Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow, and I’m thrilled to share with you my personalized 9-day itinerary for exploring the beautiful city of Verona and its surrounding areas in
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Verona
Kick off your Italian adventure by immersing yourself in the historic charm of Verona. Start your day at the iconic Verona Arena, a stunning Roman amphitheater that still hosts operas and concerts. Stroll through the lively Piazza Bra and visit Juliet’s House, the famous setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Don’t miss the picturesque Ponte Scaligero, a medieval bridge offering breathtaking views of the Adige River. For dinner, I recommend Osteria dal Cavaliere, a cozy trattoria serving delicious local specialties like risotto all’amarone and bigoli pasta.
Day 2: Lakeside Bliss at Lake Garda
Today, we’ll venture out to the stunning Lake Garda, a short drive from Verona. Start your day in the charming town of Sirmione, where you can explore the medieval castle and stroll along the lakefront promenade. In the afternoon, head to Malcesine, a picturesque village known for its narrow streets and panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. For lunch, I suggest Ristorante Belvedere, which offers a delightful terrace overlooking the lake – the perfect spot to savor fresh seafood and local wines.
Day 3: Uncovering Verona’s Hidden Gems
Today, we’ll delve deeper into the heart of Verona and uncover its lesser-known treasures. Begin your day at the vibrant Piazza delle Erbe, a lively market square surrounded by historic buildings and bustling cafes. Visit the impressive Basilica of San Zeno, a Romanesque masterpiece, and explore the imposing Castelvecchio, a 14th-century fortress that now houses an art museum. For dinner, I recommend Bottega del Vino, a cozy enoteca offering an extensive selection of local wines and delectable small plates.
Day 4: Valpolicella Wine Adventure
No visit to Verona would be complete without exploring the renowned Valpolicella wine region. Today, we’ll embark on a wine-tasting journey through the rolling hills and vineyards that produce some of Italy’s finest red wines, including Amarone and Ripasso. Visit family-run wineries, learn about the winemaking process, and savor the rich, full-bodied flavors of these exceptional wines. For lunch, I suggest Trattoria Dall’Amico, a rustic trattoria serving hearty dishes perfectly paired with Valpolicella wines.
Day 5: A Culinary Adventure in Verona
Today, we’ll indulge in the culinary delights of Verona on a food tour through the city’s vibrant markets, artisanal food shops, and beloved eateries. Start your day at the bustling Piazza delle Erbe market, where you can sample fresh produce, cheeses, and cured meats. Visit a local bakery to try the famous pandoro cake, and stop by an olive oil shop to learn about the region’s prized extra virgin olive oils. For dinner, I recommend Locanda Ristori, a cozy trattoria serving traditional Veronese dishes like pasta e fasoi (pasta with beans) and baccalà alla veronese (salted cod).
Day 6: A Day in Enchanting Venice
Today, we’ll embark on a day trip to the magical city of Venice, just a short train ride from Verona. Lose yourself in the labyrinth of canals, bridges, and narrow alleyways that make Venice so enchanting. Visit iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge, and take a gondola ride through the city’s famous waterways. For lunch, I suggest Osteria Al Portego, a charming osteria serving delicious Venetian specialties like sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines) and baccalà mantecato (creamy salted cod spread).
Day 7: Relaxation and Exploration in Verona
After a busy week of sightseeing, take today to relax and explore Verona at your own pace. Stroll through the city’s charming neighborhoods, browse the local boutiques and artisan shops, or simply find a cozy cafe and people-watch while sipping an espresso or a glass of Valpolicella wine. If you’re feeling energetic, visit one of Verona’s beautiful parks, like Giardino Giusti, or take a leisurely walk along the Adige River.
Day 8: A Day Trip to Mantua
For your final day trip, we’ll visit the nearby city of Mantua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Renaissance architecture and rich cultural heritage. Explore the majestic Palazzo Ducale, the former residence of the Gonzaga family, and stroll through the picturesque Piazza Sordello. For lunch, I recommend Osteria Ai Ranari, a cozy osteria serving traditional Mantuan dishes like pumpkin tortelli and stracotto d’asino (donkey stew).
Day 9: Arrivederci, Verona!
On your final day in Verona, take some time to revisit your favorite spots, pick up last-minute souvenirs, and savor one last delicious Italian meal before your departure. If you have time, consider visiting Enoteca Segreta, a hidden gem of a wine bar offering an extensive selection of Valpolicella wines and delectable small plates.
General Travel Tips for Verona, Italy
- Verona has an excellent public transportation system, including buses and trains, making it easy to explore the city and nearby areas without a car.
- Many attractions and restaurants in Verona are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
- Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially during peak seasons and for wine tours in the Valpolicella region.
- Fall is a beautiful time to visit Verona, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds than the summer months. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers.
- Don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes, as Verona is a very walkable city with many cobblestone streets and historic sites to explore.
I hope this itinerary has inspired you to plan an unforgettable trip to Verona and experience the authentic charm, rich culture, and delectable cuisine that this beautiful region of Italy has to offer. Buon viaggio!