Milan to Verona: A Luxurious Journey Through Art, Culture, and Romance
“This page may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through one of my links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Rest assured, I only recommend services and experiences I genuinely love and would happily share with a friend”.
The charming city of Verona, located in northern Italy's Veneto region, is conveniently situated only a two-hour drive from Milan and within close proximity to the stunning Lake Garda.
Due to its rich history, stunning architecture, and romantic charm, the city is an ideal destination for travelers seeking romance, culture, history, and natural beauty. The historic center, recognized for its exceptional architecture and urban design, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What is Verona, Italy, Known For?
Following the Footsteps of Romeo and Juliet
Juliet balcony in Verona
"When he shall die, take him and cut him out in little stars, and he will make the face of heaven so fine that all the world will be in love with night."
— Romeo and Juliet, Act III, Scene 2
Verona, the setting of Shakespeare's timeless love story, Romeo and Juliet, invites you to experience this iconic tale firsthand as you wander its historic streets.
A must-visit is Juliet's statue, created in 1969 by sculptor Nereo Costantini. Legend has it that touching Juliet's right breast brings good luck, making the courtyard of Juliet's House a bustling hub of visitors seeking fortune or a memorable photo.
The house itself, now a museum, features period furnishings, original costumes from Franco Zeffirelli's film, and the famous balcony—perfect for a romantic photo.
A short walk away is Romeo's House, where you can almost imagine him rushing out to see his beloved.
From Juliet’s House to Piazza Bra...
As you leave Juliet's House and walk towards Piazza Bra, you'll pass the Verona Arena. Walk beneath the Bra Gates, where a dramatic inscription plaque marks the Maffeiano Lapidary Museum entrance.
The words on the plaque echo Romeo's anguish upon being exiled from Verona for avenging his friend Mercutio's death:
"There is no world beyond Verona’s walls, but purgatory, torture, and hell itself. He who is banished from here is banished from the world, and exile from the world is death..."
The G.B. Cavalcaselle Museum of Frescoes, located at Juliet's Tomb, is just a short walk from Piazza Bra.
The museum is housed in a former Franciscan convent. Legend has it that Juliet was laid to rest in a marble sarcophagus outside Verona's walls so that her exiled love, Romeo, could reach her.
"Eyes, look your last!
Arms, take your last embrace!
And lips, O you the doors of breath,
Seal with a righteous kiss..."
(Inscription at Juliet’s Tomb)
Shakespeare and the Mystery Behind His Works
Romeo and Juliet isn’t the only Shakespearean play set in Italy. But how did the English playwright know so much about a country he never visited?
The most likely answer is that he borrowed from existing texts.
The tragic tale of two doomed lovers was already well-known. In the early 1500s, Luigi Da Porto wrote La Historia Novellamente Ritrovata, which closely resembled Shakespeare’s version and was a popular Venetian folk tale.
Verona Must-Visit Attractions:one-day Itinerary
Verona is a must-visit destination due to its many historical landmarks, including the Arena di Verona, a remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater that still hosts opera performances.
The city's charming piazzas, rich culinary scene, and medieval and Renaissance architecture add to its allure.
If you have just one day in Verona, maximize your time with this itinerary:
Morning: Start with a Verona walking tour to explore the city’s historic center:
Arena di Verona
This incredible Roman amphitheater was built way back in the 1st century AD.
The name "arena" comes from the sand that used to cover the stage where gladiators fought. Today, it's still used for shows and concerts. Check the concert calendar HERE.
Arena di Verona, Italy
Porta dei Borsari
Porta dei Borsari was the old main entrance to the city.
This Roman gate was initially called Porta Jovia (dedicated to Jupiter), but it was later renamed Porta dei Borsari because travelers had to pay a tax to enter the city. The term “Borsa” means “bag” or “purse.”
Piazza delle Erbe
Herb's Square is the city's ancient Roman forum.
In the center, you'll find the Fountain of Madonna Verona, a monument that represents the city as a beautiful woman.
Today, the square is a popular hangout spot for locals of all ages.
Piazza delle Erbe, Verona, Italy
Torre dei Lamberti
The Torre dei Lamberti, standing 84 meters tall, offers visitors a breathtaking 360-degree view of the historic city of Verona.
Located just a short walk from the iconic balcony associated with Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers, this tower offers an unforgettable experience for those who choose to climb to the top.
Lern more HERE.
Torre dei Lamberti, Verona, Italy
Casa di Giulietta
Juliet's House is a must-visit for anyone seeking to experience the romantic side of Verona.
Dating back to the late 13th century, this tower house features a bas-relief of a hat, which, according to tradition, is believed to be the coat of arms of the Capulet Family.
