Lake Garda, or Lago di Garda in Italian, is a crystal clear lake surrounded by alpine mountains. It is a popular holiday destination for Italians and Europeans alike. Many people think to visit the lake in the warmer months to enjoy sailing and swimming, but the winter time is arguably an equally stunning time to visit. Visiting Lake Garda in the winter also provides the bonus of avoiding the summer crowds, while still taking in all of the beauty the region has to offer.

How to Get to Lake Garda

Plane: Lake Garda is accessible from a number of major airports in Northern Italy. Verona, Venice, and Milan are reasonably close, and each city is worth visiting for its own history, charm, and astoundingly good food. Visit at least one of them before making your way to the lake.

Car: The easiest and most accessible way to reach Lake Garda is by car. Lake Garda is very spread out, so by renting a car you will have full independence on your itinerary. From Verona to Lake Garda is only 1 hour by car, while Milan to Lake Garda will take you 2.5 hours.

Train: Italy is incredibly well connected by train. There are trains to Lake Garda, but only to specific regions. I suggest using the trains to hop from Venice to Verona, and then picking up a car from there.

Where to Stay in Lake Garda

Lago di Garda is Italy’s largest lake and offers a variety of areas to explore. We chose to stay in the northern region, near Riva del Garda, known for its mountain biking, scenic hiking trails, and easy access to the lake.

Da la Babi $$ – A modern eco-friendly Airbnb nestled on an olive tree grove. Barbara and Nicola’s stunning property boasts sprawling views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains. Every morning we awoke to a homemade vegan breakfast made by Barbara herself, which still rivals any breakfast I’ve ever had. You’ll need a car to access the place, but the seclusion adds to the charm. 

Hotel Villa Enrica $$- If you want to be closer Lake Garda and the town of Riva del Garda along it’s edge, Hotel Villa Enrica offers the ideal location. Bonus: they offer terraced rooms with private hot tubs and postcard worthy views.

Eco Garda Hill $ – Private apartment with a balcony, mountain views, and stellar reviews!

Things to Do in Lake Garda in Winter

As previously mentioned, Lake Garda is quite big, so you will be spoilt for choice. From candy-colored promenades to jaw-dropping viewpoints, there is a little something for everyone. In efforts to ensure this post isn’t too long, I have put together a detailed article on 10 Awe-Inspiring Thing to Do in & Around Northern Lake Garda, but you can find those 10 attractions also listed below. 

• Visit Riva Del Garda
• Hike to Croce dei Colodri
• Sunset at Sentiero Busatte Tempesta
• Walk around Lago di Tenno
• Peruse Casarti Canale di Tenno
• Stroll Strada de Ponale
• Visit Arco Castle
• Marvel at Santuario Madonna Della Corona
• Cable car to the top of Monte Baldo
• Road trip through Northern Italy

Best Month to Visit Lake Garda

January / February

I think you can probably guess from the title and tone of this blog post that we would highly suggest visiting Lake Garda during the winter months. The truth is it ultimately depends what type of trip you are looking for. We visited in February, which provided very moderate temperatures, bright clear blue skies, and the ideal conditions for hiking and walking outdoors. My favorite part about visiting in winter was avoiding the crowds. Almost everyone we came in contact with was local to the area.

Does Lake Garda get snow in the winter? Yes, Lake Garda can get snow in winter, though it’s rare at the lower elevations near the lake. The surrounding mountains, especially in the northern region of Trentino, are often snow-capped starting in November, creating an even more magical and picturesque landscape.

For those looking to ski or snowboard, Monte Baldo or the Dolomites are great options nearby.

May / June

If you are keen to take advantage of warmer temperatures I would suggest visiting in spring. During these times you can still hope to avoid the summer rush, as well as stifling heat and humidity which comes with the regions peak visiting months in July / August.

Conclusion

I hope this guide has helped inspire you to visit Lake Garda in winter! If you find yourself with extra time to explore more of northern Italy, check out our post on Amazing Things to Do & See in Verona, Italy, as well as a Non-Touristy Guide to Things to Do & See in Venice, Italy. As always, let me know if you make the trip and any additional tips you find along the way!

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Lake Garda is quite large, with many beautiful towns to discover along its sparkling edges. After much research, we decided to focus our time in the northernmost region of the lake, a region called Trentino. This is an area filled with endless natural beauty – incredible hikes, jaw-dropping viewpoints, and mesmerizing lake views. Read on for 10 Awe-Inspiring Things To Do in & Around Northern Lake Garda.   

