Verona is a city of art that absolutely must be discovered. Amid the medieval quarters, Roman remains and Scaliger buildings, there is really a lot to see. If, however, you would also like to discover the surroundings of the city, there are many towns and villages of absolute beauty that you should not miss. Discover the best 10 towns to see near Verona.
Soave
Nestled in the rolling hills of Veneto, Soave enchants visitors with its imposing medieval castle and the walls that embrace the ancient village. The enclosure is surprising because it is so well preserved. Entering through the city gates you will find beautiful squares and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, not to mention several medieval palaces.
Soave is also known for the vineyards surrounding the town, famous for the production of the wine of the same name, recognised internationally for its delicate flavour and fragrance. Don't miss the opportunity to visit some of the wine cellars and book a tasting.
Soave is only 30 minutes by car from Verona along the A4 motorway. Alternatively, there is a direct bus from Verona station.
Lazise
Overlooking the waters of Lake Garda, Lazise is a village that charms with its perfect blend of history and nature. The ancient city walls that embrace the historic centre bear witness to its rich past. Inside you will also find the Church of St Nicholas and the Old Port.
The visit to Lazise should continue to the Scaligero Castle, once a defensive bulwark and now an essential vantage point. No less important is the gastronomic heritage, with lake fish dishes that delight the palate and enrich the dining experience.
Lazise is also only 30 minutes by car from the city centre. You can also get there via several bus lines or by changing at Peschiera del Garda station. So it is the ideal place to see in and around Verona if you have two or three days.
Bardolino
A short distance from Lazise, still on the shores of the lake, is Bardolino. This picturesque town offers a perfect combination of history, culture, food and wine traditions, which come together in a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere. Start by strolling along the lakefront, where you will also find bars and shops. In the centre, a visit to the Church of San Severo is a must.
A visit to Bardolino usually involves tasting the local wines, which are distinguished by their quality. Wineries in the area allow you to taste excellent wines and learn more about this beautiful area of Veneto.
The visit, often proposed in combination with Lazise, is facilitated by the fact that the town is only 39 minutes from the centre of the Scaliger city.
Valeggio sul Mincio
Nestled in the lush Veronese countryside, Valeggio sul Mincio is a destination that should definitely be visited. In the village you will find the Parco Giardino Sigurtà, one of the most beautiful parks in Europe, where you can stroll among floral labyrinths and pools of water.
A little way from the centre you can see Borghetto sul Mincio, included in the list of Italy's most beautiful villages. The medieval centre is embellished by the preserved watermills and the Visconti Bridge. Rising above the city is the Scaliger Castle.
Valeggio sul Mincio is located on the border with Lombardy and is only 30 kilometres from the centre of Verona. You can also get there by a direct bus from the station.
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San Giorgio di Valpolicella
Nestled in the Veronese hills of Valpolicella, where an excellent wine is produced, San Giorgio di Valpolicella is an ancient village that offers enchanting views and an atmosphere of times gone by. Also nicknamed Ingannapoltron, as it was once difficult to reach on foot.
This town boasts a panoramic square, from which you can even see Lake Garda, as well as an ancient parish church and a 12th century cloister. A visit to San Giorgio di Valpolicella also offers the opportunity to explore the historic cellars where local wines can be tasted and the secrets of winemaking discovered.
The best way to get here is by car, as the village is only 25 kilometres from Verona, a total of about 30 minutes.
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Peschiera del Garda
Peschiera del Garda perhaps needs no introduction. The walled city, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, fascinates with its imposing walls that are reflected in the water, offering an incredible spectacle.
The historical centre is rich in ancient curiosities and vestiges of the past. Moreover, in Peschiera del Garda, you can stop at one of several restaurants to taste the cuisine of Lake Garda, perhaps accompanied by a glass of Lugana, the white wine produced nearby.
Peschiera del Garda is a popular destination for the Veronese, as it can be reached in less than15 minutes by train.
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Isola della Scala
Isola della Scala was a transit point between Verona and Mantua. The centrality of the village is demonstrated by the Scaliger Tower that marks the beginning of the centre. In the surrounding area, you will find several noble villas and ancient churches carrying traditional cults.
One of the typical products is the Riso Nano Vialone Veronese IGP, which is celebrated every autumn with the famous Fiera del Riso (Rice Fair), an event that attracts visitors from the surrounding area.
Getting here is very easy: it takes about 30 minutes by car or, alternatively, 15 minutes by train from Verona's central station.
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Malcesine
Back on the shores of Lake Garda, Malcesine is a picturesque village worth seeing. Characterised by narrow alleys and flights of steps, the historical centre is dominated by the presence of the imposing Scaliger Castle, which offers a beautiful view of the crystal-clear waters of the lake.
For nature lovers, Malcesine presents the unique opportunity to board the cable car to the summit of Monte Baldo. The route offers unforgettable views and once at the summit, a spectacular panorama can be admired.
Malcesine is located an hour and twenty minutes from its capital, on the road along Lake Garda. You can also get here by combining bus and train.
San Pietro in Cariano
Also in the heart of Valpolicella is San Pietro in Cariano, a must-see destination for wine and history lovers. This village, nestled in a landscape of hilly vineyards, is famous for its production of fine wines.
Moreover, the Venetian villas, scattered throughout the area, tell the story of a rich and noble past. These include, in particular, Villa Giona and Villa Serego. From a religious point of view, visit the Pieve di San Floriano, a Romanesque church known throughout Valpolicella.
San Pietro in Cariano is only13 kilometres away by car, or by taking a direct bus from the centre of Verona.
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Montagnana
If you are looking for a town to visit within an hour of Verona, Montagnana is the place for you. Famous for its imposing medieval walls, among the best preserved in Europe, this town offers a walk through ancient architecture and an atmosphere of times gone by. The walls embrace the historical centre and invite you to climb the tower for a panoramic view, from which you can admire the beauty of the surrounding countryside.
Among the things to see in Montagnana, start with the Piazza Maggiore, where historic buildings such as Palazzo Sammicheli and the Cathedral dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta, outstanding examples of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, stand. No less important is the Castle of San Zeno. Gastronomy lovers cannot miss out on the famous prosciutto crudo, a recognised PDO product.
Getting here will only take you an hour by car along the SS434 or, alternatively, you can combine bus and train from Verona.
