We recently spent one winter night in Verona as a stopover on our way to Cortina—and honestly, we’re still thinking about it. What was meant to be a quick pause in our travels ended up being one of the most unexpectedly charming parts of our trip. (You can catch a glimpse of it all in this reel).
Verona is a city that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves. Everyone rushes to Venice, Rome, or Florence, but Verona has its own quiet magic—especially in the off-season. That said, here are a few mistakes to avoid if you’re planning a visit:
1. Don’t Skip It
The biggest mistake? Not going at all. Verona is walkable, beautiful, and full of history. In winter, the crowds are gone, the lights are glowing, and it feels like your own private fairytale.
2. Don’t Just Go for Juliet’s Balcony
Yes, it’s iconic. But don’t stop there. Verona has Roman ruins, riverside walks, and piazzas that are lively even in winter. Spend time in Piazza delle Erbe, explore Castelvecchio, and grab a spritz in Piazza Bra with a view of the Arena.
3. Don’t Underestimate the Food Scene
We weren’t expecting to have some of the best pasta of our trip here—but we did. Verona’s food scene is cozy, rich, and very local. Skip the tourist spots near Juliet’s house and look for smaller trattorias where locals are dining.
4. Don’t Forget to Book a Central Stay
Since Verona is small, location matters. We stayed right in the historic center, which made it easy to explore everything on foot—even in the cold. If you’re only there for a night, being able to walk to dinner or do a sunrise stroll without needing a taxi is a game-changer.
5. Don’t Overplan
The beauty of Verona is in the wandering. We didn’t have a packed schedule, and that was the best decision. We let ourselves get lost in side streets, stop for wine at random enotecas, and just soak up the city. That slow pace is what made it so memorable.
If Verona isn’t on your winter travel list yet, we highly recommend it. Even a one-night stop like ours is worth it! For more Italy tips read about the best cities in Italy for art lovers!