Verona Day Trip at a Glance: Quick Facts for 2025
For travelers who want the essential info right away, here’s everything you need to know about your Milan to Verona adventure in a nutshell.
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Milan | ~160 km (100 miles) |
| Travel Time (Train) | 1h 15m (High-Speed) | 1h 55m (Regional) |
| Average Cost (Per Person) | €70-€125 (including train, food, attractions) |
| Best Time to Visit | April-June, September-October |
Thinking about escaping the bustling fashion capital for a day of romance, history, and ancient wonders? You’re likely asking, “Can you do a day trip from Milan to Verona?” The answer is a resounding yes, and it’s absolutely fantastic! Verona, a city of Roman ruins, medieval castles, and the timeless tragedy of Shakespearean lovers, is one of the best and easiest day trips from Milan. Its compact, walkable center is packed with incredible sights, making it perfect for a single day of exploration. This guide will give you everything you need to plan the perfect one day trip from Milan to Verona, from the best train to take to a step-by-step itinerary that ensures you see it all.
How to Get to Verona from Milan
Getting from Milan to Verona is surprisingly simple. While you have a few options, one stands out as the clear winner for a day trip. The distance from Milan to Verona by train is short enough that you’ll spend more time exploring than traveling.
By Train (The Best Option)
Taking the train is unequivocally the fastest, most convenient, and most relaxing way to travel from Milan to Verona. Is it easy? Yes, it’s incredibly simple. Two main companies, Trenitalia (the national rail service) and Italo (a private high-speed operator), run dozens of direct trains daily from Milano Centrale to Verona’s main station, Verona Porta Nuova.
Here’s a quick comparison to help you choose:
| Train Type | Travel Time | Average Cost (One-Way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| High-Speed (Frecciarossa/Italo) | ~1h 15m | €25-€50 (Book in advance!) | Speed, comfort, and maximizing your day. |
| Regional (Regionale) | ~1h 55m | ~€13 (Fixed price) | Budget travelers and last-minute planners. |
Insider Tip: The Verona Porta Nuova station is located just outside the historic center. It’s a pleasant 20-minute walk to Piazza Bra (the main square with the Arena) or a quick 5-minute ride on one of the many city buses waiting just outside the station.
By Car
Driving offers flexibility but comes with notable drawbacks for a day trip. The journey is about 160 km (100 miles) along the A4 autostrada and takes around 2 hours without traffic. However, you’ll need to account for fuel costs and tolls, which can be around €15 each way.
CRUCIAL WARNING: Verona’s historic center is a ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato), or Limited Traffic Zone. Unauthorised cars entering this zone will be hit with a heavy fine. We strongly advise against driving into the city center. Instead, use a paid parking garage on the outskirts, like Parcheggio Cittadella or Parcheggio Arena, and walk from there.
By Bus
Companies like FlixBus operate this route and offer the cheapest tickets. However, the journey takes 2.5 to 3 hours each way, which significantly eats into your precious sightseeing time. For a day trip, the bus is not the recommended option.
Top 5 Things to Do in Verona on a Day Trip
Verona’s charm is that its main attractions are clustered together, making it easy to see the best of the city in a few hours. Here is a can’t-miss list for your day trip.
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Step Back in Time at the Verona Arena
Your first stop should be the breathtaking Verona Arena. Located in the magnificent Piazza Bra, this 1st-century Roman amphitheater is even older than Rome’s Colosseum and is remarkably well-preserved. You can walk its ancient stone corridors and imagine the gladiatorial contests held here two millennia ago.
Practical Info: Cost: ~€10. Hours: ~9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (subject to change).
Insider Tip: Buy the Verona Card! For just €20 for 24 hours, it includes free entry to the Arena and most other top sites on this list, plus use of city buses. It’s the best money-saving trick for this itinerary. Also, check the schedule online, as it can close early for opera preparations in the summer.
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Live the Romance at Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta)
A short walk from the Arena is the legendary 13th-century house and balcony that inspired Shakespeare’s tale of Romeo and Juliet. The courtyard, which is free to enter, houses a bronze statue of Juliet—tradition says rubbing her right breast will bring you luck in love.
