Sightseeing in Verona Italy

Verona is full of amazing Roman buildings, arches, and amphitheatres. These are the ones you really must see...

The Arena

This Arena has to be the main attraction in Verona. Built in 30 AD, this remarkable structure has survived for nearly twenty centuries, and despite losing a lot of arches in a twelfth-century earthquake, it is still in remarkably good shape.

The third-biggest of all the Roman amphitheatres, this is indeed an incredible place.

Try to attend one of the summer operas at the Arena, normally held in June, July, and August; this is a marvelous way of experiencing the Arena and can be an extremely moving experience.

For information on dates and tickets, visit the Arena site.

For a map of where the most important of these attractions are click here.

Arco dei Gavi (Gavi Arch)

The Arco dei Gavi, as it’s called, was once a proud landmark of Verona, standing tall since the 1st century. But, like so many things in Italy, history wasn’t always kind to it. When Napoleon’s troops came through in the 19th century, they decided it had to go—so down it went. Thankfully, in the 20th century, someone had the good sense to put it back together, and now it stands once more along Corso Cavour. Originally dedicated to the influential Gavius family, it’s a striking reminder of Verona’s deep Roman roots. Stop by and admire its elegant, timeworn beauty!

Porta Borsari

The Porta Borsari is situated in Corso Porta Borsari and is one of the original city gates, remarkably preserved and very impressive.  It's been welcoming travelers and merchants for nearly two thousand years.

One of my favorite things to do is sit at the little bar just below the gate, enjoying a cappuccino in the early morning when the streets are still quiet. It’s the perfect moment to imagine the hustle and bustle of Roman times, when chariots and traders passed through. An absolute must-see in Verona!

Porta Leoni

Porta Leoni is one of those places in Verona that many tourists walk past without realizing just how special it is. I always stop here for a moment, taking in the remains of the ancient gate and the fascinating archaeological site below. This was once the main entrance to the city, where Roman travelers would have passed through on their way into Verona. You can still see parts of the original walls and even sections of the old road beneath glass panels. It’s a little window into the past, a place where history feels alive beneath your feet!

The Roman Theater and Archaeological Museum

It is rather miraculous that anything survives of this 1st century theater. It is only thanks to the incredible foresight of a certain Andrea Monga that it does.

Mr Monga decided in the mid-19th century that unless something was done, the theater would be lost forever. The result was that this clever and wealthy gentlemen bought all the houses built on the site and demolished them.

Thanks to Andrea Monga, the theater is now the place to enjoy summer Shakespeare, ballet, and jazz concerts. Next door is the fascinating Archaeological Museum.

Entrance Fee to the Museum and Theatre:

• General Admission: €9.00
• Reduced Admission: €6.00 for groups (15+ people), seniors over 65, and concession holders
• Young Adults (18-25 years): €2.00
• Children (under 18): Free

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, with the last entry at 5:30 pm. It is closed on Mondays, December 25, and January 1.

Additionally, the Verona Card provides free entry to this site, along with other attractions, for €27 (24-hour card) or €32 (48-hour card).

Ponte Pietra

Destroyed by the Germans as they retreated from Verona during World War II, the bridge has been meticulously rebuilt using its original materials, preserving its historic charm.

The bridge takes on a magical quality on a summer night, its lights creating a warm glow that reflects off the water. It’s a picturesque sight, especially after a night of exploring the town, adding to the romance and beauty of the evening’s end.

Talking of romance, how about a romantic evening of fine wine and dining? Well, I have just the place: the Trattoria Amelia.

• There are two hotels in Verona you really must consider. Click for details!