Verona

Dominating Verona’s skyline, the Arena is a monumental Roman amphitheatre built in the 1st century AD. Once partially destroyed by the 1117 earthquake, what remains today is the supporting masonry of its tiered interior, which continues to captivate visitors. Recognized as the third-largest surviving Roman amphitheatre, it has become world-famous for its opera festivals held during the summer months, a tradition uninterrupted since 1913. The Arena also played a historic role in the 2026 Winter Olympics, hosting the closing ceremony, and remains an iconic symbol of Verona’s rich Roman past and vibrant cultural scene.

Casa di Giulietta, famously associated with Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, is a medieval building located on Via Cappello in Verona. Although the house is much older, the iconic balcony was added in 1936 to attract visitors. Today, the site functions as a romantic pilgrimage spot, filled with love notes, graffiti, and trinkets left by admirers. Inside, visitors can view Renaissance frescoes and a replica of Zeffirelli's bed from the 1968 film, making it a popular, if sentimental, monument to love.

Standing proudly in Verona’s historic heart, Piazza delle Erbe has been the city’s bustling hub since Roman times. Once the forum of ancient Verona, today it’s a lively square filled with market stalls, the charming Britney Verona fountain, and the medieval Gardello Tower — a perfect spot to soak up local life and history.

Castelvecchio, or 'Old Castle,' is Verona’s most important medieval fortress, built by the Scaliger family in the 1300s. Its sturdy, square shape of red brick is a classic Gothic masterpiece, complete with seven towers and a striking M-shaped battlement. Originally a military stronghold, it’s now home to a fantastic museum and the city’s officers’ club, with a dry moat surrounding the structure. Don’t miss the chance to explore this impressive piece of Verona’s history.

The Basilica of San Zeno, renowned as one of Italy’s finest examples of Romanesque architecture, stands proudly in Verona’s San Zeno district. Dedicated to the city’s patron saint, Zeno, it was built on the site of an earlier church over the tomb of the saint himself. The basilica’s most striking features include its ornate façade, adorned with bronze reliefs and a massive rose window, and its interior, which houses masterpieces such as Andrea Mantegna’s altarpiece. Rich in history and art, San Zeno has long inspired poets and pilgrims alike, and it continues to be a central religious and cultural symbol for Verona.

Piazza Bra is Verona’s largest and liveliest square, nestled right in the heart of the historic center. Its name, derived from the Lombard word 'breit' meaning 'broad,' hints at its expansive character. The square really took shape in the 1500s when architect Michele Sanmicheli completed the Palazzo degli Honorij, setting a grand western boundary and framing the view of the famous Arena. The area was transformed from a muddy open space into a social hub thanks to initiatives like the first section of the Liston, a paved promenade linking key streets from 1770. Over the centuries, the Gran Guardia, built by the Venetians and later completed by the Austrians, defined the southern edge, with the Palazzo Barbieri rising on the eastern side after demolitions in the 1830s. Today, Piazza Bra buzzes with cafés, shops, and cultural life, offering a perfect spot to soak up Verona’s vibrant atmosphere.

Ponte Pietra, Verona’s oldest bridge, weaves a storied path across the Adige River like a living monument to history. Its Roman arches, dating back to around 100 BC, have witnessed centuries of change—from Roman trade routes to medieval defenses, and even wartime destruction. After surviving floods and the ravages of war, the bridge was carefully reconstructed in the 20th century, each stone telling tales of resilience and timeless beauty. As you walk its historic span, you step into a living chronicle of Verona’s enduring spirit.

Perched atop San Pietro Hill, Castel San Pietro offers more than just military history— it provides breathtaking views over Verona. Built by the Austrians between 1852 and 1858, this former barracks offers a commanding vantage point, accessible via a funicular or a walk up the hill. While the interiors aren’t open to the public, the panoramic vistas of the city below make it a favorite sunset stop for visitors and locals alike.

The Torre dei Lamberti rises 84 meters above Verona’s central square, Piazza delle Erbe. Construction started way back in 1172, and after a lightning strike in 1403, it took over 40 years to restore and expand, with the addition of a clock in 1779. Climb to the top for fantastic city views or just admire the tower’s medieval Gothic structure— a true icon of Verona’s skyline.

The Roman theatre of Verona, dating back to the 1st century BC, is a remarkably well-preserved open-air venue nestled at the foot of Colle San Pietro along the left bank of the Adige River. As one of Northern Italy’s finest surviving Roman theatres, it continues to serve as a cultural hub, hosting performances and festivals, notably the renowned summer season of the Verona Summer Theatre since 1948. Its enduring structure offers visitors a vivid glimpse into ancient Roman entertainment architecture and civic life.

Tucked away in Verona’s Veronetta district, Palazzo Giusti del Giardino is a true Renaissance gem. Its sprawling Italian garden, famous for grottoes, hillside masks that breathe fire, and breathtaking terraces, invites visitors to wander through a lush landscape that echoes the grandeur of late Renaissance Italy.

Piazza dei Signori, also known as Piazza Dante, lies at the heart of Verona’s historic center, adjacent to Piazza delle Erbe. Originating in the Middle Ages with the development of the Scaliger palaces, this square has long served as a hub of political, administrative, and ceremonial activity. Surrounded by grand buildings connected by arches and loggias, it remains a focal point of Verona’s civic life and architectural heritage.