1. Hike to Croce dei Colodri

A local hike offering jaw-dropping views. This was nowhere on our itinerary until our Airbnb host Nicola at Da la Babi mentioned it. I’m so glad he encouraged us to go because it was a highlight of the trip. Input a church called St Maria Di Laghel into your navigation as your starting point. Parking can be found nearby, and to the left of the church is the beginning of the hiking trail.

The hike will take 30-40 minutes in total and is a descent uphill climb. You will know you have reached the top when you’re welcomed by Croce dei Colodri, a giant iron cross. Just beyond on the cross is the real treasure, sweeping views across Riva del Garda including arial views of Arco Castle, Lake Garda and the mountains in the distance. 

2. Sunset at Sentiero Busatte Tempesta

Talk about breathtaking panoramic views, the ones at Sentiero Busatte Tempesta cannot be missed! Sentiero Busatte Tempesta is a collection of walking trails and cliff side staircases, starting in Busatte and spanning along Lake Garda to a town called Tempesta. Hands down, the best views of Lake Garda we were lucky enough to witness.

Free parking can be found at the Busatte parking lot. From here, you will walk through Busatte Adventure Park before reaching the clearly marked entrance to the path. The walk is easy to moderate in difficulty, but definitely not advised for those afraid of heights! In total the walk is approximately three hours. I suggest giving yourself plenty of daylight to work with, but witnessing sunset here is something special. 

3. Visit Arco Castle

Sitting pretty, looking out over the city of Riva del Garda, is the beautifully regal Arco Castle. Arco Castle is a staple of the Garda Trentino landscape. The castle offers views across the town, valley and mountains surrounding. Cost of admission is only 3.50 euros. The castle is generally open from 10am-6pm. You can check for opening times through the link here.  

4. Walk around Lago di Tenno

Lago di Tenno is a crystal clear mountain lake featuring the most magnificent shades of aqua blue and green water. The lake is popular in the summer for swimming and boating, but during the winter the lake was quiet and serene. The surface of the lake laid flat and unwavering, like a perfect sheet of mirrored glass reflecting the snowcapped mountains and blue skies above. A walking path around the lake provides the perfect trail to clear your head and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

5. Peruse Casartisti Canale di Tenno

Just a 5 minute drive from Lago di Tenno is the medieval village of Casartisti Canale Di Tenno. This is the perfect place to stop for lunch or an afternoon snack while admiring architecture that will inevitably have you envisioning yourself as a character in a magical story book.

6. Stroll Strada de Ponale

Not too far from the city center of Riva del Garda is a lovely path called Strada de Ponale. A popular spot for biking, walking, and running with minimal incline and fantastic views along Lake Garda. Continue along the path for approximately one hour and be rewarded with stunning views alongside a well deserved pint and snack at restaurant Ponale Alte Belvedere.

7. Visit Riva del Garda

Nestled in the northernmost section of Lake Garda is Riva del Garda. The emerald green lake is surrounded by candy-colored hotels, with mountains towering across its outer edges. The masses flock here during the summer, but winter offers a quiet, tranquil oasis.

Wander the outer edges of the lake, with mountaintop views straight to the bottom. When you get hungry, make your way to Osteria il Gallo for a choice of seafood and classic Northern Italian dishes in a rustic and unassuming setting. 

8. Cable car to the top of Monte Baldo

The mountain range trailing the northeast side of Lake Garda is Monte Baldo. A 30-minute drive from Santuario Madonna della Corona will lead you to the Funivia (Cable Car) Malcesine Monte Baldo. This cable car provides 360-degree views of Lake Garda, Monte Baldo, and the many Italian villages below. From the top you can hike, ski, or even mountain bike. Be sure to check their website here for timetables and rates on passes.

9. Visit Santuario Madonna Della Corona

A cliffside chapel suspended between heaven and earth, Santuario Madonna Della Corona is a truly incredible sight to see. The centuries old church isn’t located directly on Lake Garda, but it is well worth the detour. The church is especially easy to access on your way to Lake Garda if you’re driving from Venice or Verona.  I have put together a post on how to get to Santuario Madonna Della Corona, including notes on the best photography spots to capture the divinity of this sanctuary.

