Events and Things to Do in Verona: My Verona Journey Series, Part 4

Thank you for reading this article! You’re about to embark on an unforgettable journey through Verona, a city brimming with rich history, vibrant culture, and experiences that will stay with you long after you leave. This is part of “My Verona Journey”: A First-Timer’s Travel Guide to Exploring, Experiencing, and Remembering the Heart of Verona, a book by Obehi Ewanfoh. Prepare to discover Verona from a fresh perspective, one that will create lasting memories for years to come.

Learn How to Leverage Your Story through our Story To Asset Framework.

By now you probably get the picture I am painting for you here that Verona isn’t just a city to see but to experience. From world-class cultural events to immersive local festivals, Verona is brimming with things to do throughout the year.

Whether you are an art lover, a history enthusiast, or just someone looking for fun, this chapter will guide you through the best events, experiences, and activities to enjoy during your visit. So, let’s dive into the magic of Verona and discover how to make the most of your trip.

The Verona Opera Festival – A Must-See Cultural Event

One of Verona’s most iconic cultural experiences is the Verona Opera Festival, held every summer in the Arena di Verona. This spectacular event transforms the ancient Roman amphitheater into a world-class opera venue, where some of the most famous operas, including Aida, La Traviata, and Carmen, are performed under the stars.

The Verona Opera Festival is one of the largest and oldest opera festivals in the world and attending a performance in the Arena is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The acoustics in the Arena are extraordinary, and the setting, with the grand, historic backdrop of the arena and the surrounding city, creates an unforgettable atmosphere.

Your Tip: There is no doubt you will love it. All you have to do it make sure to book your tickets in advance, as these performances are extremely popular, especially during the summer months.

2. Juliet’s Balcony and the Feast of St. Juliet

Every year, Verona celebrates Valentine’s Day in a grand way, as the city is famously associated with Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. On February 14th, Verona hosts a celebration of love around the city’s most famous landmark, Casa di Giulietta (Juliet’s House).

Thousands of lovers visit the balcony where Juliet is said to have stood, and the streets are filled with romantic events, concerts, and celebrations.

See also 252 Restaurants To Pick From In Perugia, Italy

Your Tip: If you are in Verona during Valentine’s Day, be prepared for crowds at Casa di Giulietta. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in the early morning or later in the evening, when there are fewer tourists.

3. Vinitaly – A Wine Lover’s Paradise

For wine enthusiasts, Vinitaly, featuring about 4,600 exhibitors from 35 countries and 125,000 visitors is an event you won’t want to miss. Held every year in April, Vinitaly is the world’s largest wine fair, attracting producers, experts, and connoisseurs from all over the globe.

While the main event takes place at the Verona Fairgrounds (Fiera di Verona), you will also find special wine tastings, vineyard tours, and wine-focused events taking place throughout the city.

The Veneto region, and Verona in particular, is known for its high-quality wines, including Amarone della Valpolicella, Valpolicella, Soave, and Prosecco. If you visit during Vinitaly, it’s the perfect time to sample wines and learn about the region’s centuries-old winemaking traditions.

See also Verona Top Visits: History And Tourism In Verona, Italy

Your Tip: If you are not attending the event itself, many wine bars and restaurants in Verona host special tastings and events during Vinitaly week. This is an excellent opportunity to discover local wines and meet passionate producers.

Verona in Love – The City’s Romance-Focused Festival

In February, Verona in Love transforms the city into a romantic wonderland, celebrating everything that makes Verona a destination for lovers.

The festival is centered around Casa di Giulietta (Juliet’s House) and includes activities such as guided tours, romantic concerts, theatrical performances, and even a romantic picnic in the city’s beautiful gardens.

While the well-known spots linked to this famous story—like Juliet’s House and the iconic balcony—are a must-see for any romantic visit, there are countless other secret places in the city that offer a more intimate, less crowded experience.

For those looking to uncover Verona’s hidden romantic treasures, Lorella Mostacchi of Verona Tours is a fantastic guide. She takes couples off the beaten path, revealing picturesque corners of the city, such as the peaceful, medieval cloister next to the Duomo or the quiet streets near the cathedral, perfect for getting lost in the charm of Verona’s ancient architecture.

For a truly memorable romantic experience, don’t miss the breathtaking views from Castel San Pietro Hill at sunset, or enjoy a leisurely meal at Osteria Ponte Pietra, where the terrace hangs over the Adige River, offering a perfect setting for a romantic dinner.

