Verona, the city of love and beauty, is more than just a romantic destination. It’s a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural wonders waiting to be explored. As a travel blogger, I’m excited to share with you my favorite one-day excursions around Verona that will take your breath away.
1. Sirmione and Lake Garda
Just 30 minutes from Verona, the charming town of Sirmione is perched on a peninsula overlooking Lake Garda. This stunning lake is home to picturesque towns like Peschiera del Garda, Gardone Riviera, and Riva del Garda. Be sure to visit Scaliger Castle, Catullo’s Grottoes, and enjoy a scenic boat ride on the lake.
Distance: 35.7 km
How to get there: By car via E70 road (41 minutes) or bus SIA (€3.00 per trip)
Tour duration: 6-8 hours
Ticket price: Guided tours start at €60.00
Sirmione is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking views of Lake Garda and the surrounding hills. Take a leisurely stroll through the town’s narrow streets, visit the ancient ruins of the Roman villa, and enjoy the local cuisine. Don’t miss the stunning sunset views from the castle’s battlements.
2. Valpolicella: Wine Tour Soave and Amarone
Only 13 kilometers from Verona, the charming hills of Valpolicella offer a world-class wine tour experience. Visit local vineyards and wineries to taste some of the region’s finest wines, including Soave and Amarone. Enjoy lunch at a traditional trattoria and learn about the art of wine-making.
Distance: 13.3 km
How to get there: By car via State Road 12 (24 minutes) or bus Verona Transport Company (€2.00 per trip)
Tour duration: 4-6 hours
Ticket price: Guided tours start at €70.00
Valpolicella is a wine region that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visit the ancient vineyards, learn about the wine-making process, and enjoy a glass of Soave or Amarone. Don’t miss the stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
3. Lessinia Nature Reserve
Escape the city life and head to the Lessinia Nature Reserve, located about an hour from Verona. This stunning reserve offers breathtaking views of the Dolomites and Monte Baldo mountains. Hike through the forest, explore the wild animal habitats, and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature.
Distance: 36.6 km
How to get there: By car via Autostrada 35 and E70 road (1 hour 1 minute) or bus Verona Transport Company (€3.00 per trip)
Tour duration: Flexible
Ticket price: Free entrance
Lessinia Nature Reserve is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful escape from the city. Hike through the forest, explore the wild animal habitats, and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature. Don’t miss the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
4. Venice
Verona’s neighboring city, Venice, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Explore the Grand Canal, visit St. Mark’s Basilica, and take a romantic gondola ride through the canals. Don’t forget to try some delicious seafood and gelato!
Distance: 120 km
How to get there: By car (1 hour 22 minutes) or train Flixbus (€7.00 per trip)
Tour duration: 10 hours
Ticket price: Gondola ride starts at €30.00
Venice is a city like no other, with its canals, bridges, and historic buildings. Explore the Grand Canal, visit St. Mark’s Basilica, and take a romantic gondola ride through the canals. Don’t miss the stunning views of the surrounding lagoon and the unique architecture of the city.
5. Parco Giardino Sigurtà
Located just outside Verona, the beautiful park of Parco Giardino Sigurtà offers a relaxing day out amidst nature and culture. Explore the labyrinth, rose garden, and aquatic gardens, and enjoy a leisurely walk through the park.
Distance: 24.5 km
How to get there: By car via A22 or A4 road (35 minutes) or bus Verona Transport Company (€2.00 per trip)
Open hours: Daily from 9:00 to 19:00
Ticket price: €14.00 full ticket, €7.00 reduced ticket
Parco Giardino Sigurtà is a hidden gem that offers a relaxing day out amidst nature and culture. Explore the labyrinth, rose garden, and aquatic gardens, and enjoy a leisurely walk through the park. Don’t miss the stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
6. Day hike in the Dolomites
For a more challenging but rewarding experience, head to the Dolomites for a day hike. Take in breathtaking views of Val di Fassa and explore the scenic valleys and mountains.
Distance: 179 km
How to get there: By car via Autostrada 22 and E45 road (2 hours 32 minutes) or guided tour
Tour duration: 10 hours
Ticket price: Guided tours start at €180.00
The Dolomites are a mountain range that offers breathtaking views and challenging hiking trails. Take in the stunning views of Val di Fassa, explore the scenic valleys and mountains, and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature.