10. Road trip through Northern Italy

There is incredible beauty and culture to be discovered across northern Italy. Each town unearths a different taste, style, and character. Starting in Venice, life is slow, the cicheti are plenty, and the Aperol spritz is flowing. A short train ride will find you transported to the medieval streets of Verona. Here, romantic stone alleyways pair perfectly with the candle-lit osterias, offering comforting bowls of risotto. Lastly, a winding drive through alpine villages leads to the towns of Trentino, where the air is cleaner and the world is wilder.

Where to Stay in Northern Lake Garda

Lago di Garda is Italy’s largest lake and offers a variety of areas to explore. We chose to stay in the northern region, near Riva del Garda, known for its mountain biking, scenic hiking trails, and easy access to the lake.

Da la Babi $$ – A modern eco-friendly Airbnb nestled on an olive tree grove. Barbara and Nicola’s stunning property boasts sprawling views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains. Every morning we awoke to a homemade vegan breakfast made by Barbara herself, which still rivals any breakfast I’ve ever had. You’ll need a car to access the place, but the seclusion adds to the charm. 

Hotel Villa Enrica $$- If you want to be closer Lake Garda and the town of Riva del Garda along it’s edge, Hotel Villa Enrica offers the ideal location. Bonus: they offer terraced rooms with private hot tubs and postcard worthy views.

Eco Garda Hill $ – Private apartment with a balcony, mountain views, and stellar reviews!

Conclusion

For more details on where to stay in Lake Garda, how to get there, and the best month to visit – check out our post on a Weekend Guide to Visiting Lake Garda. We had two days in the Trentino region, which was the breath of fresh air away from city life that we needed. If you have the ability to stay longer, I highly suggest it! I can say with certainty that I look forward to returning and exploring further into the Trentino-Alto Adige region of Italy. 

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“Church on Side of Mountain Italy”

Did you search something similar, trying to find what and where this picturesque church is? You are not alone. The sanctuary you are looking for is Santuario Madonna della Corona. It is an Italian church built into the side of a mountain, creating a wonderful collision between heaven and earth. It is not a myth, and it is even more beautiful than it sounds. Situated in Northern Italy, and within driving distance of Verona and Lake Garda, I highly suggest adding this to your itinerary if you are in the area.

How to Get to Santuario Madonna della Corona from Verona

The easiest way to reach Santuario Madonna della Corona from Verona is by car. There are train and bus options, but this requires multiple transfers and a bit more patience than we had time for. By car, there are two routes to reach this cliff-side church. 

1. Access to Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona from Spiazzi

Spiazzi is a small mountain town located just above Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona. From Spiazzi, you can easily walk or take a shuttle bus to the sanctuary. 

The drive from Verona to Spiazzi is a beautifully scenic one hour journey. You can park at Parcheggio Santuario Madonna della Corona, a free parking lot that is just a short distance to the walking paths and the shuttle. 

• Walking Path from Spiazzi

If you are able, I highly suggest walking to the sanctuary. The path provides sweeping views of the valley below and the surrounding mountain peaks. The trek is not difficult, and it takes roughly 30 minutes to descend and reach the sanctuary. This will still allow for a leisurely pace and enough time to take in the jaw-dropping sights.

There is a clearly paved path leading from Spiazzi to the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona. As you walk down, you will pass an alpaca farm on your left and a number bronze cast works by Raffaele Bonente along the way. As you near the church, there will be the option to reach the sanctuary with a set of steps or through a trail in the woods. 

• Shuttle Bus from Spiazzi

The shuttle departs every 30 minutes, but please note that it only operates June through October. Tickets are €1.80 one-way or €3.00 round trip. You can read more about the shuttle and book tickets here. 

2. Access to Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona Via Pilgrim’s path or Path of Hope

From the town of Brentino Belluno, you can instead hike upwards to the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona. We would have loved to take this route, but simply didn’t have the time. This used to be the only way to access the church, and I imagine the trail boasts some impressive views.

This hike is 2 hours in length, covering approximately 2,425 meters with 1,540 steps. From Verona, it is a 45 minute drive to Brentino Belluno. If you have ever done this hike, please let me know! I would love to hear how it compares to the walk from Spiazzi.

