Verona, the city of romance, history, and art, is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Italy. Known worldwide as the setting for Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” this charming city offers much more than its famous love story. From ancient Roman ruins to medieval architecture, Verona’s rich cultural heritage is best explored at your own pace. City Sightseeing Verona’s Hop-On Hop-Off bus provides the perfect way to do just that, allowing you to hop on and off at key attractions as you discover the city’s highlights. Here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your visit to Verona.
Start at Piazza Bra and the Arena di Verona
Begin your day at Piazza Bra, the largest square in Verona and the starting point for many visitors. Hop off the bus here and take in the bustling atmosphere, surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and restaurants. The star of Piazza Bra is undoubtedly the Arena di Verona, a remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheater dating back to the 1st century AD. The Arena is still used today for opera performances and concerts, making it one of the best-preserved ancient structures of its kind. Take a guided tour to learn about its history, or simply marvel at its grandeur from the outside.
After visiting the Arena, take a leisurely stroll around Piazza Bra to admire the palaces and gardens, or grab a coffee at one of the many cafes lining the square.
Juliet’s House and Piazza delle Erbe
Next, hop back on the bus and make your way to Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta). No trip to Verona is complete without visiting the supposed home of Shakespeare’s Juliet. Here, you can see the famous balcony, explore the small museum, and even leave a love note on the walls, as many visitors do. While the connection to Shakespeare’s character is purely fictional, the house itself is a beautiful example of a medieval Veronese building and offers a unique glimpse into the city’s romantic side.
From Juliet’s House, take a short walk to Piazza delle Erbe, Verona’s oldest square. This lively marketplace has been the center of city life for centuries, and today it’s filled with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. The square is surrounded by stunning architecture, including the Torre dei Lamberti—a tower you can climb for panoramic views of the city—and the frescoed Mazzanti Houses. Be sure to take some time to explore the square and its surroundings, perhaps stopping for lunch at one of the many restaurants offering traditional Veronese cuisine.
Castelvecchio and the Adige River
In the afternoon, hop on the bus again and head to Castelvecchio, a 14th-century fortress that now houses a museum with an impressive collection of medieval and Renaissance art. The castle itself is a remarkable example of Gothic architecture, with its crenellated walls and imposing bridge, the Ponte Scaligero, which spans the Adige River. Explore the museum’s galleries, which include works by artists such as Pisanello and Paolo Veronese, and take a walk along the bridge for beautiful views of the river and the city.
After visiting Castelvecchio, consider taking a stroll along the Adige River. The riverside walk offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city and provides some of the best views of Verona’s historic skyline. If time permits, you can cross one of the river’s many bridges to explore the quieter, more residential parts of Verona, where you’ll find charming streets and hidden gems.
City Sightseeing Verona’s Hop-On Hop-Off bus is an ideal way to explore the city, offering convenience and flexibility as you discover Verona’s many attractions. From the ancient Arena and romantic Juliet’s House to the historic Piazza delle Erbe and the majestic Castelvecchio, this itinerary takes you through the best of Verona’s sights. Whether you’re a history lover, a romantic at heart, or simply looking to soak in the atmosphere of this beautiful city, Verona has something for everyone. So, hop on the bus, and let the magic of Verona unfold before you.
