How long does it take to walk Verona's historic center?

Walking the main historic circuit, including Piazza Bra, Piazza delle Erbe, and Via Sottoriva, typically takes 90 to 120 minutes. This allows for a leisurely pace with time to stop for a drink or admire the Roman and medieval architecture along the way.

Is a guided tour Verona worth it for the nightlife?

While guided experiences are available, a self-guided walk offers more flexibility to experience Verona's nightlife at your own pace. You can choose which wine bars to enter and how long to stay, which is essential for enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of the local aperitivo culture.

What is the best time to start an aperitivo walk in Verona?

The best time to start is between 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM. This aligns with the traditional Italian 'golden hour' when locals head out for a drink before dinner, and the historic buildings are beautifully illuminated by the setting sun.

Can I do this Verona walking route with a stroller?

Yes, this route is largely accessible and flat, making it suitable for strollers. You will encounter some cobblestones and historic paving, particularly in the older sections like Piazza delle Erbe and Via Sottoriva, so a stroller with good wheels is recommended.

Where is the best place to try local wine in Verona?

Osteria del Bugiardo and the bars along Via Sottoriva are excellent choices for authentic local wines. Look for Valpolicella Ripasso or Amarone for red wine lovers, or a crisp Soave if you prefer white wine.

Is the Verona aperitivo walk expensive?

The walk itself is free as it explores public squares and streets. The cost of drinks and snacks at the stops is comparable to other major Italian cities, with a Spritz typically costing between 4 and 7 euros depending on the location's proximity to major landmarks.

What are the must-see squares in Verona?

The three essential squares covered in this route are Piazza Bra (home to the Arena), Piazza delle Erbe (the historic market square), and Piazza dei Signori (the elegant 'Dante' square). Each offers a distinct architectural style and atmosphere.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Verona is often celebrated as the city of lovers, but its true heartbeat is found in the 'ora dell'aperitivo.' As the golden hour settles over the pink marble streets, the city transforms into a vibrant stage for social connection and local flavors. This self-guided walk offers an independent exploration of the city's most iconic squares and hidden wine bars, allowing you to experience the authentic Veronese lifestyle at your own pace. You will begin in the shadow of the Roman Arena, where the scale of the city's history is most palpable, before winding through the elegant 'Liston' promenade where locals have practiced the art of the evening stroll for centuries. What makes this route special is the focus on 'vivere alla Veronese'—living like a local. Rather than just seeing landmarks, you are invited to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the 'Città Antica.' This walking tour Verona route highlights the transition from the bustling market life of Piazza delle Erbe to the aristocratic quiet of Piazza dei Signori. Along the way, you will discover the secrets of the region's famous wines, from the bold Amarone to the refreshing Valpolicella Ripasso, and learn the story behind the local 'osteria' culture. This neighborhood stroll is perfect for those who want to combine architectural appreciation with the culinary delights of Northern Italy. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, this walking tour Verona experience provides the flexibility to stop for a Spritz whenever the mood strikes or to linger in a medieval portico to soak in the evening air. The route concludes in the charming Via Sottoriva, a street that retains its medieval character and offers a more intimate look at the city's nightlife. By the end of this self-guided adventure, you will understand why the aperitivo is not just a drink, but a fundamental pillar of Italian culture. This is the ideal way to explore Verona independently, away from the rigid schedules of a traditional guided tour Verona experience. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

Marvel at the Roman Arena in the expansive Piazza Bra

Walk the 'Liston,' Verona's iconic pink marble promenade

Taste authentic Valpolicella wines at a local favorite osteria

Explore the historic market atmosphere of Piazza delle Erbe

Admire the statue of Dante in the elegant Piazza dei Signori

Experience the medieval charm of the porticoed Via Sottoriva

Tour Stops (6)

Piazza Bra

Welcome to Piazza Bra, the grand entrance to Verona. This is one of the largest piazzas in Italy, dominated by the magnificent Arena, a Roman amphitheater that is still in use today for world-class opera. The name 'Bra' is derived from the German 'breit,' meaning wide. This space serves as the city's living room, where the scale of Roman history meets the bustle of modern life. As you stand here, notice the 'Liston,' the broad sidewalk paved with pink marble from the nearby Valpolicella hills. It’s the perfect spot to begin your self-guided walk, observing the locals as they begin their evening rituals against a backdrop of two millennia of history.

Liston 12

As you walk along the Liston, you are participating in a tradition known as the 'vasca'—the back-and-forth stroll that defines Italian social life. Liston 12 is a classic example of the elegant cafes lining this promenade. Here, the aperitivo tradition is on full display. In Verona, this usually involves a Spritz, but with a local twist: ask for a 'Spritz con l'Amaro' for a more bitter, Veronese profile. The marble under your feet was laid in the 18th century, designed specifically to provide a clean, elegant stage for the city's elite to see and be seen. Enjoy the view of the Arena while the city begins to glow in the twilight.

Osteria del Bugiardo

Moving deeper into the ancient city, we find the Osteria del Bugiardo. The name translates to 'The Liar's Tavern,' a nod to a local winemaker who was told his wine was 'a lie' because it was too good to be true. This spot is a temple to Valpolicella wines. While the specific wine list and snacks, or 'cicchetti,' may change seasonally, the focus on regional grapes like Corvina and Rondinella remains constant. This is the place to try a glass of Ripasso or even a bold Amarone. The atmosphere here is typically lively and crowded, capturing the true spirit of a Veronese wine bar where conversation flows as freely as the wine.

Piazza delle Erbe

Piazza delle Erbe is widely considered one of the most beautiful squares in Italy. Built over the site of the ancient Roman Forum, it has remained the center of city life for centuries. Look up at the Case Mazzanti, adorned with 16th-century frescoes that earned Verona the nickname 'the painted city.' In the center stands the Madonna Verona fountain, a medieval sculpture utilizing a Roman statue. While it serves as a market by day, in the evening, the umbrellas of the market stalls give way to the umbrellas of outdoor bars. It is a sensory delight of architectural styles ranging from Romanesque to Baroque.

Piazza dei Signori

Just a few steps through the Arco della Costa brings you to Piazza dei Signori, often called Piazza Dante due to the prominent statue of the poet who found refuge here. In contrast to the commercial energy of Piazza delle Erbe, this square feels like an aristocratic courtyard. It is surrounded by monumental buildings that once housed the city's government under the Scaliger family. The atmosphere here is more refined and hushed. It is an excellent place to appreciate the transition from the medieval era to the Renaissance, perhaps while enjoying a glass of Soave, the region's premier white wine, at one of the elegant tables tucked into the corners.

Via Sottoriva

Our route concludes in Via Sottoriva, one of Verona's most atmospheric streets. The name means 'under the bank,' referring to its position right next to the Adige River. The low, dark porticoes on one side were once used by merchants and boatmen. Today, they house some of the city's most traditional and cozy wine bars and osterias. The vibe here is more intimate and 'old world' compared to the grand piazzas. It’s the perfect place to find a quiet corner for a final glass of wine or a traditional Veronese dinner. Look for the ancient stone columns and the uneven pavement that whisper stories of the city's medieval past.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Aperitivo Trail through the Città Antica is the best choice for food and wine lovers. This self-guided route focuses on the local ritual of the aperitivo, taking you to historic spots like Osteria del Bugiardo and Piazza delle Erbe, where you can sample Valpolicella wines and traditional snacks.