Best Time to Visit Santuario Madonna della Corona

The Sanctuary is open all year long: from November to March 8am-6pm and April to October 7am-7:30pm. You can double check opening times and holidays through the link here. We visited during winter, which offered beautifully crisp and clear conditions. I would also love to see the church in spring, when it is surrounded by a more lush, green forest. 

Best Photo Ops of Santuario Madonna della Corona

The Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona is one of those places that pictures can never truly do justice. That being said, my favorite view and photographs of the sanctuary come from the wooded walking path on the way down from Spiazzi. Peaking through the trees, this also served as our first glimpse of the church which made it all the more special. From this path, you can best capture the almost uncanny, cliffside placement of the church.
 
As you approach the steps leading up to the church, you can also capture some great close-up shots. This is the best way to capture the incredible architecture and detail of the Santuario Madonna della Corona. Please be mindful that the sanctuary is still a cherished place of worship for many, so you should always be respectful. If you choose to enter the church, ensure your shoulders and feet are covered and refrain from taking photographs.

Places to Visit Near Santuario Madonna della Corona

While visiting the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona, there are a few places along the way that are definitely worth the stop.

1. Verona

Verona is a great access point, as well as a wonderfully historic and charming city to visit. It can be accessed from the rest of Europe relatively easily by plane. If you are already in Italy, it is well-connected by train. If you do go, I’ve put together a post here on the Amazing Things to See & Do in Verona, Italy. 

2. lago di garda

Lake Garda is a crystal-clear lake surrounded by spectacular mountains. It is only 1.5 hours drive from the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona, and it is a famous holiday destination amongst Italians and Europeans. The lake is a perfect destination for swimming, sailing, hiking and mountain-biking. We stayed in the peaceful and naturally stunning town called Arco, located in the area of Trentino in Northern Italy. I can’t suggest this serene corner of Italy enough, especially in winter. If you make it, be sure to check out our Weekend Guide to Visiting Lake Garda, as well as 10 Awe-Inspiring Things to Do in Lake Garda while you’re there. 

3. Monte baldo

The rocky mountain that Sanctuary Madonna della Corona is nestled into is Monte Baldo. It is roughly a 30-minute drive from the sanctuary to the cable car Malcesine Monte Baldo. This cable car provides 360-degree views of Lake Garda, Monte Baldo and the many Italian villages below. Be sure to check their website for openings and rates on passes when planning your trip. 

Conclusion

Visiting Santuario Madonna della Corona will likely take you a bit out of your way, but I can confidently say that it is well worth the detour. Everything about it is striking.  From the cliff-hanging hidden location, to the sun stained pink architecture against the dark grey mountain, it truly is a special place to witness. I hope you found these tips helpful. As always, let me know if you make it! 

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Venice, Italy is an incredibly photogenic city with whimsical scenes, architecture and history around every corner. Many criticize the Italian city for being smelly and overcrowded. It is one of the most visited cities in the world after all, so that should come as no surprise! This is why I highly suggest visiting during. In winter there are not nearly as many crowds (as well as foul smells), and the weather can be really pleasant. Don’t just take my word for it. Here are 20 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Venice in Winter. 

If you can, dedicate at least one morning to wake up in time to watch the sun rise. The good news? If you visit during winter, you can count on sunrise being a tad bit later. I stayed at A Tribute to Music Hotel. I chose the hotel given its central location, but it also boasts insane views of the grand canal. Another benefit of a winter visit is that hotels are much cheaper. You can find rates at half of what you would pay during high season. This was ideal because it allowed me to consider hotels I would never have been able to afford otherwise. 

Famous locations and side streets, that would typically be mobbed with people in summer months, were busy but not overcrowded. I can honestly say that there was never a point where I was unable to see or photograph a location due to crowds of others trying to do the same. 

The only down side to visiting in winter is unpredictable weather. I visited in mid-January and the weather was absolutely beautiful. It was sunny and 65 degrees fahrenheit everyday. Winter usually brings more moderate temps, but it can also be rainy and cold. As you might have seen, Venice has been extra prone to floods recently. As much as you can, keep an eye on weather forecasts to choose a good time to visit. At the end of the day, weather is always going to be a gamble with anywhere you visit. 

I hope these photos provide a glimpse into the undeniable beauty of Venice in winter. If you decide to make the trip, definitely check out our post on What to See & Do in Venice. I’ve done my best to only include the must-sees and have-to-dos for a not-so-touristy itinerary. As always, I hope you found this post helpful, and let me know if you end up visiting! 