Piazza dei Signori
Also known as Piazza Dante, due to the statue dedicated to the renowned Italian poet, Piazza dei Signori is surrounded by significant buildings, including Palazzo della Ragione and Palazzo Podestà.
Piazza dei Signori, Verona, Italy
Lunch at Trattoria Il Pompiere
Opened in the early 20th century, the trattoria began as a simple tavern run by a retired firefighter, earning the name “Al Pompiere” from its patrons. Over time, it expanded, evolving its cuisine.
In 2000, the current management fully renovated the space, and since 2011, Chef Marco Dandrea has been the sole owner. Warm and inviting, the restaurant features wooden decor and black-and-white photos. It boasts a selection of 35 cured meats, expertly curated by Maestro Natalino, and around 100 Italian cheeses. With about 50 seats, it offers an intimate yet refined dining experience.
Afternoon: Visit Giardino Giusti for a romantic stroll. Cross the Ponte Pietra for stunning views of the city.
The Giardino Giusti, created in the second half of the 16th century and preserved by the same family today, remains one of the most important examples of an Italian-style garden.
The garden has been carefully maintained in its original form, retaining all the characteristic elements of 16th-century gardens: citrus trees in terracotta pots, mythological statues, fountains, grottoes, the mascherone (grotesque mask), Roman relics, and scenic viewpoints.
In addition to the Renaissance garden, visitors can explore the 16th-century palace, recently reopened as Appartamento 900.
The palace houses significant art collections and tells the family's story that has lived there for seven centuries.
Complete your day in style with an aperitivo at La Prosciutteria.
Verona Card with Arena Priority Entrance
Skip the line to the Arena and enjoy unlimited public transport
What's included
Skip-the-line access to Verona Arena
Access the city's other leading museums, monuments, and churches for 24 or 48 hours (depending on your selection)
Reduced entry to different venues
Unlimited use of the ATV public transport for 24 or 48 hours (depending on your selection)
Discounts at shops and other museums
For those who are staying more than a day, here are my recommendations for hotels and restaurants.
Best hotels in Verona, Italy
Hotel Indigo Verona - Grand Hotel Des Arts by IHG
Hotel Indigo Verona—Grand Hotel Des Arts by IHG is a refined boutique hotel in the heart of Verona, blending elegance and contemporary charm.
Housed in a historic building near the Arena, it offers stylish rooms, modern comforts, and a sophisticated ambiance inspired by the city's artistic heritage.
Book HERE
Hotel Indigo Verona - Grand Hotel Des Arts by IHG
Vista Palazzo Verona
Verona, with its charming streets, monuments, and rolling hills, invites exploration.
Vista embodies this spirit, offering comfort and city views from its rooftop terrace, where guests can dine under the open sky while enjoying a stunning 360-degree panorama of Verona.
Book HERE
Vista Palazzo Verona
Due Torri Hotel
Hotel Due Torri in Verona is a prestigious five-star hotel with a history dating back to the 14th century.
Once a noble residence and gathering place for artists, it offers timeless elegance and modern luxury. Near Juliet’s House and the Arena, the hotel captivates with its charm, refined decor, and exceptional hospitality.
This summer, guests can enjoy views of Verona's historic city center from the new private terrace on the fifth floor, showcasing the city's vibrant colors and flavors.
Book HERE
Due Torri Hotel
Relais Balcone di Giulietta
Relais Balcone di Giulietta in Verona is a romantic boutique hotel near Juliet’s Balcony.
It combines charm with luxury, featuring uniquely designed suites, some of which include private spas and views of the historic courtyard. Ideal for honeymoons and anniversaries, this enchanting retreat embodies romance in Italy's iconic city.
Book HERE
Relais Balcone di Giulietta
Best restaurants in Verona, Italy
Verona boasts various excellent restaurants showcasing the best of Italian cuisine.
Il Desco
Michelin-starred Il Desco offers a refined dining experience, blending tradition with innovation. Chef Matteo Rizzo reinterprets classic Italian flavors with high-quality seasonal ingredients. Located in a historic 15th-century building, Il Desco provides an intimate atmosphere for gourmet travelers in Verona.
Maffei
Ristorante Maffei, in central Verona, offers a fine dining experience in a 17th-century palace above the Roman Capitolium. It blends tradition with modern flavors, serving refined Italian cuisine with high-quality ingredients. With a sophisticated atmosphere and a wine cellar of over 600 labels, it’s a must-visit for discerning travelers in Verona.