The Scaliger Tombs form a striking Gothic funerary complex in Verona’s Santa Maria Antica district, just steps from the piazza. Built in the 14th century, these elaborate tombs honor the ruling Scaliger family, featuring high, open-style tombs topped with statues of the deceased in armor. Recognized as some of the finest examples of Gothic art, they’re a must-see for history buffs and architecture lovers alike.

The Verona Cathedral, or Santa Maria Matricolare, stands majestically in the city’s historic center. Rebuilt after an earthquake in 1117, this Romanesque church has watched over Verona for centuries, with its simple yet impressive structure serving as a spiritual anchor and a testament to the city’s enduring faith and history.

Porta Borsari is the remnants of a Roman gate that once served as Verona’s main entrance. Dating back to at least the 2nd century AD, it’s believed to be built over an even older gate from the 1st century BC. The gate’s elegant arches and Corinthian columns highlight its Roman origins, and it once marked the crucial route along the Via Postumia, leading travelers into the heart of ancient Verona.

The Castelvecchio Bridge, also known as the Scaliger Bridge, is a formidable medieval structure spanning the Adige River in Verona. Renowned for its architectural ingenuity, it was once the world's largest segmental arch bridge at the time of its completion, with a span of nearly 49 meters. Built as part of the Castelvecchio fortress, the bridge exemplifies medieval military engineering. After its destruction during World War II, it was meticulously reconstructed in 1951, allowing visitors to admire its historic grandeur and strategic significance.

Dominating Verona’s skyline, Santa Anastasia church is a masterpiece of Gothic art and architecture. Built in the 13th-15th centuries, its richly decorated façade and interior, adorned with frescoes by master painters like Pisanello and Domenico Brusasorzi, make it a must-see for art lovers eager to explore Verona’s medieval artistic heritage.

The Teatro Filarmonico, Verona’s crown jewel of opera, rises gracefully in the city center, whispering centuries of artistic tradition. A monument of resilience, it was originally built in 1716, reborn after devastating fires in 1749 and again post-World War II bombings in 1945. Owned by the Accademia Filarmonica, this magnificent hall comes alive each winter as the stage for the renowned Arena di Verona’s seasonal operatic performances, echoing the passion and craftsmanship of Italy’s musical heritage.

San Fermo Maggiore is a striking blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, rising prominently in Verona’s historic core. Dedicated to Saints Fermo and Rustico, this centuries-old church features Gothic pinnacles, medieval frescoes, and a history that stretches back to possibly the 5th century — a sacred space layered with art, faith, and centuries of Veronese history.

Step inside Castelvecchio, a striking 14th-century fortress built from red brick that sits proudly on Verona’s riverbank. What looks like just a historic castle from the outside transforms into a treasure trove of Italian art and history once you step through its gates. The main building houses a captivating collection of medieval sculptures and Renaissance paintings, making it a must-see for art lovers. But the fun doesn’t stop there—explore the castle’s ramparts for sweeping views and a sense of adventure, especially great for families with kids who love running around historic fortifications. Cross the adjoining bridge for a picture-perfect moment over the river, or catch a concert or art exhibition hosted by the Circolo Ufficiali, a private club for army officers.

Palazzo Maffei, a grand Renaissance edifice on Verona’s Piazza delle Erbe, dates back to the 15th century but was extensively expanded and embellished in the 17th century by the Maffei family. Its Baroque façade, completed in 1668, features five arched windows at ground level, ornate balconies, and a striking top adorned with statues of classical deities, including Hercules and Venus. The interior houses a fascinating spiral stone staircase connecting the underground vaults to the roof, while today, the palace also hosts a contemporary art collection in its noble floors, welcoming visitors to explore Verona’s artistic heritage.

Santa Maria in Organo is a historic Catholic church nestled in Verona’s Veronetta district. Its roots likely extend back to the 6th century, built on the site of an ancient Roman road. The church was established by the Vallombrosan monks in the 13th century and later expanded through donations from local noble families, notably the Della Scala. Its architecture reflects centuries of religious devotion, and it houses significant artworks that testify to Verona’s spiritual heritage. Despite modern alterations, Santa Maria in Organo remains a tranquil sanctuary in the city’s lively historic quarter.

The Arco dei Gavi is a rare gem from ancient Rome, originally built in the mid-1st century to honor the Gavia family. Once standing just outside Verona’s Roman walls, this monumental arch became a Renaissance favorite, studied and admired by architects and artists like Palladio and Bellini. Though it was dismantled in 1805, skilled restorers reassembled it — piece by piece — in 1932, and today it graces the small Castelvecchio square. This historic relic offers a glimpse into Roman craftsmanship and Verona’s artistic heritage, inspiring countless designs in the city’s churches and homes.

San Bernardino is a historic church in Verona, originating from the 15th century. Built between 1451 and 1466, it exemplifies Gothic ecclesiastical architecture and is notable for its richly decorated interior, featuring numerous chapels adorned with frescoes and artworks by prominent local painters of the Renaissance, including Francesco Benaglio and Giovan Francesco Caroto.