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No place in the world is like Venice, Italy. Canals wind through the city instead of streets and men artistically steering long wooden boats replace cars. Life is slower here and more intentional. It is a whimsical city, you’d have to assume could only exist in the movies. Venice gets a bad rep for being over touristy and crowded, but when done right, you’ll dream of returning. Read on for What to See & Do in Venice, Italy.

1. Bacari Tour Through Venice with a Local

My all-time favorite experience during the trip was a bacari tour through Venice, which I booked through Airbnb Experiences. ‘Bacaro’ or ‘bacari’ (plural) are Venetian wine bars. Polo led our tour. He grew up in Venice, and has an unwavering passion for the city. He took us to three of his favorite bacari, where mostly locals surrounded us. We stopped periodically for him to share history and stories about the city, pointing out areas of importance along the way.

Polo was incredibly knowledgable, but more importantly, it felt like wandering the streets with an old friend through their beloved hometown. After the tour ended, we decided to carry on – hopping from bar to bar, meeting locals, drinking Italian wine, and sharing stories of our travels into the wee hours of the next morning. A one of a kind experience that I will never forget.

2. Sample As Many Cicheti As You Can

Cicheti (or sometimes spelt ‘cicchetti’) are little bites on bread. Similar to tapas, but whatever you do, do not use the “t” word in Venice…They come topped with anything you like – roasted vegetables, cheese, fish, smoked meats and are served from ‘bacari’, which are typically whole-in-the-wall tiny taverns. Since they are small, the key is to sample one or two before moving onto the next bacaro.

In Venice, the most famous type of cicheti is called baccala mantecato. It is olive oil blended with salted cod into a creamy topping. Doesn’t sound that tasty, but I promise it is! Definitely check out Cantina Do Mori. It has been in business since 1462 and claims to be Venice’s oldest bacaro. You won’t be disappointed.

3. Have an Aperol Spritz..or 10

According to Venetians, the “Spritz” was invented in Venice. I’m not sure that is true, but I can confirm they make the best I’ve ever had. A spritz traditionally contains prosecco, Aperol (sweeter) or Compari (more bitter), and a touch of sparkling water. In Venice it is topped with a green olive. Refreshing and light. Perfect to pair with a cicheti or two. 

Note: if you order a spritz, you’ll likely be asked if you prefer Aperol or Compari. Try both! I’m a Compari gal myself. My favorite spots to enjoy a spritz were Osteria da Bacco and Al Merca.

4. Watch the Sunset in Venice at an Unexpected Place

In every city I visit, I always seek out the best spot for sunset. In Venice, my favorite view was at a very unexpected location, the rooftop terrace of the DFS Store. The DFS Store is a massive department store right by Rialto Bridge. The roof is dedicated as a viewing platform for customers. It offers an incredible vantage point over top of the red-roofed buildings of Venice with the canal running lazily below. 

Note: access to the terrace is completely free, but you need to book in a time slot ahead of time and all guests are limited to 15-minutes on the terrace. Reserve your spot through the link here. 

Another great spot to view the sunset is along the Grand Canal. Walk along the canal and find a picturesque spot (there are too many to choose from). When I visited there were a number of street performers playing music. It offered the perfect backdrop to watch the sun slowly slip beyond the horizon.

5. Snag a Photo & a Book at Acqua Alta Library

Acqua Alta Library has been made famous by Instagram over the past couple of years. Many of these sights I find to be highly overrated, but this one lived up to the hype. A tiny bookshop, covered from floor to ceiling in books. The place is beautiful chaos. And the best part? As you wander through the store, suddenly you are met by the canal right at the back doorstep. 

6. Indulge in a Massage at Reali Wellness Spa

My visit to Venice was a solo trip. The entire holiday was an amazing opportunity to relax, indulge, and reflect with plenty of much needed “me” time. What better way to treat yourself than with a massage? I chose a detoxifying massage at Reali Wellness Spa in Hotel Ai Reali. There are many spas in Venice, but I ultimately chose Reali Wellness Spa due to their beautiful facilities. For an additional 25 euros, you gain access to their Jacuzzi, emotional shower, Turkish bath, sauna, and a small rooftop terrace outside. The perfect way to spend my morning resting and recharging before hitting the town. 