Ristorante lafontanina
La Fontanina, a restaurant with a 200-year history, is located in one of Verona's most historic areas, near the Roman Theatre and Ponte Pietra. The Tapparini family has managed the restaurant since 1984, upholding a tradition that blends a passion for food and antiques. The menu features creative meat and seafood dishes, complemented by an extensive wine selection.
If you're craving fish, these are the top restaurants to try:
L’Oste Scuro
Founded in 1998 and inspired by Parisian seafood brasseries, L’Oste Scuro is a notable restaurant in Verona. It specializes in wild-caught fish from Italian waters and premium delicacies like oysters, caviar, and blue lobsters. Focusing on top-quality ingredients, the cuisine enhances natural flavors with expert preparation. A warm and attentive staff ensures a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience.
Pescheria I Masenini
In Verona's historic fish market, Piazzetta Pescheria, Pescheria I Masenini opened in 2009, becoming a top seafood restaurant. Chef Michele Montolli enhances fresh ingredients with creative, refined dishes. The elegant setting combines classic and modern styles, featuring wood paneling, soft tones, and an open kitchen. Blendi Xhafa offers an excellent wine selection to elevate the dining experience.
Al Capitan - Cucina di pesce
Freshness and seasonality are a philosophy: the seafood comes mainly from the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic fish markets, renowned oysters from France, and vegetables from carefully selected Italian farmers. This commitment is evident in the dishes, where top-quality ingredients take center stage, resulting in pure flavors and refined pairings.
The best pizzeria is:
Berbere Pizza
It’s a handcrafted sourdough pizza made with fresh ingredients—light, delicious, soft on the inside, and crispy on the outside.
Best streed food in Verona
Gastronomia Stella
Gastronomia Stella - via Stella, 11 - Verona
The window display showcases a variety of sandwiches featuring local cured meats and cheeses, such as Monte Veronese and Lessinia goat cheese, as well as Alpine options. Additionally, there are cold dishes, salads, charcuterie boards, hot specialties, and gourmet items including fresh pasta, sauces, fish, and seafood.
Enjoy outdoor seating on a charming street in the city center. A must-visit!
La Figaccia
La Figaccia - via D. Manin, 4/a - Verona
Local flavors, taste, and quality—these define the soft, stuffed focaccia served in this cozy spot near the Arena. Try the carne salà with grana and arugula, the Amarone-cured coppa with balsamic, or the bold "Ex" with speck, smoked provola, tomato sauce, and olives. Vegetarian and sweet options available. Pair with craft beers or mini wine bottles, all served with friendly, expert care. Great quality at a fair price!
Buns
Buns - via G. Garibaldi, 13a - Verona -
This burger spot celebrates its 10th anniversary, born from a passion for great burgers.
With two locations—one in Veronetta and a central one on Via Garibaldi for a quick bite—it serves juicy creations like the "Bernie," featuring beef, blue cheese, caramelized onion, and spinach, or the "1984," which includes aged Cheddar, onion, lettuce, and tomato. Sides include crispy potatoes or rosemary-crusted fried polenta.
Specials feature bold, winning combos, drawing both locals and tourists. Enjoy with craft beers or a Gin & Tonic!
Cafè Martel
Cafè Martel - via Anfiteatro, 12 - Verona -
Just steps from the Arena, this cozy bar has been serving up tasty fried panzerotti for over 50 years—perfect for a quick, flavorful bite while strolling the city. Their classic tomato and mozzarella version is a must-try, available from late morning to close. It’s also a great stop for breakfast with fresh pastries, or a casual lunch with salads, sandwiches, or stuffed brioche. During the holidays, look out for seasonal treats like zeppole and frittelle.
La Bottega della Gina XXL
La Bottega della Gina XXL - via Abramo Massalongo, 5/a - Verona -
This charming little shop is all about pasta—fresh and handmade, with rich, flavorful sauces. Enjoy it on the spot or take it to go. From braised meat tortelloni to those filled with Puzzone di Moena cheese and polenta, every bite is a delight.
Watch the pasta makers in action as they roll out bigoli and maccheroncelli by the window. Meals are served in a cozy room with disposable trays. Don’t miss the sweets, especially the chocolate-filled rufioi.
Verona’s map
Conclusion
From Shakespearean romance to Roman ruins, Verona enchants at every turn.
Whether you're tracing the footsteps of star-crossed lovers, indulging in world-class cuisine, or unwinding in a luxurious boutique hotel, this city blends elegance and history in a way few places can.
Just a short journey from Milan, Verona is a dream escape for those who crave a perfect balance of art, culture, and indulgence.
Ready to experience the magic of Verona for yourself?
Let me help you plan a seamless and luxurious getaway that captures the very best of Northern Italy. Start your journey here or get in touch today!
