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BLOG, DESTINATIONS, EUROPE, ITALY · January 13, 2020

Amazing Things to Do & See in Verona, Italy


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.

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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.

Sunset_Castel_San_Pietro_Verona

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.

Things_to_do_in_Verona

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. 

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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.

Piazza_Delle_Erbe_Things_To_Do_Verona_Italy

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!

Road_Trip_to_Lake_Garda

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.
Things_To_Do_In_Verona_Italy

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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All aboard… The train from Kandy to Ella in Sri All aboard…

The train from Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka! This 7 hour train journey transports you from the chaotic city streets of Kandy to the misty mountain tops of Ella. 

It is known as one of the most picturesque train journeys in the world. So does it live up to the hype? Is it worth the 7 hour ride? 

To me, yes, yes, 100% yes. Especially when tickets can be less than $5 USD…After reading tons of guides & then experiencing the train myself, a few tips for your trip:

🎟️ Buy reserved tickets in advance. This will help ensure you have a seat & don’t have to elbow your way for one. You can do so online or at the train station. Online tickets go on sale a month before and sell out quickly! If you buy from the train station, go a day or two in advance of your desired trip date.
⏰ Try to avoid weekends. This is a very very busy train for locals & tourists alike. Book the blue Express train, otherwise this journey will take even longer than 7 hours lol. 
🚂 Choose seats in 2nd or 3rd class, ideally next to a window. In these classes they have open windows & doors where you can get the full experience (& views) to peak out of. If you choose to hang your body, arm, leg, etc out of the train, you do so at your own risk! Don’t be dumb…
📸 Best views are on the right side of the train up to Nanu Oya. After that, best views are on the left side. Aka views are amazing on both sides! You can also move freely around the carriage, so don’t stress it. 

Last tip, enjoy!!! Take it all in. With your eyes, not just your phone & camera 😏. This is by far the best train ride I’ve experienced to date.
Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka is rumored to be one of Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka is rumored to be one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. 

The train ride is around 7 hours total - zipping past swirling green tea hills, tiny rural towns, rushing waterfalls & colorful stations. 

7 hours might sound like a lot, but I can honestly say, I never found myself bored. Quite the opposite! I was glued to the window (or open doorway 🫠) for fear of missing a single moment. 

As you might have noticed, this train has open windows & doorways that passengers can peak out of. Would you (safely!) give it a try?
If you’re a plant lover like me, you need to add If you’re a plant lover like me, you need to add the Square Peg Hotel in Kandy, Sri Lanka to your bucket list! 

Potted plants overflow from the hotel’s windows and walls, intertwining with trees along its edges, giving the hotel a captivating, post-apocalyptic charm. In the best way..

Square Peg offers a calm oasis overlooking the rowdy city of Kandy just below. The views & this property exceeded our expectations in every way! 🌿
Postcards from Kandy, Sri Lanka. A city equal part Postcards from Kandy, Sri Lanka. A city equal parts chaotic, vibrant & sacred. A city full of competing sounds - cawing crows, bleating tuk tuks, thrumming drums & whining brass horns. A city I had low expectations for, but left wishing I had more time. 

We stopped over in Kandy to take the famous Kandy to Ella train (more on this later!) & were glad to have some time to explore the city, albeit short. Here’s a mini 24 hour guide to Kandy:

DO // At the center of the city is Kandy Lake. Leisurely wander through town taking in the sights along the way. Next to the lake is the Kandyan Cultural Center where you can experience a traditional Kandyan dance performance. After the performance, head next door to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world. 

STAY // The Square Peg Hotel was an oasis overlooking the city. In addition to the incredible views, they also have a gorgeous rooftop where they serve traditional curries in the evening & Sri Lankan breakfast in the morning.
This time last year Dave surprised me with an over This time last year Dave surprised me with an overnight trip to Anza Borrego Desert State Park, and it’s still one of my favorite weekend trips we’ve done while living in San Diego. Here’s a mini guide and some inspo to make the trip! 

GETTING THERE // The park is a super easy and very scenic 2 hour drive from San Diego. Stop in Julian on your way for a slice of their famous apple pie and a trip seemingly back in time. 

STAY // @bungalowsofthedesert_ offer adorable vintage trailers with everything you need to be comfortable (think firewood, gas stove, & tea kettle) yet still get the benefits of camping (think dark starry nights & no neighbors for miles). 