7. See Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square) at Sunrise

I know, I know. Sunrise? I have to be kidding. Yes, the wakeup call will inevitably be rough, but I can almost guarantee it will be worth it. As you might have heard, Venice is a busy city. I mean very busy. In the wee hours of the morning though, no one is around and to experience that stark contrast is really something special. Not to mention, when the sun rises and casts its warm glow across the sun stained, white washed city, everything lights up the most brilliant shade of pink. Believe me, you’ll want to be around to see it.

Tip of the day – book a hotel along the water and a short walk from the square. You’ll be able to see the most incredible sunsets and sunrises from this location, and it’s just a short walk to all the sights. I stayed at A Tribute To Music Residenza and really enjoyed it. Hilarious name, unreal views. 

8. Marvel at St Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace

While wandering through Piazza San Marco, it is impossible to miss St Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. You can pay for a tour through both buildings. Personally, I loved spending my time simply admiring the architecture though. My suggestion? Grab a pastry and an espresso, make it there around sunrise, and watch the buildings light up and the city come to life as everyone slowly wakes up.

9. Ponder at the Bridge of Sighs

The Bridge of Sighs connects an interrogation room in the Doge’s Palace to the main building of the New Prison. It is said that as prisoners crossed the bridge, sighs could be heard as prisoners got their last glimpse of Venice through the two small windows. 

The Bridge of Sighs is made entirely from limestone, and is really worth seeing. It can be viewed one of three ways. My favorite view (and the easiest to access) is from Ponte della Paglia, a footbridge along the Grand Canal. The second viewpoint is from a gondola, sailing under the bridge. And the last option: you can actually walk across the Bridge of Sighs. This is included with paid entrance into the Doge’s Palace.

10. Gaze at Gondolas Passing Under the Rialto Bridge

Another beautiful bridge is the Rialto Bridge, a massive footbridge right in the center of the city. Next to St Mark’s Square, this is arguably one of the busiest parts of town. On either side of the bridge are staircases down to the canal. Grab a sunny spot and get a great vantage point of the bridge, tons of gondolas passing through and plenty of people watching. 

Bonus: there are tons of great bacari in this area. “Bacari” are taverns serving the traditional “cicheti”, little bites on bread. My favorites were All’ Arco and Al Merca.

11. Stay Long Enough to Get Lost in the Beauty of Venice

It might be tempting to only visit Venice for a night before hopping to the next city, but you would be mistaken. Around every corner and canal is something new to discover. Because of the small winding streets and abrupt dead ends where you’re met with water and no bridge, it is very easy to get lost in Venice and highly encouraged. My favorite sights were often found completely unexpectedly and that was only possible because I had plenty of time to relax, wander and enjoy. Stay at least two nights and thank me later.

As some of you might know, Venice has recently been experiencing terrible flooding. The city is literally sinking and this is largely in part from over tourism. Remember to be smart, be kind, and be respectful when visiting places so precious.

Conclusion

My visit to Venice was my first solo trip, ever. Anyone planning a solo trip, I highly recommend considering Venice. The beauty of traveling solo is you get to call the shots – you choose the places you see, the spots where you eat, and all the activities. I loved seeing the city at my pace. If you need more convincing to visit Venice, check out my post – 20 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Venice in Winter. I hope you find this post on What to See & Do in Venice, Italy helpful. As always, let me know if you make it!

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Verona wildly surpassed our expectations! Quick back story: on a recent trip to Munich, we met two friendly Italian couples who happened to sit at a table with us at the Hofbräuhaus. Helped by a few large steins of German beer, we became fast friends and exchanged invitations to our respective home cities: London for us and Verona for them. I’m sure neither of us imagined this unfolding, but fast forward a few months and we were itching for a trip. We had a quick scan for cheap destinations on Google Flights and Voila! Verona was top of the list. Our friends Erika and Enrico were incredibly generous during our stay, showing us their beautiful and beloved city from a local’s point of view. It was a trip we will truly never forget, and it goes to show that travel not only brings incredible sights and experiences, but amazing new friends along the way. Even after living in Verona their entire life, Erika and Enrico admire the city as if it was their first time, showing what a special place it really is. Read on for Amazing Things To Do & See in Verona, Italy.

1. Sunset at Castel San Pietro

Perched on a hill at the edge of the city is Castel San Pietro. A short 10 minute walk on a well-marked path, and you will find the best panoramic views in Verona. Grab a bottle of wine, head here for sunset, and you won’t be sorry.