Practical Info: Cost: ~€6 to enter the house/museum and stand on the balcony.
Insider Tip: The courtyard is tiny and gets incredibly crowded. To avoid the biggest throngs, try to go first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon. Manage your expectations—it’s a massive tourist hotspot, but a must-do for that iconic photo.
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Soak Up the Atmosphere in Piazza delle Erbe
This is the ancient heart of Verona. Once a Roman forum, Piazza delle Erbe is now a vibrant market square surrounded by beautiful buildings with faded frescoes, historic towers, and lively cafes. It’s the perfect place to feel the city’s pulse.
Practical Info: Free to visit.
Insider Tip: Grab a seat at an outdoor café for a coffee break or an afternoon Aperol Spritz. It’s the best spot for people-watching. Look up to spot the magnificent Lamberti Tower dominating the square—your next stop!
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Climb the Torre dei Lamberti for the Best Views
For a jaw-dropping perspective of Verona, head to the Torre dei Lamberti. At 84 meters, this medieval bell tower offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city’s red-tiled roofs, winding river, and ancient landmarks.
Practical Info: Cost: ~€8 (included in the Verona Card). And don’t worry, there’s an elevator to take you most of the way up!
Insider Tip: The panoramic photo you take from the top will be the best souvenir from your day trip. It truly puts the entire city into perspective and helps you appreciate its layout.
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Stroll Across the Castelvecchio Bridge (Ponte Scaligero)
This impressive fortified medieval bridge is connected to the imposing Castelvecchio fortress. Walking across its crenelated red-brick battlements offers stunning views of the Adige River and the city beyond. It’s a masterpiece of 14th-century engineering.
Practical Info: Free to walk across the bridge. The Castelvecchio Museum inside the fortress costs ~€6.
Insider Tip: Visit in the late afternoon. The “golden hour” light on the bridge and fortress is magical, making it a perfect final activity before walking back towards the train station.
A Perfect One-Day Verona Itinerary from Milan
Want a foolproof plan? Follow this step-by-step itinerary to make the most of your day.
- Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM):
- 8:00 AM: Catch an early high-speed train from Milano Centrale to arrive fresh and ready to explore.
- 9:30 AM: Arrive at Verona Porta Nuova. Take a leisurely 20-minute walk or a 5-minute bus ride to Piazza Bra.
- 10:00 AM: Head straight into the Verona Arena to explore this ancient wonder before the midday crowds arrive.
- Midday (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM):
- 12:00 PM: Walk to Juliet’s House. Brave the courtyard for that essential photo and maybe pop inside the museum.
- 1:00 PM: Time for lunch! Find a traditional trattoria on a side street just off Piazza delle Erbe for an authentic meal.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM – 6:00 PM):
- 2:30 PM: Wander through Piazza delle Erbe, then climb the Torre dei Lamberti for spectacular city views.
- 4:00 PM: Stroll towards the Adige River to the Ponte Pietra, Verona’s oldest Roman bridge, for another classic viewpoint.
- 5:00 PM: Walk along the riverbank to the Castelvecchio Bridge for perfect golden hour photos.
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards):
- 6:00 PM: Find a bar and enjoy a classic Italian aperitivo—a spritz with some complimentary snacks.
- 7:00 PM: Begin your walk back to the Verona Porta Nuova station.
- 7:30 PM: Catch your train back to Milan, filled with memories of a beautiful day.
Where to Eat in Verona (Lunch & Aperitivo)
Verona’s cuisine is hearty and delicious. Here are some ideas for a day-tripper’s budget.
- Quick & Delicious (€): For a fast and affordable lunch, look for a “pizza al taglio” shop, where you can buy pizza by the slice. You’ll also find many “paninoteche” selling delicious sandwiches, perfect for grabbing on the go.
- Traditional Trattoria (€€): For a sit-down meal, wander into the side streets off the main squares to find an authentic “Osteria” or “Trattoria.” Look for local specialties like Risotto all’Amarone or fresh Gnocchi.
- Classic Aperitivo (€€): Don’t miss the Italian tradition of a pre-dinner drink! Around 6 PM, bars across the city offer an “aperitivo,” where the price of your drink (like an Aperol Spritz) includes access to a buffet of tasty snacks. It’s a fun and cultural experience.
