7 Must-See Places in An Afternoon at Verona
An Afternoon Walking Tour Of Verona, Italy
Do you only have an afternoon to dedicate in Verona? With a walled city that has a cluster of fascinating sites and historical landmarks, all within a pleasant walking distance, it is easy to explore and have a distinct connection with this ancient city in just an afternoon.
Widely known as the setting of William Shakespeare’s famous romantic tragedy, Romeo and Juliet, Verona poignantly exhibits the grandeur of its Roman and Medieval heritage within and beyond its impressive fortress in what is aptly known as the City of Love.
Piazza Bra, one of the largest and busiest squares in Italy
The strategic layout of city streets and the position of gateways, open theaters, and one out of two bridges that have survived along the Adige River over the years clearly reveal the defensive elements during the Roman Empire in the first half of the first century.
While representing the Medieval era is the fortification of Verona’s vast expanse, the foundation of important buildings and watchtowers around town squares, and the rise of trade and commerce through the thriving establishments all within its walls.
This Venetian city’s long and heralded existence does run long. It would take a full weekend to visit all of them, or at least most. Yet, with these 7 must-see places in an afternoon at Verona, your curiosity is sure to be satisfied.
The inviting Portoni della Bra gateway to Verona’s historic city
Portoni della Bra
A few minutes away from Verona Porta Nuova train station, this main gateway to the ancient city gives rise to its Medieval history with the remains of the defensive pentagon tower, built in 1380. In the 19th century, a large clock was further embedded in its magnificent marble arches, befitting the notable landmarks that lay inside, such as the Museo Lapidario Maffeiano, the Arena Roman Amphitheater, the 400-year-old Palazzo della Gran Guardia, the lavish Piazza Bra, the trendy district of Via Mazzini, the Shakespearean balcony at Juliet’s House, Romeo’s House, the quintessential Piazza Erbe and the Medieval buildings around it, Juliet’s Tomb, and many others.
Another perspective of Piazza Bra
Piazza Bra
Considered one of the largest town squares of Italy and the most populated, as it strategically comprises the Palazzo Barbieri municipal hall of Verona. In this central garden, people love to relax amid nature, the Arena, the Philharmonic Theater of Verona, and the colorful buildings that house the restaurants and cafes, including the classical Palazza Honorji-Guastaversa, which was completed in 1555. This is one of the idyllic spots to drink and dine in Verona.
The Arena Roman Amphitheater takes center stage next to Verona’s Municipal Hall in Piazza Bra
Arena Amphitheater
This well-restored Roman Amphitheater dates back to 30 AD between the empires of Augustus and Claudius. Originally the center for beastly gladiator events, this elliptical arena in our modern times counts among the top tourist attractions in Italy, as well as the most prestigious venues for musical events and operas, holding a capacity of 22,000 spectators. Visitors can explore this Roman Arena daily with an interactive tour or as a photo-savvy observer.
The central garden
A favorite hang-out of tourists in Verona, this clover-shaped park boasts park benches amid lush gardens, flourishing trees, and a picturesque fountain. It poses as the idyllic spot to practice yoga or meditation, to let the children play in the grass, and to relax over refreshments like iced granita and cold coffee available at the park kiosks.
Close-up of Arena from the corner of Via Mazzini
Via Mazzini
Via Mazzini
This long road at the corner of Piazza Bra and the Arena is the busiest in this historic city, as it principally leads toward the houses of Romeo and Juliet and the ancient Romanesque Piazza delle Erbe.
It is also one of the most iconic walkways in Europe, representing ancient Rome in its first half and the Medieval era in the other, as well as housing top clothing, shoes, and underwear brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Guess, United Colors of Benetton, Nike, Victoria Secret Saint Laurent, Zara and more. Also on the lookout for this path are Italy’s most scrumptious artisan gelato makers.
The courtyard at Juliet’s House
