Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow, and I’m thrilled to share my personalized itinerary for a week-long trip to Verona, Italy, during the beautiful fall season. Having lived in Italy for two years, I’ve gained a deep appreciation for the country’s rich culture, history, and cuisine. This itinerary is designed to help you experience the authentic side of Verona, away from the typical tourist traps, and immerse yourself in the local way of life.
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Verona
Start your journey by visiting the iconic Verona Arena, a stunning Roman amphitheater that still hosts operas and concerts today. Stroll through the lively Piazza Bra and admire the beautiful architecture surrounding the square. No visit to Verona is complete without a stop at Juliet’s House, the famous setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Don’t forget to rub the statue of Juliet for good luck! End your day with a leisurely walk across the Ponte Scaligero, a picturesque bridge over the Adige River. For dinner, I recommend Osteria dal Cavaliere, a cozy trattoria serving delicious traditional Veronese cuisine.
Day 2: Exploring Lake Garda
Today, embark on a day trip to the stunning Lake Garda, one of Italy’s most beautiful lakes. Start your journey in the charming town of Sirmione, known for its thermal springs and the impressive Scaliger Castle. Stroll along the lakefront promenade and enjoy the breathtaking views. In the afternoon, head to Malcesine, a picturesque village nestled at the foot of Monte Baldo. Take the cable car to the top of the mountain for panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding Alps. For lunch, I suggest trying the local lake fish at Greppia, a cozy restaurant with a lovely outdoor seating area.
Day 3: Discovering Verona’s History and Culture
Begin your day at the impressive Castelvecchio, a 14th-century castle that now houses an art museum. Wander through the castle’s courtyards and admire the stunning architecture. Next, head to the lively Piazza delle Erbe, a bustling square surrounded by historic buildings and outdoor markets. Climb the Torre dei Lamberti for panoramic views of the city. In the evening, enjoy a glass of local wine and delicious appetizers at Bottega del Vino, a cozy wine bar in the heart of Verona.
Day 4: Valpolicella Wine Region
Spend the day exploring the renowned Valpolicella wine region, located just outside Verona. Join a winery tour and learn about the production of the region’s famous red wines, such as Amarone and Ripasso. Participate in a guided tasting and savor the rich flavors of these exceptional wines. For lunch, I recommend Ristorante Greppia, a upscale restaurant that sources its ingredients from local farms and pairs its dishes with Valpolicella wines.
Day 5: Exploring Verona’s Hidden Gems
Start your day at the beautiful Giardino Giusti, a Renaissance-style garden with stunning landscaping and fountains. Next, visit the San Zeno Maggiore Basilica, a magnificent Romanesque church known for its intricate carvings and frescoes. In the afternoon, indulge in some shopping along Via Mazzini, Verona’s main pedestrian street lined with boutiques, cafes, and gelaterias. For dinner, I suggest Trattoria al Pompiere, a family-run trattoria serving delicious homemade pasta and other traditional dishes.
Day 6: Day Trip to Venice
Take a day trip to the enchanting city of Venice, just a short train ride from Verona. Explore the iconic St. Mark’s Square, marvel at the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica, and take a romantic gondola ride through the city’s canals. Wander through the narrow streets and discover hidden gems like the Rialto Bridge and the Gallerie dell’Accademia. For a true Venetian experience, enjoy a leisurely lunch of fresh seafood and pasta at one of the city’s charming bacari (traditional wine bars).
Day 7: Relaxation and Final Explorations
On your final day, start with a visit to the stunning Parco Giardino Sigurtà, a beautiful park known for its meticulously landscaped gardens and tranquil atmosphere. Spend the rest of the day exploring any areas of Verona you may have missed or revisiting your favorite spots. Take a leisurely stroll along the Adige River, sip a glass of local wine at a cozy enoteca, or simply relax and soak in the charming atmosphere of this historic city.
General Travel Tips for Verona, Italy
- Walking is the best way to explore Verona’s historic city center, but public transportation and taxis are also available for longer distances.
- Most attractions are open from 9 AM to 6 PM, with some closing earlier on Sundays. Plan accordingly and check opening hours in advance.
- Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants and wine tours, especially during peak season.
- Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local cuisine, including traditional dishes like risotto all’Amarone, pastissada de caval (horse meat stew), and pandoro (traditional Christmas cake).
- If visiting during the fall, be sure to attend one of the many wine festivals or truffle fairs in the region.
I hope this itinerary has inspired you to explore the authentic side of Verona and immerse yourself in the local culture. Remember, the best way to experience a destination is to embrace it like a local, and I’m confident that this itinerary will help you do just that. Buon viaggio!