Verona on a Budget

The Arena di VeronaLink opens in a new tab is one of the top attractions in Verona; it’s also one of the best budget attractions. First built in the 1st century AD, the Arena di Verona is one of the most impressive amphitheaters in Italy and one of the most famous landmarks in Verona. 

And here’s the best news: Visiting the Arena di Verona starts from €2.10 per person. However, entering the attraction is free if you’ve purchased a Verona card beforehand. 

A trip to Verona isn’t complete until you walk around the Piazza delle ErbeLink opens in a new tab, a famous and vibrant square in the heart of Verona’s historic center. You’ll find various colorful market stalls serving fresh souvenirs and restaurants producing excellent food. 

Similarly, the square is perfect for people-watching; during the summer months, tens of thousands of people wander through the square. Best of all, the square is free to enter and a dream for budget tourists. 

The Jewish Ghetto of Verona is a free attraction to walk around, offering a fascinating insight into the city’s deep and sometimes disturbing history. The local community established it after a ruling by the Venetian Republic that required all Jews to live in a specific area of Verona. The city closed off the Ghetto with gates and didn’t allow Jews to leave at night. 

Today, the Jewish Ghetto offers some fascinating historic architecture combining narrow and winding roads alongside beautiful colorful facades. The top attraction within the Ghetto is the Jewish Synagogue; it’s a beautiful building with a Moorish-style facade, and the locals still use it for religious ceremonies. 

The Giardino GiustiLink opens in a new tab is a stunning Renaissance garden in the heart of Verona. First established in the 16th century, the garden is one of the best-preserved examples of Italian Renaissance worldwide. You’ll find the garden in the middle of Verona. As such, it offers a delightful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

In addition, you’ll also witness stunning views of Verona from the gardens. The main attraction of the gardens is the avenue of cypress trees; you’ll find them leading up to the terrace with stunning panoramic city views. The attraction costs €11 to enterLink opens in a new tab, making it an excellent budget attraction. 

The Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore is one of Verona’s most impressive examples of Romanesque-style architecture. Situated a short walk from the city center, locals have dedicated the church to Saint Zeno, the Patron Saint of Verona. Visitors love the church’s rose windows, tall ceilings, gorgeous frescoes, and beautiful stained-glass windows. 

Likewise, one of the church’s biggest highlights is the crypt, which you’ll find beneath the church. The crypt houses the tomb of Saint Zeno and various other important religious artworks. 

If you’re looking for stunning views of the city, you should head to the city’s main medieval castle: the Castel San PietroLink opens in a new tab. The castle is a historic fortress situated on a hill overlooking Verona. Historians believe the castle dates back to the 10th century, although locals have rebuilt the castle throughout the Middle Ages. 

To visit the attraction, you’ll need to climb up a steep hillside path. Although the hike can be challenging—depending on your fitness levels—the views along the path are sensational. And better still, there are various benches to relax after the climb. The castle only costs €2 to enter, making it ideal if you want to save cash. 

Ponte Pietra is an ancient Roman bridge that crosses the beautiful Adige River in Verona. Dating back to the 1st century AD, the bridge is one of the oldest structures in the city. And despite the bridge’s age, the city still uses it today, and it’s one of the top spots for locals that’s free to visit. 

However, the most interesting fact about the bridge is how it’s been destroyed and rebuilt various times, including during World War II. Today, the bridge is a robust sign of Verona’s resilience and determination. The best time to visit the bridge is at sunset because of the incredible views. 

If you want to visit Italy and avoid the crazy herds of tourists in places like Rome, Venice, and Florence—Verona is a superb destination. Likewise, although Verona isn’t the cheapest vacation spot in Europe, you can still avoid spending a fortune if you follow our tips and grab a great deal on accommodation.