Verona, Italy: A Local’s Guide to Restaurants, Wine & Hidden Gems

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NomadWithDan
Curated By

NomadWithDan

  • Verona

  • Italy

  • Boutique Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Arts & Culture

  • Hidden Gem

Advisor - Verona, Italy: A Local’s Guide to Restaurants, Wine & Hidden Gems
Curator’s statement

Verona is often overlooked by travelers rushing between Venice and Milan, but it’s one of Italy’s most rewarding cities. From Roman landmarks and medieval streets to Amarone wine and unforgettable local restaurants, Verona offers an authentic Italian experience without the crowds. This guide highlights the places and moments that made me fall in love with the city.

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Where to stay in Verona

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Things to do in Verona

One of my favorite evenings in Verona—watching the Arena come alive after dark.

Arena di Verona

One of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world and the symbol of Verona. Even if you’re not attending an opera, it’s worth visiting to appreciate its scale, history, and remarkable preservation.

Piazza delle Erbe

The heart of Verona and one of my favorite places to slow down and people-watch. Surrounded by historic buildings, cafés, and market stalls, it’s the perfect introduction to the city.

Torre dei Lamberti

For the best panoramic views in Verona, head to the top of this historic tower. The views over the city’s terracotta rooftops showcase just how walkable and beautiful Verona really is.

Piazza dei Signori

Often overlooked by first-time visitors, this elegant square offers a quieter and more refined atmosphere than nearby Piazza delle Erbe. It’s one of the best places to experience Verona’s local character.

Ponte Pietra

Verona’s oldest bridge and one of its most photogenic landmarks. Crossing it feels like stepping through centuries of history, especially in the soft morning or evening light.

Castelvecchio & Ponte Scaligero

This medieval castle and its iconic bridge provide some of the best river views in the city. It’s a great place to explore Verona’s history while enjoying a scenic walk.

Castel San Pietro

My favorite viewpoint in Verona. The walk up is rewarded with sweeping views over the city, especially at sunset when Verona begins to glow.

Casa di Giulietta

Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s still one of Verona’s most famous attractions. Stop by to see the famous balcony and experience the story that helped make Verona known around the world.

Discover Amarone wine

Verona sits in the heart of Valpolicella wine country, home to Amarone. Whether at a local wine bar or during a winery visit, tasting Amarone is an essential Verona experience.

Places to eat & drink in Verona

A taste of Verona: Risotto all’Amarone paired with local wine.

Il Bertoldo

A restaurant recommended by my hotel concierge that ended up being one of my favorite meals in Verona. The risotto all'Amarone is a local specialty and a must-try for anyone wanting an authentic taste of the region.

La Loggia Bistrò

An elegant restaurant known for its creative approach to regional cuisine. A great choice for a special evening and one of Verona's more refined dining experiences.

Al Pompiere

One of Verona's classic dining institutions, serving traditional Veronese dishes in a historic setting. Ideal for travelers looking to experience local flavors and culture.

Le Vecete

A casual local favorite offering traditional dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for a laid-back lunch or dinner while exploring the historic center.

Enjoy an aperitivo in Piazza delle Erbe

One of the best ways to experience Verona is to settle into a café with a glass of local wine and watch the city come alive. Sometimes the atmosphere is as memorable as the meal itself.

Explore Verona's wine bars

Verona sits at the gateway to Valpolicella, home of Amarone wine. A visit to a local wine bar is one of the best ways to discover the region's celebrated wines.

Order the Risotto all'Amarone

More than a dish, it's a Verona experience. Made with the region's famous Amarone wine, this rich and flavorful risotto is one of the city's signature specialties.

Say yes to aperitivo

One of my favorite Verona memories came from ordering what we thought would be a small snack before dinner and receiving an enormous platter of cured meats to share. It's a reminder that some of the best travel experiences happen when you embrace the unexpected.

Need to know

Before visiting Verona, I expected to enjoy the Arena and the historic center. What surprised me was how quickly I slowed down. Some of my favorite memories weren’t the famous landmarks—they were wandering along the Adige River, lingering over a glass of Amarone, and watching the sunset from Castel San Pietro.

I also loved discovering Verona’s quieter corners: Roman ruins hidden beneath a modern store, the small Arco della Costa with its mysterious hanging rib, the elaborate Arche Scaligere, and the hidden Well of Love tucked away in a quiet courtyard. These unexpected discoveries gave me an even deeper appreciation for the city’s history and character.

If you give Verona a little more time than most travelers do, I think you’ll discover why it became one of my favorite cities in Italy.

NomadWithDan

Travel Advisor

NomadWithDan

Advisor - Dan Eubank

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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Verona page.