Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow and a former resident of Italy. I lived in the beautiful city of Verona for two years, and I’m excited to share my insider tips for an unforgettable 13-day trip to this stunning region. Get ready to experience the authentic flavors, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes that make Italy so special.
Day 1: Explore the Romantic City of Verona
Start your Italian adventure in the charming city of Verona, known for its romantic atmosphere and stunning architecture. Begin your day at the iconic Piazza Bra, where you can admire the impressive Arena di Verona, a well-preserved Roman amphitheater that still hosts operas and concerts. Next, visit Juliet’s House, the famous setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, and rub the statue’s breast for good luck in love. Don’t miss the beautiful Ponte Scaligero, a medieval bridge offering stunning views of the Adige River. For dinner, I recommend Osteria dal Cavaliere, a cozy trattoria serving delicious local dishes like risotto all’amarone and bigoli with duck ragù.
Day 2: Explore the Enchanting 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 picturesque lakefront and enjoy a leisurely lunch at Ristorante Belvedere, savoring fresh lake fish and local wines. In the afternoon, take a boat tour or visit the quaint village of Malcesine, where you can ride a cable car to the top of Monte Baldo for breathtaking panoramic views.
Day 3: Indulge in the Valpolicella Wine Region
Prepare your taste buds for a delightful day exploring the renowned Valpolicella wine region. Start your tour with a visit to a traditional winery, where you’ll learn about the unique winemaking process and enjoy a guided tasting of the region’s famous Amarone and Recioto wines. For lunch, I suggest Trattoria alla Ruota, a rustic trattoria serving hearty local dishes like pasta e fasoi (pasta and beans) and bollito misto (mixed boiled meats). In the afternoon, visit another winery or explore the charming villages of the Valpolicella, such as San Pietro in Cariano or Fumane.
Day 4: Savor the Flavors of Verona
Today, immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Verona with a food tour through the city’s vibrant markets and historic neighborhoods. Start your day at the bustling Piazza delle Erbe, where you can browse the colorful stalls selling fresh produce, cheese, and local specialties. Visit the Antica Bottega della Scala, a historic bakery famous for its delicious pastries and breads. For lunch, enjoy a tasting of local cured meats, cheeses, and wines at Bottega del Vino, a cozy enoteca. In the evening, join a cooking class to learn how to prepare classic Veronese dishes like pasta e fagioli and pandoro (traditional Christmas bread).
Day 5: Discover the Enchanting City of Venice
Embark on a day trip to the iconic city of Venice, a true gem of Italy. Start your adventure in the iconic St. Mark’s Square, where you can admire the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Wander through the narrow streets and cross the famous Rialto Bridge over the Grand Canal. For a quintessential Venetian experience, take a romantic gondola ride through the city’s picturesque canals. For lunch, I recommend Trattoria da Luca, a cozy trattoria serving delicious Venetian specialties like sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines) and baccalà mantecato (creamy salt cod spread).
Day 6: Hike in the Lessinia Regional Nature Park
Escape the city and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Lessinia Regional Nature Park, a stunning area known for its rolling hills, forests, and charming villages. Embark on a guided hike through the park’s scenic trails, taking in the fresh mountain air and admiring the vibrant fall foliage. Stop for a picnic lunch featuring local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh bread from a nearby village. In the afternoon, visit one of the park’s traditional cheesemakers to learn about the art of cheese production and sample their delicious offerings.
Day 7: Explore the Renaissance City of Mantua
Today, venture to the nearby city of Mantua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Renaissance architecture and rich cultural heritage. Start your visit at the impressive Palazzo Ducale, the former residence of the Gonzaga family, and admire its stunning frescoes and art collections. Stroll through the picturesque Piazza Sordello and visit the Basilica of Sant’Andrea, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. For lunch, I suggest Osteria dell’Orsa, a cozy osteria serving traditional Mantuan dishes like pumpkin tortelli and stracotto d’asino (braised donkey meat).
Day 8: Learn the Art of Italian Cooking
Immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of Italy with a hands-on cooking class in Verona. Under the guidance of a local chef, learn how to prepare classic dishes like fresh pasta, risotto, and tiramisu. Discover the secrets behind authentic Italian cooking techniques and the importance of using fresh, seasonal ingredients. After your class, enjoy the delicious meal you’ve prepared, paired with a selection of local wines. In the evening, explore Verona’s lively Piazza delle Erbe and enjoy a leisurely aperitivo at one of the charming cafés.
Day 9: Discover the Architectural Gems of Vicenza
Embark on a day trip to the beautiful city of Vicenza, known for its stunning Renaissance architecture designed by the famous architect Andrea Palladio. Start your visit at the iconic Olympic Theatre, a masterpiece of Renaissance theater design. Stroll along the elegant Corso Palladio, lined with Palladio’s iconic palaces and buildings. For lunch, I recommend Ristorante Il Ceppo, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Vicentine dishes like baccalà alla vicentina (salt cod with polenta) and bigoli con l’arna (thick spaghetti with duck ragù).
Day 10: Relax and Shop in Verona
After several days of exploring, take a leisurely day to relax and indulge in some shopping in Verona. Start your morning with a stroll through the charming Piazza delle Erbe and browse the local markets for souvenirs and artisanal products. Visit the historic Via Mazzini, Verona’s main shopping street, where you’ll find a mix of high-end boutiques and local shops selling everything from leather goods to handmade jewelry. For lunch, enjoy a light meal and a glass of Valpolicella wine at Locanda Ristori, a cozy enoteca in the heart of the city.
Day 11: Explore the Historic City of Padua
Today, venture to the nearby city of Padua, a vibrant university town with a rich history and cultural heritage. Start your visit at the iconic Basilica of St. Anthony, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture and a popular pilgrimage site. Stroll through the picturesque Prato della Valle, one of the largest squares in Europe, and admire the beautiful statues and fountains. For lunch, I suggest Osteria Piero, a cozy osteria serving traditional Paduan dishes like bigoli co’l’arna (thick spaghetti with duck ragù) and baccalà alla vicentina (salt cod with polenta).
Day 12: Discover Verona’s Rich History and Art
Spend your final day in Verona exploring the city’s rich history and art. Start your visit at the impressive Castelvecchio, a medieval castle that now houses an art museum with an impressive collection of sculptures and paintings. Next, visit the Museo Archeologico, where you can admire ancient Roman artifacts and learn about Verona’s fascinating past. For lunch, enjoy a leisurely meal at Bottega del Vino, savoring local wines and traditional dishes like risotto all’amarone and bigoli with duck ragù.
Day 13: Arrivederci, Verona!
Sadly, your Italian adventure has come to an end. After a final stroll through Verona’s charming streets and a last gelato or espresso, it’s time to bid farewell to this enchanting city. Take with you cherished memories, newfound culinary skills, and a deeper appreciation for the rich culture and history of Italy.
General Travel Tips for Verona, Italy
- Dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable in the fall.
- Carry cash, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
- Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
- Book tickets for popular attractions like the Arena di Verona in advance to avoid long lines.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites.
I hope this itinerary has inspired you to explore the authentic beauty and rich culture of Verona and the surrounding regions. Remember, the best way to experience Italy is to embrace the local way of life, savor the flavors, and immerse yourself in the history and traditions that make this country so special. Buon viaggio!