7. Gardaland
This popular theme park is a must-visit for families and thrill-seekers alike. With rides, shows, and attractions suitable for all ages, Gardaland offers an unforgettable experience.
Distance: 23.3 km
How to get there: By car or bus Verona Transport Company (€2.00 per trip)
Open hours: Daily from 10:00 to 18:00
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Ticket price: Entrance ticket starts at €35.00
Gardaland is a theme park that offers an unforgettable experience for families and thrill-seekers alike. With rides, shows, and attractions suitable for all ages, Gardaland is the perfect destination for a fun-filled day out.
8. Mantua
Verona’s neighboring city, Mantua, is a treasure trove of Renaissance architecture and history. Explore the Palazzo Ducale, Palazzo Te, and Basilica of Sant’Andrea, and enjoy lunch at one of the many charming trattorias.
Distance: 38.9 km
How to get there: By car via Provinciale 249 (45 minutes) or train Verona Porta Nuova (€5.00 per trip)
Open hours: Daily from 10:00 to 19:00
Mantua is a city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore the Palazzo Ducale, Palazzo Te, and Basilica of Sant’Andrea, and enjoy lunch at one of the many charming trattorias. Don’t miss the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
9. Ferrara
This charming city is located just outside Verona and offers a unique blend of Renaissance architecture, art, and culture. Visit the Estense Castle, National Pinacoteca of Ferrara, and explore the historic center.
Distance: 92.9 km
How to get there: By car via Statale 434 and Autostrada A13 (1 hour 30 minutes) or Flixbus (€5.00 per trip)
Open hours: Daily from 10:00 to 19:00
Ferrara is a city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visit the Estense Castle, National Pinacoteca of Ferrara, and explore the historic center. Don’t miss the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
10. Lake Garda
Lake Garda is a beautiful lake located in the heart of Italy. Take a boat ride, visit one of the many charming towns, or enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature.
Distance: 40 km
How to get there: By car via A4 road (30 minutes) or bus Verona Transport Company (€2.00 per trip)
Tour duration: Flexible
Ticket price: Boat ride starts at €10.00
Lake Garda is a beautiful lake that offers breathtaking views and a range of activities. Take a boat ride, visit one of the many charming towns, or enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature.
In conclusion, Verona and its surroundings offer a wide range of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From the stunning Lake Garda to the charming town of Sirmione, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, natural beauty, or simply a relaxing day out, Verona is the perfect destination for your next adventure.
Tips and recommendations:
- Visit Sirmione during the summer months to enjoy the stunning sunsets.
- Take a wine tour in Valpolicella to learn about the region’s famous wines.
- Explore the Lessinia Nature Reserve on foot or by bike to experience the stunning scenery.
- Visit Venice during the spring or autumn months to avoid the crowds and enjoy the city’s unique architecture.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature in Parco Giardino Sigurtà or Lake Garda.
- Take a day hike in the Dolomites to experience the breathtaking views and challenging hiking trails.
Accommodation:
Verona has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Consider staying in the city center for easy access to public transportation and major attractions. Some popular neighborhoods include:
- Centro Storico: A historic neighborhood with narrow streets and charming architecture.
- Ponte Pietra: A lively neighborhood near the famous bridge that connects the city’s two main islands.
- Via Roma: A central neighborhood with a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Getting around:
Verona has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses and trains. Consider purchasing a Verona City Pass for unlimited travel on public transportation and discounts at local attractions. Some popular modes of transportation include:
- Bus: A convenient way to get around the city and surrounding countryside.
- Train: A fast and efficient way to travel between cities and towns.
- Car rental: A great option for exploring the region’s scenic countryside.
Language:
The official language in Italy is Italian, but many locals also speak English. Consider learning a few basic phrases in Italian to enhance your experience:
- Ciao! (CHOW): Hello!
- Grazie (GRAH-zee-eh): Thank you
- Per favore (pehr fah-VOH-reh): Please
- Scusa (SKOO-zah): Excuse me
Safety:
Verona is a generally safe city, but as with any travel destination, take normal precautions to ensure your safety:
- Be aware of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas.
- Keep valuables secure and consider using a hotel safe or lockbox.
- Avoid walking alone at night in dimly lit areas.
Conclusion:
Verona is a beautiful city that offers a wide range of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From the stunning Lake Garda to the charming town of Sirmione, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, natural beauty, or simply a relaxing day out, Verona is the perfect destination for your next adventure.