Another hidden gem is Piazza Brà Molinari, a small, tranquil square offering panoramic views of the river and Castel San Pietro Hill, ideal for a quiet moment with your loved one.

For a unique twist on the classic Valintine’s day experience, take a stroll across the Castelvecchio Bridge at night, where the medieval beauty of the bridge is illuminated by moonlight, setting the stage for a final, unforgettable romantic walk through the city.

Your Tip: The Valentine’s Day weekend is the peak of the festival, so if you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting earlier in the month when the celebrations are still in full swing but a little less busy.

Verona’s Outdoor Activities – Explore the City’s Surroundings

While Verona is known for its rich history and culture, it also offers plenty of opportunities to connect with nature and explore its beautiful surroundings. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll, hike, or bike ride, Verona is a city that’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

1. Giardino Giusti – The Beautiful Historic Garden

The Giardino Giusti is a magnificent Renaissance Garden located just outside the city center. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful walk surrounded by lush greenery, statues, fountains, and centuries-old cypress trees.

The garden was designed in the 16th century as a stunning example of Italian Renaissance Garden design. It boasts a rich variety of plants, elegant statues, and graceful fountains, creating a serene atmosphere.

See also Historic places to visit in Verona, Italy

From the garden, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of Verona’s historic center, the surrounding hills, and the tranquil Adige River. Nestled in the heart of the city, Giardino Giusti offers a peaceful escape, making it the perfect spot to relax and take in the breathtaking scenery.

Your Tip: If you are visiting in the warmer months, be sure to bring a bottle of water, as the gardens can get quite hot in the summer.

2. Hiking and Walking Trails in the Hills of Verona

Just beyond the city, the hills around Verona offer some wonderful hiking trails with breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside. One popular route is the Castel San Pietro Walk, which takes you up to the Castel San Pietro and offers panoramic views of Verona’s historic center, including the famous Adige River.

Your Tip: The walk up to Castel San Pietro can be a bit steep, so wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for a bit of a workout! Once you are at the top, you will be rewarded with one of the best views in Verona.

3. Cycling Along the Adige River

For a more relaxed outdoor experience, rent a bike and cycle along the Adige River, which offers scenic paths through the countryside and past vineyards. Many bike rental shops in Verona offer e-bikes, making it easy to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace.

Your Tip: A guided wine and bike tour is a fantastic way to explore the beautiful vineyards outside the city while sampling some of the region’s finest wines.

7. Shopping in Verona – Local Crafts, Fashion, and Souvenirs

If you love shopping, Verona has something special for you. From high-end boutiques to charming artisan shops, Verona’s shopping scene offers a mix of fashion, local craftsmanship, and unique souvenirs.

1. Piazza delle Erbe Market

The bustling Piazza delle Erbe is the perfect place to shop for local goods. The market here sells everything from fresh produce and flowers to handmade jewelry, scarves, and artwork. It’s a great spot to pick up a souvenir that will remind you of your time in Verona.

Your Tip: If you are looking for high-quality leather goods, Verona is home to some fantastic leather shops, offering everything from bags to shoes and jackets.

2. Via Mazzini – Verona’s High-End Shopping Street

For those interested in designer brands, Via Mazzini is Verona’s main shopping street, lined with high-end boutiques, fashion stores, and luxury brands. It’s the perfect place to treat yourself to something special or browse the latest fashion trends. Be aware that Via Mazzini is the busiest walking street in Verona.

See also Vinitaly Verona: Everything You Need To Know As A First-time Visitor

Journal Prompt: What experience in Verona are you most excited to try? Is there a particular event, outdoor activity, or local festival that stands out to you? Write down your thoughts and expectations for your Verona adventure.

Verona is a city that knows how to captivate and inspire its visitors. From unforgettable cultural events to outdoor adventures and charming local festivals, there’s always something happening here.

Whether you are in the city for a short stay or a longer visit, the experiences you have in Verona will create memories that last a lifetime.

But how should you capture your memories during your Verona first trip? That’s exactly what we will explore in the next chapter of this book. So, stay tuned!

Prepare to savor every moment in this unforgettable city. All of this—and more—awaits in “My Verona Journey”: A First-Timer’s Travel Guide to Exploring, Experiencing, and Remembering the Heart of Verona, by Obehi Ewanfoh.