Want to visit Verona and spend as little as possible?
Then follow these top 15 free visits, museums and activities in Verona that we’ve compiled for you to enjoy without ruining yourself.
Table des matières
Via Mazzini
This beautiful, marble-paved pedestrian street connects the two most popular squares in the historic center of Verona, namely Piazza Bra and Piazza delle Erbe
Its name was inspired by the Italian independence politician Giuseppe Mazzini, who had long fought for the sovereignty and unity of his nation. Mazzini Street, which is also characterized by its fashionable department stores, is ideal for a stroll. Of course, the walk is free, provided you are not too tempted by the luxury boutiques. Otherwise, make sure your bank account is solid!
Chiesa di San Lorenzo
Here is another place you can see for free in Verona; La Chiesa di San Lorenzo. It is a real feast for the eyes if you really take the time to admire it.
This 4th century church, built near the river, is a miracle because it survived the earthquake of 1117 despite the considerable damage it suffered.
It is characterized by two huge towers that can be seen from afar, but also by fresco remains that you can discover inside the building.
Arco dei Gavi
Are you looking for a free activity in Verona? Think about visiting the Arco dei Gavi , located right in the center of the city on the banks of the Adige River.
You will easily recognize it by the fact that it proudly sits in the middle of a small square. But what will amaze you more than anything else are the wheel tracks of the carriages that drove over the cobblestones, still intact after two millennia. These are highlighted by the sunlight reflecting off the stones of the Roman arch.
Definitely worth seeing at sunrise or sunset.
The Church of Sant’Eufemia
This is a rather modest church from the outside, but all its charm is concentrated inside.
It is the perfect place to enjoy the silence, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It will impress you with its high, endlessly curved ceiling and the works of Giovanni Caroto on display.
Sant’Eufemia is located not far from the Verona River and is majestic and relaxing. It can be visited free of charge and privately, accompanied by the guardian, if it is not too crowded.
Statue of Dante Alighieri
To the deserving sculptor Ugo Zannoni we owe the existence of the statue of Dante Alighieri, a highly talented Italian poet. It was erected at night as a precautionary measure against the Austrian occupation forces of the time.
It is so beautiful amidst all the medieval palaces that it adds an extra charm to the center of Piazza dei Signori. You cannot pass by this masterpiece without stopping to contemplate it in its Carrara marble shell and commemorate the memory of this famous man of letters.
Porta dei Leoni
As inconspicuous as this archaeological site may be, it is hardly known by tourists, but nevertheless very impressive. It is well hidden by the many stores that somewhat overshadow it, but once you find it, you have only one desire to finish this incredible discovery. Well preserved remains in the heart of Verona is not something you see every day. What’s more, the visit is free. So why not take advantage of it?
Arco della Costa
We particularly liked this vault dating back to 1470, made of a large bone that we never knew if it belonged to a whale or a dragon! Either way, the whole thing is definitely worth asking!
The Arco della Costa is a free attraction, ideal for families or children. It’s best to take the whole afternoon to see everything and don’t forget your camera; this is the kind of excursion to immortalize!
Arca di Cangrande I
With the Verona Card you can visit the “Arca di Cangrande I” for free. One more reason to enter it!
This monument will appeal to you with its well-kept mausoleums and tombs, easily visible from the outside. The tombs, also called Arche Scaligere, were once owned by the ancient royal family Della Scala. The wall, covered with an iron fence, impresses with its imposing appearance and size.
Chiesa di San Giovanni in Foro (Church of San Giovanni in Foro)
What makes this small church so special is that it has survived so many disasters that you would think it had been blessed by the gods! If neither the earthquake of 1117 nor the fire of 1172 could harm it, then it is worth devoting a little time to it. Mosaic floors, sculptures and paintings by the greatest Italian artists and a beautiful atmosphere; this is what awaits you in the Chiesa di San Giovanni in Foro, and besides, the entrance is free, so you don’t even have to think about it!
Arca di Cansignorio
After visiting Piazza dei Signori, take just under an hour to admire these absolutely sublime Gothic tombs, located in the sanctuary of the Scaligeri family. You can listen to music in a modest Roman church, while the mausoleums will impress you with the many lattices, balustrade and equestrian statue that surround them. The Arca di Cansignorio exudes a strange serenity that will surely put you at ease. You can enterit for free, alone or accompanied. In any case, you will surely love it!
Madonna Verona Fountain
This 14th century fountain contains a pretty statue of the Lady of Verona, the city’s landmark. You will be surprised to know that it is not allowed to obstruct her view with terraces or commercial stalls.
If you look closer at her, she will give you the impression that her attention is on the famous Lion of Venice, perched on the Marquis Column in the hills above Verona.
It is also a place where you can take a good walk and take some pictures to show your friends.
Case Mazzanti
If you stroll a little further north in Piazza delle Erbe in Verona, you will come across the Mazzanti houses, which you will recognize without a second thought. This type of houses cannot be missed, with beautiful floral arrangements on all balconies and facades decorated with incredible frescoes. As an example, we can mention the mythological and allegorical scenes by Alberto Cavalli. No wonder Verona was once called the “painted city”!
Monumental Cemetery of Verona
The idea of visiting a cemetery may not seem very ordinary or attractive at first glance, but once you enter the Cimitero Monumentale di Verona, you will no longer think about the macabre character of the place, but will focus more on the beauty of the buildings, crypts and sculptures, and the sense of emotion and wonder they evoke in you, each in its own way.
You should not miss this site, located southeast of Verona and majestically bordering the Adige River. It’s only a 15-minute walk from Piazza Bra and admission is free.
Piazza delle Erbe
If there is one place in Verona that exudes the Italian Dolce Vita, it is undoubtedly Piazza delle Erbe. It has everything it takes to be one of the most visited squares in the entire city. Its delicious restaurants, terraces and well-filled facades will give you a taste of the true Italian traditions.
We also suggest you to lose yourself in its streets to reach its beautiful 4th century fountain, then the statues of the Greek gods, the two columns and finally Palazzo Maffei.
Piazza delle Erbe is perfect for an outing with friends, in the evening or during the day!
Piazzale Castel San Pietro
If climbing doesn’t scare you too much, keep the afternoon free to visit Piazzale Castel San Pietro. To get there, you’ll have to take a staircase that leads endlessly up the hill. But the panorama upon arrival is really worth the effort. At the end of this effort, a breathtaking view of the city as well as the Verona River awaits you.
The best time to get there is at sunset or sunrise; the view is stunning at these times of day.