A Day in Verona: Exploring the City of Love in Just Five Hours
On the day after Christmas, Brandy, Brooke, and I took a quick trip from the Dolomites down to Verona. With only about five hours to explore, we knew we’d have to pick our highlights and savor every moment. And even though it was a whirlwind visit, Verona’s charm made an impression that felt much bigger than the time we spent there.
Meeting Dante in Piazza Bra
Dante Alighieri
As we strolled through Piazza Bra, I spotted a statue of Dante Alighieri, an unexpected surprise and a real highlight for me. Standing there, looking up at the legendary poet, I felt a deep connection to Italy’s rich literary history. Dante’s influence echoes through centuries, and seeing his statue in Verona—a city he knew well during his exile—was powerful. For a few moments, I stood in awe, thinking about how his words, especially in The Divine Comedy, have shaped literature and our understanding of the human spirit.
Verona Arena and Piazza Bra: Stepping Back in Time
Our first stop was the Verona Arena, the ancient Roman amphitheater that still stands proudly in Piazza Bra. Walking up to the Arena was like stepping back in time. Even from the outside, its sheer size and the beauty of the stone arches made it clear why it’s one of the best-preserved Roman structures in Italy. We marveled at how, almost 2,000 years later, this arena still hosts concerts and events, bridging history with modern culture.
After exploring the outside of the Arena, we wandered around Piazza Bra itself. The square was bustling with life, from families and couples strolling through the Christmas decorations to vendors selling souvenirs and treats. There was a festive energy in the air, even with the winter chill, and we soaked in the views and people-watching.
Pro Tip: The Verona Card
If you’re planning to explore Verona, don’t forget to pick up a Verona Card! Available as a 24- or 48-hour pass, it’s a budget-friendly way to make the most of your time in the city.
Here’s what the Verona Card offers:
Free Public Transport: Unlimited access to buses for up to 48 hours.
Free Admission: Entry to more than 15 attractions, including the Verona Arena, Juliet’s House, and the Museo di Castelvecchio.
Discounts: Reduced prices at other sites around the city.
The card pays for itself quickly if you’re planning to visit multiple attractions, and it saves you time by skipping the ticket lines. You can purchase the Verona Card online, at local tourist offices, or directly at participating attractions.
Juliet’s House: A Peek at Casa di Giulietta
No trip to Verona is complete without a stop by Juliet’s House, or Casa di Giulietta. The courtyard was busy, filled with tourists taking photos and leaving messages on the walls. The famous balcony, while smaller than I’d imagined, had an undeniable romantic allure, especially knowing it’s inspired countless love stories worldwide.
Casa di Giulietta
Brooke loved the idea of seeing Juliet’s supposed home, especially after hearing the tales of “Romeo and Juliet” over the years. We didn’t go inside, but just being there sparked conversations about the magic of Verona’s history and the timeless nature of love stories. Seeing the letters, notes, and love locks scattered around made me think about how universal the hope for love is, transcending borders and centuries.
Climbing the Torre dei Lamberti
Next, we headed over to the Torre dei Lamberti, a medieval tower that rises above the city and offers one of the best views in Verona. Brandy and Brooke were troopers as we made our way up the steps (though we may have caught the lift partway up!). Reaching the top, we were rewarded with panoramic views of Verona’s red-tiled rooftops, winding streets, and, in the distance, the Adige River looping through the city.
On top of the Torre dei Lamberti
Standing up there with Brandy and Brooke, taking in the city’s history and beauty, felt like a moment to pause and appreciate not just the view, but the journey we’ve shared as a family. There’s something about being above a city that gives you perspective, a reminder of how vast and layered life is, and how lucky we are to explore it together.
Gelato Break at Piazza Bra
After our climb, we made our way back to Piazza Bra for one final treat before heading out: a quick gelato break. Even in winter, gelato is a must in Italy! We each picked our flavors and sat for a few quiet moments to savor the cool sweetness against the chilly air. It was a small pleasure, but the perfect way to end our short adventure.
A Whirlwind Visit, Full of Memories
Our time in Verona may have been short, but it was rich with experiences that we’ll carry with us. We covered a lot of ground in five hours and managed to get a taste of the city’s history, romance, and charm. As we left, I couldn’t help but think that Verona’s allure is the kind that calls you back. So maybe someday, we’ll return to wander its streets a little longer.