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How to Get to Verona and Explore the City?
Verona is one of Italy’s best-loved cities. Located on the banks of the River Adige in northeast Italy, Verona is a must-visit destination for any traveller keen to explore the history and culture of Italy. Whether you’re planning a romantic holiday or a family adventure, Verona offers something for everyone. But before you can experience all the delights the city has to offer, you need to know how to get there.
How to Reach Verona by Air
The main airport near Verona is Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN) also known asValerio Catullo Airport, located just 12 kilometres from the city centre. It has regular domestic and international flights connecting Verona to cities such as Amsterdam, Barcelona, London, Paris, Rome, and Vienna.
What Airlines Fly to Verona?
Verona is served mainly by scheduled airlines such as Alitalia, British Airways, Lufthansa, KLM, and Eurowings. Since 2019, Ryanair has also launched a number of connections to destinations across Europe and the Mediterranean with flights departing from Verona Airport every day.
Using Public Transport to Reach Verona
Travellers in Italy may also opt to reach Verona by bus or train. Both options offer a convenient and affordable way to get to the city and beyond.
Travelling by Train to Verona
Verona is well connected to major Italian cities by the Italian railway system. For example, the ‘Frecciarossa’ high-speed train from Milan takes just one hour and 36 minutes to reach Verona. Additionally, you can board direct trains from Rome to Verona, with a journey time of about six hours. From Venice, you can get to Verona in under two hours by ‘Frecciacoossa’. Book tickets online at www.trenitalia.com.
Travelling by Bus to Verona
There are plenty of bus operators servicing Verona and its surrounding cities. Marozzi is an Italian bus company that offers bus services between Marche and Abruzzo regions. You can book tickets online at www.marozzivt.it. Autostradale offers direct services to destinations such as Milan, Florence, and Rome. Tickets can be purchased at www.autostradale.it website.
Exploring the City of Verona
Verona is an incredibly beautiful city with a Mediterranean climate making it ideal for sightseeing all year round. The old centre of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its incredible architecture from various periods of history. Of particular interest are the Roman amphitheatre known as “The Arena”, the 5th century Porta Borsari gate, Piazza Erbe, Juliet’s House and balcony, Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore and many more attractions. Verona is ideal for travelers who enjoy good food and wine too. The city’s culinary scene is full of delicious dishes such as pasta alla Torriana, tomato tortellini soup, Risotto all’Amarone and of course a classic meat-filled pizza or two! You can also find some great traditional restaurants serving delicious Italian fare where you’ll be sure to try something new and unexpected. Verona is also one of Italy’s major hubs for culture and nightlife. The city centre is full of bars and clubs for a night on the town with live music, DJs spinning popular music, dance floors and more. Many restaurants also stay open late for dinner or drinks sometime well into the early hours of morning! Shopping in Verona is extremely varied since the city has both high-end boutiques selling top designer fashion and more affordable traditional shops with knick-knacks handmade by locals. Whether you plan an active holiday or just wish to unwind in an ancient setting, Verona will provide something for everyone. There is a lot to explore in this city and its surroundings, so bring your camera and make sure you don’t miss anything!
Insider’s Guide to Exploring Verona: A Journey into Local Life
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination that oozes Italian charm, Verona is the place to be. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Venice, Verona is a hidden gem, waiting to be explored.
Here’s our insider’s guide to exploring Verona:
Local Attractions: Uncovering Hidden Gems
Of course, you can’t miss Verona’s iconic tourist spots such as the Arena di Verona or Juliet’s balcony, but to experience the city like a local, you need to dive deeper.
For example, did you know that Verona is home to the oldest vineyard in Italy? A short bus ride from the city center will take you to the hills of Valpolicella. Here, in the hamlet of Gargagnago, you can visit the historic Bertani winery and sample some of the best local wines.
Or, if you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, take a stroll in Giardino Giusti, a stunning Renaissance-era garden tucked away in the city’s hills.
Dining Spots: Savoring Verona’s Culinary Delights
When it comes to food, Verona is a paradise for foodies. Known for its hearty dishes, Veronese cuisine blends northern Italian flavors with Austro-Hungarian influences.
One must-try dish is the classic pastisada de caval, a slow-cooked horse meat stew. If you’re not feeling too adventurous, try some homemade pasta such as Bigoli or Gnocchi ala Sorentina.
For a real taste of local culture, head to the heart of Verona’s historic center and take a seat in one of the many osterie. These small, family-owned eateries offer a warm welcome, local wine, and traditional dishes served with a side of Italian hospitality.
Cultural Experiences: Immersing in Verona’s Traditions
Verona is steeped in history and culture, making it a perfect destination for cultural immersion. The city is renowned for its summer opera festival, where you can catch a performance in the stunning Arena di Verona.
For art lovers, head to Castelvecchio museum, which houses an impressive collection of medieval and Renaissance paintings. Or, visit Casa di Giulietta – not just to see Juliet’s balcony, but also to experience the city’s love for Shakespearean literature.
If you’re in Verona during Christmas, don’t miss the traditional market held in the Piazza dei Signori, which boasts over fifty stalls selling locally-made food, gifts, and decorations.
Local History: Uncovering Fascinating Stories
Verona has a long and rich history that goes beyond the famous love story of Romeo and Juliet. Did you know that the city played a pivotal role in the Roman Empire? Or that Verona was one of the most important cities of the Venetian Republic?
To uncover more of the city’s hidden stories, head to the Ponte di Castelvecchio. This fortified bridge was originally built to secure the city’s borders and now houses the Museum of Verona’s History.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Where to Go Beyond Conventional
For a unique experience, head to Lake Garda, just a short drive from Verona. Here, you can stroll through colorful lakeside towns, engage in water sports, or simply relax on the beach.
Another unforgettable experience is a visit to Parco delle Cascate di Molina, a nature reserve famous for its waterfalls, streams, and rocky gorges.
Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous, visit Monte Baldo via the Monte Baldo Cable car and try hiking, paragliding, or mountain biking.
Conclusion: Falling in Love with Verona
With so much to offer, Verona is a city that is sure to capture your heart. From hidden gems to local cuisine and traditions, let Verona sweep you away in its timeless charm.
