those warm Italian summers!
Prices usually range between €140 – €200 per night, depending on the time of year. You can book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Hotel Piccolo is a fantastic budget-friendly option in Verona, just a 20-minute walk from the famous Verona Arena and only 400 meters from the train station. The rooms are simple yet comfortable, all featuring private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioning. Guests can also enjoy a daily buffet breakfast, making it a great value stay in a convenient location!
Rooms start as low as €65 per night and sell out quickly, so make sure you reserve your room on Booking.com in advance!
For more options, see all of the hotels in Verona here!
Renting a Car in Italy
Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!
We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Italy
- Drive on the right: Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Right turns on red are illegal, and you must often yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
- Stay alert and confident: Italian driving can feel aggressive in cities—expect assertive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and liberal horn use (often just a form of communication). Stay calm and practice defensive driving.
- Insurance is a must: We highly recommend adding full coverage insurance when booking. Minor damage like scratches and dents is common, especially in cities, and Discover Cars’ full protection gives you peace of mind at a low cost!
- Mind the ZTL zones: Many city centers have restricted traffic zones called ZTLs. Entering without a permit can result in a fine. Check with your hotel and use GPS with ZTL alerts.
- Choose the right vehicle: Roads in Italy can be narrow and parking tight, so a compact car is usually best. Most rentals are manual, but if you need an automatic, you can easily filter for one when booking with Discover Cars.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- You must be at least 18 years old, but renters under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Three days was the perfect amount of time to fall in love with Verona and dive into its rich history, local flavors, and easygoing vibe. While we’d love to stay forever, this itinerary hits the top spots, hidden gems, and leaves time for you to soak up the magic on your own.
Before you pack your bags, don’t miss our other Italy blogs here! They’re packed with tips, stories, and plenty of inspiration for your next Italian adventure. Or here are some of our favorite guides to help you start planning your trip—enjoy!
Where to Stay in Rome, Italy: The 5 Best Areas & Hotels