Planning Your Visit: Insider Tips for a Flawless Trip
A little planning goes a long way. Keep these tips in mind for a smooth and enjoyable day.
- Buy the Verona Card: It cannot be stressed enough. If you plan to visit the Arena, the tower, and one other site, the €20 card has already paid for itself.
- Book Trains in Advance: For the best prices on high-speed Frecciarossa or Italo trains, book your tickets online at least a week or two ahead. Regional train prices are fixed.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on ancient cobblestone streets. Your feet will thank you!
- Start Early: An early train maximizes your limited time. Verona is beautiful in the morning light before the tour groups arrive.
- Check for Events: The Verona Opera Festival runs from June to August. During this time, the city is buzzing but also more crowded, and Arena access may be restricted. Always check the official attraction websites for opening hours before you go.
What to Pack for a Day in Verona
Pack light, but pack smart. Here’s a quick checklist:
- ✅ Comfortable walking shoes (the most important item!)
- ✅ Portable power bank for your phone
- ✅ Reusable water bottle to refill at public fountains
- ✅ Camera / Smartphone
- ✅ Sunscreen and sunglasses (especially in summer)
- ✅ A light jacket or small umbrella (for spring/autumn showers)
Estimated Budget Breakdown for 2025 (Per Person)
Curious about what a day trip to Verona will cost? Here’s a sample breakdown to help you plan.
| Expense | Budget Trip | Mid-Range Trip |
|---|---|---|
| Return Train Ticket | ~€26 (Regionale) | ~€60 (Frecciarossa, booked in advance) |
| Attractions | €20 (Verona Card) | €20 (Verona Card) |
| Lunch | ~€10 (Panini/Pizza) | ~€25 (Trattoria) |
| Coffee/Gelato/Aperitivo | ~€10 | ~€20 |
| Total | ~€66 | ~€125 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Verona worth a day trip from Milan?
Absolutely. Its unique combination of world-class Roman history, romantic Shakespearean charm, and delicious food, all contained within a compact and beautiful city center, makes it a perfect and highly rewarding day trip. The short train ride means you spend your day exploring, not traveling.
Is it worth going to Verona for a day?
Yes, one day is definitely enough time to see all the main highlights of Verona without feeling too rushed. The historic center is small and easily walkable, with major attractions like the Arena, Juliet’s House, and Piazza delle Erbe all located within a 15-minute walk of each other.
What is the best day trip from Milan?
While Milan offers many fantastic day trip options like Lake Como and Bergamo, Verona consistently ranks as one of the best. It provides a completely different experience, offering a unique blend of ancient historical sites, profound cultural significance (thanks to Shakespeare), and a vibrant city atmosphere that is distinct from Milan and the Lombardy region.
Is it easy to take a train from Milan to Verona?
Yes, it is extremely easy. Dozens of direct trains run daily from Milan’s main station (Milano Centrale) to Verona’s main station (Verona Porta Nuova). The journey is comfortable, scenic, and takes as little as 1 hour and 15 minutes on a high-speed train. You can buy tickets easily online through Trenitalia or Italo, or at the station.
TLDR: Your Verona Day Trip Cheat Sheet
In a hurry? Here’s the super-quick version:
- Getting There: Take the high-speed train (~1h 15m) for speed, or the regional train (~2h) for budget. Book in advance.
- Must-Do: Buy the €20 Verona Card online or at the first attraction.
- Top 3 Sights: Verona Arena, Juliet’s House courtyard, and the view from Torre dei Lamberti.
- Food & Drink: Grab a quick lunch, and don’t miss the 6 PM aperitivo.
- Top Tip: Wear very comfortable shoes. You’ll walk a lot!
Ready to Fall in Love with Verona?
A day tour from Milan to Verona is more than just a trip; it’s an unforgettable journey into a city where history, art, and romance intersect on every cobblestoned street. It’s an easy, rewarding, and truly magical escape from the modern pace of Milan. So, book your train ticket, pack your comfy shoes, and get ready to fall in love with the beautiful city of Verona!
Have you been to Verona on a day trip? Share your tips or questions in the comments below!