SEE // Font’s Point at sunset is a can’t miss with views across the badlands that i imagine are akin to Mars. Check out my latest reel for a few tips on how to get there.

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All aboard… The train from Kandy to Ella in Sri All aboard…

The train from Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka! This 7 hour train journey transports you from the chaotic city streets of Kandy to the misty mountain tops of Ella. 

It is known as one of the most picturesque train journeys in the world. So does it live up to the hype? Is it worth the 7 hour ride? 

To me, yes, yes, 100% yes. Especially when tickets can be less than $5 USD…After reading tons of guides & then experiencing the train myself, a few tips for your trip:

🎟️ Buy reserved tickets in advance. This will help ensure you have a seat & don’t have to elbow your way for one. You can do so online or at the train station. Online tickets go on sale a month before and sell out quickly! If you buy from the train station, go a day or two in advance of your desired trip date.
⏰ Try to avoid weekends. This is a very very busy train for locals & tourists alike. Book the blue Express train, otherwise this journey will take even longer than 7 hours lol. 
🚂 Choose seats in 2nd or 3rd class, ideally next to a window. In these classes they have open windows & doors where you can get the full experience (& views) to peak out of. If you choose to hang your body, arm, leg, etc out of the train, you do so at your own risk! Don’t be dumb…
📸 Best views are on the right side of the train up to Nanu Oya. After that, best views are on the left side. Aka views are amazing on both sides! You can also move freely around the carriage, so don’t stress it. 

Last tip, enjoy!!! Take it all in. With your eyes, not just your phone & camera 😏. This is by far the best train ride I’ve experienced to date.
Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka is rumored to be one of Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka is rumored to be one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. 

The train ride is around 7 hours total - zipping past swirling green tea hills, tiny rural towns, rushing waterfalls & colorful stations. 

7 hours might sound like a lot, but I can honestly say, I never found myself bored. Quite the opposite! I was glued to the window (or open doorway 🫠) for fear of missing a single moment. 

As you might have noticed, this train has open windows & doorways that passengers can peak out of. Would you (safely!) give it a try?
If you’re a plant lover like me, you need to add If you’re a plant lover like me, you need to add the Square Peg Hotel in Kandy, Sri Lanka to your bucket list! 

Potted plants overflow from the hotel’s windows and walls, intertwining with trees along its edges, giving the hotel a captivating, post-apocalyptic charm. In the best way..

Square Peg offers a calm oasis overlooking the rowdy city of Kandy just below. The views & this property exceeded our expectations in every way! 🌿
Postcards from Kandy, Sri Lanka. A city equal part Postcards from Kandy, Sri Lanka. A city equal parts chaotic, vibrant & sacred. A city full of competing sounds - cawing crows, bleating tuk tuks, thrumming drums & whining brass horns. A city I had low expectations for, but left wishing I had more time. 

We stopped over in Kandy to take the famous Kandy to Ella train (more on this later!) & were glad to have some time to explore the city, albeit short. Here’s a mini 24 hour guide to Kandy:

DO // At the center of the city is Kandy Lake. Leisurely wander through town taking in the sights along the way. Next to the lake is the Kandyan Cultural Center where you can experience a traditional Kandyan dance performance. After the performance, head next door to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world. 

STAY // The Square Peg Hotel was an oasis overlooking the city. In addition to the incredible views, they also have a gorgeous rooftop where they serve traditional curries in the evening & Sri Lankan breakfast in the morning.
This time last year Dave surprised me with an over This time last year Dave surprised me with an overnight trip to Anza Borrego Desert State Park, and it’s still one of my favorite weekend trips we’ve done while living in San Diego. Here’s a mini guide and some inspo to make the trip! 

GETTING THERE // The park is a super easy and very scenic 2 hour drive from San Diego. Stop in Julian on your way for a slice of their famous apple pie and a trip seemingly back in time. 

STAY // @bungalowsofthedesert_ offer adorable vintage trailers with everything you need to be comfortable (think firewood, gas stove, & tea kettle) yet still get the benefits of camping (think dark starry nights & no neighbors for miles). 

SEE // Font’s Point at sunset is a can’t miss with views across the badlands that i imagine are akin to Mars. Check out my latest reel for a few tips on how to get there.

Awin

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