2. See a Concert at Teatro Romano

Teatro Romano is located at the foot of the hill where Castel San Pietro sits. Only ruins remain, but you can still imagine the grandeur that once was. Stone-tiered seating is whimsically overgrown with grass and moss, the perfect backdrop to an open air concert or play. Check out Songkick to see if there’s a concert on during your visit. 

3. Wander Across Ponte Pietra

Over 2,000 years old, the Ponte Pietra was completed in 100 BC. Destroyed in World War II, the arched bridge has since been rebuilt and is more beautiful than ever. The bridge is located right by Teatro Romano and Castel San Pietro, so if you’re nearby it’s worth a stop to gaze at the river below.

4. Midnight Stroll Through Castelvecchio

My favorite part of Castelvecchio is the bridge you have to cross to reach it. Built in the 14th century, walking across Ponte Castelvecchio feels like being transported back to medieval times. Equally stunning during the night or day, this is definitely one of the can’t miss things to do in Verona, Italy!

On our first night in Verona, we weren’t quite ready to head home after finishing a late dinner. This is when Erika suggested we take a midnight stroll across Ponte Castelvecchio towards and through the Piazza delle Erbe. With hardly anyone else around, silence filled the usually bustling streets and orange glowing light illuminated the stone and marble architecture. It was impossibly romantic and I cannot suggest it highly enough. 

5. See an Opera at Verona Arena

Not quite as grand as the Coliseum, but the Verona Arena is arguably equally as stunning. The best part? It is fully operational and often hosts opera performances. We didn’t have an opportunity to make a show during our visit, but would love to go when we return. You can check for upcoming performances and buy tickets on their website here.  

6. Sightseeing & Shopping in Piazza delle Erbe

Located right at the center of the city, it would be hard to leave out but definitely should not be missed. The historic square features incredible architecture and great little stands, perfect for souvenir shopping. Many of the main historical landmarks are clustered here as well, including Torre dei Lamberti and Piazza dei Signori.

7. Indulge in Homemade Authentic Italian Food

Whether it’s pizza or paninis, risotto or osso buco, I think you’d be hard pressed to not find an Italian food to love. I personally adore them all and the Verona food scene can’t be missed. If you have a car, you HAVE to make it to a little place called Lui e Lei. A local’s spot in a strip mall with blow-your-mind-good pizza. Another favorite of mine was Osteria Trattoria Perbacco. A cozy little spot with local dishes, that feels like you’re eating in nonna’s kitchen. Unbelievably cheap. They run a lunch special offering choice of a homemade pasta dish, dessert, a glass of wine, bread and coffee for only 8 euros!

8. Road Trip to Lake Garda

Just a 1.5 hour drive from Verona to Lake Garda, this road trip is well worth the commute to experience the unbelievable nature of Northern Italy. Breathtaking mountain trails border this picturesque, crystal clear lake. Full post on our visit to Lake Garda coming soon!

9. Train to Venice

The train ride from Verona to Venice is only two hours. If you have time to spare, this is the perfect opportunity to check off a bucket list city from the list. I visited Venice on a solo trip and the city was unlike any I have ever seen. Winding canals, sun-stained pastel buildings, and hole-in-the-wall taverns serving the best Aperol spritz you’ll ever have. I’ve put together a post here on What to See & Do in Venice when you go as well as 20 Photos to Inspire You to make the trip.

Check GoogleMaps for the best route and times. You’ll ultimately book the train through Trenitalia. To avoid the crowds, definitely try to visit during winter months!

10. Maybe Avoid Casa di Giulietta

Casa di Giulietta is supposedly the balcony of Juliet’s family home in the classic love story of Romeo and Juliet. Sounds beautiful and romantic right? Wrong. This is a tourist trap. The courtyard is so swarmed with other humans, it is hard to even see the balcony. If you are going to check it out, which I wouldn’t suggest, be sure to go first thing in the morning.

Conclusion

Verona might not be the first Italian city that comes to most people’s minds when planning a getaway, however I think this is what I love about it most. Rather than feeling like a tourist, it is easy to imagine yourself as a local. It is a city I look forward to revisiting and rediscovering. Hope you enjoyed my tips on the best things to do and see in Verona, Italy. Leave a comment when and if you make the trip!

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