This low-key Italian city offers a relaxing alternative to Venice's crowds

Most travellers treat Italy's Verona as a 'day-trip' city - if they even visit at all.

Just an hour's train ride from both Milan and Venice, tourists tend to stop in on the city, visit Juliet's balcony, have lunch, and head on out.

But Verona truly is a tourist destination in its own right, as highlighted by the fact that it's the stage for the closing ceremony of the Olympic Winter Games.

READ MORE: If you're an aisle seat person on a plane you may want to read this

So why Verona?

The city is steeped in history - from 2000-year-old amphitheatres to Renaissance-era castles mere minutes from each other.

And unlike Rome or Florence, the historic centre is small and very pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to get around at a leisurely pace.

Perhaps the city is most well-known for being the setting for Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, to which visitors can see references all over the city.

There's even a balcony you can visit, just like the one in the play from which the star-crossed lovers declare their mutual attraction. (Yes, it was built in 1930, so it's not the real deal, but still cool to see.)

READ MORE: Here are the cheapest places to fly for Easter this year

Things to do in Verona

History buffs usually make a beeline for the Verona Arena, which has over 2000 years of history, predating Rome's famous Colosseum. It's also a magnet for music lovers, as one of the world's most atmospheric opera venues.

Book tickets online to avoid long queues.

Casa di Giulietta, or Juliet's House, is a must-visit, even if there's technically no proof that Shakespeare even visited Verona.

The tower house is from the 13th century, though the balcony was added just 100 years ago. It's not really worth paying to go inside, but fun to see the vibe and hit up the gift shop.

Walk across the famous Ponte Pietra, the city's oldest bridge, which offers great views of Verona.

Watch the sunset at Castel San Pietro for panoramic views of Verona's terracotta rooftops and the winding river through its centre. You can take a 19th-century funicular or hike the stairs up to this hilltop fortress.

Enjoy a coffee and people-watch at Piazza delle Erbe, the city's main square. It's far more laid back (and has cheaper cafes) than the other major Italian cities, and is a good place to pick up some souvenirs.

Is it worth visiting Verona?

Verona is often overshadowed by Venice, but it offers a more relaxed, authentic Italian experience with significantly fewer crowds. If you want a laid-back trip, filled with history, sightseeing, and great food, Verona is for you.

You don't need too long here - it is a compact, walkable city, making it perfect for a low-stress two-day stay on your Italian itinerary.

What food is Verona famous for?

Veronese cuisine is hearty and traditional - less about pizza and more about rich, slow-cooked meats and unique pastas.

Don't miss the city's signature dish, Amarone Risotto, which is cooked in red wine and beef broth for a rich, deep red meal.

Cheese lovers should also seek out Monte Veronese Cheese, made in the nearby hills.

If you're game, another local delicacy is horse meat stew, cooked with red wine, onions, and herbs until it's incredibly tender.

Was Romeo & Juliet filmed in Verona?

Most film adaptations of Romeo and Juliet were not filmed in Verona, despite being set there. Baz Luhrmann's movie was filmed in Mexico, while most other movie versions of the play were filmed elsewhere in Italy.

The 1912 silent film adaptation and some scenes from Letters to Juliet (2010) were shot in Verona.

What is the best month to visit Verona?

September is widely considered the ideal month for a trip to Verona. July and August can be too hot, but by September, it hovers around 24°C. September coincides with the famous Opera Festival in the city as well.

It is also the start of the wine harvest in the nearby Valpolicella region, making it a perfect time for vineyard tours.

As for how cold does it get in Verona, average highs in January, the coldest month, are about 7°C, dropping to 1°C or 0°C overnight.

Where is the Winter Olympics 2026 Closing Ceremony being held?

Verona Arena will host the Closing Ceremony for the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games. The Roman amphitheatre in the heart of the city of Verona is over 2000 years old, and was once the battleground for ancient Gladiator games.

The opening ceremony of the Winter Paralympics will also be held here.

View gallery

These hidden places in Italy offer an escape without the crowds